Seeing Red

Well hello again. I am currently working on another 'Dianna' shawl, this time in all red, hand dyed, ripe tomato and cherry combine to make a spectacular RED. This was a request, otherwise I probably would not have attempted this color. As it is I am working against the yardage, hoping I have enough to complete this as a shawl or even shawlette versus a scarf. Why is it that when you are making something just for the fun of it things work out so well, but when you are trying to make something to order for someone else all sorts of things go wrong?

It started with trying to dye the fiber in roving form. Oops! All Merino, felted like crazy when I was rinsing it. I managed to pick apart about an ounce and a half of that fiasco, in the meantime decided to spin up another four ounces and then dye it. Success. However, I didn't get the yarn as light weight as I wanted it, (a poor workman blames his tools, in this case my fingers!) so I went up a needle size or two, and am hoping for the best as far as tiers completed and it blocking out to a nice drapey size.

I did finish a nice scarf in white merino/silk, complete with nupps, from Knitted lace of Estonia, sorry no pics, and it is on its way to Mexico. I am making it again in the same fiber in a lovely gray called 'Sterling'. This was from a lace pack from Knit Picks. Half way through that project but switched to the red.

In the meantime, on a more personal note, seeing red, due to a death in the family the third week in December, brother in law, totally unexpected, too young really, 57, but from 'natural' causes. Then this past Saturday I found out that my older brother had been hit by a hit and run driver, when standing out in front of his house (he's ok) but ended up in surgery Friday night, and is still dealing with the blow although returned home Saturday night. My twin brother sent me photos and its a good thing I didn't see those before I talked to my brother, otherwise I am sure I would be in California by now. I have been able to talk to him and he sounds good and like he is dealing well with the situation. But, come on. A hit and run?

There is still good to see and experience. Family that comes together in a crisis, friends to visit with, babies to rock to sleep when visiting with their families, a friend's successful knee replacement surgery and she's home after three days! And even though it is cold, it is good to be alive!