I am so very proud of you.

I've been reading and never posting for years. I'm posting the first time today to say- Good for you.

I am so sorry that someone felt the need to be so hurtful. I live in the US and believe you to be sensible, wonderful, funny, and a fabulous parent. Please take care.

Sarah

I'm embarrassed for her.

You're doing the right thing.

I'm an American Christian, and pretty conservative, actually, and she does not represent me in any way. I'm so sorry that you have to deal with this. It's not right. She's not right, about anything, and especially about your parenting (how low!).

We won't feed the energy creature. So glad that you're not giving her a lot of space in your mind or your heart.

Standing right behind you, Steph, shining the light.

I'm so sorry to hear about this situation. I hope it somehow she'll stop... I love your blogs and your books and your knitting-- you're great!!!! I'll be sending positive thoughts from San Francisco.

I'll show my support by learning all the words to your national anthem--at the moment I've got only "Oh, Canada; my home and native land!"

I'm an American, btw, and I'm glad you love your country b/c I love mine too. I guess we all have our strange citizens.

I'm sorry you've been subjected to this. Your blog is lots of fun for me. I hope it continues to be for you too.

Sorry to hear of the problems you've been experiencing. I always look to see if you've posted and enjoy your posts. I've never felt you have been anything but honest and never felt you insulted Americans. Keep up the good fight.

Adore you Stephanie. Behind you 1000%.

Lots of beer and more than a few hugs to you Stephanie. As someone once said "Don't let the bastards get you down!" Much love from North Carolina.

Never posted here until now. I've got to say that as an American, a Christian and someone just doing their darn best to be a decent human being, I'm beyond insulted at this person's behavior. I can only imagine how horrendous you and your family must feel. Here's hoping for a peaceful resolution all around.

I'm just gobsmacked! I love your blog, and your books, because you are a funny and gifted writer. I was so afraid, as I was reading this entry, that you were going to announce the end of the blog. Thanks for sharing the background to this situation. Lots of light and love to you. Now I'm going to go and knit something pretty in your honour.

Full steam ahead. She does not speak for Americans. Most of us can think for ourselves and I, for one, thoroughly enjoy the blog and books.

Do not let the turkeys get you down.

Good for you, Stephanie. I'm behind you 10000% percent, and I, too, am sorry you've been subjected to this.

Hey, You are my hero in oh so many ways. This is my first post though I've been reading your blog for a couple of years. I'm sending you and your family positive thoughts from VA.

There's just no reasoning with crazy. I'm so very sorry.

So sorry you are experiencing this. As an American and a Christian, I have never felt at all insulted by anything in your blog. I also want you to know that I appreciate your Canada Day posts. Even though I have lived my whole life in the Northeast, I remain woefully ignorant about our neighbor to the North. Your blog has served to educate me on several occasions. Lastly, as the mother of an 18 year old, there have been many times that I have needed your posts on the joys and travails of these turbulent years. Thank you for persevering and for allowing us these small glimpses into your life.

I'd like to apologize for the rude behavior of an American. I don't always agree with your opinions, but I respect your right to have them. I love your blog and your books, and I hope you continue to write. Carry on!

WOW...obviously she is not mentally well. I think you are doing the right thing in taking the high road and ignoring (as best you can) her. Perhaps if you cease all contact with her (and delete her comments without comment), she will 'go away'. I'm married to an American, and I think I can safely say that she doesn't represent ANY American I have ever met. I'm sure that "The Blog" will keep our eyes out for her malicious comments, and let you know if we see them--and avoid the temptation of engaging her. Keep your chin up, and know that us knitters are here for you!

I know it's hard, but for every person like this, remember that there are thousands who admire and respect you.
I too have never posted before, but I had to do it this time.

So sorry you had to go through that. Your thoughtfulness, compassion, and humor are always appreciated. Best wishes-- from the US!

I have always admired (from a distance) your immense good sense, and I see it is helping you now. You are handling this awful scenario very well.

Hey Steph - totally speechless here; I'm continually amazed and distressed about the way some people behave. I love your work and hope you keep doing it!

this is ugly just ugly

I really can't think of a thing to say but, Wow! There are some very strange people in this world. Keep yourself on the high road and you will be fine, but I'm sure you already know that to be true.

Thanks for shining your light & keeping this blog, Stephanie. Hopefully this all passes soon. All the best to you!

(((((((Stephanie)))))) Sending you prayers.

Just what you need with all the sock summit stuff! I read your blog because you so often make my day, crazy job, crazy life and you make me laugh. Somehow I don't think that is wrong.

long time reader, first time commenter. I've always been so inspired by your attitude and approach to dealing with issues and it makes me want to cry that someone has no respect or decency for another human being. Sending good thoughts, knitterly and otherwise from PA

Well, I'm an American and I do NOT feel the way this person does - at all.

Wow, I am amazed, for all the fun and good there is on the internet, there is a lot of, well stuff one would prefer to avoid. I for one do enjoy your humour and attitude. Take care.

I admire you for taking the high road in this awful situation.

And don't worry about her opinion of your -- wait! Is this the 'grave spiritual danger' commenter? Gotcha covered there, don't worry about that part.

If anything else should pop through the filter into the comments, I solemnly swear NOT to react.

Now go: kiss Joe/hug the girls/do some knitting/dance/have a beer/spin/make that yummy pasta with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes.

I am with you too.

It is scary sometimes how people act.

You are a very brave woman and I am honored that you are my friend. So proud.

Steph, I've been reading you for years now. I've seen you read from your books, I don't know, 5 or 6 times. I remember when you were nervous giving one of your first readings at the Sheep Shack in Massachusetts. I've met you here and there, beyond the book readings.

And yeah, I admire your knitting and spinning, and especially your extraordinary productiveness. I admire your writings a lot; they speak to and from the heart. But I admire most your character. It has to be difficult being a very public person to a horde of what are admittedly rather, ummm, obsessive people, shall we say (and I mean obsessive in the best, yarn-loving sort of way). You've been handling all of this Harlot hoopla rather well, as far as I'm concerned, and I'm sorry you're having to deal with this sort of unwanted attention. I'm on your side in this, and I suspect 99.9% of your readers are, too.

Go have a beer. Knit something. Ignore her. I'm planning to.

I'm so sorry to hear that someone (from my country) would be so awful to you. I'm ashamed for her. Thank you for sharing so we can all remember to respect others, even when they have a different opinion than our own.
Life should be more about how we treat others & about making an effort to lift one another up. Thank you for being such a good example.

I've been reading for years and rarely post but I just have to say, don't let the bastards get you down. I'm in awe of people who have nothing better to do then harrass and hate on others. Good for you for only being a positive light and best wishes that she goes away into her little hole and leaves you alone.

I for one don't think you will ever run out of witty things to write about knitting until you can no longer knit. I have had the pleasure of seeing you in person twice so far and your way of conducting yourself really makes us feel you are one of us...no diva but a regular person who happens to write books and blogs and is FUNNY. I love the parenting comments...been there done that but with three boys...the last two identical twins. I happen to think the post about getting the truck stuck was one of the FUNNIEST posts I have read. It is unfortunate that there are people in this world who have to put down others to make themselves feel better. Hang in there and keep us laughing...and learning

Personally - I didn't think knitters HAD boundaries...Thought we were just one big happy group. Canadian/American /English/Irish/etc...doesn't matter...as long as we're knitting. You're going to be fine.

Steph, like someone above, I've been reading and not commenting for years. Please know that you are doing the right thing. I've been saying at school what you said the other day "you get more of what you pay attention to". If everyone manages to not focus on this person, and to shine light instead, eventually she will go away.

Please, please know that not everyone feels this way. I look forward to your blog every day, wonder what you are all up to, and thank you in my head for sharing your incredible family and knitting experiences with all of us. It's a brave thing, and I've learned a lot from you (and not just about knitting, either).

Thanks.

Stay safe.

this woman obviously has mental health issues. hang in there. feel your feet on the earth and don't forget to breath. keep that beautiful bright light of yours shining. i love you yarn harlot!!

I have never posted, either, although I have been reading for quite a while. Your humor and down-to-earth stories have kept me amused during a difficult physical time. I've thought about thanking you and this seems to be an appropriate time. Remember all the good you have done and don't let the negative invade your mind or heart. By the way, I'm American and always thought of Canadians as good friends.

Steph, don't listen to the hurtful comments. You're a very good and funny writer, and certainly seem to be a good and generous mother.

I'm sending warm, Texas-sized e-hugs from an American Christian, and I hope that your unkind correspondent learns one day how un-American and un-Christian her actions are.

You can't reason with anyone who is as mentally ill as this person. You have done all you could do. I hope you can remember that many thousands of others, knitters and non-knitters alike, appreciate you, your humor, your thought-provoking essays, and what you have done and continue to do for knitting.

Knit on!

Our dearest Harlot,
I am shocked and mortified that anyone could be like that. I love your Canadian pride and see you as pro-human, not anti- anything. I am concerned however with this person's venom and think you should look into contacting the police. These are threats and should be taken as such. How can someone with that attitude call themselves Christian? I love reading every word you write. You continue to shine your light and we'll be standing by with extra love and batteries. I am writing from Oregon.

I'm sorry that you have to see that there are Americans who never mature past middle school. I guess it doesn't occur to some people to just stop looking if you don't like what you see. I hope you continue to have the strength to put yourself out there, you are an intelligent, sensitive, funny woman who often serves as a high point of my day.

You are my hero for many reasons. I'll just add "class," "tolerance" and "grace under pressure" to the list now. Well done.

Wow, Please keep safe. We know the world is not in a good place right now. People, People love one and other. We are all here for such a short time. Love your blog. I look daily for you to lighten my life with fiber. Thank you for being there for all of us.

I'm sorry that you are having to deal with an irrational and mentally ill person. As a very conservative American Christian, I'll pray for her. I find that this usually makes this sort of person very angry because it highlights the discrepancies between their state beliefs and their actual behavior.

Stephanie, what a kind and wise way to deal with a situation that has become so painfully bizarre. This person isn't well.
May you be perfectly surrounded with light and love, and may everything that comes toward you be used for good.
Amen.

I'm so deeply sorry that you have had to struggle with this person for so long. It's shameful to know that she is perpetuating the stereotype that I think most Americans seriously wish to avoid, ignorance and an uncaring attitude towards other countries.

I rarely post a comment to your blog, but I truly felt this warranted it.

So this is me, standing behind you, for you, adding another light to shine over all the evil.

Please don't let her discourage you, you're an amazing person, you've made me laugh and cry, and enjoy every minute of it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. And for whatever it's worth, I'm proud of you.

Hey,
I'm sorry that you have to put up with this person, but I'm also very impressed that you're able to handle it in such a mature way...not alot of ppl can do that...as we can see with this woman... Can't you get the authorities involved? She's obviously harassing you.

I barely every post, but as an American (although I am quite left) I am sorely ashamed of people like this. I am a huge fan of yours and I think you are amazing and it makes me real real sad to think there are people out there so sad they must lash out at others on the internet.

Please please keep doing what you're doing.

Just a big hi from another crazy American who for some reason loves you.

That sucks hard. A great book to learn how to deal with people like that is "The Gift of Fear
by Gavin De Beker

obviously she doesn't speak for all americans!

I have to say, as both an American and a Christian, I want to find this woman and haul her off to the psych ward where she belongs. Don't let her get to you, ma'am, and bonus points to you for keeping your chin up about this. No one needs that kind of vitriol in their life, and here's to eradicating this particular form of it from the Internet for good.

By the way, I hope you don't mind, but I'll be praying she cuts it out. I can only imagine what kind of response she might give you after this post, so I'll bet you'll need all the backup you can get. :)

Steph, Another long time reader here that has never posted. I look forward to your blog. It makes my day better when I see something from you. You rarely fail to bring a smile to my face. I am an American and a Christian and think you are wonderful. Don't let one rotten apple spoil who you are and what you do. Good for you for standing up to this person. Stay strong.

I love your posts about Canada, I will continue to buy your books and follow your blog. I admire your parenting, your social conscious, your ethics and your values.

Don't you worry, one rotten apple will not spoil the barrel that is the fun group of commenters and readers here. Huzzah to Stephanie!

I'm an American, for the record.

I look forward to this blog, and love reading it. I am sorry that this mentally ill person is harassing you, Stephanie, because this is such a light and friendly place for us knitters. I learn a lot from you. This troubled person is not a representative of anyone but herself. I am American, and I love you and your blog. Do look into police action, this person needs intervention.

That is truly frightening. As an American, I am saddened, but unfortunately not surprised, that one of my compatriots could feel that way, let alone think that continuing in writing such comments, blog entries, and emails is remotely acceptable behaviour, even if she should, inexplicably, disagree with you.

Sooo Sorry! You are awesome!!!

Sooo Sorry! You are awesome!!!

This person (and I use that term very loosely) obviously has mental health issues and certainly does not speak for any American. It's nutcases like this that hide behind religion and feel free to degrade anyone who doesn't think like they do. It is very hard to pray for someone we don't like, but perhaps this person needs it most of all.

I lurk on blogs and boards all over the web and rarely post anything anywhere (because I'd rather be knitting!) but I am so stunned that technology has brought us to this ugly moment that I am compelled to comment. I check your blog everyday and love the humor, the projects I only dream of tackling, and the mingling of my favorite art/craft with life's joys and challenges. I admire your knitting skills tremendously, but after reading your post today I most admire your integrity and bravery. Best Wishes from Sacramento, CA.

It is inherently brave of you to share this with us.
I respect you even more than I did before, and that was considerable.
For every person out there who may disagree or be indifferent to something you say, there are thousands of us who value you; your humor, your caring, and yes, your bravery to share small parts of your life, good or abysmal, with your readers.
Rock on Harlot.
I'll keep reading.

As a Christian (Catholic, though, and her type of "Christian" doesnt ususally include Catholics as Christians), American, southern woman (making me a proud owner of a Pussy, by the way!), I am so incredibly sorry you are dealing with this and tremendously ashamed that there are Americans out there like this.

I will keep you in my prayers as you deal with the stress of this harrassment, and will keep reading and enjoying your work.

Be safe and keep doing what you love, and those of worth will continue to enjoy watching and learning from you.

As an American Indian atheist I stand proudly behind you a million percent. This chick needs some prozac and wheel of cheese to go with her whine. Love and hugs to you, your family and Canadians everywhere! :-)

Hi Steph,

I'm sorry this is happening to you. It happened to me a couple of years ago, and I believe it really is evidence of mental illness. My blog abuser eventually quit when I continually ignored her. It wasn't fun for her when no one responded to her.

Hang in there.

Way to go, Lady! Thank you for sharing this with us, and I sincerely hope for your sake it stops! I can't adequately express how utterly charming I think you are; a class act for sure. I'm dismayed by people who think the internet grants a free license to harangue and slander. Sending you a nice, big, warm gold bubble for a hug. Take care and stay safe.

I am a long time reader of your blog but have never posted a comment. I assure you true Americans do not feel this way. I am so sorry you and your family are dealing with this. Hang in there, you are doing the right thing.

As an American, as usual, I am deeply embarrassed by some of the actions of my fellow citizens. I won't say "I'm sorry" because that's what women do instead of expecting people to own their own behavior. As an anarchist, let her posts show and let people respond to them as they will, given your clear guidance. As a (bad) Buddhist, I'll send out what little compassion I can muster for such an unhappy and sad person. Peace to you all.

Good for you for taking the high road and not getting in a mudfest. People seem to forget that when you throw mud, a lot of it gets on themself.

Easier to give support when the story comes from both sides and it sounds like many have had access to her side of it.

Stand strong, tall, and with head held high with the support of your many friends that post and those that don't.

Dear One,
May the Blessings of all that is good and right in this universe be with you and your family and your friends. Your way of looking at the world has been a blessing to me in more ways than I can express. Prayers for your safety are on my heart - Be strong, be safe and be well.

I am glad that you blocked her. I am sorry that she has been so awful to you. Please keep writing the blog it makes my day better every time that i read it.

You're so right--when someone is so beyond the realm of normalcy, anything they say is really a reflection of them, not anything about you.
Why does someone assume that pro-Canada mean anti-America? You mention all the time you love the States, I can't recall a single negative anti-American sentiment. Just because you love your country doesn't mean you hate all others.
Thanks for sharing, and remember, what you focus on, expands. Let her anger bubble expand while your serenity prevails :)

Holy Cow!! Sounds like a 'what's the frequency, Kenneth' type life. It's all very scary but you have handled it well. We would expect nothing less. We support you all the way!!

I read religiously, and rarely comment. But this motivated me. Good for you and hang in there!!

Stephanie, I'm so sorry you are being troubled by this woman's disturbing comments and emails. More power to you for keeping it clean and not stooping to her level. This American (hell, this New Yorker) applauds you. Stay strong.

One more light shining from the US...I'm sorry you're being harassed like this! This woman does NOT speak for all Americans. Being pro-Canadian does not make you anti-American, or anything else, just like being pro-American doesn't make you anti-Canadian.
Keep your chin up, Steph...you're handling this better than I (and I daresay, many of us!) ever could.

Wow. That's all I can even think to say. Lots of crazies in this world and I'm so sorry this one is picking on you.

She certainly doesn't speak for all Americans, or even a few for that matter.

We still love you down here! Good for you for standing up to her! I'm proud of you!

Since when have you ever been anti-American?!?!?!

I think she just has too much time on her hands. As a previous poster said, make sure you keep you and yours safe.

Can you/we somehow involve the police in whatever jurisdiction she lives in?

janet

As a proud American, I have to say that people like that give American's and America a terrible name. I am so sorry you are having to deal with this at all. I do hope they realize that karma's a bitch. Hugs Stephanie.

Dear Dear Dear Stephanie,
I am an American and I read your blog everyday. I have never found anything objectionable. If I had, I would have stopped reading. You are clearly dealing with an insane person. Is there such a thing as a blog police or something like that? Threats? No way. If I were you I would just quit reading anything she sends. As far as the nasty things she is saying about you....the people who know you and care about you won't believe all that nasty stuff and they are the people who matter. I have never met you but my daughter has. When you were in Denver about a year ago, my daughter came to the Highlands Ranch Tattered Cover to have one of your books signed for me to give to my cousin as a gift. My daughter doesn't knit but I do and she wore almost every knitted item that she owned that was knit by my cousin or myself. You were very nice to her and she was so impressed by your personality and graciousness. My daughter had a blast visiting with the wonderful knitters. Everyone she sat next to commented on the items that she was wearing. I sent your signed book to my cousin. She called and thanked me. The next day I got a call from her and she said......OH MY GOSH.....THIS IS SIGNED BY SP MCPHEE!!!!....OH MY GOSH....I AM SO EXCITED....STEPHANIE TOUCHED THIS BOOK..... There you go Stephanie, we think you are great and awesome and fabulous and thank you so much for putting yourself out there and thank you for everything that you do for us all. Good luck with the Summit. I will be anxious to hear how things go. Take care. Love, Birdgirl

Another lurker coming out to show support. Sending you (hugs) and hopes for peace from North Carolina. Some people it seems have no life.

I have to say, this is one of the very few times when I can honestly say I'm ashamed to be an American, if being American means that I would in any way be associated with this sort of person or behavior.

You are a lovely person, and a better person then I would be if I were in your situation. And if your posts about Canada, on Canada Day, are "anti-american" and insulting, then count me in as "anti-american" as well.

As an American Catholic (Christian), I have to say, God Bless Canada, and God Bless You and Your loved ones!

As a Christian with U.S. citizenship, I just want to tell you that this is entirely too embarrassing to read.

But thank you for being intelligent enough to know that we aren't all like this.

And, FWIW, I will ALWAYS love you and your work.

This person is either on drugs or insane. You should get a harassment or no contact order from a court where this person lives. People like this are embarrassing to most Americans.

Sue

In america, it is illegal to harass someone via the internet -especially- anonymously and if you have proof she attempted that I would speak to a law official because this woman is obviously insane.

I have read you for years, I live in texas and I adore you. You are the darling of the knitting world and in fact you were my gateway into it. I was knitting scarves and attempting to enjoy it on acrylics and horrible circs.

You encouraged me to try socks, to make blankets, to do lace, to -STEP OUT-..and to give myself -good- yarn and good needles and -enjoy- my knitting. Without you I wouldn't know of Nancy Bush or Barbara Walker or Cat B. I wouldn't know about Latvian mittens or knitters without borders or blue moon fiber arts. I wouldn't have just dropped another 300 dollars on an indie dyer just yesterday that -you- helped promote with Dye for Glory. I wouldn't be referring to you as the Julia Child of knitting. Or so excited that when you come to my area every friend whether they knit or not knows it.

One of the best things that happened to me this year was being on your blog for bringing you dinner. You are a kind woman and you are an example for how a grown up should act. Believe me I take that example as well because the base of my nature is to be not as kind and generous and honorable as your example.

This woman is..crazy. And she's wrong. You are not anti-american, You are not anti- christian and you are not loosing any fan base. Look at freaking Sock summit! 30,000 People!! in the knitting world!? Darlin I assure that there are -comic- and scifi conventions that don't even get that amount of interest.

You just ignore her. I know easier said than done. But You -are- the Julia Childs of the knitting world. Look at what you have accomplished with Knitters without borders, your books, the knitting olympics, all the ways that you've changed people's lives.

Just with two sticks some string and a computer.

I am so sorry that she has done this. I am so sorry that the insane parts of my country are spilling into here.

Alright enough rambling. Stay safe and strong.

*sends big self-esteem beams*
You shouldn't feel lower, you should feel better because you've dealt with this with maturity and grace whereas she's acted like an angst-ridden child.

Dearest Yarn Harolt, you really can't take any of this personally. Her rantings say plenty about her miserable life, but nothing about you. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that someone like this only has as much control over you as you give her. Block her from every email account you have and keep on trucking. I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoy your blog--and I'm a very mediocre knitter. It's your writing and your irreverant sense of humor I love!

As an American woman of the Christian faith, I am proud of the good parts in my culture and work to improve the others. Were you, Stephanie, not proud of who you are and where you live, you would not be the vital, loved, wonderful person you are and we Americans and other nationalities would not be able to call you friend. I am proud to have been one of the first to have had my sock and I in a picture with you and your sock at a reading outside of Greensburg, PA.

I seriously doubt this woman has a passport to get to Canada to hurt you, she would never bother to leave the U.S. to actually widen her perspective on the world. She might learn that other people outside the U.S. have every right and reason to take pride in their nationality, culture and heritage. The world does not revolve around her, whether she is an American or not, and neither do you.

You go, girl! That woman is obviously off her crock. More power to you for not stooping to her level.

Wishing you all the strength you'll need to get through this.

I know it is easier to believe the bad stuff about ourselves, but take a look at all of us who love your work, who eagerly wait for your posts, who own all your books, who act like giddy schoolgirls when you come do a book signing in our towns. We are the ones you should believe.

Thank you for going to so much effort to keep your blog positive.

America hearts you.

...some of us are sicker then others.
I need to pray for this poor woman. She obviously doesn't knit enough.
Light On!

I am another reader that rarely comments (usually because there are so many!). I enjoy your blog immensely and would be sad if stopped blogging or even closed comments. As an American, I am ashamed of this person's behavior.

Love you, love your blog! Keep your chin up!

YH, I'm so sorry you have been dealing with this. I have been intending to comment since I love my daily calendar by you. I get a laugh every morning and usually learn something, too.
I'm glad you are going to stop using your energy to battle her. It looks like you have a lot of positive energy coming your way and I'm sending my to you, too.
Hang in there.
Sarah in Houston

Stephanie, I admire you and am so very impressed with how you're dealing with this. 100% behind you...

Sharing information as a tool for understanding was one of the first things I learned from my husband. He explained that it was unfair to allow someone to be 'blind-sided'. I sincerely appreciate the courtesy of being informed.
My admiration for your courage and for the support from your family. I send my love and affection and a passionate empathy for your love of country.
From an ol'Texas gal of the Christian persuasion.

I'm another long time reader, first time poster, who just wants to say that for every one like her, there are 1,000's of us who love your humour, your blog, and your books. You are showing an amazing amount of strength to deal with this as an adult, and that just makes me respect you even more.

Oh yes, and I'm another American. :)

I would say there are some serious psychological issues driving this woman. She's obviously obsessed (and NOT a Christian. Christians do not behave this way.) We are all behind you, Stephanie, and agree that this should not be the price for sharing your gift of humor.

As a human being, a blogger and an American, I am deeply offended by this "anonymous" woman and her rudeness. Who the h**l does she think she is? I am constantly dumbfounded that people actually waste their time being negative and rude on the internet...frankly, she needs to get off the computer and knit more.

Hang in there Steph, there's millions of us out here who love you and have been inspired by you!

I'm sorry you have to put up with such loonies, Steph... you know and we all know that her ire is completely undeserved, and next month she'll be stalking and harassing some other public figure. Be strong, let it roll off you. Your fans are legion for a very good reason... because you rock and you make the world a better place to be in.

The internet just brings out the worst in people -- I've seen posters like this woman in many of the online communities I've been in over the years, ones who take everything very seriously and personally, whether it's knitting or TV shows. Definitely the biggest deal to her is the idea that everything you do is somehow aimed at her, or that she's in some kind of battle with you, or whatever it is that gives her the attention that she so desperately craves (and probably online finds online), so you're totally right that depriving her of attention is the best way to go.

And I can guarantee that it has nothing to do with you or anything you say. You're just the sadly convenient target, and I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this.

Dear Steph,
Wow! Good for you for posting this. I too was afraid that you were going to stop your blog. I've been a long-time reader, less-frequent commenter but I love seeing the RSS feed with a new post from the YH! I'm an American, and she certainly doesn't even come close to speaking for me!

I love the posts you write about Canada. I've learned a lot from you... I knit, I have teenagers, I'm a vegetarian.

So, in the spirit of mutual love and kindness.... I'm going to help spread the light. Sending you lots of it!

With you 100%. You are an inspiration and are none of the things that were so sickeningly said. Thanks for being you!

Stephanie. I have read your blog for a long time and most of your books. All of the work you do is helpful and inspiring. It is really unfortunate you have had to waste so much time on this incident. Price of doing business on the Internet, but very sad. Thank you for sharing through the blog. There are many many of us who respect and admire you and are truly grateful that you are you. I wish you all the best. Thank you.

I, too am an American and find that person despicable. Everyone has their own opinion but there are ways to express your differences without being rude or hurtful. I have not felt your blog to be anti american. Hold your head up and continue to take the high road. Leave the gutter to her.

I am so sorry that someone is attacking you. Your July 1st post did show how Canada is different from the USA, in a very truthful way. What you have done for knitting in the last 10 years is truly amazing. I hope that this will end it and you can get back to thinking about SS09. I won't be there but can't wait to hear more about it all.
Stephanie in Ontario, Canada

I'm so sorry.

I'm sorry that you've found out why so many Americans feel the need to own a gun. Meet a few people like your stalker and you start to think maybe you need some protection, you know?

I'm sorry you found out how so many Americans have lost their faith as a result of watching other American Christians. If that's Christian, why would anyone want to be one? What kind of deity would let people use His name to justify such behavior?

We have a very vocal self-important mean-spirited do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do commnity here in the mostly wonderful USA. I am very pleased that you're only being bothered by one of them, and I'm even more pleased that you managed to go so long before one of the really nasty ones took to you like a kid with candy.

I'm really proud of you. You're behaving like an adult. You know better than to be a silent victim of a pitiful and probably mentally-ill bully. Good job.

You make a great role-model for your children.

I wish the world had a lot more people like you in it.

Good for you Stephanie.

sorry you have to deal with this Stephanie... we love you!

How awful that you have had to deal with a person like that. This American and Christian woman(living in Maryland) enjoys your blog and your books. Hugs, kazbels

You are amazing. I adore your blog, and your knitting, and your humor. You've handled this as gracefully and honorably as possible, and I sincerely hope that this woman stops her nonsense.
I'm sending lots of positive energy and knitting vibes your way! <3

xoxo

That seems the best thing to say.

I'm another longtime reader and first time commenter. I just wanted to break my internet silence to wave my flag of support for you. I'm so sorry to hear that you've had to deal with this situation, and I think you're handling it totally admirably. Good for you, lady.

Hey, I'm an American and very very proud of my country, though I see its weakness in every day I live here. I'm also a Christian, but unlike that person, I understand that hatred is no way to spread love. No one has the right to treat you like that. You are fully supported. Take care of yourself, ok? Just be safe.

I too am a first time poster who was stunned by this blog entry. I've had a similar experience and left me totally shaken and fearful. Be strong and know that there are people on both sides of the border who read your posts and enjoy them (and by the way the one about your husband getting stuck still makes me laugh). Do what you need to do to make sure that you, your family and your friends remain safe and secure.

Here's another American that thinks you are a great person, of towering strength, wit, inspiration and full of love, creativity, compassion and that oh-so-elusive common sense.

Enjoy your view from the high road, it's loverly :)

Hi Steph, It must have been so hard for you to write this post. I'm so sorry you and your family are going through this personal attack. For what it is worth, I've think you have done the right thing to involve the police at this stage.

I'm a long time reader of your blog and will continue to buy your books. I think you are a blessing to the knitting world.

Sending your love from Australia.

Yet another lurker coming out to show support for you.

This woman is clearly mentally disturbed. What you've done is, I think, the right thing. You've tried to deal with her rationally, but there is no logic to her actions.

My thoughts are with you and your family.

~ an American

OMG! This has been awful for you. Please believe that we love you, we love reading whatever you write. I am so very ashamed that someone from my country, the country I love, can behave to you in this manner. SHAME ON HER!

Steph - I have NEVER been offended by anything you write and I love it when you write about Canada. I have learned so much about your country from you! Please, please stay who you are and remember for every one of her there are THOUSANDS of us who love you! See you in two weeks!

Like you said, she's gone off the deep end. And if she tries anything at Sock Summit, I imagine there will be thousands of red-blooded Americans, as well as your fellow Canadians, that would be happy to pounce on her and hold her for authorities. (Not that we'd just hand her over before inflicting lots of deep stab wounds with those straight needles we're bringing for the World Record...). I can't imagine that anyone thinks she's talking sense unless they, too, are in need of a private padded room with a friendly straightjacket.

I am so sorry that you have been so hurt by this unfortunate situation. You have taken the high road, and for that you should be proud. Bullies are mean, but they don't have to win.

Count me as another American Christian conservative woman knitter who is a fan of the Yarn Harlot!

Nobody deserves what you have faced. I wouldn't have been shocked if this entry had ended with your declaration that you were going to stop blogging and withdraw from the internet or public life entirely. It is never good to give in to people like this, but to take continual ad hominem attacks against your character that you cannot directly counter because you have to eat, to sleep, to spend time with your family is not right. Good for you for facing it like this. I hope that it bears out peacefully.

Know that we're here for you. Stay strong. This too will pass.

Oh my, this leaves me almost speechless. Some things I'm sure you know but I feel like I have to say:
1. There's something very wrong with someone who feels the need to do this, and even though she's making it all about you, it's really not you at all. I hope this won't take up much more of your emotional energy, it's got to be draining.
2. I am both a Christian and an American and she sure doesn't speak for me.
Wow.
I come to this blog for knitting inspiration and a smile, and I always get both.

OK. Thank you for explaining this. I hope it stops soon.

I am glad you came forward about this and are being the bigger person. I am an American and have been reading you blog for a little over a year. I have never see you post anything I felt negatively reflected on anyone.

I am certainly concerned for the woman that has targeted you because it sounds like she hurting. I am sorry that she has selected you to take her anger and hurt out on.

Stay strong through this. You have a lot of very loyal people behind you.

Sticks and Stones may Break my Bones, but Words will Never Hurt Me.

I'm sorry this is happening and how did she ever think you were Anti-American? I've read your blog for years and have never thought of you as controversial or hateful.

And as for losing your fan base, never.

Hateful Christian, now that's an oxymoron! Stay on the high road. All of us, even here in Chicago, enjoy your blog and we support you 100%. I know this must be very difficult for you but know that those of us who appreciate you will never engage this person or give her the attention she seems to crave in a distorted way. You have many fans who will buy your books and read your blog.

American-Christian-Pussy-Owner chiming in here: You are awesome. That is all. <3

As a Catholic American, I am offended to have such a person attempt to represent me. Carry on, YarnHarlot. We support you. We shall ignore her and take away the wind in her sails. Please be safe, though, since violent people severely dislike being ignored. And she will now be ignored.

Thanks for organizing the Sock Summit and thinking up the Dye for Glory. My stash is now nicely enhanced by your efforts, which enhances my happiness.

What was it again we weren't supposed to discuss anymore? Never mind. It must not have been important.

~Saneknitter

I have been reading the blog for a little while, and own a few of your books. Because of you, I discovered just how good a sweet potato burrito is with a beer! Your knitting is such a wonderful inspiration, and I laughed so hard the night I read your post with your kitty and the bathtub had me laughing so loud my kids came in and asked what was up. I am proud of your integrity and fortitude. Love and Light from here in Va up to there in Canada.

I check your blog everyday and enjoy the humor you bring to all the wonderful joys and challenges life brings. Please don't stop sharing with us.
Nothing about this individual's behavior is Christian or American!

Dear Steph,

As an avid knitter, and therapist, may I beg you to be very, very careful of this person's behaviour. I urge you to make a statement to police to protect yourself and the ones you love. Trying to disengage from this type of behaviour may lead her to even great efforts to reach you, at any cost. Please consult a lawyer as well, to see if you can get a restraining order. This woman, as you describe her sounds as thought she is suffering from some kind of mental illness. Please, please be very careful!!
Thank you, Jan

I have been reading your blog for quite a while now, and I consider it on of the best ones I have ever read. It is interesting and witty, and I have never been offended by anything you have said (I live in the US). Keep up the good work!

I am so sorry for her, and embarrassed for her; she must be in a terrible place to feel the need to take it out on you. And I'm sorry that she picked you as her target. Unfortunately, when she tires of you, she'll probably pick someone else to make as miserable as she is. In the meantime, please know that we love you and that you (and the family) are in our thoughts and prayers.

I can't imagine how difficult this post must have been to write, especially after all you have endured from a person who would appear to be mentally unbalanced. I think that you are absolutely right to shine light on this situation and person, and to not respond to her. Keep on doing what you have been, because you are doing a fabulous job!

I love your blog I've never leave a comment but I'm so ashamed of my fellow american, I'm so sorry... Liz

Another American behind you all the way. Keep shining the light!

Wow. Well I'm an American and I think you're great! I saw you speak when you came to Anchorage, Alaska and you were wonderful! Please try not to let this get to you. I love your books and you are a very talented knitter. You motivate me to knit and I love all your stories!!!

Yay, I LOVE when people make the Ugly American Stereotype look true! Wait, I meant the other thing, dislike. Sorry you've got a personal troll hon, good luck dealing with the cray-cray. I'll never understand why people who don't like someone's writing keep reading it, instead of just, IDK, ignoring it? So you'll stop getting the hits and looking so popular? Whatevs.

Stephanie

You are so strong to be able to deal with all of this aside from the normal day to day challenges of life. I don't think there is anything wrong with you promoting Canada Day or any other Canadian holiday, and I have NEVER felt disrespected by you or anything you have said on your blog. I hope all of the people out there pulling for you give you the strength you need to get through this. Have a large glass of wine (or 3)! We're all pulling for you!
Kristina

Man oh man. Here, have a beer. You deserve it.

I have to say that us Canadians know that she is an individual and not speaking for all Americans. You're off the hook for this one America!

The sad thing is I don't think she is mentally ill. She's petty, mean and I really have to think lacking in self confidence. Otherwise why would she put so much time into knocking someone else down? I really pity her.

I've been reading your blog for a long time now, never posted, but I wanted to throw my support behind you! Best wishes, and stay strong.

Stephanie, I'm really sorry. If you ever thought our American medical health system was inadequate, I regret that you get such a good example of how our mental health system is nonexistent. Doesn't sound like this woman should be loose on the street.

As a pagan, I call on the goddess to bless this woman. I leave it to the goddess to decide what blessings she needs, although I certainly have MY opinion about what she _really_ needs.
:-/

We love you!
(Long time reader, first time -I think- poster.)

First time poster, but long time reader. I am incredibly impressed by your calm response to a person who clearly needs a lot of help. Definitely a model to live by. Please keep inspiring us.

What a scary situation to deal with, do not be discouraged and thank you for sharing with us your good times and your not so good times. I do so enjoy your blog and as I have bought your books as a result of it and if you can write this charming and humorous blog with your busy schedule, then why wouldn't you be able to continue to produce your funny and education books as well? By the way Sock Summit will become a legend. All I have to do is mention the fact that I would love to have gone and I get the same response, it doesn't matter if they are knitter, weavers or spinners, it seems to unite us all. I live in California and just traveled most of it along with Arizona - crafters everywhere were singing your praises - yes we all seem to read your blog - with delight. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for bringing some fun into my day.

This is my first comment after lurking here for years.

I can't believe this is happening to you.

I am American and I make sure to read your blog every day. Not to see what anti-American things you have to say that day, but to see what wonderfully witty, and knitty things you have to say. You make me smile day after day. . .

Here's to sharing a beer some day.

K

So sorry you've had to go through this sh!t. Mostly I think it's wonderful that the world is full of such different people, but sometimes .... Well. Speak of what?

How's the blanket coming? Or the socks? Done yet, super-speedy?

Shameful representation indeed! >hug<

Wow. Lots of love Steph, eh?

Dear Stephanie,

Yet another lurker. I just want to thank you for doing what you do. I really admire the eloquent way you are dealing with this horrible situation. I really find inspiration and joy in your writing. As another human being (who happens to be American) I am horrified that this type of this is happening to you. Love and Peace! ((HUG))

Thank you for making my day--and obviously the days of many many others--better every time you post.

You have spent too much of your life on this woman already.

I'm an American, and I love my country, and I deeply respect others who love their countries. You are entitled to enjoy being who you are. Loving one's own land and people is not an insult to everyone else.

And, well, please don't judge us by this wing-nut.

I'm not even much of a lefty, but again, I respect people who have strong convictions and enjoy reading what is written well. And MSF gets some cash from us because of you, so keep on writing well.

That's how you reach others, you know. Writing well. So back to the needles, and the words. That is what deserves your energy. Well, that and the sock summit.

Please, please move on.

Stephanie,
I have been reading your blog for several years now- it was thanks to your lovely blog that I really delved seriously into knitting. This is my first time commenting, but I just really wanted to tell you how much I admire and respect you. The situation you describe is absolutely frightening! I think it is wise to share this with your readers and I hope people will indeed follow your lead and avoid confrontation with this individual. I sincerely hope that this resolves itself soon and you can go back to enjoying this wonderful space that you so graciously share with all of us!

You are a much beloved friend, Stephanie. No matter where we live, we're circling the wagons around you.

oh dear! I just have no idea how some people can get so crazy nuts! I hope you get rest and feel comfort from letting this out. I also hope you tell the management at Sock Summit to be looking out for this crazy. The building, the local authorities and everyone there. Stay with a buddy at all times. ((()))

posting for the first time ever to say that i love your blog, stephanie. youre a great writer and a classy lady. rock on!

Wow. A big, huge, stunned...wow. What a nutter! I am so glad you're are taking this so well and dealing with the whole situation with respect and dignity. I would have sunk WAY PAST her level a while back. You are the truest sense of the word 'Lady'. Even with any patriarchal Victorian connotations that may be associated with it, I stand by it. As a pagan-queer-Canadian mother (take that you whack job! Oh yeah, oops, sorry, sorry, don't antagonize her. Right), I love you! You encourage and enlighten and fill me with happiness and greater perspective when I read your blog. I love hearing about what I get to look forward to as my kids grow, I love hearing about your projects and tribulations with them, your open-minded views on family and spirituality, your garden, and I love your love for everyone, and your devotion to make the world a better place. You remind me not to be cynical, petty and bitter, no matter what life slings at you.

Keep your head high - but not so high you can't see your monitor, because my world would be a darker place if you stopped blogging and writing!

Oh Stephanie, I'm so sorry :(

I don't agree with some things you do, but I can tell that everything you do is done with intelligence, forethought and strong values. I admire you very much and am sincerely grieved that someone would do this to you.

It's clear to me from the things she's writing that she really has no personal problem with you at all - she's just a little nuts and needs to attack someone and play the "game" she keeps telling you it isn't. Very sad, but NOT about you. She's grabbing at straws and trying to find faults where there are NONE.

Please don't feel badly about yourself. You are lovely and interesting and a breath of fresh air in my Google Reader. I wish people treated you like you treat the world - with interest, appreciation and respect.

You made the right decision. We're behind you all the way. For every one terribly dangerous wacko, there are a thousand lurking admirers.

P.S. I'm an American who has been reading your blog for a few years, and I always enjoy your Canada posts. They are very patriotic, which is something I admire because I am patriotic too. But I have never once noticed a serious slight to Americans - and I'm pretty sure I would have if there was one.

and yet another lurker -- from the US -- Steph, I love your blog and your writing. Keep it up, and don't let her get you down. Remember that you are successful and a good parent and an all around wonderful person who deserves all the good things in life.

I am so sorry for this loon who is stalking you and make no mistake she is a stalker. As someone else said please make sure the authorities in Toronto and her town are made aware of this behavior. I would even contact the FBI and Homeland Security in the USA and the Canadian equivilants since this is an international thing. Sometimes ignoring a mentally ill person makes them try even harder to get your attention. You are a better person than I and as a Michigander I LOVE Canada and Canadians are good peeps.

Wowie wowie wow. My stomach has cramps for you. What a blight. I can hear in your tone how burdened you are. :( Thank you for telling us though.

Wow, I was holding my breath reading that post. I really thought you were going to pull the blog for awhile there. Stephenie, We love you and this blog so much! You are a light in my knitting day. I love your humour and I am American! Thanks for letting this off of your shoulders some tiny bit and for taking a true high road with this. I think you are correct to shine some light on the subject for everyone. Please watch out for yourself and rest assured that 99 percent of us readers are so happy to "know" you. I really wish you a world of good especially now while you and Tina and all the other wonderful organizers make history at Sock Summit! Have a great time- I wish I was going, but maybe next time!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the fun of this blog, and all your books!!!

I am so sorry this has happened. I appreciate how you have responded. I look forward to giving you a smile at Sock Summit.

I am so sorry that you're dealing with something like this on top of everything else you're doing.

This American likes you just the way you are.

Hugs!

There are some really sick people out there, and I'm so sorry to hear that one of them is putting you and your family through all of this. Stay strong!

I hope that lady gets some treatment soon for whatever is wrong with her.

Stephanie - I'm so sorry you have to put up with this. I look forward to checking your blog every day because of the knitting, the humor, and the positive vibes. I think the other comments prove that there is an extremely diverse, extremely large group of readers who follow your blog for the same reasons. As crappy as it all feels, don't let it discourage you from sharing your thoughts and talents with us! What would we do without our Yarn Harlot?! You have my support all the way!

Oh Stephanie. Ugh. I am so sorry you have had to deal with this person.
I can't say how much I admire you for this post - I doubt I would have had as much grace under fire. It seems mad to me that the internet appears to give people permission to act so outrageously. I feel like my blog is my home, and I would never walk into someone's home and start verbally tearing it to shreds. I will never understand the impulse to dress someone down just because you can: if you don't like what someone has to say, you have the very simple escape of SIMPLY NOT READING THEIR BLOG!
But this, as many people have said, is surely a mental health issue.
Rest assured, for the handful of people who misunderstand you and can't see how honest, genuine, loving, tolerant of everyone and ethical you are, there are millions of people who do see you.
Keep being strong, and try not to give this woman any more of your energy or worry. Her ranting is only going to tarnish herself.
Enjoy your yarn, your beautiful family and the friends who love you.
Peace xo

Stephanie--Thank you for sharing your life with us, your Canadian life. How would I ever have known about pousin (sp?) without you!!! And I follow your tweets in the side bar and that is how this American first heard about Jimmy Carter's essay this week and googled to learn more. Thank you again. N

It is things like this that make me truly embarrassed to be American. I'm sorry that someone feels like they need to be so hurtful to such a wonderful individual. Hopefully her 'Jesus' will make her realize her wrongs, but I doubt she will even be willing to see it. Stay strong, stay safe and stay sane. We are all behind you. Love and Light from New Mexico.

As yet another american who thinks you are spiffy and wonderful, this woman is obviously a nutter. Perhaps she's one of the angry ranters who didn't get into the sock summit? Take care, and don't let it get you down :)

Oh, the slogging through the soup of life - sometimes it gets pretty messy - sorry you've had your heaping bowl full of that...

Here's some love...

and some light...

and a friendly hug

Keep being you - you're beautiful:)

I've read your blog for years, but I almost never comment. I did, however, want to say this: I am completely mortified at what this woman has done (is doing!). It offends me as a woman, a Christian, and an American. I will admit to being one who was a little stung by the Canada Day post. I had seen a couple of other famous Canadians who were, in my opinion, taking some digs at Americans on Canada Day, and I did prickle a bit. I even tweeted about feeling a little bashed on July 1 (in general, not by you specifically). Your post was by far the "softest" of the things that got to me that day, and I know enough about you from your blog to know that you were simply showing pride in your own country (as you should). I certainly don't think you were trying to insult anyone, and I knew I was already feeling a bit raw. It certainly was not enough to make me stop reading your blog, and it was *definitely* not enough to make me send you hate mail! For goodness sake, people! I follow your blog because I find you thoroughly entertaining. I love reading about your adventures, I love reading about how you live your life (because it is quite different from mine, which makes it interesting to me). And I don't even knit! But I'm always up for a good laugh, something you so often provide. Thank you for all that you do for your readers. I'm sorry this is what the generous sharing of your life had brought. "Light, love, respect." What an excellent mantra. The world would be a much better place if we all lived those three little words every day. Peace.

Oh Stephanie, I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. Let me just say I am an American woman and she does not speak for me. You have my strength Stephanie! Hang on Girl!

I'm sorry you are having to deal with all this.

I haven't read all the other comments, but as someone who's been reading and loving your blog for many years now, I just wanted to add my voice of support. I love your blog, I love your writing, and I hope you keep up despite the antagonism. Be strong, and know that we are all (even us usually silent folks) behind you.

Oh, honey, this is bad. Make sure the police know and a lawyer too so you stay safe. A male friend of mine is trying to reconstruct his life and relationships after being victim of a stalker.

We love you, you inspire us with your knitting, and the way you live your life. It's obvious that you have a lot of love for your family and your art. Don't let the ravings of one sick person change the way you feel about yourself. Poor thing probably can't knit. She does not represent The Blog.

YH--I learned to knit because of you. I read your book, who knows which one at this point, & learned that it was OK to make mistakes and that one could be creative and color outside the lines. I picked up some needles and some very expensive yarn and have been knitting away for 15 months now. Obsessively reading your blog, your books, your twitters, and learning sooo much about much more than knitting. And going back and reading all the past Canada posts was a DELIGHT. and being originally from Georgia, I loved your two recent twitters about native son Jimmy Carter, and hate to claim him, Paul Broun.

Here is the deal. This person is consumed by the green eyed monster. Everyone loves you, buys your books, reads your blog, and I bet she is in some type of competition with you. Take jealousy and twist it with a little mentally off and that is a dangerous mix. TAKE CARE of you and yours, just keep blogging and we will keep shining our lights.
Someday I might learn how to knit a sock and get to come to some future sock summit, meanwhile loving voting on Dye for Glory.

I remember last year that someone took offense to your Canada Day post and at the time, I went back and re-read it and tried to be objective (I'm also Canadian) and I couldn't find anything wrong with it. Same with this years. I just don't get it. How can being proud to be Canadian be anti everyone else?

I know how the bad comments stay with you longer than the good ones but there are lots of us out there that love your work and will keep reading as long as you keep writing.

At least one pagan American is lighting a candle for you tonight, and sending good vibes and sincere hope for some peace in your direction.

Another American weighing in--she does not represent me in any aspect of the word "american." Delete her into eternity.........

Gee Stephanie, how sad you had to experience this. I read your blog off and on because I always find it a good read and like to see what you are knitting. When I am knitting I read it and when I am into embroidery I read those blogs. When you came to Denver I went to see you and bought your book. I love it and have read it several times. But you know something... politically, socially and religiously we are probably miles apart. So what, who cares, all that means is that we sure could have some fun, over a beer, arguing our views with each other. I am an American and I thought freedom of speech was one of those things we prided ourselves in. SHAME ON HER!!!

I'm sorry you've been dealing with this. That one is a full on nutcase.

Hopefully this is the end of it.

I also have not read all (167 when I started typing this) the previous comments. I just wanted to post about how much I enjoy reading your blog and sharing in the bits of your life that you post. I wanted to add my voice in appreciation and support for you:)

Don't lose sleep over this crazy person. I love your blog and look forward to every new post. The highlight of my knitting life was meeting you in Madison earlier this year. Keep doing what you do best... keeping us laughing, inspired and yearning for more of your wit. I am of many American's who adore you.

I am an American. I am a United States Marine. I am a woman with grit. Name Removed does not represent me; however, as one of her fellow countrymen I apologize for the harassment of a delusional woman who has inexplicably wrapped herself in the American flag.

I had the pleasure of meeting you at the 2006 Book Expo in DC. You were delightful and very sweet and took the time to speak with everyone despite the hordes of us vying for your attention.

Please know that there are tons of American Yarn Harlot fans. Keep your chin up and keep being true to yourself.

I am so sorry. As a US citizen and a Christian, I'm ashamed of her behavior.

If you're ever in Arkansas (or, heck, western TN or SE Missouri), I'll buy you a beer (or three).

Maybe some alpaca, too.

I'm just speechless.

You're absolutely correct - she thrives on the attention. But I am still concerned about the possibility of her being unbalanced mentally. What she is doing at this point is stalking, and it should be possible to get some sort of cyber (and physical) restraining order in place. You may need it. This is absolutely no joke. Please get the law involved.

I'm south of the border, also, and I've never perceived your delight in your country to be a way of putting down mine. I love your writing, I love your (for want of a better term) Internet morals - I always refer back to your living room analogy before commenting on someone's blog.

I think it is always shattering to find a knitter (of all people!) who is not playing nice. I hope you find some way of relegating this problem from "major life disrupter" to simply "minor annoyance."

Oh, and if you need a place to hide, my son's going to college next month. You can have his room. Plenty of space for yarn...

We love you! Hang in there!

DO NOT FEED THE TROLL.

As an American, first time commenter and admirer of you and your beautiful country, I echo so many of these positive comments. I read your blog every time you post. I love your sense of humor, your respect for ALL people, your energy, your creative spirit, you HUMANESS, your love for your family and your art.
I could go on about that person, I could say that this has almost moved me to tears that some stranger..or anyone would be so hurtful. I want to be charitable towards her, but I am finding it very difficult.
Keep on keeping on...you are loved and respected as all people should be.
Best to you...

I've disagree with you many times. Don't agree with your position on gauge and a few other of your knitting beliefs.

As a conservative Christian American, I say "So what if you lived in sin, married without religion and are a vegan?" We're not BFFs, you're a funny blogger who writes funny books about knitting. We will always have knitting in common. I'm a knitter who enjoys good humor. I also have the ability to separate my real life from the Interwebnetz. Imagine that.

And FOR THE RECORD, you are an American. Canada, last I checked, is still North America. So pttttptht to your troll.

I hope you've reported her violations of TOS to her ISP but I have a feeling your advisors are smart enough to have done that already.

I suppose I am another person who has been reading your blog for quite sometime and has chosen today to be my first comment. I am also an American, and I must say I love reading your blog, I adore your books, and I really hope this lets up for you. Stay strong!

I'm so sorry, this all sounds awful. Be strong!

YH...I read your blog every day..have for years. Your writing is meant to be light, but I tell you, lady, you've touched me many times. Hang in there. Leavin the light on for you!!!

How dreadful! Thank you for staying with us despite the nastiness. I admire your tenacity and strength.

may all who suffer the agony of mean thoughts be healed with love and compassion.

I'm another proud Christian American who respects you and your country. I have not seen anything anti-American in your Canada Day posts.
Live and let live.
Hugs.
M in M

Stephanie you are my hero. I am an American and I love you. You inspire me . Keep up the good work and know that your are loved.

This is the first time I've commented, but I had to join the stream of positive wishes. Bravo for your attitude - I've found it often takes more courage and strength to turn the other cheek, which you are doing so well.

What I know to be true in situations like these, and what I hope you can believe, is that the venom and poison this person is spewing comes from whatever is wrong inside of her and has nothing to do with you. You did nothing to provoke it, cause it, or prolong it. You cannot control what she is doing. And you absolutely do not deserve it, nor does it contain any kernel of application to you or your life.

I too am de-lurking to give my support; I love your blog, and your books (and yes, I am a Christian living in the US!). Light, love and respect. Hang in there. :)

OMGoodness Stephanie, I'm sorry that you have to deal with a headcase who obviously has no life except to torment others. I'm so glad that you are taking steps to eliminate this person from your life.

I have enjoyed reading your blog and books for sometime now, and I really appreciate your outlook on both knitting and life in general. As an American, I really like your comments on life in Canada and observations of life in America.

Rock on girl!! Keep on blogging - we're all behind you!!

I post every once and a while, and I have to say I'm horrified by this "woman"'s behavior. I agree with Carol and Jan in their comments particularly, because stalking is illegal, even over the internet, and this person needs to be brought to justice for her actions.

As an American (well, a Michiganian which may not count since we border Canada ;o)) I have to say that she is a stereo-typical American who does not understand the Constitution. Freedom of speech means that everyone gets to state their opinions, even if one does not agree.

I'd also like to add that the behavior of this person is the reason why I went away from Christianity because I just saw un-Christian-like behavior being performed by so-called Christians. I don't know you personally, just from your blog, and I must say that you seem to act more Christian-like than she currently is.

Go have a beer and consult your lawyer after Sock Summit.

Stephanie, so sorry you're being picked on by this tiresome person. I enjoy your blog and your books very much. I think that garter stitch blanket is calling you...or maybe a little work on the pretty green beaded sock? Many friendly, warm, and woolly vibes from a crocheter who is learning KSL (Knitting as a Second Language)

Steph, as usual you are the picture of grace and dignity even in the face of, well, the opposite. I was so afraid as I read your post that you had decided that it was time to call it a day. My world would shrink greatly if you did, but knowing you no longer had to deal with personal attacks by loons would make the loss bearable.
hugs to you and your family

Hugs and sympathies. Stalkers can be pretty scary. Stay safe, and let the joy of all the support everyone is sending you wash this sucker right out of your mind.

We like to think of knitters as a small community and that we are all kind wonderful people brought together by the joy and love of knitting but unfortunately we get all kinds.

I am dealing with a totally unreasonable person like this in my life too. She thinks that another person and I have ganged up on her and are passing vicious lies about her. I think she needs something to be pissed off about so that she doesn't have to deal with her own lackluster life.

It's sad and unfortunate that both these women are wasting their time (time that could be spent so much more efficiently and perhaps with people they care about) when this is all a big misunderstanding.

Have to agree with Lou, we are all knitters, who just happen to live in different places on our planet. And what's wrong with a little local pride, be it, neighbourhood, community, province/state/region or country? There are great things about everywhere!! Be strong, hold your head high, you have much to be proud of..and don't stoop to respond to that level of behaviour. And I would also concur...call the authorities!!!

Stephanie, I am so behind you. It is extremely sad that you and your family have had to put up with the 'crap' as long as you have. I look forward to your blog and books...love you like a sister...take care.

Stephanie,
As an American woman and knitter who has never before left a comment on your blog, I felt compelled to let you know that I find you both endearing and inspiring. If more people were like you I think the world would be a better place. Keep up the awesomeness!

Hi Steph,

All countries have their loonies, some good loonie some bad loonie.

I'm sorry that people in the public eye sometimes become targets and I'm sorry that's happened to you.

Regards,
Kathy

Whoa! I can't imagine how much you've had to deal with during these weeks. No one deserves to be stalked and abused like that. And you are right, an eye for an eye just creates a vicious cycle of problems. I wish you a speedy resolution to this. Good luck!

I'm an American living in Oz now and cringe when I see "ugly American" behavior as shown by this obviously demented and disgusting woman. I am so sorry you have been subjected to this idiot.
I've been a long time reader of your blog and have laughed and cried with you and learned a lot along the way.
"Good on ya" as they say down under. No wonder you have so many of us who love and respect you. I hope you continue to share your amazing life with us for many more years.

Bless your heart, Stephanie. (That's "Southern" for "poor dear," by the way) You don't deserve this at all, and I hope you remember that throughout all of this.
I'd like to reiterate what others have already said: this isn't about you, it's about *her* It's a common practice for unhappy people to "project" their feeling about themselves onto others, and this is clearly what is happening here. You're a wonderful mother and all-around great gal, and your family is lucky to have you.
I have to wonder if this woman's family (if she has one - hard to make assumptions about someone you know nothing about) is happy about her habit of spending hours on the internet trolling for "anti-American" knitting blogs...
So keep your head up, try to disengage from the negative back-and-forth (I know it's especially hard when you feel the need to deny the obviously false claims, but it is essential for ending the conflict) and don't be afraid to vent your feelings in a safe way - I recommend writing a nasty letter out on paper, then shredding/burning it. Works wonders for me when I'm annoyed with my holier-than-thou roommate.
And as for you losing fans over this... I highly doubt it, but I think I'll move one of your books from my wish list to my shopping cart in honor of your "dear friend."

Peace and Love

and pardon my arrogance at saying I'm an "American." I should have said U.S. citizen. Why are so many of us so self focused? I know better.

Enjoy your Sock Summit!

I shall not speak of that which you wish us to not speak of...

Yours truly,
A knitting American -- because of the Knitting Olympics! :)

wow! sorry for all your trouble, who'd have ever thunk a knitting blog could cause wwIII?! I like your blog, and I'm an American- proud to be an American but sure not proud of that lunatic. I will pray for you, I think you have a crazy stalker and personally I would be very frightened. I sure hope that person will stay far far away from you. Good luck and stay strong.

First: I love your blog.
Second: Good for you for standing up for yourself.
Third: It is always wise to know what the enemy is doing.

I've dealt with folks like this before. (A family member in fact.) The most important thing is to be consistent and keep maintaining the boundaries you've created. Give an inch and a mile and then some, will be taken. But if everyone consistently keeps ignoring her, she will get tired and find somthing else to get hot and bothered about. Though it may take a long time.

Hey sweet knitting sister, I think you are fabulous. I have actually given a copy of free range knitter to my daughter with postit note on the chapter about your daughter's birthday. I thought it was precious, and you are too. Stay above the fray. The high road is best, and maybe this crazed human will change her ways. Or maybe not. But you dear Stephanie are loved and prayed for. You are a gift to the knitting planet. :-)

Sending you lots of love and strength.
Stay strong and continue being a star that shines brightly!

I hope it's all over soon. Sending you a big hope-to-make-you-feel-better hug your way.

Oh, Steph, I'm so sorry. Thank you for maintaining your sanity in the face of unbalanced harassment. Your writing convinced me to try knitting socks, and I have even gone so far as to knit lace. I thank you for knitting and writing bravely, to (very loosely) paraphrase EZ.

(Seriously? Canada Day? I love your Canada Day posts. How odd.)

Every country has their share of disturbed people. Let everyone know and don't be quiet about it! Expose this person. Call and involve all agencies that can help you in this.

She mentioned Jesus in her email to you but she obviously must not follow the WWJD?(What Would Jesus Do?)way of thinking about dealing with the life matters that we all have to deal with.Did she not get a space at SS09?Did she hear someone else complain about our country?I just don't understand.I am so sorry you have dealt with this for so long almost by yourself.Just know that there are far more of us that love you for you and are sending you good vibes from America.

Dearest Steph:

I have to say, I am stunned. Stunned by what has been going on, and stunned by your strength in the face of it. It seems you are handling this with as much grace as anyone could. Doubly impressive with the hugeness that is the Sock Summit barreling down upon you. I must say, you have many many qualities I aspire to develop in myself.

More power to you, Stephanie. I've met you twice at book signings, and now I'm more honored by the experience than ever.

Keep being strong and fair and brilliant. I'll be sending good karma and prayers in your direction, and a little fortitude to finish The Blanket as well.

I am stunned. I am a long time reader but rarely post. I am so sorry that you have had to put up with such madness. I hope that you know she does not represent Americans or Christians (of which I am both) with her hatefulness. You are strong and have many, many, behind you. (hug)

I've read your blog for a while, but this is my first time posting. I'm behind you completely. I have never seen an anti-American sentiment on your blog, don't believe you have it in you. I look forward to your posts to get a chuckle, be entertained or learn. Thanks so much for what you do. There are way more of "us" that her, we won't listen to a thing she says. Take care!

While this feels personal, it is truly not about you. Whatever the issue is, it is not really about disrespect for nationality or religion; that is the camouflage that hides the button-pushing. As the steward of your blog, it is not hypocritical to delete hateful comments, or to do what you need to protect yourself.

Like most readers, I read this blog because I am a part of the wonderful, world-wide community of knitters. Your blog illustrates just how influential you are in this community- for instance, the AMAZING fundraising for MSF. Unfortunately, success can make one a target. I appreciate all the good you do, and wish you the best in navigating this ugliness as you sail forward!

Oh Steph,
I have always felt an unreasonable sense of pride that you are Canadian, and it's awful that someone who, I believe, represents Canadian values so beautifully, has to be subject to this level of poison. People who shine the light are the objects of hatred by those who prefer the dark. I'm old enough to be your mother, and I wish I could protect you from this horror. You are a treasure, and a force of enormous good. Thanks for providing your wisdom and love to the rest of us. You are The Force.

Dear Stephanie,

I know I'm echoing the sentiment of several other commenters, but here it is anyway:

I love reading your blog entries. You are funny, creative, and endearing in so many ways.

I am an American, a Christian, and pretty conservative. Even though we are different, I have never felt disrespected by anything you have said on your blog. EVER.

You are proud of your country -- nothing wrong with that! You express your opinions and your positions, but you are always respectful of others who do not share them.

You are different from me... but you are my neighbor, and I will treat you with kindness and grace.

Oh, geez. Not to feed the troll or anything, but keep rockin' on with your bad self no matter what anyone says. You (obviously) don't need me to restate how wonderful you are, how much we all enjoy your blog, but. Well. You know.

And are you sure this is a woman? Only men consider 'pussy' to be the ultimate insult. Most (real) women just consider it a body part. :-)

Hi Stephanie, well this is horrible. I hate that she's saying all this stuff and spending so much time harassing you via comments and email, but mostly I hate the picture I'm getting of what it's doing to you - you're worrying that any minute she's going to be posting a comment and you have to watch out for that so you can delete asap; you worry about what you say on your blog since you can't help but see it through her eyes and worry what she might say. She is getting through your defenses and you are doubting yourself. Well, girl, stay strong. Here's a true reflection from me, a 41 yr old knitting, part-time-working, thinking, special-needs-parenting, singing woman: You are really funny. You are a cool knitter. You are a really good writer. And you give of your life on your blog, which helps people like me get through their own lives. (Thank you for all of that.) So take a deep breath, and carry on. love, Liz

I am so sorry that you have had to put up with abuse from this unstable whack-job. I am a huge Harlot fan and second all the love and support from the commenters today and also want to say; watch your back.

Wow. It's people like her who give Americans a bad name.

She is definitely mentally ill. She reminds me a lot of the person who was stalking me a few years ago. The only way I got him to stop was to have the police tell him that if he ever contacted me again in any way (email, blog, phone, mail...ANY WAY), that I would press charges. He still says horrible things about me on his blog (I don't read it anymore, but occasionally someone comes to my blog from one of his links, and I see the title of his blog post. Nasty stuff), but at least I don't get the emails and blog comments anymore.

Good luck to you, from an American knitter who's respectable enough, I figure.

(hug)

Steph,

We are all so very proud of you. As an American I have never felt insulted by you. I'm glad that you have come to us your blog about this. Please just be careful and don't listen to the inner critic too much. You are my absolute favorite blog. The one I read even on the days when it's painful physically to get online. Besides you are the "evil" soul who introduced me to sock knitting. (You should see the sock yarn non-stash) Now, I know I'm being a bit paranoid, but I do worry about your and your families safety, please be careful. We don't want to see you hurt emotionally or otherwise.

Please be careful and happy,

Stephanie, You have always taken the high road and you continue to take the high road. I join the others that are horrified by this person's actions and we know that YOU know she doesn't reflect the feelings of 1/1000000th of us. My only fear now is for your physical safety at SS. Though you'll be SURROUNDED by adoring fans.

Keep up your good work. You are setting a shining example for your daughters.

Stephanie, wow. I'm so sorry you have to put up with this type of crazy. Take care of yourself. You mention "the authorites" so I presume you have taken steps to ensure the relevant agencies are aware of the wingnut. Hopefully she will be crazy enough irl to make someone take notice and ensure she gets the help she needs.

First time posting. Crappy crappy crappy that you have to deal with this. I've been reading you for three or four years now and LOVE your blog. Keep up the excellent work, there's a light shining from Chicago for you.

Another lurker from the shadows here, keep your chin up, Stephanie! Have some wine and some good yarn, some people aren't worth thinking about.

Like many other comments today have said, I have been reading your blog for quite a while without commenting.

You have my deep sympathy and also my respect for how you have dealt with this difficult person. I'm sending you all the positive energy I can and I will be praying for the woman who has been causing all of this trouble.

Your generosity of spirit and higher-ground ethic is exactly why I don't blog -- I could never live up to your example. Besides, I'd rather spend my time reading your blog instead.

As a male muggle lucky enough to be married to an addict of all things knitterly I have to say that I've been reading your blog for several years now and even had the pleasure of meeting you at a book signing while back (though sadly I was on cranky-baby duty for the end of your talk). Even though I don't knit, I always enjoy reading your blog and books because they're about so much more than making complicated knots. What I get out of your writing is more about the people involved and you have so much class and decency (not to make you sound too serious) that it's hard to understand why anyone would do something that vicious to someone so genuinely nice.

So short story long, keep on being an amazing human being and thank you for sharing your life with us!

P.S. I loved your Canada Day post.

Hi Stephanie! As an American (although not a super-great Christian) I can tell you that this person does NOT speak for the rest of us. I can tell how hurt and upset you are by this, but maybe you can look at it as a sign of how popular and fabulous you are? it's the real icons who get the crazy stalkers, you know?
Take care!
Katherine

Stephanie,

I've never posted to your blog before but just wanted to let you know that I've always enjoyed reading it and I'm so sorry to hear about all the horse puckey this woman has put you and your family through. I love your blog and have for a while. Why would anyone who didn't bother to waste the energy?

Erika

Dude.

That is all.

Stephanie, I am so sorry you have had to go through all of this. I find it hard to imagine such meanness. Just the other day I was telling a friend how much I learn from you that has nothing to do with knitting--like info on the Canadian government hiatus this past January, the relative value of clean diesel and hybrid autos, and your recent post re: BC and the monster living in the lake there. When all these topics have come up in other sources I have felt that I had some background based on the blog. Keep up the good work. Carol

To honor the request of somebody I respect greatly, I promise that if I see negative comments such as you describe, I will not respond. I will limit my outrage to private discussions with my wife.

Stephanie, I am as fond as one can be of somebody I don't actually know. I am not even a knitter, but you engage me always.

With unashamed great public affection to you, and all you are, and all you do.

As a friend once told me, it's not that it *takes* all kinds, it's just that we *have* all kinds...

Another first timer commenting in support. This American will never be offended by your obvious love of country. I am, however offended by ugly Americans.

I think my "favorite" part is about how all the respectable knitters are distancing themselves from you. Because, you know, you don't have just about every famous knitter in the free world about to get together for a big massive Sock Summit that 30,000 people tried to register for simultaneously. Right.
I'm a counselor in an American elementary school, and I make sure to talk about internet bullying with my older kids. It's very true what you said...people are willing to say so much more on the internet, because it can be anonymous. You don't have to see the other person's reaction. You can type, hit send, and then go on about your day, without having to think about how the person on the other end might feel.
I personally enjoy your posts about Canada. I enjoy learning about different cultures, and I don't feel that being a proud Canadian means that you're anti-American. I greatly admire the way you are handling this whole situation, and I hope that it dies down soon.

It's so depressing that she announces she's doing these terrible things to defend Americans. I vote to exile her to Antarctica, without any yarn.

Ditto to RachelH's comment. You are amazing! I'm so sorry you've had to deal with this.

Sorry this happening to you. Respect and admiration from New Jersey!

Hugs, love, and Light.

That kind of behavior is just inexcusable, especially towards a nice person like yourself. I have no tolerance for bullies myself, and refuse to feed trolls on the internet, because that's what this person is. Much love and light to you! And good for you for sticking up to her! (writing from TX, btw) :)

Sorry you are having to deal with such a person. I am an American, a Christian and a BIG fan of yours. It makes me so sad when someone such as her can give other Americans and Christians a bad reputation, please know that we are not all the same as this unreasonable unstable stalker (who I hope can be stopped and dealt with through legal means).
You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Stephanie, I am an American woman (Christian) living in Canada who knits and reads your blog everyday. I totally enjoy what you write, and have never found anything you wrote offensive. You're taking the right track--we'll all promise to ignore this wild woman, and just keep on enjoying you and your talents and wit!!!
Louise in Alberta

I appreciate your bravery and am sorry you've had to go through so much. Please continue writing. I enjoy reading your blog so much. Thank you for calling for respect and love in the blogosphere. I think it's possible. I'm sorry you're having to shoulder the burden for decent discourse at this time.

I read your post and my immediate response was "What the....?? How could someone spend so much time being a tool?"

I echo pretty much every other post that says keep doing what you are doing. We enjoy having someone as knitting obsessed as we are (even if we just lurk:)

good luck and remain awesome!

I'd like to second the suggestion to read "The Gift of Fear" which IIRC talks extensively about stalkers. Hang in there and stay safe!

I used to work for a congressman. This sort of thing used to come up everyday. She strikes me as a fairly lonely, and probably mentally ill individual. Best of luck to you (and her member of congress/senators - I'm willing to bet they get their fair share of her mail too).

oh my.
(((hug)))

One more previous lurker chiming in with love and respect from California--thank you for all the inspiration, laughter, tears, and insight you've given me over the years!

Wow. I wasn't aware that being proud of one's country and vocalizing that pride aloud automatically meant one was anti- all other countries. I imagine that would also come as a surprise to the rest of the country whose flag she's hiding behind so she can harass and abuse other people. See, I've read the Bible, and I don't recall the Hebrew god protecting the nation of America.

Speaking of scripture, I don't remember the part where Jesus tells his disciples it's okay to persecute anyone talking smack about their country, or even different gods. Was it somewhere in the Sermon on the Mount, after "blessed are the meek" and "the peacemakers" and "the merciful"? Or was it when Jesus stated that the second most important commandment was to "love they neighbor as thyself"? I'm not sure - it's such a long book! I'm probably just missing it somewhere in there among all the "forgive those who transgress against us" bits. But I'm sure that the lady in question is well aware of all this, being a good Christian and American as she says she is. I'm sure she'll set me straight.

Sorry you're having to deal with this; in my limited experience via other people's word-of-mouth and your efforts for a lot (a LOT) of different charities, organizations and causes, tells me that you are living a more "Christian" life than she is, as far as I can tell.

I am another U.S. citizen that is beyond shocked at this person's behavior. I am so sorry that this has happened to you. Please believe that to the majority of us US obsessive-knitting people you are an icon! And if we were to know each other personally,I bet you would be a damn fine friend too!

Stephanie, the way you are handling this (in a kind, calm, RATIONAL manner), shows the kind of person you are. Her clearly irrational behavior indicates her character as well. You are right; reacting to this kind of thing only feeds it, unfortunately. We all want to rush to your defense, but it would only make it worse in the long run. Please, PLEASE be careful. Please make this known to the legal authorities. We all love you dearly. Your wit has made my day lighter many times.

Dear Stephanie, I am an American woman (Christian) living in Canada who knits and reads your blog everyday. I totally enjoy what you write, and have never found anything you wrote offensive. You're taking the right track--we'll all promise to ignore this wild woman, and just keep on enjoying you and your talents and wit!!!
Louise in Alberta

Stephanie, I am so very sorry that you have to go through all of this. While I'm an American, I have an uncle who is Canadian. I personally love your Canadian day posts--it just makes me want to visit. Stay strong and hug the girls and Joe. Not all of us are quacks. I've learned so much from you blog. Susie from Columbus Ohio

Sending much love and light to you and your wonderful family (who could look at those amazing young women and doubt your parenting?). Also sending love and light to this poor, poor woman. May she find the strength to focus on her own life and problems for a while and be freed of the need to spew such darkness.

I tear up a little when I read this, as I know I could never handle a hurtful person as nobly as you are handling her. I hope with time she simply fades away. Don't take anything to heart!

Steph - I am so sorry you & yours have had this weighing on you for the better part of the past month. Don't ever forget how much Steve & I love you personally and professionally, how much our customers do (remember the 1200 that showed up and nearly caused a riot in the store?) and I can't speak on behalf of all Americans but I think a vast majority of American knitters pretty much think you rock the free freakin' world.

xoxo

kathy
webs america's (yeah AMERICA's) yarn store

Lots of hugs, smiles, and laughter being sent to you, your family, and your friends right now when you need them most. You've made me laugh right out loud and have lifted my day when it's been dark & dreary(we've all had those days). I am proud to be a Yarn Harlot fan from Massachusetts! (hey...can we get buttons / t shirts for that???) :D

You have this American's support. I may not always agree with what you say but as long as you hold to the boundaries of good taste (which you certainly have, Stephanie) you have every right to say it. Hold your head up high. You've done nothing to deserve this (or any)level of vitriolic attitude.

You mean Canada's not part of America?! I'm flabbergasted! ;)

For the record, I just started knitting seriously in the past year, picked up one of your books, and found it invaluable - and a bit reassuring to realize I wasn't crazy just because I liked to play with string. You've provided an invaluable service to so many people - please don't let one nutjob discourage you.

Oh, Stephanie. I am so sorry you are going thru this. Light overcomes darkness and Love is stronger than hate. This poor soul is obviously deeply disturbed, but to make you suffer because of it is awful. I pray she gets some professional help and you get some peace.

Unbelieveable. I'm so sorry you are having to go through this. As am American and a Christian I am embarrassed for this person. I am also concerned for you. We have laws to protect victims from stalkers...that's what she is. Protect yourself and your family and get the authorities involved.

Sending you hugs and prayers.

I am so sorry. I hate that she's an American. As an American myself, it embarrassing. But, don't listen to her, and don't listen to your inner voice (or at least not when it sounds like her), listen to us, your faithful readers and internet friends. We love you! No, really. WE LOVE YOU! And we are not going anywhere.

Just let me send this cosmic stinky fart in her direction.... all done.

You've got a 10-4 all clear from me!!

(ps, lots of love coming your way from your nutty Jacksonville girls)

This made me sick to my stomach. I'm so sorry you've been dealing with such a layer of humanity.

I'm sending some good vibes your way.

Also, thanks for being awesome in the face of adversity. You are a lesson in the art of grace.

Stephanie, I'm so sorry this is happening to you. You reach a really wide audience and when you reach so many people there is bound to be a sick one in there.

I'm glad you are talking to authorities. Keep blocking her IP address. I also would recommend not responding to her... ever again.

Oh honey, I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this. Folks who brag about being "Christian" and "American" contexts like these make both Christians AND Americans look bad.

But you can't fix crazy.

I'm GLAD you're proud of Canada. I'd think less of you if you WEREN'T. However, I have sense enough to know that when a Canadian is proud of their country, that doesn't mean that America is lessened thereby. Jeezopete -- who thinks that???

She should be glad you're not willing to unleash your minions on her. Something like this could happen:
http://consumerist.com/5322539/internet-trolls-trash-tardy-chest+thumping-monitor-shipper

Internet vigilante-ism can be scary. Better not to go there.

(And BTW, I'm lots handier than my husband too. But bless his heart, he's learning. I trust him with tools now, and only feel the need to supervise a little.)

Ugh--I have heard of this sort of behavior before but to read the words is still ugly and shocking. Please don't hesitate to get a restraining order.

I'm an American (and a pagan, the horror!) and live not far from the border. I LOVE Canada. It is an awesome place. I love your Canada Day posts. And I think you are totally awesome. Please don't let that little voice inside you run with these ugly words. Hold your head high and think of how many people are sending you love and light. As am I!

steph! you are a dear! funny, feminist, an excellent writer and a fantastic parent. Pay attention to the 276 good comments and not to the one crazy!

Wow. I am so sorry that someone from my country would accuse you of such things. I am the type of person who believes that it doesn't matter where someone comes from, it is only the caliber of their character that matters. This person is clearly a toxic person. The kind of person that sets out to destroy your ego in any way they can. I know she keeps rubbing Americans in your face as if we are all this way, but I know you've been here (and are coming here for Sock Summit) and you've met the kind of wonderful, supportive, and smart people who live, work, and knit here. I hope that you do not let this person get the best of you. We have never met face to face, but I know that you are a good person and no self righteous maniac should be able to take your self esteem away from you. I am not the praying type, so I will say this, I am sending good vibes your way. This too shall pass.

So sorry you're having to deal with this insanity. It's obvious you've done everything you can to handle this with class and dignity. Hope everyone else takes your lead. Love to you and your family.

Steph,

I'm embarrassed that this person is an American. One thing I can tell you is that she is NOT a Christian no matter what she thinks!

I enjoy reading your blog; in fact I check it daily. I’ve never been offended by anything that you’ve posted. I may not agree with everything but… you have the right to your opinion as much as I have to mine. And as far as being proud of your country, that’s great. I’ve learned a lot about Canada and would love to visit some of the places that you’ve posted about. Please don’t let this deranged person get you down. You are a gifted and talented writer and she’s probably jealous that she is not in your caliber.

Dear Stephanie,
As a Canadian living in the US, reading about all this just made me sad and tired. But, scrolling through all these supportive and loving comments, I`ve been heartened, and I expect you will be, too.
Thanks for your Canada Day posts, for reminding me of all the reasons why I love my `home and native land.` And thanks for bringing a little bit of Canada to Austin recently. You were, and are, awesome.

Just wanted to chime in (as a maybe one-time-ever poster, long time reader), that I think you're great! Funny, clever, smart as heck, and you write fabulous books and a fabulous blog. Americans for Yarn Harlot! Sorry that you are having to deal with the scary crazy lady. (((Hugs))) We all have the critical inner voice that is afraid of what others think of us. That woman does not speak for us.

Love and peace to you, from an agnostic (very nearly anti-American) American (not to mention all of the other horrifying things I am - black, queer, liberal, etc).

http://allwittyknitty.blogspot.com

What a horrible experience! I'm another reader from the US who is baffled at her accusations and horrified at her behaviour and threats.

The woman sounds very unbalanced and potentially dangerous.

I don't know what the laws are like in Canada, but when I dealt with an internet stalker some years ago in the US it was taken very seriously by law enforcement. I urge you to make sure her behaviour is fully documented with law enforcement both in Canada and the US -- both for your own protection and to get her the help she needs.

I'm sorry and embarrassed that she's an American. I love your writing - I was afraid you were going to say you were going to stop blogging. I think you should get some legal advice to see what can be done to stop her. Know that you have many, many fans and some of us are somewhat sane!

I'm another one that keeps up with your blog. I also have every single book of yours that's been published...and even the calender. I'm also an American and am just stunned, like everyone else, at the shocking behavior of this person. I sincerely hope you read each and every comment you've received here. They choked ME up with the support and caring and they weren't intended for me. It's obvious you are loved, Stephanie, by your family, your friends and certainly your fans. Stay strong, honey. You've done the right thing by letting those who love you know what you're up against.

I am so proud of you! I don't know how you find the restraint. A reminder to us all to try to be better people. Hang in there...sending you good thoughts and prayers (my God rolls like that!).

I second the book recommendation to read The Gift of Fear-- it has entire chapters dedicated to celebrity stalking and violence, and while I'm sure you think of yourself as a humble knitting blogger, you are also a very public figure. Frankly, her comments make her sound unhinged and dangerous, and it sounds like she's making not-so-veiled threats against you. Please be careful. And remember: it is not about you, nothing you did provoked this person. But you may be able to take steps to stop the situation from continuing to escalate. Please: read the book.

Just wanted to say - I'm an American and a Christian, and I am sorry and ashamed to see someone claiming to speak from both positions saying things that would make a true American, and a true Christian deeply ashamed. (I feel like *my* country has been misrepresnted by this person - ugh)

Stephanie, I have been a regular reader and rare poster to your blog for several years now and have all your books - you have given me many, many hours of pleasure and I thank you for every one of them. The Internet brings so many blessings in the ability to communicate widely. It is deeply depressing when someone uses that ability to express only hate.

Another "long time reader, first time poster" stepping forward to show my support and admiration!

Stephanie....

My heart goes out to you as I try to begin to grasp how painful this process must be. Another American Christian here who really enjoys every minute of the blog, including all of your Canadian posts. It's been such a pleasure to learn more about our northern neighbors--they just don't teach enough of it here in school. Many hugs and hopes for a swift resolution for this.

I'm so sorry, Stephanie. Sending hugs, love and everything else nice/supportive your way. I think you are one class act.

Okay, I'm all for shining the light and explaining what's happening. And I get that people are showing their support for you. But for all the commenters who think this woman is mentally ill, think again. She's a fanatic, but not necessarily mentally ill. As someone who is mentally ill, I resent the fact that you think this is what mentally ill people do. Guess what, we live and work right beside you and you wouldn't even guess we were mentally ill unless we told you, which we don't, because then you put us in the same category as this woman.

Stop calling her names, and call it for what it is. A highly fanatical person.

A proud American who is 100% behind you, Steph. I'll honor your request, and I'm so sorry you've had to go thru this...
(((((hugs)))))

Oh good lord...really? Who has the time and energy for this sort of nonsense? Thanks for letting us know what's up despite how difficult I know it was to throw it all open.

Dear Stephanie-

Like many other readers, I'm a lurker who is commenting for the first time to let you know how much I respect you. I only learned to knit this past October, and from nearly the beginning you have been part of my knitting experience. Your books make me laugh out loud, help me get through the heartbreaking projects, and your blog never ceases to entertain.

Thank you for sharing your life with me, and all your other readers. And thank you for being strong through all of this.

Much Love,

Hali

Stephanie,
I am SO sorry for what you've been going through! I am an American, and I have never felt patronized or insulted by ANYTHING you have said! I appreciate your talent, your humor, your love of knitting and your support of your fellow humans on this planet. Whoever this person is has some sort of mental issue (perhaps she's bipolar or schizophrenic), or lacks the intelligence to value the fact that we live on a planet with many various views, opinions, talents, etc. PLEASE keep doing what your're doing, because there's alot more love for you than this b@#&* will ever know! Sorry for the long post, but stalkers bring this out in me ;0)

Hey Stephanie

I don't know if anybody else I know could've stayed so tolerant under such treatment. You are a wonderful parent, knitter, writer, and human being, and it makes me sad when other people don't realize that.
Sending you good wishes and thoughts from California,

-Emily

Holding you in the light dear woman and a bit reluctantly will hold name removed in the light as well. Many many thanks for sharing so much life/love/humor with us. XOX!

To have so much anger is very sad and I'm sorry that she has made you her whipping girl. Nobody deserves that. Do NOT let it get you down - look at all these posts. I hope this person can eventually see that she is really only hurting herself and get some help, as this must show up in other aspects of her life as well.
Keep on blogging and writing and knitting. Big hugs!
Julie

Crazy comes in all nationalities, I'm so sorry to hear some of ours has chosen to inflict itself on you. Strength to you and your family from all who love you.

Wow. I will always hold firm my belief, that you are a far better person than I am. This just cements it. I would've sent nasty hate mail back, knowing full well it would just fuel the fire.. and when it got to this, I'd have pulled the plug on the blog and had a good cry. You however, have the Grace and Dignity and Strength that I can only hope to strive towards. How brave of you to put this all out here for us to read. I hope you had a beer and a lie down after. ((hugs))

Sending peaceful thoughts and love from down south in Alabama. Keep your head up and stay safe.

Stephanie, YOU are the best. Rising above this and acting like an adult, thank you for enlightening us so we will and do not feed this chicks demented mind. Please remember she is only one and there are tons of us out here with
GREAT respect and admiration.

We love you Stephanie. Like others have said, it's awesome that you are proud to be Canadian. Don't stop writing about it, especially not on Canada Day. Doing so does not make you Anti-American. If anyone were to write about how great the US was on the Fourth of July, they would have every right too, and it does not make that person a hater of every other country out there.
More than that, even if you were Anti-American, so what? Not everyone has to love the US. People who think so are delusional. I live in the US. I like living here, but I'm not so crazy as to think that everyone else in the world should love the US and it really does not bother me in the least if they don't. That's stupid. They SHOULD be patriotic about their own country and not give a rat's ass about the US.
If you wanted to write so-called, "Anti-American" comments on your own blog, go for it. Who are we to say different? It's your blog, do what you want. If people get offended, they are waaaay too sensitive.

I applaud your maturity and strength in this situation. You rock. Don't change a thing.

"Keep calm and carry on," as the Brits say... Sending lots of good vibes your way!

I hope this mentally ill person gets help and stops lashing out at you. Making this situation public was a good idea; I'm glad to send my support for you to stay strong in the face of this demon.

There is no limit to the crazy that can be found on the internet. It was bound to happen sooner or later, though that doesn't make it any easier. I am so sorry you are dealing with this, Stephanie. Know that your thousands of fans support you and love you and your writing. I personally don't plan on letting the lunatic ravings of an apparently mentally deranged individual keep us from supporting you!

WOW, unbelievable, someone needs to check themselves...

I would consider this harassment, and not only would I block her, I'd find a way to press charges.

Hugs.

Another person who is commenting for the first time. You inspire me by being sensitive and gentle with someone who is clearly unbalanced. Thank you for reminding me what it looks like to shine light.

Sending love from America.

That's horrible! I am so sorry you have had to go through this. We all love you so much and I can't imagine why anyone would do such a thing not only to you but to any other person. I am always amazed by the crazies of the world and the hurt they cause. Know you are loved and supported by your many, many fans!

Dear YH, just one more American knitter who wants to say YOU GO GIRL. You are handling this beautifully. Shame on her. I hope you can feel all the loving energy pouring your way!

To you, Stephanie, I send all my "Light, Love and Respect". To the woman that is bullying you, I can only send pity. What venom must be inside her that it spills out toward you in such a manner?

I look forward to your posts daily. You are such a giving person to share your life, your humour and your knowledge with us all. Today you share your immeasurable grace. You are handling this situation so much better than many would. A phrase I used the other day when dealing with a minor upsetting situation comes to mind "The air is sweet, clear and unpolluted when one walks the high road". I wish you much sweet fresh air and selfishly hope you continue to share your gifts with us all.

I think it is safe to say that I, and those that have commented will defend you in our hearts but refrain (per your wishes) to do so with our keyboards.

Brava, Stephanie! Another Christian American woman (just not an insane, obsessed one) who has long admired your work, and your honesty on the hard work of parenting. In fact, I may have to go buy another of your books, just because this woman has painted me with her crazy brush, giving "Christian American" a bad name. I hope the authorities are able to help, because no one should be able to cause so much hurt and problems and get away with it.
We stand with you, and we love you.

I can't for the life of me figure out how anyone could decide that quoting other people (including Americans!) have said about Canada, is somehow proof of your taking a rude and anti-American stance.

In my opinion, the woman is obviously demented as well as traumatized and ought to spend more time with her therapist and less time thinking about and writing to you.

I crocheted until I picked up one of your books at a yarn shop, and learned to knit because of your enthusiasm for it. I will always be in your debt for introducing me to knitting, which has become my dearest comfort in life. Thank you, Harlot. You're a classy and funny lady.

I agree with others, this individual is not well. There is never a time when vitriol such as this is warranted. I hope that someone who knows her and is aware of this situation may step in with some guidance.

And, to be truthful, if she is a "Christian" I think she must have skipped all the parts in the New Testament about Jesus. You know, that guy who was all about Love? Maybe she needs a refresher course or two...

What a brave strong woman you are.

For the record, the humor in your books works for me ;) I hope to see more of it, and soon!

Just know that this so called Christian American is a disgrace and is unfortunately loud enough to be heard and its this type of behavior that gives us a country a bad rep. :)

I am so sad and so sorry you are being treated this way. You and your whole family are in my thoughts and prayers. It is a sad symptom of our decaying society that people who achieve prominence are often the target of obsession and irrational anger.

I would also recommend you preserve a copy of each e-mail and each comment prior to deletion. Law enforcement might be interested. If at any time you feel frightened, I would speak to law enforcement and find out what your options are.

Love. Peace. And pudding. Everything is better with pudding.

I don't comment here normally but WOW! Just had to step up and let you know that I am, like many others who have posted, embarrassed that an american, a woman, or actually a being from this planet would be so hateful.

Sending you warm thoughts.

I want to thank you for the information and inspiration your blog and books have provided me. My favorite posts were about the wool stealing squirrel. The picture of a squirrel in a Fair Isle sweater just about made me fall out of my chair. And then the look in his beady little eyes when you solved the problem. Perhaps you should print the picture and keep it with your computer to make you smile. Hang in there.

Wow. Just wow. As an American and Christian, i can say that she's not a fair representative of the population. i love Your books and Your blog - and i admire Your patience and restraint. Hang in there!

First of all, as an American and a Christian, I've never been offended by anything you've written. In fact, I had missed the Canada Day post, and in reading it now, I found myself laughing out loud (ah, that Al Capone... quite the character).

I'm really rather ashamed that I share some commonality with this person. I'm also rather horrified that she calls herself a Christian woman with a sense of pride when she goes about writing such venom. I almost wish she could take a step back and see herself and what she's doing... but the self-righteous always seem to have fun house mirrors that never reflect themselves the way others see them.

The problem is hers and hers alone. Do what you can to block her way, but don't let it consume you. Most of us have been on the internet long enough to know a troll when we see one. I just wish you didn't have to deal with it in the first place.

One of the reasons I read your blog is the way you live your principles. Thank you for yet another example of walking your talk.

Also, please keep giving us a window into Canadian life.

What Rachel and Tina said. Good on yer, and you have, as always, my full-throated (or, in this case, silent) support.

WOWZA! What a nutjob that woman is. I always find it fascinating when people purport to be Christians and then attack others. As a lifelong Southerner, we have a great phrase that you might find some comfort in when you think of trying to reason with this woman, trying to communicate with her on a rational level is "like trying to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig."

Hey Steph,

You're everything I'd raise my kids to be, and all that I aspire to as a human being.

From all us homos in the U.S., hugs and feather boas. Mwah.

Oh wow. I am so sorry that this has been happening! As an American, I am utterly ashamed that this person could act in such a way. I know you know that not all of us are like that, but still! Honestly, her language and delivery sound very much like a family member of mine who has a mental illness. I'm behind you all the way!

What a horrible situation to find yourself in. There is some great advice here - especially about checking on ways to protect yourself and your family and to read "The Gift of Fear." Stay safe!

I am so sorry that you and yours have had to endure this. I don;t often comment but wanted to take this chance to thank you for sharing all your humor, stories and overall good nature with us. As an American (albeit of Alaskan origins), I've always loved your Canada Day posts.

Sending you thoughts of strength and light. :)

As a Christian and an American, I am broken-hearted about this harassment. I will pray for you, your family, and this woman.

This American is very sorry you're having to deal with this. Apologies.

Oh, dear, Stephanie. How awful that you have had to deal with this. I can only echo what others have said -- you are dealing with this with your usual grace and dignity. Thank you for continuing to write, and please, as others have also said, stay safe.

Oh, and that inner voice? It doesn't take much to trigger it. However, your many, many supporters, to say nothing of your publisher (and royalty checks!), and your many offers to speak all around the US should hopefully help put it back in its little locked box!

Big hugs from Cape Cod, MA!

I cannot let this pass without comment. Kudos to you, Stephanie, for your class, your grace under pressure, your well-thought-out responses and handling of the situation. I'm glad you've contacted the authorities...and that's all I'll say about that. Thank heavens you know that this woman does not speak for all of us south of the border. The loudmouths do not speak for us.

Thank you for the education we so desperately need about our closest neighbors! I adore your posts about Canada and feel like weeping for those among us who will never know the beauty of loving more than one country or culture.

Dear Lady-

Yet another US citizen who is horrified by the "person" harassing you. I have been reading your blog for nearly 2 years and it is one of the highlights of my day. Many a night I have stayed up reading your books and laughing to myself, much to the irritation of my non-knitting spouse. Please do not let this nut case stop you from doing what you love. Keep your family safe and yourself strong.

I'm Pagan and I hope you won't mind, but I'm lighting a candle tonight and asking my Matron Goddess, Brighid (who is the Celtic Goddess of the Arts and has a special affinity for wool workers, btw) to protect you and yours.

Blessings upon you,

Joan Keith of Southern California

Another lurker. Remember, for every mean, hateful person, there are about 25,000 who adore you and think you are awesome. You're popular for a reason, lady!

(big, non-creepy hug here)

Word.

P.S. You rock hard core, Stephanie. I don't know you in person, but I love you all the same.

Thank you for your openness and honesty. Thank you for loving your country publicly, and I apologize that one of my countrywomen has upset you this badly. I admire and appreciate your wit, your humour, and your writing.

I hope very much that you can enjoy the remainder of your weekend and as much time with your family as possible before heading to Portland for Sock Summit. I am unable to attend but can't wait to hear all the fantastic stories. I still hope to meet you in person one of these days.

We're all with you. The only explanation I can see for this kind of behavior is some form of mental illness, and I hope this person gets some help soon. Stand firm, and we'll stand with you. Love you!

Your blog is always a joy to read. I'm infuriated that you are being mistreated but I will follow your wishes. As an American I can say that you always make me laugh, teach me things (like what to do when my fiance burned his hand) and in instances like this inspire me to be peaceful. The way that you are handling this situation is noble and mature. I'm so sorry that you've been taunted and hurt by this person who clearly needs to fill a void in their life. I hope you know that many, many, many people that don't even know you love you a lot and wish you well. Keep your chin up.

How's the weather eh?

Mean people suck.

Emerging from deep lurk to send you my support! I am dumbfounded--truly dumbfounded-- by your experience, and admire your grace in a difficult situation. She certainly does not represent this Christian American. Hang in there sister!

Stephanie,
I am American from the southern Bible Belt, and am horrified by the troubles you are having. As my late mother would say, "That person obviously wasn't raised right."
As for the comments, I rarely read them, I'm truly more intersted in your words.

How sad - and scary. Please be careful. I hope all the positive energy in the comments helps you move away from this nastiness.

Just a lurker here. I am appalled that someone would do this to you - to anyone. I am so sorry you have to deal with this. Thoughts, prayers and good vibes coming your way to help you deal with this.

Peace,
Jo Anne of Massachusetts

Oh. My.

Speaking as a (hopefully) sane American, I can't say that I've ever felt that you've spoken badly of us at all, or of any other country out there. Individual people? Well, once or twice you've pointed out some quirky foibles, but that's fine with me. (You even treated that airline that wouldn't let you board because of a hyphen with more respect than they deserved.)

Don't let ridiculous people get you down. I agree, keep copies for documentation purposes, but otherwise? Enjoy the pudding.

And--the fact that she sent you an apologetic email about her grammar because she was in such a rush? I find that endearingly creepy.

I am ashamed that this person is American. I love the pics and hearing about Canada. I have read your blog daily for a number of years and I think you are one of the nicest people I have never met :o) Keep your chin up, we love you!!!

I am also emerging from deep lurk to send my support.

Dear Yarn Harlot,

I am also one of the many long-time-readers-first-time-commenters; I wanted to speak up and say that like other Americans who have commented so eloquently before me, I am terribly embarrassed by this woman's behavior. I am embarrassed as a woman, as an American, and above all else, as a (presumably) fellow knitter. As you encounter so much crap from this person, please keep all of us fans in your heart, and remember how much the rest of us appreciate you and your yarny-goodness.

Like many other posters this is my first comment on your blog, I have been following it for awhile and have always enjoyed it as humorous and insightful. I often read your posts out to my partner as he enjoys your sense of humour as well.

All I can say is I am so sorry that this person has become fixated on you like this and what a terrible experience to go through. You have dealt with it more calmly and rationally than I would have in the same situation and I do hope that there is something that can be done permanently so you do have to deal with this sort of thing again.

Wow. I am totally shocked. Even if you guys did exchange fiery emails, she really stepped over the line.

As a Texan and an American I can assure you I've never read one of your blog posts that have offended. We are CERTAINLY not like all like that. That's just absurd.

I can tell you that many of our fellow have citizens, as many people in the world have become, are very angry, very entitled feeling and very desensitized. Yesterday I was driving when a big truck tried to run my small family off of one of the tallest bridges in our city. It is literally huge. My husband was in the back seat and my baby was in the car seat. We almost died. Everywhere I go people are hateful and rude. I've almost been beat up in the grocery store and I live in a very nice little town. Completely unprovoked.

I am scared of this attitude, as it is incredibly intolerant and it is the mindset of an incredibly fanatical person. She sounds very dangerous. I don't think she's mentally unstable, I think she's harassing you purposefully to gain publicity for herself. I Googled her blog, it is SO easy to find. She is probably getting mega hits. What a shame.

You're right to be concerned, she's threatening you. You should send her comments and threatening emails to the police. I wouldn't take it lightly at all.

That woman is trying to ride the coat tails of your success. I'm so sorry you're having to deal with it.

I'd like to know what she expects your fan base to be, if 30,000 knitters tried to attend the sock knitting conference you are coordinating (with other partners of course -- can't leave out the teams!). Every city you go to, people flock to see you. You're coordinating one of the most-talked about knitting conferences, with big-time knitters coming to teach (apparently, though, they aren't respectable! I wonder how Barbara Walker is going to feel to learn she's not longer respected?). I love reading your blog. I check it multiple times daily to see if your post is up. I love your books -- all of them -- and I can't wait for the next one. I love your 2009 calendar and am looking forward to my local bookstore receiving 2010 so I can stare at the box in anticipation of January 1. I love your Canada Day posts, because you're so passionate about your country. There are plenty of Americans out there whose ideas I don't agree with and am baffled by. I hope you know you have friends south of the border and we don't all share this woman's views. Thank you for sharing this with us, so we understand if and when an inflammatory comment appears. You have the respect and admiration of so many people. Please don't forget that.

I don't even know where to begin. When my kids were younger and would come home from school with a tale of how some other kid wronged them in some way, I used to say "I have enough trouble explaining my own behavior, let alone anyone else's." Clearly, it is impossible to explain (let alone justify) the vindictive tirades that you have been enduring.

When the happy hoards descend upon Portland (me included), I hope you and Tina and your army of helpers look around for a minute or two and really take a moment to appreciate what you have all created. It's about so much more than knitting or shopping. All you have to do is read some of the topics on the Ravelry group to see that you and Tina have helped foster an amazing generosity and camaraderie among knitters of every stripe (no pun intended). So many thousands of people were just looking for an opportunity to come together because of YOU. You touch thousands of readers every day with wit, insight and real life. Let's see who wants to be part of something that is created by that hateful, spiteful, irrational woman.

That was good for me. Hope it was good for you :-).

My stomach started hurting as I read your blog. I am so sorry to hear that you have become the target of this person's rage.

I wish you the strength to carry on despite her. Take care.

So sorry you have to deal with this (especially when you have enough stress already). Be safe and if there are "blog" police get a restraining order. Hugs.

Don't know what to do other than send a donation to knitters without borders. Mailing the check tomorrow. Combating ugliness with a little bit of good.

Wow. I'm just stunned. I'm so sorry you've been having to deal with this while managing the Sock Summit organizing/planning too. Ugh.

Keep on doing whatever you have to do to keep yourself safe and sane. We'll all still be here cheering for you, wishing you all the best and toasting you with our beers.

*huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuug*!

Wow, psycho. I am so, so sorry. This lady obviously has some mental health issues that are not being addressed. And out of all the countries to hate on, Canada, seriously? :-) She is probably just jealous.

The process is different depending on what state she's in, but you would quality to get a restraining order against her.

Maybe you should lock your blog down and make comments moderated for awhile? Eventually she'll go away. Had fun meeting you at McMins a couple weeks ago (I was the one crocheting a skirt, ha ha) and like I told Tina, I'm happy to help with any IT stuff.

Stephanie,

You have brought so much joy to my life with your blogs, books and calendar. I have learned much from your blogs and books not only about knitting but about Canada and so many other things. I had the pleasure of hearing you speak in CT a couple of years ago with my mom and we had a blast.

Unfortunately there are those who spend their time spewing viciousness rather than trying to make positive change. You have shown that if we work together much is possible and great good can be accomplished.

Peace and hugs to you and yours. Can't wait for SS09.

Thanks for all you do and have done

Marie

As a Michiganian who used to go south to Windsor to drink, I barely considered that it was a seperate country. Hell, we even have a Canadian born Governor now.

But I digress. Hang in there. This woman doesn't know what true grit is or she'd put her energies towards something more possitive, like solving the health care crisis....

Sending prayers for peace for you and your family.

I am sorry you are going through this. I don't think it is very christian to use words like that let alone behave like that. This American really likes you and enjoys your books. Although I do not know you (as in real life met you) from what I read you seem very funny and nice. The way you still protect this woman's identity speaks volumes to your character. I hope she leaves you alone.

Oh, my, I'm so sorry you've had to deal with this horrible bully. Honestly, this seems worse than bullying because this person simply isn't well. She simply doesn't seem to a mentally or emotionally healthy person. It's so sad to see.

Hang in there. Know that there are many, many people cheering you on. I am so thankful that you continue to write for us.

I'm someone else who never posts but reads frequently. I'm so sorry for you, and in a way for her too, because she is clearly crazy. Mentally not healthy, and needs help. Someone once obsessed this way about someone in my family, and it was difficult. Not engaging is the route my family members took that was most helpful. Best wishes to you.

I haven't read all the 300+ comments, so maybe someone else has might have already suggested this, but have you considered holding all the comments for review before publishing any of them? I know it would be more work for you, but maybe someone (your husband or Ken maybe) could shoulder some of the load. Then her comments never would see the light of day no matter how many times she changed her IP address as you would never "approve" them for publication.

Also, it might not hurt to make a public statement that you have someone else reading the comments before you do (if you can), and that you'll never actually see what she's writing. Then either she'll give up when she realizes that you never even see what she writes or she'll keep writing but you'll never see them anyway so they won't upset you. You can block her on twitter, too, and I'm not sure what there is to be gained by reading her blog - leave that to someone else, as well, if you think it necessary for your safety.

I can only imagine how upsetting it is to have someone attacking you, but I cannot believe that her blog and/or tweets will have any substantial impact on your popularity.

Best of luck.

Stephanie, sweetheart! I'm so sorry this is happening to you! I know you know this, but this person does not speak for Americans, nor for Christians, nor for any sane segment of the population. I love my country, I also love Canada (heaven knows I've vacationed there enough) and have yet to figure out hatred like this can be rationalized. I truly hope that the authorities find this person and deal with her appropriately.

You are a delight, your writing is terrific and we love you!

See you in Portland.......

Dear Stephanie, just remember you have many, many friends and a wonderful family to support you. Thank you for sharing with us as this is something that you should not carry or deal with alone. Make sure you are hugged every day.

Keep smiling :-)
Marian

Holy crow, I'm at a loss for words...

Sending love and hugs from the Maritimes.

I am so sorry that you are having to deal with this horrible person, especially with as much as you must have going on right now. Please know that it's her problem, not yours, and the rest of us out here reading your blog support you 100%. You rock!

Be careful, but don't be afraid. She's a fearmonger.

Stephanie: You are not alone. I belong to an email list for a well-known Canadian folk singer. Years ago, and I can't even remember the reason why now, two of the posters took exception to something I said and started a holy row. They even took it upon themselves to start a rival "I hate Sheila" list. Some of the email they sent me was a lesson in the creative use of the the word f***. I was told to f*** myself and so many four legged animals that they must have broken out a zoological text book to find them. And I'm sure some of the things they told me to do are physically impossible. I think I may have kept some of the emails just because they were astonishing in their quest to hurt and humiliate me. It's all very funny now, but back then...no, it was even kind of funny then.

I can't imagine what you are going through but taking the high road is always the best course of action in these matters. I know that it's very difficult but finding humour in it will help you through. No matter what, you are a wonderfully funny and compassionate human being and nothing or no one can change who you are except you.

Much love and chocolate.

Stephanie: As a long time reader and rare commenter, I want you to know that your post today saddened me. You do so much to bring laughter to the world (or at least the knitting community) and have done so much to bring us together, and then someone like this comes along and causes such hurt. I hope that she moves onto another cause soon and leaves you alone. For the record, my father was born in Canada and my kids take great pride in having Canadian blood in their veins. Again, I hope you can get this all behind you in time to enjoy the much anticipated Sock Summit. We love you!

Keep your chin up, Harlot! For what it's worth, this American thinks you're great!

You are an amazing woman Stephanie and I feel honored to share this world with you. I am so sorry that this is happening to you. Know that I am standing with you and shining the light.

Wow.

Just wanted to add my support to these many many voices.

You are loved, and no one deserves this.

((hugs))

And be safe. Please be safe.

As am American, and a woman, and a quote unquote Godless Heathen, this disgusts me. That someone can be so vitriolic, so irrational, as to take anything that you say and twist it, turn it, manipulate it into some sick fantasy where it is "all about her"? And to hide it under Patriotism, and the best part, a religion that preaches forgiveness? Yeah, right. She's doing you a mitzvah, all right. Showing you (and everyone else) that she's BATSHIT INSANE.

I'm a huge fan, your stories and words have moved me to tears - both as heartbreak and laughter. Please know there are people out there who can not only act like adults on an "anonymous" forum such as the internet, but stand by you, even when you're both strangers. Take heart, Stephanie.

WOW! As an American I humbly apologize. I find it rather embarrassing to share the same nationality with such a person. I certainly do not feel this person is a fair representative of our Christian faith!
I've enjoyed your posts for some time now, and look forward to the new ones. I find you to be inspirational, in that you took something you loved and was able to make a career of it. I often visit your posts when I feel lonely...it's like visiting an old friend.
I hope this person won't ruin things for the rest of us who enjoy you. I tire of having things that I enjoy ruined by others that can't seem to have a life of their own...ranting and raving until the priviledge is taken away. I really enjoy you and pray that she won't run you off.
Hugs and know you have a huge following that adore you!
Mary

Much love and support from a Michigan neighbor.

My apologies from all the sane Americans who love your blog. It's embarassing that someone so obviously unbalanced claims to be a Christian and an American, and uses that platform to be so rude and hateful.

This American loves you, your books and your blog. Keep on keeping on and I will keep on reading you in any form I can get. See you at the Summit.

Job well done Stephanie. I hope the support and love of The Blog can help compensate for the "difficult" people out there in the internet ether.

Like many of the above, I, too, am a long-time reader, first-time commenter. I just wanted to show my Texas-sized support. Don't let the crazies get you down.

I want to thank you for inspiring me to knit more. I've attempted to pick up knitting and I have been lucky enough to come across a few knitting blogs that have helped me a lot. I have actually finished a number of projects (more looked pretty good too) and now I'm going to be a life long knitter. I hope to read and be inspired by your writting for many years to come. :)
Thank you again. :)

As a Christian,conservative, gun-owning,American, woman who owns copies of all of your books, I just want to say, I love you and am hoping and praying for the best possible outcome from this awful situation.

Standing by, flashlight aloft, adding to the light.

Stephanie,

So sorry you have had to endure this. You have so many people who think the world of you. Don't listen to this person's comments for a second. I so look forward to reading your blog each day as do thousands of others. Hang in there. Sending you resilient thoughts.

I'm very sorry to hear that someone is treating you so terribly. Please try to focus on how many of us out here in the knitting world appreciate you both as a warm and kind individual and for your contributions to the community, and I hope that your harasser finds a more productive use of her time very soon.

This is one sick person. You're best to add her e-mail address to your spam filter and not even look at her e-mails. I really enjoy your posts. Keep on blogging, don't let the comments of one person get you down. Too many people are on your side.

Your officially famous. You now have a stalker. I don't think I've ever heard you say anything anti-(noun). Your vegetarian yet never say anything to those of us who eat meat. Your a lot of things and yet never say anything to make the other person feel wrong or yourself better at the expense of others ego. It's a hard act to follow.

Stephanie-You have a gift. Keep sharing it. This person has no power and no manners.
Keep the faith!

Another long-time reader, but infrequent commenter here. I'm also another American who is appalled at this person's behavior - and ashamed that she is dishonoring her country with that behavior. I love reading your blog, and learning about your corner of the world. Thank you for being you, and for sharing with the rest of us.

Love you. Keep going.

I am also an American - one who is waiting in anticipation for your next book. I am so sorry that you have to deal with someone like this. There is no excuse for such behavior.

Anytime your political views have shown through on this blog, they have always been presented in a thoughtful and non-slanted manner. Your comments about the world at large have been very intelligent and positive.
You are so kind and gracious. And you ARE VERY BRAVE to ask the blog for opinions on things like parenting and hampers!
Your books are hilarious. I've read them all several times. Except the latest - which I'm SAVORING. I feel so fortunate to be able to read this blog for free - what wonderful art and entertainment for all of us at your expense.

Stephanie, I salute you. You have a circle of knitters standing around you, ready to ignore the bejeezus out of that person.

Dear Stephanie,

First—as others have said, be sure to report everything to HER ISP, as I am sure they don’t want to be held liable for her. Also, in the States we’ve got some stiff laws on hate crimes now. I think since she appears to hate you for being a different nationality, her stalking behavior falls under that and she could be heavily prosecuted. It’s worth looking into.

Second—I’m an American military veteran who absolutely does not support this woman or her use of her nationality in any way. You’re delightful, funny, kind, and a fantastic blogger and writer. Because of you, I was brave enough to branch out from crochet and try this knitting thing, since it was something you were so obviously passionate about.
Even when I was ranting about the “lie of only two stitches”, and staring in horror at a laddered section of work, I would go back and read your blog, and remember, “she LOVES this thing. You’ll get it.” And now, I DO get it.

Because of you, I am about to cast on for my first pair of socks, which I’ll knit two at a time on circs. I’ve learned about mathematical knitting, and given impassioned speeches to family members about sock architecture and moebius knitting. I’ve learned so much and talked about it so passionately to my family and friends that my mother did something unexpectedly wonderful this Easter. She sent me an interchangeable needle kit—this is a big deal for us, as she’s never believed me to be “artsy” and this was a huge piece of affirmation.

Oh, and something that is DEFINTELY, entirely your fault-- this year, on my birthday, I bought a drop spindle and some lovely wool, and I have several yards (meters?) of rapidly improving yarn.

Your blog has brought a lot of good into my life when I needed it. I think this is the second time I have posted in your comments, but it’s definitely worth a delurk. My thoughts and best wishes are with you and your family.

I am so sorry for the icky-unpleasantness you have had recently. Happily, the comments show that there are so many pleasant people out there, and it doesn't seem to matter which side of the imaginary lines that separate countries they live on.....

Thanks

Geez...........Stephanie! This is awful!
She sounds like she is more then a little WACKO!!
I think the whole thing is kinda scary.

If she dislikes you so much, and finds you to be so damn offensive, why doesn't she just quit reading your blog???? DUH!!!!!

Sounds kinda like a crazy friend I had years ago and told to get the hell outta my life.

I am so sorry you are going thru this.
I'm American and think you are funny, talented and a wonderful Mom and a wonderful human being!!
Just remember for every crazy out there, there are at least 5,000 fans and supporters!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us-TVg40ExM

Wow. The crazy-pants are strong in that one.

I'm sorry you have to put up with this shit. I hope she gets the help she clearly needs.

LET THE SUN SHINE IN!

Way to be the bigger person, Steph.

Just one more supportive comment for you. I am in the US and have never found any of your Canada Day posts discriminating and while I don't see how anyone else could, we're obviously not dealing with a rational woman here. I read your blog because you're funny, I read your books because you're funny and even though I am more of a crocheter than a knitter, I have never felt the need to slam your blog. I am sorry that you are being attacked and that it is affecting you in too many ways and in too many aspects of your life. This woman is filled with so much hate and must not have anything to do other than spew hate at someone who does not deserve any bit of it. Keep your head held high, and be proud that you have been a lady about the whole thing (although I'm sure some thoughts in your head were less than ladylike, we'll keep that our secret). Your fans are here for you!

*HUGS*

Have a beer, knit your blanket, and know that the one bad apple won't spoil the barrel.

I agree with the 59-bajillion commentators above me. This woman is clearly insane, and does not, in any way, represent what Americans or Christians think of you!

Just wanted to add one more thing..."Don't try to rationalize the irrational" is a mantra I repeat to myself when I experience things I can't explain.

Another long time reader, fan of your books, American, and someone who live as a Christian. That woman does not or she could not write what she has. She obviously needs some mental help. Let's hope she gets some. Sorry she decided to pick on you, you don't deserve it. Look forward to seeing at SS09.

Just wanted to add my support to all that you're getting. People like this seem to be coming out of the woodwork all over the US and it's kind of frightening. So much venom being spewed all over the place. Clearly this woman is deranged. Ive been reading your blog for years now and you are clearly a good person, a great parent and a proud Canadian. I've been to two of your events and have run into in coffee lines several times at varous fiber fests. And gee, whiz! You don't have horns or a tail!

Your handling of this just adds to my admiration for you. Knit on!

Bo: YOU have a (bizarre, mentally unstable) problem with HER. It is not HER responsibility to "relent" and make you stop. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO GROW UP.

I thought Canadians were Americans. Holding you in my heart. An ordained Christian minister who thinks that light, love, and respect "will preach" as we say in my line of work.

Unbelievable. Hugs to you, Stephanie.

Yet another first time poster. Hugs to you and your family, this is just mind boggling!!! What to say........thank you Stephanie.

I'm just echoing to the comments above. You have done so much good for so many people. On Monday(after I get paid) I will send a donation to MSF via KWB, in honour of your goodness, fairness, humour and wisdom, and of your willingness to share yourself and your family with the world, which is truly brave.

I wish I could buy your books a second time. I am a liberal atheist American. This woman doesn't speak for me as an American. I am horrified that she is embarrassing the country I love by attacking Canada and you. I love visiting Canada, BTW. You have a beautiful and hospitable homeland. I am thrilled you love your country as much as I love mine.

Great gods and little fishies! what a nutcase. So sorry you have to deal with the nutcase. Go hug the girls and the crew and have a beer. There is no reasoning with crazy, especially one who never learned to respect people she disagrees with. (people like that are no fun. even less fun in person, if that's possible.)

FWIW, I grew up on the Canada/US border, and I saw absolutely nothing to be offended about in the Canada Day posts (well, unless one is offended by someone else's pride in their country).

Then again, she may have been jealous, and as a 'christian' was trying to transmute her envy into something not a deadly sin. :) {yes, I know, crazy has no logic; but I *know* people like that -- I'm jealous of this, but I can't be because that's a deadly sin, so I'll recast this so that it's *your* fault and I am now sin-free and bound for the Promised Land.}

(She sounds like she's really off her nut. And honestly, it's "christians" like that give all the decent ones a bad name.)

Sounds to me like you have a psycho stalker on your hands. I hope you are staying in contact with the authorities, and are taking all necessary means to protective yourself and your family. Think of all the celebrities that have been stalked. Now you can add your name to the list. Just what you had in mind. lol

Dear Stephanie,

I am also a first time commenter. I got your first book last year and enjoyed it so much that I now check your blog on a daily basis. I also mention you to all my craft friends and was recently very excited when I friend of mine returned from the US with a signed copy of your latest book.

I do have a confession to make...I'm actually a crocheter, but am starting to learn how to knit and when I finish this post I'm going to knit on my scarf a bit and send you some positive vibes from down here in the Southern Hemisphere (Australia)!

Keep your chin up, you give so many people so much happiness, joy and inspiration.

Karin

Stay safe, Stephanie.

I hope you blocked her email IP address as well.

Peace.

I've been reading a while now, but never commented. I had similar problems with someone I encountered on a music forum. She stalked and harassed me via email and social networking sites. I dealt with her by totally and utterly ignoring her, by refusing to acknowledge her existence. This may work for you, too. If not, and your stalker persists, talk to your local police. She has no right to harass and menace you like this. Good luck - I hope you shake off that crazy person soon - and permanently.

WOW!

She sure has a misguided sense of self importance! She's a TROLL and should be ignored accordingly.

I LOVE your blog and have been reading it for years, but I'm Canadian, does that count? :-)

Stephanie, I am physically sick after reading that this has happened to you. I for one, will do as you ask, but don't take silence for a lack of support. And she certainly does not speak for THIS American. Love to you and yours.

I am an American. She does not represent me. We are not all like her. She's a sad person and she has my pity. But not my sympathy.

Keep on doing what you are doing and don't let her silence you.

What this woman is doing to you is harassment and, quite frankly, is illegal here in the US. Unfortunately being in Canada your legal options might be limited. If you were in the US you could quite easily get a restraining order to keep her away from you physically and prevent her from contacting you under threat of arrest. But what you CAN do is contact her ISP as she is most likely in violation of the terms of service she agreed to when signing up for her Internet service.

You have her IP address and by this point I assume you know her name. Most ISPs will have an abuse email address at abuse@domain.com so you can try reporting her there.

Best of luck dealing with the dregs of American suckitude.

Stephanie,
I saw you speak this last fall in Jacksonville. I was proud to stand up with a poster welcoming you along with my friend Kim who remains "hot for the harlot." Drag Kim's poster out from behind the desk. Look at it, remember we love you.
I host an online horse forum. I have received emailed threats, ugly posts and even contact from a lawyer. I just keep trucking along because what else are you going to do?
Keep on keeping on and remember, don't feed the trolls :)
Tricia

I normally don't post, just read, smile and keep knitting - but this is beyond the pale! By taking the higher road and not condescending to this person's level, you are winning on many levels. Your Good Karma is intact and even tho I'm sure all this upsets you, you really ought to be able to sleep well at night.
I actually think I know this person - a clear cut psycho if ever there was one.
Remember what Elizabeth taught us - knit on, thru all crises, with confidence & hope. Maybe cast on for a pair of tight winter slippers?!

I'm an American, a Christian, a Knitter, and I'm very sorry for the hateful, mean-spirited behavior of this person. I enjoy your Canada Day posts. I enjoy visiting Canada. (Such clean washrooms. And I like the word "washroom". Very civilized.)

If you feed a troll, she'll only get fatter.

I'm so sorry you've had to live so long with such toxic messages. I feel even sorrier for the poor soul who is spewing them at you. She needs healing.

For you, I want to give you affirmation. I think you are an amazing woman, mother, wife. You are something special. I know lots of people have said it before, but maybe, just now, you need to hear it a lot more. Love to you Harlot. You've taught me lots and I look forward to learning more.

I am so truly sorry that your wonderful blog and the gift of your time and humor to all of us has been a source of upset and worry for you.

People are known by their acts and not by what they label themselves. I can't think of more unchristian or unamerican acts than the behavior you have described.

Be strong and know that you an icon in the knitting world and our hearts.

I can hardly find the words to say in this situation. I too am a person who reads often and comments rarely, but this post left me with such emotion that I could not move along without attempting to convey my support for you. One of the things I've always loved most about knitting and about knitters is that we don't have to all agree on any one thing to exist peacefully as a community. We are all nationalities, all ages, all beliefs, etc. Good for you for taking the higher ground in this circumstance. Please don't consider it any resemblance of a surrender on your part for having to share this struggle with your blog readers. I think you'd be hard pressed to find a single one of us who haven't had an experience with a bully before. I'll be contributing to the cause by hitting to proverbial "Ignore" button on any of her comments that make it through.

Holy freaking cow.

I am so sorry, Stephanie. I wish I could give you the biggest hug.

I'm at such a loss for words over this troll, I just....wow.

Darlin Harlot, I've not known about you for long, though once I found your blog I read everything in a week.
With this kind of bull happening I could see how you could let it bother you. Though I think that would be a waste of energy. Threats are always unpleasant, and vicious veiled threats have a way of seeming bigger than they are.
But look at how many people support you vs. how many try to tear you down. Look to your friends and family for support. Let the good outweigh the bad. All the platitudes are a bit trite... but true none the less.
By the way I'm a Texan, non-religious, and saddened that you have been pushed to a breaking point

I guess this means the knitting world has hit the big time: the first knitting celebrity stalker.

What do other celebrities do about their stalkers?

I'm a Canadian who has lived in the US for 10 years. One thing I've learned about Canadians is that we don't have a clear enough perspective to define ourselves and our national identity (you know, living in the shadow of a giant and all). It sometimes seem the only way to tell people what it means to "be Canadian" is to tell them what it doesn't mean (i.e., "not American").

Your post today is quintessentially Canadian: it shows a firm viewpoint but calls for calm and peace.

I'm so sorry that some nutcase has decided to target you. And in reading through all this again, plus a few posts on Ravelry, this person sounds more and more like someone who is totally eaten up with jealousy. She's probably quite a failure in her own life, and is making herself feel better by attacking you, who is anything but. What she is doing is illegal, and I'm adding my vote that you should spread it all out before your local police, an attorney and her ISP. I'm betting she just might find herself without internet service. Now wouldn't that be poetic justice! Please stay safe and keep up the wonderful writing.

As an American, I have never felt insulted or slighted in the least by your enthusiasm for Canada, and I have often enjoyed your blog enough to share it with other Americans who also felt only amusement at your sense of humor.

How your blog could be so thoroughly misconstrued is inexplicable. Oh well, knit on, and hope she soon gets the mental help she needs. (and by the way, I felt sure that one is not a Christian unless one behaves like a Christian... maybe she's misconstruing that, too.)

Non-knitter who thinks you are the bee's knees. Most service providers have a clause that their networks cannot be used to send threatening or libelous material. So it should be possible to get malicious comments stopped at the source rather then worry about it at your end of things. Haven't read through all 300+ supportive comments to see if someone else suggested this.
Blessings

I'm sitting here enjoying a beer and reading your blog from Atlantic Canada...and I am gobsmacked!

I agree with the others that have mention it, but I think you need to contact the authorities.

Lots of love and good vibes!

Wow. I'm so very sorry that this person has taken up residence in your little corner of joy. Take care and be safe.

I'm just going to add my voice to the hundred above me saying that this woman does not represent how Americans feel about you. I personally find you inspiring and delightful. Your love of knitting is infectious and I will continue to buy your books, read your blog, and be a fan.
Please keep writing and knitting. Stay strong because you're one fierce Mama!

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I rarely post but want you to know I admire your spirit and the way you've responded with respect and courage to this horrible attack. As a citizen of the U.S., I'm frustrated that this woman is using her twisted idea of patriotism to cloak the crazies. (And let's not even get started on her "Christian" behavior.) Of course, it's not working so well since the nut vibes are broadcasting loud and clear. ;-)

Your good nature and humor has made me a loyal reader and I'm saddened that someone would want to make your work so much more difficult. I'm grateful that you didn't just close the comments as so many would just to stem the tide.

I think I'll go make a Doctors Without Borders donation now.

PS: I thought your story about Joe being stuck in the truck was terrific and hilarious. Being able to laugh at ourselves in sticky situations is a gift -- and one that you do a wonderful job fostering.

Wow...this has nothing to do with her being American or being Christian; it has to do with her being a bully and a harasser. I hope you are exploring legal options for dealing with her.

And if I ever move from my current US residence, it will probably be to Toronto...great public transportation, actual health care, and lots of great knitters like you? What's not to love?

Love. Hugs. And a hope the taste of all her bile gets washed out quickly.

As others have said, I'm pretty proud to be American (hades, Daddy - yes. I'm almost 30 and he'll be daddy until I die, its a southern thing - is a retired Marine. How could I be anything BUT proud) and I'm just as deeply ashamed to read one of ours is making us look bad. Like more than a few other voices on here, can I just say I hope you'll believe we're not all so rude?

You've made some really hard times in my life a lot easier to walk with your humor and your joy in the craft. Thank you for that.

Ah, Steph. The price of being a celebrity is to have really weird and scary people think that they know you and that they have the right to judge you. Your stalker is obviously someone who has no real knowledge of the world.
I look forward to finally meeting you in Portland, after all of these years. Good on ya for telling.

Yarn Harlot - I am so sorry to read about this person - it is really hard in the world of the internet for some people to be resonable, actually in the world full stop. Basically it is your blog and you can say what you want!

I recommend lots of knitting, lots of tea and/or beer and the company of the ones you love.

and please keep on doing what you do as a long long time lurker it brings a samll ray of sun into my day when I read your blog

Peace, love, and respect to you - sending only good thoughts your way as you deal with such an undeserved and unreasonable ordeal.

Well, here's another American (from Maryland) who thinks you're pretty terrific. I'm so sorry you've had to deal with this truly Ugly Person. If she's not mental (and personally, I think she has more than a few screws loose), she at least needs a course in Manners and Etiquette 101. Hang in there -- you're by far the better person.

I think this was an excellent post, and I hope the rest of your readers take your words to heart. No one should have to put up with something like that. :(

I am so sorry this is happening to you...I love your wit and humor and, of course, the knitting...knitting is suppose to be peaceful and bring everyone together.

Have you looked at the legal aspects of this?? Aren't there laws now on cyper-stalking and bullying??? Perhaps this is the only way to get this person to stop...

Just know you have many, many fans...and AMERICANS who love you and enjoy you...I hope you can concentrate on this...we are on your side.

A bit of this happens to all of us...it's happened to me and it's hurtful and it wears you down...

Believe in yourself and know you are a gleaming light in many of our days when we read your blog and your books...I know I laugh at your lines and it brings me up and makes my days...

Take care and I hope it stops soon...rising above it is the only way...

hugs,

Jacqueline

What a stinker. I have no words for how much she does not represent women, Americans, knitters, or any other group to which she and I may both belong.

Stephanie, you are a joy and a wonder to read. Even when you are down on a subject, whatever that subject may be, you do it with laughter and love.

And 99.999% of your readers love you back.

I'm so sorry you've had to go through this, and I wish I could wave a magic wand (needle?) and make it go away.

I am an American, a Christian, and behind you all the way. I am so sorry you are having to deal with this deranged woman. I'll be praying for your safety and that she'll get the help she so obviously needs. And by the way, I have never once felt like you disparaged the US or any of its citizens.

And I just love that Magnolia dubbed you "the Julia Child of knitting." That's wonderful!

Just the fact that over 400 people care and have taken the time to encourage you, should encourage you.
I too am so sorry that someone who has bought so much enjoyment to so many, has to go through something this ugly.
Keep on being you, please.

Much love to you today, Stephanie! She sounds like a nutter, and I'm not sure what on earth she was reading to get the impression that you're so "anti-American". I've been reading you for several years, seen you in person (just once so far), and not once have I ever thought like that. A person can certainly be proud of their country without disdain for all others. You put so much heart into your blogs, speeches, etc, so much of yourself shines through in everything of yours that it makes me look at things (knitting, life, all of it!) differently, and try to take that sort of approach in my own life.
*Hugs*

Sending positive thoughts and hugs your way!

I am so sorry! What a perfectly dreadful experience. I'm especially sorry she is attacking your family.

You bring so much fun and laughter to the world, and have done so much good. Thank you!

Sending love your way and hope that you are able to remember that this has nothing to do with you; it's all her crap. I was reminded today that we cannot change others, we can only change how we react to them. I realize that you have been trying very hard not to let this person get to you. Now that it's all out in the open, I hope that you can find some peace.

You're brave and tough. Hopefully she'll find something more positive to focus her energy on soon... Good luck, you're the best at what you do! I find so much inspiration in your posts, and not only knitting inspiration. Thanks for sharing.

I've been reading your blog for years and I don't think I've ever commented before...This "person" makes me so ashamed to be American. Stephanie, you rock.

I usually don't comment anymore because I know you have enough to do, but I thought I'd let you know that I am taking my American self out on knit night to my local bookstore to buy an extra copy of one of your books. I have them all already, some of them signed even (woo!) but I just need to buy another. Hugs to you, Joe, and your beautiful and talented daughters.

I'm behind you 110%, Steph.

No human being, especially you, should ever go through something like this. I love and admire you and look up to you as my knitting hero.

Know that all of us who read and love this blog everyday is there for you!

*Hugs*

I will not feed any trolls. Food is expensive enough as it is.

Stephanie, and I hope I can call you Stephanie after reading your blog all these years, as a proud pussy-posessing godless American, well, I'd say something a little more deep but I'm enjoying the effects of a dirty martini...So I'll just "ditto" everyone else (except a certain someone).

I usually don't comment anymore because I know you have enough to do, but I thought I'd let you know that I am taking my American self out on knit night to my local bookstore to buy an extra copy of one of your books. I have them all already, some of them signed even (woo!) but I just need to buy another. Hugs to you, Joe, and your beautiful and talented daughters.
(Sorry if this posts twice, but I thought of this after: And I'm making a donation to KWB for you. I know it's not enough to balance the karma, but hey, it can't hurt, right?)

Big hugs to you. It happened to me before and it bites. It hurts when people keep hating on you for no reason other than them feeling insecure about themselves.

We can't please everyone in the world. Just know that all the ones you've pleased, we're right here support you.

Wow, we don't evey know each other, and I'm still proud of you. Thanks for showing the way!

Wow. Stephanie, thanks for letting us know that you are being harrassed, and thanks for not quitting your blog. It impels we lurkers to speak up and let you know that your blog, your books, and your wit are an important part of our lives. I have thoroughly enjoyed your Canada Day posts, and found them to be educational and in *no* way anti-American.

I hope this hateful person will find something better to do with her time and leave you and your family in peace.

Rebecca Duncan, Whitehorse, Yukon

I am so sorry that you are having to deal with this. I hope she gets help and ceases the vitriol and cyberstalking. Please don't let this get you down.

Dear Stephanie,
Sending light and love your way. I love your blog. You have entertained me for countless hours! I hope you continue to do what you do so well.

This is the first time I've ever commented on your blog. I feel compelled to step up with the other Americans who have already commented and say I have derived so much enjoyment from your words over the years.

I'm so very sorry that this woman has behaved so shamefully toward you and your family. I'm also sorry that she is perpetuating the far too widespread notion that Americans are pompous and full of hate. She does not speak for me or any other American I know (I can very safely say that). She is not what my country is about.

Peace to you.

You know, this person could be OCD or just plain sick. Gotta feel sorry for her, she's like a swarm of mosquitos, blood-thirsty and darned annoying. Big hug for you.

It's beautiful here on the high road. Thanks for being such a great tour guide.

Steph, you have obviously been targeted by someone who is a bit unbalanced. I've been in a similar position once while moderating a reality TV forum and I know it's no fun. Unfortunately, you can't just "disappear" online the way I did back then (heck I couldn't do that now myself) until the person finds another target for her ire.

Hang in there and know that there are LOTS more people who love and support you than those who make it their personal crusade to throw mud in your direction.

Thanks for not letting us know about the situation so that we can offer you support. See you at Sock Summit!

I love your Canada posts! I love to learn more about different places, countries, etc. and how better than from people that live there?
Sending you positive thoughts from Kansas.

Stephanie, I have all your books and have gotten them as gifts for many others. I love your sense of humor, your sincerity, your stamina, your talent, and your constant ability to give so much to all of us. Yours was the first knitting blog I ever found and reading it is the last thing I do before I call it a day, each day. Blessings to you in every conceivable way!

Whoa . . . hope this person gets some professional help before they self-destruct. I love your blog - it's one of the highlights of my day!

The world is such a small place, and our lives are often already very hard; I believe wholeheartedly that there's no excuse for going out of your way to make someone else's life more difficult.

This US citizen sends you peaceful thoughts and gratitude for the countless hours of laughter and insight you have brought into my life. I'll buy two copies of your next book. That'll show the naysayers!

Namaste.

Just know that you have support beyond anything you can possibly imagine out here in the world wide web. Thank you for letting us know what has been happening. Shedding light on things certainly makes them less frightening. I hope it improves soon.

Thanks for not giving up on the blog just because of this one person. I for one enjoy reading your blog and having a look over the border from America. Keep your chin up.

When I finished reading this my heart HURT!!! I'm so sorry that you are being stalked. I am one of the millions of Ammericans who love you and will continue to support you. Don't let the bad one get you down, there are alot more of us that love you.

Steph, Keep your energy/vibrational level high and positive and she will fade away. Like attracts like. Hugs and stitches sent to you.

I've never posted before. Just wanted you to know how much joy your blog and your books bring me. I have been a target of a bully in my own community who seems very much like this person. The Internet is their tool to be vicious and hateful. Please know that you are loved and we're anxiously awaiting all the fun news of your Sock Summit! Thank you for sharing the humor in your life and making our lives brighter.

I'm so very sorry that this person has done this to you. I have to say, that as an American, a parent and a knitter, you have never said anything that has offended me or anyone else I know on any level. She definitely does not speak for all Americans. She should realize that, as Americans, we speak for ourselves!! Love, light and blessings to you and your family.

Well, I just found her blog and it is clear that she is seeking attention through a variety of means. You are right...if we want to support you, we should not respond to her comments or comment on her blog. I will not be visiting her blog again either. Life is too short.

Speaking as both an American AND a Wiccan (the horror!), that person is mental. She has too much time on her hands and would do well to take her own advice and read her bible, for she could learn a thing or two.

Hmmph!

I too have been reading and not commenting for years, but as someone who was on the receiving end of death threats from an ex-employee who was in a psychotic break, I know what it feels like. It makes you feel very vulnerable and has you looking over your shoulder and opening every letter or email with trepidation. It's so unsettling. My psycho finally stopped, but the remembrance of the harrassment remained with me a long time.

Please don't let it sour you to your blog. As you can see from this outpouring, we all think you're a wonderful person and talented resource.

I've never read your blog, but I read this one when I saw a tweet about it. I'm sorry you had to go through this but thanks for writing what had to be a very hard post to write.

Be safe, be well and have fun.

Steve from Illinois, USA

Stay safe. You keep me laughing here in New England. Hugs to you and yours!

I guess having crazy cyber-stalkers comes with the territory, but please don't let it daunt you. As so many others (from the US), I check your blog as soon as I go on line. Your thoughts, stories and project info are so enjoyable - a guilty pleasure when I should be actually knitting on my own (gazillion) WIP.

Please don't let it get you down, or inhibit your writing in any way.
You are a star!

Stephanie, This isn't about Americans or Canadians.... it's about crazy and mean people. Every country has them. This was just the topic she chose to attack with. I agree with you about not fighting fire with fire. The trick is to take away her fire. And you did that by bringing this out into the open. Here's hoping she finds a more acceptable outlet for her energies. And then there is always Karma.

And this is why we are called the "Ugly Americans". Some people can be so....for lack of a better word, stupid.

I'm an American who's behind you 100%.

I'm another lurker who is finally going to post. I love your blog and books, and you always make me giggle. You seem like a very nice woman who is very supportive of her family, and certainly makes a wonderful and positive impact on the world through humor, fundraising, education, and spreading the knitting love.

Hopefully this woman will get the help she needs, and you seem to be managing this about as well as anyone could, better really.

*sigh* I'm so sorry. I'm glad, so glad that you understand that hate isn't representative of either Canada or the US. I enjoy the heck out of your work, Stephanie, and only financial and health means have prevented my getting to attend your appearances in my radius of reasonable. I look forward to offering to buy you a cup of coffee and/or a beer when I do.

It appears to be people that cement my sticking to a hobby or set of hobbies. I had the great good fortune to read EZ (_Knitting Without Tears_) and then your _Knitting Rules!_ when first getting into knitting and there was no looking back -- I knew that if such people were in knitting that I wanted to be in knitting, too. One year later, I'm planning my first Fair Isle (Autumn Rose), I'm addicted to socks, the baby's got her first sweater from me, and my eldest is in the midst of learning to knit. And I've begun my Christmas knitting - and I'm GOING to knit that Ysolde Teague sweater for me, soon. So soon.

So many hugs, Steph. This is coming in a stressful time for you, I know, but there's nothing to ever take away that you have reached many lives (and fingers and, um, adjusted the budgets of the finger-owners). That you have and are raising fabulous girls. That you're a capable woman who can get her husband's venerable truck out of a tight spot. That you've ushered into the world with your two capable hands so very many children to make this world that much brighter and shining. That it was totally your fault that I knit Leyburn. That you've been an advocate for sane and reasonable birthing practices. That your work your ass off for the world at large, for the nation of Knitting which knows no borders, and for your slice of the world people call "family and friends." That you are a sane and reasonable woman with people who love you and look forward to your face coming in the doorway very time it's there.

Be well, Stephanie.

Cheer up, I'm sorry to say that this level of comment is the type of thing I see on CNN.Com and other very popular websites all the time. Which is only to say, you are freaking popular and most of have a more positive way of enjoying ourselves. Here's positive vibes for sock summit. Now to resume attending to knitting.

Stephanie! you go girl. I'm an American who thinks you are amazing... and love your Canada Day posts and I think you are very funny and sensitive.

I am so proud of you for doing the hard, and right, thing - and so ashamed that this "person" (quote marks intentional)claims to be "American" - I can assure you, most of us are nothing like her! And most of us who read your blog adore you- and your accomplishments and your knit-sational creations :-)
My G*d-beyond-all-Names bless and keep you safe and strong.

You know, as an American living in Canada, when I'm here, it is people like her that are why I constantly have to defend myself against the "ugly American" stereotype.

And Steph, it is people like you (who once e-mailed me an apology for the weather in Ontario, like that's your fault) that make it easy for me to say, "no, actually, on the whole Canadians are quite kind and clever," when I'm in the States and my relatives get snarky about Canadians.

Good on ya, Steph. You are heard, loved and doing your best. That's all anyone can ask of you or themselves. I am 100% certain you have made the world a better place, and I have a hunch you'll keep doing so...no matter what anyone tells you. Light, love and respect right back atcha as they say.

Cheers,
Lorraine

Stephanie, I have always admired your grace, good humour, common sense and live and let live attitude (not to mention your awesome knitting and spinning). I am sure all of these things will help see you through this trying period, along with the support of your family, friends and (I hope, I don't want to presume!) The Blog.

I'm sure you were dragged up the same way most of us were. If you can't say something nice about someone then don't say anything at all. You have every right to defend yourself. One wonders why people feel this need. In recent weeks here in
the state of Victoria, there has been much press given to cyber bullying. This is exactly what this woman is doing. She is being a big bully. Unfortunately for her felloow Americans, she is unwittingly dragging them all down as well. There are these types the world over, don't let it get you down. The cyber bullying press came to the fore due to the fact that a 14 year old girl from a large regional city committed suicide as a result of internet bullying. She was the fourth from the same school since February. This is such a sad indictment on our society and says much about the bully. Keep your chin up. You've done the right thing. As they say in the Godfather (and that endearing Greg Kinnear film - You've Got Mail) "go to the mattresses".

Peace and good wishes from Ohio. You're in my thoughts and prayers. She is, too.

We don't want the crazy people to stay in this country. Sorry for the hassle from some crazy person who was unfortunately born here.

Looking forward to the Sock Summit marketplace.

Hey Steph, I'm so sorry you've had to go through this. It has been noticed around the US that some people who seem to describe themselves as conservative Christians have not been handling things well since the elections here & many (But nowhere near all) have been behaving badly & just not handling things well. This is certainly not an excuse for her behavior, just an attempt at figuring out WTF her problem is. I hope she leaves you alone & again I'm very sorry you've had to put up with this. FWIW I've always enjoyed your work & I respect you even more for your handling of this.

I'm a regular reader, mainly a lurker, but wanted to send you good wishes. It's your blog, you can post what you like. I, for one, am happy to keep reading.

I think this particular post might have brought additional attention to a situation that I really knew nothing about. Now I do. Sometimes I think the more elegant and effective response is no response at all.

Steph - I have been reading your blog for some time now but have never commented. I am in total and utter disbelief in people and their audacity. I cannot believe that someone feels that they have the right or that it is even ok to say things like that to another human being...I am almost sorry to even say that I am an American because it would mean that I am somehow connected to people like this.

Please take care of yourself.

With lots of love, Renee

Stephanie,
I don't know what to say. I had one of those days today with a face-off with mean people, I personally hate it. It is hard to fight hate and deliberate malice, but it is a fight we must all fight to win. And no one is immune to this kind of tyrany and vitriol. I will say a prayer tonight for you and your family's safety. I will ask that really BIG protection is sent for you all.
Be at Peace.
Be well.

Just wanted to let you know that you have my support. I am so sorry that you have been treated badly.

Just wanted to let you know that you have my support. I am so sorry that you have been treated badly.

Steph -

Here's a video from one of my favorite comedians Rob P, that may at least make you smile...

I tried to embed it, if that doesn't work...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpWpdcR63ms

Stephanie, this woman is batshit crazy. As an American-- as many of your readers-- I'm shocked and embarrassed that anyone would a) consider that they represented the whole fucking country (beg pardon), and b) consider to represent it in that way. We're a big giant melting pot (aren't we all?), and it's horrifying to think that any one person could believe that they know everything and know what's best for one country, ESPECIALLY over a knitting blog. Not to put down the craft or anything, I love my knitting and my knitters, but that's nuts. There was nothing anti-American about your Canada Day post (like, her crazy pro-American emails, for instance, were anti-Canada or whatever). I enjoy your Canada Day posts. And all of your posts. It's just... this world is too little (big?) to get all riled up over something ridiculous like that. Blah blah blah, in short, you're wonderful. You're respectful, and you're kind, and you try to do what's best. You're doing the right thing, and yes, this woman may break through, but you've got the rest of us on your side. I'm sending love, from down here in the US of A.

I don't know how you, or even Canada, could be offensive to anyone. This chick makes me embarrassed to call myself American. Good on you and keep knitting. :)

I learned a while ago that the only behaviours you can control are your own - good on you for taking the high road. So sorry you are going thru this - and big hugs to you and your family.

I've been reading your blog for over a year. I'm an American. I won't lie, I love my country. I've never once found anything that I was offended by. I love your blog and I hope that you feel all of our love and hope for you coming through. Remember, one bad person does not HAVE to spoil the bunch of those that love your work and hope for the best for you and your family.

Dude!!! I had to stop knitting tonight when I saw this. I'm a red-blooded, daughters-of-the-American-Revolution, Mayflower-family Christian veteran (among other things) and I want you especially please to know that your Canada Day posts are some of my favorites ever. You, through your blog and books, have brought me more merriment, inspiration, comfort, and just plain excellent vibes than I can describe---so Thank You so much.

Please accept a huge apology from south of the border that one of "our" lunatics has inflicted herself on you. I've read rants like this more than once, (usually directed within the evolution debate, thanks to my line of work) but I never would have imagined that you'd be targeted. You work so hard to bring the whole knitting community sooooooo much (see you in Portland!!!!!!!!), and to have your brain cells spent on this is just awful.

I'll agree: pursue the legal end. Bet you never even want to think about it again, but as said before, it *is* illegal, and she ought to be shut down.

megahugs

As an American and someone who simply considers Cananda my neighbor to the north, I'd be happy to stand up with you for a rousing rendition of Oh Canada....and I'll say a little prayer for you and her tonight.

hugs and cashmere to you, who lightens our days with laughter and joie de vivre. just keep being the light. we love you. way more of us out here.

YH- I would just like to say that I've enjoyed everything that you've written for the public to see. I'm an American proudly and would have said something if I thought it was cruel. I love that you post about "Canadian" type things, because learning about others is always great. And I've noticed you say when you happen to post on the 4th of July, Happy Independence Day to all those that celebrate it, or something of the like. You rock!
S

It's a total shame you're having to deal with a mentally unstable individual who is seriously on-the-borderline of threatening you. Please take care of yourself and your family. Don't let this person ruin Sock Summit -- you've worked hard and deserve a wonderful event. Best wishes to you.

Isn't it funny how she claims to be christian but her treatment of you is anything but christian? Makes you want to know exactly what she's getting out of her religious experience.

I'm sorry that you and your family have to put up with this type of crap. I'm American and I love you.

I am always amazed that people do not see how ridiculous they are. Your blog, books, knitting and character speak for themselves. The woman is a nut and unfortunatly she is from America, how sad for us. We are not all crazy. Please continue what you do and be safe.

I'm one more American who thinks you're terrific. Please accept this long-distance hug from a stranger who cares.

I'm one more American who thinks you're terrific. Please accept this long-distance hug from a stranger who cares.

Oh, Stephanie. How sad.

Dang, but you must be a saint.
I'll be holding you in the light and sending strength.
I hope you know how many more people adore you than are loonily stalking you.
~Carrie, a (not crazy) American

I've been too busy reading your blog, your books AND calendar to notice your so called anti American comments. You make me smile and there have been days that you made me laugh when I desperately needed a laugh. You and your books have gotten me through my Mom's knee surgery, my Father In law's heart attack, two Late night runs to the ER when my teenaged son suffered severe chest pains and the follow up appointments we're going through.
And I thank you for your "company" on those occassions.
Big hugs for you and yours.

Kyra (in San Antonio, Texas)

From what I can tell from your writing you are an awesome mom, and a kind, loving person in general. This person is wrong on so many levels. I'm really sorry, Stephanie that you have to deal with this. Ridiculous. I'm from the US and I've never thought you've been anti-American. That's crazy talk. I met you in Seattle last year and you were completely awesome in person too. You have all my love, respect, and admiration for how you've dealt with this.

Oh Stephanie, you are such a wonderful woman. I know that to be true--it's so clear in everything you write.

I'm so sorry this is happening. I wouldn't worry for one little second about the etiquette of posting these evil emails--that applies to normal circumstances. You don't get to use manners as an excuse to hide your evil behaviour.

If I don't like someone, I don't hang around them. That's what decent, normal people do.

As for you feeling insecure, I know you are human with great qualities and flaws like the rest of us, (though are sure funnier than a lot of people and you can knit faster than anyone I know). I also know that, as other posters have said, even though your writing is mostly light hearted, it's touched me in very serious ways more than once.

Like so many others I feel a kinship with you. I'm vegetarian, have worn birks for years, I love a good beer (McMennamins got me through grad school), we have similar philosophies of childbirth and child rearing, I love that you were a doula--best invention ever!--and so much more.

I know we are not "friends." That doesn't mean you haven't been of value in my life. When I was pregnant and read your story about the sleeping, laboring woman, that changed my whole approach to my pregnancy, in a way that was so important for me.

Your recent book about the very energetic child was so, so comforting--I have that very child--and there's so little comfort and sense about that kind of child. Wonderful though they are, they are so hard and so exhausting, too, and that acknowledgment that someone else knew how I felt and that it was real and valid was so, so important to me.

And your general decency, goodness, and caring reminds almost every day that yes, there are people like you in the world, and I must never allow myself to be too cynical.

I appreciate all that and so much more, more than you will ever know.

Thank you for everything.

If I see you at Sock Summit I promise not to be too fangirl, though I confess it will be hard. ;)

Stephanie, I'm so sorry you have to deal with this. I am American and I only have admiration and liking for you. I enjoy reading your views on everything, agree with most, and frequently quote you to my friends. I think you have done a fabulous job raising your beautiful daughters and that the reason that so very many people love you (point to 30,000 trying to sign up for Sock Summit!) is that you are not only a great knitter, but you genuinely try to do what you can to make the world better. If only we could have more of you. I hope she gets tired of this and goes away. You don't deserve to have to deal with her.

With idiots like her running loose in America, this might be a fine time to consider moving to Canada...

Oh my hell. People need to get a life. Seriously........can we all just go back to our knitting? All of this over yarn and knitting?? Uh, I hope she isn't coming to Sock Summit.

You hang in there sister. Like my dad says, don't let the bastards get you down.

Scary.

Keep being the LIGHT you are! *HUGS*

I'm sorry. Just reading this made my stomach hurt, and I'm not the one getting these emails. I know that you know this -- but we're not all like that down here. You're doing the right thing, and thanks for reminding us to focus on what we want there to be more of and not to feed the negative energy machine. It's hard, but it's the right thing to do.

See you in Portland (and I mean that in a good, non-stalkery kind of way).

(P.S. I can't wait for the rant about the use of terms to refer to female genitalia as an insult. I have the same kind of rant that I share in a gender and language class I teach and I'm sure I could pick up a few pointers!)

There's no end to the number of ways people can get in deep on this stuff. But I completely support the shine the light on principle, even where there's a little dust kicked up in the process. I think if you are prepared to say it, you should be prepared to stand up for it and the anonymity of the internet indeed lets people bypass all social controls. It is up to every user of the internet to build conventions to make it clear what is not OK. The number of comments here is a testament to how many people support your view.

Hi Stephanie! As a dual American and Canadian citizen, I can say with perfect confidence that I love Canadians. And I love Americans. And most of all, I love knitters...wherever they live. What I do not love are people who have so little self-esteem that they need to tear down others in order to feel important. How pathetic!

I applaude you for your courage, artistry, enthusiasm, and your caring heart. And I am sorry that you have to go through this, just so some person with a sickness of the soul can feel like she finally has her 5 minutes of fame.

{{{STEPHANIE}}}

The first time I picked up your book in the store I felt like I had sat down to chat with an old friend. You helped me out of an acrylic trap and into a cashmere one; it was great fun and my husband hated you for it. But... this is truly horrifying. Don't read another email this person sends you. Pass them on to your lawyer unread and do not burden yourself with someone else's hatred.

That actually turned my stomach. It's attitudes like that that make people hate Americans and I'm embarrassed on behalf of my country. I think you're wonderful and I have NEVER seen you be anti-American. Well, you DID question our sizing system on needles.. but really, we all should question that ;)

Well, I'm glad you post. I think you're awesome. You're freaking cool :D

One more American voice: I am so sorry for your troubles. I apologize for our very American fringe. A country that tolerates huge diversity will always include the far far edges of human behaviour, sometimes for better and, sometimes, for worse. I think you are a strong person & will find more strength from this, but oh, I am so sorry. I would like to make it all go away.

Stephanie, I am so sorry this has happened. Man, I wish you had a comment counter, and she had to read all of these comments, a large portion from Americans, supporting you. Some people haven't a clue what it means to really be Christian.

As a somewhat laid back American who has been described as either conservatively liberal or liberally conservative, I have to say that I have never read anything on your blog that I perceived as insulting to the US or Americans. (poking fun and pretty dang funny- yes, insulting- no) And if I had, well no one forces me to read your blog. If I don't like what I'm reading I'll just move on. As I've been reading your blog since '04, obviously I like what I'm reading. I'm sorry you've had to put up with so much crap, but I hope you know that the vast majority of us enjoy reading what you write whether we agree with everything or not.

I can't believe this. Please don't take her to heart because your blog is a constant source of entertainment and delight for me, as have all your books been.

Wow, she is so jealous of you!!! It's apparent to me that she's trying to steal some of your well deserved and hard earned lime light, but enough talking about her. You kick ass! You are an amazing, funny, caring, loving, giving, helpful, creative, thoughtful woman. You and your blog rock my knitting world. Keep at it!

I once heard that a person can be spiritual without being religious but a person who is religious without being spiritual is dangerous. I didn't quite get it until I read about this person. Take care of yourself and you were so right to let everyone know what was happening to you. She's not firing on all cylinders......

Hey Steph,

So who's getting tired of the humor writing? And BTW, 'jolly well' is a fine expression, but soooo not an American English expression, just sayin... Keep up the good work and the humorous (and often thoughtful) writing!

Oh I get it! She's crazy. I hope you can now dismiss her as she is not worth dwelling on anymore.

wow. much love to you harlot. from an american, who has seen you in 3 states (one twice), bought your books, laughed and cried with you for the past 5 years.

I read faithfully, have left comments, received responses and have had the pleasure of meeting you. Stephanie, I think you are incredibly level-headed, and I applaud you for your handling of this situation. If I am reading everything correctly, and I think I am, then this all stemmed from a post for Canada Day. So, because you are proud to be Canadian, you're automatically anti-American? Does that make me, an American, anti-Canadian? No. How about the fact that I was born blonde, does that mean I hate brunettes? No.

In fact, I remember last year you spoke of someone being upset over your Canada Day posting (hopefully I'm not completely delusional here), that I did a post of my own on my blog, about Texas --http://cusegirlknits.wordpress.com/2008/07/04/the-texas-sky-is-the-biggest-one-ive-seen-but-it-still-aint-big-enough-for-you-and-me/

This does not mean I'm Anti any-other state, it means I'm proud to be a Texan. Sheesh.

Thank you for letting us know. Thank you for keeping your blog. Thank you just for being you.

Being a woman of sterling good sense, I'm sure you've already taken whatever legal steps are available to you to protect yourself, your loved ones and your livelihood.

That said, I think the Arab proverb was written for just this kind of situation. "The dogs bark, but the caravan moves on." You just keep moving on, Steph.

I'm appalled at this persons comments and treatment of you. I love to read your blog and books- If she doesn't like you why does she still read these?? I hope you can get the authorities to stop her harassment. Your other fans and I stand with you- don't let the turkeys get you down!!

Respectable knitters distancing themselves from you? Huh? I'm pretty respectable (a PhD student) and I'm not distancing myself!

You're an inspiration.

I have to say I'm disappointed in the way she has misrepresente and insulted my country--and I'm an American. Be well, be safe, be strong.

Add me to your looooong list of admirers and a first time poster. Please don't let her ugly behavior penetrate your inner awesomeness. Her voice is really just random noise from the universe. Let it pass by and float off into the vacuum.

Many hugs, Stephanie. I'll say what many of the others are. As an American and a Christian (albeit a liberal one *gasp*)...this woman is...wrong (trying to be polite, here lol).

Love you, love your parenting, love your...trueness? of self, love your patriotism to your country, love your knitting, & love your books.

1) I am American, and often proud of it.
2) I am Christian
3) I just re-read your last Canada day post, and could not figure out where the anti-American sentiment was.
4) I just re-read your 2008 Canada day post and could not figure out where the anti-American sentiment was.
5) I have read, and commented on, your blog for years. I have heard you talk, and talked to you in the signing line. I adore you and your writing.
6) While I live in Minnesota, very close to Canada, I learn more about Canada from you than I do anywhere else.

SOMEONE has to learn that just because you are proud of your country, and say that things are so in Canada and not necessarily in the rest of the world - that is NOT a bash against the US.

I wish you strength and love through this time. I wish I was coming to the Sock Summit so I could tell you this in person.

I'm shocked to read this story! I've been reading your blog (& your books) for years. I even met you briefly at MD Sheep & Wool a while back... and I cannot imagine why anyone would have such venom towards you! I have always found you to be a lovely person: funny, witty & sincere. And so what if you're proud of your country? Good for you! Pride in one's own country does not equal scorn for other countries.

I am a Christian, pretty conservative American, and although I know this goes without saying, she does NOT represent me or anyone I know, at all! I am always especially disturbed when people who claim to be Christian behave in such terrible ways. And anyway, if you ask me, I think that chic has a little bit of the crazy going on (like, John Hinckley, Jr. crazy) so I'll be praying that she just goes away.

I support you, Stephanie! Thank you for sharing your knits, your family & your life with us!

She really is nuts and responding, as you say, just fuels the fire. Hang in there; we're with you...

Stephanie, this is cyber stalking. Please get help from the authorities. As you can see from all your comments there are so many people who have never met you who love you and would protect you if they could. Please take care of yourself.

This woman is very scary & what she has been doing is (I think) illegal. I agree with the suggestions that you seek legal advice. She is a crazy stalker & who knows what she might do. Her blatant distortions of what you have said (anti-American? what? does she think that being proud of your country makes you anti-American?) are symptomatic of serious mental illness & you need to take action to protect yourself. If you have her address, you might contact local law enforcement to see if there is anything they can do to help you.

Oh.My.Goodness!

For a minute, (ok longer than a minute), I thought that you were going to say that you were shutting the blog down.

Please take care of yourself, and Joe and the girls. This is a very scary situation.

We're all here for you. And we love you. I love your Canada Day entries. I've learned so much about Canada from them. You have national pride. She has national pride. Why are you wrong, and she's right? Because, of course, she's not.

You've been trying to let this die down, and now it's in the light. But so is all the support you've got. From all corners of the world. We love you!

Oh dear. You have unwittingly attracted a nut. I understand the urge to defend oneself, but you aren't dealing with a person who operates by the normal rules of rational discourse. There is no reasoning with someone who isn't equipped with that ability.

I'm an American, and I've never been offended by your blog. Keep doing what you do, writing what you write, and carry one. I second Laura's hug.

I Googled a few phrases and found her within moments. Then I read about 5 of her blogs and felt physically sick. I'm OK with disagreement as long as you stick to the facts, but moving into personal attacks is a bit much for me. She's vicious and hateful and disturbed. Stephanie, just know, she does not represent all 260 million Americans. The rest of us "Sensible" people understand your humor and love it (which is why you have all the blogging awards, the best-selling books, a socks summit so popular that the entire server crashed.... :) and she....well....whatever..)

Message received. I won't ever venture there again.

Just know that you are receiving a lot of love tonight.

Yeesh, Steph. I'm so sorry. And a little worried, this woman is clearly not completely sane. Is there anything legally you can do to make her leave you alone? I mean, even if you were anti-American, atheist, blah blah blah, (which I in no way think you are), there are much greater villians and evil folks in the world. (In fact, we don't have to look beyond our own US borders to find them...) As an American, and more importantly, a fellow human, I support you and all that you give to the world. As a follower of Christ, I will try to remember that we are to love our enemies. That's the goal, anyway. Hang in there sister.

We all know what is going on now. Thank you for the clear honesty -- nothing posted by her will even be read, much less thought about...

No contest.

Hi Stephanie!

I'm another lurker, sorry I don't comment very often.
I am so very proud and impressed by your compassion to others. You've definitely got my support! And I agree with Cate (somewhere far above in the comments) - this lady definitely doesn't knit enough.

(((((HUGS))))

Long-time reader, first-time poster, *and* an American who's visiting Canada right now for the very first time! (Lovely, lovely country by the way! I'm in Montreal, and the people (and the food!) are forty billion kinds of amazing.) I just Twittered some adoration to you, but I wanted to post here, too.

I love your sense of humor and honesty about EVERYTHING -- the joys and frustrations about knitting, family, traveling, the whole kit 'n' kaboodle. Your posts make my day, make me cry, make me laugh... THANK YOU.

I'm so sorry to hear about this situation. Please know that for every single person like that out there, there are thousands and thousands more who love and respect what you do. I'm proud of how you are handling this.

Oh. I had no idea all this was going on while you are hard at work on the sock summit. Be careful please- that person sounds unstable. You're a fantastic individual and this isn't about you.
Another American fan who loves you and your work.

I'm an American who loves the fact that you love your Country enough to say so, every year, even though there is backlash. I understand the difference between loving your country and dissing another, and I strongly suspect that people who say otherwise have hidden agendas that don't even pertain to your love of Canada. Like they hate environmentalists, or celebrities, or they're off their meds. For every jerk, you have two hundred people who love you.

Hi Steph, I have sent a post to you earlier in this wonderful response. I just spoke to my son who is in IT security for a major corporation. He says there is no provider that wants their customer to be harassed. He says the reason it continues is that people give up to soon when trying to complain. He says to get in touch with supervisors in security with all of your providers, including twitter and facebook. Provide them with copies of several of the messages from several of the addresses and particularly any with threats. It may take you more than one try, but keep trying until you find someone to listen and we both hope that you do. He does also say that you might have to go beyond the local authorities. I hope we are not leading you on a goose chase and that you get some action and some relief. Good luck, Steph.

I am so sorry! We Americans unfortunately have a few bad apples, that tend to ruin reputations for the rest of us. We love you so much, and I personally feel horrible for what you must be going through. As someone who recently endured a crazy reject-almost boyfriend, one who followed me around and tried to alienate me from my friends when I was in a scary new environment, I sympathize with anyone who feels harassed. I can only hope that this woman will see the error of her ways--it really only shows your kind heart that you don't publish her name, and continue to take the high road. We're all rooting for you Stephanie! Keep being your amazing blogger self!

Oh Stephanie, I'm so sorry to hear about what you've been dealing with. And on top of all the Sock Summit planning!! Hopefully she'll knock it off soon so you and your family can have some peace. Thank you so much for your blog, I always enjoy reading it (and your books) and have never read anything anti-American or whatever. Lots of good thoughts coming your way from Iowa. :)

I know this is far from an original comment, but I have to post it: I am a Christian American traditional woman and whoever this person is - rest assured she DOES NOT represent me in any way, shape or form.

She is giving Christian American Women a bad name.

Thank you for the bravery it took to share the whole ugly mess. You shouldn't have to deal with that alone. You have support out here!

I personally enjoy your Canada Day posts as they are wonderful tributes to your beautiful country and they also remind me to wish Happy Canada Day to my best friend - who is, of course Canadian, living here in the US. We saw you when you were in CA a few years back and you "tested" her with some sort of candy jingle. We had a blast that day.

You are loved and respected here in the US no matter what that person says.

Stephanie, Bless you for your courage and determination to put an end to the "mean" and obvious unnecessary harassment you've been suffering for the past month. As an American Knitter/Crafter, one bad apple does not speak for all of us. And the person harassing you is a bad apple. You that you are loved for who you are and for standing up for your principles.

Stephanie---You're a class act! You've taught a lot of people a great deal about knitting. Now you've educated a whole lot more on how to take the high road in an untenable situation. Take care.

Jane

I am American and think you like us a lot other wise you wouldn't come to see us. So please keep coming to see us and I send a comment hug for you keep strong.

I just wanted to say, like over 500 people before me, that you are always respectful, funny, and smart. Don't let anyone make you question that for a second. Robin, Ohio, USA

By the way, the high road takes a lot more grit than mudslinging, but I'm sure you know that. You've handled this well.

Dearest Stephanie,
As a first-time poster (but LONG time reader) I feel like perhaps I may not have earned the right to call you "Dearest," but that is what you feel to me; a wonderful friend, who delights me with her witticisms, laughs, and plain ol' common sense every time I am lucky enough to read your posts. I will not give this woman the attention she wishes and rail on her tactics (as much as the fear and anger in my heart wishes to do), but yet, as a small effort to counterbalance the negativity placed in the world by her and others like her, I write this list for you, a list of what you have taught me (and all the thanks and love that it can entail):

-You have, unbeknownst to you, happily encouraged me to finish my first sweater (seamed up January, 2009);
-You have given me exemplars (and some sage advice) of how to raise my future children;
-You have made me, as an American, even MORE proud to share a border with your fine country, which I did not think possible (an aside: my home state of Maine is often lovingly called "Southern Canada," for reasons I wish were more for the supreme humanity of your people and less for the frigid cold! :) ;
-You have made me wish for a love as strong, cooperative, and fun as the one that you share with your Joe;
-You have made me tardy to work due to checking your Twitter feed :) ;
-You have made me want to try to knit socks (as scary as they seem);
-You have made me smile, on a daily basis;
-You have made me purchase your book "Knitting Rules," which I must say was one of the more entertaining and informational reads I have had in quite a long time;
-You have inspired me to knit at bars (and my non-knitting friends think it quaint!);
-You have taught me to seek out yarn stores, stitch'n'bitches, and knitting clubs;

But after all of this, perhaps, most importantly:
-You have made me smile and laugh heartily;
-You have made me love the art of knitting above all crafts;
-You have made my day.

I am sorry for the long post, but I wanted to try and counteract the bad with some positive energy (as well as maybe pump a bit of happy into your life).

With the most respect and admiration,
Lissa

Hate to hear that someone is taking what should be a fun blog for everyone to enjoy into an opportunity to spout vile nonsense. Stephanie, if you have to turn off comments for a while, we will understand. We will miss it, but we will understand. I think some blogs have a "comment delay" feature for this very reason, where comments aren't posted until the blogger has a had a chance to screen them.

I'm another reader who has never posted. Maybe once or twice. I never posted because I didn't think you read all your comments. Well, I guess you have to now. I'm so sorry you have to put up with that and I'm so embarrassed that she is from America. It gets me extremely angry when people use their religion to justify being a snot. She might say she's a christian but she sure isn't acting like one. And everyone I know thinks you are wonderful.

Further proof there ain't no lifeguard at the gene pool.

I think perhaps your harasser is ill and has developed a very illogical fixation with you.

For the record, I'm Australian and never once took your Canada Day posts as anti-US ... or anti-Australian for that matter ;-)

XOX

FYI I meant to add that if you need extra support in the IT department, I also work IT security and support. If you need extra firepower, you ONLY have to say so.

Another long-time lurker coming out to say good for you and keep on going! I love reading what you write and would be very sad if you stopped! And as my mom always says, 'never get into a fight with someone who is clearly crazier than you.'

I'm so ashamed of one of my own people treating you in this manner. You have nothing to feel a lack of self esteem over. You are the most brilliant individual I have come across in a very long time and I truly love everything you do. I have learned so much from you and have been inspired to try sock knitting even. I can't imagine putting on a sock summit like you are ding without a whole staff of help. I trust that this doesn't become a threat of harm to you and your family. I would think there could be something done if that happens. Freedom to use the wireless isn't a license to harm.

I'm so sorry. Thanks for putting it out there.

I never comment on blogs, though I follow yours religiously. This blog has kept me entertained, grounded and sane through some pretty rough times (some really icky MS stuff, BTW, thanks for that!) and I am realy sorry to see this happen to such a wonderful person and her family.

I also found the culprit's blog, unfortunately through her comment tonight. And all I can say is wow. Not very Christian.

I've been reading for a while now and think I've only commented once or twice. This post really is bringing a lot of lurkers out into the light!

It's because we all love having you in our virtual lives. It's because we all so appreciate your wit and character, and I think I speak for a lot of us when I say I'd go to the mattresses for you. Thanks for being classy enough not to raise your army of loyal knitters to do battle.

As an ex-pat American who loves her new country, I've been accused to anti-Americanism. It hurts, and it's frightening, because it shows how blinded people can be by nationalism.

I just wanted you to know that when I work on my prayer shawl today, I'll be praying for your safety and health.

{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}} Sorry you have to deal with this. Keep to the high road and keep writing! Don't let the trolls get you down.

I love your blog, and I love your Canada Day posts. I agree with everyone above- please ignore her and keep up the great work!

I have been reading your blog for a while, but this is my first time commenting. Like so many other people, I just wanted to say that I am so sorry that this woman is causing you so much trouble. You have handled this situation well, and I hope it gets better soon.

Stephanie, you are a class act, seriously. Thank you for all your witty words and helpful hints. I love all of your books. And I am a American. (but secretly want to be a Canadian)

wow. i've seen my fair share of crazy on the internet, but not somewhere as peaceful and fun as your site. i'm sorry you are going through this.

When the US gets good health care, perhaps this woman will be able to get help for her mental illness. Meanwhile, I hope you can feel our support for you.

Love. Light. Respect.
I hope she gets whatever help she needs asap. In the meantime, you have a lot of voices, including mine, to drown it out. You rock.

Another American here sending support and good vibes your way! Take the steps you necessary to limit your exposure and to protect yourself, and try to live your life as you always have. Your blog is wonderful - I've read it for years and have never read anything that could be considered offensive. To the contrary, I've learned a lot and laughed myself silly. Stay strong!

I've posted here just a few times - Stephanie, sending you light and peace. I'm American, and as others have been saying, this person does NOT speak for all of us - she's definitely not well, so please be safe.

Thanks for all the joy and laughter your writing and insight has brought me over the last few years. You are a (Canadian) treasure!

Your blog is funny, funny, funny, and I enjoy seeing the beautiful things you knit. However, I LOVE when you delve into your day-to-day life. The appliance adventures, the cooking with family, the friends you meet when you visit new places...all of these things inspire me. As a 29-year-old woman, my peers and surroundings sometimes make me cynical about love and family. The way you live your life reminds me that there are folks out there who live honestly and love earnestly. So, thanks for sharing.

I am the husband of a knitter. got this through the various lines. I am an American, married to a Canadian, imagine how horrible I must be!. I have never seen, nor heard anything Anti-American in any of the blogs nor the books I have seen. I can only imagine how stressful this can be. But be strong, there are only so many IPs that the ISP will give her. (I know this for I am a certified computer geek, took the tests and everything). If you know her Provider, contacting them with evidence of her malice, they might be able to step in and help. Imagine her fury when an American company helps a Canadian.

Best wishes and chin up!

Tray

Stephanie,

I'm very sorry you are having to deal with this. The woman is certainly mentally ill. I want you to know that I think you're terrific, I like your blog and your books, and I'll be thinking of you at this difficult time.

Long time reader - first time poster. Stay strong, nutters can be the hardest, most draining people in the world. You bring much enjoyment to many, know we appreciate you and the effort.

Oh Stephanie. Light and Love, indeed, and I'm sending them to you. I think you and every member of your family to be exceptional human beings.
I'm sorry this has been going on. XOXOX

Stephanie,
This is so hurtful and I'm so sorry that you have had to (privately even) deal with all of this. I hope that this and all the other wonderful comments help you to feel like we have your back on this because we TOTALLY do.

Good for you. And thank you for setting a good example for reacting to a tough situation. I wish you the best of luck, and love all your books and posts (they make my day. Really, they do).

Happy knitting and all the best!

p.s.
Love the Canada Day posts (even though I live in the States). It's always good to know about and understand other countries. Woohoo multiculturalism!

Dear Yarn Harlot:

Over the years I have been very impressed with the graceful and respectful way you have dealt with uncomfortable situations. Sadly your success has thrown you into the lime light and made you a target.

You have taught me to be kinder by your example. I was a shocked to think about what having a cyber stalker would be like. I hope good can come out of this event. It makes me want to be kinder, more tolerant, and always wait 24 hours before responding to something that has made me angry. I plan to go out and practice some random act of kindness in your name.

Stunned and so very sorry you've had to deal with this. You should be proud of yourself for the way you've handled it. Behind you 100%!

Stephanie,
My family and I are the target of unreasoned hatred and vitriol from a neighbor who is, I am convinced, paranoid schizophrenic. She has demeaned, debased, and slandered us to friends and acquaintances. She has regularly screamed and cursed at us. She has shot at my husband and son (for which she was arrested and hospitalized). Fortunately, our friends, neighbors, acquaintances and anyone else in the county know that she is sick, and that we are not the drug dealers, cattle rustlers, and murderers that she believes we are.

This is true for you, too. One misguided, mistaken person cannot override what the rest of us know about you. That you are a fine, loving, witty, responsible, hard-working, talented (I could go on) person.

We ignore her. We reported her to the sheriff when she broke the law. We live with it and get on with our lives.

Call the police. I'm not even joking. What is happening is not legal here (in the U.S.).

I didn't interpret your own pride in your country as anti-anything. I am proud of the good things mine has done too, but not so much some of the other things.

How embarrassing for an American Christian that's not a goofball.

As an American Christian, this person is an embarrassment. So sorry to know that you are dealing with something like this and just know that we support you and love what you are doing.

Long time reader & fan from America. I've never heard/read anything from you that sounded anti-America. I adore you & your writing. Just wanted to send you an Internet hug.

Long time reader & fan from America. I've never heard/read anything from you that sounded anti-America. I adore you & your writing. Just wanted to send you an Internet hug.

I am completely shocked, appalled, and (almost) without words. This woman obviously has some major mental issues that she needs to work out. I know it's easier said than done, but please don't let this one person get to you. There are thousands of us out here who think you are doing a great and wonderful thing and we enjoy reading all about your life. Please keep your head up and I hope this all blows over soon.

I'm a conservative/right-wing Christian American knitter. And I think you're amazing. And I'll keep buying your books.

Don't let the Muggles get you down!

Another lurker coming out in support. I hope the sheer number of new commenters who want to show you love and appreciation can offset the one rotten apple.

I don't always agree with you, but I love the way you write. Acceptance of different ideas is one of the big things that makes this world work.

Unbelievable -- and more than a little scarey. Surely there is something someone (i.e., the "authorities") can do. It must have been terrible for you to carry this around this last month. Remember how many friends and supporters you have -- people who would never be influenced by such garbage. There are thousands of us out here...let us know if there is any way we can help.

Time and again, I'm impressed by your strength, but above all, kindness. It's an honor to "know" you, and I hope that this trouble ends for you soon. Hang in there.

And I LOVE your Canada Day posts, so, somewhat ingraciously, I say this woman can suck it.

I'm so sorry you've had to struggle with this, Stephanie. You're a good person.

Good for you for keeping the blog going - I'm not sure how I'd summon the will to go on without it. :) It'll be my privilege to ignore her completely.

SO MUCH LOVE from San Francisco.
(And every American *I* know absolutely adores you.)

I am so, so, sorry you have to deal with this. I'm a Christian American Woman. TOTALLY WITH YOU, and I wish you all the best in further dealings with this problem.

I doubt I can say something that hasn't been said in the 500+ supportive and sincere comments before mine.
I suspect you probably won't have the opportunity to read this far down, normal life compounded by Sock Summit and all...

But I wanted to add my comments to the Number.

This isn't a time to be polite and note "it's been said, no need to comment". In this case it Needs to be said Thousands of More times. I want you to see the number of people that stepped up to say:
We're behind you. We admire you. We do not doubt your parenting skills or your choice of spouses or your many talents. Those of us that are True Americans revel and delight in your love of Canada - just as we love our own Country.
Fair's fair.

We're VERY sorry/embarrassed/annoyed/creeped out that some power-hungry bully is harrassing you.
Obviously she has no Clue about what the United States of America stands for and she truly needs to get a life (and some professional assistance).

I believe you've taken all the right paths. I also believe you are not dealing with a reasonable person so your efforts can not have a reasonable effect.

We shall do our level best NOT to react to/feed this persons delusions. She's not worth our time and she's taken up way to much of yours.
Oy - SERIOUS waste of some good knitting time.
E-hugs and Kudos to you for showing us the best of humanity.

Love, respect, and admiration for everything you do here. It takes a lot of courage to make this public, and I won't mention it on my blog either, no matter how much it makes me angry. You rock, and I hope that this post proves a release for all of the self-doubt this situation has caused. There is no need for any of it, from where I stand (tush firmly planted on American soil). You rock, and we all know it.

My dear YH. I am from the US. I love my country. But people like this make me weep for it. Any "anti-american" feelings out there are well earned IMO, largely by Ugly Americans like this woman. Stay strong, stay proud and know we love you. Your conduct regarding this lunatic are spot-on. Oh and I agree about the "Pussy" thing...sheesh. Besides she's very tame if she thinks that's the worst insult in the American playbook. I've got about ten things in my head right now when thinking about her that are far FAR worse. *grins*

As an American, I am sincerely sorry for all the rude comments you have received. I love your Canada Day posts and have never found them in poor taste or "anti-American". Love!

Steph, I have only rarely commented on your blog, but I have to say I'm very distressed that anyone could treat another person this way, and doubly distressed that it is one of my own countrywomen. She most definitely does not represent all of us! As for your Canada Day posts, I find them fascinating, as American schools do not spend a lot of time teaching Canadian history and politics so I'm woefully ignorant about my northern neighbors.

so sorry this has been going on -- I'm hoping (and praying) that you and your family get a good night's sleep tonight...

Stephanie, I am an American woman 68 years old and I love your books, your blog and You. You make me smile and laugh out loud. I admire you so much. This is the first time I have ever commented on your blog (or any blog for that matter). I read your blog every day that I am using my computer. Keep up the good work and I am sorry that you have this stalker harassing you. What she is doing is not "Christian" in any way shape or form.

After I was introduced to your blog I took the time to re-read it from the beginning, and I noticed the change in tone & topics from those early days. I figured it was because of your growing celebrity and, while I missed the homey stuff etc I thought I understood it. Now I realize what you've been faced with and the fact that you post at all is amazing to me. I am so sorry a fellow american is ranting on you. Hugs to you in sympathy.

wow. Just Wow.

As a fellow American, I just have to say that I am very sorry you are having to deal with this. As the rest of the comments before mine have said, you are awesome. I'm so sorry you're having to deal with this. ♥

Some people sincerely need to get a life.

On behalf of the vast majority of your Christian American fans, we love you.

Wow...
Yarn Harlot, you are my hero. It is so sad that somebody feels the need to be a bully. You are incredible and this woman needs help.
Rock on!

Oh dear - what an ugly American, making us other neighbors to Canada look so awful. I am so sorry for this nitwit offense to you, Stephanie. I wanted you to know how much I love your writing. Please know what huge amount of good you do for the rest of us. xxoo

love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love love

hope that helps!

You light up my life with your wonderful wit, wisdom, and sharing. I stand in admiration of your generosity of spirit, caring about the world around you, and constant giving in all that you do. Please stoke and hug your self-confidence and inner critic with these words. Rock on, Stephanie.

Like so many others, I have not posted previously. I must do so tonight to add my support and appreciation. I enjoy your blog, your books, and your approach to life and knitting. I am a U.S. citizen who has learned interesting things from your Canada Day blogs and has never felt threatened by anything you have said.

Trying to make good out of bad, I have just made my first donation to MSF in your honor.

Thanks for what you do to make the world a better place.

I have no idea what to say. I can only apologize as one American for my fellow citizen.

I hope that the light will stop this.

Love and many hugs and MUCH support from America's Heartland.

Ok, I won't fuel her fire with what I really think. But you need to know that I am a New Yorker and love your blog - and also was afraid you were going to stop - please don't! I often read your writings to my husband (not a knitter) because I think you are incredibly witty and enjoyable to lots more people than just knitters! Please know that there are LOTS and LOTS more of us and only ONE of her.

600 some comments later, I just have to reiterate much of what has been said here. I actually shared this post with my husband and we looked at each other with disgust and surprise at this person. Also, a big thank you...you are funny, witty, and a talented knitter.

For those of you who are leaving comments on "she who is not to be named's" blog, although I TOTALLY understand the urge, I think the comments here speak MUCH louder. Also, when possible, bad behavior should be ignored.

Ok, I won't fuel her fire with what I really think. But you need to know that I am a New Yorker and love your blog - and also was afraid you were going to stop - please don't! I often read your writings to my husband (not a knitter) because I think you are incredibly witty and enjoyable to lots more people than just knitters! Please know that there are LOTS and LOTS more of us and only ONE of her.

So sorry, Stephanie, that this lunatic has attached herself to you. As always, you are behaving as a lady and a rock. I am so proud of you for choosing the high road. In so many ways you have shown yourself as a role model deserving of admiration. Your family, your friends, and your public are a testament to your character.
I have pity for that poor, tortured soul. I hope she can find some peace inside herself and find the healing that she needs.

First time poster, long time reader. You shouldn't ever take anything this woman has to say to heart. I am ashamed that she calls herself an American! I think you are wonderful!

This American wishes you the best in dealing with this situation. You are a better person in every way.

Dearest Steph,
1. She's obviously wacko and it's sad...but it's not your problem.
2. Please take your own advice about not engaging: Don't even read her emails, PLEASE! It's just a lot of negative energy that you don't need swirling around you. Delete them and block her. Don't read her hateful words.
3. As they say on the lists, "Don't feed the Troll."

We love you and respect you, laugh with you, can't wait for the next book, and love reading about your famlly and parenting adventures (and I would never judge someone else's parenting!).

Blog on and best wishes for an ultra-successful SS09!!
SusanSW

Yowch.

Not a balanced person.

Bravo to you for going public. Do what you must. Try not to let the bully get you down.

I don't know that you are in physical danger, but you might want to get professional advice about that.

I plan to use your post as an advice to my teenagers about cyber-bullying.

I know support has been pouring in to you -- love your blog, love your books, I admire your clear thinking....

What comes AFTER SS09?

Just want to be sure my names on the "I support you" list. Love learning more about Canada from your blog. It's good for us. Expands the horizons. Hugs, Alice

Hey, could you use a beer-taster and DPN-armed bodyguard at SS? I could be on a plane tonight! (Sorry, it seemed you could use a laugh)

Just as if I were walking down the public street, I will try to have compassion for the obviously unbalanced person who is unable to "act normal" and flings her instability in onlooker's faces. In exchange for this uncharacteristic lack of response to an internet bully on my part, I beg that you take steps to be both safe AND happy.

You have striven to support your family and community, and to bring humor and joy to your readers. Only you, our Humble Harlot (and some whackjob we shall not speak of), are in any doubt that you have achieved this.

These are the people I so wish we could censor at a much baser level. Her sheer idiocy prevented me from reading everything you quoted from her. I really don't know how things would work with the country difference. I have a friend who does voice-work and a web-comic and got some very harassing emails, similar to what you've been suffering through. My friend talked with the authorities, and they talked with the harasser internet service provided and got their internet connection shut down. This was also 5 or 6 years ago, and may not be possible now.

You mentioned a call to the authorities at the beginning of your post, and I hope that they are aware of the situation. Right now she is an annoyance, but if she ever actually threatens you PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE promise us that you will report it to the authorities. With her claims of knowing where you live, any threats should be taken seriously, and action will be able to be taken.

I love your writings and truly don't feel you're anti-American (if you were, do you really think Homeland Security would let you travel here so often?). Your writing actually inspired me to take up knitting again. Knitting Rules has helped me become a more confident knitter (because of that book I have since learned to make socks and am not afraid to show off my knitting in public!)

I hope you and others who read this post do not think poorly of Americans, Christians, and Christian Americans because of the attitude of this one person.

May she grow tired of this before it gets dangerous, and may you persevere through it all.

Thank you for all that you've given to the knitting community!

Stephanie:

I love your blog. I think you're a wonderful person and I'm sorry you're having such a bad time. As an American I've always thought it was shameful that most of us don't know more about Canada and I did always wonder why there were only 13 original colonies in the U.S. when I knew there were some more northerly neighbors. I'm pleased you were able to explain some of it to me! I've learned quite alot about Canada from reading your posts and sometimes you even tell me things about the U.S. that I didn't know. I absolutely loved the Thomas Jefferson quote---I laughed over it for days. This poor woman who is bothering you is obviously demented. I hope she gets some psychiatric care soon.

Personally, I never understood how one could call oneself "Christian" & then spew forth such hurtful, awful sentiments. Not being terribly religious myself, it just seems perfectly hypocritical; pretty much the opposite of all Christian teaching. This person makes me embarrassed to be American (as if the Bush administration didn't give us enough reasons--just my opinion, disagree at will) and I offer apologies as an American for such rude behavior. If she were one of my kids, she'd be eating soap for a month. Minimum.

Hang in there, Stephanie.
I am an American Christian, and this person, whoever she is, does not speak for me.
She is apparently a different sort of Christian than I, for I believe that we should be good to each other. Furthermore, I believe that if the Jesus I follow was hanging out here on earth now, he'd probably be hanging out with knitter people and motorcycle people and homeless people, not people who knowingly set out to harm other people.
I will continue to buy your books because I like them. They make me laugh. You make me feel like it's OK to make goofy mistakes and bumble occasionally. I need that. Thank you, many times over, for that.
Peace, Karen

Stephanie,

I haven't read the entire avalanche of comments, so I don't know if someone else has suggested this, but could you hire someone, perhaps a security firm with a staff of employees, to screen the blog and your email 24/7 so you never have to read anything again from the harassing poster?

That would give you back your normal life and the time to work on what you want to work on. Also, removing yourself from the line of fire might take away the satisfaction of the game for the harasser, if she understands that her comments and emails are all consigned to an anonymous wastebasket in cyberspace by people who don't care what she writes. And I do hope that the authorities you consulted included law enforcement.

Wishing you peace of mind and spirit. Hang in there.

Stephanie, this is awful. Bravo to you. But I know what it is like to have your self-esteem trampled on. Cuts to your core.
You mentioned having talked to the 'authorities' - I assume you meant law enforcement types. I hope so. Her communications to you seem to constitute 'harassment' and needs to be dealt with as such. I suspect the cross-border aspect to this would make things difficult. But, nevertheless....
As an American, I am embarrassed by this person. It is a very troublesome thing to see what she is doing in the name of 'patriotism'. And as a Christ-follower, my heart breaks for both her shameful behavior, and for the hurt it causes you.
You are in my prayers as you deal with this issue. I pray for your protection, also.
Love & hugs & prayers fm this side of the border.

I've come to realize (after 11 years of retail) that some people are just crazy, and angry, & ready to take it out on anyone that crosses their paths. So sorry that you're bearing the brunt of it! Also, these are the sort of folks that made my best friend (who lives in the UK) afraid for years to admit that she was an American - for a while she just let people think she was Canadian :).

Another American who lurks and loves you. I am old enough to be your grandmother (great grandmother?). You honor the knitting community with your writings.

I am embarrassed that this woman is a fellow American. You are a thoroughly charming, enchanting and inspiring woman, knitter and fiber artist. You do not deserve at any level to have to deal or worry about people like this woman, especially not on your blog, for which you pay. She is entitled to like, or not like, your blog, you and your books (or your knitting for that matter). She is NOT entitled to invade your space (I consider your blog your space) with her foul nastiness.

You did well, Stephanie. She does not speak for the rest of us. Hang in there.

Cripes! I am sorry this is happening to you. Thank you for sharing with us. It seems unbelievable that someone can be so angry, taking everything personally. So sad that you have to deal with this... You bring so much joy and fun to my life. Thanks Stephanie.

Love to the nth from another Christian American woman. You are doing the right thing.
hugs hugs hugs.

Dear Stephanie,

Please do not hold this person against us. Coming from a Catholic American, she does NOT represent us in any way or form! I love your blog and have introduced it to many, many other people. It quite often gives me the laugh out loud that I need. (It's also strangely comforting to know that there are people out there as obsessed with knitting as I am...)

We all just need to remember that we are not clones and that the world would be a lot more boring if there weren't so many different people, traditions, and beliefs. Diversity is the essence of creativity! There's so much to learn from others and no one deserves to be treated like this.

Thoughts and prayers are going out to you and your family. May the happiness the you've brought to so many other people come your way soon!

I think disengagement is very wise. We should all ignore her. I am hoping that you are able to get an anti-harassment or restraining order against you. She sounds quite unstable.

This breaks my heart to see. I'm so sorry that this has been going on and I'm glad you decided to make your end public as she seemed hell bent to make hers. Your Zen nature is inspiring because I don't believe I could be as non confrontational as you have been.

Also, speaking as an American and an incredibly patriotic one, I have seen nothing wrong with your comments on America. Not to mention, you spend more time touring in our country (to sold out venues and packed yarn shops, I might add, no small feat for a knitting humor writer.) than you do your own it seems.

Knitting is, or rather, should be beyond national identity. I had always assumed knitters were countrymen regardless of geographical locations.

This woman, however, is definitely not in my tribe.

I have never posted on a blog before, but I am so sorry that an American is acting in such a nasty way and had to say something. I admire you for taking the higher ground, much more Christian than the person criticizing you. Jesus would never have acted like that! I am a Christian, a liberal Christian, and don't agree with any of what I see that person has said. Americans certainly don't have one opinion, and that she thinks she can speak for all of us, is ludicrous!
I love your books. They make me laugh and then something poignant touches me and makes me thoughtful. I read chapters of your books to my knitting group and we all laugh and see ourselves or someone we know. Don't let the turkeys get you down, keep doing your thing. I admire and respect you.
BTW, I am so anxious for Sock Summit and taking your class, see you in Portland soon!

Hug to you, Stephanie, for having to deal with people like that (and in the middle of SS stuff now, too!). She really sounds mentally unstable. Hang in there!

Stay strong and know that your readers in the southern hemisphere have your back while you sleep.

Oh Stephanie,
I almost cried by the end of your post - what a mean-spirited, small-minded (gah!!!) to treat you that way. Having scrolled through all the comments it's easy to see that I'm not the only one who appreciates your humor, knowledge, and candor (and not just for knitting posts, either!). "At Knit's End" was the first non-pattern book I bought when I re-learned to knit and I've purchased all your other books since.
Be safe. Hug Joe and the girls. Knit/spin something nice. Be well.

1. This is typical ranting from a bully and a right-wing fanatic who thinks that if you're not wearing flag underwear, you're a pinko commy faggot.
2. I'm an American and she does NOT represent me.
3. Seconds on the stalking, illegal stuff. File as many forms with as many authorities as possible.
4. Thanks for letting us know about it.
5. As we say down here in the South: "That is just plain TACKY!"
6. My sock that you rubbed with your sock mojo down in Fairhope? Will never be washed or worn again and am seriously thinking about framing it in a shadow box.
7. Keep your head up. We love you.

I'm sorry this is happening to you. Please PLEASE be safe.

As an American who has lived over half my life in states that border Canada - I love your post for getting to know different aspects of Canada. Your Canada Day posts always are wonderful and interesting, please continue to do that post. I have hiked and canoed in Canada more than visiting any of the cities. After your trip to Nova Scotia I put that area on my list of places to visit - it is the only provence that I haven't been in yet.

Very personally, I adore the posts that you put up on your daughters birthdays. I just finished unsuccessful fertility treatments and wish that I would have had the honor to post such lovely and honest sentiments on a child's birthday. Thank you for allowing me to have a small look into your life.

Thank you for continuing to blog. Love and light your direction.

Long-time reader, first-time blog-commenter! I check your blog everyday. You're funny, kind, interesting, and all about yarn. YARN, for the love of Pete. I'm ignoring what's-her-name but continue to think you're fabulous and a breath of fresh air in my otherwise crazy kid, work, yarn-filled life.

Oh, Internets. I guess you've hit the big time now, Steph: apparently no blog is really famous until it's had it's first stalker.

But, as the internet says so often, f*** the haters. You have made me laugh and sometimes cry and learn some new things, here and in person. I feel privileged to have this little window into your life and to have met you twice, and I hope the next time you come 'round with a book I get to do it all over again.

There's an awful lot of light here right now, and I hope it's helping. Much love to you and your family.

Oh Stephanie,
I almost cried by the end of your post - what a mean-spirited, small-minded (gah!!!) to treat you that way. Having scrolled through all the comments it's easy to see that I'm not the only one who appreciates your humor, knowledge, and candor (and not just for knitting posts, either!). "At Knit's End" was the first non-pattern book I bought when I re-learned to knit and I've purchased all your other books since.
Be safe. Hug Joe and the girls. Knit/spin something nice. Be well.

PS I'm an American, too, and we upstanding citizens don't take to kindly to bullying, cyber or otherwise.

I hope very much that your anonymouse jerkface
a) gets help
b) recognizes that her millions of fellow Americans do not want her speaking on their behalf
c) realizes that actual genuine 'good Christian folk' probably don't go around wreaking petty enraged vendettas via the internet, and
d) ceases and desists.

I second/third/millionth the comments above saying good for you; good for you for posting and showing yourself to be so much better a human being than it would be very easy to be in such a situation as this.

This woman is mentally ill. Her illness and obsession has nothing to do with you. Look up Borderline Personalities - it'll be very familiar.

We love you!!
Yet another American

Thanks so much for the dedication and patience you show in every post. Your blog renewed my interest in knitting and got me through the two longest months in my life. (Two months is about how long it took to catch up.) I'm sorry you are going through something like this, and I greatly admire how you are handling it. You're amazing.

Hugs!! Hope your tension hasn't changed during this. It would be real sucky to have to rip out and reknit. :)

I'm a native Minnesotan/naturalized Texan, and I have never taken offense at any of your Canada Day blogs (or any other of your blogs, for that matter). In fact, I have learned so much about Canada from them.

I'm sorry you are being harassed; please know that this woman does not speak for the rest of us.

Wow, a knitting inspiration AND an inspiration to be the bigger person. Thanks.

I'm a transplanted Canadian living in the US and so I'm switching between offense and embarassment in regards to that woman.

Sadly, she reminds me of someone I know, whom I strongly suspect of being mentally ill. Good for you for not fueling the deranged fire.

Long time American reader here, though I may have only posted one time before (maybe). I am so sorry that this person has focused thusly on you. Your blog is great. Funny, witty, informative, great fun to read. Keep up the FANTASTIC blog! :)

WOW! I'm sorry this is happening. As a side note, I don't think you are anti-American at all. I live in Alaska, and if posting about Canada makes you anti-American, than my blog is probably that as well. I post ALL the time about how much I love Alaska and how I could never live anywhere else. I celebrate Alaska Day and sometimes I even make up Alaskan holidays just to celebrates its awesome-ness. I hope you are able to take care of this. I will see you at Sock Summit!! I got into your class and I'm incredibly excited... alright, enough babble. Feel better. You are incredible.

Ok. When I started this comment you only had 665 comments, meaning that I get to be the DEVIL COMMENT!!! aka Comment of Satan. Yippee!

Now, back to WHY I was commenting. Don't get me started on what I think about 'Christians'. People like that woman are what make me embarrassed to be an American sometimes. They make me cringe. Well, they make me do more than that actually. I think you know how much support you really do have and how many people enjoy and admire you. You're a strong, intelligent woman and people recognize it. Crap like what that woman is spewing can get to you after a while. I'm glad you voiced it. Its so much easier to deal with out in the open and I'm sure that now that people are on the lookout for her kind of crazy she'll actually be too scared to continue. Keep your chin up!

I'm sorry this is happening to you. I don't want to make you paranoid, but please be careful! Let's hope her harrassment, while awful, is limited to cyberspace.

Stephanie, all I can say is that you have my support and admiration. I hope this stops soon.

I am a conservative christian,people like this give us all a bad name and I am proud of you for the way you are handling this don't let the crazies get you down.

I'm shocked beyond belief. I have heard people speak of "cyber stalking" but WOW. This is out of hand and I just saw some of the twitter posts from her. I have often worried about how people are more frequently using the internet to speak ill of others or to degrade themselves in some manner without concern for the consequences. It amazes me that she does this so freely and willingly.
My prayers are with you and your family. If nothing else you have shown all of us that have blogs or other internet presence that we have to be ready in case of attack. Thank you for making this issue public. I know it was difficult but I have no doubt that it was necessary.

As I an American myself, I'm embarrassed for this woman. And how dare she go so far as to assume that all Americans agree with her, because I am one who doesn't! That's pretty insulting to me. I saw you when you were in Los Angeles, you were fantastic. I don't know what this woman's gripe is, but isn't she risking getting in trouble with the law?

My love and thoughts are with you and your family. I wish you peace and strength.

Thank you for the work you do -- the positive, community-building yarn-related work, and the Canada Day work. As someone from the US, I've learned more about Canada from your posts than I ever did in school.

I admire you, lady. Keep up the good work. You've got a whole host at your back.

She gives Americans, Christians, and women in general a bad name. You are a trooper for putting up with her for this long. I think all of your loyal readers would be more than willing to just ignore her ignorance. It just amazes me the personal vendettas some people will go on. I mean, what is she really hoping to accomplish? Bring down your "empire"? Slander your well established name? Honestly, some people...

I am so sorry that you're having to deal with this nitwit who has chosen to serve as a shining example of the Ugly American. Please remember that the majority of us love you dearly and would love to have you over for dinner sometime. If your bully must get Biblical about it, I'd reminder that you reap what you sow.

Thank you for maintaining Grace under Fire.

The U.S. just like any other country has its share of crazies. I won't apologize for them. What really embarrasses me is that this person is a knitter. I have been reading your blog for quite awhile and you are well traveled on the high road. Keep it up. I hope the incredible show of support reflected in the comments helps.

Wow, it takes all kinds eh?

I'm sorry you have to deal with this, but I'm really glad it's not stopping you from what you do best. (Well fourth best after knitting, parenting and of course "rescuing" your husband!)

And your parenting? I often find myself wondering WWTYH do in both knitting and parenting situations!

Keep on keeping on - and come East again soon!

I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. I just want to also say that I am an American knitter, and she is giving (some of us) a bad name. Your blog is the only knitting blog I read, keep up the great work even in the hard times!

Wow, her emails/comments are horrifying - they made me gasp out loud, I can only imagine what you're NOT sharing with us. I'm truly sad that your generosity has inspired such malice. I've always thought of your blog as this amazing gift that you share with all of us, and me and my family of muggles has enjoyed reading it for years.

I hope sharing this does indeed give you some relief, as I can only imagine how stressful the last month of this must have been.

Peace, Love & Light always

Sorry you are having to deal with this. I read your blog every day and comment very rarely. I have never been offended, however I am English and living the the US. I do realize that some people in the US have a different sense of humour.

If someone reads something on your blog, which for some reason they do not like, why do they keep reading???

sorry that this happened to you Stephanie..I know that if there were more people like you and less people like her, the world would be a better place, no matter which countries you were living in at the time. I would trust you to babysit my kids if I had any, because I can tell that you are a good person through and through. And pllleeeaasssee don't let her even touch your self esteem for one second. And seriously..what has SHE accomplished that is so great that she can be critisizing you..I would bet alot of money on the answer to that being ..nothing.

I too was SO afraid you were going to shut down the blog - thank you for hanging with it because it always starts my day out right when I click on the bookmark (right on my home page!) and find you have posted an entry. I love your humor.

I also love your pride in your country - too many Americans think Canadians are just poor relatives to them. So I thank you for posting your Canada Day musings! (My SIL is from Calgary.)

I was also so very impressed by your daughter and her boyfriend's dedication to their project! Wow, I thought at the time, how many parents are able to raise their children to care about others! These days teenagers are so focused on themselves, it is so refreshing to see these two young adults focused on others. You and your husband have done a great job!

Hang in there. I love the point about the Sock Summit - sure, you're being shunned. Right. That's why people were fighting and angry about not getting a ticket!

US citizen - expat in Thailand - supporting you all the way (oh, and conservative Christian who cannot believe the poster has any idea of what Christ actually taught!)

Riki in Bangkok

I'm so very sorry that you're being trolled. My household loves your blog and your books. We think you are smart, funny, and humane. I was very sorry to miss your last visit to Seattle (although I made up for it (in my heart) by giving your appearance a really enthusiastic blurb on the metblog.) I hope Seattle was good to you!

Stephanie, you are a good, strong, wise woman. I support you wholly. Thank you for being who you are.

Love, Jill

Stephanie, I am so sorry that this is happening to you. I love your blog and you can't help the crazies. You are loved and appreciated by many, including me. I'll think some happy thoughts and well wishes up north to you and your family.

Stephanie, You've done a brave thing, and I'm sorry for the abuse you've taken. Keep your chin up and keep doing what you do best. Your humanity shines through. Love, Dani in Texas

Oh Steph, I'm sorry to hear this is going on. Try not to worry about her. Just keep doing the right thing and eventually she will disappear. Poor thing, she really does sound miserable.
Take care, Steph. We love you. :-)

Like many others I am a lurker coming out of the shadows :) Just wanted to say that you are awesome! I love your books and reading your blog is something I always look forward to. I hope all this is resolved to a point you are happy with and soon! I recently dealt with a horrible person that treated me like crap through e-mail too. It really sucks. You are truly the bigger person for not responding as she says you are.

Many hugs Steph! There seems to be an outbreak of this sort of thing right now. G-d only knows why. Keep on keeping on --

an American Jewish lurker fan

Sounds like a great plan!

I think you are funny, a sensible and good parent, have a lovely family and I enjoy reading both your blog and your books.

I have never heard you put anyone down because of nationality, religion or any other characteristic. So I do not understand this person and I'm with you in not feeding her obvious need for attention.

Just adding my support! There's no accounting for people sometimes. I cannot even begin to imagine how anyone could think you were anti-american, or that... No, there's just too much that's too impossible to understand. Thank you for being a force for good in this world! I hope this woman gets the help she needs to also become a force for good, for building relationships and for peace, rather than this tearing down she's so focused on. --Sydney, in Oregon

Sending you lots of love and virtual beer (wish it could be real).

I hope all our positive thoughts help release her from this hate-on she's got going.

Stay strong.

As another American Christian, I'm mortified that this woman claims to be representative of us all.

I have to say, if either party is acting like Jesus here, it's you. ;) Keep up the good work.

I can't believe some people - the ignorance and downright nastiness people can get away with these days boggles the mind. From one proud Canadian to another, you keep doing your thing - obviously enough of us love you that our praise will drown out the one or two naysayers. :)

Just wanted to send you my support.
I'm sorry that this happened to you.
I was on the receiving end of something like this a year or so ago - and it was pretty confidence shattering. Don't give up. Keep writing. Don't let her get to you. You are great. Hugs to you.
xx

Another supporter for you in California. Keep up your good work! Love your blog, read it every day you post and love your books too. Keep doing what you do and don't let the b**** get you down!

Dearest Harlot, I've been an avid reader (of blogs and books) for a number of years, and I'm *so* sorry for this wretchedness! Your bravery is commendable, your respect -- something to be emulated by all. Your fabulous sense of humor enlivens and lightens my day, and I (like many others) am terribly grateful for your voice. I'm sending you light, love, and peace. Hang in there, Steph. --Emily, in Massachusetts

Stephanie, I just found this woman's blog and just so you know, she has a history of doing this. Actually, I have a folder of harassing emails from her to me on my computer. For doing nothing. So just know that she's just a sad person and go on with your life. She'll find another victim. Or, contact the authorities and have her investigated for harassment. If you need more proof I'm happy to share my emails.

Great Googly Moogly! Stay strong and keep up the great work. I'm sorry you're going through this, just know that so many of us have your back.

Your posts have made me smile almost daily, laugh out loud on occasion, and even snarf once or twice.

For the fact that you have done that - while putting up with I-have-no-idea-what weirdness - I sincerely thank you.

(And, I can't think of a single time I've ever been offended.)

I'm speechless! How awful. As with other previously posted Christian Americans, I'm behind you 100%. Keep up the great work. Luv your Canadianess. {{{{HUGS}}}}

I'm another female, American, liberal, godless heathen and I think you are handling this so much better than I would. I'm from smack dab in the middle of the bible belt and we seem to breed teh crazy here, I've dealt with it in person as well as online and I know how bad it sucks. I have to echo what some other people have commented: report her to her ISP, they won't like it that one of their customers is using their service to harass someone.

I love your Canada Day posts, I learn more about Canada in them than I did the entire time I was in school.

I am so sorry you are having to deal with this. You are doing a fine job being a grown-up about the whole thing. Stay strong, keep the faith.

I am so sorry that this is happening to you. You have enough stress on your plate without someone else adding to it. I am an American and a Christian who happens to be a liberal, and I am embarrassed and saddened not only by what this person has said but in how she has hounded you. I'm so sorry that you and your family are going through this.

Stephanie, your post today moved me to tears. As someone who has also experienced a similar situation, I understand how easy it is to let it get to you and obsess over it. I truly admire you for you grace and compassion. Your blog is a bright spot in my day. Stay safe!

And as someone has already pointed out, if I remember my geography lessons correctly, Canada, the US, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, Argentina, Panama, etc. are all part of America.

I don't comment often, because it's not in my nature, but I'm really very very sorry that someone is doing this to you :( I'm not the most patriotic American, but I saw absolutely nothing "anti-American" in anything you've ever written (and given the political climate I've lived in for the last 8 years, I can smell anti-American from a mile away!)

You are a wonderful person. Since I don't comment, I never told you that reading your blog, then Knitting Rules, are two of the things that made knitting a deep part of my life, instead of just a fringe act.

Hate sucks. I can't imagine the pressure you're under right now but know that there may be one whacko out there, but there are thousands -- maybe even tens of thousands -- of us out there that love you and are grateful to you.

In a world of hurting people and situations, I'm sorry you're another person that is being hurt. As many have said here, that person is not representative of all US citizens.

And there's a group of us in I-O-W-A that adore you, will feed you lots of fresh veg, cold home brews, and ply you with delicious yarn (pun intended).

Thanks to all of the American coming out of lurk-dom to support our favourite Canadian knitter. Stephanie, I read your blog all the time (and sometimes read posts twice LOL).

I feel sorry for this woman and think it's pretty clear that she's in the middle of some kind of a breakdown. I'm sorry you're the target of her delusions, that must be so scary, especially since you're a public figure. OMG is the the one who said you shouldn't drink beer in public?

Hugs, be assured we love you and respect the hell out of you. May squirrels attack her stash ;)

xox from Winnipeg

Another American here to say that you are wonderful. You make me laugh, inspire me to creativity, and generally make me happy to be alive and able to knit. I'd say the majority of American knitters have fallen in love with you and, well, there's bound to be some haters out there. There always are. Hopefully this outpouring of support from your fanbase has fortified your confidence, (especially in true American values such as RESPECT, EQUALITY, and FREEDOM.) Proud to be an American who loves The Yarn Harlot!

well clearly some one is completely coo coo.

hope to see you at the summit.

I am so sorry that this happening to you! Being harassed in any way disrupts your life and will haunt you long after it ends. Please don't take this crazy as a representative for your southern neighbors. She is not only being a terrible example of an American and Christian, but a human being in general. I hope the hurt and hate goes away soon and you are able to resume your life.

I applaud your strength! There are many standing behind you who believe in you and know you aren't anti-US.

As an Atheist Australian living in the US, I have to say, I've come across far more people like those posting in your blog today/this evening - they might not share my political/religious/social views or country affiliation, but they'd defend to the death my right to have those views. They understand that that ideology is the bedrock of the US nation and constitution.

The mentally unstable few, very few, do not speak for the majority.

So very glad you're not, as an Australian politician said, letting the bastards get you down! (Where bastards does not equal someone from the US, but rather the mean and the deranged).

Knit On!

This person is giving crazy a bad name, and I'm terribly sorry she's chosen you as her target.

I've honestly never seen any of your posts as anti-anything, except perhaps anti-stupidity & short sightedness, and well, I tend to agree with those ones.

You, Steph, rock. I don't think that knitting (and certainly not sock knitting) would have had half its renaissance without people getting their daily dose of Harlot.

Hang in there, and remember that for the one f*cked up person out in cyberspace who's got a wild hair for you, there seem to be a large number of people who disagree.

I've read your blog for years and have found you to be only the following:

Intelligent
Well spoken
Kind to others
A fabulous knitter
Witty
Generous

I think you have handled things so well. Best of luck in the future....

I'm with Roggey! Iowa loves you!

I wanted to put my two cents in and give you my support. While I don't always agree with your views on the world (knitting on the other hand I take your advice whole heartedly), as a true American I support your right to not only have those views but express them as well.

Don't let a rotten apple get to you.

As a long time reader and first time poster I wanted to do something positive to support you. Therefore, in tribute to your kind heart and gentle spirit, I have written a check to Doctors Without Borders.

Oh, Stephanie. Huge hugs to you. Hang in there. Hold your head up. Be brave. Know that most of us down here in the U.S. love you. Hugs.

I agree with all the love in the above comments and would like to add a little humor. To be call a pussy is actually quite a compliment. A soft, warm, life giving, love making, center of the universe is exactly what you are to all of us!

Oh, and when we someday become the American Union of Countries; I will elect you Chancelor of Fiber, Empress of Needles and Hostess with the Mostest (Beer Queen).

Kisses from Texas, AKA BioBetty on the Rav

wow. i don't even know what to say, i am shocked by this person's behavior. especially coming from a knitter, but overall just from a supposed human being. thank you for writing this post and letting us send you virtual hugs to help you through this icky time. i do hope a)this is resolved very soon; b) she gets a life and leaves you alone.

Stephanie,

I hope you can take the time to read all the encouraging responses to this post.

I learned a long time ago from my grandmother to take the high road and totally ignore a person who acts the way this one is acting. There is nothing more devastating to them than to be treated as if they don't exist.

Please take the shields of positive thoughts we offer you to absorb her negativity. Also, please remember she is only one of millions of Americans as well as one of millions of Christians.

Now get on with that work you do so well, bringing smiles and inspiration to the world.

Stephanie,
I am so sorry that you had to go through this. Please know that we love you and appreciate you and your blog! I wish I could help! I doubt this person is really a knitter, and if she is, she probably knits really ugly stuff that no one likes or thanks her for.
xoxo
Maggie

From looking at her blog (which wasn't that hard to find through Google,) I believe she is a person who suffers from manic depression and/or some other mental illness. Unfortunately, you have become a focus for her latest episode. Keep her posts and emails for your records and document everything, just in case.

I also support your request that we should not respond to her. It will only feed into her paranoia, as evidenced by her reaction to you when people comment on her blog. I hope that everyone here takes a moment to pray/hope that she gets the help she needs soon. Mental illness is an insidious thing. I wouldn't wish it on my greatest enemy.

Ma'am, I'm sorry completely that she's doing this to you. I've read your Canadian day posts and have no idea where she's getting the anti American stuff. Please know that not all conservative Christian Americans are not like this at all. Praying for you from GA

I haven't even finished the post and her use of 'we' and 'us' disgusts me. Everyone is allowed their own opinion but that is not opinion, that is just hate. It is nasty and completely childish and a good christian, like she claims to be, would never, ever say something like that. As a Minnesota native I love having neighbors to the north! I love your Canada Day posts because I get to learn a little bit more about another country's culture. Please keep up your fabulous work and for the record, you are not irrelevant. You basically have the knitting industry's version of the 'Oprah Touch'.

Stephanie, I am so sorry this has happened to you. I am an American Christian, and I can tell you that this person is no Christian. "You will know them by their fruits." In addition, I want to tell you that your little book, At Knit's End, helped me through the most horrenduos time of my life. I read a little every day, got a laugh, and also appreciated the quotes! I still read parts of it frequently. I have called up friends in trouble and cheered them up when they needed it most. Keep up the blogging, the writing and everything else you do so well!

Love the blog, love the books. You've been incredibly patient.

You seem to have subscribed to what my grandma used to tell us, "If you can't say anything good about somebody, better to say nothing at all." Too bad that simple courtesy has been forgotten by some.

Unfortunately someone seems to be perpetuating the image of the "ugly American."

I met you briefly at a book signing outside of Nashville once, but I've only lurked on your blog all these years. I'm posting today to let you know that I fully support you and your position.

And what the hell is a 'respectable knitter'. Aren't we all respectable?

... and since everyone here is talking about religion and nationality, I'm a French Buddhist.

*hugs* I'm sorry. Let us never speak of this again.

Now, how about some socks, huh?

Well, I am an American who just loves you to pieces.

Stephanie,
I am so sorry that someone is doing this to you - you don't deserve it. I am a Christian American and I do not in any way, shape, or form, share her views. Keep on writing what you write and making me laugh. I don't care how you were married or by who and I most certainly do not care that you are Canadian. You are a knitter, a wife, a mother, and quite simply a person and that is all that matters.

Oh, and for the record, my big strong husband who judging from the photos you have posted of Joe is every bit as big as he is - managed to get our tractor - yes you read that correctly - our tractor - stuck in the snow this past winter and had to ask me to come out and help him get it unstuck. The story about Joe getting his truck stuck in the snow definitely riveled the story about you getting locked out of your hotel room in your panties and a t-shirt. I laughed until I had tears running down my face and then I read it to my husband who laughed just as hard.

Ignore her - you are among friends, American, Canadian, Christian, Atheist, agnostic, whatever - you are among friends.
Kim

I just wanted to add that this lady really sounds like she's very fragile. I think you should be careful and also go to the police. There is no telling what some people will do - especially when hundreds of people are calling them crazy in a public forum. I think she needs someone to help her - and she must be feeling some big stuff right now as well. I think it's important to tell the police so that they can help everyone.

I'll just join all the rest of the lurkers in de-lurking to voice my support. Thanks for your great writing; it always makes me smile.

This person is a poor example of:

1. A Christian
2. An American
3. A knitter
4. A blogger
5. A human

so sorry Steph. How embarrassing an awful to have to deal with this. We love you. You have done the right thing. :)

I really enjoy reading your blog, tweets and books. Please keep them coming and don't get discouraged. What you do matters to so many. I have always found you to be kind, inspiring, positive and humorous.

Much love from California.

Just have to chime in that you are a lovely, funny, gracious, creative, generous person, both in writing and in real life, and I'm sorry this person has been tormenting you and hope they get some help with their own personal issues, whatever those may be. Because certainly, none of this is due to you at all. I also agree that you should go to the police - the mention that they know where you live, know who your publisher is, etc, is very alarming and needs to be taken seriously.

As a woman, a wiccan, and an american, I am appalled at this behaviour (<---see what I did there?). I thought the troll on my blog was bad, but this takes the cake. I caved and stopped posting, but I am *very* glad that you will continue to post and to allow comments. Thank you. When I read posts on other people's blogs, I click away and let it go if I find it upsetting or silly or disagreeable. I never see the good in wasting energy trying to rile someone. I hope your troll will find a more wholesome application of her energy, and soon!

All my canadian friends were very impressed when I wished them happy Canada Day this year. Your post reminded me.

I hope you will be safe at Sock Summit in your handknit Kevlar vest... that is your stealth project, right???

Wow, that is a whole lotta mental illness right there.

I'm sorry you've had to deal with this. Is it possible to mark her as a spammer somehow? I know that Shapely Prose bans commenters when necessary, though I don't know if they have any trolls as obsessive as yours.

Hang in there and enjoy the sock summit.

(((hugs)))

from someone who understands that when my husband says he thinks buxom brunettes are pretty he doesn't mean petite blonds are ugly. :-)
rita n/

It's behavior and attitudes like that which give Americans such a poor reputation around the world. She should be ashamed.

I think you're fantastic-- please keep on keepin' on. We love ya!

My dearest Stephanie

Thank you for bringing this horrible problem to the attention of all of us who read your blog, regularly or irregularly. It is much better to defy the intent of a person like this by shedding light on the situation. It must have been difficult to do that, but the huge volume of supportive commentary is evidence of how much you are esteemed by so many in the fiber world.

Like you, I have a chorus of "bad voices" telling me how bad I am, how worthless, that someone wouldn't say like that unless there really were something wrong with me, etc, ad infinitum, ad nauseam.

I have a new tactic with those voices; I teach them songs that I love. So, whenever I hear those negative things in my head, I tell them to sing (whatever song I feel like at the moment). I'm sure you have had a tune stuck in your head. My friend, Peg in Kensington (of the comments), says we need a product called "Tune Be Gone" if someone would only invent it! My technique takes advantage of that tendency, it sticks a beloved tune in your head instead of the negative voices. Amazingly, I find it wonderfully effective. Give that a try.

This person isn't playing with a full deck. For that, I pity her. There (sort of), but for the grace of God, go a number of us, or we would go if it were not for modern medications. Thank God for the people who developed those meds! However, don't let it go without doing what you can for your own defense and that of your loved ones.

M. Scott Peck wrote a book called "People of the Lie." Its premise is that there should be a new diagnosis in the book the therapists use, the diagnosis of evil. It is a compelling book and makes some very good points, although the last chapter, if I remember correctly, goes a bit off the rails, to my mind. But I have seen people who fit that description, and it is scary. Peck was not only a writer and therapist, he was a Christian and tried to bring faith into therapy where appropriate. He also wrote "The Road Less Traveled."

MOST IMPORTANT
A fair number of people in the comments have suggested, rather firmly, that you bring in the authorities. I CONCUR. Do not wait. Do not pass GO. Go directly to the authorities on BOTH sides of our common border. Even better, you should go to the authorities with a LEGAL PROFESSIONAL at your side and in your corner. You MUST protect yourself and your family. Do not assume that she will always remain "safe". There's an old New York saying, "In New York, paranoia is a survival skill." Sometimes, that's true in Toronto, too.

Dear Lady of the Knitting Needles,
Stay safe, be kind to yourself and those around you. So many of us do love and admire you. We would have your back, were it physically possible. On a spiritual level, we're there, Harlot, we're there.

May God bless you and keep you, both now and forever more.

dee near Berkeley

Stephanie-
As a proud Christian-American, I am so very sorry that this evil person has been harassing you to the extent that she has been. That's what it's been, harassment!!! That behaviour is reprehensible. I hope that you know just how much we love and respect you and enjoy your writings!!!

Dang, I must not read your blog carefully enough -- I missed all your anti-American comments ;-)

That woman has some severe problems. As awful as it is to have to deal with her, think how awful it must be to BE her. Makes me cringe.

I love you for taking the high road (as you always do). {{{hugs}}}

Her emails and comments say far more about her than they do about you. You have behaved honorably and I totally support you. She is obviously a very unhappy person, and if she'd spend half as much time on working through her issues as she does flaming you and giving you a hard time then maybe there would be some hope for her. Maybe.

Oh my dear, I am sorry you have to experience this. Thoughts are with you.

Please, as another computer security geek, please take this seriously. Keep hard and soft copies of everything. Communicate with her ISP as many times as it takes. Keep your ISP provider in the loop. Set up as many filters as necessary. And please, please make sure not only your local police are aware, but since you are so publicly traveling, let the local leos know in cities you will be (hint, hint, SS09) in for extended periods. Just because she has a history of this, that doesn't mean she may not become dangerous. Especially if your fans do as you ask (and seem to be doing) by ignoring her, her comments and her blog. Please stay safe.

And I can't imagine anyone with more grit than we women of Texas (you don't MESS with Texas Women!), and frankly she doesn't speak for me or anyone I know, or would care to know.

(delurking for the very first time, but just felt compelled to insist this really is a serious issue)

You are so much a better person than I am. I have always believed that anonymous pot shots are lower than whale poop, and getting even is not good enough - one up is much better. You could let us know who she is. Then the wrath of the good knitting goddesses would be able to come down on her with all their pointy little sticks, make voodoo dolls for dropped stitches and super wash skeins with a million knots that could not be spit spliced together, lost pattens for ufo's, and general knitting mayhem for all her projects could be sent her way.

P.S - A "true" christian woman would be like any woman, man or human with any sense of humanity - they would have compassion and love in their heart, not batsh*t crazy.

How appalling. I'm impressed at the grace & maturity with which you've handled this; I can tell you, I don't think I'd be able to deal with it as well as you have. Thanks for being even more inspiring than normal!

I'm very sad that this women used the pronoun "we" in this message. Her views represent none of my American, Christian, knitter!!'s views.
BUT, and this is an important but, the comment count before I post this was 767, and seems to be going up so quickly. I think that it's safe to say that we, your supporters, those who love your work, are the far greater "we". Reading your post, I was so worried that you might say that you were ready to stop posting to the blog. I'm so happy that you're sticking with it. I (and I think that I can also say "We"!) are with you all the way.

Good for you! I've read your blog religiously since I discovered it a few months ago. I'm American and have never felt any anti-Americanism from you. Good luck with the whole situation. Try not to let it get to you.

A month? No one deserves to be treated that way! I am speechless at such bad behavior. It does not fall under the creed of "do unto others as you would have done to you..." I hope you take whatever actions are necessary to protect yourself and your family. I will be praying for you and yours.

I'm so very sorry for you and your family (waaaay inappropriate for her to go there).
Keep up all the good work. I wonder how much good she could accomplish if she redirected her energy. and yes, get some legal advice -- if she does tire of going after you, she may direct her attention to someone else, and I'm betting you wouldn't wish that on them. best wishes from Seattle.

I am an infrequent poster, but I read your blog daily and buy your books. I am very sorry that this is happening --- it has very little to do with you. I admire the way you are handling it. BTW, I am a proud American who is not always proud of Americans' behavior. I know that you won't hold that against us! Lots of love for you here in Cali!

Steph,

I have to say I'm not really surprised by all of this. I saw a comment a few days ago that was insanely insulting but was removed. So I figured something had to be up. I can't imagine being on the receiving end of this kind of bile, hatred and rants. It's easy to say, just ignore it, but it's hard to actually do so. That inner voice knows exactly what to say to erode our confidence.

What is most distressing to me is that this lone individual has decided that they are the voice of America and that they speak for all Americans. As an American citizen I am embarrassed by this individual. As I'm sure many other Americans are as well.

This could not have been easy for you, or your family. But I think what you have done is the right thing to do. The truth will set you free and you have brought this out in the open so there is no doubt to what this person is doing. She is seeking attention, she is looking for reactions, from you as well as from us. To all of Stephanie's supporters, we best serve Stephanie by not engaging this person.

Time will heal these wounds. You are an incredible person who is surrounded by love and support. Keep knitting, keep writing all those stories that we love to hear about. One of these day we are gonna get you to come down for a book signing with the Buffalo Knitting Guild. Then I'll take you out for a beer after that.

Vince

Yet another lurker coming to say that I'm so sorry you've had to deal with this. It's not right or remotely excusable. And it's pitiful that being proud of your own country is being taken/portrayed as anti-American.

Oh Steph... I am so so sorry that this crazy person (seriously, she's gotta be nuts) has learned how to use the Internet and has fixated on you. I'm glad that you've blocked her IP, and I hope that you no longer have to hear anything from or about her ever again.

Please take care.

Stephanie, I'm sorry. I wish there was something I could do. But know that I support your position a hundred thousand percent. I hope there is some way to eliminate the pain and anxiety this person has caused you. good feelings sent your way.
Love and compassion, peace and hope.

Man that really sucks that you are being tormented like that. Is there a possibility that the offender might have a mental condition? Not that that is any excuse.

Keep being awesome!

Oh, bless your heart. I am so sorry you and your family are having to go through such an ordeal. You have millions of fans in the USA of which I am one. May you find many things to give you some comfort at such a time. I recommend a good bottle of port, dark chocolate, knitting, etc. Okay, not all at the same time as the chocolate can get messy on the yarn and a bottle of port can make for interesting stitch patterns. You know what I mean though--be extra kind to yourself.

Good lord. Some people take their right to express their opinions to a whole other level (it's also people like this that have been the reason that i've held on to my Canadian citizenship so long even though i've lived in the states all of my life. Which is sad because i actually LOVE this country too)

After skimming through the comments, I have two words: beer pudding.

Seriously, though, sending light your way from Kansas. It is lightning bug season, so I'm picturing a jar of pretty bugs like I used to have on my dresser as a kid. :-)

Good for you. Here's good vibes from Iowa City,

I think the person in question should read the beginning of your piece on Canada Day written last year (2008). You said it nicely: celebrating Canada Day does not make you anti-American..."nuff said!

Steph, take heart, move on, keep knitting!

Wow...so much to say but really should not. What a lot of stress, on top of an already stressful time. I hope this person finds a better way to channel her energy. I hope you get some sleep.

I feel sorry for her, that she would sink to such levels! I hope that you will have quiet soon and that she will grow tired of such nonsense.

You are one of the reasons I'm so proud to be Canadian.

#%()^#%! I am so sorry. I have a blog on which I do not reveal my identity or location other than what state I live in, and sometimes I think I should loosen up and just out myself. Then I read stuff like this. Scary. Have you considered requiring commenters on your site to register? That might keep some of the nasties from getting through. Again, I am so sorry you're having to deal with this.

Go with grace.

Now get some sleep.

First off, I would like to say that the word "cunt" is the worst insult in the American language. Not that that uneducated cretin of a human being would know that.

Second, she is either mentally ill, or you have a case of Trollitis. Trollitis is very hard to cure, but can be combated with several doses of LOLcats.

Third, you, Stephanie, are made of seven (SEVEN!) different kinds of Awesome. And this is coming from an American.

Last, this is some advice comming from a computer nut. There is a limited number of IP addresses available for use in the world, so every computer that is connected to the internet is sharing an IP with several others. As of right now, the cirrent IP Address system dosen't allow for more.

However, there is a record kept of every IP, and every computer that has used that IP. You can even find out her IP address from an email sent from her directly (as opposed from being sent with her comment). This is perfectly legal, by the way, seeing as how typing an IP address was used before the now common URL. With a few easy steps, you can have her new IP and block that too. You can even get all of her info (name, address, etc) as well.

This way, when you turn all of this stuff over to the proper authorities (which you should do, dearie), you can even deliver the latest IP she used. In the US, what she is doing can be considered E-Terriorism which, as we all know, is a felony :)

Love, Peace, and Chicken Grease!
Abby, an American who loves Canadians (and their sexy "eh!"s)

(PS. The fact that she has to get her "computer guy" to change her IP shows she's not very smart. On top of that, everyone knows who your publisher is. They have to print that in every book they produce.)

Bless you for your patience and forbearance. You have my support, for what it's worth.

Just adding my 2c worth - nutter and troublemaker. You don't deserve this sort of treatment. It is she and those who agree with her who look very very bad in all this. Giving America a bad name.

Just wanted to throw in a word of support from Oklahoma. It's always best to take the high road - you will never regret behaving well - but please don't turn away any offers of help to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Come back and see us again sometime!

Simply stop responding to anything she says. Trolls/stalkers/etc feed off responses. Ignore her, no matter how difficult it may be, don't even say "I don't wish to speak to you again", etc. These people do not respond to courtesy or logic.

Huge, protective hugs to you, Steph, if you get this far in the comments. It sounds like you're doing all the right things to protect yourself.

My email service doesn't let any mail through with an address I haven't pre-approved. You might want to look into something like that.

We, the Blog, love and adore you. See you in a couple of weeks.

Dear Stephanie:

Cheers for you and the wonderful, mature, gracious way you are handling this awful situation. My heart goes out to you. I enjoy every thing you write. I am American and proud to be American, and so happy to read of your love for and pride in Canada.

Stay safe, and know that this sort of nutcake does NOT represent knitters, Americans, or anyone else but herself. We love you Stephanie.

See you at Sock Summit. I can hardly wait.

Suzie

Illinois loves you!

In a strong effort to reverse the karma of this situation, I just went to the Doctors Without Borders website and made a donation.
Maybe the positive will erase the negative.
Take care!
(P.S.- totally an American!)

I am so sorry. No one should get treated like this.
I hope you find a way to remedy the situation.

I'm an American, a "liberal" from Oregon. I'm sorry you have had to deal with someone who obviously takes their "freedom of speech" to such extremes; no one deserves or should have to be harassed so intensely. I look forward every year to your Canada Day posts, since I learn more and more about the great Country to the North (there are a few things I might even be jealous of!).

Maybe something else will inflame her sensitivities and she'll focus her hate somewhere else. (Or she'll end up on a watch list). Stay strong!

Stay Safe, both you and your family.

And this is from what some of my southern US relatives refer to as the Canadian suburbs.

Steph, I think you are amazing and an awesome person. I hope she goes away soon so you can put this all behind you.

Well this lady is obviously off the deep end!! I can't believe she would find your posts offensive and even if she did there is NO reason to be abusive. You are a talented, generous, and funny lady. There have been many days that your blog has given me a much needed laugh....so thank you for that! I hope you can let it go and find some peace in this situation!

Another long time reader, first time poster emerging to chime in an encouraging word. Your website is the first I check in the morning and usually a second or third time just in case you post throughout the day. Hope this too shall pass and wishing you good beer and delicious sock yarn.

Stephanie,
I'm so sorry to hear about the experiences you are going through. I love your blog and I thank you for everything you have posted!

I am so so very sorry that you have to deal with this. First of all, this is one of the biggest most blatant examples of what a Christian is NOT and why I personally don't believe in organized religion. People who sit in a church for one hour a week but don't live by the principals of the Bible cannot be called Christians. And I have never once seen you make anything close to an Anti-American remark.

American girls don't fight dirty, by the way. Dirty fighters are those who know they can't win the fight any other way. American girls are kind, loving, and caring and don't attack people unnecessarily.

Lots of love, hugs, and support. Please don't worry yourself about this too much. Please believe me when I tell you that this person does not speak for Americans nor does she speak for knitters. She most certainly does NOT speak for me and I'm beyond offended that she's taken it on herself to do so.

Best of luck resolving this situation. Please stay safe. Crazy people do crazy things. (P.s. I agree with you completely on the idea of using a slang term for a woman's anatomy as a negative thing and I also am offended at the idea that a man should never need a woman's help. You are an awesome wife, mother, knitter, woman, person, blogger, and whatever else you are that I've missed. Take care.)

You rock yarn harlot!

A lurker coming out to make her first post. A short story to share. Last year a knitting friend told me about the Yarn Harlot’s Blog. I didn’t realize there was more to the knitting world than needles, yarn and patterns. There was writing about knitting. I found your blog and started reading it from the beginning. I read and read, after reading for a while I realized I could knit while I read. What joy to find I could knit and read about knitting at the same time. Then I got caught up, I finally read the most recent post. You have no idea how disappointed I was to realize I now had to WAIT to read your next post. Heavy sigh. I continue to read your books, read your blog and knit. I hope to continue to read your writing and knit for a very long time to come. Stephanie, please continue to do what you do best, be the amazing person you are. Peace and love from MN, USA

Stephanie,

I am an American who thinks you are wonderful, insightful, funny, charming, kind, generous, and I could go on but I will keep this short. I support you. Keep on doing your thing. I will keep buying your books.

-Laura

Wow. That's truly awful. I really enjoy reading your blog. I don't agree with absolutely everything you say, but I don't have to to enjoy your blog. and I do enjoy your blog. I'll say prayers for you and the unfriendly person.

I've been reading you for a few (many) years from Chicago, IL. You are ultra-fabulous. Nothing more need be said. 'Pif to the wanker.

Dear Stephanie

Right this very moment, you are teaching me to be a better person.

Hi Stephanie,

Long time reader, first time commenter. As a rule I don't ever read blog comments because they make me depressed about the human race. People hiding behind a moniker, spewing forth negativity because, well, I don't know why, because they can? It's all too much for me. It's the reason I don't have a blog and one reason I admire you for having one.

I would not be able to deal with the attacks on character, opinion, and favorite flavor of ice cream. I have admired you since I first found you, lo those years ago, because you have such a wonderful level-headed sense of yourself and the world. This incident and the way you are handling it, unfortunate though it may be, concretes in my mind that you are an example of a fine human being and one that I will continue to look up to.

I'm saddened that someone out there has taken it upon themselves to make you the center of their bizarre universe. Although I am immensely curious who it is I will not search for the culprit, will not feed the beast. I urge the other readers to also let their curiosity lie. We can do our part to not encourage negative behavior by not acknowledging it. Stephanie is the one who needs our support.

Hi Stephanie. I'm sorry you've had to put up with this for weeks and that it has escalated to such a level. Please know that I genuinely appreciate you as a person, a knitter, a writer, a wife, and a mom. As you read the many comments that your friends and admirers leave for you, take them to heart. Be well and take care. We're with you.

Stephanie, you have the highest integrity and just an incredible amount of class to keep this from your readers. The stress you must be going through, between this person and working on Sock Summit would certainly drive me to a beer or two.

We're here for you. It's a good thing I don't know who this person is, because I'm rather protective of my Harlot.

Dear lord! I work in mental health with some very sick, obsessive people, and I still find that horrific.

I say screw them. If they're so uninteresting that they have to get their yaya's from being rude to other people, they're not worth worrying about in the first place.

You're the Best, Sweetie, you always have been. I think your kids are great, wish mine was more like them. Lead on McDuff.. : )

Honey, please, for your own safety and mental well-being (as well as ours - we worry about you!) contact your provider and seek legal help NOW.

Carol posted on July 26th at 1:44a. Please please follow her advice. When people act like this, ignoring often works but this person does not seem to be mentally stable. Please take those extra steps to ensure your safety and that of your family.

I'm yet another long-time reader/first-time poster, who wants to let you know that you are an amazing, talented, compassionate woman who doesn't deserve this treatment. This woman obviously has a problem and she's trying to make it yours. Please keep on doing what you are doing - giving SO much joy to SO many people. Hugs.

Just another long-time reader offering you love and support. You are a terrific writer, you have had me laughing until I cried and crying until I laughed. Thank you for sharing your gift with the world. And for being a proud ambassador for Canada.

I'm probably comment 56,824 but I felt that I should chime in too.

I am from the US and I love my country, but people like this really make me ill. (However, this woman would probably think I'm some sort of traitor because I've lived in three other countries during my lifetime and I (GASP!) found positive things about each one.) In fact, one of the things I love about your blog is when you talk about Canada...I don't feel any less American for knowing what Canada Day is, or a two-four, or poutine.

You know this, but I can't help but repeat it...she doesn't speak for all Americans, nor American women, nor American Christian women.

Peace...

Rarely comment, but had to delurk to show support for you Steph! I was shocked at what you shared with us, and can't imagine what she has said that you didn't share. I must agree with those that have said it before, please PLEASE notify authorities there and wherever this insane woman is from.

Much love from California!!

Yet another long time lurker making a first time post--just for you! You're my favorite. I've even read parts of one of your books out loud to my non-knitting mom who blushes when I say "harlot". I'm not only a Christian American, but a proud military wife who is easily offended by anti-US sentiments. You've never offended me. Like I said, you're my favorite.

I love your books and your blog. You write with what I perceive as a very clear vision of human conduct and standards, knitterly or not, with humor and an understanding of the human predicament infused throughout. Thank you from the bottom of this next door neighbor nation woman's heart. Go Canada!

Hugs. Stay safe. Report her to all appropriate authorities.

Thank you for bringing this to light. It sounds like you have been put through the wringer. In the same vein as the 800+ comments before mine, please know that for a great number of christian American women, you are wonderful just as you are. I love you dearly (although we've only ever met on the blog) and will follow your wishes for light, love, respect. How can that be wrong?

Support, love, appreciation, and admiration coming from yet another conservative, Christian, knitting American (who also enjoys visiting your beautiful country on occasion!)

You do not deserve this. You seem to me to be a wonderful, funny and down-to-earth person. Honestly? When I read your blog I want to be Canadian. Hang in there and please be safe.

Steph, I haven't commented in a while, but I read you always and love you. I'm a Christian American and I'm appalled at her behavior. {{hugs}} to you and I applaud you for taking the high road and leaving her in the gutter where she belongs.

I am so sorry. People should not act that way. A good friend of mine says that when you get the wackos riled up you must be doing something right, but then he's talking politics and you are talking knitting. You are a fabulous person and an inspiration on many levels beyond knitting. I love you for your lovely lefty-enviro-Canadian-ness

Hang in there. Deep cleansing breaths.

Sharon in Fairbanks AK

Good grief, Stephanie. No one should have to put up with all that nonsense. Sending you positive thoughts.

We don't get much television. We receive our signals over the air, and since the digital conversion we get less than we used to.

One program we are grateful to still be able to watch is Bill Moyers' Journal on Friday nights. Last night's show had a segment on health care, followed by a segment on the radio people who carry their negative, even hateful, verbiage onto the airwaves and into the bookstores. It talked about their desire to shock audiences, and the need to continually create more outrageous statements in order to continue to shock (because continuous shock only works if the amperage increases).

I think this person has been taken lessons in rhetoric from those folks. (I call their talk "verbiage," rather than opinions, because I'm not sure they *are* opinions, but are instead formulations of words set up to evoke a reaction).

So sorry you have been having to deal with this.

Yet another lurker coming out to show support.
Nobody should have to suffer this kind of behaviour.
Much love to you.

Another American delurking to say that I'm so sorry you're going through this. As obsessed as I am with knitting, a big reason that I love to read your blog is that you are clearly such a good and kind person. Is there any chance that you can have someone else monitor your email and comments, or at least take turns with you? Someone needs to keep an eye on this person, but you must need a break. Take good care.

Dear Stephanie, I am very sorry to hear that this is happening to you. That kind of behaviour should not be tolerated and should be reported to the authorities. Hope they can do something about this cyberstalker.

For what it is worth. Perhaps the comments could be turned off to give yourself a break from monitoring them.

(((Hugs)))

I am an American. She does not speak for me. I read your blog every day, I love your books and buy them all. I admire you enormously and, as an American, apologize to you for her behavior.

Never commented before and I have read for years. I am so sorry you have to go through this and I support you and your decision. Thanks for providing us all with so much of yourself.

I am an American who is proud to have you as a neighbor, to own your books, to hear your talks, and to read your blog. I completely respect your pride for your country and I have learned more about it from you than I ever learned in school. Likewise, I am horrified by some of the things that have been said about your country by some of our elected officials. I am *not* a minority on this.

I admire your restraint on this issue, and I hope that in private you are able to blow off some well-justified steam. You said yourself this feels unbalanced; it is. If you believe *any* of it, you're letting her win. Stay strong, and take care.

I can't imagine how difficult this is for you and I'm so sorry that this is happening. Yesterday you said that your blog was boring and I didn't write because it was such an outlandish thing for you to say, your blog is *divine*! It seems that something like this happens to a lot of stuff on the Internet. Maybe you could ask some people who have gone through the same thing and well, you're famous, you know, and this is the danger.
Anyway, thanks so, as always, for the books, I've read them all 3 times, they're so comforting! Please take care of yourself. You have been working so hard on the Sock Summit, darn, I wish I could go.
Take care,
may

I absolutely adore your blog and books. I've been a fan for years. I'm an American, but I've never been "insulted" by anything you've written. In fact, most of it makes me laugh so loudly that I scare the cats.

Not so your post, obviously.

What the woman doing is illegal and potentially dangerous, so please please please take the necessary steps to stop this stalking/bullying situation ASAP. Don't go it alone; get the authorities involved and hit her with a swiftness.

Be proactive, and remember that you've every reason to be angry, but you've no reason to be hurt. She's damaged goods, so the "you" she perceives is not the "you" that the rest of us know and adore.

Love ya to bits, Stephanie!

Woah. Just..Woah. I am so sorry you had to go through this and I hope that this helps.

I'm just adding a big "ditto" to what's been said here. I know that a gazillion of us want to sound a red-alert and man the battle-stations for you. I sure do. But you're right, Stephanie; that won't help in this case.
I will tell you, though, that I love your Canada Day posts. I love the way you love your country, and your city, and your family. I love that you are being so level-headed and and wise and generous about this.
I'm proud to know you.

Dear Stephanie,
I am very sorry you have had to go though all this. I myself received an anonymous letter time ago accusing me of the most unbelievable things. I just ignored it. That is the best way to handle these people. Ignore her, delete her, screen your comments and NEVER let any of those hateful ones get through. One of your books was the first one I read in English about knitting and it was an inspiration. Hold on. You are Canadian, and though you are renowed for your courtesy, you are also known for being brave. Hugs.

As hard as it may be you can't let the crazy people in the world change you. Believe that the people who know you personally or only through your blog, know the real you and that the crazy person is so easyily identifiable as such and is not worth a moment more of any of our time.Know that your inspiration, wit and humor are all appreciated more than you can possibly know and that onje crazy individual will never change that...

This has nothing to do with nation bashing, it's all about crazy.

Please be careful - Don't stop writing - you are a role model of graciousness

Do you think I can make a second sock in time for SS09?

Greetings from Greece!

Another long time reader of your blog and first poster. Keep up your good work - everyone is with you!

OMG Steph! She is a very sorry sick individual & needs help.....She does not represent or speak for American Women, Conservatives or Christians!

Thanks for the heads up!

The vile, vicious comments from a deranged person does NOT represent my views and I am embarrassed for her and hope she seeks the mental health assistance she so clearly needs. I enjoy Stephanie's postings so much - they are honest, genuine and sincere. Her humor that makes my day. Stephanie - Please know that you have a huge following of people who adore you for exactly who you are. Living in the Northwest, I have many, many dear friends who are Canadian - they are the best!

Stephanie

Please don't let one stupid person spoil it for everyone else.

I'm so sorry you've had to go through this. Although I have never seen your books (they are rare in Australia), I have been reading your blog for a year or two, and have always enjoyed it. Have mucho hugs! And I agree with a few of these posts: go kiss Joe and hug your kids. We know you're a fabulous parent.

I'm so sorry. I think your blog readers as a whole will follow the best advice when dealing with this kind of issue:

DNFTT.

Do Not Feed The Troll.

And yes, please contact the authorities in her community and let them know what is going on. Many US states have anti-stalking laws to prevent just this type of activity. You obviously have a well-documented trail to provide to them. Please do it. For your family's sake, even if you don't think you need to do it for yours.

Sending lots of love and light from the US -- and I'm a US citizen who loves your pride in your country, and has learned a huge amount from you about our close neighbor to the north!

And another long time lurker (we should have our own abbreviation), from Britain. I love your blog. I am so sorry you have to put up with this sort of rubbish, in order for the rest of us to have something to enjoy so much. I hope all the commenters have given you enough mental armour (the right spelling if you're British) to carry on.

I've been trying to think of something to say that could possibly not be said...but dear lord. Just look at all these comments! I think someone already said what I was thinking pretty well so I will quote her: "Dear Stephanie

Right this very moment, you are teaching me to be a better person."

*hugs*
-Stacey, formerly the crazy money lady from San Francisco who has relocated to Los Angeles.

Agreed - also delurking to say yes we'd certainly miss reading you but do you want a vacation? And then a period of comments turned off? And maybe another vacation after that? Good grief.

And believe me I really mean the part about missing reading your blog. I would be a lonely knitter, an anomaly in my family and museum exhibit to my friends (all muggles), if one of the friends hadn't said "Hey have you heard of the Yarn Harlot (*snicker ha ha*)?" Curiosity led me thereby to your site and all the knitting blog world, and most importantly to some very expensive yarn stores.

So I hope you take care of yourself, and Enjoy Socks, and really thank you for your honesty, grace, and for exemplifying what this American, admires about Canadians: you take the high road. And be dommed to 'em.

I want to keep this short and sweet - and although I am not sure you are still reading after over 850 comments:

Be proud. Be safe. Be healthy. Be blessed.

You are a great example of humility and patience.

You children and family should be proud.

(also, WHOOHOO! for music men. Mine is one too!)

I'm so sorry you are on the receiving end of such venom. This person is seriously unhinged. Please take care. We are with you 100%.

PLEASE know that this person in NO WAY represents Americans, Christians or any other decent human being!
Thank you for being so gracious about this situation. Bless you <3

Wow. Just wow. I'm so sorry you have to put up with this. This woman is why Americans pretend to be Canadian when they travel internationally!

Hugs and much love, Steph. We've got your back!!

Just one more Christian American Knitting blogger who absolutely ADORES you....Steph, you are such a wonderful human! Never let the haters get you down.

You are now, as you always are, the voice of reason. Another American, here, who loves your national pride and enjoys reading your Canada Day posts. We are neighbors, and our differences make us special. I will be hoping that this ugliness quietly resolves and you have peace again.

I wish that I could make some kind of shield or magic talisman to keep crazy Internet people away, everyone knows that hackers are weak against magic.

Since I haven't got magic I'll just send you all the positive vibes I've got.

Dear Stephanie,
Your blog entry was very disturbing to read, but want to thank you for sharing it, which must have been very hard. Please do whatever you need to in order to stay safe and preserve peace in your life. I thank you for all the humor, good sense, and knitting inspiration that you have given us through your bog and books and tweets. Sending love and appreciation from Ohio.

Stephanie,

As a very conservative American I am mortified by this person's behavior. I may not agree with you on everything, but I love reading your blog and your books. This person has obviously gone round the bend, and does not deserve your concern. If there were one iota of truth in those nasty accusations you would get 800+ positive comments to this post.

Personally I love your Canada Day posts. It is good for someone to be patriotic towards their own country, and to share their love as well.

Although I read this blog daily and own every book you've written this will be my first comment.
The tone that you use when you write about your trips to America have always been filled with respect, excitement, and joy for the country and the people. That is a true fact and not an opinion.

We love you, Stephanie!

Here's another American woman wishing you all the support and peace in the world.

Two things:

1. I am in full agreement that "pussy" should not be used as an insult, and it's not even that bad. I can think of lots that are worse without even resorting to obscenities!

2. So something good will come of this, I will be making an additional donation to Doctors Without Borders this month in addition to my automatic monthly contribution.

Tranquility to you.

I had to delurk for this... I'm proud to have you as a neighbor to the north.

Expressing pride in one's country in the manner you did is no insult, to my country or any other. Never let the 'hmm-hmms' get you down!

Hugs from England. Can't do anything about the nutters except ignore them.

We know you and you're brilliant and clever and kind and witty and we wouldn't be without you.

My mouth was hanging open in shock while I read this post. I've never seen anything remotely anti-American in your blog! I am an American, and I love you. Your posts have improved my day on many occasions, your knitting inspires me to improve my own skills, and I've filed away some of your parenting stuff for future reference. I think you are a wonderful, kind, and fun person, and you don't deserve anything that she said. You are an inspiration to me. Oh, and Joe's a great guy too. Musicians are NOT worthless by any measure.

Nothing more to say than this woman is crazy, and that you are a stronger better woman than I am. Please stop even reading her emails, and get legal help.
Now go have a beer or 3!

Go knit yourself something, and forget about this nut job. Life it too short to waste precious knitting time on her.

The woman is clearly a dickhead. I'm sorry she has made you the target of her utter boredom.

I enjoy every single post but rarely comment. So sorry to read you have to go through all this! Hope you can achieve that peace, and all your energy can be directed to the things and people you love!

I wonder how she feels about Australians???
Unbelievable. You've had to deal with all this while knitting the blanket that's been boring you silly. What did you do in a previous life that has made all this happen?

HI! You know what EZ would say:

Knit on with confidence and hope, through all crises!

You are a shining example of grace under pressure. Take care of yourself and your lovely family, I would love to have you all over for supper some day.

She's clearly insane.

How awful that you've had to endure this. Can't you file a restraining order of harrassment against her? (I apologize if this has already been suggested... I didn't read through the comments already posted.)

I've been reading your blog daily, have all your books, but have never commented. You've been my knitting hero for a long time, but today you're just plain my HERO. Thank you for all the time you put in and everything you do. Hope all the love all these wonderful people are sending your way helps. You don't just shine a light - you ARE one

When you said you had blocked her from the blog but was still receiving her email, my initial thought was to advise you to block her from you email too. Then, at 9:22, Jan said, "I beg you to be very, very careful of this person's behaviour. I urge you to make a statement to police to protect yourself and the ones you love. Trying to disengage from this type of behaviour may lead her to even great efforts to reach you, at any cost. Please consult a lawyer as well, to see if you can get a restraining order.... Please, please be very careful." and changed my mind. She might be able to tell that you blocked her on your email so set up a file specifically to direct her emails to and then don't read them! Save them for evidence but you don't need the negative energy but might need them for a suit for cyber-bullying.
You are a bright, lively and well-loved woman. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with the rest of us.

Love, Light and Respect? Sounds like my weirdo godless religion! (I'm a proud Unitarian). Hoping your annoyance goes away soon.

Agree totally with the comment from Katie (ab ove). I have known many Americans over the years, and they are - mostly - normal lovely people. Why should she think that because you love your country (a wonderful place) that you hate America? She sounds sick and in need of help. You need to see a lawyer - I'm sure there are anti-stalking laws in Canada and the States. Meanwhile - the best of British! Go have that beer or three.

Stephanie, i am so sorry this has happened to you - can you call the police - if you know her identity - this is blatant harrasment and the fact that you blocked her and she got a new IP address to dodge the block is creepy :)

Many hugs - i love your blog please don't stop writing :)

You are obviously dealing with an individual who is jealous of the life you portray so well on your blog who may or may not be mentally unwell.Either way being in the public eye makes you "fair game", to some people. I have been reading your blog for years and really enjoy learning about aspects of your culture that are so different to ours here in Britian.Your knitting skills may leave me feeling inadequate at times but I dont feel the need to harangue you about it. I dont have any advice for you on how to deal with this situation but I would like to thank you for having the courage to continue with your blog providing the majority of us your readers with our "fix".

I hope that when you wake up in the morning, you'll be able to smile. I think you deserve that.

Grace & ethics under fire ... well done!

A previous comment mentioned making a KWB donation next pay day. I'm on board with that! Let's channel this into something positive.

Sorry ... what were we talking about? There was something I wasn't supposed to mention ... oh well, couldn't have been all that important.

Seriously looking forward to SS'09!
cheers.

At first I could not believe what I was reading.
Stephanie you are so brave. Sending support and lots of light from Vancouver. You'll get through this.

I find this appalling and just wanted to add my support for you and your family to that of everyone else. I am sure that wonderful family of yours and all your friends are being so supportive .... as are the people who read your books and blog.

You talk about not adding fire to fire, would also suggest that a fire dies without oxygen, i.e. attention ...... so if we all ignore this person, she will no longer have an audience.

Would also add, hurtful and worrying as all of this is, none of it is really about you ........ it is all about her and speaks volumes about her inner world, which she is projecting out on to her chosen subject .. you. Remember that her view of you is just that - her perception and not how and who you really are.

Thinking of you all and sending positive vibes across the pond.

Sue

Sending support from the sunny shores of California! Thank you for being an honest and humorous voice in the knitting community - keep on keepin' on!

I'm so sorry, that's just horrible. You're showing a lot of grace in a lousy situation and I'm sorry that you have to. Even in going into it here, you took the high road and that can be hard to do when dealing with the obnoxious and the ignorant. She sounds unbalanced, ill, delusional. Please do what you have to do to be safe and take care of your family. I know you have a lot of support so what's one more voice, but know that there IS one more voice added to all the others, pulling for this to blow over.

As a Christian and an American, I'm embarassed and saddened by this person who continues to harass you. She's a sad little woman who must think so little of herself that she has to bring you down with her. Please don't believe her ridiculous lies.

As a customer service rep for websites where we got our share of crazy fanatical emails from people who had nothing better to do, I can only say that it was bound to happen sooner or later.

Please keep thorough record of everything written or said to you, you may need it in the future.

Stephanie, you are loved by so many, don't ever forget that!

If I saw her face-to-face I'd probably want to punch her by now. So the Internet teaches you not to hit people, because you simply can't?

She's insulting *my* country, the United States, by acting so high-and-mighty. I like that she uses the word "friendly". Ha. Anyway. I'm sure there is a lot of good advice in this comments and you should probably follow through on a lot of it. After all, we don't want you to feel like you have to be checking the blog 24/7 for comments from this person. I'd think that would be terrifying. I promise not to respond to her, cross my heart.

It's not hard to see why she's decided you're anti-American...it's not hard for an insecure and irrational person to make the jump from you stating things about Canada to you saying that that must mean America sucks. What I don't get is why the hell she's still reading the blog and slagging you off so much? You've been nothing but firm with her, not rude at all and she's definitely flying off the handle. To insult your parenting and religion is ridiculous. I hope that she does get bored and leaves you and your family alone; you don't deserve any of this.

Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for continuing your blog. I agree with another knitter that said this "needs to be said thousands of more times"...you are an absolutely stunning example of humanity, you inspire and brighten the days of countless people worldwide, and I consider you a personal hero, and a symbol of tolerence and human decency. Please don't ever change.

good on ya, mate.

Dear Stephanie, You are a GEM and very very very much appreciated by so many people. I cannot thank you and your family enough for all you share. You are managing to lighten dark parts of my life and I will never cease to be greatful for what you have given me through your blog and your books. You really have changed my life and my knitting.
I hope the good comments help to protect you from the lousy ones and that you can relax knowing that you're a much appreciated & wonderful person.
Suzie

I have been reading for years but never commented, just sending you good wishes and hope that this all ends soon for you.

By the way, love the blog!

Hello Darling Harlot,

You are a good person. I am so happy that you are in this world.

Thanks for being funny, creative, honest and strong.
Knit on sister, knit on!

Welsh Lurker here.....it never ceases to amaze me how much hatred and vitriol can be aroused by someone's success and popularity....I read your blog religiously...hail saint stephanie lol long may you carry on lightening our knitting darkness, and believe me living in Wales in the winter it gets very dark indeed. You have a loving family and a loving knitting family too ...keep on doing what you do best and we will all ignore the bad stuff

So sorry you're going through this and hope it stops for you soon; am continually surprised by what people think is acceptable online behaviour.

This woman is obviously insane. I'm sorry that you're being bothered by this sad excuse for a human being. No one deserves what you're going through. You're a wonderful person and, in my opinion, extremely tolerant. I have no respect and no patience for (ahem) People like this. If I had the chance to meet her I'd snap her in half like a damn twig. But that's just me.
I'm giving you a big internet hug. *squeeze* You deserve it. And a glass of beer. Make that two.
At times like this I often say "WHAT DA HEELLL!!!" Give it a try. Very cathartic. Also, knitting.

As many others I'm a first-time commenter but a constant reader. I can't imagine what sort of a trauma one needs to experience to engage in such a dreadful and strange "crusade" and I agree with you that it's sad and... well... creepy? Is that the word? Unfortunately, there's no adequate solution to these issues on the Internet - except adding more filters for incoming e-mail.
I hope that she'll boil out soon enough once ignored and I wish you all the strength you might need to deal with this situation.
Love, light and respect. And peace.

Wow...I don't really know what to say. What an idiot! It's unfortunate that someone this incredibly ignorant has the brass balls to think she represents my country, my religion and my opinion ....and then we wonder why the world has so much anti-American feeling in it! How arrogant...Please stay safe and feel all the love surrounding you right now
Have a beer and Oh, wait, let me raise my Canadian lager to you!

Hugs, Jeanne R.

Another longtime lurker here.

I'm American and proud of it. I'm equally proud of how you handled this situation.

This woman gives everyone a bad name.

This vile, hurtful, barbed stuff - I've had it before, in public and in private, from a spurned lover. I applaud your decision to go public with it; I did and I found it freeing and then uplifting with the support I got and the reassurances that no, it was not me in the wrong.

I wholly enjoyed your vivacity, with, and self-deprication when you cam