Not with a single step, as Lao Tzu said…but with me taking clothes out of my suitcase, washing them, and putting them right back in again, which is what I’m doing today. I feel like I’ve just been home for mere days (which is because I have) and my flight to California is late tonight. Tomorrow I’m at Copperfield’s Books in Petaluma, Friday is Powells (the main one) in Portland, Saturday, The James Bay Community Centre in Victoria BC, then a wee jaunt to Tidal Wave Books in Anchorage on Monday. (Details, as always are on the tour page where I keep all this stuff. Scroll down.) After this there is time off until the first week of August when I go to…..
I don’t know where I go, and frankly, I can tell I’m ready for a bit of a rest because I’m not at all curious.
I’m excited to see the knitters, thrilled about the Knit-Out in Victoria, deadly uncool with glee about seeing new places, but I can’t help but wish that someone had spent more time on that teleportation invention so that I could do all of this without airports, airplanes, busses, taxi’s, hotels, room service and hauling a suitcase. I get cramps thinking about the airports. I hate airports.
I have one good strategy though, I am planning some very exciting knitting, something that arrived in the mail a little while ago that I have stashed just as a reward for this sort of thing. It’s so good that it almost makes the prospect of hours and hours (and hours) of waiting around sitting in bad chairs with bad coffee seem like it might be fun. In a cruel move, I have decided to show it to you tomorrow, since today I am a paragon of virtue, and am finishing the Dream in Color cardigan I started a while ago. The one I intended to wear on just this trip.
I pried it out from under the cat, and I’ve got just 1/3 of a sleeve to go, plus some edging and sixteen metres (not really, but it’s a lot) of I-cord for the tie to go. (It’s this pattern.) I wondered what I could do to motivate myself to finish it today and tonight on the flight, instead of starting the new and very exciting knitting, and it took a little thought, but I think I’ve got it.
I’m not packing another sweater, or a jacket. If I don’t finish this, I will be missing an essential portion of my wardrobe for this trip. Since I loathe being cold, I think this shall be sufficient motivation. (Just to be sure, I think I will put all other knitting in my checked bag. Maybe.)
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to round up enough clean underwear to put this show on the road.
(PS. Does anyone remember who the hat collector for Petaluma California is? I seem to have lost track of that little detail. My sincerest apologies. Please stand up and shout if it’s you. If it counts for anything, I have also lost track of my brand new sandals, which I adore.)
(PSS. I totally did spin yesterday. Don’t start.)
Have a safe trip!
Have a safe trip!
Is that The Harlot…doing magic loop?!
The sweater looks great. And yarn you spun? It’s awesome. I may have to have my secret evil knitting fairies come steal it from you while you are away. 🙂
Have a great trip!
luv luv luv the colour! Perfect for spring. have an awesome time! Sending lots of happy safe travel thoughts! Enjoy your fill of fabulous knitting energy from the west coast!
Don’t forget that the underwear category includes bras.
Sending “smooth traveling” vibes your way. But, you know, if you have the willpower, you might want to keep the extra-special knitting with you, just in case.
On second thought, after remembering your last post about the wee colorful sweaters, perhaps not.
My mother told me a story once that when she was in college the dean of women would tell them to always wear clean underwear in case they were in some sort of accident and had to be taked to the ER. However, it is no longer the 1950’s so I say, spend more time knitting your sweater!
I’m sure someone else likely made the arrangements but don’t you think it’d be more satisfying to go from Alaska down to California instead of the reverse? I’d rather strip as I went south instead of layer as I went north. Of course, that would mean you’d need the sweater sooner, wouldn’t it? Have fun!
Have a wonderful and safe trip.
Get that wash done and finish that sweater. It is beautiful. You are almost there. Go YH, Go!!! You can do it!
(Is that motivating you?)
Looking forward to seeing you in Dallas sometime soon.
Interesting. Looks even less green with the cat on it.
Have a safe trip. My husband grew up not far from Petaluma, it is a lovely place. Perhaps you’ll have time to finish your sweater as you work you way up to colder climes. Have a safe trip.
Sounds like a nice variety of locations. Looking forward to seeing tomorrow’s project.
The baby can’t come until the knitting is done mojo rubbed off on me. I handed a co-worker the baby sweater at 9:30 this morning and her water broke at 2:10 this afternoon
Knitting? Checked bag? There are scary stories out there…
Safe travels – and gorgeous peonies in that last shot, by the way.
Oh THAT sweater. I would need to pack a green sweater in my carry-on for back-up. Because the one you’re working on is not green. 😉
I am in awe of the trip to Alaska – all hail the wonder-publicist!
Hopefully one of your future stops will be among your knitfans in southern Montana/northern Wyoming.
Fly safe. Oh, maybe you should pack a windbreaker, as it’s been raining out West recently.
May the wind always be at your back, and may the knitting fairies fly you safely.
I really do like that sweater, even if people don’t think its green.
Rachel H., I noticed that too…about the colour.
I love that cardi, and I love that yarn..also the peonies and the spun yarn…
Safe journey, I know you’ll make all sorts of good times…monicapdx is so excited I hope she packs herself some clean undies….(hi, monica!)
See you in Victoria!
Beautiful sweater! And I won’t be able to get to Portland for your visit *sob* I can’t get a sitter and while my 3 year old loves knitting stuff/yarn/books/etc, my two older boys would stir up such trouble that Powells would never let us cross their threshold again!
Hope you have a great trip!
But sweaters always work better when there are cats on them. Think of it as extra warming potential 🙂
I would bring a sock or something to knit on…but something boring…What happens if you end up next to someone who wants to hit on you the whole flight, and you FINISH your sweater, and have nothing to do but fend him off?
Do you remember that flight? Or did you block it out?
It looks like it’ll be a lovely sweater!
Florida!!! Ya know, you don’t even need a sweater in Florida. Although that one is just beautiful. And green. Have a safe and wooly trip! And come see us sometime.
such a pretty kitty. I love the sweater color, but I would look ill that in that shade…I’ll just have to admire yours.
Mmmm, yummy yarn, and I love the pattterns from Pure & Simple. Looking forward to hearing of your latest project (mine is Loksins socks from TooMuchWool – a great pattern thanks to Cassie http://cassiana.typepad.com/too_much_wool/).
Have a safe and stress-free trip!!
My head hurts just trying to keep up with all you do.
Safe travels, Stephanie. Very with you on the loathesome airports – flew back from NYC to DC this morning, getting up at 2.30am (yes, it does exist, it wasn’t just a rumour) to get to Kennedy for 4am (2 hours before the flight, like a good girl) only to find out that the United people don’t do 4am, and that you only have to check in an hour before the 6am shuttle. My excuse – I’m English (plus it gives me a jolly good excuse to be cranky today).
Please finish the lovely cardigan soon – we wouldn’t want you to be cold. Although, it is June, so just maybe… it might be sunny in California?
I hope your trips are tempered by 1)nice people 2)on-time flights 3)good seats on the airplane 4)courteous hotel staff and 5)excellent yarn shops and gifts!
Travel well. Do you ever miss midwifery?
Hey, Steph, or Steph’s excellent publicist…I work at the local bus company in Portland, Oregon, and would love to drop off a daily bus pass for your use on Friday in our fair city…you can email me at rodewall@tri-met.org if that will work for you. It would have saved your long, long walk last time you visited us. Looking forward to seeing you!
I cord is boring, and also, easily packable, and the ultimate in public knitting.
i say, split the diff- finish the sweater, do the cord at will (tell people it’s really a sock for a ferret) and have fun.
I just got home from California yesterday and you’re flying right over Seattle, so I’ll miss this tour.
We passed through unseasonably cold and occasional downpours in Northern California after a month of high 80s. No idea what Petaluma’s prediction is, but Saturday will be rainy and low 50s in Seattle. BC should be similar. Looks like out KIPs will be under cover. And you’ll need that sweater.
Whoooooa, does that cat have attitude! I’m surprised you came out unscathed in removing your knitting from under him/her.
So glad you found the appropriate prod to get that lovely cardigan finished. I’ve been fond of it since day 1.
Safe trip! Come to Texas one day, Dallas this time! Just let me know what I need to do to make it happen.
Whatever you do, don’t pack the last baby sweater. You will end up doing that instead, and although I’m not sure, I really don’t think it will fit you when you get cold!! 🙂
Here’s to hoping you get done with your latest jaunt with no mishaps, and get home to Joe and the girls soon, who, by the way, will be out of school for the summer and ready to make your hair stand on end as usual. You know you love this time of year the best!
Dear Harlot:
I sincerely wish you the smoothest of trips, minimal transfer anxiety and loads and loads of the coolest knitters west of Denver (ahem).
Now where the heck do I find the Dream in Colour baby pattern and yarn? I Googled. I am at a loss.
XOXO
M
p.s. — Even Lettuce Knit doesn’t list it.
Whoa. My family and I will be vacationing Victoria this weekend. I had no clue there was a fiberfest going on. Usually I miss those things by a weekend or so.
I am so much looking forward to seeing you tomorrow. Rest well, safe journey, and remember that it’s sometimes cool enough in the evenings here to need two layers of sweaters.
I still can’t believe I’m going to be missing you in Victoria by a lousy week. Just my luck.
The brown sweater is coming along spendidly. And I always love the look of magic loop on a sleeve. It’s odd really, I can’t shake this deep feeling that last time you were knitting a green sweater and only used DPNs. Must’ve been a dream.
Finish the sweater for sure! Petaluma should be warmer than the Bay Area, but it has been chilly here recently, especially in the mornings and evenings.
I hope you are still bringing the Bohus – it can be your backup! Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow! Good luck with the traveling.
Incentive to finish the sweater: the cool ocean breeze you’ll feel the minute you step out of the airport in SF. You’ll want to wear it any time the sun’s not shining. I’m sad to say that even though I’m just 20 min south of Petaluma, I’ll be following your parenting example and dutifully attending a middle school choral concert instead of seeing you. So sorry to miss you. Enjoy your time here, and the Peets coffee.
Wow, the peonies in the last photo remind me of the time I went to Ottawa years ago and there were these rosebushes I originally THOUGHT were peonies because the roses were so HUGE.
And now here I go, missing life back east. Not many peonies out here.
I love knitting pure and simple patterns.
some days I read your blog and I fear my future.
but I’m adjusting.
Green, schmeen — I was so far gone that when you said “the Dream in Colo(u)rs cardigan I started knitting” I thought you’d stolen a march on everyone’s advice and had been cranking out an adult version of the baby jacketjacketjacket. Hey, you even mentioned miles of I-cord.
Have a sock in the carry-on. Just in case.
I am totally NOT brave enough to venture anywhere without extra backup sweaters, even if it meant incentive for finishing a faboo project. What if it’s freezing on the plane? What if I break a needle and there are no needles anywhere in the entire state of California!? WHAT IF MY HANDS FALL OFF?? I spin into an odd panic when faced with cold. 😉 (People say “But you’re Canadian! Aren’t you immune to cold?” and I’m all “Er… no. I can just recognize it better.”)
To sum up: You are a braver soul than I. 🙂
I live in Portland now, so I will definitely come see you at Powells! *geeks out*
Happy hunting. 😉
Don’t worry about being cold in Portland – it’s been really hot lately! You’re more likely to want shorts and a tank top than a sweater on Friday. See you there!
No worries about the Victoria airport. It’s so small. There’s only one route out of there and then you either head north (towards the ferry terminal) or south (towards the city). That’s it. And while you’re in the area anyway, you should stop in Sidney for the 2 yarn shops and then make it into the city and do the rest of the yarn crawl! Yarn crawl! We’re all going on Saturday – need a ride!? Ha ha!
Can’t wait for Saturday… Um… Do you know what time the talk/book signing is going to end? I need to know in case I need to make a reservation for the “after party”!!!
Oh and are you going to be around for the Knit Out too on Sunday?
I know, I know… So many questions. I’ll go now. 🙂 Happy travels!
I have long suspected, and now I’m sure, that knittus interruptus is a core feline skill. All of mine are grand masters of it, including the one who is theoretically so old and blind that he shouldn’t be able to tell if I’m knitting or baking a cake. (Your cat is gorgeous btw, not that both of you don’t already know this.)
I know where you’re scheduled to be on August 2, but I won’t tell you.
Do you find I-cord a pain in the neck? Please say yes. I always thought my feeling this way made me a defective knitter.
You loathe to be cold…and you live in Canada?! (lol)
Will see you tomorrow it seems rather than in Portland as originally planned. No, not stalking you, just on a similar travel schedule – decided to stay in the Bay Area a few extra days before leaving for Portland and turns out Petaluma is really easy to get to. Thought about knitting a washcloth shaped like India for your collection but life sorta got in the way so I’m bringing something else from “over there”. Happy travels. Petaluma is okay and you probably won’t get too cold there.
Joy
Rewalsar, H.P. India
http://www.customjuju.com/joy/joyblog
Don’t worry about being cold in Portland – it’s been really hot lately! You’re more likely to want shorts and a tank top than a sweater on Friday. See you there!
As a road warrior myself, I can confirm that knitting goes a long way toward maintain sanity in airports (and other waiting areas of heck).
Please take your vitamins and don’t eat any airport food that has not been boiled (soup’s usually non-threatening). Beer’s a safe bet, too. You’ll never starve or succumb to food poisoning with a beer and vend-o peanut butter crackers.
You can’t get away with just spinning on Tuesdays you need to blog & photograph so three is evidence, we are hard task masters & you thought you could distract us with pretty baby sweaters.
I applaud your optimism and faith in yourself. Were it me, I would be packing a light sweater/jacket. Because I know myself. This cruel side of you is not becoming…. please show us what is so tantalizing that it makes hours of airport, airplane, bus, and train traveling something to look forward to!!!
Did you know they sell Alaska Amber by the bottle on Alaska Airlines flights going to and from Anchorage? A nice beer and some knitting might make the flight go better – even if it is late there will be light so you won’t sleep anyway. Can’t wait to hear you speak. 🙂
A journey of a thousand miles certainly does begin with removing the cat from the knitting to be finished before wearing on the trip! It’s lovely … well, the cat AND the knitting! Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. And, I too will see you in August, when you are nicely rested from all this cavorting. Have fun, and safe travels!
God Speed on the next leg of your horrible/wonderful journey (though airports, busses and whatsnot). Will you deny any knowledge of the totally (and yet not blogged) new knitting if it is caught by evil southerners? Or is it just too good to deny? 😉
Blessings on your journey (you never know when you need it).
Ditto what Rams said. At the words “Dream in Color” and Cardigan I immediately conjured up an adult version of that gorgeous little rainbow number. The a wave of adrenaline washed over me, but I think I’m okay now.
Not packing a sweater or jacket, huh? Living on the edge. I like it. Fortune favors the brave. 🙂
I’m glad that you have a nice break coming up! I’m excited to see you in Victoria. I’m in Seattle and wouldn’t have known about the fiber fest and knit out if I hadn’t seen it on your schedule. I’m taking my first spinning class there so Thank You!
Give up any hope of your hair behaving in Petaluma.
The winds have been crazy right now and you will most likely need that sweater. The way the temps fluctuate here you might as well visit the desert.
Layers are important for survival in Northern California. Think fog.
Wishing you a safe trip.
I love Rachel H.
Every time I read your blog I wonder why my cat is posing for other people’s stories, and I also wonder why he isn’t paying me royalties. As many modeling gigs as Morgan gets, he could be buying his own catnip!
I’d like to see a photo of Joe holding the cat. I bet it would a really furry picture.
Love the sweater.
I dare you to wear it with the needles hanging off it if you don’t finish it in time.
You are making me dizzy!
I’m going to Anchorage… I’m going to Anchorage…
I’m so looking forward to tomorrow’s talk in Petaluma! Any plans to stop by the LYS, Knitterly? (What’s that you ask, Steph’s magnificent publicist? No! Of course I’m not trying to stalk the fabulous knitblogger!)
Conditioner! Don’t forget the conditioner!
Oh, yeah! And the non-podium, non-other-knitters event I’m planning for you?
It SO does not involve airports, either.
*still twiddling thumbs, waiting*
Hey, Steph!
We’re getting up at 5:00 am tomorrow to drive up to Petaluma to see you. We’ll be the two haggard women (because we will have been driving in the car for 10 hours – gah!) practically passed out in the back from exhaustion. It’ll be fun, I know!
So glad you mentioned the hat thing – I was wondering about that myself. I guess we just bring our hats and sort it all out later.
Can’t wait to see you! Pleasant travels 🙂
Wait, you’re coming to the SF Bay area without a JACKET? You’re so done. Better get on the sticks with that sweater!
The first time I came to California (in July, mind you) I brought one light fleece and spent two days looking for the perfect hoodie. Less than a week ago a friend of mine from the East Coast and declared he would be fine with a little chill. The next day (after the fog rolled in) he bought a thick fleece.
Knit away, traveler!
I can’t wait to see you in Victoria! I’m bringing my Grandmother who taught me how to knit – girl bonding moment 🙂 Safe travels!
Oh, you will be in Portland for the end of the Rose Festival and downtown too. It’s fleet week the ships start arriving today.:) Awfully interesting but a bit crowded… I hope you will come back and see us again and not flee in terror.
It is COLD here in the Bay
Area! and Windy too!! The wind goes right through you on these foggy mornings. Santa Rosa (very close to Petaluma) had a high of 68 today. Warmest spot in the region. I really hope you get that sweater done on the plane.
What is the Number One seller at San Francisco tourist shops during the summer?
Sweatshirts.
Your sock would probably be upset if you checked it. Remember, it may even be pinning for the recently lost sock…
Steph, i am sitting here with goosebumps! You may not remember but last summer you quoted that on your blog ( journey steps) and i commented that i’d just said it that day to a man on the bus when he said it’d take a long time to finish the sweater i was just starting. ( and you emailed me about it!)
Well, this morning that quote was the first thing in my mind when i woke up- I’m serious! I probably had been dreaming about you or something as i will be at Fibrefest and of course will be there to see you ( and am bringing the knitting BF ) …weird and true lol.
I’m excited!
The sweater is wonderful, the green rich and intruiging (sp?) I can’t wait to see it and with my own eyes too :). We will have beers and yarn for you at Copperfield’s. Have a good flight. Nor Cal weather is crispy nice…has been foggy doggy in the morning and wispy breaking into mid-70s sunshine later in the day.
I composed a comment in my head, letting you know about SF weather and asking you please to bring the Bohus. . . then I read the comments and realized someone had already said it. Then I looked at the name and realized that it was MY SISTER who wrote it. I guess that we are on the same wave-length — we don’t need to even talk anymore if it’s about knitting!
See you in Petaluma. I hope that they have enough chairs.
Don’t forget to pack the snacks! That should guarantee minimal disruption to the flight schedule. 🙂 I’m so jealous that you get to see Alaska. It’s on my dream list of places to go someday.
I volunteered to collect the hats. Have not yet looked to see where I will take them, but have no worries there will be a worthy place. 🙂
That DOES look like magic loop! did you not have enough dpns? I like the sweater, though it still does not look green. Your cat is gorgeous. I love black cats.
1. Woo Hoo! I will be in the same place, at the same time, as the Harlot! Sorry ’bout the airport and plane part, but I promise we’ll make it worth your while.
2. There is a Peet’s at 5 Petaluma Boulevard South. If you take the Petaluma Boulevard South exit, it is on the right side of the road a few blocks before you would turn to get to Copperfield’s. By all means, switch to good coffee as soon as you can.
3. I won’t tell you that the predicted weather in Petaluma tomorrow is 76 degrees. You might show up naked, furiously knitting on a wee baby sweater. (Of course, there’s always the fact that it will be 50 degrees and unbelievably windy when you arrive at SFO to encourage grown-up sweater finishing).
4. If no one else shouts out re hats in Petaluma, I’m willing to do it. I just need someone to tell me what it involves. If you’re too busy looking for clean underwear to deal with that now, we can work it out tomorrow. 🙂
Oops, I see Laura’s got hats covered (we crossed in the ether). If you need any help, Laura, just give a holler!
Please finish that sweater before you get off the plane. You will be chilly here in the Bay Area. I am in the Far East Bay right now (it is normally warmer here than anywhere in the Bay Area), and it is less than hot here.
Weather in Petaluma for Thursday- high 76, however it will be in the 60’s before your talk starts. I know this isn’t cold for most of the world, but for the Bay Area in June- I have goosebumps- it is light sweater weather!
I CAN NOT WAIT for school to get out on Thrusday so I can pick up Mom and high-tail it to Petaluma.
Even my muggle of a mom is excited!
See you soon!
I went to a good pub/restaurant in James Bay — The Bent Mast. (or something like that and yes there is a mast out front; hard to miss). The beer that comes out of the tap with the black and white stripes on it (like a local landmark lighthouse) is rather good. It might even be called Lighthouse. I think I had the IPA. Phillips IPA is also good. (Well, if you like IPA but I think you do.)
After Cate’s difficulties in emptying a keg, I’m thinking that it is safe to assume not all knitters share the love of good beer.
Bay Area representin’! I can’t wait to see you tomorrow at Copperfield’s. However, I do realize that you will be totally exhausted and I don’t want that for you. Since I live in the Bay Area (just 20 mins south of San Francisco), I am making the trek up to see you. I will be leaving super-early, and I think that DH will even be able to leave his 80 hr./wk work early so that we can go together. I heart him so much – he knows that I would love to do the same for him to watch a cycling guru speak or to look at the stars at 2:00 in the morning in a wet, dark field in the hills. 🙂
Anyway – my point was that since this is the nearest stop that you will be at in the Bay Area, I am sooooo looking forward to making the long trek to see you – just an excuse for a weeknight road-trip! 🙂
Yeah to Laura for hat collection duty. I’m delivery Miss Sylvia’s for her and they’re adorable.
I heartily recommend Peets as well, though they close early (it IS Petaluma) so go before the reading or you’re SOL. Let me know if you need delivery, as I shall see ya tomorra!
P.s. It is a bit cold here, but it will still be 24 degrees C for your visit…
You dared to take the sweater out from underneath THAT cat, and get nervous about talking to knitters, your kindred, your people. That cat looks as if it has a TOTAL attitude.
I wish I could see you in Portland, but it is not to be. Good Luck…oh, and here in the Seattle area…weather is less than stellar. I would guess Alaska is less than stellar as well. You will want the sweater finished by then.
I don’t think that trick works if you want something to wear to swim in the hotel pool.
It’s been CHILLY here in California–you may want to rethink that motivation, Steph–finish that gorgeous cardigan and all, but bring something with a little more clout…if it’s chilly here, you can bet Portland’s downright clammy…
oh oh it seems to me that yu may have a ”thing” about items worn on your feet. First “”THE Sock”” and now your sandles!!Its hard to find sandles one really likes but pehaps California will have a pair for you. You;; probaly have that lovely sweater done before you board the plane –best take some other knitting with you Won’t be long now and you will have time to have some R.&R. that you desreve. Good travels and knitting
There you go again! Now I absolutely can’t get the Dream in Color yarns out of my head — even though no one I know personally is in need of a tiny baby cardigan, I desparately want to make Tulip (from, of course, the Dream in Color kit)… and then there’s your wrap cardigan, which is lovely. (The closeup shot you posted made me drool — the slight sheen, the maddeningly beautiful little dashes of color!)
Although I have not yet seen (or felt) it firsthand, I can tell the yarn is amazing! And though I’m generally a big fan of color pooling in hand dyed yarns, I adore the non-pooling yet texturally interesting fabric Dream in Color produces! Not to mention, it apparently goes great with cats (and cat hair, I presume)… Please explain to me how I can continue to deny my feline friends the euphoria of lazing on a Dream in Color sweater in progress? It’s just cruel of me!
On a less obsessive note, I hope your trip out west is fun, and all your travel arrangements go smoothly!
Better get crackin’ on finishing your sweater — I’m guessing you’re going to need it!
So excited about seeing the real you (not just a photo). Even knit two hats to bring with me to Petaluma. It’s breezy and chilly by our standards but about the same as “nice and warm” in Victoria. Wishing you smooth flying…
awww forgot to mention that yhe yarn you spun is really an eye popper especially beside those beautiful peonies. Safe trip
Like Rams, I thought you had started an adult verison of the baby sweater. Which, come to think of it, might not be a good idea to suggest to you. Ignore that idea, please.
And what happens when you’re cold and haven’t finished yet? Maybe pack some scrap yarn to use as flexible stitch holders.
You’d better finish the cardigan before you leave. It’s been raining and little cool here in BC for the last couple of days. Hope you have a good trip.
Halifax?! Say it’s Halifax in August. I hear it’s nice here in August.
Portland weather for Friday: partly cloudy (well, it’s Rose Festival, what else?), 10% chance of rain (hah! we’re having a downpour right now, and today’s forecast just says ‘showers’ – yeah.), and a low of 11C, high of 22C around 5-6 pm. Slightly windy. Bring layers. Ignore any frizz from humidity; we live with frizz.
Downtown will be *nuts*. In addition to umpteen tourists here for the big parade Saturday, there will be hordes of gorgeous young sailors from the Rose Festival Fleet being chased by wimmen and getting drunk. (I have fond memories of the Canadian ships – they have grog on board! Only one Canadian ship attending this year, alas.) At least the ships will have finished coming in, so you won’t run into the bridges being up, backing up traffic for hours. Take up Lori’s offer of a Tri-Met day pass if you can – cabs will be really busy and there could be delays of up to an hour if you aren’t getting one right at your hotel. Whereas buses come along about every 15 minutes. And remember you have to phone for the cabs. 😉 Except for those few hotels downtown that actually have parking for cab stands. Although presumably you *will* be in a hotel downtown. If you’re in one of the hotels right on Broadway and leaving for Powell’s from there, not a yarn store, you could walk – despite hilliness. [g] Just go west from Broadway (uphill) 3 blocks to 10th, then turn right/north, walk down 10th to Burnside (downhill!), and voila: Powell’s, right across the street. If you’re at the downtown Hilton, or definitely if at the Marriot facing the Willamette, bus it. Ask for directions at the desk; they’ll know. Further hotel – cab. Check the Yellow Pages in hotel for blurbs on how the bus zones work or ask at the desk again. Downtown is free, but we have 2 zones beyond Fareless Square, and most LYS’s are in those.
See you Friday! (And Marianne? I’m am *so* gonna get you! [vbg])
I’m with you on the whole business-travel-is-not-the-greatest perspective. I travel frequently and everyone always thinks its a great thing. Unfortunately, it’s the getting there and then the scheduling chaos that makes it so difficult! Not to mention the fact that sometimes all you get to see of a city is the inside of your hotel and the blur from the cab window. You’re a road warrior for sure (have you added extra pages to your passport yet from all of those US stamps?) and I’m always happy to read about how you meet all the knitters and find that silver lining … Safe travels, Stephanie!
There’s a saying attributed to Mark Twain that goes “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” You can always spot the tourists shivering in what they expected to be “sunny California”.
It gets chilly all the way up here in Sonoma County and Petaluma (just 40 miles north of SF)with winds and fog coming off SF bay. Wonderful sweater weather almost all year round–I LOVE it! You will definitely need something in the evening–but expect it to be warm in Copperfield’s–they are expecting at least 200 bodies!
Looking forward to hearing you tomorrow in Petaluma.
Um sweetie? You’re going to Alaska without a jacket?
I don’t care what time of year it is, I don’t think that is a really good idea, nor will that sweater be enough for that part of your upcoming schedule – as gorgeous as it is.
Finish it before Petaluma though. Wind gusts are at 14MPH for tomorrow and a high of 76. Night time low of 47 is forecast.
From the look on your cat’s face – I don’t think he/she appreciated it when you reclaimed your sweater! I think you should be afraid, Steph – be very afraid!
OK I know this won’t be noticed because it’s #104 in here… or something like that… but hey the point is… no Seattle dates?!? Heeeeeey! I’ve been waiting patiently… and i’ve been paying attention to the schedules (I thought)! Nothing in Seattle? Really?
…gosh… is it my breath?
(please disregard if you have already been here and i missed it in a colossal lapse of paying-attention-ness) 😀
Have a great time on your trip!
You slay me. Love the sweater, although I confess to serious doubts about its degree of greenness. Someday I’ll be a big girl and actually FINISH something I’ve started (like, oh – a sock?!?) and maybe then I can knit me a sorta-green sweater too!
Hooray! – 3 more days until you arrive in Anchorage!
1) Request a seat on the right side of the plane for the trip up – if the weather is clear, the views are remarkable!
2) Summer in Alaska is fabulous – jackets not always necessary, but good insurance. As of now, the temp is 64.4 degrees F (18.0 degrees C) but – weather up here can change in a second!
3) Tidal Wave books is adjacent to Kaladi Bros. coffee – excellent coffee!
4) Anchorage airpot (Ted Stevens Int’l) is small & easy to navigate!
See you in our Town Square Monday afternoon (the flowers are gorgeous) & then at Tidal Wave!!
The moon is gone.
She fled as dawn approached.
Dawn as a slowly opening eye.
White sea birds skimming over the water,
looking for an early morning snack.
The mirror brightens.
From a blood moon at dawn to a mirror
reflecting waking life…
#######
I woke her to take the moon.
Her campaign was swift and terrible.
Metallic and fierce.
Glaring up in the twilight.
But the moon was both implacable and unreachable
and in the end the war against the moon failed.
As dawn rose slowly from her bed, the moon slipped away.
But in the end, all that was lost,
was a little sleep….
################
1 June 2007
Burning Moon
Moon Fire
Blood Moon
smoked Moon
Smoky Moon
Smouldering Moon
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
4 June 2007
After the storm, my mine cleared.
And a high wind arose and blew the tropics north.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
running quartz crystals through a blender.
sand through your engines.
bubble in your bays.
estuaries reaching out toward forbidden seas…
sand through your eyes.
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
5 June 2007
Calm as baby’s breath
as peaceful as the storm’s eye
Clouds spread and drawn with rough strokes of stratospheric winds
a warm and windy tropical day.
That’s great,Steph!
I’m coming to your show on the 9th,and I can’t wait! Anyway, thats really great! Love the sweater! I’m going to go ahead and be evil for a sec here: I have something that im going to give to you in Victoria,but you’ll have to wait to see what it is!(My, aren’t I the evil one…)
See you in Victoria, and remember, I can’t wait!
-Colleen
That’s great,Steph!
I’m coming to your show on the 9th,and I can’t wait! Anyway, thats really great! Love the sweater! I’m going to go ahead and be evil for a sec here: I have something that im going to give to you in Victoria,but you’ll have to wait to see what it is!(My, aren’t I the evil one…)
See you in Victoria, and remember, I can’t wait!
-Colleen
That cat has to be a Maine Coon mix – tufted ears, big ruff, right face shape. Simple the bestest pusses in the universe. I’m a volunteer for Maine Coon Adoptions and have an 18-year old one myself.
So looking forward to seeing you in Petaluma – I’m only driving about 3 hours, so the ladies from SoCal have me beat on distance by a long shot! But I do have some home-made goodies for you as a bribe to sign all 4 of my books!
Safe travels; don’t worry about the guy trying to hit on you – you’ll be armed to fend him off!
That’s great,Steph!
I’m coming to your show on the 9th,and I can’t wait! Anyway, thats really great! Love the sweater! I’m going to go ahead and be evil for a sec here: I have something that im going to give to you in Victoria,but you’ll have to wait to see what it is!(My, aren’t I the evil one…)
See you in Victoria, and remember, I can’t wait!
-Colleen
Yay! You’re coming to Anchorage! I live here, but am driving 8 hrs to fairbanks tomorrow to see my husband, and then 8 hrs back on Sunday(with a 16 mo baby) in time to see you!
And as for the weather? Bring a light jacket or sweater, and you’ll be fine. You probably won’t even have to use it.
That sure is one purdy sweater.
How do you do all this touring and remain cheerful?
gorgeous cat! and looks quite evil at the thought of being displaced! Hope you have a trouble free trip!
Wish you were coming to Seattle this time (or Tacoma), but I’m going to try to talk myself into driving down to Portland. If you can work up the stuff to fly all the way out here, I can drive for a few hours, right?
Please come to Los Angeles. We’d really love it if you did. I’ve toyed with the idea of pestering you daily in the comments to visit LA, but I fear it would be counterproductive as well as make me seem like an unhinged fan girl. Maybe I’ve already acheived that last part. Oops. Anyhoozle, the sweater looks wonderful! Safe travels!
At least at the Portland airport you can get a good beer (Drop Top Amber) and a veggie sausage sandwich at Good Dog Bad Dog (the onions are a must)!
Okay, fess up – what sandals could possibly be amazing enough to desert the Birks for? I was forced to buy a pair of Chaccos last summer – not because they were dressy and grown-up (they aren’t) but because my Birks had to be resoled!
Could I borrow the cat to go mouse hunting in my basement?
May the fairy godperson of travel make your way smooth and your days fun and accompanied by beer.
That cat has such a dont-f***- with-me look on its face it’s a wonder you still had fingers to type the blog post with. S/he is definitely looking like s/he is the owner of that piece of knitting.
On the subject of airport knitting, just be grateful they let you knit – in Australia they wont let you past the security gate with knitting needles, so all airport and plane time is a waste. Not even circulars!
I held onto the dream of driving to Portland as long as I could, but today I had to face the reality that my workload is not going to cooperate (self employed). So I did the next best thing and preordered signed copies of your book, one for myself and one for a friend. I hope your time in Oregon is pleasant. I have to say I admire your gracious attitude towards people and your love of knitters.
You go girl – don’t envy you the travel, but at least it’s “free” knitting time – we’re working on getting you to add Michigan to your tour one of these days – NORTHERN Michigan otherwise known as God’s country with a lot of small, warm, friendly yarn stores waiting for you. And keep up the spinning, a spinning book has to be on the horizon somewhere.
i love, love, love the color of that newly spun yarn!
is it me… or does the cat look seriously pi**ed?
Knit on- you can do it. Finish the sweater. Or what the heck knit while you talk and cast-off while you’re there!
As for clean underwear…. ummm isn’t underwear optional in California? That’s what I hear— but you know- I’m a midwestern girl….I could be wrong.
Apropos of absolutely nothing else said here whatsoever, I just realized that the squiggle between the words “yarn” and “harlot” in the logo at the top of the page is probably a ball of yarn with a couple of knitting needles sticking out of it, not an eye with two very long lashes. Just thought I’d share. 😛
Your cat has to most *eerily* human face I’ve ever seen…
dude you met Crazy Aunt Purl……..l u c k y
Rachel H did you hear……Crazt Aunt Purl…..How cool is that
I ‘ll tell how cool WAY cool WAY to cool
Rachel H did you hear……Crazt Aunt Purl…..How cool is that
I ‘ll tell you how cool WAY cool WAY to cool
Oh, wait until you get to Portland! We have a WONDERFUL airport. No, really, we do! And talk about good coffee; honey, we have better coffee than Seattle (sorry, Seattle!) I pre-ordered my book and have cast on a sock. See you at Powells! (I’ll be the one there early!)
Dear Stephanie,
I wished to inform you that I am attempting to open negotiations with the Mason-Dixie knitters in order to ensure the safe and prompt release and return of your wayward sock. Towards this end, I have offered both Ann and Kay a custom-made Stash Weasel, much like your own Dobby. If Anna and Kay are willing to open negotiations, I will do all that is in my power to convince them to release their hostage. I dearly hope that I will be successful in returning your sock to you.
—-McKenna the Weasel Queen
Your sweater is beautiful! So is your cat!
I hope your travels go smoothly. And I hope that you get some well deserved rest soon. One very bright side of all of your crummy travels is that the people who get to see you (myself included here in Chicago) really do enjoy it. You bring a lot of joy with all that laughter!
Wow, that is one serious cat! And a beautiful sweater that it has possession of.
Gorgeous (but scary) cat!
I was wondering… did it occur to you that you’ve now spent $160 on those baby cardigans… which is the amount you didn’t want to spend on one? I rather suspect you could have gotten four (or more) cardigans out of the full skeins that didn’t come packaged up.
Peonies! Forget about the knitting; I love peonies. They don’t grow here– our winters are too mild, and our summers are too hot.
Nice sweater, though. Are you sure you want to go to Alaska with only one sweater and no jackets, even in June?
I will not whine about winding, nice peonies mine are out too.
Dude, What kind of cat is Millie? I have a cat that looks exactly like her – black cat, amber eyes, gray mane. He is a stray that we adopted so I am curious about his breed. By the way, your cat doesn’t look mean, just mellow. Safe travels and happy knitting.
I will not whine about winding, nice peonies mine are out too.
wowsers you have a lot of comments! I just wanted to say that I’m very much looking forward to seeing you in Victoria BC. I can only hope that the weather will be nice for you because it’s been cold here lately! positive thoughts!!
I am so choked that I can’t get the day off work to come down to the knitout in Victoria! (If you have time, check out The Village cafe and deli in Estevan Village [right next door to a killer yarn shoppe] and ask for Michael.)
The cat looks rather pissed! LOL My cat gives looks like that too!
The cat looks really scary. It was very risky to wrestle the project from her/him.
What’s the chance of you being anywhere in the southeast (maybe Atlanta?)
And the pattern is sold out *WAH!*
I’m coming to Petaluma tomorrow!! Can’t wait to meet you. Hope to see you in your finished sweater 🙂
I’m coming to Petaluma tomorrow!! Can’t wait to meet you. Hope to see you in your finished sweater 🙂
Mmmm, I hate airports, too. I almost broke into a panic attack in one in Salzburg, when I got paranoid that they wouldn’t let me bring my violin back with me on the plane. Was I with an entire symphony of people taking their instruments? Yup. Had we checked ahead of time? Yup. Did everyone in the orchestra and the airport workers all stare at me and wonder what the heck was wrong with me?
Yup.
Hmmm….I’m not sure about the motivator. It’s been pretty warm in Portland lately. I do hope it works out though, because the color of the yarn looks so pretty that I would love to see it all together and completed in person.
I’ll be heading down to Copperfield’s tomorrow, too. It’s been pretty cold and breezy here. But Copperfield’s is nice and warm.
Hi Stephanie!
I’ve been looking forward to seeing you in Petaluma for months, but my daughter’s middle school had the NERVE to schedule her promotion ceremony the same afternoon. (We’re only 3 hours away, I can’t believe they didn’t take your event into consideration when they were planning.)
I’m devastated.
Steph,
I’m looking forward to your visit to Portland.
For good coffee at the Portland Airport, check out Coffee People. There are 5 locations at PDX, the only ones left in town!! Starbucks bought up the rest. Boo! Hiss!
Try some of the local microbrew while you’re here, some seriously good drinking.
Knit Purl at SW 11th & Alder is a few blocks from Powells. Takako will be there with a Habu trunk show on Friday & Saturday. KP also has other beautiful yarn, including Hifa, as in Poetry in Stitches and more silk & cashmere & luxury than you can shake a stick at.
Safe Travelling!
Knitters throughout AK have been waiting your arrival! See you in Town Square and at Title Wave…and maybe we can “steal” you for some libations after…
Maybe up against the pink cord of the circ’s the sweater *appears* green….I think I know why you’re magic looping. You’ve recieved a ransom demand for the sock…daily blog pics of small tubes knit with no dpns. So sad.
I can’t believe that when I move from Petaluma, you go there!! I’m really bummed. Stupid military.
Hi Steph–
You always seem up for another cause, so I’m going to be bold and copy–if it’ll let me–my blog post for today.
I’ve posted here about the library at the Janie Hammit home. Since then, I’ve become even more of a library advocate. (The Hammit girls call me “library lady,”–and I like it.)
In May I had the opportunity to do a full week of school visits in Johnson City, which is about 30 minutes from my hometown. It was a great week–lots of very good schools, and all of them well prepared. One school stuck out, however, because to be honest I’d no idea that there were public schools in this country so completely underfunded. It’s a little rural K-8 school in a poor county next to the county Johnson City itself is in–94% free lunch–my visit was paid for by grant money, and a different grant bought each teacher a single copy of one of my books, for classroom use. I asked the principal about time for book signing, when we reviewed the schedule, and she said very gently that these kids weren’t going to be buying books. They had neither the money nor the background.
So, I brought a bunch of books and we gave them away, randomly, in a free raffle. The kids were excited and it was a good time.
But I had a peek at the library while I was there, and I was horrified. The school as a whole–bad facilities, good kids (almost all kids are good), good faculty trying hard so far as I could tell. Horrible, awful, horrible library. No librarian–an aide instead, who dislikes reading.
When I left I couldn’t get the library out of my mind, so I emailed the principal and offered help, and she was more than gracious–she was thrilled. I emailed Karen Breen, editor of the children’s portion of Kirkus Reviews, whom I am priveleged to call a friend, and she sent me a couple of big cartons of brand new glossy books. I sent off for grants, and I’ve arranged to go in there and start cleaning and sorting and generally raising hellfire.
I decided that this sort of thing is something I am called to do. So I signed up with First Book, an organization that gives away books to children. I had to come up with a name, so I chose A Houseful of Books Appalachia. The Houseful of Books part comes from “A life without books is like a house without windows.” I forget who said that, but I love it. Appalachia because I live there. I have a nice cushy life, but when you get out to places like this elementary school, not far from me–the mountains and fields and sky are so lovely, and the opportunities so few.
Yesterday I was granted 846 books.
When they come, I’ll sort them out by age level and give them away. Every kids in that elementary school, every girl at Janie Hammit, will get half a dozen books to keep forever.
I am so happy.
Dear Stephanie. I have a huge favor to ask.
I have a friend whom I have never met in person, but her friendship means a great deal to me. Her name is Alison Hyde, and I think you will see her in Petaluma. Would you please, if at all possible, give her a hug from me?
Thank you so much.
Millie is evil. I love her.
I cannot believe how you manage to make that sweet, tolerant cat look so malicious in pictures. Then again, I like to think I don’t look as goofy in real life as I often do here (except for the one with Joe and Ken. I do like that one. Can’t beat the company I’ve got in it) so maybe it’s not such a stretch.
So jealous you’re going to Alaska.
The picture of your cat makes me cry! My sister had to put her cat of 13 years to sleep yesterday and he was identical to your cat.
Don’t you wish you could orb, a la Paige on Charmed?
You asked yesterday about a project we could have done over and over again. Its not a project, it was a yarn.
I have no idea what it was called, I cannot even remember what it is made of. Its a lumpy novelty yarn, in browns and blacks with a pearlescent sheen thread too. It was like working with liquid gold, warm and almost living as it went through my hands. It’s heaven when I wear the shawl I made from it, but I sure do wish I could find it again for the joy of working with it.
Ditto on the post about coming to Dallas!! I live in Oklahoma but my daughter lives in Dallas and we would make the trip FOR SURE!!!
The sweater looks like you. Very beautiful! And the cat too.
*smile* after reading this post, i now have michelle shocked singing ‘anchored down in anchorage’ in my head. i hope your trip goes wonderfully well.
The sweater is nice, Steph, nice simple design and all, but it’s still not green (squint or no squint)…..
Rachel, did you say “goofy?” Try http://www.daviddemchuk.com/klam/ , then scroll down to the Indigo appearance, then click on “more” and scroll after the jump.
It is totally worth it. Her percentage of good pictures out there is way too high.
I suppose I should be grateful that the Tulip sweater (& the equally cute Rocketry sweater pattern) is probably too small for my younger monkey. It’s bad enough I’ve started my Dream in Color Smooshy sock yarn collection (2 skeins, woo!) due to Cookie A’s gushing.
Have a great time in the North Bay today. It’ll warm as the day goes on, so you’ll have time to work on that beautiful sweater before you need to wear it.
Good god, is that you using a circular? Magic loop?? Is it possible that the King car finally ate so many dpns that you have to resort to this? Whatever the reason – stay on the dark side! It’s better over here…really…
Have a safe trip! Can’t wait to see what you’re knitting on next!!
See you tonight in Petaluma! I hope you finished your sweater in time 🙂
what an amazing beautiful cat!!
and a nice pullover too 🙂
I’m a little late here, but it was great to be at your stop at WEBS. I had a great time (and even got some knitting done). AND I got lace blockers. And sock yarn. And your first book, on audio, which was very good company for the 2 hour drive home.
(Hope you liked the chocolates, it was an eclectic selection, I know!)
Eileen-in-the-vintage-dress
the sweater looks great!
I am so sad to be missing this time around in Portland! You are always such a kick to listen to. Bizarrely enough there is a documentary being filmed at my restaurant friday. So if you want to show public television all about KIP bring a group to Nostrana after the talk;)
Of course, with the whole “wear clean underwear in case you get hit by a truck” thing what no one seems to take into account is … well, if your underwear was spotless before it sure won’t be after! So I agree; less underwear more knitting!
Also, the yarn for that sweater is gorgeous. Got some serious yarn lust going on here.
Have a good and safe trip!
My darling, darling Rams. Just one more reason to love you. Thank you for that link.
While, I’m beyond thrilled your coming to Portland…again..in less than a year. I’m starting to be a bit concerned about the whole “are you taking care of yourself” thing? Is this still fun for you? Does your family recognize you? Now that I have voiced my concern over your health and welfare, everything for tomorrow night is being rescheduled because I just can’t miss this!
Portland? Tomorrow?? Now I’m going to go rearrange everything to see if I can make it tomorrow. Maybe I’ll even drag along my Sister-in-law and try to convince her to become a knitter. She’s wavering, maybe you can push her over the edge….
O.M.G. crazy Aunt Purl. Oh Alaska sounds pretty cool too. Bring back gum.
O.M.G. crazy Aunt Purl. Oh Alaska sounds pretty cool too. Bring back gum.
I’ll make cupcakes when you get home.
You bring gum.
Hi Rachel H.
You like cupcakes too,right?
Sounds like a lovely trip, safe travels.
Keep your friends close and your socks closer!
Can’t wait to see you in Anchorage on the 11th! We’ll be Representing in Town Square that afternoon 4 – 6 pm. The Guilds will be there, and an assortment of free range knitters. Everybody bringing their knitting and a lawn chair, Knitting in Public amid the bright flowers by the big fountain. Then on to the Title Wave store for the 7 pm do. It’s gonna be great fun beneath the midnight sun!
Ooh, nice spinnage. Happy traveling and can’t wait to see all your adventures as you head out again.
So, Stephanie, is that in real, actual Hannibal Lector of cats?
I’ll make cupcakes when you get home.
You bring gum.
Hi Rachel H.
You like cupcakes too,right?
I’m with Dorothy B – a picture of Da and Cat, please! Also, I know from cats, and that is a premier example of “Baleful Look Felinus”. Even if no one else says so, that kitty misses you when you’re gone. Hence the sweater sitting. (Also that’s a testament to its quality; cats don’t sit on inadequate knitting, it’s in their contract.) Bon Voyage; I am SO wishing I could be personal private secretary to the Wonder Publicist…..
LOOOVVEE da Cattitude!!! And you can trust the last comment B4 mine, above, that is my Evil Twin talking, and _she_ knows what’s what with Cattitudes 😀
Wish you were coming to THIS end of California… Santa Barbara loves yarn!
Scritch the Most Gorgeous Cat for me.
Stephanie,
I hope you enjoy your trip and fins lots of cool new yarn. :-p
I’m glad to see I’m not the only one loving the pink peonies in bloom in the yard!
Stephanie,
I hope you enjoy your trip and fins lots of cool new yarn. :-p
I’m glad to see I’m not the only one loving the pink peonies in bloom in the yard!
Yarn Harlot was wonderful in Petaluma. She had to stand on a box because no one could see her petite self! Such drive and purpose and vision knit into a small woman…she was funny, warm, quick, gracious and smart as hell. And she stayed s.o.o.o.o. late signing everyone’s book – I don’t know how she does it. Thank you for including Northern California on your book tour!
p.s. we left a bag of California grown/spun/dyed yarn at your table, from ‘Barbara, Trudie, Frederique’ We hope you like them and if they don’t find their way to your needles, perhaps to one of your many give-away packages and prizes.
You’ve probably mentioned this in another post, but what yarn are you using? It’s beautiful!