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Thank you for tuning in to Episode 299 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Crafty Adventures Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Bella Fio and Wild Violet Fibers   Visit us at wildvioletfibers.com to shop our latest collections and sign up for shop updates. Splash Pad Party participants can use discount code SPLASH25 for 15% off their order.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   103 Hat Pattern: 103 Hat by Jennifer Lassonde. $5 Knitting Pattern available on  Ravelry & LoveCrafts Yarn: Malabrigo Rios (worsted) in 845 Cirrus Gray Needles: US 5 & US 7 (3.75 & 4.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 115.2 meters (126.0 yards), 60 grams used.   Ebb & Flow Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page This is the repeatable version of the 2023 Advent, with 16 of the original 24 colors. 259.3 meters (283.5 yards). 70 grams   Granny square top Yarn: MC- Cloudbourn Fibers Wool Fingering Twist in Natural (1 skeins), Advent Mini Skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz (Steel Toes Base) & Fibernymph Dye Works (Bounce Base)- both from 2024. Hook: D (3.25 mm) Pattern: none Ravelry Project Page 3 round granny squares: Round 1= more tonal color, Round 2= speckled, Round 3= natural Yarn organization: I put 2 sets of colors in each mostly clear zippered pouch from my Yarnable Subscription kits. It keeps the yarn from the mini skeins from getting tangled. Check out this Instagram reel which highlights. 60 squares total Cloudborn 371.7 meters (406.5 yards), 101 grams Legacy Fiber Artz- 162.9 meters (178.1 yards), 38 grams Fibernymph Dye Works- 60.4 meters (66.0 yards), 16 grams Total: 595 meters. 155 grams   Ball Band with a Twist Cozy Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde. $2 Crochet pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts Hooks: F (3.75 mm) & G (4.25 mm) Yarn: Loops & Thread Classic Cotton in Pewter, Midnight Blue and Bubblegum Ravelry Project Page Stash Dash: 40.3 meters You may also be interested in my more basic jar cozy pattern: Ball Band- Ravelry | LoveCrafts (free)   Stash Dash total for this episode- 1,009.8 meters   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Boss A$$ B|tc# Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Superwash Targhee Fingering in the Boss A$$ B|tc# Colorway (purposely not spelled out here, though it is on the label) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 90g of yarn to start About the Yarn: Self striping with yellow, tan, peach, pink, light aqua, teal & navy Progress: All but the toe of sock 2 is done   Miles' Montessori Toy Pattern: Montessori Colour Sorter by Lexie Warren. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on Crochet River) Hook: D (3.25 mm) Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Purple, Orange, Teal and Cyan. Knit Picks Brava in Canary, Rouge and White. Ravelry Project Page I've gotten some great ideas in the Toy Cabana chat thread on Ravelry Progress: 6 cups and 4 balls are done. Need to do white for center (basket and ball)- then seam together. Clever pattern.   Felici Granny Stripe Blanket Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in Colorways: Punky, Whatits Galore (50g), Space Disco, Carrot Cake, Base Jump, Game Over, Secret Garden, Fiesta Pattern: Granny Stripe by Attic 24 Hook: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 7 colorways with 100g, 1 with 50g. I have another 50g skein I could add in (more of a pain because you have to wind off half). I am matching up stripes so they end at same time or as close as possible. Foundation half-double crochet 101. 1 row of dc (probably could have skipped).   Four Leaf Clover Granny Square Blanket Pattern: Four Leaf Clover Granny Square by by Apinya Roszko Hook: H (5.0 mm) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava 500 in colorway Mint & Loops and Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01808 Size:  6 inch squares. Planning 5x7 blanket (30x42”) before border. Modification- the pattern calls for attaching new yarn (at the end of the square) to make the stem for the clover. I just chain to get to the center, make the stem and cut the yarn. I find it easy to crochet the granny square around it in Mint. No issues and one less end to weave in. I am joining squares as I go. I used this YouTube tutorial to remind me how to do this. Progress: Last time I had seamed 7 full squares. Now I have 14 (of 35) squares done and seamed.   716 Splash Pad Socks Yarn 716 Knit Sock Set  in the 716sock base in the colorway: It needs to be ok with getting on a boat with Levar Burton and never coming back. Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: stripe of black, stripe of bright poolside colors. Cast on June 1 for SPP Kick off. Jenna of 716 also sent me the mini skein set which is part of her SPP Exclusives. What should I do with my minis?? Progress: Leg of first sock nearly finished   From the Armchair   Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall.  Amazon Affiliate Link. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Rachel Incident by Caroline O'Donoghue. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Crafty Adventures I came home from a massage dying to paint. I pulled out my watercolors and painted the sensations of my pain and the colors I associated with each. I'll be playing with this concept more in the future (hopefully next time on actual watercolor paper and maybe using other media too).   Knitting in Passing A nice gentleman said my crochet was beautiful and that he crochets. I showed him my tank top which was nearly done at the time. We went to a grad party for my SIL and a friend of hers remembered me from Zach's birthday. She wants to crochet so we talked about resources etc. Reconnected with some of Dan's cousins recently. His cousin Melissa and I often talk books, so that was fun but she also said she'd like to learn to knit and/or crochet. Hoping to get together with her for lunch in Boston soon. Thank you to Suzanne- Sew Run It for the beautiful handknit hat and three knit hearts for my birthday. She started it shortly after my mom passed. Her notes say "The colors screamed Diane! The pattern is called Pair of Hearts and it too felt like a connection with her. I know you were and will remain close." Pattern= Pair of Hearts is by Chit Chat Knits and is available on Ravelry for $4.50. Lauren lbeth21 messaged me with Jess from Stitched by Jessalu at Central NY Fiber Fest Susie of The Huckleberry Girl offered to send me a bag. I was thinking of summer and Splash Pad when looking at her shop and she had a bag with Blueberries and Butterflies which made me think of Mom. So special. Thank you, Susie.   KAL News Splash Pad Party Registration is open View Stats and/or Verify Registration here. Check out our Sponsor List Splash Pad Official Rules Enter your FOs using the Summer Celebration Form. Then come over to this Ravelry Thread to share pics and let us ooh and ahh with you! Submit something incorrectly? Need help? Fill out this Support Form & we'll be in touch.   Splash Pad RAVELRY Links Start Here Thread Pro Shop Exclusive Items Thread Coupon Codes Thread Questions Thread   Events Stash Dash hosted by the Knit Girllls- May 29th-August 30th Summer Bingo with the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast . Get your Bingo Card on Instagram. Sock Week hosted by Knitty Natty- July 20-27 Goal is to complete 1 adult sock during Sock Week Tour de Fleece: July 5-July 27 . Tour de Fleece Ravelry Group. Rest Days: Tuesday, July 15 and Monday, July 21. Challenge Days: The first one is Stage 10, on Monday, July 14. The second is Stage 15, on Sunday, July 20. Summer Spin In hosted by Marsha & Kelly of Two Ewes Fiber Adventure. May 31- September 1. All spinning and making with handspun yarn counts. Preparing fleeces also counts. Let's go! Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA- August 8-10 Fiber Revival in Newbury, MA- August 16th   Life in Focus   I shared about my Summer Bucket List and the graphic/template I created for my Patrons. Do you have any ideas for me? My Word of the Year for 2025 is Welcome. I recently received a beautiful cross stitched piece with the word Welcome on it from Heidi, Yarnitheidi on Instagram and Ravelry. Thank you, Heidi!   On a Happy Note   The Splash Pad Kick Off Virtual sessions were so much fun! The Waitress at the North Shore Music Theater (closes 6/15) Cellar clean out, using new shelves and bins to organize. We also gathered a lot of items to donate. Playing Five Crowns, totally exhausted, crushing the guys (had a score of 3 then 7 for most of the game) and then going home to sleep. Quality time at the nail salon with Riley Knitting by the pool as Riley, Garret & Millie took their first dip. Will's high school graduation party. Flowers for my birthday Red Sox game with my Dad. A stressful work project really ramped up on my birthday. My friend got yummy pastries for us to share in the office. Celebrating my birthday with Dan, Dad, Riley Garret and Millie. Really funny birthday videos from Gabriella & Zachary. Audible sale. I got a ton of great books and I'm really excited about reading again. Daisies are finally starting to come in. They grow wild in our yard but they're late this year.   Quote of the Week “A well-composed book is a magic carpet on which we are wafted to a world that we cannot enter in any other way.”   ― Caroline Gordon     Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 296 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu (2nd Episode of the Month)   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Pop Tart Pattern: None Yarn: Knit Picks Brava & Joann Big Twist Value Solids in Natural Colorway + variegated yarn (fingering weight held double) Hook:C (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Made for Eme's birthday as a cute something to open. Gifted with a box of edible poptarts.   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color Ravelry Project Page Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Progress: All of the spinning of the singles is done- finally.   David... Fold in the cheese socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz in the David...Fold in the cheese!!!! colorway (with cream/gray mini skein) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn- cream, pink and blue to match rose apron David wears in this episode of Schitt's Creek. I did a shorter than usual leg- 5.25 inches and 9.5 inch foot. The first sock 28 grams, using CC for toe and cuff, so I should have enough for a second pair of socks with this yarn.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Hot pink spinning Fiber: Mountain Vewe Coopworths Fiber in hot pink (no specific colorway name)- three 4oz bumps Ravelry Project Page Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Progress: ~1/2 way through first bump. 1st bobbin nearly full.   Granny Square Tan Top Yarn: MC- Cloudbourn Fibers Wool Fingering Twist in Natural (1 skeins), Advent Mini Skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz (Steel Toes Base) & Fibernymph Dye Works (Bounce Base)- both from 2024. Hook: D (3.25 mm) Pattern: none Ravelry Project Page 3 round granny squares: Round 1= more tonal color, Round 2= speckled, Round 3= natural Yarn organization: I put 2 sets of colors in each mostly clear zippered pouch from my Yarnable Subscription kits. It keeps the yarn from the mini skeins from getting tangled. Progress: Squares to date: 25 squares.   Boss A$$ B|tc# Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Superwash Targhee Fingering in the Boss A$$ B|tc# Colorway (purposely not spelled out here, though it is on the label) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 90g of yarn to start About the Yarn: Self striping with yellow, tan, peach, pink, light aqua, teal & navy Progress: cast on 1st sock. Finished cuff and an inch or two into leg.   Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl Pattern: Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl by Anita Suriaa- $5.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted Hook: 2.5 mm Progress: I've made T-Rex head and body. Thought I'd run out the yarn for the body (25g mini).   Brainstorming Advent brainstorm- Granny Wrap available on Ravelry. Kristina- foryouandyarn- reminded me that I love Ali's Starryeyesali's Ravelry Project Page.   From the Armchair The Crow Trap by Ann Cleves.  Amazon Affiliate Link. A Window Opens by Elisabeth Egan. Amazon Affiliate Link. Annie Bot by Sierra Greer.  Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing My cousin Ava knit the Storm Sweater by Petite Knit for her boyfriend Luke. Pattern available on Ravelry & the Petite Knit Website (~$8 knitting pattern)   KAL News The Splash Pad Party celebrates its 10th year and officially opens on June 1st. Save the date for some fun kick off events that day! Interested in sponsoring? Check out this link for details.   Events New Hampshire Sheep and Wool:  May 10-11 in Deerfield, NH Webs Tent Sale: May 16-17 in Northhampton, MA Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 24 & 25- Cummington, MA Flock Fiber Festival in Seattle, WA August 8-10     Life in Focus I shared an update on my Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome & some 25 in 2025 list.   25 in 2025 list 1) Donate Blood at least 4 times (January, March) 4) Go camping (scheduled for June) 10) Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts) 13) Get at least 2 massages at Oasis (1 in April) 17) Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog 2&3: Love Bugs, 4 pop-tart, 5 butterfly. WIPs-Another butterfly & TRex) 18) Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Done monthly so far) 23) Buy a firebox and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it) https://www.thenokbox.com (Debbie, deafelis recommended) 25) Purge at least 20 items of clothing/accessories/shoes Probably have at least this much done   On a Happy Note Shucked musical. We had dinner at Democracy Brewing beforehand. Delicious tacos and good beer. Celebrating April Birthdays Decorating for Easter with Dad, Millie and Garret Celebrating Easter with the family! The Pulse on Netflix- my cousin Michael William Freeman was in the last few episodes. I survived tech week and had the forethought to take off Friday before opening weekend. Laura came in from NYC for my show. Opening of Kiss Me Kate!   Quote of the Week “Because the birdsong might be pretty, But it's not for you they sing, And if you think my winter is too cold, You don't deserve my spring.” ― Erin Hanson   ------   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 294 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing In my Travels Events Contest, News & Notes Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Find Stitched by Jessalu at the Fiber Witch Festival Marketplace: April 12-13 in Salem, MA. The Market is 11a-5p Sat & Sunday and market tickets are still available. Pre-purchase or tickets will be available at the door for either day. The 3-5 slot each day is free, so go find Jess and her beautiful bags there!   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Aila's Daisy Socks Yarn: On The Round Nimble Sock (85%/15% SW Merino/Nylon) in the Forage colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 & US 2 Progress: Cast on 60 sts. Worked 1x1 ribbing. Increased up to 64 sts. Switched to US 2 needles for colorwork.  Then decreased back to 60 sts shortly after, a few rows later back to 56 sts. Knit about 2 inches before turning the heels.   How Time Flies Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the How Time Flies Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn- cream base with pink, green. January 2024 Yarnable Colorway: Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color Ravelry Project Page Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Progress: 3rd bobbin done and onto the 4th. This is the batt that never ends!   Calendula Christmas Quilt Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US. Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose, Gray Hook:  G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory. Goal: 6 per week Progress: I am still ahead of schedule!   Some Bunny Loves You Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Some Bunny Loves You Colorway (Yarnable April 2023 colorway) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- cream base with speckles of purple, blue, rust. Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link   Inclinations Cowl Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. My Ravelry Project Page Living in my FearLESS Living Fund bag from Stitched by Jessalu. Bags are still available! Check them out.   Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl Pattern: Dinosaur T-Rex and Pterodactyl by Anita Suriaa- $5.99 crochet pattern on Ravelry Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted Hook: 2.5 mm Progress: I've made T-Rex head and body.   Brainstorming   T Jaik flower crochet patterns- check them out on Ravelry. They are so realistic I didn't think they were actually crochet photos! Teddy Bear Eyeglasses holder by Tanya Naser-  free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Eme's Very Hungry Caterpillar Socks   From the Armchair The Crash by Freida McFadden.  Amazon Affiliate Link. Colored Television by Danzy Senna.  Amazon Affiliate Link. I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai. Amazon Affilitate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing On Wed night before music rehearsal Megg asked me to help her cast on a Love Bug with Bernat Blanket to practice for school. (free crochet pattern on Ravelry). Yarn has a lot of twist, got all tangly and we stayed after to untangle it together while other cast members performed on stage. On the first night of rehearsal one of my cast-mates asked about my knitting and through that conversation we figured out we've worked together before. She was the choreographer when I was in a production of Crazy for You at a local community college when I was in high school. I wore my Aurealis sweater (Ravelry Project Page) one night to music rehearsal and my friend Deana complimented it and I told her I knit it! Laura's sock drawer! How gorgeous is this?   In My Travels Vegas trip for BOSS Reseller Remix & FearLESS Living Fund 2025 Awards We gave away 2 $5,000 scholarships Mom's friend Crystal got a fearless tattoo on her arm. We enjoyed visiting the Sphere to see the Postcards from Earth documentary. We checked out the Bellagio Conservatory for their beautiful display of Easter decor/flowers. Knitting at craps table with Jeff. The manager told me he doesn't see many firsts anymore but I was the first person he'd ever seen knitting in a casino before. He came back a few minutes later asking what I was making- definitely intrigued. It took until the last day- walking through New York New York to find Wizard of Oz slots Mom loved best. It was obviously a bittersweet trip. Ryan Wilson said it best when he said before talking about 2 winners- in some ways this is the most important year because its the first one without Mom and we're still doing it. If you want to see the awards presentation, here's a link to video on my YouTube channel.   Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission Megg, Riley and I went in the morning. Riley wore her crocheted flowered top (Ravelry Project Page). I wore my Aurealis (Ravelry Project Page)- finally got good FO photos for my Project Pages. I purchased punch needle coasters for my car cup holders from Gina the Botina We also purchased mini skeins from 2 makers- that I sent home with Riley East Coast Yarn Co Wild Violet Fibers Riley picked out a delicious cinnamon roll from Union Square Donuts that we shared. Megg got some cute crafty projects for her kids for Easter/graduations.   Events   Fiber Marketplace- April 5th at the Union Bluff Hotel in York, Maine (kick off party on the 4th at the Yarn Sellar store) Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD New Hampshire Sheep and Wool:  May 10-11 in Deerfield, NH Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA   Contest, News & Notes   I heard about GoSadi in Vogue Knitting email. Have you heard of it?   Ask Me Anything Instagram- Knitbakecook- Do you ever have crafting slumps? If so, how do you overcome them? Yes! Sometimes it helps just to lean into that, don't pressure yourself and then lean back in when you get the urge. More often, what works best is to start something new (or pick back up something that is exciting you). Ideally something small like a hat or a toy so you get that dopamine hit of finishing something fun to get those creative juices flowing. Search your Ravelry favorite or queue, browse Instagram or Pinterest and let yourself day dream a little. Creative time should be fun so find the fun and you'll be excited to get back into things. Instagram- ndoyal- When are you coming to the PNW?! I am planning to go to Flock in August. Instagram- nukerklein- Have you been or are you planning to go to VT Sheep & Wool in the fall? This year it's October 4-5 (Dad's birthday- so likely not this year) Check out this vlog from 2024 trip to VT Sheep & Wool. NDoyal- Dates for Splash Pad Sunday June 1 through Thursday July 31st. Would folks be interested if we did Zoom events Sunday 6/1?   On a Happy Note St. Patrick's Day at my cousin's. Emelie "cutting" my hair. Lea made us acrylic pieces with Mom's funeral flowers in them. Keychain, bottle opener and bookmark Riley sleepover- Sample sale (bought matching PJs). Silly pics in the closet before bed. Ushering for Rent at The Company Theatre. Addams Family Musical and Lolita with Megg Dinner with Liz My favorite massage therapist is back at Massage Envy Bike riding with Dan Dinner out at a local Italian place for a friend's birthday. Thrifting and finally watching Kiss Me Kate (movie) with Megg   Quote of the Week One of the pleasures of getting older is that one can get so much nearer to one's own people, and that the dear ones of them become dearer all the time. –Willa Cather   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 293 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsor- The Yarn Sellar. Fiber Marketplace 2025- SATURDAY APRIL 5 , 2025 from 10-3pm at the Union Bluff Hotel 8 Beach Street, York Beach Maine 207-363-1333. Join us for a fun-filled party on Friday, April 4th from 5:30-7:00 Andra Asars (Berroco rep) will be hosting our event. Tickets are on sale in the shop and our online shop. You may win a prize. $25 (only 25 tickets)   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Aurealis Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass ($8 US Ravelry Knitting Pattern) Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm) Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) Ravelry Project Page Size: C Mods: Bottom ribbing- 2x2 instead of 1x1. Ribbing on sleeves is also 2x2   Love Bugs Pattern: Love Bug by Trish Hoskin (free crochet pattern on Ravelry) Hook: C- 2.75 mm Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Worsted & Knit Picks Brava Worsted Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Ebb & Flow Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: first sock done. I cast on the second.   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color Ravelry Project Page Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Progress: Nearly finished with my 3rd bobbin of fiber   Calendula Christmas Quilt Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US. Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose, Gray Hook:  G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory. Goal: 6 per week Crocheted 7 last week.   Aila's Daisy Socks Yarn: On The Round Nimble Sock (85%/15% SW Merino/Nylon) in the Forage colorway Pattern: None (will likely use OMG heel) Needles: US 1.5 & US 2 Ravelry Project Page I cast on 60 sts. Worked 1x1 ribbing and daisy pattern I charted out using US 1.5 needles. Way too tight. In listening to another podcast, I was reminded that going up a needle size may help. Reknit colorwork section with US 2. Too tight. Washed and blocked to be sure AND to see if I liked the fabric with a US 2. I do. Increased up to 64 sts. Used US 2 for colorwork. Then decreased back to 60 sts shortly after, a few rows later back to 56 sts. Knit about 2 inches.   Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Adrift on an Inland Sea Socks colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   From the Armchair The Secret History by Donna Tartt.  Amazon Affiliate Link. How to Stop Time by Matt Haig.  Amazon Affiliate Link. The God of the Woods by Liz Moore.  Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing Annissa from The Stitch House sat down next to me on train and asked about knitting. It was great catching up with her.   KAL News All Pigskin Grand Prize Winners have been emailed.   Events Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission Fiber Marketplace- April 5th at the Union Bluff Hotel in York, Maine (kick off party on the 4th at the Yarn Sellar store) Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA   Contest, News & Notes   Stitched by Jessalu FearLESS Living Fund Bags have raised $194! You can find the bags here & 30% of the sales go towards the FearLESS Living Fund!   Life in Focus   25 in 2025 List- I've made progress on these items Donate Blood at least 4 times (1 in January) Buy new ski boots- DONE Record 2-5 things I'm grateful for each day before bed (more days than not counts) Read all of Simple Abundance (ideally daily or close to) Get at least 2 massages at Oasis scheduled See 2-5 movies in the theater (Paddington in Peru) Knit 2-5 garments for me (Aurealis & WIP- Monsoonee Sweaters) Finish and enjoy my Christmas Granny Square Blanket Crochet at least 5 toys (1: hedgehog, 2 love bugs) Use my spinning wheel at least once a month (Jan & Feb, March done) Try out 3 new to me podcasts (Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend) Buy a fireproof box and put important papers inside (working with Dan on list of things to put in it)   On a Happy Note A luxurious mani/pedi Dinner with my cousins down in Plymouth. A lovely visit with my grandmother- got her TV working so she could watch the Red Sox again. Pushing outside of my comfort zones in music rehearsals for Kiss Me Kate, but really enjoying the dancing. 2 hours of tap on Sunday! Loved every second. I went to dinner and to see a local production of Rent on Friday evening. My all time favorite show. Season 2 of Silo on Apple TV Paradise on Hulu   Quote of the Week   I cannot think of myself apart from the influence of the two or three greatest friendships of my life, and any account of my own growth must be that of their stimulating and enlightening influence.   –Edith Wharton ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 292 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos are available on my website.    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming Some Years Later Crafty Adventures Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu . Find Jessalu at NETA Spa in Freeport, Maine from February 28-March 2:  check out the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/netaspa2025/. FearLESS Living Fund bags available now- click here. 30% of sales go to our FearLESS Living Fund.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Stranger Things 2 Socks Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2 Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress- nearly to toe of first sock   Ebb & Flow Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Ebb & Flow colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Aurealis Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 4 (3.5 mm) Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) Size: C   Calendula Christmas Quilt Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US. Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose Hook:  G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.   Brainstorming   I'd like to knit a balaclava for skiing Convertible Balaclava by Poppy Shop- available on Ravelry, Etsy & Poppy Shop website for $9.50 Canadian (worsted weight yarn, ribbed below nose) Crayon Balaclava by Mia Filisch- available on Ravelry for free. Calls for Aran weight yarn- 3 sizes. would need to gauge swatch and see if I can adjust for lighter yarn. Stripes Ski Mask by Leisure Arts- available on their website for $5.99. See link on Ravelry as well.   I'm also debating something that goes over ski helmet and maybe a fair isle fingering weight sweater for me!   Some Years Later   Love the set that matches my ski coat. Winter Carnival Hat by Margaret Stauffacher- Ravelry Project Page (DK fair isle) In a Fog Mittens by Allison O'Mahony - Ravelry Project Page Drawn Together cowl by Shana Cohen- Ravelry Project Page   Crafty Adventures Millie and Hattie wanted to get crafty during their birthday sleepover. We bought some supplies at the Dollar Tree & Millie brought a paper bead making kit I gave her for Christmas. Check out Episode 2 of Millie Makes on the Down Cellar Studio Youtube Channel. For fibery crafts, Millie shared some progress on her Dads hat, Hattie practiced treadling on my spinning wheel and Hattie & I made pompoms. I want to turn mine into a garland.   Knitting in Passing I met a lovely listener named Emily in an elevator at work!   In My Travels Last weekend, my brother Jeff and 2 of his kids- Riley and Garret, my friend Megg, her daughter Hattie, son Oisin & Oisin's girlfriend Ginger and I all went skiing at Sunday River in Maine.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Tune in to hear if you won one of our 12 Grand Prizes. I will email winners in about a week, to give you time to tune in.   Events Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA Knit North Yarn Crawl: March 13-16. Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission Knit for Food a thon April 5th  http://www.nelkindesigns.com/index.cfm/page/knitathon/knitathon25.htm  sign up the first weekend in February. Fiber Marketplace- April 5th at the Union Bluff Hotel in York, Maine (kick off party on the 4th at the Yarn Sellar store) Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA. Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA   On a Happy Note I took Millie and Hattie to the new Paddington in Peru movie which was really cute. Using Hattie's Shadow Play Book- Wizard of Oz book before bed! Pancakes in the morning! We brought dinner to a friend who has been facing medical challenges (and thankful Dad let us cook at his house when we lost power)! Dinner with my first boss and her partner. They spoiled me rotten and it was so great catching up. Silly braids for skiing! Megg gifted me 3 skeins of alpaca yarn from her trip to the Azores! 50g skeins in white, gray and a peachy/pink! Can't wait to use them. New haircut!   Quote of the Week   Sometimes you are aware when your great moments are happening and sometimes they arise from the past. Perhaps it's the same with people. -JAMES SALTER   ------   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.      

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 290 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Find full show ntoes with photos on my website: www.downcellarstudio.com    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Next month you can find Stitched by JessaLu bags in her online shop, and in person at NETA Spa in Freeport, Maine from February 28-March 2. NETA Spa is a great midwinter weekend gathering for fiber enthusiasts - check out the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/netaspa2025/   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Freckled Whimsy 2024 Advent Socks Yarn: Freckled Whimsy Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Inclinations Cowl Inclinations Cowl by Andrea Mowry ($7.00 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website. Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Yarn: 2 skeins of handspun Color A: Fiber Addict Designs 100% Merino in the Wild Plum Colorway- Ravelry link. Color B: Candombe, I think the fiber is from Malabrigo- Ravelry link. My Ravelry Project Page Living in my FearLESS Living Fund bag from Stitched by Jessalu. She's filling pre-orders from last year first and then will put new listings up for sale so stay tuned.   Aurealis Pattern: Aurealis by Jennifer Steingass Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Highland DK in the Gray Heather colorway (MC) & Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks DK in the Vermont Vice colorway (CC) Size: C My washed swatch was closer to 17/18 sts over 4 inches instead of the 20 it calls for so I'm knitting a different size to accommodate.   Stranger Things 2 Socks Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party using Snack Shack Sponsor yarn. About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red. Progress- first sock is done. Second sock is a few stripes from the heel.   Woolens & Nosh 2024 Advent Socks #2 Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Project Fiber: Cold Goats Farm; believe it is a merino/mohair batt (8oz) in a natural, undyed cream color Ravelry Project Page Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Progress: Nearly finished with my second bobbin of fiber   Calendula Christmas Quilt Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova available on Ravelry for $7.50 US. Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose Hook:  G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page granny squares- 1 color or 2 (colors on each half a diagonal) I used Canva to help me figure out color placement to extend out the quilt pattern. I am seaming squares using the Mattress Stitch. I started working on this after being inspired by NDJen04's video about her scrappy blanket- you can find that find on YouTube. I had the 2 color (on the diagonal) granny square memorized but totally forgot how to do those. Here's a helpful video I found that helped refresh my memory.   From the Armchair   One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   In My Travels   My 12 year old niece, Millie, joined me to do a little recap of our visit to Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA.   The sample we saw in the Plied booth is called Super Serene- available on Ravelry.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Official Sponsor for Q4: Fibernymph Dye Works- Small Gains Challenge (January 2025). Check out this Ravelry Thread for details. Commentator Mary Klute's report-   It had been very cold lately in North America, even in places that are typically pretty warm in the winter (like Florida getting snow!). This has been no problem for pigskin partiers! The cold weather creates the perfect conditions for cozying up and finishing projects!  In the huddle, there has been lots of discussion about what folks can reasonably finish before the end of the party. There was also an interesting discussion about how many WIPs folks can manage at one time. Unsurprisingly, there are a lot of different opinions on that.  Earlier this month, 43 players submitted for points as part of the Wild Card WIP challenge! Head on over to that thread to see pictures of projects that players had let languish or even forgot about--butnow they are finished!   ladida2u finished some beautiful colorwork mittens just in time for some snow:  https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/1-25#16 plumunou finished a pair of socks.  She'd abandoned the project because the first sock came out too short in the foot--let's face it, we've all been in this sort of situation--this challenge motivated her to finish the second sock and rip out the toe of the first one to lengthen the foot. Now she has a super cute pair of socks:  https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/26-50#34 histoknitter finished a pair of socks that were started in 2007!  Way to go!  https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/26-50#37 hikesandbikes finished a fantastic sweater that is made up of mitered squares.  It's amazing!   https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/51-75#58 and speaking of mitred squares, knitternicole finished a blanket!  She planned out how much of the icord border she needed to do each day to finish and got it done during wild card week:  https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/down-cellar-studio-podcast/4344427/51-75#67   Events New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA Knit North Yarn Crawl: March 13-16. Boston Public Market Fiber Fest- Sunday March 23 from 10a-5p. Free Admission Knit for Food a thon April 5th  http://www.nelkindesigns.com/index.cfm/page/knitathon/knitathon25.htm  sign up the first weekend in February. Fiber Witch Festival: April 11-13 in Salem, MA. Gore Place Sheep Sheering Festival- Saturday April 26 from 10a-5p in Waltham, MA. Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Saturday April 26 from 9a-4p in North Haven, CT Yarncentrick: May 2 in Fredrick, MD Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 3 & 4 in West Friendship, MD Sheep & Wool Festival at Coggeshall Farm: May 17 in Bristol, RI Massachusetts Sheep & Wool Festival- May 24 & 25 in Cummington, MA   Contest, News & Notes   Stitched by Jessalu FearLESS Living Fund bags are going out this week and next! 30% going to FearLESS Living Fund. More bags will be listed soon on her website so stay tuned. You can buy the FearLESS Living Fund fabric that Jess designed on Spoonflower. I don't think I shared but Mom opened hers right before Christmas and cried. It was really beautiful. You can find on my Day 24 Vlogmas video- click here to go right to that part of the video. Check out the Millie Makes section on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Video 1 is up! I've joined Bluesky. I'm Bostonjen1 over there. Come follow-me. Not leaving Instagram, at least not yet, but I'm checking it out.   Thank you to KnittyELF40, Erika, who kindly gifted me her new bundle of patterns- Seasonal Blooms on Ravelry.   Life in Focus   My Word of the Year for 2025: Welcome Verb: to greet hospitably and with courtesy or cordiality Verb: to accept with pleasure the occurrence or presence of Adjective: giving pleasure: received with gladness or delight especially in response to a need (A welcome addition)   Why I need this word: This year will be a year filled with first after Mom's passing on January 1st. I need to welcome in the new year even when it feels hard, and welcome in whatever emotions come up as I make my way through 2025. I've spent much time in the last few years focused on my mom (and I'm so glad I could do that), but now I'll have free time to welcome in new things. I want to be thoughtful about my time, but also open to welcoming in new things that will bring me joy. My mother made everyone feel welcome and at home whether physically in her home or just with her as a person. I strive to make people feel welcome in my presence too and to use that to continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and connection. I hope that this will help me keep alive the many relationships that Mom was able to maintain. I am an introvert by nature and love the prospect of staying hour with hours of myself to plot out- but I know that I am happier and more fulfilled when I stay connected with those I love, so this year when I'm tempted to say "no thanks" I will try, when possible, to instead say "we'll come" a variation on welcome.   On a Happy Note About 20 people showed up for one of Garret's hockey games that was nearby! Beautiful show of support and a fun night out. I found the jewelry Mom gave me for Christmas! Surprise surprise, it was in a bag of knitting stuff that was brought home and put down cellar. While I missed auditions as we prepped for the funeral, I got a dancing role in Kiss Me Kate with Meg. The show is the last week of April/first weekend in May. Millie came for a 2 night sleepover during MLK weekend. She made us pancakes! Organizing my mom's things. Eme came over and we look through craft supplies for a new project they want to do. I found a few things for me (mostly scissors and crochet hooks) and I purged some. I put away the Christmas tree and put my new plant stand in place! I love it. Dan was going to order me a plant subscription, but instead we'll go together to a local place a few times a year and try to learn a little more about houseplants. Dinner with my cousins at local Mexican restaurant. I received a beautiful package of watercolor supplies in the mail from Rachel! Thank you so much. I can't wait to dive in. I received many cards and notes from several of you. Thank you!!! Millie, Ryan and I ran into listener, Donna, at Russell's. So lovely to see you! Last weekend Riley came for a sleepover Saturday night. On Sunday, we picked up Aila and checked out one of her favorite antique stores and had a lot of fun browsing. Dan invited my Dad, Tom and Oisin for dinner at The Snug. Megg, Hattie and I went to see Peter Pan in Boston.   Quote of the Week “Departure of a year welcomes so many new memories” ― Munia Khan   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.      

Recorded live from the Providence St. Vincent Medical Center strike line on 1/25/25, strike day 16. Special thanks to the Oregon Nurses Association.  On January 10, 2025, nearly 5,000 healthcare professionals began an open-ended strike, calling on Providence Health & Services to put their patients before profits by offering a fair contract to frontline caregivers. The strike includes doctors, nurses, advanced practice providers, and midwives from eight Providence Oregon hospitals and six clinics.  At issue: Providence's alleged unfair labor practices, dangerously understaffed hospitals, the ability to spend more time with patients, employee healthcare, and competitive wages and benefits to be able to recruit and retain more caregivers. In this special episode, Nurse Jessica and Nurse Erica interview three of the registered nurses, an internal medicine physician, and a certified nurse midwife. The conversation includes concerns regarding hospital administration's disconnect from patient care and the impact of management decisions on provider retention. The discussion delves into the financial dynamics of the organization, the importance of fair compensation, and the need for genuine negotiations to ensure safe patient care. They discuss issues such as high turnover rates, safety concerns related to staffing ratios, the impact of insurance changes, while criticizing Providence Health's tactics and corporate greed. The conversation underscores their determination to hold the line until their demands are met. Thank you to our sponsor, Stink Balm Odor Blocker! Please visit:  https://www.stinkbalmodorblocker.com/ and use promo code UNCORKED15 for 15% off your purchase! Thank you to our Enema Award Sponsor, Happy Bum Co. Please visit https://happybumco.com/ and use promo code NURSESUNCORKED for 15% off your first bundle. Interested in Sponsoring the Show?  Email with the subject NURSES UNCORKED SPONSOR to nursesuncorked@nursesuncorked.com   Help Us Keep This Podcast going and become an official Patron of Nurses Uncorked! Gain early access to episodes, patron only bonus episodes, giveaways and earn the title of becoming either a Wine Cork, Wine Bottle, Decanter, Grand Preserve, or even a Vineyard member for exclusive benefits! Benefits also include patron only Zoom parties, newsletters, shout-outs, and much more. https://patron.podbean.com/nursesuncorkedpodcast Chapters:  00:00 Introduction 06:17 Cocktail of the Week 08:30 Interview with Kyle Cook, Providence Portland Medical Center RN 16:10 Interview with Haily Hirt, Certified Nurse Midwife 23:30 Interview with Dr. Jahnavi Chandrashekar, Internal Medicine Physician 43:05 Interview with Lisa Gregory, CICU RN 56:27 Interview with JoDee Hunter, Emergency Department RN 1:15:00 Donate to the Strike Fund 1:19:17 Enema of the Week Award Donate to the Strike Fund: Fundraiser by Oregon Nurses Association : Support the Providence Strike Fund  Cocktails of the Week: Thank you to Dobbes Family Winery  Seabreeze Vinyard Chardonnay & Untethered Road of Pinot Noir dessert wine Home - Dobbes Family Winery  New episodes of Nurses Uncorked every Tuesday (Monday for patrons!). Help us grow by giving our episodes a download, follow, like the episodes and a 5 ️ star rating!   Please follow Nurses Uncorked at!  https://www.tiktok.com/@nurses.uncorked?_t=8drcDCUWGcN&_r=1 https://instagram.com/nursesuncorked?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== https://youtube.com/@NursesUncorkedL https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094678265742&mibextid=LQQJ4d  You can listen to our podcast at: https://feed.podbean.com/thenurseericarn/feed. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nurses-uncorked/id1698205714 https://spotify.link/8hkSKlKUaDb https://nursesuncorked.com    DISCLAIMER: This Podcast and all related content published or distributed by or on behalf of Nurse Erica, Nurse Jessica Sites or Nurses Uncorked Podcast is for informational purposes only and may include information that is general in nature and that is not specific to you. 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  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 287 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:   Life in Focus Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Knitting in Passing KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Irocknits Designs, Mandi's Makings and Stitched by Jessalu   Life in Focus Join in to hear the latest updates about my Mom's cancer journey   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Owen's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Peace & Light Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows- Pigskin Pro Shop Sponsor   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Hattie's Scrappy Helical Socks Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. Ravelry Project Page Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.   Cold, Cold Heart Socks   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Bee Stacking Toy Pattern: Bee Stacking Toy by Elisa Sartori. $5 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy Yarn: Bernat Blanket in Black & Sunsoaked (yellow) Hook: H (5.0 mm)   Wintermint Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Wintermint Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Moosonee Sweater Pattern: Moosonee Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison. $6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & good night, day website. Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in Deep Lagoon Needles: US 13, 17 & 19 (9, 12 & 15 mm) Pullover sweater similar to the Nanaimo Cardigan I like to make (Here's one of Megg's: Ravelry link).   Knitting in Passing Knitting in Ambulance with Mom. Nicole, EMT, learned to crochet a year ago and showed me all sorts of photos of the blankets and sweaters she's made! When we got home, Megg was there hanging out with Dan and Laura getting things ready for Mom to come home. She was tinking part of Miles' Christmas stocking because she messed up letter. Then Riley wanted to learn colorwork, so Megg was reading the chart and Riley was knitting. Win win! Megg joined our last Patreon Zoom. She was working on crafts for upcoming Frozen Jr which she's dir/choreo. with some help from Dan- and reworking another colorwork chart for a stocking.  Riley joined for a bit too which was fun! Nicole sent Riley an advent! We are SOOO grateful. Thanks again!   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) is Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge! Our Official Sponsor for Q3 (December) is Fangirl Fibers. Check out this Ravelry thread for details about the Colorwork challenge. Commentator Mary Klute's report- CONTAINS RAVELRY LINKS

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 286 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Knitting in Passing In My Travels KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fangirl Fibers, Love in Stitches &  Woolen Women Fibers   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Silverlining Sweater Pattern: Silverlining by Jennifer Steingass $8 pattern available on Ravelry Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Oatmeal Colorway + Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks Yarn in the Day's End Colorway Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Size B: 12 inches underarm to body. 40 inches around. I thought I was getting 18 sts/4 inches but I got 19, so it is 40 inches not 42 inches around. I was thrilled to meet Peggy from Junction Fiber Mill at Fiber Festival of New England. They shared a clip of my video on their podcast which you can find here.   Welcome to Litchfield Hat Pattern: Citrus Hat by Laura Treadway (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Handspun (Ravelry Project Page)- Into the Whirled; 2 braids Texel & BFL Tussah Silk in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway + Traveler colorway on Cheviot base to make a 3 ply yarn Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) & US 6 (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Vegas Baby Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- gray tinted rainbow with stripes of purple, blue, darker green, lime green, mustard/yellow, pink   Mom's 2024 Christmas Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in the Holly Stripe Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- Red, white and green uneven stripes.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Peace & Light Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh SW Targhee Sock in the Peace & Light Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: 6 stripes in blues/teals, 3 in creams/yellows   Dirty Crayon Box Socks Yarn: Fiber Stash Strong Toes Sock (80% SW Merino/ 20% Nylon) in the Dirty Crayon Box Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Hattie's Scrappy Helical Socks Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. Ravelry Project Page Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.   Cold, Cold Heart Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: June Pryce Fiber Arts Coventry DK in the Cold, Cold Heart Colorway Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Ravelry Project Page   From the Armchair Bel Canto by Ann Patchett. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. (read in paperback in 2008). I listened to this in prep for the Bad on Paper Podcast Book Club Episode Here One Moment by Liane Morriarty. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Watching: The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox (Netflix)- 3 parts. The Diplomat (Season 2) on Netflix- 6 episodes. Santa Tell Me (Hallmark)   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing   I shared stories of how Dan bailed me out of a knitting emergency and Riley sent me photos of her progress on her Riley Rose Cowl- a free pattern by me- available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts   In My Travels Riley & I attended Fiber Festival of New England- check out our vlog video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Met up with Michelle (chellescraps) and her friends in the morning. Great to see Lisa- who met us at Rhinebeck after following mom's Crispina Scrapbox challenge project! Find a photo of mom in that outfit in this Instagram post. It was great to see Jen, Carlos, Aurora and Zelda around lunch time,vAmy from Ross Farm & Jess from Stitched by Jessalu .     KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Tune in to see if you're the Q1 Challenge Winner (hint- the winner posted this blog post about her project) or if you won an October Participation Prize. Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) is Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge!   Commentator Update We are 10 weeks into the NFL season (and our knit a long) so I thought it would be fun to take a look at the scoreboard to see if any players had completed 10 or more projects...that is, averaging at least one project per week.  I was stunned.  Over 35 players have completed 10 or more projects!   Leading the way is player eyenowhour who has completed 27 projects--including 5 shawls and 12 baby garments!  Impressive!   But don't be dismayed if you can't imagine being as productive as eyenowhour! The great thing about the PSP is you can craft as much or as little as you want and still have a chance to win!   Events Wayland Winter Farmers' Market- Farm Fiber Days: January 19 & March 9, 2025 at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA New England Farm & Fiber Festival: February 2 from 11a-5p at the Cyclorama in Boston   Contest, News & Notes   My friend Linda is looking for donations of warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside the First Church in Woburn, MA. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!   I also talked about Socks for Sam. Check out their website. You can raise awareness for VWM by knitting a sock using #SocksForSam and tagging @Knitsocksforsam.    Life in Focus I shared some updates about Mom's new cancer treatments and recent hospital stays.   On a Happy Note I'm finding it very hard to be happy after the US election, but I try hard to look for these happy notes. As Gretchen Rubin reminded us on a recent episode of the Happier Podcast it is not selfish or unimportant to look for ways to be happy even when and especially when life feels really hard. When we are happier, we can do more to assert our values in the world and do hard things, so I started this segment with that reminder. Knitting on Hattie's socks and Sue's Instagram live on the day after the election helped me through a very difficult day. Halloween! Leaning into connecting with my people- whether that's work, friends, family, knitting community. Its small but its powerful. During Mom's first infusion, we played UNO. Mom slaughtered us! Dad got up and jokingly said he was going to smother her with a pillow before she could beat us any further and she was laughing so hard she almost offed herself! That was a bit of levity we all needed that night. We watched G&Z while their parents went out for their anniversary and again on Veteran's Day. Date night with Dan between Mom's treatments. I had a delicious pumpkin beer- Night Shift Pumpkin Piescraper Pumpkin Pie Ale. I went to see & Juliet with Megg, Terri, Liz and Riley. Then I had a sleepover at my brothers where Riley, Millie and I inadvertently had a matching PJs night.   Quote of the Week   “The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.” ― G.K. Chesterton   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 285 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Crafty Adventures KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Cniotáil Láimhe Designs on Ravelry, Area 51 Fibres, Stitched by Jessalu & Paper Daisy Creations on Ravelry.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Static Musselburgh Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website) Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Note- the pattern just got some updates About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Owen's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 2 pieces done, seamed up. Cuff is done and steamed. Snowman applique pieces finished. Sidetracked by all the mojo   Vegas Baby Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Vegas Baby Colorwork Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: cast on both socks using 2 50g cakes. Sock 2 has a heel. Sock 2 is almost ready for a heel About the colorway- gray tinted rainbow with stripes of purple, blue, darker green, lime green, mustard/yellow, pink   Mom's 2024 Christmas Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Cascade Heritage Prints in the Holly Stripe Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- Red, white and green uneven stripes. The first sock is finished. The second sock is beyond the heel.   Hattie's Scrappy Helical Socks Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers in pinks, purples and blues Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. Ravelry Project Page Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting. I measured Hattie's foot recently when she tried on this WIP. I need a 7-7.5 inch foot. Toe will be 12 rounds, which is about an inch of knitting, so Ii knit a little more than 6 inches before starting the toe. Progress: First sock finished.   Better Waverly Cardigan Pattern: Better Waverly by Taylor E Owen. $8 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry. Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Brown Heather Colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Pattern: I saw Taylor talk about this pattern in her recent YouTube Video. Progress: Still working on the raglan increases   Silverlining Sweater Pattern: Silverlining by Jennifer Steingass $8 pattern available on Ravelry Yarn: Lion Brand Fishermen's Wool in the Oatmeal Colorway + Junction Fiber Mill Making Tracks Yarn in the Day's End Colorway Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Size B (because working with fabric that has about 18 inches over 4 inches) Progress: several inches into the body (put on hold) and about half way through the first sleeve.   Brainstorming Bee Stacking Toy- Ravelry link for  $5 crochet pattern (also available for free on this website)   From the Armchair Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun by Elle Cosimano. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Plot by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Gilmore Girls: The Official Knitting Book: Knit Your Way Through Stars Hollow and Beyond by Tanis Gray- available on Amazon. Link to patterns on Ravelry. Be sure to check out: A Thousand Yellow Daisies by Beth Leath- Ravelry Pattern Link I also like the Daily News Hat by Alina Appasova- Ravelry Pattern Page.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Crafty Adventures Dan went to a Better Off Dead movie party. I helped him make pig ears to sew onto a chef's hat (he did the sewing). He also made slime (with raisins because "you like raisins') and lots of other props from the movie.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Our Official Sponsor for Q1 (October) is The Little Wolf Knits. This means you've got a challenge that can earn you more points and entry towards a cool prize. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry post. Winner will be announced in the next episode. Our Official Sponsor for Q2 (November) is Twin Mountain Handcrafts. Check this Ravelry thread for details about the Button challenge!   Events   Fiber Festival of New England- November 2 & 3- Mom, Riley and I are going on Sunday November 3rd Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival: November 9-10, 2024 in West Friendship, Maryland For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.   Contest, News & Notes Check out this article if you're an Apple user who plans to become a member of any new Patreon communities to avoid this 30% fee to Apple. You can check out my Patreon page here.   Life in Focus I gave a quick update on Mom who will be starting a new cancer treatment on 11/1/24. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers, please.   On a Happy Note Outing with Mom to get eyelash extensions & Savers. Laura's visit: Matching PJs- Cuddl Duds Coffee PJs from Kohls, My first trip to Costco! Grand Opening of Dance Legacy Arts + Hattie preview of Frozen Jr. Movies (Substance= terrible) + dinner with Megg (lovely) Ryan and Nicki visit with Mom, Dad and me after Rhinebeck & they brought me a skein of yarn! 2 massages in 1 week (24 for 2024 list) Dan and I went to vote together last Saturday morning, then I headed over to a local Sample Sale, knitting on my Silverlining sweater while I waited and listening to others local gossip. I got a ton of Christmas shopping done, then I met up with my mom's friends Patrick and Szymon in from Arizona. Mom, our friend Sharon (in from CT) and our cousin Linda (who I just found out listens- HI), met us for lunch!  Liz came over and we watched Little Women (2019 version) which I hadn't seen and was on our to watch list. (3 of 5 movies for my 24 in 2024 list). I visited my parents on Sunday. Millie and Garret were there. We took a walk to neighborhood nearby for Mom's PT for the day. Group text with friends who went to VT- about our sweaters and other adjacent things. Lots of fun and motivation. Monday night dinner with my parents, Patrick and Szymon. Early morning walk to local State park. beautiful sunrise and golden leaves around the reservoir. Need to do this more often.   Quote of the Week It doesn't matter how strong your opinions are. If you don't use your power for positive change, you are indeed part of the problem. -Coretta Scott King   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 283 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitchin with Yarn, winemakerssister, Yumi Yarns & Fibernymph Dye Works   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins LFA Helical Socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway & a Mystery Colorway (both 50g skeins: 75% SW Merino, 25% Nylon). Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on in June 2023. Finished September 5. Forgot to share in the last episode.   Frozen Shake Cozy Pattern: Ball Band with a Twist by Jennifer Lassonde. $2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts Yarn: worsted crochet cotton Hooks: F (3.75mm) & G (4.0mm) Ravelry Project Page Yarn- mystery blue cotton on a cone that was from Aunt Rachel's stash. Made for mom during September hospital stay when the dietitians started making frozen shakes to get nutrients into her.   Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin. $3 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Free version available here. Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Yarn gifted to me by my friend Heather. We became friends through the dancing school we went to. Her mother was the stage manager and my mom was the house manager for our recitals. We've all know each other since I was 12. Heather's mother Rita passed away a few years ago. When Heather heard my mom was in the hospital she dropped off a care package at the dancing school- chemo caps for Mom and yarn from her mom's stash for me!   Rita's pumpkins Pattern: Pumpkin by June Gilbank. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Free version available here. Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page 5 finished Yarn is definitely 1970s/1980s squeeky acrylic, so not my favorite to work with, but it feels great to put it to good use and to bring a bit of life to Rita's old stash.   Farmhouse Pumpkin Pattern: Farmhouse Pumpkins by More Dreams Less Life. $4.25 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Worked in the round. Does use FP & BP HDC which I learned in my crochet cables class at Staci's! Love the look of this. Worked up in an evening of TV.   Pumpkin Patch Cup Cozy Pattern: Pumpkin Patch Cup Cozy by Kylee Keller. Free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & this blog. Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Tangerine Colorway, Knit Picks Brava Worsed in the Dublin colorway (green) & mystery brown acrylic yarn from stash. Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page The pattern calls for thicker yarn and a larger hook than I had. It also calls for what's essentially a 1x1 ribbed look, but I liked the look of the ribbing from the front/back post crochets on the Farmhouse Pumpkins, so I used that pattern instead. I used the stitch count from my Ball Band with a Twist pattern (available on Ravelry | LoveCrafts).   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Farmhouse Pumpkin Pattern: Farmhouse Pumpkins by More Dreams Less Life. $4.25 crochet pattern available on Ravelry. Yarn: KnitKraft Wintuk Yarn in the Rust Colorway Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page I initially grabbed the yarn from Heather and threw some in my bag for the hospital and rest (still in its plastic Thom McCann shoe store bag lol into my craft room). I though the other skein of Wintuk was red- but when I went down there again, I realized it was rust! and the pumpkin madness continued! Cast on Saturday 9/28 watching Season 2 of the OA with Dan on Netflix.   Static Musselburgh Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website) Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Note- the pattern just got some updates About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn. Progress: 15 inches. I will plan to add one more inch and then work the decreases.   Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there's a new one coming in the Fall. Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link. Progress: I finished 9 my July squares & seamed them. I started my August squares and have 1 package waiting for me to open- the last batch.   Stranger Things 2 Socks Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party. I didn't get to join in the round until that night, but now its well underway. About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red. Progress- My first Pigskin Cast on using Snack Shack Sponsor yarn. I'm almost to heel of the first sock.   Rest Relax Recharge Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn: Plush Sock in the Rest Relax Recharge Colorway (from the March 2023 Yarnable Box) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on both cuffs so I can try to work these up quickly. They'll match some of Mom's go-to pjs. Cute acrylic Pigskin markers from Twin Mountain Handcrafts on them. Thanks ladies for sending them to me. I love them.   Brainstorming Making the pumpkins has me itching to make toys. It would be great to make some for the little kiddos for Christmas. I need to start the Christmas stocking for my cousin Colleen's little boy Owen so I have that ready for Thanksgiving. The pumpkins also have me longing to crochet some hats.   From the Armchair Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Finlay Donovan Knocks 'Em Dead by Elle Cosimano. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing Talked to several nurses and other staff about my knitting and crochet while in with Mom. One PCA learned to knit before but said she never really full understood it. I told her I'd be happy to meet her for coffee and a lesson anytime. The staff all oooh and ahhh over Mom's handknit socks. One morning when Mom was really out of it from anesthesia the day before, I was putting on her handknit socks and I had them totally crooked, heel on the side, and she was busting my chops. I told her "hey, I said I was good at knitting them, not putting them on!" and she insisted on taking a photo for me to share! Little glimpses of her coming back to her real self were great- even if it was going to be a bit more time before she was back to normal. I recently saw a notice in my town's Facebook page that the senior center is looking for yarn they can use to make things to sell at holiday's craft fairs. PSA: even if your community hasn't reached out- see if they need yarn so you can clear out anything you don't need and know it will go to good use.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Tailgate Talk Challenge- Click here for Ravelry Link Great way to get to know your team. There will be daily prompts from 9/5 through 9/16. Answer them in your Team thread in the Ravelry Group. If you answer them all, no more than 2 per day, you'll get 150 points (as long as you enter them on the Points Tally form by 10/1).  Our Official Sponsor for Q1 (October) is The Little Wolf Knits. This means you've got a challenge that can earn you more points and entry towards a cool prize. Check out the challenge details in this Ravelry post Commentator Mary Klute's report- One of the best things about the pigskin party is the community!  It is so much fun to get to know other players and the annual Tailgate Talk is a great way to do that. It looks like this year's Tailgate Talk was a great success--at the time of this report nearly 200 players had submitted for their Tailgate Talk points! But players aren't just chatting--they are also finishing projects!  So far there are 307 finished projects on the scoreboard, including 10 blitzes!  And it looks like players are really using sponsor products to rack up some extra points.  So far, finished projects have earned over 50 points on average by using sponsor products!  Symama09 is a great example of how to really maximize those sponsor points.  She earned 280 sponsor points on her recently finished gnome by using 2 proshop exclusive products, three proshop non-exclusive products, and two products from snack shack sponsors!  Her gnome is super cute too- check out the Ravelry Project Page here! Finally, don't forget to spread the word about the PSP!  You can join 14 players who have been earning points by drafting players! Tune in to hear if you're a September Participation Prize winner. I will be in touch with all winners via email.   Events Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 5 & 6, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY Maryland Alpaca and Fleece Festival: November 9-10, 2024 in West Friendship, Maryland For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.   Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!   Contest, News & Notes   My friend Linda is looking for donations of warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside the First Church in Woburn, MA. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome!   Life in Focus Update on Mom: Diane is still in the hospital after being admitted on 9/12. Attempts at the bedside to put filler into her right vocal cord to bring back her voice didn't work, so they brought her down to the OR and did the procedure there. She has so much more volume now! She doesn't notice a huge difference but we all do. We thought about 2 weeks in that she'd be going home, bags were all packed and they decided to do a last minute CT which showed spots in her lungs. We were told it wasn't cancer but it took until Thursday to do a Bronchoscopy to reveal the cause of that issue- 2 different bacterial infections. Of course at first we were told it was just 1 and she could go home on oral antibiotics. 10 minutes later the other was found and now she has to stay for at least a few days of IV antibiotics.   How to make it fun in the hospital Get to know your caregivers; find out what you have in common. It makes it more interesting if you can actually have a bond with the people you're interacting with on a regular basis. Get some new pajamas- especially if that's all you get to wear. If your family can stay over with you- get matching PJs. It's a little thing but it can make it feel a bit more special. Find ways to make the little things into bigger things. Our first matching PJ night, we wore flamingo pajamas. In advance of that, I purchased flamingo decorations at the party store and bought light up necklaces, straws & ice cubes to turn the evening into a party. The next night, we planned to have an ice cream sundae party. The unit always has ice cream on hand. Mom ordered a peach puree from the daily menu and I saved M&Ms that my cousin Jenny brought and we had an ice cream party. As it turns out, I spotted fireworks out the windows of the elevator lobby that night and was able to bring Mom over to see. Made what could have been an average night - or a depressign one because we thought she'd be home, more entertaining. Have folks send in mail and bring it to the patient! Chellescraps- Michelle, sent a bouquet of paper flowers (I believe they're from freshcutpaper)- my brother's family also got her one early on in her stay (these are great because, you may not know this but some patients cannot have fresh cut flowers- burn patients, some immunocompromised patients etc); Sewrunknit, Suzanne, sent a funny card, ElsaandEm, Emily, sent a handknit/embroidered flower pin, my cousin Jenny brought a WonderWoman balloon and ironically on the same day, a friend dropped off a Wonder Woman pillow at the house (great to use to push into Mom's side when she had pain) Ask friends and family to text photos and videos! Hattie sent Mom the cutest video of a little dance/kartwheel which was so fun.    On a Happy Note Sharpie Rollerball Pens (.5mm)- available on Amazon. The only thing that would make it better is if it was a click top, but I'm totally willing to live without the convenience. Trader Joe's Honey Hydration Day & Night Cream Duo. $7.99 (dupe for Farmacy Honey Halo, which I've never tried) One day when my SIL brought Riley, Garret and Millie in to see Mom at the hospital, Millie said she wanted to see my office, so since Mom was still at her MRI, we took a detour. Millie did a full on simulation of me at work, drinking selzter, typing on my computer etc. My parents celebrated their 47th Wedding Anniversary. Thankfully Dan had more brain cells and time than the rest of us and got Mom flowers on his way in to visit. I picked up my grandmother to bring her in for a visit with my Mom. We had a lovely visit. My cousin Sabrina came up from Tennessee with her girlfriend Maria for a visit with my Mom. It was so great catching up with them. Watching The American President. I love that movie. Mom and I had been talking about it in the hospital that day- specifically the line from Michael J. Fox (as Lewis Rothschild) "I tell any girl I'm going out with to assume that all plans are soft until she receives confirmation from me thirty minutes beforehand." Robin McCall: "And they find this romantic?" Lewis Rothschild: "Well, I say it with a great deal of charm." I was able to use our John Deere tractor/backhoe to free myself when a tree fell in our driveway and I was trapped. Dan was in Vermont and I thought I'd have to call my nephew Oisin but it didn't come to that! I scored a $300 ski bag with a charging set-up for boot warmers for $15 at a yard sale this weekend. Trader Joe's pumpkin Kringle! with Cinnamon coffee.   Quote of the Week   Strive to be whole, not perfect, for in wholeness we embrace both our strengths and our flaws, while in perfection, we lose the beauty of our true selves. -Unknown   ------   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 282 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing Crafty Adventures KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Imagined Landscapes, Fibernymph Dye Works, BellaFio Yarn Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal Hook: 10mm (N/P) 96 total hexagons + half hexies to square off the edges. Border: 1 round of sc (used nearly 1 skein of yarn), 2 rounds of hdc, 2 rounds of Dc on short sides and sc on long sides 4,499 grams used 1,728 grams of multi color yarns / around 10 skeins 2,771 grams wheat used. / around 16 skeins used Total for Stash Dash: 2,567.6 meters Berry Bliss Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Berry Bliss Colorway (May 2024 Yarnable Box) & Legacy Fiber Artz Glitzy Toes (pink mini from 2023 Advent Calendar) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on July 12 About the yarn- lemon yellow, sherbet orange and pink. I worked the first heel in a pink sparkle yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz because I have some spiral striping going on and didn't want to disrupt it. Stash Dash Update Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I competed again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here. Here's Jasmin's Spreadsheet. My 2024 Stash Dash Total: 12,088 26 projects- 16 knit, 8 crochet, 2 spinning 2 blankets, a cowl, 3 hats, a book holder, a pair of mitts, 11 pairs of socks, 1 Christmas stocking, 2 tops and 4 skeins of yarn Jasmin's total: 29,811 with the meters for a finished spinning project not yet on her spreadsheet. I always knew if she buckled down and finished one of her massive spinning projects she'd annihilate me and she finally did! One of her spinning projects was 23k! Nicely done, friend!! My hat is off to you. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Static Musselburgh Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website) Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Note- the pattern just got some updates About the yarn: blues, grays, cream and a bit of a salmony orange. Self patterning yarn. I'm loving how its working up so far. Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there's a new one coming in the Fall. Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link. Progress: I finished 9 my July squares & seamed them. I started my August squares and have 1 package waiting for me to open- the last batch. Stranger Things 2 Socks Yarn: Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Stranger Things 2 Self Striping Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on the morning of Thursday 9/5 for the Pigskin Party. I didn't get to join in the round until that night, but now its well underway. About the colorway- stripes of: orange, hot pink, purple, navy blue, medium blue and red. Progress- almost to heel of the first sock. Brainstorming Autumn Doodle Cup Cozy by Jamie Lomax ($2 knitting pattern- Ravelry) . Quick  fall colorwork project with DK yarn. From the Armchair Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah.  Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Listened to this because I want to watch the Netflix series based on this starring Sarah Chalke & Katherine Heigl Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Knitting in Passing During Marta's visit, the kids turned the living room at my parents' into a craft room. Millie knit on the hat she's making for her dad. Riley worked on crochet hexagons for our matching blankets. Roc crocheted on a crab and eventually started a giraffe amigurumi and a baby hat. Riley taught Roc to make a crochet hexagon. Even Max & Garret got in on the action and did some drawing. One of the first afternoons, we were sitting at the bar at my parents' pool. Marta was sewing up a hole in Max's shirt, I was finishing some socks and Roc was crocheting his crab. Throughout the trip, Roc (age 12) was crocheting constantly- in the car, at the table, at the park, anytime he had a few free minutes. He was incredibly adept at chatting and keeping up with his pattern working in increases and decreases. We ended up going to 6 craft stores- Plymouth Harbor Knits, Michaels, Joann, The Craft Loft, Hobby Lobby, Gather Here. Roc also got a crochet kit at Dollar Tree (the same dinoaur my niece Aila bought earlier this summer). We had a campfire at my house one night. Roc, Millie and Hattie spent most of the night crafting in my studio. We visited my house after kayaking & ice cream one afternoon- Hattie also did a bit of knitting on my Musselburgh hat. I found a few dropped stitches the next time I picked it up but that's ok. Crafty Adventures Marta, Roc and I did some resin projects while they were visiting. Roc put resin in the bottom of a small wooden crate and then we worked together on a pumpkin lazy susan. KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Playoff Prediction Contest:  Check this Ravelry Thread on 9/4 for post. Choose the NFL team you think will win the Super Bowl this year (before the thread closes on 9/19). Correct guesses will get you extra points. Tailgate Talk Challenge– Click here for Ravelry Link Great way to get to know your team. There will be daily prompts from 9/5 through 9/16. Answer them in your Team thread in the Ravelry Group. If you answer them all, no more than 2 per day, you'll get 150 points (as long as you enter them on the Points Tally form by 10/1).  Stay Tuned for our October Challenge hosted by The Little Wolf Knits. Commentator Mary: The season is off to a great start! The first Monday Night Football game was still on and there were already 18 projects in the end zone dance thread! There were lots of hats and dishcloths, of course, as these are often quick projects. But one player went above and beyond! Shellylynnknits already completed a blitz in 4 days!  She crocheted a scrap yarn basket that is super cool! https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Shellylynnknits/scrap-yarn-basket  That pattern looks like a really fun idea for using up scraps! The September chat thread is in full swing. There are lots of old friends reconnecting after some months away and new players introducing themselves and getting warm welcomes.  There is a lot of chatter about life events, plans for pigskin, and an interesting discussion about why people like knitting socks. In addition, if you are a reader or a cook, be sure to check out that Pigskin Book Talk (Ravelry Link) and Pigskin Recipe Ideas (Ravelry Link)! threads as they are quite lively too!  Don't be worried about falling behind on any of these threads…you can jump in at any time! Events Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) – Sept 12-15, 2024 Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 Lambtown, Dixon, CA – Oct 5-6, 2024 For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site. Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know! Contest, News & Notes My friend Linda is looking for donations of warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside the First Church in Woburn, MA. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome! This year they're especially looking for men's things. Life in Focus 2024 Word of the Year- Heart Thank you Emily for sending me a knit & embroidered heart pin! Its so beautiful and it made my day! Update on Mom: Mom had a couple good days while Marta was visiting. Grateful we were able to spend time together even when she couldn't leave the house. The sound of the boys laughing brought her joy. She had the catheter removed from her lung. Began having throat issues that worsened day after day. On Thursday 9/12 came for scans and chemo, but only had scans and then was admitted. She's had a whole slew of tests and so far they haven't found anything wrong which is good news, but we still need to get to the bottom of things. One bit of good news, she should be having an injection of filler into her paralyzed right vocal cord that will allow her voice to come back. Ask Me Anything Herdofhills asked about: fall project plans, books, favorite fall recipes I am looking forward to: apple picking, apple sauce, wood chopping weekend, oven baked oatmeal (here's a recipe I like to use), a Better Off Dead movie party, I've already enjoyed watching Hocus Pocus (1 & 2), pulling out the wool socks and wearing those at night, decorating, overnight oats for breakfast which I tend to eat more in fall/winter. Even better for fall is warm. Deborahjay- Love is blind UK I was watching but got sidetracked with Marta's visit. For the first time, I found myself fast forwarding through the pre-wedding stuff to hear yes/no. Liked that it seemed like folks were actually there for love and that the cast was far less dramatic than the US participants. kjkcrochet- I'd love to know a little bit more about your job I'm a Project Manager in the Nursing Dept of a big boston hospital, supporting a communication system and other projects thank involve communication, responsiveness (to patients) and technology). Tune in to hear more. On a Happy Note Max's reaction to Plymouth Rock! Teaching Roc some new crochet stitches and seeing his enthusiasm. He's definitely my new buddy. My heart almost burst when he sent me a screenshot of his Home Screen- photo of us outside the Craft Loft in Cambridge. Handpicked sunflowers from my friend Eileen's garden. Laser tag Going on a Duck Tour 2 whole weeks with Marta. We haven't been together that long since 1998! And all of the funny moments and inside jokes that come from it. Connections at work making tough days a little easier. Quote of the Week Summer ends, and Autumn comes, and he who would have it otherwise would have high tide always and a full moon every night. ~ Hal Borland —— Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out myDown Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 281 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors:   Twin Mountain Handcrafts Irocknits Designs Thelittlewolfknits Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Declan's 70s Socks Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Seventies Stripes Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Finished August 3rd Total for Stash Dash: 278.2 meters (304.2 yards)   Log Cabin Mitts Pattern: Log Cabin Mitts by Karen Templar (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on this site) Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) 9 sections of garter stitch log cabin. I decided to knit the 2 squares concurrently so I'd remember which yarns I used for each section, not reading ahead enough to know that you were supposed to work them slightly differently to make matching mitts, but that doesn't bother me at all, so I just went with it and mine are opposites. I like that I can see all of the colors on the top or bottoms of my hands.  60g fingering weight yarn (held double) 253.8 meters for Stash Dash   Rafa's Hat Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Cielo y Tierra colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) Pattern: Rafa's Hat by Joji Locatelli (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page: Started July 9. Finished August 7th. Total for Stash Dash: 115.2 meters   Laura's London Socks Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Base in the Salt colorway (cream with blips of neons & gray) & a 50g Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Micro Skein in a Mystery Colorway (gray) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page Bought the Qing Fibres Yarn in London in November 2022 with Laura. She chose this skein from my stash in 2023 not realizing we bought it when we were together. Total for Stash Dash: 272 meters   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal Hook: 10mm (N/P) 2 rounds of color- 1 round of wheat or oatmeal 30 done in July. 47 done by August 7th. Had to order more yarn (twice) and ended up with 96 hexagons. The blanket is nearly the size of a full sized comforter.  Last summer's hexi blanket was fingering held double- 60x84 inches and took about 300 hexis which were 4 rounds each (these have only 3). (Check out the Ravelry Project Page here)   Berry Bliss Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Berry Bliss Colorway (May 2024 Yarnable Box) & Legacy Fiber Artz Glitzy Toes (pink mini from 2023 Advent Calendar) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I've finished the heel on the second sock.   LFA Helical Socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Portal Colorway & a Mystery Colorway (both 50g skeins: 75% SW Merino, 25% Nylon). Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on in June 2023. Finished the first sock and am nearly to the heel on the second sock. I'm helical striping the LFA yarn and used leftover Knit Picks Felici Self Striping Yarn (purple, blue and a pumpkin orange) for the heel and toes. You can't tell its striped at all. Looks like 1 cohesive colorway. Progress: first sock finished, nearly to the heel on the second sock.   Brainstorming I'm debating starting my first Woolens and Nosh advent sock early since December is hectic I never get as far as I'd like. I thought I could make a sweater from me with the leftovers of Mom's Rhinebeck Sweater yarn, but it doesn't look like I'll have enough yarn, so that project is on hold. Perhaps I'll look for more yarn to add to it and save it for that. Dan's Litchfield Hat with Welcome to Litchfield Handspun (Ravelry Project Page) I'm planning to knit socks for my friend Sheri. My niece Aila asked for socks for Christmas. She'd like these Daisy Socks- pattern on Ravelry.   From the Armchair The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. No One Tells You This by Glynnis Macnicol. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. All Fours by Miranda July. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Bitter Blood: A True Story of Southern Family Pride, Madness and Multiple Murder by Jerry Bledsoe. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing Last Saturday, Oisin came here to Work with Dan. When Megg, Tom and Hattie came to pick him up they stayed for a chat. Hattie got out the ponies and Barbies, then she abandoned that to knit on my Berry Lemonade socks with me. She did fantastic after a quick reminder of the stitches and even took my feedback about putting her left index finger on the second stitch on the needle to prevent that from falling off while slipping the stitch she just worked, off the left needle. Hattie asked to start her own pair of socks (ambitious) and tried on scrappy helical socks I started in November (Ravelry Project Page) She tried on the scrappy helical socks I started in November and they fit. I need about 1.5 inches before toe on the first sock, so I should pick those back up soon.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 #DCSPigskinParty24 Event Dates: Thursday September 5, 2024- Monday February 10, 2025 Find everything you need in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Official Rules Registration Form  (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Find out what Team you're on (Team Chats will open 9/1/24) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Being updated regularly so keep checking back. Coupon Codes are listed in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com   A special THANK YOU to our team Umpire- Wendy- socalknitgirl Commissioners Emily- (ElsaandEm)- Llama Conference Alicia (almariecraft)- Alpaca Conference Nicole (KnitterNicole)- Sheep Conference Commentator- Mary (Maryklute)   Playoff Prediction Contest:  Check the Ravelry Group on 9/4 for post. Choose the NFL team you think will win the Super Bowl this year (before the thread closes on 9/19). Correct guesses will get you extra points. Tailgate Talk Challenge- Click here for Ravelry Link Great way to get to know your team. There will be daily prompts from 9/5 through 9/16. Answer them in your Team thread in the Ravelry Group. If you answer them all, no more than 2 per day, you'll get 150 points (as long as you enter them on the Points Tally form by 10/1).  This year, we'll have 4 primary challenges during the full months of the event- Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan. Stay tuned for those details. The sponsors are: October: Thelittlewolfknits November: Twin Mountain Handcrafts December: Fangirl Fibers January: Fibernymph Dye Works   Other current & upcoming events: Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024. Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself. Discord link: knit girllls discord Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here. Here's Jasmin's Spreadsheet.   I have 9,273 meters as of August 25. Jasmin is on the board with 5,910 meters Sending much love to Jasmin & Gigi after hearing about Gigi's recent stroke.    Events Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) - Sept 12-15, 2024 Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.   Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!   Life in Focus   Mom Update: After Whole Brain Radiation, Mom went right into 5 targeted radiation treatments to help reduce the size of the cancer in a lymph node that was pressing on nerves that then get in the way of her right vocal cord. As of about mid-July, she didn't have any voice, and they hoped to correct that. On her last day of that radiation, she also had a PleureX cathetered installed in her right lung to allow regular at-home drainage to keep that pressure off her lung. The day after that- Dad and I tested positive for Covid and by Monday Mom had too. Thankfully Dad and I had only mild symptoms and Mom had none- which was a blessing because the insertion of that port left her riddled with pain for days. Now she's coming out of that but starting a new chemo. We're hopeful that this will take away some of her pain and its already meant she doesn't need her lung drained as frequently. Hoping September will be a better month for her than the last couple.   Ask Me Anything   NDoyle asks: What has been your favorite item you've made this year and why? Millie's Squishmallow Sheltie Dog that I crocheted without a pattern- Ravelry Project Page Emotional Support Chicken- Ravelry Project Page Marilynknits- What gauge do you knit your socks at? 8-8.5 sts per inch. 56 sts on US 1.5 needles= 6.5 to 7 inch circumference   On a Happy Note I am very relieved that Covid was mild for us, especially for my Mom. Also very grateful that my brother who was on vacation in Virginia just as we came down with Covid, ended up having a bicycle accident that left him with bruises all over and a broken rib- but is going to be OK. I made everyone promise we'd all stay out of the hospital for one full week! Visits with my cousin Jenny and her daughter Vera who often come over to see my Mom. Weekend pool time, especially with our youngest niece and nephew who are absolute fishies! My dear friend Nathan (only a couple years older than me) had a successful heart and kidney transplant only 1 day apart from each other but is recovering well. Our family all bought t-shirts and made donations to help his family and got a great photo to send him poolside one afternoon! My Mom wanted to get eyelash extensions so she, my cousin Jenny and I all went and it was a lovely experience. Dan and I picked up my grandmother and we all went to my cousin Nancy's Surprise 60th birthday. Mom and Gram both had a great day that. Beautiful sunny poolday with all the kiddos swimming, I caught up with many of my cousins who I don't get to see all the time, learned there's another new baby coming in January and enjoyed fresh pizza from a woodfired oven. We also sang to my grandmother. From there, we headed to Terri's Graduation Party. She runs the dancing school where I met Kris & Megg, two of my best friends who have 5 of our niblings. Dan's younger brother Dave played in the band, the kids all played together. We got to see Terri's brother who came up from FL, and Conor, Carly and baby Miles after they were in Nantucket for a couple weeks. Dinner & Les Mis with Kris, Aila and Megg. At Mom's chemo treatment, we got to see my friend Waveney who was my officemate in my first job at the hospital 22 years ago and her son, Tighe, checked us in at the Infusion Clinic. As soon as I said hello, his whole face lit up with a smile and he came around and immediately hugged us all. It was pure joy! He'll be back off to college soon. We hosted a 90th birthday party for my grandmother at The Tavern in her assisted living facility. I put together all sorts of cool photo decorations & used some of her old picture frames for the tables and guests could take them as favors. Dan DJed, and my Dad, our friend Sharon & cousin Susan prepared the food) and the kiddos all acted as bartenders. Hattie even went around and took photos. All of the joy and hope coming out of Democratic party with coverage of the DNC. It feels great to have a candidate I'm truly joyful about supporting. A quieter weekend- getting ready for my friend Marta to arrive from Barcelona (if I'm a bit MIA that's why)   Quote of the Week One evening in August, you have an errand outdoors, and all of a sudden, it's pitch-black. It is still summer, but the summer is no longer alive.   ~ Tove Jansson   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 280 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Crafty Adventures Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins     Silver Spoon Socks Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland. Started in May 2023. Finished on June 28, 2024 Total for Stash Dash: 262 meters   Baby James' Cozy Clusters Blanket Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Slush Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01110 [Navy] for the border Hook: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Bobble Border instructions from this blog Finished size- 30.5 inches wide by 38.8 inches tall (not including the bobbles) Finished on July 2 Total for Stash Dash: 1,010 meters (833 meters Caron Cakes [2.25 skeins] - 178 meters Loops & Threads- less than 1 skein)   Trish's New Orleans Socks Yarn- Cat Tails Yarn in the Chartreux Base (75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Silver Stellina) in the Christmas Bonfires Colorway (part of the Down in New Orleans Collection) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Trish purchased in New Orleans in 2024 (exclusive colorway for the Quarter Stitch). $34. Finished on July 3 Total for Stash Dash: 259 meters   American Ewe Turn a Square Hat Yarn: American Ewe Worsted Tweed in the Terrace Mountain Colorway Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($5 pattern available on Ravelry & Brooklyn Tweed website) Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: 3 ply Merino/Rambouillet Shaniko Wool (89%) with 6% acrylic and 5% rayon flecks. The colorway is a natural with brownish tweedy bits. I purchased the yarn for $15 at Adventures in Knitting in Harwich, MA on the way to visit friends who were staying in Wellfleet. They had a cool display of "used needles" for $4 each. I bought bamboo US. Modifications: I use worsted weight yarn and knit the smallest size, omitting the increases after the ribbing. I knit 6 inches before the crown decreases. Total for Stash Dash: 99.8 meters (109.2 yards), 51 grams   Portland Socks Yarn: Urth Yarns Uneek Fingering in Colorway 3024 Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: self striping yarn- cornflower blue, dusty orange, yellowy green, peach, magenta and purple. I purchased the yarn at Knit Wit Yarn Shop in Portland, Maine. You can purchase the same yarn online from them. I held a strand of navy blue nylon thread along with yarn for the heel flap and gusset to give more strength to the heel. I used the Lemonwood Mini Minder (also purchased at Knit Wit) and knit the vast majority of this pair of socks in 2 days walking around Portland, visiting breweries and hanging out with friends. You can see a video I made of this project on Instagram. Total for Stash Dash: 254.7 meters   Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project Fiber: I purchased two 4oz braid of fiber from Into the Whirled in the Welcome to Litchfield colorway (1 braid Texel & 1 braid BFL Tussah Silk) along with 1 gray  (The Traveler on Cheviot base) braid to ply them together. Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Ravelry Project Page I didn't fully spin the gray Traveler colorway braid. Finished Project- 3 braids of 3 ply yarn: 184g= 252.2 meters (275.9 yards) ~Aran weight Total for Stash Dash= 252.2 meters x 4= 1,008.8 meters   Book Holder Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Roving Stripes in Daisy & 1 other mystery colorway (lost the ball band), Premier Yarns Parfait Chunky (mustard) & Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Worsted Ravelry Project Page Hook: 9.0 mm (M/N) I took inspiration from this pattern on Ravelry. (Boho Book Nook crochet pattern- but I was using MUCH chunkier yarn and I didn't want to use the same textured stitches) I chained 21 sts and worked with 20 hdcs across each row- working in the third loop after the first row. I wasn't going to have enough of the Lion Brand Roving to make the whole thing, so I held the Wool of the Andes double for the part that would be covered. I worked a single crochet around the edges, and then sewed the front to back in just 1 spot on either side. I used a chain for the loop to tack it up on the wall. Total for Stash Dash: 128.1 meters   Declan's Adrift Socks Yarn: Patons Kroy Stripes in the Adrift colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- short stripes (about 3 rounds each) with 3 shades of blue- navy, denim and cornflower plus orange and brown. Total for Stash Dash: 278.2 meters   Deschain Pattern Deschain by Leila Raven Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm) Yarn. Rowan Creative Linen. Colorway 00624-   Gray. Worsted weight 50% Linen / Flax, 50% Cotton. 200 meters / 100 grams. Bought 4 skeins. Used a little more than 2 Size: Smallest (54 1/4 in bust) Calls for 16-22" positive ease. I should have around 19" Ravelry Project Page Originally finished July 10, 2021. I ripped out in 2024 because the back was far too short. I ripped out the sleeves (tossed) and unseamed the back and front. The instructions call for the back to be 12 inches but the front falls about 17 inches from collarbone to the bottom hem. I knit about 14 inches on the back and then worked a few sets of German Short Rows before the bottom hem instructions. I tried a few options for sleeves and then decided I"d just sew up the ends in a way to tuck/hem the ends under and I love that. In the end I made the body longer and the sleeves shorter Total for Stash Dash: 424.0 meters (463.7 yards), 212 grams   First Point of Libra Cowl Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn Ravelry Project Page Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that's now frogged. I started in October 2022. My November 2022 notes say- I'm losing mojo on this and I don't think it has to do w/ the pattern or my yarn. I like it... but its not getting finished before my trip to the UK so I will need to find other wooly accessories to bring with me. I picked up again July 2024 and it flew off the needles! Modifications: In Section 4, I skipped adding color 4 & 5 (1-3 only). Skipped Section 5. Finished size: 21 inches around. 15 inches tall. Total for Stash Dash: 406 meters   Vera's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Total for Stash Dash: 456.5 meters   8,353 meters for Stash Dash Over 4,500 meters added since the last episode!   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wool Ease Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Yarn: Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick. Centers in colorways- Fern, Coney Island, Seaglass, Slate. Borders- Wheat & Oatmeal Hook: 10mm (N/P) Notes: started in April 2022. I never talked about it on the podcast.  Inspired by an instagram post from Lion Brand. This WIP has been taking up a ton of space in my craft room ever since. When the pump in my dehumidifer went and we had to move some things to get at it, I decided I had to get this WIP done. 2 rounds of color- 1 round of wheat or oatmeal 18 were done. 30 finished now   Berry Bliss Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock (75% SW Merino/25% Nylon) in the Berry Bliss Colorway (May 2024 Yarnable Box) & Legacy Fiber Artz Glitzy Toes (pink mini from 2023 Advent Calendar) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn- lemon yellow, sherbet orange and pink. I worked the first heel in a pink sparkle yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz because I have some spiral striping going on and didn't want to disrupt it. Progress: I've finished the heel on the first sock.   Rafa's Hat Yarn: Malabrigo Rios in the Cielo y Tierra colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) Pattern: Rafa's Hat by Joji Locatelli (free knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page: About the yarn: blues/tans that is almost striping at my gauge. The hat is a 1x1 rib that has a cool purl ridge detail. Progress: I've worked two repeats of the pattern   Cold Goat Farm Spinning Fiber: Cold Goat Farm Batt- I believe its Merino/Mohair but there are no details on the business card in my bag. I think I purchased it at Rhinebeck 2023. Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Ravelry Project Page   Brainstorming Connections socks! Have you heard about them? You take your Daily NY Times Game- Connections Results and put them into colorwork socks. Suzanne told me about them- and recently saw and loved Wendy's! Here's a link to Wendy's Connection Socks Ravelry Project Page.   From the Armchair Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. I'll Just Be Five More Minutes (and other tales from my ADHD brain) by Emily Farris. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Feed by M.T. Anderson. Bookshop Affiliate Link (not available). Amazon Affiliate Link. Briefly Perfectly Human by Alua Arthur. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Crafty Adventures I found a small hole in my Mabel Style cross body sling bag and decided to use embroidery floss for a better hold and to add a bit of visible mending color. I received great customer service when I reached out to them! I'm in the midst of a massive studio clean out. It started w/ issues with my dehumidifier and it's really spiraled from there. I'm excited to see how it all comes back together.   Knitting in Passing   Aila FaceTimed me from a friend's house after buying a crochet dinosaur kit at the dollar store. The next day after pool day and dinner we practiced chain and single crochet.   In My Travels Dan and I spent a long weekend in Portland, Maine to celebrate our 20th Anniversary. I was able to go up a night early to attend the knit night at Rising Tide Brewery. I loved meeting Heather from Rising Tide and Jenn & her husband Chuck from Knit Wit. Friday morning, I visited Knit Wit Yarn Shop's new location and then walked around. Dan, Dana and Sheri arrived and we met at Duck Fat for lunch before showing them around to some of our favorite breweries. Saturday we visited local shops and more breweries before going to see comedian Kathleen Madigan. Sunday, I did some shopping while Dan watched soccer then we enjoyed some drinks together and ended up back at Rising Tide where there was a 6p Burlesque show so Dan got us tickets. Really fun end to an awesome weekend.   KAL News Pigskin Party '24 will kick off in the fall (specific date TBD). We're looking for Sponsors for this season. Interested or know someone who is? Sign up for my email newsletter and click the box saying you're potentially interested in sponsoring events and you'll get first dibs on spots. And/or email me for details!   Other current & upcoming events: Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024. Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself. Discord link: knit girllls discord Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here     Events Flock Fiber Festival- August 9-11 in Seattle, WA FIber Revival: August 10 in Newbury, MA Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, (CA and NV) - Sept 12-15, 2024 Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul (MA) September 14-17, 2024 Lambtown, Dixon, CA - Oct 5-6, 2024 For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.   Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!   Life in Focus   Tune in for a health Update on BostonJensMom   On a Happy Note Dan and I took vacation the first week of July. Monday after Portland we just chilled. Tuesday I took Mom for whole brain radiation, then to visit my grandmother (her mother) and out for lunch. Wednesday/Thursday we visited friends renting a house in Wellfleet (Cape Cod) and Thursday/Friday we visited friends in Falmouth. Friday morning we picked up Riley from Camp and brought her to our house before she and I headed to Hornstra to get ice cream for lunch (because that's what vacation is for!) and over to my parents to the pool for the day. Monday 7/8- I met up with my friend Megg to do a 5+ mile beach walk before she headed out to Ireland for the month. Wed 7/10  Mom and I stayed in Boston to save her the back & forth daily for treatment. We met her friend Jacky for lunch. I went back to work in the afternoon. After work, we cooled off in the hotel pool and then had dinner, played Uno and bar trivia at The Hill. We stunk but it was fun! Sunday July 14th pool day at my parents. Jenna, Dave, Gabriella and Zach came over. Within a few hours they were both jumping off the diving board! July 17-18th Mom and I stayed in Boston again after her Radiation treatment. We hit the pool and fared slightly better at trivia but it was hard to be out as long. Mom's energy was much lower, she was coughing more and couldn't speak above a whisper. July 21st we had a pool day at my parents. Jeff, Millie and Garret, Jenna, and the 2 kiddos, Kris, Will, Aila and Matt. We celebrated Will's 17th birthday. Mom's hair had started falling out and the blank spots at the back of her head looked like a butterfly! Mom told us to go find some Sharpies and color it in! It was a hard day for her and by extension us, but this added a bit of fun and whimsy to it! Millie even attached little plastic gems to parts of the butterfly. After the "temporary tattooing" we shaved off the rest of her hair to help w/ the shedding. July 23rd- Mom's last day of Whole Brain Radiation! Coming home to a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Dan. Getting 2 massages this month after missing my scheduled on in June for our Portland trip! I always feel like I need it but I've been going up on weights at the gym and my upper body was screaming!   Quote of the Week “I know nothing in the world that has as much power as a word. Sometimes I write one, and I look at it, until it begins to shine.” -Emily Dickinson   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 279 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu Announcement- I'll be putting out only 1 episode per month through the summer to keep things manageable. Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Julia's Cozy Clusters Blanket Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Hibiscus Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Orange for the border) Hooks: H (5.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Bobble Border instructions came from this blog Caron Cakes – 1054.6 meters Loops & Threads – 130.5 meters Meters for Stash Dash- 1,185.10 My Little Unicorn Socks Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one. Meters for Stash Dash: 286.3 4 Bowl Savers for Mom Pattern: None Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up in the Seaglass colorway Hook: 5.0 mm (H) Ravelry Project Page I crocheted 2 circles and 2 hexagons for Mom to put between her Pyrex bowls. Meters for Stash Dash: 119 Riley's 16th Birthday Flower Top Pattern:  Riley found in this TikTok video Hook: G (4.0 mm) Yarn: Caron Skinny Cakes in the Grape Raisin UVA colorway (purchased 3) Ravelry Project Page YouTube Video Linked instructions Meters for Stash Dash: 872.4 (1.2 skeins) I am calling it done but I need Riley to try it on and may need to adjust the neck. Children of Time 2 Ply Yarn Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot in the Children of Time colorway Ravelry Project Page About: I originally spun this last summer and plied 1 ply of Into the Whirled with 2 plies of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes fiber (Ravelry Project Page here). I had two bobbins of leftovers and I needed the bobbins so I plied those up. The result was much more yarn than I expected. Total= 116 Meters 2 ply: which means things went through the oriface of the wheel 3 times=  Stash Dash Meters- 116.5 x3= 349.5 Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page Meters for Stash Dash: 285.8 On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield Ravelry Project Page Progress: finished the second braid- 4 oz in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway in 70/30 BFL/Tussah Silk Up next: spinning 3rd braid- Into the Whirled- The Traveler colorway (medium gray). 4 oz Cheviot Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there's a new one coming in the Fall. Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link. The patterns for this kit will be the Northeasterly Blanket by Melissa Alexander-Loomis (knit version) and the Northeasterly blanket by Katy Stevens (crochet version).  Progress: I finished 9 my May squares but haven't seamed them yet. Vera's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Stocking and cuff are finished and ironed. I crocheted the three circles for the snowman, made the scarf and earmuffs and ironed those too. I still need to crochet a carrot nose, sew on the snowman and add the name to the cuff. Nearly done! Trish's New Orleans Socks Yarn- Cat Tails Yarn in the Chartreux Base (75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Silver Stellina) in the Christmas Bonfires Colorway (part of the Down in New Orleans Collection) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Trish purchased in New Orleans in 2024 (exclusive colorway for the Quarter Stitch). $34. Progress: Friday night we hung out with friends and I finished the leg of the second sock, and turned the heel on a rainy Saturday. Baby James' Cozy Clusters Blanket Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Slush Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Colorway 01110 [Navy] for the border) Hook: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Nearly done w/ the second Caron cake. Bobble Border instructions from this blog Silver Spoon Socks Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland. Started in May 2023 Progress: nearly to the toe on the second sock. Brainstorming Socks for Dan Christmas stocking for my cousin Colleen's son, Owen At least another pair of socks. I really want to crochet a summer top but I can't find anything that's really exciting me… Ideas welcome! From the Armchair The Nix by Nathan Hill. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Such a Bad Influence by Olivia Muenter. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. One Last Summer by Kate Spencer. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan. Bookshop Affiliate Link.Amazon Affiliate Link. Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto. Bookshop Affiliate Link.Amazon Affiliate Link. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Knitting in Passing I was crocheting on Riley's top on the T. Man told me about how he crocheted as a kid in Cape Verde and Holland. He had nothing to do. No tv. Needed something to entertain himself so he taught himself. Sister knew but couldn't teach him.  It wasn't a normal thing for boys in holland. Or girls as far as he knew and they didn't teach it in school but he had fond memories of it. Great chat learning about his travels and his work as a union carpenter now. KAL News Pigskin Party '24 will kick off in the fall (specific date TBD). I will be sending out an email to sponsors in the next 2-3 weeks asking folks to sign up. Interested or know someone who is? Sign up for my email newsletter and click the box saying you're potentially interested in sponsoring events and you'll get first dibs on spots. Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast Tour de Fleece- check out this Ravelry Group for official details. Saturday, June 29, 2024 through Sunday, July 21, 2024. Rest Days: Monday, July 8 and Monday, July 15. There are challenge days, Teams and prizes. Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 – September 2 Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024. Here's a chatter thread for stash dash 2024! Stash Dash will run from May 24th-the end of August. Craft all the things and see how your FO pile grows! This is a competition only against yourself. Discord link: knit girllls discord Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here My total as of this episode: 3,765.2 meters Events Flock Fiber Festival– August 9-11 in Seattle, WA FIber Revival: August 10 in Newbury, MA Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site. Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know! Life in Focus 24 for 2024 list #1-Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy (1 and the guy was GREAT) #4- Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) 31 as of June 24 #7-Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site. Going to Portland- maybe will look there. Health Update– BostonJensMom begins whole brain radiation on July 1. Every weekday (except July 4) through July 22. Keep those prayers and good vibes coming. We recorded a very long health update video that will go up in 2 parts on the YouTube Channel. It takes a bit of time to edit because I like to add in photos/videos of the fun life stuff we chat about to make it more fun. Keep an eye out for that if you want the full story of my parents car accident and April and everything that's happened since our last recording in February. Health Update Video Part 1 Health Update Video Part 2 On a Happy Note Mom, Megg, Kris and I went to see Come From Away in Boston I helped Dan build a shed for his brother and then relaxed in the pool at my parents once we were done (and good and sweaty). I pressure washed the house and the deck- it's currently covered in pollen but at least I got the worst of it off. It's such a satisfying chore! Mom and I went to Aila's voice recital and out for drinks after. I brought my grandmother to my cousin Jenny's daughter Vera's Baptism Party. Beautiful day! Celebrated my birthday at a local Irish Pub for live Irish music. Dan treated us all for dinner. My parents, Megg, Tom (who is from Ireland) and their friend David (visiting from Ireland), Megg's Mom Terri, Trish and Liz. Very fun, silly night as usual. Megg and I weren't doing gifts this year because of our Opera House season tickets but I made her socks in March and she brought me a beautiful plant! We all went back to Megg and Tom's after which was fun because I got to see Eme, Oisin and Hattie too. The boys made lobster for David who hadn't tried New England Lobster before. After the most stressful and hellish week at work I've had in 22 years, I convinced the directors in charge of my Nurse Call Integration project that it was too unstable and had to be shut down so while it was awful, it was done in little more than 3 days. Thankfully, none of the blame was on me (didn't make it feel that much better). Vendor was woefully unprepared and mismanaged things. On that Friday, my boss told me to leave early. I met up with Dan for lunch at The Galley in Scituate. Sitting in the window/door until a huge storm blew in and they had to close it up. June 11th- my cousin Colleen had her baby boy- Owen (not on my birthday but soo close) June 12th- my nephew Garret graduated from 8th Grade and my Mom (and Dad) were there for it! June 14th- Conor and Carly welcomed their baby boy Miles. I did the stage decorations and played house manager in the last ever Terri's School of Dance recital. We had a party at Kris' house after. Father's Day Pool Party- Dan taught Garret and his friend Terry how to properly shuck a lobster. We played games and swam a little in the pool. My cousin Gayle flew in from FL and joined us for the recital and Father's Day fun. I had Monday off and headed over to Mom and Dad's. Jenny and Vera were there, and Millie never left. We swam, played Tock, and went to Heidi's for an ice cream. On Juneteenth- I hit the gym then took Millie and Riley to get their nails done, then took Gayle to Athleta, swam a bit. Dan, Jeff and Melissa came over and we all had dinner together by the pool. Quote of the Week As soon as I have a deadline, I work much better. Time unbounded is hard to handle. –May Sarton —— Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out myDown Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 278 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Be Fearless Socks Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Be FearLESS Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: this self striping colorway is a bright rainbow colorway that's meant to mimic the logo for our FearLESS Living Fund Meters for Stash Dash: 290.4 meters   Raven Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn in the Raven Colorway from the Yarnable Box. Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the Yarn: Speckled colorway with a cream base. Green, gray/black and hot pink colors speckled in. Meters for Stash Dash: 256 meters   Beer Hat Pattern: Beer Stein Hat by Lindsay Hoffman (free crochet hat available on this blog) Yarn: Lion Brand Homespun Yarn- Hepplewhite & Red Heart Super Saver- Gold Hook: G: 4.25 mm (started with an H but thought the gauge was too large. Other Materials: 3 Pipe Cleaners Ravelry Project Page Dan's friend Chris' wife asked for this for her husband (he excitedly agreed). He's a brewer and manager at one of our local breweries, Vitamin Sea, so maybe he'll sport it to work. Meters for Stash Dash: 120.7   Total for Stash Dash meters for this episode: 667.1 meters   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Vera's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes in Red, Everglade Heather and White Hook: F (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Riley's 16th Birthday Flower Top Pattern:  Riley found in this TikTok video Hook: G (4.0 mm) Yarn: Caron Skinny Cakes in the Grape Raisin UVA colorway (purchased 3) Ravelry Project Page YouTube Video Linked instructions   Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist This subscription is not available to new subscribers but there's a new one coming in the Fall. Blanket Pre-Orders for the Murder She Knit club are available now! Please consider using my Affiliate Link. The patterns for this kit will be the Northeasterly Blanket by Melissa Alexander-Loomis (knit version) and the Northeasterly blanket by Katy Stevens (crochet version).  Progress: I finished 5 (of 9) my May squares.   Static Musselburgh Pattern: Musselburgh Hat by Ysolda Teague (7 GBP Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & on Ysolda's website) Yarn: Knit Picks Static Fingering Weight Yarn in the Peppercorn colorway Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) & US 2.5 (3.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   My Little Unicorn Socks Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one. Progress: Started in July of 2023. Past the cuff of the second sock when I picked them up. I knit the leg and heel over Memorial Day Weekend 2024.   Trish's New Orleans Socks Yarn- Cat Tails Yarn in the Chartreux Base (75% Superwash Merino, 15% Nylon, 10% Silver Stellina) in the Christmas Bonfires Colorway (part of the Down in New Orleans Collection) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Trish purchased in New Orleans in 2024 (exclusive colorway for the Quarter Stitch). $34. Progress: at the heel of the first sock   Julia's Cozy Clusters Blanket Pattern: Cozy Clusters Baby Blanket by Leelee Knits (free & paid options available on the LeeLeeKnits website) Yarn: Caron Cinnamon Swirl Cakes in the Hibiscus Colorway (purchased 3). 1 skein of Loops & Threads Impeccable in Orange for the border) Hooks: H (5.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page I initially bought 2 skeins based on the size of a similar blanket I made with this pattern, but after coming to the end of the first skein I knew it wouldn't be large enough. I probably should have/could have used an I hook. 2 row repeat that is easy to memorize. Almost done with the 3rd skein. Plan to finish the first week of June.   Brainstorming Took a chair off the side of the road- the arms are ripped at the front but the rest looks great, so I am going to crochet covers for the arms!   From the Armchair   One Last Stop by Casey McQuiston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Wellness by Nathan Hill. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   In My Travels Aila and I drove out to Great Barrington for Eme's Associate Degree graduation ceremony. We enjoyed dinner at Steam and an ice cream afterwards. In taking Eme to pick up their pottery pieces for the year to bring home, I got to see and hear all about it! At the graduation ceremony the next day, I was chatting for awhile only to look up when asked what I was knitting to see Crispina French, who I know from her vending at Rhinebeck! Talk about a small world!   KAL News Summer Bingo with Monica & Cortney of the Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast Tour de Fleece- check out this Ravelry Group for official details. Saturday, June 29, 2024 through Sunday, July 21, 2024. Rest Days: Monday, July 8 and Monday, July 15. There are challenge days, Teams and prizes. Colors of Fall with the Yarniacs Podcast Group. June 20- September 22 Summer Spin In with the Two Ewes Fiber Adventures Podcast Group- May 27 - September 2 WIP Bingo with Cerulean Orchid- June 1-30th. (several West Coast US LYSs participating but you can join online too) Summer Sock Camp with the Crazy Sock Lady The Knit Girllls are hosting their annual Stash Dash Event from May 24-August 31,2024. Discord link: knit girllls discord Jasmin (of the Knitmore Girls Podcast) & I are competing again this year. Check out my Stash Dash Spreadsheet here   Events Flock Fiber Festival- August 9-11 in Seattle, WA Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY (GREEN-Witch) Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site.   Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know!   Life in Focus I give a quick update on my word of the year HEART, which I've been seeing hearts in/on the trees lately! I share a quick goals update and a health update about my parents.   On a Happy Note Dan and I celebrated our 20th Anniversary on May 22nd- the 143rd day of the year (which happened in 2024 only because its a Leap Year- usually Day 143 is May 23rd). Minot's Light Lighthouse's light signal, a 1-4-3 flashing cycle adopted in 1894, is locally referred to as "I LOVE YOU" (1-4-3 being the number of letters in that phrase), and it is often cited as such by romantic couples within its range. Friday of Memorial Day Weekend we went out for dinner (to use up a gift card- which we still had $1 left on when we left) and to a friends' house for a fire. Saturday & Sunday pool days My niece Riley got her learner's permit and drove us home from the grocery store! Teddy and the snorkel (so cute) Baby Vera's first swim The long weekend allowed me the extra day off to clean out our pantry and my closet. I switched out my winter clothes for summer ones, took donations to Savers and did shopping and meal prep for the week. It felt great. Deer and turtles abound!   Quote of the Week Writer and designer Edith Wharton, the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, on what causes old age: "The producer of old age is habit: the deathly process of doing the same thing in the same way at the same hour day after day, first from carelessness, then from inclination, at last from cowardice or inertia. Habit is necessary; but it is the habit of having careless habits, of turning a trail into a rut, that must be incessantly fought against if one is to remain alive... one can remain alive long past the usual date of disintegration if one is unafraid of change, insatiable in intellectual curiosity, interested in big things, and happy in small ways." Source: A Backward Glance (lightly edited for clarity)   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.          

Chris, Sunil and Producer James are dropping a special bonus episode to celebrate the highly successful launch of Rural Concerns! Thanks for listening and we'll see y'all down The Creamery, yeah?

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 275 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu & The Yarn Sellar Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Thumper Hat Yarn: Berrocco Ultra Alpaca in the Light Grey colorway Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) & US 8 (5.0 mm) Pattern: Thumper Hat by Jennifer Lassonde- $5 Knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts The Thumper Hat is a worsted weight slouchy hat with a diamond lace pattern. For the size Large/XL, I used 66g of yarn (around 144 yards/132 meters) LFA Mystery Shortie Socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About 12 rounds of ribbing. 1 round of knitting before starting the heel I used 35 grams of yarn. Hair bow Pattern: Cottage Hair Accessories (Bow Tie) by Wool & Pine. $5 pattern available on Ravelry or on the Wool & Pine website) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Glitz Toes- multicolor mini skein from Christmas 2023 Advent Calendar. Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Pattern was a part of my May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box package. Watch my unboxing video here. If you're thinking of joining, please purchase using my Affiliate Link. It won't cost you any extra. I will make a small commission. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Modern Classic Baby Blanket Pattern: Modern Classic Baby Blanket by Kristin Holloway ($8 crochet pattern available on Ravelry: free version w/ ads available on this website) Hook: I (5.5) Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins) Size: Crib Blanket: 36 x 50” The blanket is worked in 2 halves that you seam together at the center to make it symmetrical. The pattern features some crochet cables. Woolen Camelot socks Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers Sock (80/20 SW Merino/Nylon) in the Woolen Camelot colorway from the May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box. Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Check out my Unboxing Video for this May 2024 Woolen Yarn Box. If you're thinking of joining, please purchase using my Affiliate Link. It won't cost you any extra. I will make a small commission. Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist Progress: My January (Month 4) squares done and seamed and the border is in progress. My February (Month 5) squares are in progress. Be Fearless Socks Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Be FearLess Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) About the Yarn: pink, peach yellow, green and blue stripes to look like the colors in our FearLESS Living Fund logo. Pet of our February fundraiser. Progress: more than half way done with leg on the first sock Christmas in July Socks Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base in the Christmas in July 2023 Colorway Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Area 51. Snack shack sponsor. Progress: finished first sock. Beyond the heel on the second sock. Brainstorming Keeping a “creative projects” list in Evernote is really helping me. With everything going on, I don't always have the mental energy to decide on something but making feels good and I'm happier when I do it. Thinking ahead to upcoming birthdays and listing patterns out is working better for me this year than ever before. April Plans Crochet beer hat for Chris – Red heart gold + Lion Brand Homespun Yarn- Hepplewhite (May 31st  birthday)-  yarn purchased Mini Mock Neck Tank for Liz. Pattern by Jessie Maed Designs. $9 knitting pattern on Ravelry We bought yarn for this at Rhinebeck and in an over-tired state, lost ourselves in a fit of giggles over the description of this pattern. I need to take Liz's measurements From the Armchair I'll Have What She's Having: How Nora Ephron's Three Iconic Films Saved the Romantic Comedy by Erin Carlson. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Women by Kristin Hannah. Bookshop Affiliate Link.Amazon Affiliate Link. The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. In My Travels On Sunday March 24, my friend Megg and I spent the day at Raffa Life in Cranston, Rhode Island. We did the 4 hour Urban Sweat in the morning. We took a Worm Moon Sound Bath Yoga Workshop in the afternoon. I left feeling loose, refreshed, and calm. Curious about what a Sound Bath is? Click here for an article that may be helpful. KAL News Splash Pad Party will be coming! Events The Yarn Seller's Fiber Marketplace– April 6, 2024 in York Beach, ME Shepard's Extravaganza: April 6-7 in Enumclaw, WA Whidbey Weavers Guild Spin-In: April 6-7 in Oak Harbor, WA Fiber Witch Festival: April 19-21, 2024 in Salem, MA (marketplace and classes) Connecticut Sheep & Wool: Sunday April 27, 2024 in North Haven, CT Yarncentrick Pop-up Event: May 2 & 3, 2024 in Frederick, MD Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 4 & 5, 2024 in West Friendship, MD New Hampshire Sheep & Wool: May 11 & 12, 2024 in Deerfield, NH Webs Fleece Market: May 18 in Northampton, MA (Tent sale May 16-17) Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival: May 18th in Bristol, RI Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 25 & 26, 2024 in Cummington, MA Flock Fiber Festival– August 4-6 in Seattle, WA Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival; September 21 & 22, 2024 in Greenwich, NY Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY For more West Coast (US) event- check out the Seattle Knitters Guild Site. Know of an event I should spread the word about? Let me know! Life in Focus I shared an update on my 24 for 2024 list 5) Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund 15) Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe (March: nearly 30 pieces) 16) Go skiing- 2/24 with Rowans 20) Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed. Ordered in march. 21) Buy a new blow dryer. March 21st ordered Dyson Ask Me Anything Rachel asked: How are you coping with your mom's health concerns and making time for self care? Going to bed early. Not scrolling on social media- it can be fun, yes, but too much makes me feel anxious. Talking with friends and with Dan. I started seeing a therapist. Making time- not having kids definitely helps with this, but as you all know, I can definitely over-schedule myself. I have been prioritizing family events and not much else. I don't enjoying saying no or seeing so much white space on the calendar- but I know I'll need it and I often do. On a Happy Note Friday night game night at my parents with my brother, Dan and the kids. We played a few spirited rounds of Skip-Bo and watched the Taylor Swift Eras tour movie on tv. Mom, Riley, Millie and I had a sleepover then spent Saturday doing some thrift and clothing shopping, went out for lunch and brought home Crumbl cookies to taste test (with my Dad/Pepere). My phone fell into the cookie with the MOST sticky frosting. It was hilarious! We all celebrated St. Patrick's Day at my cousin Susan's annual party. I had a blast catching up with cousins and especially playing with some of the little kiddos. Seeing the Girl from North Country (Broadway in Boston series). While Megg and I did not enjoy the show, its always fun to experience live theater and the music was beautiful. Monthly massage! Lunch with Mom, Dad, Kris and Aila. Garret's playoff hockey game! He got a hat trick, they won and got to the next round of playoffs (they won the second game too). Dinner with work friends. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Quote of the Week “Spring is when you feel like whistling, even with a shoe full of slush.” — Doug Larson —— Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out myDown Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Week7,Thursday. 1% every week is nice, you should try it. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james4078/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/james4078/support

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 271 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website- www.downcellarstudio.com/271    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Crafty Adventures In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   I Love You More Socks Yarn: Malabrigo Arroyo in the Azules colorway (medium denim blue) Needles: US 3(3.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page For these DK socks, I cast on 48 sts and followed the OMG heel instructions for that stitch count. I worked more ruonds of ribbing than I usually do and used that as the whole leg of the sock, then worked heel, and foot as usual.  I included some colorwork in a neon coral DK yarn to say " I love" on the left sock and "you more" on the right sock. When squished up it looks like it says I Love You Mom which is also perfect!   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Jenny's Blanket Pattern: Modified Sedge Stitch Blanket by Nicole Mansfield ($2 crochet pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Sky Blue, Teal, Mint, Cyan, Jade Green and Aqua Hook: I (5.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: nearly done with color 2 of 6.   Same as It Ever Was Hat Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Beatnik colorway Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Knit wit designs. Snack shack sponsor. Progress: nearly ready for the decreases.   Same as It Ever Was Hat #2 Pattern: Same as It Ever Was by Sarah Jordan ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Yarn: Kingdom Fleece and Fiberworks. No colorway listed. Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: more than half way done.   Nimbus Vest Pattern: Nimbus by Berrocco Design Team (free knitting pattern) Yarn: Worsted Weight 100% Wool (from Rhinebeck 2022) held double Needles:  US 10 (6.0mm) Ravelry Project Page Notes: I added about 4 inches to the body before the armholes.   From the Armchair Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewel. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Crafty Adventures   We recently had a crafty sleepover at my parents- Kris, Aila, Megg, Hattie, Millie, Riley (Jeff for a bit), Mom & her long-time friend Lin. Needle felting & Alcohol Inks + Fire on Glass (click here for a related video tutorial if you're curious)   Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints! Check them out at StitchedbyJessalu.com and stay tuned for a special FearLESS Living Fund themed bag coming soon as part of the February Fundraiser for BostonJensMom.   In My Travels   Mom, Millie and I met up with our friend Ryan at the Farm Fiber Days Event at Wayland Farmers Market at Russells Garden Center. Millie was looking for yarn to knit a hat for her dad. We found it in one of the first booths- Plied Yarns. Always great to see Ann Weaver. We did a full loop and went back to purchase yarn. I bought a handsewn chicken potholder set. The Blue Heron Farm (in Vermont) hosted their table for folks to learn Needle Felting. Millie made Ryan a butterfly like the ones she made for us. Thanks to "Auntie Shelly" at Blue Heron for encouraging Millie. I got some great info from Jim Grant from Good Karma Farm about getting going on my Cricular Sock Machine. Check out their video on How to Knit a Sock on Circular Sock Machine for beginners. We got lunch after at The Local. Then Mom and I went back and I bought a few plants, a watering can & a decorative pumpkin from the clearance section. The next Farm Fiber Days at Wayland Farmer's Market is March 3, 2024. Details can be found on their website.   Vogue Knitting Live in New York City Class: A Lace for Everything and Everything in Its Lace with Bristol Ivy In the marketplace, I ran into my friend Sarah in the Cowgirlblues booth where I bought some mini skeins. I was thrilled to run into Petrina, Shameika, Twinset Jan I was so happy to meet Pigskin Sponsor, Terri from At Haynes House Yarns. I bought a mini skein bundle from The Golden Purls. I got a quilted bucket bag from M.A.B.E.L, yarn for hat, earrings & a bracelet with fabric covered beads.   Other New York City Notable Moments: Saturday- farmer's market, walked the High Line, visited Chelsea Market, had dinner at Shukette & saw Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway. Sunday- we saw Poor Things at a theater in Lincoln Center and continued our Oscar Nominee movie watch with Past Lives & Anatomy of a Fall (which I didn't enjoy as much as The Replacements which we watched earlier in the weekend)   KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Quarter 4 Challenge: Cable It Up brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the 4th Quarter Lolodidit. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. Reminder- the KAL ends on February 12th. Get those projects finished! Update from Commentator: Mary There's lots of strategizing and discussion about what there is and is not time to finish before the end of PSP.  Relatedly, there is some discussion about the joys of finishing longstanding WIPs even if those projects don't count for pigskin party. There was also recently some discussion on pros and cons of different approaches to provisional cast ons, including a method where you use a stitch saver instead of scrap yarn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olAZk2tkTus).  Finally, there's been some talk of travel plans including the intense decision making process that crafters go through when they are trying to decide what projects to bring on a trip.  This has included discussion of pros and cons of checking luggage vs. carrying on and some musings about who decided that packing light is a value we should all aspire to anyway. Kristen recently shared a link to a story about monkeyshine hunting.  Its a neat tradition that coincides with lunar new year in Tacoma. https://gritcitymag.com/2020/01/a-little-backstory-on-monkeyshines-in-tacoma/ Here's a highlight from the endzone dance thread: Sandyrlevin completed an amazing sweater with a really detailed octopus on it. She did it all with duplicate stitch!  It is truly amazing. https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Sandyrlevin/217-12-amur-maple     Events   Check out all of the details about our Fiber Community February FearLESS Living Fundraiser including the participating makers.   To make a personal donation, you can use this link  Please use the option to “Add a Public Comment” to let us know you're part of this Fiber Community Fundraiser.  I recommend including your Instagram/Ravelry user name so sponsors doing prize drawings and confirm/find you.   More About This Project: February 9th is my mom, Diane Lassonde's, birthday. Diane came up with the idea for the FearLESS Living Fund when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer in December 2021. Since then, each birthday we celebrate with her is precious and this year, with your help, I want to make her birthday month even MORE special by raising funds for this charity she's created.   The FearLESS Living Fund picks up where the Blind Center of Nevada's services leave off, helping their outstanding clients to live more fearlessly in pursuit of their dreams. In 2023, we gave out over $9,000 in scholarships. You can watch a video of the event here. With your help, we can raise even more.   I also have some wonderful goodies here that I am going to giveaway. I'll be pulling winners from those who donate via the PayPal page. Be sure to mention you're part of the Fiber Community Fundraiser and list your Instagram or Ravelry Name so I can find you and send you your prize.   Life in Focus   2024 Word of the Year- Heart Found a heart mural in NYC Bought a small heart shaped pottery dish to use for stitch markers at a local shop where everything is handcrafted by disabled students at their school. Made a collage of photos (from Walgreens template) from family photo shoot and had it printed 11x14. Now I need to find a place to hang it. Looked at heart jewelry but didn't find any pieces that were "me" so I'm still looking.   24 for 2024 List- updates Get 2 massages beyond the one per month at Massage Envy End the year with more money in the bank than when I started in January. ($51,397- includes CD) Make & assess goals each month of the year Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) Organize a fundraiser for the FearLESS Living Fund (DONE) Come up with better temporary & more permanent storage for memory items. Visit 1 new (to me) museum or historical site Add one new indoor plant to my collection (DONE) Buy/make/work with Dan/Oisin on at least 1 plant stand for the living or dining room Publish at least one new pattern Knit at least 1 finished project with handspun Knit/crochet myself a new sweater Make a Christmas afghan for the living room- in progress Take a class (DONE) Purge at least 20 items from my wardrobe Go skiing Watch at least 5 of the movies on the Jen/Liz movie list 1) Hercules Do something special for our Anniversary in May Do a regular (ideally monthly) review of Dropbox Camera Uploads to delete unnecessary items Buy a new quilt and/or duvet cover for our bed Buy a new blow dryer. Get my car detailed (DONE) Buy new curtains for living room- ordered some to try on 1/19 Try a new local restaurant - Lolita (want one even MORE local)   4 of 24 done in January!   On a Happy Note I was chatting with my friend Margarita who is from the Philippines. She mentioned she gets dried mango in bulk from home and sent some over to me! So sweet of her! Movie night with Liz- Hercules. Car Detailing! It literally feels and smells like a new car! Usually 3+ month wait list- but not at this time of year. Mom made it through Round 1 of Chemo- 3 days in a row. My cousin Jenny (also a nurse at the hospital) visited during day 2 and our cousin Joanie took Mom in on day 3 instead of dad. It was great to spend some quality time with them. Seeing Moulin Rouge with Megg at the Boston Opera House (and dinner at Lolita beforehand) Quality time with Laura & my first visit to NYC since before the pandemic...   Quote of the Week Energy creates energy. It is by spending myself that I become rich. –SARAH BERNHARDT   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 269 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later Crafty Adventures Knitting in Passing KAL News Contest, News & Notes On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Tailgate Party Mittens Pattern: Tailgate Party Hat & Mittens by Wendy Gaal of Knitters Brewing Co Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) Yarn: Dancing Leaf Dyeworks. Bee Bop 100% SW Merino DK  (no colorway name) Ravelry Project Page After finishing the mittens, I used Duplicate Stitch to write "fear" on the left palm and "less" on the right palm. I used this video tutorial from Very Pink Knits to help me.   Boxing Gloves Ornament Pattern: Boxing Gloves by Michael Hon ($3 crochet pattern available on Ravelry) Hook: D (3.25 mm) Yarn: Caron One Pound in Scarlet + white acrylic worsted weight yarn Ravelry Project Page These worked up in one busy evening after work and were a gift for the owners of my gym.   Colourful Mini Dino Pattern: Colourful Mini Dino by Anika Kam (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry) Hook: C (2.75 mm) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in the Lady Slipper colorway + mystery worsted acrylic yarn of a similar shade of purple   Clown collar Pattern: improvsing on my own. Used this free Clown Ruff pattern from Slipped Stitch Hollow as a starting point Hook: H (5.0 mm) Yarn: Big Twist Twinkle (Gray), Big Twist Value (Grape), Craft Smart Neon Value (neon yellow) & mystery worsted sparkle yarn in pink and white Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield Ravelry Project Page Progress: working on second 4 oz in the Welcome to Litchfield Colorway in 70/30 BFL/Tussah Silk   Christmas in July Socks Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Area 51. Snack shack sponsor. Progress: finished first sock. Half way through leg on second.   Hattie's Scrappy Helical Socks Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. Ravelry Project Page Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting.   Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page   Calendula Christmas Quilt Pattern: Calendula Quilt by Elena Fedotova Yarn: Big Twist Value Solids in Ivory, Deep Red, Varsity Green, Aqua, Medium Rose Hook:  G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page     From the Armchair   Books 2 & 3 of the Silo Series: Shift by Hugh Howey. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Dust by Hugh Howey. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.     Crafty Adventures We celebrated Christmas with friends by decorating Gingerbread houses which was a ton of fun!   Knitting in Passing I went consignment shopping and reminded the owner that we'd met before and that I was the "knitter" and she promptly asked for help with gauge math for a handspun cabled sweater she wants to cast on.   KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. I announced November participation winners. Updates from Commenter- Mary Pigskin partiers have been busy this month! Over 500 projects have been submitted for points already this month! Players are finishing both small and large projects. There have been over 30 blitzes and over 40 safeties so far this month. There's still time to participate in the Q3 challenge.  14 people have submitted their finished projects for the challenge so far. BlkGirlsKnitPurl (EJ) posted a beautiful Christmas-y version in the end zone dance thread: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/BlkGirlsKnitPurl/the-waymaker-cowl In the huddle thread, lots of folks who have time off at the end of the year and/or are traveling have been discussing plans for what to work on. There's also lots of talk of holiday plans and gift knits! Finally, there's been a bit of chatter about the pros and cons of monogamous knitting and strategies to make sure you are never caught waiting somewhere without a project to work on.    Contest, News & Notes Vlogmas 2023 highlights: Day 15: Gingerbread Houses Day 23: At the request of viewer, Suzanne, I shared a few of my shawl patterns, MEGAROW, World of Difference, Boxing Day Bonus and the Riley Rose Shawl. You can use coupon code 10years for 25% off my patterns on Ravelry through the Superbowl! You can find the full 2023 Vlogmas Playlist here.   On a Happy Note Riley's sleepover. Crafting. Watching Spirited (Apple tv movie) for first time. Dana and Sheri's Christmas party. Helping with and enjoying Hattie & Aila's dance recital Gifting Hattie her ride-on Jeep We lost power in a storm, but the power outage was shorter quicker than usual. Dan finished his advent puzzles. Helping to hide Secret Santas at the gym. Taylor, who was the actual Secret Santa, also gifted me a handmade wooden tree and ornament! They are so beautiful and I'm thankful for her thoughtfulness. Christmas lunch with my friends Waveney and Kim. Running into Megg at the consignment store I kept telling her to visit. We bought found Christmas outfits! Relaxing Christmas Eve day and ending the day at my cousin Susan's party. Christmas Day- playing on the floor with Gabriella and Zachary. Seeing Will and Aila excited about Christmas even well into their teens. A fabulous and fun time spent with my family for the rest of the day.   Quote of the Week Beauty is as much about how and whether you look as what you see. –John Green   ------   For website: Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

This week the guys talk about their vastly differing opinions of A Murder At The End of the World (and whether it really is in Iceland) as well as catching up on Invincible, and another amazing episode of Doctor Who, featuring the last scenes with Wilfred.You can support this show by visiting our merch store, or by leaving us an Apple Podcasts review.

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 267 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. Click here.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, The Little Wolf Knits & Suburban Stitcher   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Splash Socks Yarn: Biscotte Yarn Bis Sock in the Splash Colorway (blue self-striping yarn) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Made for David Markus as a thank you for donating to the FearLESS Living Fund in October of 2023. Finished in time for Laura to bring them back with her after her visit the weekend before Thanksgiving. Length of foot- 8.5 inches before toe Knit them in line at a Sample Sale Mom, Laura, Trish and I went to the Saturday morning of Laura's visit. People in line jumped in to photo bomb so that was fun.   2 Christmas Stockings   Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Patrick's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page Melissa's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page   Drawn Together Cowl Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) Ravelry Project Page Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.     Wish Star Patterns: Sol Amigurumi by Vanessa Doncatto (free crochet pattern on Ravelry ) Wide Mustache by Crochet with Clare (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & the Crochet with Clare website) Heart Garland by Sarahndipidities (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & the Sarahndipidities website) Hooks: B (2.25 mm), C (2.75 mm) & D (3.25 mm) Yarn: Big Twist- Solids in Varsity Yellow (for the sun body) and Big Twist Twinkle in Yellow for the heart/face. Leftover red fingering yarn for the mustache. Ravelry Project Page Made on Black Friday afternoon   Brachiosaurus Pattern:  Dinosaur Jurassic World No Sew Crochet Pattern by Klein Maker on Etsy ($9.89 for 4 patterns) Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable in the Jade colorway (body) & Knit Picks Brava Worsted in the Sky colorway Hook: C (2.75 mm) Ravelry Project Page Pattern wouldn't be ideal for beginners. Doesn't tell you when/where to put in Safety Eyes before closing things up. No other major issues, but just be thoughtful. I paid less than $4 for the 4 pack of dino patterns. Worth it.   Bobble pumpkin Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin ($3 crochet pattern on Ravelry or free option on this website) Hook: I (5.5 mm) Yarn: Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Succulent Colorway Ravelry Project Page I used nearly all 97 meters in this skein with 6 repeats of the pattern.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Silver Spoon Socks Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: peaches and pinks with gray/taupe. At my gauge it is striping (~2 rounds per color). I purchased this yarn at Yarncentric event in Maryland. Progress: Almost done with the first leg.   Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Sock yarn in the Forged Iron Colorway Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube in this Playlist This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors. Progress Notes- 1st two sets of squares are done. I've crocheted a few from the November kit.   Hattie's Scrappy Helical Socks Yarn: Random bits & bobs of fingering weight leftovers Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) US 1 (not 1.5), 48 sts. long cuff. Ravelry Project Page Check out my video tutorial for using Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting Progress: I'm about half way through the leg of the first sock.   Woolens & Nosh 2023 Advent Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targhee Sock. 2023 Advent Set Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page Note- pair 199 of OMG Heel Socks!   DK Bella Fio Socks Yarn: BellaFio DK Sock (75% SW Merino/ 25% recycled nylon) in the Great Gray Owl colorway.  Goosey Fibers Goosey Hefty (100% SW Merino- Worsted Weight) in Buckbeack (cuffs, heels and toes) Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) Ravelry Project Page About this project: Great Gray Owl colorway is a beautiful blend of light blues with hints of green, some small bits of a yellowy green and some neutral cream/tan hues. Buckbeak is a beautiful taupe color that pairs beautifully and I love that both colorway names are based on birds. Perfect for our Q2 challenge! Thanks again to BellaFio for sponsoring this month and encouraging us to Embrace Nature! Pair 200 of OMG Heel for me!   Vampires of Venice Spinning Fiber: Into the Whirled. 4oz Falkland in the Vampires of Venice colorway. Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Split braid in half. First half has already been spun. Plan is to use the yarn to knit this Tweed Tie available on Ravelry.   Clown collar Pattern: improvsing on my own. Used this free Clown Ruff pattern from Slipped Stitch Hollow as a starting point Hook: H (5.0 mm) Yarn: Big Twist Twinkle (Gray), Big Twist Value (Grape), Craft Smart Neon Value (neon yellow) & mystery worsted sparkle yarn in pink and white Ravelry Project Page I had a quick visit with Emelyn while they were home for Thanksgiving break. When I asked if there was anything on their Christmas wish list I should know about, they said they'd like a handmade clown collar! I love a good curveball!   Brainstorming Millie wants a goat squishy/toy that looks like her squishmellow I'd like to make toys for Hattie and Gabriella and another dinosaur for Zachary. Mom picked out a skein of yarn for mitts at Rhinebeck that I'd like to knit up before Christmas. I'd like to make 1 other pumpkin.   From the Armchair   Escaping Twin Flames Documentary on Netflix Lessons in Chemistry on Apple TV   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing I shared two recent stories about meeting other knitters/talking about knitting in the wild. I met a lovely woman named Joanne at her consignment shop. She was knitting when Mom was wandering around the store so of course she struck up a conversation. Turns out, Joanne also spins too! We had a lovely chat and Mom took a photo of us. I was recently waiting for my car to get it's oil changed when a kind.79 year old woman asked about my knitting and we ended up chatting for an hour. We talked about restoration of old Victorian in my home town where she owns a condo now.   Stitched by JessaLu is the home of handmade project bags in a variety of fun, floral, geeky, or pop-culture themed prints. All bags are made by one woman - JessaLu - on an antique Singer sewing machine in her home in Western Massachusetts. JessaLu has been making quality project bags and an assortment of sewn accessories since 2008 and has recently begun to design her own exclusive prints! The 2023 Limited Edition Holiday prints are currently listed - hurry to order yours while they are still available!   KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com In this episode: Finish up your Q2 Project by the end of November. Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. Quarter 3 Challenge: The Waymaker's Cowl brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Mandi's Makings. Runs December 1-31, 2023. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. Updates from Commentator Mary   Lots of players are talking about double-dipping in other make-alongs. A great thing about the PSP is that you can work on whatever you want so it is easy to have one project count for both PSP points and another MAL! Hikesandbikes is planning an epic shawl project (the Genesis Shawl- check out her Ravelry Project Page) for the Yarniacs podcast's self-indulgent make along. Find details in their Ravelry group. Many many players are planning to participate in PSP-sponsor Imagined Landscapes' snow matter what December mystery gnome knit along. There's lots of chatter on the boards about what colors folks plan to use.  There's also some talk of the Indie Gift Along which is hosted on Ravelry. Several PSP sponsors are participating so this one is particularly ripe for double-dipping! Some players are also planning on joining Andrea Mowry's instafriends KAL Also on the boards there is lots of chatter about holiday movies, including Emmet Otter's Jug Band. That is a new to me Jim Henson movie that I definitely plan to check out!     Events THANK YOU to everyone who donated handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Check out these beautiful photos. I'll be participating in Vlogmas again this year. Is there anything you especially want to see? Let me know and I'll see what I can do. Check out previous years playlists:  Vlogmas 2022 Playlist & Vlogmas 2021 Playlist Advent Knitting. Check out this Ravelry Bundle put together by Knitty Natty if you need ideas for an Advent project. Thanks for including my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl- Ravelry | LoveCrafts. Don't forget you can use coupon code 10 years for 25% off any of my patterns on Ravelry. Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024 (not sure if I'll be there yet. More to come)   Contest, News & Notes What's going on on the YouTube Channel? Health Update videos with Mom (Diane Lassonde). Check out Part 1 and Part 2. November Let the Mystery Unravel Video   On a Happy Note My friend Laura visited from NYC the weekend before Thanksgiving! We did some consignment shopping & went out to eat with Mom on Friday. Saturday we went to a Sample sale then a couple craft fairs with Mom & Trish. We had a wuick visit to Megg and got to see my nephew Oisin. We survived a big regulatory visit at the hospital I work at. Thanksgiving highlights- Coloring with Gabriella, reading and making snowflakes with my cousins' kids. Black Friday shopping. No lines Decorating with Mom and Dad. Oisín signing Christmas carols. Decorating our tree with Liz. Dan is finished a huge work project. Crazy hours over holiday but it all went well. I'll do an update on my 23 for 2023 list in the next episode but I'm feeling really good about it. If you do these kinds of lists, I'd love to crowdsource ideas in the Ravelry Group!   Quote of the Week   For nothing is fixed, forever and forever and forever, it is not fixed; the earth is always shifting, the light is always changing, the sea does not cease to grind down rock. –James Baldwin      Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 266 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Rising Tide Fiber Co, Enchanted Etchings, Chit Chat Knits   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   3 Crochet Charity Hats Wool Ease Thick & Quick Bedrock Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 9 mm crochet hook Standard circle increases up to (inc, sc5) Lion Brand Baby's First Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 8 mm crochet hook. I added a large flower using this tutorial from Instagram by tanoshiimajo. Purple Crochet Hat. Ravelry Project Page. 8 mm crochet hook. Mystery yarn.   Perry's Christmas Hat Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood Yarn: Goosey Fibers, Squishy DK. OOAK colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) for ribbing. US 7 (4.5 mm) for body. Ravelry Project Page Notes- This is the 14th time I've knit this pattern. Yarn was a sample from collab with Cait for my Stay Out of the Forest Hat which you can find on  Ravelry & LoveCrafts.   I blocked & sewed the buttons on Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website) Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 My Ravelry Project Page   I added belt loops to Mom's Wave of Change Cardigan- Ravelry Project Page.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Liz's Socks Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the  (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page   Jen/Riley's Matching Hexi Blankets Pattern: Using this photo tutorial & this video tutorial. Hook: D (3.25 mm) We are making 4 round hexagons. As Riley finishes one, she texts me and I work up my corresponding mini. We've done 4 so far.   Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page Check out the October Unboxing video Progress: I finished the 3-round border in the dark gray.   Welcome to Litchfield Spinning Project 4 oz of Texel from Into the Whirled- Welcome to Litchfield Ravelry Project Page   Christmas Stockings   Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Patrick's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page Melissa's Stocking- Ravelry Project Page   Brainstorming I received my Woolens & Nosh Advent socks. I wound up the contrast color and I'm going to plan to finish both cuffs before December 1st.   From the Armchair   The Armor of Light by Ken Follett (read by John Lee). Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Red White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   In My Travels   Fiber Festival of New England Ran into Jean (Mazzy Girl), Amy (CapeNeddickknitter),  Michelle- chellescrips, Jen, Carlos, Aurora & Zelda. Jess & Roger and team from Stitched by Jessalu. Donated a percentage of their sales to our FearLESS Living Fund. Donation for $350 came through this week and we are so grateful. If any other sponsors would like to do a fundraiser like this in the future, let us know! We'd love to help promote it. Check out our video to see the Eastern States Exposition Center, see what we bought and all of the fun eye candy!   KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Updates this Episode Tune in to hear if you won an October Participation Prize. I also announced the winners of our Announce Q1 Challenge winners- hosted by Paper Daisy Creations. Quarter 2 Challenge: Embrace Nature brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Bella Fio. Runs 11/1-11/30/23. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. I gave a sneak peek of our Quarter 3 Challenge.  Check out the Waymaker Cowl by Amanda Massingill (Mandi's Makings). Free knitting pattern available on Ravelry. WIPs Challenge: Finish WIPs you started before the Pigskin Party kicked off on 9/7/23! If you finish them between 11/10/23 and 1/10/24, you'll earn 150 points. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. I announced October Participation Prize Winners, Quarter 1 Challenge Winners & gave a sneak peek of our Quarter 3 Challenge hosted by Mandi's Makings. Check out The Waymaker Cowl on Ravelry. Update from Commissioners: There is lots of excitement about the Q2 challenge. Most of the people who have finished have completed hats. If you poke around the scoreboard and the chat threads you'll see so many stunning examples. For example, quite a few folks have finished patterns from the knitting the National parks book.  Juliepoolie71 made the Crater Lakes hat. Ravelry Project Page. Esalaza made the Hawai'i Volcanoes Beanie. Ravelry Project Page. Knitternicole made the Theodore Roosevelt Beanie. Ravelry Project Page. But you don't have to knit a hat for this challenge. Hollyelyse finished a whole colorwork sweater for the challenge (in 10 days!) Check out the Ravelry Project Page. You don't even have to knit for this challenge. You can crochet or spin too. For example: Sarahsyarn86 is crocheting adorable granny squares that have daisies in the center. Check out the Ravelry Project Page. Katanorand is working on a spinning project using fiber in the colorway strawberry fields. Check out this Ravelry Post.    Events My cousin Linda's friend is looking for warm handknit/crocheted items for adult and youth homeless in Massachusetts. They set up tables on Thanksgiving and put all of the handmade items on the fence outside their church in Woburn center. Calling for all makers who want to donate. PM me on Ravelry or email me at downcellarstudio at gmail.com and I'll give you the address to send them to. Any fiber type welcome. Hats, scarves, mitts, shawls, blankets. Anything warm is welcome! I'll be participating in Vlogmas again this year. Is there anything you especially want to see? Let me know and I'll see what I can do. Check out previous years playlists:  Vlogmas 2022 Playlist & Vlogmas 2021 Playlist Vogue Knitting Live- New York City: January 25- 28, 2024     Contest, News & Notes Scrappy Helical Clasp Weft Tutorial available on my YouTube Channel. In this video I show you how to use Cate's Clasp Weft Join along with Helical Knitting to create really fun and vibrant scrappy socks without having to weave in a million ends! Check out my trip with Mom to New England Fiber Festival. November Yarnable Unboxing Video is available. Coming soon- life/health updates recorded with Mom.   On a Happy Note For Halloween, Mom & I reprised our Sanderson sister roles. I trick or treated with Hattie for a little while then hung out by the fire with family and friends. Megg & I bought a 5 pack of tickets for shows at the Boston Opera House this season. Our first show was November 1st, Frozen. We were able to add on two tickets and bring Millie and Hattie with us. We had an absolutely magical night! On the Saturday while Mom & I were at New England Fiber Festival, Riley was texting me. She did her first hexi all on her own! Then a couple more! When she ran out of minis, she moved onto her Riley Rose Cowl and sent a photo of her knitting and watching Gilmore Girls. Be still my heart! Watching Gabriella & Zachary for the afternoon. Finally making a dent in my Christmas shopping. My goal the last couple years has been to be completely finished before December 1 so I can really enjoy December. Sometimes I'm better at that than other years, but I'm going to really try hard to get that done by my deadline this year. One of my cousin Lauren's friends from Amsterdam gifted me a pack of Stroopwafels which I enjoyed with coffee in my new chicken mug from NE Fiber Fest! We went to Flight Club in Seaport District of Boston for Conor's 35th Birthday- just after I found out he and Carly are expecting their first baby in June (right around my. birthday)!   Quote of the Week   Bad luck in small doses can cast a glittering light on the rest of life. –Ann Patchett   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 264  of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Fibernymph Dye Works, Twin Mountain Handcrafts, AdoreKnit & Suburban Stitcher   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Benjamin's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page   Strathcona Sweater Pattern: Strathacona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on the Good Night, Day website) Yarn: 3 yarns 1) handspun, 2) Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway 3) Aisling Yarns BFL in the Hurry Sundown Colorway Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm) (neck), US 19 (15 mm) (body) I'm knitting Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust) Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Liz's Socks Yarn: Area 51 Fibres Sturdy Alien Base ( n the  (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) in the National Periodic Table Day Colorway (self striping with rainbow and gray) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Progress- 6 inches on the first leg & a couple rows of the heel. I purposely   Drawn Together Cowl Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video.   Space Daddy Socks Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page   Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website) Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 My Ravelry Project Page   Brainstorming   During the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul, Liz found a sweater pattern she likes- The Order of the Jedi Pullover by Meghan Regan. Available on in Star Wars Knitting the Galaxy: The Official Star Wars Knitting Pattern Book. Ravelry pattern page   Garter Stitch Cardigans Cruiser by Kristen Finlay ~$7 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry Kallias by Isabell Kraemer is another contender. Worsted weight cardigan, no button bands, positive ease. ~$7 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry. Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website)   I talked a bit about travel knitting/crochet for my upcoming trip to Vegas/NY   Sue from Legacy Fiber Artz is crocheting a super bulky blanket and I'm totally inspired! Special Edition Autumn Coastline Hexie Blanket by Mallory Krall. Crochet pattern: $4.50 US available on Ravelry & for free on the NautiKrall website.   From the Armchair Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.     KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Tune in to hear if you're a September Participation Prize Winner Check out these cool links from our Commissioners Update There is lots of talk of socks in the huddle thread--no doubt inspired by our Q1 challenge.  12 people have already completed socks for the Q1 challenge and player helmadejong has already completed two pairs! They've made two shortie pairs of Lisa K. Ross's rough waters pattern https://www.ravelry.com/projects/HelmadeJong/rough-waters and https://www.ravelry.com/projects/HelmadeJong/rough-waters-2 Lots of players are getting in the fall spirit by making pumpkins.  For example: Three players knit up pumpkins:  mostlymunchies recently finished some glow in the dark pumpkins that look very cool: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/mostlymunchies/mini-pumpkins-14 procrasticrafting also knit a very large pumpkin. Their project page includes a dog for scale! https://www.ravelry.com/projects/jazprocraftinates/big-pumpkin helpfulmomma also knit up a cute little pumpkin: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cxf_R_5LXh2/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D&img_index=1 Sophiexuan machine knit some pumpkins: https://www.ravelry.com/projects/HurdenSX/addi-king-pumpkins-tweed Six players (LaDiDa2U, Sarahsyarn86, dottyandsassy, KjKrochet, yarnitheidi, and mackbytf) all crocheted some very cute pumpkins. YarnitHeidi's pumpkins are huge! https://www.ravelry.com/projects/LaDiDa2u/spice--clove-knit-and-crochet-pumpkins-3 https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx6izWeJNgC/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D https://www.ravelry.com/projects/SarahsYarn86/farmhouse-pumpkin https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Dottyandsassy/plushy-pumpkin https://www.ravelry.com/projects/kjkrochet/crochet-pumpkin https://www.ravelry.com/projects/YarnItHeidi/farmhouse-bobble-pumpkins   Events   Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds NY Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck - October 21 & 22, 2023 Join Me for a Rhinebeck Meet Up- Saturday 2p. There are permanent booths with food next to Building A. Across from that is a beer tent. To the left of the beer tent there's a covered pavilion area. Look for Mom, Liz, Riley & I there. Come over to the Ravelry Thread about Pigskin Partiers going to Rhinebeck. Thanks ElsaandEm for starting it. It's her first year attending. Hoping we get to meet! Indie Untangled: Friday October 20 from 10a-4p in Saugerties. Tickets for 1, 2:30p and 4p still available.   Cakepalooza: Friday October 20 from 10a-5p in Saugerties. Tickets for the 2p & 4p entries are still available Wool & Folk: Friday October 20 from 12-7p in Stoneridge, NY Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)   Life in Focus   #1- Read 23 books (35 as of August- 43 as of early october) #7- Give blood at least 3 times (March, May, August, October done) #9- Knit/crochet at least one project with handspun- Strathcona sweater #17- Purge at least 23 items from the house. Ideally 46. After a smaller clean out earlier in the year, I took a full car load to Savers in October- lots of clothes. #23 Create a new music playlist. Riley's. Plus CMA fest artists. Summer playlist, Old Dominion     On a Happy Note My friend Megg and I took a longer than usual walk through our local State Park! After almost 8 miles, I came home and pressure washed the house & deck. For the deck, I used a surface cleaner from Ryobi that Dan purchased. You can find the same one on Amazon for $51. Parts of the deck were so badly stained from years of drought when we couldn't wash it. Areas where the wood pile is were especially bad. Exhausting but very satisfying day. My cousin Chris & his wife Kim threw a wonderful party for their son Benjamin's Baptism. I spent a week night at brother and sister-in-law's while they attended a work function. Ran the kids around to their activities, then Millie and I knit for a bit before she and Garret went to bed. Riley & I knit and watch Gilmore Girls before we went to bed. Truly delightful. My financial advisor reached out to me after hearing that my work Open Enrollment is coming up and there was an option for a high deductible health plan that allows for a Health Savings Account, which he had encouraged me to do before (but it wasn't an option). Great customer service! Find a good financial advisor. It is so worth it. Dan and I spent one evening at our nephew Will's soccer game in our home town. They got clobbered but it was fun to see him play. I also knit a bit and listened to my audiobook during part of the second half. Mom, Riley, Millie & I got mani pedis at a local place! Our annual Woodchopping Weekend Party went off without a hitch. Perfect weather. Great food. Dan took the kids on hayrides using a trailer pulled by the backhoe. Kids played disc golf and later flashlight tag, then retreated inside to make TikTok videos while the adults and littles made s'mores outside by the fire and chatted. Mom & I put blue streaks in our hair after our friend Erika, who cuts/colors our hair, encouraged Mom to do this before her Vegas trip last year. Mom said if she was still here to go this year, she'd do it. Here we are! It looks great. Finished up work on our FearLESS Living Fund Website. The bulk of the work and formatting, design was done by my Mom's friend Emma who was really generous to do this for us! So far we've raised  almost $14,000 help the Blind community of Nevada. We are giving away awards for 2 special people to assist with their housing and cell phone costs for the upcoming year! Can't wait to raise more money. You can donate here. Watching Love is Blind and chatting about it with my friend Laura. Great customer service from AirBnB after our host canceled our Rhinebeck AirBnB.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Quote of the Week   "Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts it is glorious even to fail."   -Bruce Lee ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Episode 5.5 I Don't Know What I Taught Those People I Was So High Welcome to another exciting episode of Dinner Table Talks! Joining me at the table this week is the fabulous Deidra Meyer-Hager, owner of Design Concepts Salon and Boutique, and you guessed it a Capricorn bestie. We're here to dive deep into some sizzling hot topics because, let's face it, I adore boss bitches! This week, we've got an eclectic mix on the menu: The daring escape attempt My encounters with coral snakes, a wake-up call for sure! The age-old question: Did you conquer the creature or let it be? Exploring neuromuscular dysfunction and its implications The mystery dweller inside that enigmatic hole Getting precise with diagnostics, because accuracy matters A choice: Will we harness this power for good or let it lead to our demise? A gentle reminder: Don't let the door hit you on your way out! Oops, did that slip out? Nifty tricks to dodge phone conversations (because who enjoys them anyway?) Confessions of an Earth allergy - it's a thing! That time I mystified folks while soaring in the clouds Embracing our introverted souls, a secret we share with the world When I had to boldly declare my uniqueness, and the world quaked in fear A flag beckoning me forward, a symbol of promise and adventure Caught in the liminal space, riding the waves of tranquility before the tempest strikes Tune in for a whirlwind of conversation that promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of life, from the quirky to the profound. Let's savor the calm before the storm, together! Unanswered Questions: Do Coral Snakes live in families? What's the likelihood of snake bite? Where do they live? Did Aislynn try using AI to find a recipe? Recipe of the Week: Thank you ChatGPT! "Ground Beef and Swiss Chard Stuffed Bell Peppers" that meets your dietary restrictions: Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers 1 pound ground beef 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and leaves chopped 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked, add chopped Swiss chard and basil to the skillet. Cook until the chard is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stuff the hollowed-out bell peppers with the beef and chard mixture. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. Serve hot and enjoy! This recipe avoids dairy, sugar, corn, and wheat. It's a flavorful dish that fits your dietary preferences. Enjoy! Random Question: What do you do when you're homesick? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinnertabletalks/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinnertabletalks/support

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 263 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found on my website- click here.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Crafty Adventures In my Travels KAL News Events Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, winemakersister and Buxom Cat Knits   Shout out to Ultimate Insider Patrons: knitprincess83, Haidi, Rachel, Alexi, Adoreknit, Alicia, Rachel, Agnes, Kristina and Beth   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Bobble Pumpkin Pattern: Ribbed Bobble Pumpkin by Breann Mauldin ($3 crochet pattern on Ravelry or free option on this website) Hook: G (4.0 mm) Yarn: Sprightly Acrylic Worsted in the Ecru Colorway My Ravelry Project Page   Bedside Pocket Pattern: None Yarn: Kindful Yarn, Swish DK, Kenzie Yarn, Cape Cod Yarn Co Hook: 6.5 mm (K) Ravelry Project Page I started this project on 9/4. 75 sts across. Single crochet. First section- Kindful yarn with Swish DK in Mimic Second section- Kenzie Yarn with Cape Cod Yarn Co Third Section- Kindful Yarn (lighter colorway) with Quince & Co I folded it over, seamed up both sides then put border around all the way over. I used yarn to seam up the middle to separate pocket into 2 so it would be less floppy. Final thoughts- could be a little deeper, but I can always add to it.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription + Cascade Heritage Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page You can find my September 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube. This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors. Progress Notes- I didn't like the sc border I originally added (confirmed by blocking) so I ripped it back. I am now working the border in dc like the granny squares. 1 DC in the spot where each square is seamed together, then (2dc, ch2, 2 dc) in each corner and that seems to be working well.   Space Daddy Socks Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- blues with pink, neon yellow, purple. I bought this yarn at the Yarncentric event before the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival this year. I bought it with my friend Laura in mind. During her last visit, I asked her to pick out new yarn for socks. She picked out three skeins and decided this should be #1. Progress: I'm in a couple inches beyond the first cuff. Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.   Mom's 2023 Rhinebeck Sweater Pattern: Carbeth Cardigan by Kate Davies (~$8 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & this website) Needles: US 7 (4.5 mm) for the ribbing and US 9 (5.5 mm) for the body Yarn: Sweitzer Fiber Mill mystery yarn purchased at Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023 My Ravelry Project Page Progress: Body is finished up through what will likely be the sleeve join. I've cast on both sleeves.   Drawn Together Cowl Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video. Progress- I've added another inch since last time we talked.   Crafty Adventures My cousin Gayle came up for another visit and led another Resin art class with cousins on my Mom's side of the family. Last time I made a cutting board. This time I made a pumpkin lazy susan- perfect for fall hosting! My cousins made some really beautiful things. I'll share some photos in the show notes for you. Thanks, Gayle, for sharing your talents with us!   In My Travels Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- video coming soon. Safe to say, I had lots of fun with Riley, Liz and Mom. Spoiler alert- stay tuned to the end of the video for some fun bloopers and outtakes. Thanks Riley & Liz for getting some awesome footage of the weekend. I don't think I held the camera once the entire time! It's really fun to share this with them.   KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Quarter 1 Challenge: Sock it to 'em brought to you by our Official Sponsor of the Quarter Paper Daisy Creations (Ravelry Link). Runs 10/1-10/31. Full details can be found in this Google Doc and in this Ravelry Thread. Thanks to our Correspondents for checking in with some fun updates. Check out the Ravelry Group to find some of the new Pigskin chat threads- Pigskin Recipe Ideas,Pigskin ‘23 Book Club, Pigskin Participant Podcast, and Pigskin ‘23 Westknits MKAL Congrats to PAKnitWit (Sarah) who already got a blitz (first of the season!). She finished a crochet corner to corner blanket- Ravelry link here. As of Sunday evening 9/24 we have 512 Participants- 236 with Points on the Scoreboard (Average of those with points is 204 Points. Highest: 1532 Lowest: 2. 3 Blitz projects! As of 9/29- Conference Standings LFC (22,460 pts) SFC (22,375 pts)  AFC (18,632 pts)- Top Team= 7 Garter Guards   Events NY Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck - October 21 & 22, 2023 Indie Untangled: Friday October 20 from 10a-4p in Saugerties. Tickets for 1, 2:30p and 4p still available.   Cakepalooza: Friday October 20 from 10a-5p in Saugerties. Tickets for the 2p & 4p entries are still available Wool & Folk: Friday October 20 from 12-7p in Stoneridge, NY Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)   Ask Me Anything Anita asked about: Ideas for color schemes for yarn choices- how to use variegated yarns to help blend different color schemes. Shelly asked: "Do you have any tips or tricks on how to calculate the yards used in a project?" Tip: Check Ravelry Project Pages & check the "All Helpful Projects" filter. Here's the Ravelry link for helpful projects for this pattern. THis particular Ravelry project gives the cast on stitches and number of rows and says she 1 50g skein would have been enough "if I did a 40 round leg (ran out of the first skein when I had 10 rounds left on the foot of the second sock)."   On a Happy Note Dinner with Gayle, Joanie, Mom and Dad. Gave Joanie gifts from Sedona and Gayle some new socks. Old Dominion- took girls to arcade after then got a drink and something to eat with Jeff & Melissa Brunch. Singing in the car with the girls. Garret's hockey game Apple picking! Bisque! Cider donuts! Thanks to Patrons who talked about The Vow on HBO. Dan and I are fully hooked. Pumpkin coffee: usually I have a few cups a year and I'm good, but this year its growing on me. They have a great one at the coffee shop at work, Marylous, and I even bought a container from Trader Joe's that I enjoyed some of this week. Cooler temps- they hit us fast this year. We went from hot and muggy to mornings that are 55 and crisp and days in the 60's. I'm loving pulling on wool socks and a wool sweater to stave off the chill.   Quote of the Week   Since time is the one immaterial object which we cannot influence—neither speed up nor slow down, add to nor diminish—it is an imponderably valuable gift. –Maya Angelou   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 262 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair KAL News Events Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Stitched by Jessalu, Bella Fio & Mandis Makings   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wild Air Farm Spinning I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens) Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Ravelry Project Page Skein 1: 60" loop. 94 wraps= 5640 inches/156 yards. 92g Skein 2: 59" loop. 95 wraps= 5605 inches/155 yards. 96g Skein 3: 60" loop. 116 wraps= 6960 inches/193 yards. 96 g Total: 284 grams- 504 yards/ 460.9 meters Meters for Stash Dash= 4x 460.9 (for a 3 ply)= 1843.6 meters   My total for Stash Dash 2023= 22,908.44 You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet.   Petrichor Socks Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page I used 74 grams of yarn.   Shock Star Hat #2 Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) Pattern: none Ravelry Project Page 92 sts. 2x2 rib with the US 5 needles. Switched to US 7 needles after the brim. I was running out of yarn as I got close to the crown so I striped in 3 rounds of neon coral and neon blue with the Shock Star color in between. 52g of yarn used.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Bedside Pocket Pattern: None Yarn: Kindful Yarn, Swish DK, Kenzie Yarn, Cape Cod Yarn Co Hook: 6.5 mm (K) Ravelry Project Page I started this project on 9/4. 75 sts across. Single crochet. First section- Kindful yarn with Swish DK in Mimic Second section- Kenzie Yarn with Cape Cod Yarn Co   My Little Unicorn Socks Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Past the cuff of the second sock (not the heel as I mentioned last time).   Space Daddy Socks Yarn: Fan Girl Fibers Fingering in the Space Daddy Colorway (80% Superwash Merino, 20% Nylon) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway- blues with pink, neon yellow, purple. I bought this yarn at the Yarncentric event before the Maryland Sheep & Wool festival this year. I bought it with my friend Laura in mind. During her last visit, I asked her to pick out new yarn for socks. She picked out three skeins and decided this should be #1. Progress: I'm in a couple inches beyond the first cuff. Don't forget, Fan Girl Fibers is a Pro Shop sponsor. This project is living in a wedge bag from Snack Shack Sponsor Stitched by Jessalu.   Let the Mystery Unravel 2023 Blanket of Calm Pattern: Blanket of Calm by Casapinka (free crochet pattern) Yarn: Woolen Women Fibers- Let the Mystery Unravel subscription Hook: 3.25 mm (D) Ravelry Project Page Progress: 9 squares for September complete. I'm planning to buy a neutral sock yarn to seam and border them with. Each month's 3x3 square will have a border around it and then be seamed with the other 11 for the year. You can find my September 2023 Let the Mystery Unravel Unboxing Video on YouTube. This subscription is not available to new subscribers but I hope you'll watch each month and see how my blanket comes along. Stay tuned to Woolen Women for all of the fun kits they have! Don't forget, they're Pro Shop Sponsors.   Strathcona Sweater Pattern: Strathacona Sweater by Tara-Lynn Morrison ($6.50 knitting pattern available on Ravelry or on the Good Night, Day website) Yarn: 3 yarns 1) handspun, 2) Lion Brand Fisherman's Wool in the Birch Tweed Colorway 3) Aisling Yarns BFL in the Hurry Sundown Colorway Needles: US 13 (9.0 mm) (neck), US 19 (15 mm) (body) I'm knitting Size S/M (pattern offers sizing from 38"- 53" bust) Ravelry Project Page   Drawn Together Cowl Pattern: Drawn Together by Shana Cohen ($7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & Payhip) Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) and a 3.75 mm (F) crochet hook for the provisional cast on Yarn: neon coral DK yarn (lost ball band; believe its from Spun Right Round) Provisional cast on using this Purl Soho video. I flew through the rolled top, ripped out provisional cast on and joined it together on the train which, I must say made me feel like a wizard!   Brainstorming   Patterns from our Pigskin Bundle on Ravelry   Wear it with Pride Hat by Cori Eichelberger ($10 pattern available on Ravelry. Proceeds go to the Trevor Project. There is a coupon code available if you want/need to pay less). It uses worsted weight self striping with a contrast color and corrugated ribbing to create a nice pattern. Easy Striped Men's Beanie by Lena Mathisson ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry). Worsted weight, striped beanie. Shave Ice Beanie (worsted weight garter stitch hat) by @hookmountainhandmade- $5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.⁣⁣ Gandy Dancer Mitts (star stitch textured mittens) by @chitchatknits ⁣$4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry (great for variegated or tonals) Lucky Break (garter shawl using minis where you bind off/cast back on to create large eyelets) by @paperdaisycreations $7 knitting pattern available on Ravelry.   From the Armchair Verity by Colleen Hoover. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   KAL News Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Playoff Prediction starts 9/6. Who will win the Super Bowl? Submit your guess by 9/20. Find all the details in this thread. Thanks Nicole for the idea! Official Sponsors of the Quarter: There will be a special point-earning challenge issued for this "Quarter"- Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan.  We won't reveal all of the challenges ahead of time, but you will find out about them in the days leading up to that month. You can assume, correctly, that you will get more points for using products from that Official Sponsor.  October: Paper Daisy Creations November: Bella Fio December: Mandi's Makings January: Lolodidit Welcome aboard to our 2 Commentators- Mary (Maryklute) and Kristen (Kips206)! THis episode I shared Mary's first report. Pigskin started with a bang! Over 1000 posts before the Sunday football games even started!  One topic of the chatter has been that it has been so chatty, with lots of folks offering the advice to just jump in and not worry about what you missed! People are all over the place in terms of projects. 38 people already had points on the board by midday Sunday! 16 of those people got points for drafting other players! Erica -- Esalaza has already completed two projects that used over 600 yards each!  She's been making crochet scrap yarn baskets that are super cute! You can find her Ravelry Project Pages here & here (both are Ravelry links)   There's lots of chatter in the team threads as people complete the Tailgate Talk challenge.  Some folks (like me” are working on finishing up pre-PSP WIPs  There's still plenty of time to play so no worries if you haven't even cast on a PSP eligible project yet. To quote imaginedlandscapes, “This knitalong is definitely a marathon and not a sprint.”   Events Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds NY Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck - October 21 & 22, 2023 Indie Untangled: Friday October 20 from 10a-4p in Saugerties. Tickets for 1, 2:30p and 4p still available.   Cakepalooza: Friday October 20 from 10a-5p in Saugerties. Tickets for the 2p & 4p entries are still available Wool & Folk: Friday October 20 from 12-7p in Stoneridge, NY Fiber Festival of New England: November 4 & 5 in West Springfield, MA Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)   Ask Me Anything Shana asked to hear about "Savers!" Rachel asked for a wildlife update. Anita asked "Ideas for getting ready for the holidays- decorations and gifts. Check out links to some of the things I discussed: Decor Christmas Balls Ornament Set- knitting pattern by Amy Gaines. $4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry. Triangle Santa Ornament- free knitting pattern available on this blog. Sarah's (of Imagined Landscapes) gnomes I've crocheted triangles and seamed together, put stuffing in between and attached to a twig glued to a ring of wood as the base to make a tree- similar to this Pin. You could do the same thing with knitted fabric. Crochet star ornaments (could also be used as garland). I used cream sparkle yarn and used mod podge stiffener on them. Knitted Christmas garland ideas can be found here. Gifts Heart Garland (crochet) free pattern from Skip to my Lou (great to get ready for Valentine's Day- I also printed small photos & gifted them with mini clothespins from craft store) Nanaimo Cardigan by Tara-Lynn Morrison Moonrise Necklace by Sivia Harding. You can find my Ravelry Project Page here. DK weight socks Baskets- there are tons of patterns for crochet baskets. Useful + cute! You could use them as the container for other gifts too. Cup cozy (great to pair with a gift certificate to your favorite local coffee place) Fingerless mitts. Sizing is easier to guess on, aim for a ribbed pattern if you're really unsure about sizing. Toys!   On a Happy Note Labor Day weekend fun. Laura was in visiting from NY. Friday we scored big at the local second hand shops. We had an epic pool day at my parents' on Saturday. Sunday we hit the local dairy for ice cream with the girls then went to Megg's for dinner before seeing a Queen Cover Band at night. Pigskin Kick Off & getting to spend so much time with you. The New York Times Games App: Wordle, Spelling Bee, Connections, Daily Mini are my favorites Decorating for fall! I scored a Luke's Diner tee from the clearance section at Target after Aila suggested it. Stretching & Theragunning on a regular basis now that Liz and I text to check in on each other. Liz took a picture of Millie's creepy baby doll which I later found on my phone and laughed myself silly over. Then Riley found the photo and made it one of my scrolling background/screensaver photos! Hijinx for the win!   Quote of the Week   Each of us is born with a box of matches inside us but we can't strike them all by ourselves. –LAURA ESQUIVEL   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 261 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.    This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors:     Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Sweet Liberty  Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Sweet Liberty Colorway (July 2023 Yarnable Colorway) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Check out my July 2023 Yarnable Unboxing Video Get $5 off with coupon code BOSTONJEN using my Affiliate Link 272 meters for Stash Dash   Summer Scrappy Helical Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps Ravelry Project Page (started in May, finished in August) In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate's Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here. 272 meters for Stash Dash   Liz's Water Bottle Holder Yarn: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton (85% Cotton, 15% Polyester) Hook: F (3.75 mm) Pattern: None Ravelry Project Page From Amazon, I ordered Black Buckles to allow for adjusting the length of the strap. My friend Liz was walking around sightseeing on a recent trip to St. Louis and mentioned she may need a water bottle holder like the one I made for Hattie (Ravelry Project Page). 169.2 meters for Stash Dash   Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Hook: F (3.75 mm) Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn Ravelry Project Page I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post 4 rounds per hexagon. 3.75 inches each. Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop. Final blanket- 15x22 hexagons with 5 rounds of single crochet for the border. 62x80 inches (twin size- 60x80 inches) Finished blanket- 11,392 meters   Stash Dash total on the morning of 8/31/23= 21,064 meters (before counting my last spinning project).   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Wild Air Farm Spinning I am spinning a 4 oz braid of Polwarth/Silk (85/15) from Jakira Farms to ply with Wild Air Farm Shetland & Pygora- Melody & Cadence (dyed in blues and greens) Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Ravelry Project Page Progress: morning of 8/31- spinning is complete. Plying will be done this afternoon, but I can't measure the finished yarn until it is washed and dried.   My Little Unicorn Socks Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one. Progress: Past the heel of the second sock   Petrichor Socks Yarn: Oink Pigments Targhee Sock in the Petrichor Colorway (90% Targhee, 10% Nylon) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Past the heel of the second sock   Brainstorming   Mom's Rhinebeck Sweater. Yarn from Sweitzer's Fiber Mill from Maryland Sheep & Wool 2023. My gauge swatch in progress. I started with US 8s, then did a purl bump row and switched to US 9s. Please send your suggestions of relatively simple cardigan pattern for worsted/aran weight yarn. Socks with Pigskin Sponsor Yarn   From the Armchair   True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. And Then She Kissed Me by Harper Bliss. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Knitting in Passing   Liz, Riley and I went to the Marshfield Fair. We spent a good bit of time inside the exhibition building looking at flower arrangements, plants and other crafty items that were given awards. Lots of knitting and crochet projects as well as quilts. While the plants and things were really accessible on tables, it was nice to see that the fiber crafts were behind a low railing so you couldn't touch anything.   KAL News   Pigskin Party '23 #DCSPigskinParty23 Official Rules Find everything you need on my website or in the Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Register using this Google Form (you must be Registered to be eligible for prizes) Enter your projects using the Point Tally Form Find the full list of Sponsors in this Google Doc. Coupon Codes are listed in this Google Doc & in this Ravelry Thread Exclusive Items from our Pro Shop Sponsors are listed in this Ravelry Thread Questions-  ask them in this Ravelry Thread or email Jen at downcellarstudio @ gmail.com Teams will be announced on 9/1. Stay tuned to the Ravelry group and look for the "find your teams" thread. Tailgate Talk Challenge (September 7-21. Enter for points by September 30). Check out the details in this Google Doc or in this Ravelry Thread. Virtual Kick Off Weekend Thursday night for Patrons only. Patrons of every level will be invited to join. For the rest of the seaon, only those at the $5/month level and up are invited to our monthly hangouts. Friday September 8 &  Saturday September 9th, events will be open to ALL. Check out the full schedule here. Crowd Sourcing: Do you have ideas for challenges or events for this season? Share your ideas in this Ravelry Thread. Does anyone want to be a correspondent and report in before each episode with some key stats or highlights from the games, interesting post or projects?  Email me or DM me on Instagram if you're interested.   On a Happy Note Beach walk and dinner w/ Megg & Kris. Breakfast with Mom & two of her Infusion nurses we've known for years. Marshfield Fair with Liz and Riley. We watched part of the demolition derby, played some games and listened to music. Dan and I went Kayaking with Megg, Oisin, Hattie and Will, then got food from the Hingham Lobster Pound and chilled at the Rowan's. We celebrated my grandmother's 89th birthday with a fun brunch at The Friendly Toast I went to see Oppenheimer at the movies with Liz.  Then to see Barbie (for the second time) with Liz and our Mom's who hadn't seen it yet. We met early for a drink, all wearing our pink. They loved the movie. Dinner the night before Eme left for school then Megg and I brought them out to Simon's Rock for their 3rd year. It was a long day- 6 hours of driving + unpacking, organizing, a late lunch and snacks in the car singing all the way home. Riley found "Make Dolly Proud" tees while shopping w/ a friend and I sent her money to get them for us. She's making WWDD bracelets for us too! 5 of the nieces and nephews started school + Gabriella started pre-school so far. FaceTimed with Riley and Gabriella & Zach    Quote of the Week   "Most people fail in life not because they aim too high and miss, but because they aim too low and hit." ― Les Brown   ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.    

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 259 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later Crafty Adventures KAL News Events Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Enchanted Etchings   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Shock Star Hat Yarn: Spun Right Round Squish DK in the Shock Star colorway Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm) Pattern: none Ravelry Project Page About the yarn: cream base with small bits of neons + black. 92 sts 130.5 meters for Stash Dash   Watermelon cozies Pattern: Ball Band (free pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts) & Ball Band with a Twist ($2 crochet pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts)  by Jennifer Lassonde Yarns: Loops & Threads Capri Eco Cotton in Colorway: Cranberry. Loops & Threads Everyday Cotton in Jade. Leftover scrubby yarn for lighter green Hooks: 3.75 mm (F) & 4.25 mm (G) Ravelry Project Page Inspiration- Ali (starryeyesali) posted a watermelon bowl she made with leftover yarn on Instagram Small Jar cozy (16 oz wide mouth Mason jars). All sc (like the original ball band pattern). 7 rounds of Jade, 2 rounds of light green, 9 rounds of red. Black "seeds" sewn in later. Large Jar cozy (24 oz wide mouth Mason jars)- following Ball Band with a Twist instructions. 6 rounds of bottom section in Jade. 2 rounds of light green and the rest in Red. Black "seeds" sewn in later. Large Jar cozy #2  (24 oz wide mouth Mason jars)-  rounds of Jade, 2 rounds of light green,  rest was done in red. Black "seeds" sewn in later. 156.4 meters for Stash Dash   Woolens and Nosh Socks Yarn: Woolens & Nosh Targee Socks- 2022 Advent Calendar Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 20g mini in dark purple; used for cuff and heel. 285.8 meters for Stash Dash   Zebra Stripes Socks   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 273.6 meters for Stash Dash   Children of Time Spinning Fiber: Into the Whirled Cheviot (4 oz) in the Children of Time colorway Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Ravelry Project Page 1 ply of Wool of the Andes in 2 colors of blue + 2 plies of Into the Whirled Skein 1= 94g. 116.91 yards or 106.9 meters Skein 2= 82g  120.3 yards, 110 meters Total meters of yarn 216.9 For Stash Dash= 4 x 216.9 = 867.6 meters   Purple Spring Spin Fiber: Fluffypuf #130 Hand Dyed Roving Batt Purple/Pink. 1.4 ounces. 50% BFL, 40% merino, 10% Tussah Silk. Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Ravelry Project Page 2 skeins of finished yarn with Fluffypuf & Kingdom Fleece & Fiber Works Skein 1- 66g. 80.97 yards or 74.04 meters Skein 2= 66g. 79.44 yards or 72.64 meters Total Meters= 146.68 I still had singles left of the Kingdom Fleece & Fiberworks fiber, so I plied that with some mystery purple singles. Skein 3: 28g. 54.44 yards or 49.78 meters Meters for Stash Dash- 49.78 x 4= 199.12 Total Meters for Stash Dash for all 3 skeins = 795.84   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Hook: F (3.75 mm) Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn Ravelry Project Page I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post 4 rounds per hexagon. 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300 Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374. Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop. As of 7/25/23- 51' wide by 58" long. (13 x 17 hexis)   Silver Spoon Socks Yarn: A Whimsical Wood Yarn Company Pixie Toes Socks in the Silver Spoon Up My A$$ colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Progress: on the foot of the first sock.   3 Christmas Stockings   Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: I have 3 of the 4 front/back panels I need for the frist 2 done. The forth is onto the leg. I am going to crochet up 2 more and then iron them, and start seaming them.   Rainbow Crochet Crop Pattern: 100% improvised. Yarn: Lion Brand Re-up. Colors: Ecru, Red, Orange, Sunflower, Lime, Aqua, Lilac and Raspberry Hook: E (3.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Wide, oversized crochet top that I completely improvised on the go. Thought I'd do all granny squares but didn't think I'd have enough yarn. Originally finished in June 2022, but it was too short and I only wore it once. Had hdc rows in rainbow colors at the bottom. Ripped all of that back and instead of doing 1 round of each color, I did 2. Extending beyond blue to include purple and pink.   My Little Unicorn Socks Yarn: Andre Sue Knits Sock Blank in the My Little Unicorn colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Ravelry Project Page Gray background with white and pink unicorns that look like My Little Pony. My inner 80's child loved this one.   From the Armchair The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Recommended by Dan's cousin Melissa Just the Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Some Years Later Mom sent 2 socks to be repaired. Her Knit Picks Felici Zen Socks had a hole in the foot. It was easy to repair with a bit of yarn. I washed them and they're ready to give back. I only finished these in May 2022, right before Mother's Day so these haven't held up very well. Click here for my Ravelry Project Page. I also did a blanket repair on a knitted blanket a friend's mother asked me to fix. I was assuming it was crochet, so the fact that it was knitted was a surprise. The section that was torn was part of a very long strip of knitting that was knit on the bias, so it was a little tricky but it was in garter stitch and I did a good job of pulling the stitches back up. Its not 100% invisible, but I'm happy with it. I have it washed and ready to return.   Crafty Adventures   Resin adventures with Gayle & Meagan for their Bucket List with a Twist. They made us aprons to wear while working that Bucket List with a Twist!   KAL News   Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023 Sign up using this Google Form. To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. Click here for the full list of Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media. Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread. Tune in to hear if you won a participation prize. End of the event winners will be announced in Episode 260   Events   Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord My total as of this episode: 8,140 meters You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet. Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website Runs May 29- September 4, 2023 #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast May 26-September 4, 2023 Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel. Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group 5/26- 8/31/2023 Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206)   Life in Focus After 3+ years I got Covid. Mom's July MRI & CT Scans show that the cancer has not grown/changed! Great news!   Ask Me Anything Tune in to hear my answers to these questions: AnnahB wants to know how many UFOs I have. (12 somewhat active + hibernations) MaysMomNH- How your Mom is doing. Elisa.Knits- How you pick yarn for sweaters and cardis please. Nali_Knits- what motivates you to keep knitting/podcasting after so many years? KGZKnits- Can we watch instead? Red-Christina- trying to knit men's cardigan for my grandpa- any suggestions? Classic Cardigan by Tin Can Knits. $8 knitting pattern on Ravelry or Tin Can Knits website. Slade by Michelle Wang (for Brooklyn Tweed). $10 pattern available on Ravelry; $9 on Brooklyn Tweed Website. Reading Cardigan by Jared Flood. $16 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & for $15 on Brooklyn Tweed website) DogMomKnits- Fall Knitting Plans- Pigskin Party (if there will be one) info? There will be a Pigskin Party. I'll be planning it very soon!   On a Happy Note After a day of resin crafts and pool time, Mom, Dad, Gayle, Meagan, Liz and I headed out for ice cream and then back for 2 round Tock match (Meagan & I won one, Gayle & Liz won one). I went to Minute Clinic to confirm I had Covid, but mostly to see if I also had strep throat, and was treated by my childhood bestie, Maribeth! Grateful for my own craft room with a comfy chair in a cool part of the house. Perfect for isolating and making sure Dan didn't get sick. I did go outside a bit on the weekend days. Dan brought up my wheel. I still spent a lot of time lying down between projects but it was nice to get out. I missed our nephew's 16th birthday pool party, though, so that was a bummer. Jeff was able to get an extra ticket for me to join he and Riley to see Lainey Wilson at the Mohegan Sun casino on Friday night! We had dinner, loved the show, got a cool Watermelon Moonshine Stanley Tumbler, and then I slept over at their house. Hung out with Riley & Millie in the morning, singing Hamilton as Riley made us homemade waffles.   Quote of the Week   The great thing in this world is not so much where we stand as in what direction we are moving. –OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES, SR ------   Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 257 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later In my Travels KAL News Events Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns, Bella Fio, Woolen Women Thanks to Mom for joining me for part of this episode! Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Cushion Bags Pattern: none Yarn: Lion Brand Re-Up & Other Dish Cloth Cotton Hook: F (3.75 mm) I made 2 cushion covers for Mom because the bags for her inflatable seat cushions were too small to easily fit back into. Ravelry Project Page- Cushion 1: green and aqua Ravelry Project Page- Cushion 2 : black and aqua 155 meters for Stash Dash (in the 2 projects) 2021 Scrappy Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022) In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate's Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here. 228 meters for Stash Dash In a Fog Mittens Pattern: In a Fog by Allison O'Mahony ($5.50 US knitting pattern available on Ravelry & the designer's website) Needles: US 4 (3.5mm) & US 6 (4.0mm) Yarn: MC: Spun Right Round (multi color) CC: Fibre Seed Costa Laurel worsted yarn in Colorway CL014 (gray) Size: Medium (3 sizes available) Ravelry Project Page 161 meters for Stash Dash Curiouser & Curiouser Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn:  Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes in the Curiouser & Curiouser Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page These count for the #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal Will weigh these socks when I get home from Phoenix On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Summer Rainbow Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn:  Desert Vista Dyeworks Viso base in the Summer Rainbow Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: Almost to the heel of sock #2 Zebra Stripes Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Zebra Stripes Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page About the colorway: Progress: Finished most of the first sock Chevron Scrap Blanket Pattern: Chevron Scrap Blanket by Maria's Blue Crayon (free crochet pattern) available on Ravelry & the Maria's Blue Crayon Website. This pattern presumes you already know the c2c crochet technique. Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in White & Tranquil (light green), Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink and Loops & Threads Snuggly Wuggly Big! in colorway Soft Lilac Hook: J (6.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page (I crocheted one of these in summer 2020- click here for that Ravelry Project Page) For help learning the Corner to Corner Crochet method you could check out this free Ravelry Download from Lauri Bolland or this video tutorial from Lion Brand on YouTube. Each section is 11 squares tall. Green, white, pink, white, purple, white. Progress: 5 strips finished. 1 more started. Once finished, I need to seam them together & debating a border. From the Armchair Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Some Years Later Cozy Classic Raglan Pattern: Cozy Classic Raglan by Jessie Maed Designs Needles: US 3 for Ribbing. US 7 for body Yarn: Rowan Cashsoft DK in color 547 Sunny Knitting Size Medium.  Finished in May 2020 I never loved the way it fits me. Riley recently wore it during sleepover, so I let her take it home. She sent me a fit check wearing it with white jean cut offs, a slick hairdo and some poppin lips! Looking gorgeous. Makes me even happier than the meters that helped me kick Jasmin's butt in 2020! In My Travels Mom and I are recording from Phoenix, Arizona at the List Perfectly Camp Listing Party Event. Mom & I gave a presentation on the Fearless Living Fund where we've already raised over $1600!  You can donate to the Fearless Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada on Venmo. KAL News Splash Pad Party 23: May 26-July 31, 2023 Sign up using this Google Form. To confirm you're signed up, check the Stats/Registration Spreadsheet here. Click here for the full list of Sponsors with all the links you need to their websites & social media. Many of our Sponsors are offering coupon codes. Find them here- Google Doc or Ravelry Thread. Events Stash Dash, hosted by Leslie & Laura of the Knit Girllls Video Podcast starts May 26th and runs through August 31, 2023. Check out details in the knit girllls discord My total as of this episode: 1,619 meters (plus socks I haven't been able to weigh) You can check out my Stash Dash 2023 Progress on this Google Sheet. Legacy Fiber Artz Knit Your Stash MAL- check out the details on the Treehouse Fiber Arts website Runs May 29- September 4, 2023 #legacyfiberartzknityourstashMal and #flashyourstash Crafty Bingo- Craft Cook Read Repeat Podcast May 26-September 4, 2023 Grab the Bingo card over on their Instagram feed The Grocery Girls are hosting Hot Granny Square Summer MAL. Check out details in their Ravelry Group & in Episode 183 on their YouTube Channel. Summer Sock Camp hosted in the Crazy Sock Lady Ravelry Group 5/26- 8/31/2023 Maine Fiber Frolic: June 3-4th at the Windsor Fairgrounds Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds Check out some West Coast (US) Events on the Seattle Knitters Guild site (thanks Kristen- kips206) Life in Focus It's been a tough couple weeks with Mom having a bad reaction to her normal infusion, then Dan's mother, Marilyn passed away on June 25th. On a Happy Note Our nephew Oisin turned 15 and we enjoyed his taco truck birthday party. That same weekend, we had 3 kiddos in a dance recital, and our niece Aila was in Beauty & the Beast as Maurice that night. Mom, Riley, Millie and I grabbed dinner (and for the adults a cold beer) in between! We enjoyed Father's Day with my dad and gave him custom corn hole boards and bags! Mom, Riley and I got VIP tickets to Kane Brown at Fenway Park. We wore matching tees Mom bought for us. Not one but 2 bucks in our driveway at the same time. Stayed long enough for me to bring Dan back. Fireflies are out! I got to show our friend Liz when she came for dinner. I got to go into the ORs for the first time, after working at MGH for nearly 21 years. Quote of the Week One's life begins on so many occasions, constructing itself out of accident derived from coincidence compounded by character.–DONALD HALL —— Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

DraftKings will typically post First 5 Team Totals by 11:45p EST (BetOnline is one of the first to post offshore) Today's Bets: Red Sox Under 1.5 (+100), Tigers Under 1.5 (-115), Royals Under 1.5 (+100), Cubs Under 1.5 (+115) Twitter: Red Sox Under 1.5 (+110)MLB:Newsletter: 45-35 (56.3%) - up $156.67Podcast First 5: 137-119 (53.5%) - up $79.69Twitter: 25-37 (40.3%) - down $321.92Starting Bankroll: $1,000Yesterday: Lost $61.00Current Bankroll: $914.44YTD Bets: 402Winning Days: 33Losing Days: 31Push Days: 0 |   |  | Odds | Risk | Result | P/LMLB | Pirates | Under 1.5 | 115 |  $20.00  | LOSS |  $(20.00)MLB | A's | Under 1.5 | -130 |  $20.00  | LOSS |  $(20.00)MLB | Guardians | Under 1.5 | -125 |  $20.00  | WIN  |  $16.00 MLB | Braves | Under 1.5 | 115 |  $20.00  | LOSS |  $(20.00)T | A's | Under 1.5 | -140 |  $20.00  | LOSS |  $(20.00)NEWS | Pirates | Under 1.5 | 115 |  $20.00  | LOSS |  $(20.00)NEWS | Rays | F5 -0.5 | 115 |  $20.00  | WIN  |  $23.00 Total |  |  |  |  |   |  $(61.00) YTD Podcast Performance BE - Active:NoneStarting Bankroll: $1,000Yesterday: N/ACurrent Bankroll: $1,179.33YTD Bets: 705Winning Days: 48Losing Days: 34Push Days: 6Podcast Accomplishments:NFL Football: Hit 60.2% in the 2022 NFL Regular SeasonLongest Winning Streak: 7 days (March 21, 2022-March 27, 2022)NFL Prop Bets: 62.8% in 2021NFL Football: 57.7% winning over 100 bets in 2021MLB Baseball Team Totals: 213-159, 57.2%, won 44.37 unitsSupport the showWant to support the show for $5/month & get a daily picks newsletter? https://www.buzzsprout.com/1836761/supportBettorEdge, Peer to peer sports betting with NO JUICE! Click the link for a risk free $20, no deposit required. BettorEdge.com/playmePrizePicks Link:https://app.prizepicks.com/sign-up?invite_code=PLAYMEPROMO CODE: PLAYME for a 100% match up to $100Sports Handicapping - What is a good winning percentage when betting on sports? http://professionalgambler.org/winning-percentagesContact Me: Twitter: @MrActionJunkie1 Email: mractionjunkie@gmail.comFollow me on BettorEdge: @mractionjunkie2023 Accountability Tracker: 73/365 days (I love food, I can't stop eating but I will exercise in 2023)Inspired by: https://www.tampabay.com/health/medical-news/need-weight-loss-inspiration-walk-bayshore-with-a-man-who-is-pushing-3200-days-in-a-row-20190111/

On episode 25 of the Adulting with Horses podcast, Heather and Natalie discuss what they look for in a trainer- the difference in education, cookie cutter barns, and expectations for finding a unicorn to teach them how to progress in their horsemanship. What do you look for in a trainer or riding instructor? Has that changed over the years? Chapter markers:1:00 - Intro Chat, Heather and Natalie catch up over recent events in their lives. 19:28 - What is an ideal trainer and do they exist? 58:19 - Adulting Wins of the Week Thank you for being a little weird with us, horse girl! If you like what you hear make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your player of choice, join our Adulting with Horses Clubhouse on Facebook where you can become part of the show! Also, it's a great place to meet other horse crazy women. Thanks and see you next time! If you like what you hear but want a little more, become a Patreon member for extra bonus episodes and more! https://www.patreon.com/AdultingWithHorsesPodcast

    Thank you for tuning in to Episode 250 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbin On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Crafty Adventures Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week   Thank you to this episode's sponsor: The Yarn Sellar and be sure to check out their annual Fiber Marketplace Saturday April 1 2023, 10-3 pm  at the Union Bluff in York Beach,Maine.   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Hattie's Ice Cream Pattern: Ice Cream Cone by Shannon Holding. Free Crochet Pattern available on the LoopholeFox website & on Ravelry Hook: C (2.75) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in Cotton Candy (pink), Blush (pink), White. Loops & Threads Impeccable in Soft Taupe (cone) 2 scoops of ice cream (instructions include option for 3 scoops). 1st scoop is pink, 2nd scoop is white. Pink and purple sprinkles Ravelry Project Page   Hattie's Cupcake Pattern: Cupcake by Stitch11. Free crochet pattern available on this website & on Ravelry. Hook: C (2.75) Yarn: Knit Picks Brava in White. Loops & Threads Impeccable in Soft Taupe (cake), Big Twist Twinkle in Gray (wrapper) Silver sparkle yarn for cupcake wrapper, taupe for cupcake, white frosting with pink and purple sprinkles to match ice cream. Ravelry Project Page   On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Hook: F (3.75 mm) Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn Ravelry Project Page I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post 4 rounds per hexagon. 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300 Twin sized blanket is 60x80 inches. 17x22 hexis- 374. Over 160 full hexagons done now. I washed all of my finished hexis (that already had ends woven in), in the washing machine on delicate inside a lingerie bag. The lingerie bag is important because with small pieces, you can lose pieces into your machine and cause problems. Results: 5 of them came apart at the join on the final round. No bleeding or fading. No shrinking. I'm glad I did this so I could get the bad ones out of the mix before I seam them. Learned double magic circle from this YouTube video. The trick is to know how to pull both loops to tighten the loop.   Ninja Turtle Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 56 stitches. Cuff Down. About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green. Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022. Progress: Sock #1 is beyond the heel.   Own Two Feet Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 56 stitches. Cuff Down. About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray Progress: Just finished the heel of the second sock.   Benjamin's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Progress: finished green panel. Almost done w/ the red.   Grammy's 2nd Jean Marie Shawl Pattern: Jean Marie by Jennifer Lassonde ($6 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & LoveCrafts). Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm) Yarn: Plymouth Yarn DK Merino Superwash in Black, Light Gray and White (2 skeins each) Ravelry Project Page Just finished Section 2 of 3.   Brainstorming   I charted out elongated shawl design idea which feels really good.   From the Armchair   Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Modern Loss: Candid Conversations about Grief. Beginners Welcome. by Rebecca Soffer and Gabrielle Birkner. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Part of your World by Abby Jimenez. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.   Crafty Adventures I finished my January-June Covid Photo Book/Scrapbook that I made in Shutterfly and ordered it! I started working on second half of the year. I have notes about each day of the year that I'm mostly copying/pasting into Shutterfly and adding photos from Google Photos which makes it easier. So grateful I journaled during 2020 as it will likely end up being one of the wildest year of our lives.   Knitting in Passing Riley texted me that she's ready for her next knitting project. We purchased some Goosey Fibers yarn at Yarn's End during the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul so she can knit the Riley Rose Cowl, which, yes, is named after her. You can find my pattern on Ravelry & LoveCrafts.   In My Travels Mom, Millie & I went to Russell's Garden Center for Farm Fiber Days Event. Blue Heron Farm set-up table for people to learn Needle Felting. Millie made a butterfly and then a bunny. We purchased a needle felting kit from them. Later Mom found cookie cutters. Millie got lots of snuggle time with 2 French Angora Rabbits that she wants to convince her dad to adopt. Thank you, Jessica. I purchased two batts of Shetland from Wild Air Farm in Bolton, MA. I also chose 3 minis from Sassy Black Yarns. Millie chose a skein of Making Tracks from Junction Fiber Mill Our marled variegated 2 ply yarn. Hand-dyed in small limited-edition batches. Made with 100% American wool.   KAL News I emailed all Grand Prize Winners and the sponsors who donated their prizes. Check your email if you haven't already. Splash Pad preliminary prep underway   Events Knit for Food Knit-a-thon 2023 Event: a Fundraiser for Feeding America, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry and Meals on Wheels organized by Laura Nelkin is happening on March 26, 2023 Saturday April 1 from 10a-3p: The Yarn Seller's 10th Annual Fiber Marketplace in York, Maine. Click here for details. Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details. Connecticut Sheep & Wool: April 29, 2023 at the North Haven Fairgrounds. Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds Mom & I are planning to attend Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds   On a Happy Note Getting more minis from Nicole in the mail! Met up with my friend Gary from college for coffee while he was in Boston. Hattie's first ever birthday sleepover for her 5th Birthday. I picked her up and then we picked up Millie, at Hattie's request. We had a low key night at home, and went to the Children's Museum the next morning. Hattie was overtired, so we drove her home and then Millie and I met up with my parents to head back into Boston for Riley's dance competition. Mom, Dad, Jeff, Millie, Garret and I all went to an early dinner between her performances. Monday night at a local Irish pub listening to live music for Megg's birthday. Last Saturday, Megg dropped off Oisín to work with Dan, and we all had breakfast before Megg and I went off for a hike. We got back to the car just as the rain started. Millie's Bucket List with a Twist item was to ride horses with Grammy in the snow. It nearly snowed on Saturday May 11, but it was too warm. Thankfully, the rain stopped while we were inside the barn at Nancy & Roger's house, meeting the animals. Our friend Terri is friends with Nancy and Roger who kindly and enthusiastically agreed to help make Millie check off her bucket list item. We met all of the animals, most of whom were rescued. They have a very silly goat, some miniature horses (Goliath, Delilah & Princess Buttercup), 2 Gypsy Vanners (Zoe & her mother Dulcie) and another large horse, Scooter. Mom and I each rode Zoe and Millie rode Dulcie. Garret's 13th birthday sleepover. We went to Altitude to jump on the trampolines, to Panera for dinner and then he taught me how to edit videos using the CapCut app.   Quote of the Week   In our concern for others, we worry less about ourselves. When we worry less about ourselves an experience of our own suffering is less intense.   –DALAI LAMA   ------ Thank you for tuning in!   Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -"Soft Orange Glow" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.  

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 249 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes and photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: The Yarn Sellar The Yarn Sellar is hosting the annual Fiber Marketplace Saturday April 1 2023, from 10-3 pm at the Union Bluff in York Beach Maine. Local vendors will be selling hand dyed yarns, roving, buttons, bags, and  notions. $5 gets you in the door, a 15% off coupon to The Yarn Sellar and a chance to win prizes. Grab your fiber friends and make it a fun filled weekend! Make room reservation by calling 207-363-1333 and visit www.Yarnsellar.com for details. Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Cloudy Rainbow Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Yarn Cafe Creations Biscotti Yarn (85% SW Merino/15% Nylon 4 ply) in the Thestrals Colorway (gray with blips of rainbow colors Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Cast on 60 stitches and worked 1/1 rib for 14 rounds. Knit about 2 inches and then reduced to 56 stitches (decreases like a toe- done at the beginning and end of each half of the sock). The leg is 10.25 inches before the heel flap. My friend Jen from JLsCreativeShop on Etsy sent me new, laser cut bamboo stitch markers that I started using with this project! They each have a knitting related thing on them. Lightweight, easy to take on and off. $14.99 for set of 5. Get 10% off her shop with code BOSTONJEN. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mini Skein Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Hook: F (3.75 mm) Yarn: Mini skeins from 2022 agirlandherwool Advent Calendar, 24 Days of Cheer Swap minis + other scraps/swap yarn Ravelry Project Page I've been closing the end of each hexagon with this join- link to Instagram post 4 rounds per hexagon. 142 hexagons done as of now. 5 half hexagons. 3 pointy ones. 3.75 inches each. Likely need over 300 Twin sized blanket is 60×80 inches. 17×22 hexis- 374. Natalie, Knitty Natty, shared on Instagram that she had an issue with centers of her granny squares opening up in the wash. I've had issues with this too. My plan for this blanket is to wash all of the hexagons first before seaming together to try to weed out anything that's not secure. I've also thought of a new idea for knotting mine closed because I'm holding yarn double. I'll share a video for that soon! Ninja Turtle Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering Yarn in the Ninja Turtle Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 56 stitches. Cuff Down. Laura chose this yarn when we were shopping at Loop London in the Fall of 2022. About the yarn: it is the brightest, most neon yellow/green. Progress: I'm maybe an inch past the first cuff. Own Two Feet Socks Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry ) Yarn: Cloudborn Fibers Merino Superwash Sock Twist Tiny Stripe in the Own Two Feet Colorway Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page 56 stitches. Cuff Down. About the yarn: 2 round stripes of plum, lavender, brown and gray Progress: I've turned the first heel. Benjamin's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page From the Armchair Movies A Man Called Otto (2022) Till (2022) The Fabelmans (2022) Books The Measure by Nikki Erlick. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. The Betrayal of Anne Frank; A Cold Case Investigation by Rosemary Sullivan. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Book Lovers by Emily Henry. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Knitting in Passing Riley finished the Reinpack Bag (free Ravelry Download she was knitting for my Mom, her grandmother. We bought yarn at Staci's Stitches. The yarn is a super bulky t-shirt yarn from Hoooked Zpaghetti. She did most of the bag in a white with black polka dots and then black towards the bottom. The black yarn was definitely thinner, which wasn't ideal but as long as Mom doesn't use it to store small buttons or screws, it should be just fine. I gave Riley a very brief kitchener stitch overview and she flew through the rest of it to close up this bag. I'm so proud of her. In My Travels I visited with Laura in Orleans over the last two weekends. We went to a movie theater to see A Man Called Otto. We browsed Provincetown, which is a bit sleepy in the offseason. We had fun browsing a few shops. We did a taste test of 3 peanut butter cups. Of the three milk chocolate peanut butter cups, Hilliard's Candy was our favorite followed by The Providence Fudge Factory and then Hot Chocolate Sparrow.  I taught Laura how to make homemade stovetop popcorn and that nearly turned into a disaster when we thought we ruined the bottom of a Les Creuset but were able to clean/remove the stain with vinegar and baking soda. We also visited the Antique Center & Cape Abilities Thrift Store in Yarmouth, MA. I made a quick trip to Adventures in Knitting in Harwich on Saturday. I bought 2 skeins of yarn and a set of Addi sock needles. Gusto Wool, Carmen in color 1402 Edelweiss Fibres Standard Sock in the Hillside Heather colorway (UK company) KAL News Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22 Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Link to the Official Rules Player Registration- Google Form Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc. Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread Important Updates in this Episode Tune in to hear if you're one of our 10 Grand Prize Winners Pigskin '22 Wrap-up & Highlights. 1030 on Roster this Season 189 people earned 1-25 entries 45 people earned 26-50 entries 17 people got between 51-100 entries 7 of you earned more than 100 entries or more entries towards grand prizes. 4,143 entries for Finished Projects 693 entries for non-project points 2,578 posts on Instagram using #DCSPigskinParty22 Special Challenges & Bonuses Talkgate Talk Fistbumps and Fives Creepy WIP challenge Night Bright challenge Gratitude WIP Bonus Spread the Warmth challenge Plus 4 Interceptions! Our Teams were Part of 3 Conferences this year- Alpaca Conference (Commissioner: Alicia) & Llama Conference (Commissioner: Emily) & Sheep Conference(Commissioner: Heather) Llama Conference won for the 2nd year in a row with over 211k points Sheep took second this year with over 188k points Alpaca Conference had a strong showing with over 161k points Highest scoring Team was also in the Llama conference- Team 10 Wildcard WIPers with 67,452 points 2nd Place goes to: Team 7- Garter Guards- 62,789 points In 3rd Place from the Sheep Conference is: Team 12 Sprinting Steekers- 58,213 Top Players Julia Wagner, Team 11: 22,514 points KathyG, Team 12: 19, 868 points EyeNowHour, Team 3: 19,732 points Kathleen_Ducharme, Team 7: 19,094 Events Sunday March 5 from 10:30a-3:00p Farm Fiber Days at Russell's Garden Center in Wayland, MA Check out this year's vendors on this page. Knit for Food Knit-a-thon 2023 Event: a Fundraiser for Feeding America, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry and Meals on Wheels organized by Laura Nelkin is happening on March 26, 2023 Saturday April 1 from 10a-3p: The Yarn Seller's 10th Annual Fiber Marketplace in York, Maine. Click here for details. Saturday April 22 from 10a-5p Gore Place Annual Sheepshearing Festival in Waltham, MA. Click here for details. Connecticut Sheep & Wool: April 29, 2023 at the North Haven Fairgrounds Maryland Sheep & Wool: May 6 & 7th at the Howard County Fairgrounds Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: May 27 & 28th at the Cummington Fairgrounds Vermont Sheep & Wool: Sept 30 & Oct 1 at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds Contest, News & Notes If you check out JLsCreativeShop on Etsy & would like to purchase laser cut bamboo stitch markers or other items- you can use coupon code BOSTONJEN for 10% off. The progress keeper I shared is a set of 5 for $14.99. Conshy Connects Resale Therapy Live Sale on Thursday 3/2 at 7p Eastern on Facebook. Proceeds to benefit the FearLESS Living Fund to benefit the Blind Center of Nevada. Check out this YouTube Video where Mom & I talk more about this event and the Blind Center. Ask Me Anything Tune in to hear my answers to these questions Aggie asked: “How are you doing?” Cher asked: “Project progress please” Brittany asked: “When you went to overseas I saw you had a tiny bag attached to your cross body bag for your knitting.” Purse is the Liberty Sling Bag from Anthropologie Smaller bag that I attached with a carabiner was a ball holder from Pearl & Plum Etsy Shop. I believe it was a prototype, drawstring bag. Very lightweight. Not sure if they were ever sold. Frances asked: “all about those hexies” On a Happy Note Mom's friend Vikki came for a visit. Dan and I met Mom, Trish and Vikki for dinner and then they came back to our house for a drink. I shared about Mom's Bucket List with a Twist. Riley's item was a massive girls party/sleepover. She had an ice cream bar and a popcorn bar, lots of food and other desserts. We played silly games and had a blast! Dan & I bought a new washer and dryer to replace our broken one; Dan was so excited to try it out he did a ton of laundry including our sheets, which is my least favorite thing to do! Mom successfully completed her last 3-day set of chemotherapy! Her record for keeping nausea and vomiting at bay stands! We are very excited about that. I got to visit with my cousins Susan and Joanie who drove Mom in on the second and third days because my dad had vertigo. 90 minute massage, which was even better in the midst of a very busy work week. My time with Laura down in Orleans. Lots of talking, movies, & shopping. Quote of the Week Any self-prompt that reminds you to focus on flow not ebb, contributes to your greater sense of abundance. – Sarah Breathnach Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Jeff ranks the top ten teams in the league, based on some completely arbitrary factors...and the order might surprise you. Then, he previews Conference Championship Week in college football. Next, Jeff talks College Football Playoff possibilities, and ends the show with his best bets of NFL Week 13, including: Titans/Eagles, Jaguars/Lions, Chargers/Raiders, Chiefs/Bengals & Dolphins/Niners. Let's talk some football! Please remember to share this episode with all of the football fans in your life. Connect with the show: Instagram: @Generally.Managed Facebook: Generally Managed with Jeff Adams Twitter: @GMJeffAdams Email: generallymanagedpodcast@gmail.com

This week, we're serving up some delicious holiday leftovers for your enjoyment. In this episode from November 2019, we kicked off a week of gratitude by extending thanks and shout-outs to all of those people who have helped make our parenting journey just a little easier, from spouses and grandparents to pediatricians and carpool buddies.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 242 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show Notes with Photos, check out my website.   This week's segments included:   Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing In my Travels KAL News Life in Focus On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Star Knits, Adore Knit, Lolo Did It  Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh Sprout Socks   Yarn:  Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, tapue, lighter grass green, cream, pale green. Yarn from Woolens & Nosh-  Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor Project Bag- Pigskin '22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs  Repaired the cuff on Mom's Deja Blue Knit Picks Felici Socks from 2019.   Click here for my Ravelry Project Page.  I knit cuff down, so it was a bit of project to cut off the top of the sock, unravel back to the stockinette. Worked back up and used Jeny's surprisingly stretchy bind off to finish them.  Check out this page on Knitty for the details on this Bind Off. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Musselburgh Pattern: Musselburgh by Ysolda Teague (6 GBP pattern available on Ravelry & Ysolda's website) Needles: US 2 (2.75 mm) Yarn: Malabrigo Sock in Colorway 195 Black  Cast on using crochet magic circle to create number of CO sts called for in the pattern. Chose that because you can pull it tight. I then picked up and knit into those stitches. Colin & Nora's Christmas Stockings Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears!  web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.00 mm) Both stockings are joined & I'm working on the cuffs.  Mermazing Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) & mini skeins from Legacy Fiber Artz. Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Check out my  Blues and greens and purples.  Contrasting heel with LFA mini from my 2021 Advent Calendar Yarn from Pigskin Party Sponsors Hypnotic Yarn/Yarnable Box & Legacy Fiber Artz- both Snack Shack Sponsors Project Bag from Anne Beady Designs (Pro Shop Sponsor) Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished. Portal Socks Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Steel Toes Base in the Portal Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Yarn from Legacy Fiber Artz- Pigskin Party Snack Shack Sponsor Yarn- speckles. Mostly reads pink/maroons. so many tiny specks of color. taupe, green, blue, purple, gray/brown.  Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd sock has several inches done on the leg 2021 Scrappy Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: sock yarn minis and scraps Ravelry Project Page (started in April 2021. Picked back up in September 2022) In this project, I used Helical knitting using Video Tutorial from Knitty Natty & Cate's Clasp Weft join- check out my YouTube Tutorial  by clicking here. Progress- 1st sock finished. 2nd cuff finished + an inch or so of the leg. Helical knitting made these so much more interesting to me. Game changer. First Point of Libra Cowl Pattern: First Point of Libra Cowl by Laura Aylor  Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Yarn: Barnyard Knits, Fuse Fiber Studio, One Twisted Tree (shop formerly own Prairie Girl Danie) + other leftover sock yarn  Ravelry Project Page Yarn purchased at Vogue Knitting Live January 2020 with Lauren. Planned to make a 2 color shawl. Cast on My Cryptonite by Melanie Berg and never got more than a couple inches in. Here's the Ravelry Project Page for the shawl that's now frogged.  Inspiration color= Barnyard Knits- Pricky Pear (multi- has grays, greens and pinks). Matches new long, green, quilted coat from J. Jill.  Plus Fuse Merino Sock in Mercury Glass (gray) & Fuse in Radical Acceptance (pink) I think this project would be great for small scraps because even though each section calls for X number of rows, you could easily modify it and have wider or thinner stripes in each direction.  Spinning 4oz of 100% Natural Cotswold purchased from Long Island Livestock Company at Rhinebeck for $20. Beautiful tan color.  No real plan or prep. Just enjoying the process. Brainstorming I'd like to make a fingering weight hat using yarns from the First Point of Libra Cowl to bring to the UK in November.  Found yarn for Megg's next Nanaimo Cardigan for Christmas- Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick in the Abalone Colorway. Ordered from Joann.com From the Armchair On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Knitting in Passing I shared stories about a women who took my knitting from me on the train and started knitting it herself, about how Hattie thought my Mom's cowl was the funniest beard she ever saw, how I was recognized by a local knitting in the lobby of a theater during intermission and about a chat with lovely woman at my local nail salon. In My Travels Rhinebeck 2022: Mom, Ryan, Nicki & I had a whirlwind weekend at CAKEPalooza and Rhinebeck- the NY Sheep & Wool Festival. Come along and enjoy the sights and sounds of the trip in this video on the  https://youtu.be/JmmjF1VcIGU In this episode I shared just a few highlights. Some key links: Shameka‘s cupcakes that we bought at CAKEpalooza Rhinebeck sweaters- Mom and I each wore our Wave of Change Jackets. Click here for the Ravelry Project Page for Jen's Sweater & the Ravelry Page for Mom's sweater. On Sunday, I wore my Boxing Day Bonus Shawl. Mom wore her new Shift Cowl- click here for the Ravelry Project Page.  Mom got to share her Scrapbox Challenge project with Crispina who hosted this challenge in March 2020 Ross Farm Fiber Tour 2022 Shirts In November I'm going to the UK. I'll be visiting Manchester, Newbury & London, England & Cardiff, Wales. Do you have any tips or suggestions for me? Restaurants, shops, best ways to get theater tickets etc.  KAL News Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22   Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Link to the Official Rules Player Registration- Google Form Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.  Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc. Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread Important Updates in this Episode First of the Pigskin Participation Prizes. The 10 Grand Prizes will be shared soon! Check out November's Woolen Cafe Interception Challenge hosted by Woolen Women Fibers. You can find the details in the Ravelry Group or in this  November- Woolen Cafe Interception: Woolen Women Fibers The October Interception Winner will be shared in early November in the Ravelry Group & in the next episode. Thanks again to Sunsoaked Yarns for hosting! Rule update: you need to have a Unique URL for each submission. Check out this Ravelry Post for details. I've also updated the Official Rules.  This year we'll have 10 grand prizes! Will share details in the group soon! Life in Focus Quick health update on Mom who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer on December 1, 2021. Her October scans showed new tumors in the pleura (lining) of her lungs which aren't responding to her Tagrisso gene therapy medicine. They'll be doing a biopsy to see if they can tell why it is resistant and perhaps there is another drug they can try. Since that will take about a month before we have results, she'll be starting chemotherapy in the meantime. 1st infusion on November 4th. Send out all those good wishes.  You can check out the video we recorded together if you want to hear more. The first 40 minutes are really just a recap of our spring, summer and fall fun- complete with photos and videos.  https://youtu.be/AGyUgXLHXGo On a Happy Note Rhinebeck! Sharon of Knit Style Yarns just released her first pattern- Celtic Christmas Cowl ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry) & kindly gifted me a copy. Thank you Sharon & congrats! I went to see Sweeney Todd at Company Theater with Mom, Terri & Emelyn. My cousin Colleen got married last weekend! She looked beautiful. The wedding was perfect. They had cider donuts instead of wedding cake! Mom & my 94 year old Aunt Florence who also has cancer, set Colleen's wedding as their goal and they were both there with big smiles and so much energy. Dancing and laughing. We are all so grateful for that. Colin and Nora whooping it up on the dance floor. Colleen & her Dad dancing in the trolley all the way back to the hotel with Dan and my cousin Joanie's husband using their phone flashlights to create a strobe effect! Oisin and Dan working to cut and stack wood. Made Oisin a batch of applesauce even though I haven't had time to teach him how to make it yet.  My cousins sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Total surprise. 20 years at my day job. Dinner celebration postponed but Dan and I look forward to going to that in early 2023. I got to pick out a gift from an online catalog. I picked an Air Fryer so hit me with your best vegetarian air fryer recipes! Our contractor starting putting new railings on our deck. We attended my cousins (Pat & Kevin's) joint Surprise Costume Birthday Party. Mom, Dad, Dan and I dressed up in a Little Mermaid Theme!  We saw a local production of Guys & Dolls. Megg is a Hot Box Dancer. Oisin was a Gambler. They were both great! Quote of the Week There is the touch of November in the air, chill enough to have a slight tang, like properly aged cider. Not air that caresses, nor yet air that nips.  Air that makes one breathe deeply and think of spring water and walk briskly.   -Hal Borland   Contact Information:   Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 241 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Check out full show notes with photos on my website by clicking here.  This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair In my Travels KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Knit Style Yarn Woolen Women Fibers Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins The Shift (Cowl) Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website) Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Ravelry Project Page Marled Wave of Change Jacket Pattern: Wave of Change Jacket by Denise Bayron ($10 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 8 – 5.0 mm, US 9 – 5.5 mm + US 10 – 6.0 mm Yarn Marled effect achieved by holding yarn together. 2 sock + 1 DK or worsted 1 DK or worsted + 1 Aran Ravelry Project Page Needles: US 10 for the body. US 8 for the neck ribbing. US 9 for the bottom hem and non-button band ribbing sections. Yarns Used: Goosey Fibers, Sunsoaked Yarns, Hypnotic Yarn, Ross Farm (Henrietta), McKnits, Teenie Button Studio, Legacy Fiber Artz ,Spitfire & Fury DK+ my own handspun+ others! Modifications in the sleeves- after the first 3 decreases, I changed to doing decreases every other round until I got to the designated stitch count. Finished in the 3rd color stripe. If you're weary of marling, choose colors that are similar in value. Mixing a white with a dark color like black, dark purple or maroon is going to be a very stark contrast. I don't always love that. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Woolens & Nosh Socks Yarn:  Woolens and Nosh 90% SW Targhee, 10% Nylon 3 Ply Yarn (411 yards / 100 grams) in the Sprout Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Sprout- 10 stripe- Light yellow, peach, ballet pink, maroon, dusty blue, kelly green, taupe, lighter grass green, cream, pale green. Yarn from Woolens & Nosh-  Pigskin Party Pro Shop Sponsor Project Bag- Pigskin '22 Exclusive from Anne Beady Designs Brainstorming Christmas ideas- like these cute crocheted pieces that attach to a large wooden ring. You put them over the bar on the oven or dishwasher and then you can hang a dishtowel from the wooden ring. Here's a Pinterest link for a crochet option. Aila wants a fox. Oisin wants an alien. Hattie wants a unicorn because she thinks hers was lost. TBD. From the Armchair The Girl Next Door Podcast: I thoroughly enjoyed their annual Fall Extravaganza episodeand this year was no exception. I didn't especially enjoy the Serial Podcast recent update about Adnan Syed's case but I was relieved to hear that Syed was officially ruled out as a suspect in the murder of Hae Min Lee in 1999 (though he served 23 years in prison) Check out this local Baltimore news story. Congrats to Syed & and his family and especially his fierce friend and advocate Rabia Chaudry. Check out this video on Rabia's Instagram Feed for more details. Listen to Season 1 of Undisclosed if you want more about this case (especially if you only ever listed to Serial). I also enjoyed episodes 1 & 2 of Rabia's new podcast- Rabia & Ellyn Solve the Case. Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney Plus I adored it! In My Travels Riley, Mom & I enjoyed the Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul. Check out video on the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel. Highlights- getting to see Cheryl & Jess from Hypnotic Yarn. Getting to see (and purchase) Pigskin sponsor Mcknits Yarn in person at Plymouth Harbor Knits At Wicked Good Yarn in Rockland, MA we learned about the Open Studios Event coming up November 19th & 20th. Check out the event's Facebook page for more details. We learned about Locker Hooking at Wicked Good Yarns in Rockland during the 2022 Cape and South Shore Yarn Haul. The Color Crazy website has the mesh you need to make it and the crochet hook with the eye. Have you ever tried it? You can buy a book about Locker Hooking on the Woolery's website for $12. Here's a blog post that seems to cover the basics if you're curious. KAL News Pigskin Party'22: The Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22 Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Link to the Official Rules Player Registration- Google Form Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link. Google Doc. Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread Important Updates in this Episode Check out October's Coin Toss Interception hosted by Sunsoaked Yarns. Click here for the Ravelry Thread or here for the Google Doc with all the details you need. Will announce first of the Participation prizes in the next episode! Events Rhinebeck – NY Sheep and Wool Festival. October 15 & 16. CAKEpalooza: October 14 from 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. with ticketed & timed slots in Saugerties, NY Rhinebeck Prep- check out this PDF for my best tips. Rhinebeck- come see at 1p Saturday Podcaster Meet up on the Hill. Behind the Petting Zoo on the Map. EarthTonesGirl Falling Leaves Sock KAL runs 9/15 through 11/15 Check out this Instagram Post for details. The 5th annual Falling Leaves Sock KAL (knit along) runs from September 15-November 15. The official hashtag is #fallingleavessockkal2022 On a Happy Note Our well is at a normal level again! Cooking & doing laundry feels like a privilege when you haven't been able to do it for months. We have some Sneaky Pumpkins growing near our deck (where last year's pumpkins must have met their demise!) Apple Picking- my favorite day of the year Kids working around the yard with Dan. Getting firewood chopped and stacked. They moved our back steps to get ready for new railings that we're hiring a contractor to install. My Dad turned 70! We had a super fun party for him at my parents' house. I had a nasty cold which was a bummer for me, but otherwise it was great. Merry Everything & Happy Always Yarn Swap is open for sign ups. Thanks to those who knew I wanted to sign up and made sure I got in there. Swap Partners will be assigned on 10/16 so get into the Between Knits & Purls Ravelry Group ASAP if you want to join. 24 mini skeins/balls of 5-7 grams each (Fingering/Sock Yarn) I got self striping from Desert Vista Dyeworks yarn in the mail + my October Yarnable Subscription Box. Check out my Yarnable Unboxing Video on my YouTube Channel. Quote of the Week To improve the golden moment of opportunity, and catch the good that is within our reach, is the great art of life.–SAMUEL JOHNSON Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 239 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For Full Show notes with photos check out my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming Knitting in Passing KAL News Events Contest, News & Notes On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Woolen Women Fibers Cniotáil Láimhe Designs- Ravelry Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Recollection Blanket Pattern: Recollection by Deanne Ramsay ($6 crochet pattern available on Ravelry & Etsy– written in both US & UK Crochet terms) Yarn: Various full skeins and 20+ gram fingering weight yarn stash. Hook: J (6.0 mm) Ravelry Project Page Cast on with US K. It was still a little too tight but it works. Body done in a US J (6.0 mm) Blanket is 56 inches wide (not including the fringe).  6,576 meters for Stash Dash Baker Street Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Baker Street Colorway My Ravelry Project  278.6 meters for Stash Dash Hat for Dad Pattern: Turn a Square by Jared Flood ($4 knitting pattern available on Ravelry & on the Brooklyn Tweed website) Yarn: Fingering held double. Knit Picks Stroll Tweed in the Wellies Heather Colorway (black) & YarnBaker Fingering Weight Yarn in the Blazer colorway (blue) Needles: US 5 (4.5 mm) and US 7 (3.75 mm) My Ravelry Project Page 225.6 meters for Stash Dash. On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Solstice Socks Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Solstice Colorway Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Mermazing Socks Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Mermazing Colorway (April 2022 Subscription Box) Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Ravelry Project Page Check out my Unboxing Video Here The Shift Pattern: The Shift by Andrea Mowry ($7 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & her website) Yarn: 3 Skeins of my Handspun Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm) Ravelry Project Page Swatched- US 5, US 4 and finally US 3 LOVE working with my handspun. Cloudy + Rainbows Spinning Project Fiber: 4oz braid of BFL from Frabjous Fibers in the Rainy Day Rainbows Colorway Description- long stretches of light gray punctuated with shorter blips of rainbow colors Twist direction: singles = Z plied = S This means when I'm spinning, my wheel is spinning clockwise and when plying my wheel is moving counter-clockwise. Plans: will likely ply with another braid.  Brainstorming I should start 2 crochet stockings that I need to have done by Thanksgiving. Planning another Shift Cowl for me!  Yarn recycling. Do you know of any options besides mailing scraps to Hedgehog Fibres?  Knitting in Passing Package from Sarah- the martini knitter . Fiber fill and yarn 2 blues Knitting will Millie megg and Hattie over the weekend.  KAL News Pigskin Party'22: Official Hashtag is #DCSPigskinParty22 Pigskin Landing Page on the Down Cellar Studio Website. Start Here Thread in the Ravelry Group Link to the Official Rules Player Registration- Google Form Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles.  Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors- Ravelry Link Check out the Pigskin Exclusive Items in this Ravelry Thread Tip from Sarah- Imagined Landscapes- on Watching or Ignoring Team Threads: You can set Ravelry Threads to watch or ignore. Watching a thread means it will pop up to the highest point under the stickied threads if there‘s a new post. Ignoring a thread means you never see it again – I use it to clear up teams I‘m not on so there‘s less visual clutter for my PSP. Check out this page on Ravelry for instructions on how to Ignore a Thread. Fist Bumps & Fives Challenge– check out this link for details. Complete this challenge anytime between 9/20-9/30 and enter on the Points Tally Form to earn 100 bonus points. You'll need a link to your Ravelry or Instagram Post for validation. Enter for points between 9/23-9/30. Virtual Kick Off Weekend-click here for the schedule Events Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) ended August 31st My final tally- 27,546 m  Compare to previous years My best year ever! Beat 2020's total by 71 meters) 2021- 16,696.  2020-27,475 2019- 16,355 Funny how I bounce between 16k one year and 27 another!   32 projects 12 crochet. 14 knit, 6 skeins handspun Crochet- 20,679 meters Knit- 3,819 m Spinning- 3,046 m Types of Projects 11 pairs socks 6 skeins handspun 5 Blankets (18, 524 m) 4 cozies 2 Tops (1 crop, 1 tunic bathing suit cover up) 1 hat, 1 tie, 1 shawl, 1 toy,  Jasmin ended this year with 10,838 Meters. I beat her by 16,707 meters!!! Jen's Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc Jasmin's Stash Dash Spreadsheet Tracker- Google Doc Cape & South Shore Yarn Haul- Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2. Check out their Event Website for details. Facebook Page available here. Pro Shop Sponsor Anne Beady will be at Salt Yarn Studio on Thursday 9/29 with her beautiful bags & design samples! Greater Boston Yarn Crawl– is also being held Thursday 9/29 through Sunday 10/2 EarthTonesGirl Falling Leaves Sock KAL runs 9/15 through 11/15 Check out this Instagram Post for details.   Contest, News & Notes Check out my Stash Dash projects in a 2 part series on my YouTube Channel- click here for  Video 1 & Video 2 September Yarnable Unboxing Video can be found here. On a Happy Note A quick visit from Laura in from NYC. Dan and I did a big cellar clean-out over Labor Day weekend.  We enjoyed a big pool day (Oisin and Eme practiced their diving, Hattie practiced her swimming with Auntie Di) over Labor Day Weekend. We followed that with a clam bake, a belated birthday celebration for Oisin who turned 14 in June (while still in Ireland).  Oisín working with Dan in the yard again this fall. They uncovered an impromptu pumpkin patch that sprung up next to our deck! We had our first fire of the fall. Pizza and beer after the boys were done working. Hattie (age 4) asked “are you gonna knit with me?”  I asked if she was going to knit with ME! And she did.  We enjoyed our last pool day and family trip to Hornstra for ice cream!  Quote of the WeekAt some point in life the world's beauty becomes enough. You don't need to photograph, paint or even remember it. It is enough.–TONI MORRISONMusic -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/——Thank you for tuning in.Remember show notes for this episode can be found at www.downcellarstudio.com/#If you have a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts, I'd greatly appreciate it.I can be found on Ravelry as BostonJen and I'd love it if you came over to join our lively and engaged Down Cellar Studio Ravelry Group.Check me out on Instagram at BostonJen1 if you want to see what I'm up to between episodes.Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube ChannelEmail me at downcellarstudio@gmail.com For website:Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Goat Chat is back from its two month hiatus to talk about what's going on in sports including the NBA Conference Finals and the first month of the MLB. Before we go through that, we did our new segment called GOAT of the State, where we pick the current greatest player in the designated state. We started today's episode with the state of Ohio with the Cavaliers, Reds, Guardians, Bengals and Browns! After the main segment, we ran through Goat of the Week! Goat of the Week voting will be Saturday on Instagram! Don't forget to check out our socials below and let us know what you want to see! Available to hear on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! 1:08 Goat of Ohio 9:36 Heat v. Celtics 20:15 Warriors v. Mavericks 29:37 MLB Winners and Losers 41:10 Is DeGrom Injury Prone? 49:15 World Series Predictions 50:49 Goat of the Week Thank you for watching our video you absolute stud, simply by clicking this video you have become 4x more handsome and have increased at least 2 inches in height Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Goat-Chat-10​... Instagrams: https://www.instagram.com/goat_chat/​ https://www.instagram.com/mattykane105/​ https://www.instagram.com/connor_wood​... https://www.instagram.com/michael.bueti/​ https://www.instagram.com/tommymumau13/​ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goatchatsports Twitter: https://twitter.com/goatchatsports

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 232 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes with photos can be found on my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Brainstorming From the Armchair Knitting in Passing KAL News Events On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsors: Sunsoaked Yarns & Fibernymph Dye Works Note- there will be only one episode in May 2022. Talk to you again in June (or join us May 30th for our Splash Pad Virtual Kick Off) Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Mom's Zen Socks  Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Zen Colorway Ravelry Project Page 2 Tiny Turtles Pattern: Little Miss Turtle by Diana Moore (free crochet pattern available on Ravelry & on the PinkMouseBoutique website) Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz Minis in various greens Hook: B 2.25 m  Ravelry Project Page for Turtle 1 Ravelry Project Page for Turtle 2 On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Spinning: Wool of the Andes Unspun Roving. Colorway: Delft Heather (100 grams) 100% Peruvian Highland Wool & Malabrigo Nube. 113 grames Combed Top 100% Merino Wool in Colorway 809 Solis.  Planning to ply these together with Rhapsody Fiber Arts- 2oz 50% Angora/50% merino no colorway- lighter blues. Scrappy Hexagon Blanket Pattern: Basic Crochet Hexagon Pattern & Tips from Make Do and Crew Website & YouTube Tutorial Hook: F (3.75 mm) Yarn: Knit Picks Hawthorne Marl Sock Lab in the Grey White Marl Colorway + fingering weight scraps Ravelry Project Page 3 rounds with yarn held double  75 hexagons completed to date Double Dog Dare Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Knit Picks Felici in the Double Dog Dare Colorway Ravelry Project Page Pumpkin Patch Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video. Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box. 2 recent Unboxing Videos- check out April & May on YouTube. Brainstorming Shawl idea forming. Maybe a new design? Maybe a disaster? Time will tell. From the Armchair The Invisible Kingdom: Reemerging Chronic Illness by Meghan O'Rourke. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid (narrated by Julia Whelan) Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Knitting in Passing My cousin Gayle gave me an antique darning egg that was her great grandmother's.  It appears to be a vintage white milk glass hand blown darning egg- similar to this one listed on eBay Mom got us matching pink socks with sheep on them for upcoming Wool Festivals! KAL News Link to the 2022 Splash Pad Party Rules.docx Participant Sign Up- Google Form Check out our amazing Sponsors! Click here for the Google doc with their websites and Instagram profiles. Check out the list of available Coupons from our amazing sponsors: Ravelry link Check out the Splash Pad Exclusive Items here Enter your FOs using this Splash Pad Summer Celebration Form to be eligible for prizes (not a Ravelry link). View all the Entries and the Leaderboard here -> Splash Pad Party Player Stats Need help with an entry submission? -> Splash Pad Support Request Form Questions- check out this Ravelry Thread or email Jen. Join our Virtual Kick Off Events Monday May 30th. Click here for a Google Doc with the full schedule. Events Stash Dash (Hosted by The Knit Girllls) will be hosted on Discord again and will be from May 27th-end of August. Discord link: knit girllls discord On a Happy Note Scituate Salt Cave I enjoyed the quiet time & guided meditation. I'm not sure I believe in the benefits of the salt and am especially skeptical that the website sites Dr. Oz as their source. Check out the Maintenance Phase Podcast to hear some behind the scenes details you may not know about Dr. Oz  Morgen's First Communion and A's birthday dinner.  I saw a local production of Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with my cousins, my grandmother & my great aunt Florence as part of her 94th birthday celebration. She's always wanted red leather pants. Her daughter Joanie bought them for her and she rocked them! Savers trip with Mom! Always fun (and funny) My cousin Bella's performance as Fiona in Shrek the Musical Our friend Liz's surprise 30th Birthday- Star Wars Themed Party. The decorations were on point! We have a new nephew- Zachary! Mother's Day at Mom's. My mom, Diane Lassonde, was on Episode 190 of the eBay for Business Podcast. Check it out! Quote of the Week Life will hit you hard in the face, wait for you to get back up just so it can kick you in the stomach. But getting the wind knocked out of you is the only way to remind your lungs how much they like the taste of air.– Sarah Kay Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.

Teacher Appreciation Week. Please thank a teacher.

Teacher Appreciation Week. Please thank a teacher.

Teacher Appreciation Week. Please thank a teacher.

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 229 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. For full show notes with photos, check out my website. This week's segments included: Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins From the Armchair Some Years Later Crafty Adventures Knitting in Passing KAL News Life in Focus Ask Me Anything On a Happy Note Quote of the Week Thank you to this episode's sponsor: The Yarn Sellar. Check out their Fiber Marketplace on Saturday 4/9/22 in York Beach Maine! Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins Kris' Dance Shoe Legwarmers Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern) Yarn: Charming Ewe Suki Sock in the Mystic Topaz  Colorway Needles: US 1 (2.25 mm) & US 2 (2.75 mm) My Ravelry Project Page If you'd like a good afterthought heel pattern, consider Susan B. Anderson's Smooth Operator Heel pattern (Ravelry Link) For a video tutorial, check out this video from the EarthtonesGirl YouTube Channel Blue Kamakaze Socks Yarn: ThreadHeadKnits Co. Plump Sock (100% Superwash Merino 4 ply- 438 yards/100g) in the Blue Kamakaze Colorway. Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams $5 on Ravelry. Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) My Ravelry Project Page On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins A's Scrappy Dance Shoe Legwarmers Pattern: Dance Shoe Legwarmers by Sherry Katherine Vernon (free knitting pattern) Yarn: Various Fingering Weight leftovers including Knit Picks Felici Needles: US 1 5(2.5 mm) My Ravelry Project Page Eme's Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi Pattern: Unicorn Macaron Amigurumi free crochet pattern by Anitha Domacin available on their website. Yarn: Knit Picks Brava Worsted in white and various other colors. Small bit of silver metallic yarn from Stash Hook: C (2.75 mm) My Ravelry Project Page Pumpkin Patch Socks Pattern: OMG Heel by Megan Williams ($5 Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry) Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm) Yarn: Hypnotic Yarn Plush Sock in the Pumpkin Patch colorway (October Yarnable Subscription Box Colorway). Click here for my YouTube Unboxing Video. Curious about Yarnable? Consider checking out my Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link. Use Coupon Code BOSTONJEN for $5 off your first box. Sagamore Flyover Cowl Pattern: in draft Needles: US 9 (5.5 mm) Yarn: Sugarbush Dawson in the Graphite Gray Colorway- 50% Llama/50% Merino 100 grams, 151 meters My Ravelry Project Page Ribbing, mistake rib used in my Sagamore Flyover Hat pattern. Kim's Christmas Stocking Pattern: Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Family Circle Magazine. Available in this web archive link. I've also saved it to my podcast Gmail Google Drive in case it disappears! web.archive.org-Christmas Stockings to Knit and Crochet from Our Archives.pdf Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver in Cherry Red, Hunter Green and White Hook: G (4.00 mm) My Ravelry Project Page From the Armchair In a New York Minute by Kate Spencer. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link. I heard about this one on interview with the author on the Bad on Paper Podcast Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases. Some Years Later March 11. 2022 was our 10 year podcast anniversary! THANK YOU to everyone who has listened, told a friend, left a review, purchased a pattern, joined my Patreon group, participated in a KAL. THANK YOU! I'm so appreciative. Crafty Adventures I helped Millie (age 10) with a craft kit: Mini Garden Unicorn- Amazon Affiliate Link Knitting in Passing I was gifted yarn from Megg in Ireland: Hedgehog Fibres– Sock Yarn (90% Merino, 10% nylon) in the Crush colorway. Pinks from light to magenta with yellows, oranges and royal blues. My niece Millie received yarn from the nurse at her school whose daughter had taken up knitting and then given it up. I ordered needles for Millie and cast on a cowl she wants to knit with the skein of yarn from A Hundred Ravens at Russell's Garden Center Farm Fiber Days at the beginning of March. KAL News Splash Pad Party '22 Call for Sponsors! Sponsor Call: Deadline 4/25/22 Want to sign up (after you read the details)? Please fill out this Google Form Info Page for Sponsors on my Website- click here Kick Off Date- Monday 5/30- Memorial Day. Virtual Events.Sign ups for Participants coming soon Life in Focus Thanks to Nikki for telling us about the Hiking Project App (available for Apple & Android) I shared an update on my plan to incorporate 20 min of movement/4 times per week into my life and a check in on my word for the year PAUSE. Ask Me Anything Tune in to hear more about killing acrylic. Check out this blog post from Sew Homey who found using a hair dryer to flatten acrylic worked best. On a Happy Note Something Rotten Musical Garret's birthday sleepover St. Patrick's Day with my cousins Tom visiting from Ireland A weeknight sleepover with Riley, Garret & Millie. Snuggles and reading Ply magazine from Suzanne during the kids' reading time before bed. Oscar party Dress shopping with Mom Immersive Frida Exhibit in Boston with Melissa Quote of the Week Poet May Sarton on the importance of rest: “I always forget how important the empty days are, how important it may be sometimes not to expect to produce anything, even a few lines in a journal. A day when one has not pushed oneself to the limit seems a damaged, damaging day, a sinful day. Not so! The most valuable thing one can do for the psyche, occasionally, is to let it rest, wander, live in the changing light of a room.” Thank you for tuning in! Contact Information: Check out the Down Cellar Studio Patreon! Ravelry: BostonJen & Down Cellar Studio Podcast Ravelry Group Instagram: BostonJen1 YouTube: Down Cellar Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downcellarstudio Sign up for my email newsletter to get the latest on everything happening in the Down Cellar Studio Check out my Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel Knit Picks Affiliate Link Bookshop Affiliate Link Yarnable Subscription Box Affiliate Link Music -“Soft Orange Glow” by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/ Note: Some links are listed as Amazon Affiliate Links. If you click those, please know that I am an Amazon Associate and I earn money from qualifying purchases.