Ms. Knit Sox: Executing Stitches, One Stitch at a Time...

Math Errors...

I can add and subtract.  Really, I can.  But, I must have had a mental block when I was knitting my first Gentleman's Fancy Sock.  I decided I wanted to do a short row toe as is the norm for me.  And, also as is the norm for me, I wrote out abbreviated notes on a post-it note for easy reference.  And, I always double or even triple check to ensure I have written it down correctly.  Well, I guess I should have quadruple checked it and also took better notes.  I cast on 36 stitches for the short row toe.  Once I completed the toe, I had 72 stitches, but needed 70 stitches.  Easy.  72 - 2 = 70.  Decrease two stitches on sole of foot.  36 (instep) + 34 (sole) = 70 totals stitches in conformity with the pattern called for on instep. 

Well, I completed the short row toe for the second sock a few weeks ago and when I went to look at my notes, I realized they were lacking.  Did the math, jotted down a few more notes and decided that was enough.  Put second sock aside.  I decided what I really wanted to do was cast on for a sock using the Claudia Hand Painted "Chocolate" colorway I purchased from The Loopy Ewe.  Found stitch pattern I really loved in Sensational Knitted Socks and started knitting away.  I was so in lurve with how it was looking I temporarily forgot about the other neglected sock. 

So, yesterday, the overwhelming guilt of neglecting my other sock took over and I sat down to figure out what went wrong.  Well, I realized, I did have 70 total stitches.  I just chose to divide them as such:  38 instep and 32 sole.  This is NOT in conformity with the pattern.  The sock still looks fine, but its not correct.  And, its bugging me because things like this generally do.  Just the evil perfectionist lurking its ugly head...  In order to make the socks match, I'll probably just continue the error.  And, make a note what the correct division of stitches should be in case I would want to knit this pattern again (although, not likely).  But, there's still that part of me wants to see my sock done correctly.  They could be fraternal twins.  So, back in time out goes the sock while I mull this over.  Besides, you know I secretly wanted to continue on with the chocolate sock...   

A Word to the Wise...

...if you injure your neck/shoulder, do NOT try to knit - no matter how bad you want to! Long story, so won't post about it here...

That being said, I did enjoy my time off doing other things I love.  A lot of reading.  Much walking.  Admiring flowers (more on that another day).  Quite therapeutic.  I am so much more rested now.  I feel refreshed.  Its fantastic. 

For your viewing pleasure:

Who knew?!?

My interesting find for today:  Grand National Sheeple-chase (pardon the pre-video commercial, but I don't know how to make it skip to the main attraction, if you will...).  New to me, anyway...

A Week Off...

Now that things are finally calming down at work, I decided I really needed some time off.  REALLY needed it.  I've slowly been running out of steam and finding myself in a undesirable state of irritability.  So, this week is all about me.  Doing what I want and what I need to rejuvenate.  To get back to myself...

That means not making a lot of plans to do things or sticking to a schedule.  I want to rest.  Nap if I want.  Knit as much or as little as I want.  Watch movies.  Read books.  Enjoy the outdoors.  Listen to audio books and podcasts.  Whatever strikes my fancy when I wake up each new day.

Yesterday, it was to finish one of my Gentleman's Fancy Socks - which are for me.  And, I didn't shorten the length of the sock.  Its the "tallest" sock I've ever knit.  If I had to do it again, I'd shorten them to my desired length.  But, I wanted to try it out...  And, I also watched the previous night's episodes of The Sopranos and The Tudors .   I also went on a short walk to enjoy the outdoors... Overall, a relaxing day.

Today, I'm not sure what I'll do.  I remembered that I've always wanted to visit Hillwood .  Today would be a perfect day for it because its beautiful outside.  And, the forecast says there is chance of rain the next few days.  However, its just not calling me today.  I think I'll take my chances tomorrow.  Today feels like a movie day to me (odd, I know, given what I just said it being a beautiful day).  I want to run up to my local SB, get my latte and blueberry muffin - and maybe read a bit.  On the way back, grab Sense and Sensibility (since we're reading it for our book club and I remember enjoying the movie quite some time ago) at the local movie rental store.  And, later in the day or evening, watch In Cold Blood which I recorded over the weekend.  Yes, that is what I think I shall do.  Throw some knitting in as well, perhaps.  But a stroll on the Mt. Vernon bike trail is also calling me because I am also in a thinking/reflective mood.  And,that is a place that I always find much peace...  As you can tell, there is much on my mind and I feel as if I'm rambling a bit.  Time to decompress and let go - move forward with renewed energy and spirit... : )