OMG! I'm the first poster. Good luck with your class. I love the Tacoma/Seattle area - LOVE IT!

What, no sock?

Yay for Suzanne, anyone who can pull a magic trick like that is definitely a heroine. I'm sure your classes will be fine and you'll have a lovely time.

Liza {who's thinking she might just have to steal that ancient greek button~so cool}

My god, I am actually getting nervous about the start of the Olympics!

It's impossible to correctly anticipate weather conditions in the PNW, Stephanie, don't feel bad about the parka!

I wish I was there with all you fabulous knitters!

I am so envious, you are in my home state, looking at the Puget Sound, and while Tacoma is not by best favorite city, it's close enough to my kids to meet them for coffee. I do love Colorado Springs but the Northwest is still home for me. Enjoy the damp, green beauty and have a blast at the retreat. Take a picture of Mount Rainier for us (if you can see it through the rain).

I am so EXCITED! I can't believe that it is almost here. Good luck, Stephanie! Although, I don't think that you will need it.

and your audience is in their seats ready to roll with you; don't worry. all the love, can you feel it?

LOVE the ancient Greek button. Now if I can only figure out how to move it around.
Are we in count down yet? 10, 9, 8.....
Enjoy Tacoma Steph - it looks warm.

Hehe, overkill indeed... I'm in Portland and the sun is streaming in my window right now (okay, okay, so the open window is maybe making it a *little* bit cold, but the sun's out!)

I am sure that you will do just fine. I wish that I could be there.

Stephanie, you're a freeking genious with a personality like a rare and flawless diamond. You sparkle. You'll do great.

Hi, I signed up for the Olympics on the first day but haven't made the list yet! Forget the socks, I'm going with shawls. (Didn't want to nag, but I was getting nervous -- and still have to decide on yarn . . )

Isn't the Yarn Boy with you???

Zee

Ah yes, Tacoma. I live 40 minutes away near Seabeck. Since I've only been knitting for 6 months I didn't think that I would be ready to attend Madrona Fiber Arts and didn't sign up. I wouldn't have even known what I'd be ready to sign up for as my skills have grown in leaps and bounds. Oh well, next year I'll know better.

By the way, we've been having a BEAUTIFUL week of weather here with sunny days all week and temps from 30 at night to 55 during the day. Not that any of the knitters will be outside in the weather!

I actually have butterflies in my stomach, counting down the hours until Cast-On.

You are so fantastic, Nancy Bush is probably a little nervous about being in a classroom with you.
The parka? Don't even think twice about it. You are Canadian-you don't expect to see live, green ferns in the middle of February.
Suzanne, thanks. And the button of Sara's? So cool, but its all Greek to me!

HA! ;-p

Have fun!

Calm down. You know everyone will love you. And no one will point and laugh. They'll laugh, yes, because you are so very funny. But they won't be laughing AT you. oh, and NO more coffee!

Breathe. Everything will be fine. I'm quite sure you didn't gush and that Nancy Bush thinks you're charming and a knitting goddess in your own right. I ordered some yarn from her the other day and she was VERY nice and didn't strike me as the kind of person to think bad thoughts of fellow knitters. Can't help you on the wheel assembly, but it looks right (take that for what it's worth - I know nothing). Most importantly, have FUN!

Hi there. LOVE the Greek button! Speaking of Greek, can we start a new team? Team GREECE? Anyone willing to join? Post a note and maybe we can get Team Greece on the map. (If we're not too late, you know running on Greek time here.) :)

I, too, miss my home state! Gotta tell you Steph, you will not want for coffee or microbrews - Seattle rules in these arenas. Love the site and thanks for the lovely pictures and words.

My husband is from Washington, and loves Tacoma. He asks that you drink a "Snicker Bars" latte for him, as we can't find them here in PA. And if you run into Sally Melville, would you please tell her that I love her? And Cat Bordhi. I'm not familiar with Nancy Bush, so it isn't that I don't love her...I just don't know her. I'm sure I'll be acquainting myself with her soon. You can gush on my behalf...just blame me for it. Really. I can take the heat. LOL Have fun, Stephanie!

Look North! I'm waving madly near the airport you must have come in through! (Not an entertaining post I know, but hey, it's replete with enthusiasm.)

Arghhh! I finally got time to make the swatch for the Olympic sweater and I desperately need to make some color changes. Thank G-d for next day delivery. Do you suppose I could use up 15 skeins in every color of marino from Knitpicks:-D?

You'll have a wonderful time and everyone will love you. What's to be nervous about...

Is it ok to write that I'm not on the list yet. I signed up the first day but wasn't 100% decided on my project. I'm making a fair-isle hat - Ufserud. Can't wait till tomorrow!

One of these days when my boy is older and I'm fairly certain that neither he nor DH will burn down the house when I'm gone, I'll go to one of these retreats. >sigh< How wonderful.
So, how many shawls did you bring?
Have a great time - I'm sure they secretly love it and are amazed when people gush on them, just like you.
I love that Greek button. I'm totally stealing that.

Breathe in, breathe out. Alternate cups of coffee with glasses of wine to get a nice balance!

Being nervous about public speaking does not qualify as "high strung," in my opinion.

I'd appreciate a review of the Joy when you're done with it, if you get a chance with all your Olympian activities. I will be wheel-shopping this spring (because eventually Ms Melanie will want her wheel back) and it's on the short list. I won't be buying for several months, though, so it can wait! I know you're *wicked* busy.

(Cheerleader for Team Boston, can you tell?)

I would LOVE to join in. My nephew came early. Darn kid was due at the END of February, but decided to come on the 7th. So, my procrastination really bit me in the butt this time. Count me in! I will be doing a baby sweater.

Thanks Stephanie!!!

Doing a baby sweater for a baby that came earlier than expected!

Also signed up in the early days and haven't made the list yet! Making Jake from Rowan Junior. Go Team USA Irish Drunken Caffeine Kids Sweater Team!

I'm loving all the Olympic help you're getting. These people ROCK!
I've got my escape planned for tomorrow - I'll be home in time to cast on during the opening ceremonies.
Enjoy the retreat, and just don't lock yourself outside your hotel room, unless you have clothes on.

Stephanie--You'll be just fine...I bet Nancy Bush is in her room hoping that she didn't gush at you!
Why wouldn't you wear a parka? It's February and cold! Besides, in the off chance that you don't actually need to wear it, it makes a dandy extra cushion when needed, or a lap rug if just your feet are chilly or zip the front, tuck in the hood/sleeves and voila: extra yarn storage!

Hey! I used to live in Tacoma. If it's still there, downtown by the Pantages theatre (if that's still there.. hrm) and Tacoma Actor's Guild there's a coffee shop called Grounds for Coffee that has (or used to have?) good coffee and desserts. And live jazz on ocassion. And comfy chairs. Good place for hanging out and knitting.

And down the street there are a whole slew of antique stores if you're into that thing.

And the green growing things stay mostly green and growing all year-round in that part of the world. I always found it refreshing about this time of year, but that was mostly when we lived in Seattle and the trees were just about on the cusp of starting to bloom again.

Have fun! If you get a chance to run up to Seattle, Pike Place Market is a must see. I *so* miss the market.. *sigh*

Got some fab yarn, did the swatch, I'm in! Oh my, how exhilerating, I'll be Dancing Gardner in "Glimmer"!

Dude, what are you doing in Tacoma? I spent every weekend there for two years (which doesn't make it a more interesting place or even a less interesting one, it's just a fact and I'll shut up now okbye).

The Knitting Olympics made the Living section of the Oregonian! (The biggest newspaper in Oregon.) I was at the coffee shop last night with my knitting buddies, and a man walked over and gave us the newspaper section. I then had to admit to my less obsessed friends that I was entered in the selfsame Olympics.

The link for our enjoyment: http://www.oregonlive.com/search/index.ssf?/base/living/1139367355265090.xml?oregonian?lvls&coll=7

As for nervousness, I never do well in front of people UNLESS I've been at least somewhat nervous.

"...I tend towards the "high stung" end of normal human behaviour.."

Well, no wonder you have problems - stay away from those bees, dear! Heh, heh...sorry, couldn't resist.

You'll be happy to know I have (finally) gotten gauge with the yarn for my Olympic sweater (African Domino); I have finished 7 of the 10 hats for Afghans for Afghans I pledged to make before the Olympics, and 2 more almost done; I'm on Team Knittyboard; and I am a complete, exhausted, jittery mess, getting all this stuff ready/organized/finished before the Olympic knitting event. I hope I still like to knit after all this foofah is over.

FYI, Tacoma is one of the coolest places in the USA--on its way to being discovered tho' still a bit shunned by high-falutin Seattle (itself a great city). Your weather looks ideal..enjoy the damp green. It's a great place to knit! And the coffee is divine.....

Hi, I hope I'm not too late? I really like your idea and I will be happy to knit with all the other knitters during the olympic games. I joined the German Team and I hope I can join here too.
Greetings from germany, iris ine
http://www.stricktick.de

I'm so excited about the Knitting Olympics. Although I will not be participating, as a fan, it's going to be awesome. Thank you for coming up with the idea and putting it all together!

Oooh, you're only about two hours away from here... ...so I *KNOW* the wonderful weather you're enjoying. Peek at the water, wouldja? The sun's doing its spectacular WA-sparkliness-with-green-and-gold on it, and the winds are taking turns kissing those of us who put ourselves in its way.

Welcome to WA, Stephanie!

Wait, you mean there's someone else out there who reads ancient Greek? If I knew how to make a button, I'd make an accompanying "Team HELLAS" one.

Those people don't know cold. If you wear your parka when it's 40 degrees f., you'll fit right in. Or at least you would have many years ago.
Do the Glass Museum, okay?

I am so depressed that I missed the deadline for the Knitting Olympics. That is what I get for being a procrastinator! There's always the summer games! But Torino seemed so perfect (Italian heritage).

Hi all- I'm a knitter and a newspaper reporter....writing a story about knitting and definitely interested in the Knitting Olympics. But since we're a local paper, any chance there's an entrant from Andover, Massachusetts?
If so, please contact me asap @ gcuyler@andovertownsman.com or 978/475-7000 x8726. Thanks!

Knitting for the gold you might have already seen this articl but I thought you might like to see this. the Knitting Olympics are famous

Stephanie, I just came back from the dead (OK, the flu) to find out that you are IN MY STATE!! And it's NOT RAINING!!!! (Have somebody local explain to you just how cool this is.) Wish I could meet you, but I'll settle for this... Life Is Good. Have a wonderful time in Tacoma.

Good luck! She doesn't glow? Really?

I made lots of mistakes in her class at Stitches Midwest and she was very nice and didn't hit me or anything, which I was afraid she would.

Besides, at this point aren't you also some kind of Knitting Goddess by general acclamation?

Awww, that's my hometown! :loves: My knitting circle will be up at the festivities (from Olympia, about thirty minutes) Saturday; mayhaps we will cross paths. I'll look for the lady sweating in a parka. :P

I'll just imagine you in company with your fellow goddesses, glowing away... and reading the comments reminded me that I've got the designs set for my project, but not the numbers... I will be crunching numbers tonight... (as well as anything else I can get my hands on. Pregnancy... fun stuff...)

We are having the BEST weather this week... well, for February and considering it rained for 90% of the past two or three months. But yes, it was the GREEN in winter that convinced me to move here. I hope you see some of our daffodils over the weekend, too!

Wait - you're in Washington State and it isn't raining? You shouldn't be nervous about anything, you are obviously a knitting goddess who can control the weather and make it ideal for travel to the LYS for last-minute items (like those of us who have somehow managed to misplace 3 cable needles in the last 10 hours . . . )

And what is the address for the She of the Magically-Appearing Power Cord? Your loyal teams need to send her the 3 prescribed drugs for saving the Olympics!

For those in the Philly area who were worried about knitting time -- oh bliss and joy, we're getting 6-12 inches of snow this weekend. Followed by more possibly on Wednesday, and the following weekend. I love snow. More time to knit!

Hmm, sounds familiar. Those are some of things I was thinking when I met you. It was 'gush gush, blush, grin, try not to fall over while walking, hmm I'm not breathing'. :)

Nancy is very nice, even if you can't see the glow! As far as I know, she doesn't spin on a wheel, only a spindle, so you should be fine with the Joy! Please say hello for me, too, but do not tell her I still haven't completed the Nordic Koefte from her class at Maryland!

Oh I would loooovvvve to retreat! How fun!! Enjoy.

I grew up in Tacoma, where flowers bloom year round, so that fern doesn't surprise me.

I love your idea for the knitting olympics. It's taken me forever to decide what to make, but it's exciting.

I'm beginning to think I'm just a huge loser and everyone's too nice to tell me. I commented way beck when there were only 400 olympic knitters, and didn't make it onto the list. I e-mailed a week or so later, feeling bad for adding more work, but stil, I'm not on the list. Should I take this as a sign that I'm really not supposed to participate in the olympics? I was plannig on knitting cabled things....two if I can swing it. If I'm not too big of a loser to be on that list. ;)

Keep your shoes away from that window. S'all I'm sayin'.

You are so totally going to fit right in with all the other knitting goddesses on Mt. Madrona! The best part is that you will also fit in with all the dazed and awe struck knitters - that's what makes you our favorite heroine - a foot in both worlds.
It is so sunny and gorgeous here in Oregon, but don't despair your parka may yet come in handy.
I am late but would love to do a baby sweater and hat for the knitting Olympics.
Have another cup of coffee - it's Seattle!

I was so nervous when I saw this headline...
thank heaven's it wasn't the Yarn Harlot...

"Olympic team still waiting for lost luggage"

http://feeds.feedburner.com/reuters/oddlyEnoughNews?m=1054

There is no need for a parka in most of the US. We've got this crazy global warming type winter going on or something.

And I think that Nancy Bush loves you, too. But since she's not a mere mortal like the rest of us, she has managed to restrain her gushing.

You will meet Nancy? Nancy, who wrote this estonian mitten book? Ask her how did she find Estonia and estonian folk art :)

ps. greetings from Estonia!

Why on earth are you in Tacoma? Just hold your nose when you go outside...although the stench really isn't that bad anymore.

And yes, the parka is a bit of overkill. We haven't seen snow this winter. (well, MUCH snow. We got a dusting a couple months ago.)

Have fun!

I can't wait to hear about your class with my all time favorite Judith M. And Nancy Bush. That is a classic tag team of spinning and knitting. Now I am gushing.

hope you are having a grand, edifying time now that classes are underway.

Kiri olympians- i made a progress spreadsheet to track my stitches for the 16 days. if you are into this kind of thing, here are links...

open office version:
http://www.knitbuddies.com/meowgirl/2006feb/kiri_progress.sxc
excel version:
http://www.knitbuddies.com/meowgirl/2006feb/kiri_progress.xls

or if you want to take a peek first:
http://www.knitbuddies.com/meowgirl/2006feb/kiri_spreadsheetready.png

I'm ready to knit my Odessa! I have the beads on and I'm ready to go. If I finish that I will try and knit as many other things as possible during the Olumpics. Have a great time there!

Hi,

This is a double check on my entry to the olympics. I wll be doing Aibhllin from Knitty. I saw someone had come to my site two days ago but I see my name isn't entered yet.

Just checking in. Looking forward to the games :)

***CV

I signed up to do the urban necessity mittens from MagKnits, but might switch and do my PNW shawl, I haven't swatched for either, so will go with whichever works out with what I have.
Janet H

Stephanie,

If you need anything while you are in Tacoma let me know my office is at the Univ. of Washington, Tacoma and I am 3 blocks from your hotel!

My work number is 253-692-4528

Alice

Enjoy Tacoma..I used to live near there and really miss the whole area--especially Seattle. I have very fond recollections of the shark exhibit at Point Defiance..a fine place to knit and meditate....

You came at the best time EVER! Clear blue skies, sunshine, and you can point and laugh at us Washingtonians who are wandering around squinting at the big ball of fire burning in the sky, wondering who turned on the great cosmic lights while reaching for the SPF 40Billion. ;D

I wish you and all the other Retreat peeps good times, great coffee (not hard to find here), and lots of laughter.

I'm going to splurge on bottle of something tonight, after having to sell my favorite spinning wheel. I shall toast you all effusively, and probably repeatedly the closer I get to the bottom. *G*

I'm signing up for the Knitolympics - planning on knitting a felted skirt! - It's still rather cold here in Norway...

YOU packed a PARKA? When did I miss this addition? Good lord woman, we have no snow as I told you in the lobby.

I will take Nancy the Goddess of Socks class on Sunday morning. It's better than church! OK so maybe I'll go to the early mass but hey... if I don't I'll just knit one, pray two.

Also, bad shot of Tacoma... you missed Rainier which is really the only decent vista we have.

I gotta get you out of the hotel.

I send you an email--I'm knitting the Bamboo Kimono from Two Sticks & a String using Patons Classic Wool--but totally re-engineered due to totally different gauge--I'm recreating the entrelac yoke & sleeves--recalculating is impossible (for me anyway). This is a challenge--just hope it comes out.

Welcome to Washington State! I'm up north in Bellingham, & wish I were closer (at least today). I hope your visit here is the best. Happy knitting!

Hey! I'm signing up for the Knitolympics, I hope i'm not too late. I'm planning to knit a sveater or a bolero...not sure yet =)

I've started a blog for Team Ireland at http://thewheel.biz/TeamIreland. If anyone wants to join, please send me an email at emma@thewheel.biz and I'll add you as a contributor so you post your progress. Hope to hear from some of you.

Just listening to "Hear and Now" on CBC - and its YOU talking about the Knitting Olympics!

Hey I just heard you on the cbc radio one! Rock on sista!

Steph, welcome back to the PNW! You've got great timing to get here after our 20-25 day spans of constant rain with maybe a day of blue skies inbetween.

Sign me up for the Olympics!!!! My needles are waxed and my fingers have been in traing for 10 years for this awesome opportunity. I plan to knit a pair of slippers or socks. In the spirit of Peace and Excellance, let the games begin!

Just heard you on CBC. So nice to be able to put a voice with the face!
Usually the other way round.
Juat did my swatching and looks like the Musa sweater's a go.

and check out this story from Prtland, OR about the Knitting Olympics! http://www.oregonlive.com/living/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/living/1139367355265090.xml&coll=7

Welcome to Tacoma! I hope that winter parka didn't take up too much yarn room in your suitcase. You managed to hit us during one of those beautiful "sunbreaks" that we so rarely get in February. It most definitely feels like spring out there this week.

Yes! I'm on the list! I made it! Sorry for signing up last minute, thank you so much!

Um, dude? I don't want you to tell Nancy Bush that I love her because I truly feel I can't express that love until I've finished a sock. Which I haven't. But could you do me a big favour and hug Ryan if you see her? She'll understand if you tell her it's from me. I'll explain later.

Good luck with the gushing. I'm not good at not gushing. Not at all.

Hm. I'm starting to think that my original sign-up comment was a little obtuse (now that I go back and check it again, knowing it was on the Original Post and all). So here I will officially say that that original comment was to sign up. And here is the link to my cogitations on the project thus far.

http://crankyisgood.livejournal.com/tag/knitting+olympics

I'm very very sorry for being obtuse. It seems I am really much better at that than I thought.

Due to my technological inability to spell my own name using an actual keyboard, that comment asking you to hug Ryan ended up being from L, rather than Lee Ann. I am very rarely known as L, unless the blog does not remember me, and then I am frequently Anonymous. But that would totally confuse Ryan.

Just heard you on the CBC. Gosh, I hope there aren't going to be any yarn scandals to besmirch OUR Olympics. Maybe k2ing when you find you have too many stitches? Anyway - enjoy the Pacific Coast. Go home to Vancouver Island as often as I can. Green all year round. And the air - it smells like cedar. You can knit outdoors year round.

I started a Flickr Fiber Olympics pool: http://flickr.com/groups/knittingolympics/

I hope to see lots of great pics of projects in progress and LOTS of FOs in 16 days!

I would like to enter the Knitting Olympics. I am going to knit the 'Big Bad Baby Blanket' from Stitch 'N Bitch.
Whew! I hope they let me knit in the kitchen at school. (I'll be knitting for Canada... Charlottetown, PEI).

Is it too late to sign up for the Knitting Olympics? My goal is to knit at least one iPod cozy of my own design. Given that I'm a rank beginner, a mommy of a toddler, and due to deliver #2 any minute, this truly is an Olympic level goal!

Have fun with Nancy Bush, you lucky woman. It's kind of funny to read your reaction to having met her, because it's probably similar to the reaction many of us have had when meeting you. I know I gushed and made a fool of myself when I met you at Lord and Taylor, but I couldn't help myself.

Have a wonderful time! Sounds like great fun.

You do realize that a lot of us look at you with the same level of awe and admiration that you see Nancy Bush with...right?

Bless you, Suzanne, for saving the Knitting Olympics; and bless you, Stephanie, for setting us all upon the path of insanity. :)

Since I am a writer, I have worked up a story pitch for NPR. There was an article in the Oregonian yesterday and I've been thinking how great would it be to have it on NPR. I'm so excited about this thing!

Welcome to Tacoma, the city everyone knows and refuses to admit they've either been to or lived in. Luckily you've arrived just after our record stretch of rain, but don't get used to the sun. It is there just to tease.

And if you get bored late at night, head over to the Swiss Tavern. It is the only place you can find a bar that shares 36 brews and eight pieces of Chihuly glass.

Aww poor parka. Our weather has gotten really nice this week (I'm down in Portland) so you may not need to Parka but enjoy the sun while you are our side of the world! It's been a nice change from the dreary rain the last almost 2 months straight (45 out of 50 days of rain!)

Ooooh, an Ashford Joy wheel. You'll love it! They never back up on you, and they're so easy to tote around - just remember to slide the little lock tube over the brackets and the treadle will stay neatly folded up. Since you're spinning for lace, you might want to make sure the drive band is running from the largest groove on the wheel to the smallest groove on the flyer - higher ratio to spin lace yarn faster. Can't wait to see your post after that class!

I would like to be part of the Knitting Olympics. I will be knitting a child's cardigan with a mosaic patterned front. Hope I can accomplish this at all, let alone by February 26. Thanks for the wonderful concept!!

I feel like I should be shot for this, but...

My name was spelled wrong (probobly my fault, but still...)
Cerridwen
knitting my first pair of socks (yay!!)

http://cerridwenknits.blogspot.com

Spinning and knitting Estonia lace?! I'm taking a knitting Estonian lace class with Nancy Bush at Stitches West in a couple weeks, but adding the spinning would be awesome.

Now to go back to patiently waiting for my name to be added to the list... that is if you got the email I sent a couple days ago... must not worry over silly things like this. I should be worrying about cast on time instead.

ooooh, I grew up in Tacoma. It can be pretty, but I hope you don't catch a whiff of the infamous aroma!

Suddenly all the knitting classicists are just crawling out of the woodworks!

It gave me a bit of a geek rush to see the obscure thing to which I have devoted the past six years on the Harlot site!

Go Team Classics!

Oh dear, I'm not sure if I would gush or stammer if I came face-to-face with Nancy Bush. Are you certain that it was her? I'm positive that she has a golden glow emanating from her. I just got Knitting Vintage Socks in today, which has heightened my obsession even more, I'm afraid.

I'm sure Athena would be very proud.

Stephanie, you are so not what I think of as "high-strung." Come to Lansing Michigan one of these days...I picture you as so easy to sit and have a cup of coffee with. And have a great Olympic kick-off (knit-off?) tomorrow. I'm opting to be a cheerleader, but your brainchild makes me proud to be a knitter.

I hate to be a pain, but my name has not shown up on the knitters list. I did finally decide to make the Sweet Mary Jane Cardigan from KnitPicks.

Hopefully the weather here will stay sunny for your time here in the Northwest, but if it rains you will need the parka! I would probably not be able to even open my mouth if I met Nancy Bush--you're doing really good. I so wish I was at the retreat....oh well, some other time.

I don't necessarily hate to be a pain. :) The Olympics is a BRILLIANT idea, and I thank you.

I am going to finish two UFOs (a pair of boring grey socks for the bf and an Irish Hiking Scarf), AND make a sweater for my son's girlfriend's son. (Since they're having a baby together, I suppose I'm making the sweater for my grandson?)

Nan

I hope someone warned you about the "design feature" of the wheel you borrowed. I bought one for Christmas and every once in a while the bobbin and it's holder comes loose and, well, it attacks you. It was quite a surprise the first time it happened - my first time spinning in public. You can actually hear sort of a wobble before it comes off and I've learned to catch it, or tighten it. I hope you have better luck with it in public than I did.

You'll do fine! I'm sure Nancy is used to people proclaiming their love to her. :D

I love your suitcase packing! I know mine is going to look like that when I go on vacation next month. I'm going on a cruise, so much free time for knitting I can't wait! :D

Not that it's a big deal, but I finally ironed out my challange. 8 baby hats for charity. :D

Good luck to all the knitters out there! I can't wait to start!

Welcome to Tacoma! We're glad to have you.

I have sent a couple of emails and I do not want to be a pest, well I am sure I am being a pest, but I really want to try and knit my first sweater (peace fleece cardigan) during the Olympics...this is such a great thing. I am sure trying to get everyone on the list is grueling work. Thank you and good luck, Lesley

sniff, sniff, I am barely 45 minutes away from Tacoma, but can't make the show.....But next year, I am SO THERE!!! You gotta promise to come back and visit again, too.

I'll be there next Wednesday, though, for the Lenny Kravitz/AEROSMITH concert! Steven Tyler is the second ugliest guy in Rock 'n' Roll (Mick Jagger is #1, no doubt).

I went to college in Tacoma (PLU, GO LUTES!!) But lots have changed since then. There is a really interesting glass museum there. And of course, Stephanie will be there all weekend!

It was nearly 60 earlier this week in Seattle. I doubt you will need that parka at all. I don't think it is supposed to be that warm this weekend, but at least it's not supposed to rain (finally!!) Normal northwest weather has returned!!

Yea, it was really nice out today. I live in the area, and I drove with my windows down listening to Johnny Cash.

Enjoy Tacoma-it's not great, but if you get a chance there are some cool things to see and do downtown.

I would like to sign up.I'm Rose and I am from Virginia Beach, VA. I hope I'm not to late my daughter told me about it. I'll be knitting three pairs of slippers.

I know this is late but I've decided to add to my knitting challenge.

I have changed this: Jo - Texture time Cardi or placket neck pullover
for this: for Jo - Texture time Cardi AND basic cardigan

Thanks! 2pm tomorrow here I come!!! :)

Ya know, a lot of Washingtonians are popping up here. We gotta get together sometime! Fans of the Yarn Harlot Unite!!! We could have coffee, chocolate, wine, and knit, knit, knit! Heck, I will even be knitting at Aerosmith in the T-dome next week! Oh hey, Steph, there is a Krispy Kreme right at the Tacoma Mall. If you need a sugar hit, that is the place to get it! But of course, it is also the land of Starbucks, Tully's, and SBC, so you can load up on almost any corner! My DH and my new game when we travel out of state is to count the number of Starbucks in the area we are visiting. The number of Starbucks in San Francisco jumped incredibly in two years! Now if someone would just open some really good tea shops.......

HI Stephanie

Just want to say how much I enjoy your site and messages! It is so great to sit on the other side of the world and to see and read about your adventures.

One thing I have learnt is how many wonderful talented knitters/ craft people there are there!!

I will have to post about our Creative Fibre festival in April to let you all know what is happening down under.

Do enjoy yourself as I am sure you will! Wish I could be there, will have to make do with your first book which hopefully will arrive soon.

>^..^<

I don't know if anyone's brought this up (I'll admit, I don't read all the posts), but I think it would be cool if you started a Frappr account for the Olympics, so everyone can see where all the other Olympians are from. Just a thought. Tomorrow's the big day! Woo! =)

No worries about making a fool of yourself, Stephanie! You'd have to really work at it to top my grand entrance into class today (grin). Although I didn't introduce myself (contrary to popular belief, I can be shy) it was cool to see you in person. I had no idea we'd be in the same class! You really lucked out in the weather department, too; I hope you have a fun time while you're in town.

You're lucky! We're in between deluges so revel in the sun. We're already getting flowers up and blooming around here. Enjoy the class with the sock goddess extraordinaire! Go Team Wales!

Hey! I'll see you on Saturday!

Hi Stephanie,
I would like to join the Knitting Olympics. I will be attempting my first full Fair Isle project -- a button-top version of the Fair Isle Sampler Hat from Interweave Knits Mag, Winter 2004. I'll be learning the technique as well as how to adapt the pattern to eliminate the stocking cap (too heavy for my head) and make the top a button-top (or something similar). What an adventure -- and what a wonderful idea!
Regards,
Lucy Lomax

Thank you, thank you, thank you for correcting my info on the Knitting Olympics page. I know you have had so much to do...thanks for the attention to detail! Can't wait to get started tomorrow night!

I have knitted off/on for years. (I don't knit much in the summer, Too busy) I know that probably is sacrilidge but... I just want to know if all you knitting fanatics are like quilters!!!! eeeeekkkee. No offense intended. But, you know what I mean. Any way, I'm knitting for the Knitting Olympics a leaf patterned shell. Out of bamboo yarn with bamboo needles. It's green with a little bit of blue variegation. Didn't plan it that way but it all sort of fell together. Must be some symmetry to the whole thing. I hope I finish it in time.

Kim

I have knitted off/on for years. (I don't knit much in the summer, Too busy) I know that probably is sacrilidge but... I just want to know if all you knitting fanatics are like quilters!!!! eeeeekkkee. No offense intended. But, you know what I mean. Any way, I'm knitting for the Knitting Olympics a leaf patterned shell. Out of bamboo yarn with bamboo needles. It's green with a little bit of blue variegation. Didn't plan it that way but it all sort of fell together. Must be some symmetry to the whole thing. I hope it gets finished in time. buena suerta to all.

Kim

Have fun in Tacoma, we'll be waiting for you.

I need to update my knitting goal for the KO. I have had a minor flair up of tendonititis, and there is no way on this earth that I will be able to knit a sweater in 2 weeks. I am downgrading to hat of my own design. And I have started a blog to document my progress (or lack thereof).

Not to add any more work, but I really think you need an official statistician of the knitting Olympics. Then you can have more publicity at the end with all the stats - number of objects completed, number of countries represented, pounds of chocolate consumed, etc. I would love to see the end result. Betsy in Sacramento

This is amazing!
* I discovered blogging last month and started my own
* I discovered knitblogs last week and have been avidly reading through as many as possible
* I discovered the "Knitting Olympics" today; and because I live in Australia I will have time to dash down to the local yarn store tomorrow morning and get myself set up and ready to go for the opening ceremony.
BUT, I'm hopeless at IT and dont know how to get the button onto my own blog at redumbrella80.blogspot.com PLEASE can someone let me know how email: fergusson@ozemail.com.au I shall register my intended knit in the oz morning, sorry to take up so much space, Good luck this weekend
ferg

Look ma! No clouds in Tacoma.

Your picture is suspect. No clouds. No rain. Definitely no need for a parka unless they are at day 2 of a SEVERE long winter weather storm warning.

Enjoy the new digs for the yarn fest!

so, it's too late to sign up for the Olympics? I JUST found out about it!!! Sad! That'll teach me to come on here regularly. I'm going to cast on my Faroese inspired fair isle wrist warmers, anyway!

Crossing my fingers that I can leave work early enough tomorrow to make the drive up from Portland to see you tomorrow night! And, I'm in Nancy's class for Saturday. Can't wait! So glad you've come out our way again.

TACOMA?! Why didn't I hear of this until now? Am I really that out of touch? (Apparently so.)

I just emailed my Knitting Sensei to alert her to the news. We are SO going to attack that free Yarn and Fiber Market thing on Saturday! (http://madronafiberarts.com/vendors.html)

You guys convinced me, I'll try a project for the Knitting Olympics. I shall knit legwarmers in mill end wool. This'll be the fourth thing I've knitted ever. Good luck everyone!

You guys convinced me, I'll try a project for the Knitting Olympics. I shall knit legwarmers in mill end wool. This'll be the fourth thing I've knitted ever. Good luck everyone!

I live 10 minutes from Tacoma, across the lovely Tacoma Narrows Bridge, in Gig Harbor. I truly LOVE the City of Tacoma. It's retained its character when other cities have knocked it all down for high rise towers. I hope you have a wonderful time up this way! (I'm high strung as well, so I know of what you were writing). Enjoy yourself and Tacoma! Hope you have a chance to look around the area a bit.. the watefront is gorgeous.. as is Gig Harbor! We have an amazing LYS in Gig Harbor by the watefront, The Yarn Garden, worth a trip over the bridge if possible. Enjoy your time here!

Hi I am making the Simple Filigree Hand Warmers
from the EarthFaire web site. No fair ending at midnight and telling at 11. Seriously, I just got in and saw that , so If I cannot participate, I understand and I will race myself, thanks for the great fun and Idea.I hope the yarn gets here in time
Thanks for the encouragement
Tysa

Hi!

Is it to late to join the knitting olympics? If not I would like to join you! I am on the Norwegian team ;) I am going to knit jaywalker socks (http://magknits.com/Sept05/patterns/jaywalker.htm). This is a challenge for me, because I'm not used to this kind of pattern, an I have only knitted one pair of socks before!

Elin

oh no! i just read your earlier posting and i think i'm too late to join the olympics! i haven't knitted since i was a kid,got a copy of SNB nation for christmas and was "thinking about it". until i read your blog on the 2nd, bit the bullet and bought the yarn, needles, got some books out of the library and did my first gauge swatch!!! hope i'm still eligible. i am knitting the steering wheel cover that's in the book. what the hell...eligibility be damned! Good luck to all teams - it's hot knitting in summer in Australia!

I would love to join the knitting olympics!
I intend to knit "Shedir"
http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall04/knittyF04surp.pdf

Thanks a lot...and happy kntting to all :)
Love
Sarah xXx

We all love Nancy Bush. I have never, ever looked at a Nancy Bush design and thought, "What was she THINKING??" She has TASTE.

Have a great time and say hi to all my FT friends out there.

I decided to knit Cozy from Knitty Magazine. Thanks for your great work with the list of Members.
Greetings Iris ine

I *so* know what you mean about gushing embarassingly in the presence of Idols. I have met a couple of my Idols, and to my chagrin have behaved in a shockingly groupie-ish fashion.

I suspect that Famous People are sort of used to it. One time Vincent Price was looking at the books on a table outside a bookstore, right in my town, right on my street. I'm afraid that I stared at him brainlessly. The "out of context" thing..... He was extremely gracious -- smiled and said "hello"........... Meanwhile I was feeling like a Major Rube. I didn't say anything stupid, that time, but did when overwhelmed by my spinning and quilting Idols.....

Sigh. You can't take me anywhere.......

-- Vicki, who has been practicing toe-up toes for this afternoon's Olympic Cast-on!

All you knitters who were too late for the deadline - knit anyway!! Be part of the "bandit" group, or the non-official Knitting Olympics. KNIT ON!!

You ask, librarians deliver. The Knitting Olympics Frappr: http://www.frappr.com/knittingolympics/

...and we're off! You mentioned that everyone could start at 2PM at their own time zone, so let's get flying.. all the asians have a clear head start! (Goo europe, goo)

Count me in on the Olympics! I will be making the Lady Eleanor Stole from Scarf Style. I'm using Lorna's Laces worsted in the Irving Park colorway. Let the games begin!

Have a great time at the retreat! Nancy Bush is enough to leave anyone either tongue-tied or babbling.

Olympic update--the person I was designing a sweater for is going to be unavailable for measurements and try-ons during much of the Olympics, so I'm going to switch from the self-designed aran to Rogue, which I promised nearly a year ago to another friend. I'm ready to cast on at 2:00--the very end of my lunch break.

We're almost off. Happy knitting to you all!

I took a class last year taught by Nancy Bush and with Judith as a fellow student. The combination is amazing.

I would love to join the knitting Olympics. I am new to the knitting blog-thing. How to I get started? I'd like to knit a cable knit hat . I think thats enough of a challenge for 16 days.
Thanks
Kelly

I want to join the Knitting Olympics! I've trained hard and I'm "in the zone".

Project: Rolled Brim Baby Hat w/ Topknot

Thx!

I want to join the Knitting Olympics! I've trained hard and I'm "in the zone".

Project: Rolled Brim Baby Hat w/ Topknot

Thx!

Have just cast-on, but not amidst cheers, rather like groans of dismay from the children.

I LOVE SEATTLE.

I was in Tacoma/Seattle two years ago this week, and the middle of February it was 55 degrees during the day. Go figure.
It was 19 degrees here in DE that year and we were under 6" of snow.
But seattle was so green and relatively warm it was nice.
Dont forget to go to the Seattle Fish Market and see the fish throwers and the golden pig.
hugs

Hi. I'd like to join the Knitting Olympics. I'm a pretty new knitter. I've made a vest and a poncho for my youngest daughter. The poncho turned out well so I'm inspired to make one for my oldest daughter only with a more complicated stitch ~ diagonal rib. I'm all warmed up and ready to go!

Phyllis

It looks like I'm too late to join the knitting olympics, but I'm going to do an unofficial knitting marathon on my own. I'm going to knit 2 two-color hats (one for my fiance, another for my niece) and a felted Lucy bag in sportweight. The hats I know I can finish in 16 days (with a lot of work) but the bag is quite a stretch. I had no idea the knitting community was so big and so cool! Good luck to all knitters, Olympians and sportsknitters alike.

So, this being my first-ever comment, am I allowed to gush over how darn funny Stepanie is, and how she deserves every nice thing that comes her way, including Yarn Boys?? I'm not really entered, I don't think, but if I write it down here, then I still have to do it, right? I didn't get to read anything for the last few days, so when I emailed Stephanie I was past the deadline, and I said I was going to flip a coin between the Clapotis and the Eris Cardigan. BUT, I made the mistake of printing the Sunrise Circle Jacket, and laying it on the bed(or otherwise known as prison)and when my DH piled the few bedroom stash containers on there, the Tahki Chelsea Silk saw the pattern and started whining, continuosly. I can still hear it from out here in the other room. It's pleading with me, saying it wants to be that jacket. I can't convince it that I've been saving it for something, I don't know what, just something, for six or seven six years at least. I tried to explain that I hadn't practised with it, it hadn't trained with me, but it just won't be quiet. So, I'm going to cave, I can't take it. Even all my grown-up kids know that whining works. (Okay, okay, here, just shut-up, please) No coin tossing, the Clappy and the Eris don't get to compete, it's going to be the Chelsea Silk, and the Sunrise Circle. Wish me luck, I haven't even swatched yet. What is the actual Eastern Time Zone torch lighting, does anyone know? Good luck to everyone, we'll probably win more gold than all the teams combined.

Hello Stephanie!

Welcome back to the States! I wanted to wish you good luck today for the first day of the Knitting Olympics! I'm working on your Tiptoe Socks pattern from Knitty and have received a ton of compliments on them, from both knitters and nonknitters. Thanks for sharing the pattern with us.

Suzie

I can't believe you got this all set up with so many participants. You rock!

My name is on the participant list (Angela-Danica scarf) but not a link to my site. I don't know if it's too late to fix it, but my blog is at http://craftychick5678.blogspot.com

Thanks!

Welcome to Tacoma. I'm excited to think that at this moment you are probably directly across the street from me! ....see that square block of a building covered in goldish reflective glass? That's where I work :-)

I'm not going to be able to come tonight, but I'm hoping to get over there Saturday.....actually I might pop into the yarn marketplace today during lunch.

You picked a great time to visit - we haven't had rain this week and sky is clear. I even noticed my daffodils are blooming in the yard. And don't listen to anyone who tells you about the "Tacoma Aroma". It's an old problem from a paper mill that was taken care of many years ago, but the Seattle people like to still make fun....to make themselves feel superior, I suppose. I've lived in Tacoma all my life and I love it here.

My new Ashford Joy is on it's way--- Harlot, I have to know what you think of it.... I may need a special ed class for spinning--- but am giving it a shot.....;)

This is my second wheel... Traveller not working for me... or I'm not working for it.... ;)

Stephanie, as far as I'm concerned the closest any place on this earth gets to Heaven is the rainforest on the Olympic peninsula in the early spring, when the furns are unfurling their perfectly formed, curly little new fronds. Thanks for the reminiscence.

Ok it's 1:56- I'm in on the knitting olympics. My project is the Unique Rib Bobble Rib Flower Pullover from Knitting Over the Edge by Nicky Epstein. But I'm changing the pattern- as I do every pattern- to a toddler vest (I hate the commitment of 2 sleeves!). Here goes!

True to my word in an earlier comment, I have started a blog. So, Steph, if you or any of your team have time, would you add it to my Olympics entry? I'm Lisa-Inkyfingers, and my blog is http://iknititink.blogspot.com. Thanks, and enjoy the retreat!

I can't believe I am closer to you than I have ever been (granted it is still 2 hours), and I had no idea. Seriously. I think I'm a slacker.

Hope you enjoy this lovely Washington heat wave ... Break out the sweaters and re-pack the parkas!

I'm a bit late on this, and you'll probably never see it, but heh, you were in TACOMA. That's my birthplace and hometown, and we all call it 'Tacompton'. Hee. Hope you weren't too scared or anything. They have done a LOT to revitlaize downtown, and I doubt you ever made it out of downtown. So, yeah. Come visit again! We can show you not-so-ghetto parts of the city. :D