Thank you for tuning in to Episode 244 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes can be found on my website.

Episode 244: Fours

A Knitting, Photography and Crafting Podcast

Hobbies

Games & Hobbies

Leisure

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 277 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   KAL News   Events   Life in Focus   On a Happy Note   Quote of the Week     Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   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 & the more recent June box which is available now. 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.      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   I started this project in January. Used nearly all of the yarn. Loved this yarn/pattern combo. I am planning to keep this hat! It is plenty long enough to wear with the brim folded and still have it worn slouchy.     Colleen's Baby Blanket   Pattern: Crochet Modern Boho Granny Blanket by Tiffany Brown (free crochet pattern available on this website)   Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Blue Mint, Soft Green, Riviera (Speckle), Kelly Green, Robin's Egg, White Sage (Speckle) & White   Hook: H (5.0 mm)   Ravelry Project Page   I learned about this edge technique on this website.       On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   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    About the yarn- probably about a sport weight yarn that gradiates through purples, blues and white.   I'm enjoying this project but it involves a lot of counting on each row so it takes focused time which I haven't had a ton of.   Working on the Front (or Back): 3 repeats of the pattern = 6 flowers     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 my April squares and am working on the border.     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.     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     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     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 really enjoy this pattern. It's a 2 row repeat that I remember having memorized the first time around but thought I couldn't this time. After working maybe 10 repeats, I was able to memorize it. It's just the cozy comfort project I need right now.     From the Armchair     Watch Me Disappear by Janelle Brown. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Counting the Cost: A Memoir. by Jill Duggar with Derick Dillard and Craig Borlaise. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Forever, Interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   A Funny Story by Emily Henry. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Every Summer After by Carley Fortune. 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 No Splash Pad Party this Summer, but check out these other awesome online events   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        Events   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 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 shared more details about my parents' car accident. Tune in to hear more. Thankfully they are both recovering.   Resources- Scituate Etrusco- serves the South Shore of MA with medical equipment that they loan out. Huge savings! Look for something similar near you.   I'm not sure what this will mean for mom's upcoming cancer treatments. She was supposed to be healing to be ready for radiation. Will know more within the next week.     On a Happy Note   Conor & Carly hosted a family game night for their Bucket List with a Twist item with my mom. We played Code Names & Penny Drop!   Riley gave Auntie Krissy the chicken we made together and she was over the moon! It was awesome.   My cousin Jenny had her baby girl, Vera Camela, at the hospital where I work, so I got to hold her when she was only a few hours old!   I went to see a local production of Gypsy that my friend Megg was in.   My 12 year old niece Millie was a huge help with my parents.   I finished my drawing class at the local rec center. I had to miss 2 out of 6 classes, but I learned a lot doing a portrait of Eme from a photo I took of them at the playground when they were a kid.   I took my grandmother to my cousin Colleen's baby shower. Coleen had a great reaction to her crocheted blanket. I'm always grateful for that.   We had a birthday dinner for Aila- low key backyard party made more interesting by a full-family cartwheel contest!   Big work project rolling out new technology went well. I was still able to take Mom to her appointments (while Dad wasn't driving and they didn't have a car), and was able to work other shifts so my coworkers could attend their kids events. As a thank you for that, my boss invited us to use a suite at the Garden for game 1 of the Celtics/Cavaliers Playoff Game! The Celtics crushed it. Dan wasn't able to come, so I brought my friend Liz who is a huge fan.   My friend Laura came in to visit for Mother's Day weekend- along w/ 7 of my Mom's friends. We went to a movie on Friday night then to visit Mom and her guests on Saturday. Sunday we made brunch for Mother's Day and then off to see Millie as a Munchkin and Flying Monkey in the Wizard of Oz at a local theater.     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 “It’s easier to take than to give. It’s nobler to give than to take. The thrill of taking lasts a day. The thrill of giving lasts a lifetime.” ~ Joan Marques   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.    

Episode 277: 1 month of making + updates

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 276 of the Down Cellar Studio Podcast. Full show notes 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   In my Travels   KAL News   Events   On a Happy Note   Quote of the Week     Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins     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     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 (5.5mm)   Yarn: Big Twist Tweed in White (7 skeins- I used just shy of 5 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.     Auntie Krissy's Chickens   Pattern: Chicken Family by Kensey Davis ($5 crochet pattern on Etsy)   Hook: G (4.0 mm)   Yarn: Premier Yarns Chunky Parfair in Mushroom, White, Ruby and Mustard.   Ravelry Project Page   Thanks to Riley for joining me to talk about this joint project.     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 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!   Progress: I finished my March squares (month 6) and unboxed month 7!     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.      Colleen's Baby Blanket   Pattern: Crochet Modern Boho Granny Blanket by Tiffany Brown (free crochet pattern available on this website)   Yarn: Caron Simply Soft in Blue Mint, Soft Green, Riviera (Speckle), Kelly Green, Robin's Egg, White Sage (Speckle) & White   Hook: H (5.0 mm)   Progress: I've finished 3 colors, doing 7 pairs of DC/DC3 tog per color. On the 3rd color, Riviera, I ran out of yarn, so couldn't complete the last row, so I ripped back and had to start with the Kelly Green early.     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      From the Armchair   Booth by Karen Joy Fowler. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   I'll Be You by Janelle Brown. 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   I took my nieces Riley and Aila to Connecticut for their birthday weekend sleepover. We got an AirBnB in Litchfield. Friday night, we stayed in and watched Gilmore Girls on Netflix (the inspiration for our adventure). Saturday we toured around! Here are some handy links.     Henry David Thoreau Footbridge   Hickory Stick Bookstore   The Washington Food Market   Five Janes (had some cute Gilmore Girls themed merch)   Stuart's Floral   The Po Cafe (for lunch)   Mayflower Inn and Spa- inspiration for the Independence Inn   Stars Hollow Yarn in New Preston, CT   Arethusa Farm Ice Cream   We shopped in a couple local thrift shops, did some window shopping in downtown Litchfield before stopping for coffee at Espresso 59.   Check out this blog post for more ideas of Exploring Washington Connecticut with a Gilmore Girls themed lens.   Stay tuned for a vlog coming to the Down Cellar Studio YouTube Channel.   KAL News   Splash Pad Registration Opens May 1   Event will run Friday May 24th through Wednesday July 31, 2024   Sponsor Call will go out SOON!     Events     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 (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!   On a Happy Note     I went to see the musical Company in Boston.   I joined my parents and a few of my cousins at the Spring Fling event at my Grandmother's Assisted Living.   Riley came for a sleepover to finish Kris's chicken. On Saturday, we spent some time at my parents, and then Dad drove us to my nephew Garret's hockey final. His team won and he scored the first and last goal of the game.   After spending Sunday morning with a headache, I rallied to join my parents for Riley's dance competition.   I've had 2 weeks of drawing classes through my town's Rec program. We did some basic exercises the first week and then moved into more structural architectural drawing using 2 point perspective.   My mom's friends ran an auction event and raised over $1200 for the FearLESS Living Fund!   Mom completed another round of chemo.   I did a bit of studio tidying.   Gilmore Girls weekend with Riley & Aila.     Quote of the Week We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down. –KURT VONNEGUT   ------   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.  

Episode 276: More Chicken Please

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. 

Episode 275: Spring-ish

  Thank you for tuning in to Episode 274 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   In my Travels   Events   Contest, News & Notes   On a Happy Note   Quote of the Week     Off the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   FearLESS Socks (DK)   Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway   Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)   Size: XS   Ravelry Project Page   About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.   Made for Mom     FearLESS Socks (Steel Toes)   Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK Steel Toes (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway   Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)   Size: M   Ravelry Project Page   About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.   Made for my Mom's chemo nurse, Nicole, who also cared for my Aunt Florence.     Greyhaven Hat   Pattern: Greyhaven hat by Robin Ulrich ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry)   Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) & US 7 (4.5 mm)   Yarn: Berocco Ultra Alpaca in the Avocado Colorway   Ravelry Project Page   Made for my niece's Aila's 15th birthday after she saw and like the grey one I wear a lot.     Emotional Support Chicken   Pattern: Emotional Support Chicken by Annette Corsino ($6.50 US Knitting Pattern available on Ravelry & this website)   Yarn: Various DK scraps   Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm)   Ravelry Project Page     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.     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!     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   Progress: Finished first sock and beyond the heel on the second sock.     From the Armchair     Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts by Kate Racculia. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Big Swiss by Jen Beagin. 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   I traveled to Orlando with my friend Megg who was going there for a conference. We stayed at the Gaylord Palms, visited Epcot one evening and had a great time.   I had a couple interesting conversations with people at the pool. One lady was fascinated by my knitting and we had a rather awkward chat when I told her I was knitting a chicken.   My poolside waiter told me he lived in NYC for a couple years with grandmother was a prolific knitter and he always enjoyed watching her knit.   Celebrated Megg's birthday while we were there with a delicious dinner, room decorations and of course some handknit socks (Ravelry Project Page)     Events     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   Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival: May 18th in Bristol, RI   Massachusetts Sheep & Wool: March 25 & 26, 2024 in Cummington, MA   Vermont Sheep & Wool: October 1 & 2, 2024 in Tunnebridge, VT   NY Sheep & Wool Festival (aka Rhinebeck): October 19 & 20, 2024 in Rhinebeck, NY     Contest, News & Notes   I announced the winners of the prizes I offered up for February FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser.   Total raised during the event: $6,627. 67     Stitched by Jessalu is coming out with bags with the FearLESS Living Fund logo w/ a fibery twist. Check it out   Life in Focus Health Update on Mom: March scans showed growth including in her brain. Radiation likely coming soon, but they're waiting until she's done with this round of chemo (hoping for 6 cycles)   On a Happy Note   Impromptu sleepover with Riley. We started a new secret project I'll tell you about in an upcoming episode. We also started a blanket for my cousin Joe who is expecting a baby boy in the summer. Riley chose a granny square that has a heart at the center. We each made just 1 to try it out and to make sure our squares would come out the same size. More on that in a future episode.   Riley and I went to Garret's hockey game. He got 2 goal but they ended up tying. That weekend, they did well enough to get to the next round of the playoffs.   My parents went to St. Maarten with 5 of my mom's first cousins and their spouses! She, Riley and I shared pics and videos of our daily outfits via text or Snapchat which is always fun.   Suzanne (SewRunKnit) turned me onto a new NY Times Game that's in beta: Strands.   My friend Marta messaged me to show me that her eldest son, Roc, has taken up crochet and made a little stuffed animal. Had planned to make a circle but he decided to free form it and it turned into a pear! Adorable!   Running around with Megg at Epcot like we were kids!   We even got our photo taken with Mickey. They got some candids as we were hugging him, and it looks like I'm bracing for an assault! Check out the hilarious photo.   I finished up my 4 part sock class at Staci's Stitches.     Quote of the Week   "It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade." -Charles Dickens, Great Expectations    ------ 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.    

Episode 274: Fun, Sun & Chickens!

Thank you for tuning in to Episode 273 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   KAL News   Contest, News & Notes   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   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   I first used this border on a Cozy Clusters Blanket  (Ravelry project page here). I learned about this edge technique on this website.     Millie's 2nd Squishmallow   Pattern: None. I did base some of the basic shaping on this pattern on Etsy   Hook: D (3.25 mm)   Yarn: worsted weight acrylic yarn in brown, tan, white & pink   I worked bottom up with the brown, adding in a patch of white at the belly. I created the face out of tan/white and added safety eyes and sewed it on. I added 2 brown ears and a pink and white headband like this Squishmallow: Andres the Sheltie Dog (Amazon Affiliate Link)     Declan's 2nd Socks   Yarn: Patons Kroy in the Greener Pastures Colorway   Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )   Ravelry Project Page   Green, black, gray, cream, mustard stripes + gray/green/white self patterning stripe.   Thanks for all the tips for his care package! Definitely taking some of those into account.     On the Needles, Hook or Bobbins   FearLESS Socks (DK)   Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway   Needles: US 3 (3.25 mm)   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )   Size: XS   About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock)   Progress: 1st sock is finished. I'm knitting on the foot of the second sock.     FearLESS Socks (Cozy Toes)   Yarn: Legacy Fiber Artz DK (75% Merino, 25% Nylon) in the FearLESS Colorway   Needles: US 1.5 (2.5 mm)   Pattern: OMG Heel Socks by Megan Williams ($5 knitting pattern available on Ravelry )   Size: M   About the Colorway- FearLESS is a special colorway by Legacy Fiber Artz for our February Fiber Community FearLESS Living Fund Fundraiser. Special Colorway “FearLESS” available in DK, Steel Toes (sock) and Cozy Toes (sock)   Progress: Finished the first sock and the cuff of the second. These socks will be gifted to my Mom's chemo nurse, Nicole, who also cared for my Aunt Florence.     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.     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- I finished the 3 round DC border to my December squares. My January squares done and seamed. I need to add the border to that.     From the Armchair   Reading   The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   You, Again by Kate Goldbeck. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry. Bookshop Affiliate Link. Amazon Affiliate Link.   Watching:   Dan and I recently watched all 4 seasons of Jack Ryan on Prime. We also loved Jury Duty (also on Prime).   I'm thoroughly enjoying Love is Blind Season 6 & chatting about it with my friend Laura.     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   Tune in to hear if you're a January Participation Winner and/or a Grand Prize Winner!     Contest, News & Notes 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.     Life in Focus   I gave updates on a few of my 24 for 2024 items   #4- Read more books than you did in 2023 (50) well on my way with 10 books in first 2 months of the year.   #10- Publish at least one new pattern redid the math and proportions for a shawl I came up with last year. talked to an indie dyer about yarn support   #16- go skiing     6 of 24 completely done!   On a Happy Note   Valentine's Day software upgrade at work went well. I was awake at 2:30a so it was a long day and nothing festive really but it was a good day!   We hosted Millie and Hattie for their birthday sleepovers. I took them to the Altitude trampoline park and Panera on Friday night. Saturday morning: Millie and I hiked while Hattie and Dan did a dump run and rode around in the tractor. We all did some crafts together before heading to the movies to see Migration.   I tried a new OPI nail color and loved it. It's called "Pink in Bio"   I've completed teaching 2 of 4 classes on the OMG Heel at my LYS and we've already got more than half of the class successfully turning heels.   I enjoyed a movie night at my Mom's to watch Wonka.   Dan and I did a 1000 piece Ford puzzle.   I went skiing at Crotched Mountain. Tune in to hear a funny story about Megg's fall.   We all had a fabulous time at my cousin Jenny's baby shower. She loved her crochet blanket.   I had a lovely visit with my middle-school best friend Maribeth who is very sick. She was inpatient at the hospital where I work and I was able to go up and see her and catch up.   I love the daily puzzles from the New York Times- especially Spelling Bee. On the 21st I got every possible word earning me Queen Bee status!   My friend Trish gave me a souvenir from a trip she took to New Orleans; she went to a local yarn shop and bought yarn from Louisiana- which I'll definitely knit into socks for her. Cat Tails yarn dyed exclusively for the Quarter Stitch Colorway Christmas Bonfires     Quote of the Week It is hard, so terribly hard, to please yourself. Far from being the easy thing that it sounds like, it is almost the hardest thing in the world, because we are not always comfortable with that true self that lies deep within us. –Christopher Alexander   ------   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.    

Episode 244: Fours

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