Serendipity Diary

Do you do Stranded Color Work???

2012-01-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

My mirror image mittens--I know how to make the right mitten but will have to do a bit a homework to get the correct side up on the left mitten. Do you do stranded color work????? Get ready for a big surprise coming soon to Serendipity Yarn and Gifts. If you don't come take a class with Robin to get up to speed on your stranded color work knitting.

Have you been waiting for these????

2012-01-15T22:20:00.000-07:00

Lo-Lo is on the shelves at Serendipity Yarn and Gifts. The first person to come into Serendipity on the 16th of January and mention they read my posting from Bar Maids will get a little something extra. I open at 10:00!!

Sataturday Show and Tell

2012-01-14T21:14:00.000-07:00

Some little boy is going to be very happy with his new toy. She made this owl with all her left over sock yarn. That owl is the cutest thing ever.

Lucy's Sheep Camp Wyoming Wool. I have been eyeing this fiber for some time and now that I am knitting 12 for 12 mittens I just had to cast on a pair of basic mittens. I love this color way--Pay Day. In April we will hosting Lucy's Sheep Camp fiber in a trunk show at Serendipity Yarn and Gifts.

Brian's Frites En Mayo hat done!! He is going to be very excited to get a package. Let me see if I can get him to send a photo. :)

Knitting for others

2012-01-13T18:57:00.002-07:00

I have been asked to knit a hat for this young man. He rides for http://blog.fritesenmayo.com/ and for a big guy can really peddle that bike. I watched him ride here in Buena Vista this year. Sometimes I will even drive to Denver to ring my cowbell, that is if I am not handing off water bottles to his team, and cheer his team on.

When he crashes all 6 foot 5" of him can make a very large splash. He is my baby brother, if you ever get a chance to watch the Frites En Mayo Team ride it is a blast.

Here is his hat so far. It has to be the Belgian Flag colors. He is very excited--I am not sure I will be knitting hats for the whole team :) I am really loving stranded knitting!!

Do you have knitting goals for 2012???

2012-01-06T19:14:00.001-07:00

My knitting goal for 2012 is to get better at stranded knitting. Here are my 2nd pair of mittens. Robin and I have started a 12 in 12 mitten group. Would you like to join us? I am in the process of getting a mitten group set up on Ravelry. I hope you will join Robin and myself.

Donna made lots of felted hats last year.

Laurie crocheted this amazing wrap in 2011

Linda knit this jacket and hat this past fall. I love the leaves.

New in 2012

2012-01-01T21:49:00.002-07:00

I have a new found love. This is my Rowan Project to knit along with all of you who are entering in our Knitters Choice Event. Head on over to http://www.ravelry.com/events/knitters-choice-event-sponsored-by-rowan and get signed up. Lot's of you were in Serendipity today getting your yarn. I will not be in the drawing for those wonderful prizes but I still wanted to knit right along with you.

Robin and I are going to knit lots of mittens this year. We will be knitting 12 in 12. There is a group on Ravelry which I joined and this is my first pair. My goal is to become better at color knitting. My first step usually is to get a book and start reading. The book I now have is Selbuvotter--Biography of a Knitting Tradition. I wish there was a class close by I can attend. If any of you know of one please PM me on Ravelry.

Let me just say that I can't put down these projects. I just love to watch it happen right before my eyes. There will be lots of mittens being made at my house this year. Maybe some hats. I have been bitten by the bug for sure. Happy Knitting to all of you in 2012.

Knitted gifts are the best

2011-12-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

Debra has been very busy knitting her gifts!!

Big things going on at Serendipity

2011-12-09T23:53:00.001-07:00

Who out there wants to win a prize??? You can win this kit to knit a beautiful wrap out of Rowan Yarn. The candy canes are all ready for the "Wall of Shawls" next Friday and Saturday. We will be staying open until 7pm both days. Pick a candy cane and enjoy the savings-yep there is even a few 50% off canes in that bunch.

The Knitters Choice Event

2011-12-08T20:41:00.001-07:00

One of the prizes

A few of the other prizes

Here are a few of the prizes for the Knitters Choice Event. For now the number one thing you need to do is become a group member of Serendipity Yarn and Gifts on Ravlery. There will be more information to follow in a few days. I wish I could enter with you all, I will knit a project to be a part of your group and that will be fun. I have been looking at the yarn, I am thinking color work mittens for me, what would you like to knit???? If you are not a knitter don't worry, your turn is coming :) We are having FB February so there will be fun things for you to enter also.

Get it on the needles

2011-12-02T22:06:00.001-07:00

My Recess for Grownups Mittens

I tell my students you can't learn to knit until you get it on the needles and give it a try. I have taken my own advice and started the color work mittens that Annie designed. Check out her new group on Ravelry.
After ripping out twice,( I tried double points, that didn't work for me and the second time I ripped I forgot how to count to 68) I managed to get started. Now it is after 10 at night and I could stay us till midnight knitting on these. I can't wait to get to the color work part. I am hoping some of the knitters at Serendipity will want to join me in this project. We have some very talented knitters that come on Saturday mornings and they know way more about color work than I do. My first problem is I don't really know how to read the pattern but I am willing to try and figure it out as I go. All those colored blocks in the shape of a mitten, how do I know where to change from the palm to the back. I am in hopes magic loop is going to help with that. I will be getting out a few Ann Budd books tonight for my bed time stories. Any way I am excited to learn something new in 2012. I have been wanting to become comfortable with color work for 3 years now, it is high time I get started. More pictures to come and progress reports.

I have one of these done--they are out of my hand spun. We are doing lots more spinning at Serendipity and have some wonderful new colors of roving in. I hope some of you will come spin with us when you can. I better get to bed, there will lots of people coming in for the Buena Vista Chocolate Walk all day tomorrow. It is fun day in our little town plus we have some delicious fudge awaiting any one who comes in the store. Hope to see some of you for knitting and fudge.

Amazing Annie

2011-12-01T22:23:00.001-07:00

Annie wearing her mittens

Annie came in last summer looking for yarn to design some mittens, little did I know while I helped her I was standing next to such an amazing talent. I hope some of her awesomeness rubbed off as I attempt to knit these mittens. The pattern is FREE, yes did I say free. Who wants to join me?? Go to Annie's blog and click on her free pattern. She used the Jamieson's Shetland Spindrift and we have loads of colors to choose from. http://wattsolak.com I know lots of my family who would be so happy if their Aunt Mikki would crack out a pair for them.

Word of the day--GREAT

2011-11-13T17:57:00.001-07:00

What a great day --no knitting today. Addi's baby blanket has out grown all my project bags. I just had to make another and I love these winter scenes. I dug into my grandby's button box and added a couple. I often forget how much I like to sew. Now Addi's blanket has a new home and I am off to watch foot ball with Mike and maybe get it done this weekend.

Addi's blanket, I love these colors

What do you say???

2011-11-09T18:25:00.001-07:00

Madeline Tosh Sock yarn!! How do you knit your socks, toe up of top down??

I really like this color way

If you don't want to knit socks with me you can choose some other wonderful Malabrigo yarn. Le Anne was the first person to pick up two of these skeins. It is my favorite also.

Mounds of M & M's

2011-11-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

There are mounds of MadTosh and Malabrigo squirting out of boxes everywhere at Serendipity

Oh, I have not picked one skein out as of yet, tomorrow may be a different story.

Has it almost been one year???

2011-11-07T21:25:00.002-07:00

My project for now is a blanket for Addison Mae. It is hard for me to believe how quickly this first year of her life has gone by. Tami now has her granddaughter Georgia Grace and Joan has a new grandson Asher. Natalie and Bud asked if I would make her a blanket so I did some deep stash diving for sock yarn. Lots of progress was made on her blanket because I hobbled around most of the day. Big toes and log furniture=pain involved at some point.

Proud Papa's

She was so tiny!!

Addi will be a year old Jan. 6th. I am looking forward to this holiday season because we will be together as a family here in Colorado. I never knew how much fun it is to be a Nana and Papa. If you live here in BV you get so see Joan and Bill and Tami with their grandchildren. This season that approaches is a time of enjoying family and friends. I never want to take any of that for granted.. One of my great pleasures it so make gifts for Addi & Keenan. Keenan will be getting some knitted animal. (He can't wear wool) Photo's to come of that for sure.

This is some of the yarn in Addi's blanket. It was for the Stephen West mystery KAL and the colors did not work together at all. I am loving them in her blanket. Any one getting the itch to knit some socks?? Give me a call at the shop, I think we should have a KAL with a sock pattern.

Deb and Liz

2011-11-06T19:11:00.001-07:00

Just a few photos of our weekend. There was lots of fiber flying around :)

Liz doing a little spinning on the Lady Bug

Deb is such a wealth of knowledge--I learned so much

Who knew you could have this much fun!!

2011-11-03T22:15:00.000-06:00

Here is Kathy's Malabrigo shawl. She wouldn't stand still for me to have her in the photo--her love for purple has rubbed off on me. I have even knitted some purple items. Don't leave this laying around Kathy or you might see me wearing it. The Buena Vista Art Walk will be December 17th, be sure and come in the shop to see shawls our talented knitters will have on display.

These to young ladies were in the shop today having way to much fun, I just had to get a photo.

For those of you who regularly follow my blog-I had to put the hat a week project to rest. I made 10 of the 16. Those last 6 will have to wait while I practice my crochet. (I have to make Addi a crochet blanket before Christmas also) I want of offer a free workshop to people who want to perfect their crocheting skills. On November 22nd from 1:00 to 2:00 in the afternoon I will be providing the opportunity to do just that. This Be-Sweet yarn works up into a dish cloth that will make want to do the dishes. Give us a call at the shop and we can get you signed up.

Knitting on the River

2011-11-01T21:32:00.000-06:00

Robin--knitting on her Day Break while on the river. We are happy to have her home--she has promised more photos and great stories of her 3 week trip on the Grand Canyon

Val's first hat-she used Spud and Chloe sweater yarn-also being creative like she is the use of a stitch marker for the top made it really cute. Way to go Val, there will be more hats to come for this knitter

Our Addie in her pumpkin hat her Nana knit for her.

Oh, to knit like Bobbie

2011-10-27T09:09:00.000-06:00

Bobbie was in picking up a few more skeins of yarns to work on her Christmas knitting one morning. She had not mailed her sweater yet. :) I am very fortunate to see this in person. My photos don't even begin to do it justice. Her daughter is going to love it.

Bobbie has been knitting the Ishbel for her Christmas gifts. This one is out of Noro. It is a quick knit and must be very fun for Bobbie. She's picked up yarn for a number of them. I wish I could get photos of them all. Does any one out there want to cast on and Ishbel with me??? I will knit another for sure, just let me know.

Fleece and Fiber day is fast approaching!! I am very excited for Deb and Liz to spend part of the day with our customers. Bring your book and Deb will be happy to sign it for you. There will be lots of talk about fiber and spinning demonstration on November 5th from 1 to 4 in the afternoon. See you then.

Quaken Aspen finished

2011-10-19T19:54:00.000-06:00

I removed the Quaking Aspen KAL (designed by Courtney Kelley, Kelbourne Woolens) project off the blocking wires tonight. Now I am wearing it as I knit a bit and work on some blogging. I love it, oh yes, this Acacia fiber is so great to work with. Come in the store and just carry a skein around. I even have enough left to work a hat up.

Fun, fun knit. I might not wrap this one up for holiday giving. It just might be a gift to myself.

You can't make just one

2011-10-17T07:42:00.001-06:00

Saturday Jody held her second workshop with these lovely ladies. They are all planning another one of these fun quick knits. There was lots of chatter about making them as gifts for others. You can knit one in about 2 hours I bet.

We have bees in our bonnets

2011-10-13T20:43:00.002-06:00

Last night just before closing a gal came in wanting to knit something quick for her grandchildren. Needless to say Joan and I got caught up in the frenzy! We said "Let's knit some hat for our grandchildren too." Joan got the short end of the stick as she has a few more grandchildren than I. One of mine can't wear wool or other fibers. Don't worry he will get his goodies in a package--it is orange also but in the shape of a Hot Wheel car.

Joan can knock out hats quicker than anyone I know. She has her new grandson's finished and I am sure will have the other boys done by the am. They are so much fun to knit we think we will do our next workshop on a snowman hat. Keep that in mind. I will kit it up so you will have all the supplies, be looking for dates and your kits. This was so much fun. Addi will look cute as ever, I think I even want one.

Here is another quick knit. It's she just the cutest little hippo. Sue also knit her up in one night and maybe part of another day. Sue is a very fast knitter, this little lady makes me want to cast on a animal. Hmmmmm, that might be a good way to use up some ends of skeins. Any one want to join me in knitting a little animal a month. It could be fun.

October Knit Along

2011-10-04T22:07:00.000-06:00

We are getting ready to start this KAL--be watching for more information on the blog, facebook, and Ravelry. I can't wait to get started.

I love the smell of sheep

2011-10-04T07:39:00.000-06:00

My new friend Mary whom helped us all with our spinning. She helped Becky so much that she owns that wheel she is learning to spin on. Becky welcome to a new world of fiber. You will never go back.

My dad is a retired sheep shearer. It was fun to watch these little guys get hair cuts and remember when I was the wool stomper. That meant standing in the bottom of a 10 foot bag tromping on the fleeces until I could climb out. Those wool bags weights 400 pounds (I think) when I was done. Dad I wish I would of paid more attention to all your fiber knowledge--I am learning it now.

These little guys were so cute I just had to take a picture. Now to look at all my fiber purchases and get started on what I want to spin. It was a great weekend in Taos. Can't wait till next year.

Calling all Girls

2011-09-23T21:19:00.000-06:00

The ladies are coming out of the wood work and along with them bringing all these hand knits they have been working on throughout the summer. I wanted to share some of this talent with my readers.

Oh, Tami and I are headed to Fort Collins where Tami will be giving a drop spindle demo and we are taking all sorts of from items from the store for people to see.

Hey, Colorado Fiber Artists - come see us at the KnitWear Fiber Arts Experience on Sunday in Fort Collins at the Lincoln Center! We will have a booth with giveaways and fun things to buy! See you there.

When we are finished up with that on Sunday we are going to stop by to see this young lady. Can't wait for a great weekend of sharing my love for fiber and spending time with ladies young and old.

Fall Fun

2011-09-18T17:52:00.001-06:00

Returning for another year were the Durango Knitters. We love having them, they are always a delight and I can't wait to see all the fun projects they are making. Thanks for coming to hang out with us.

The Buena Vista Fall Fun Run Fairy stopped by the shop on Saturday. If you were in the race you saw her wishing all of you good luck and granting running wishes. She was very busy this week end because she learned to work some magic with her knitting needles also. She can now do cables!

Kathy finished her KAL--she was not sure about her choice of colors because it was a mystery KAL with Stephen West. I love hers and Tami made a nice one also. Mine has been ripped out and placed in a plastic bag (Time out for you) to think about what it would like to be. It did not look anything like Kathy's amazing piece of art work.

Hatting like mad :)

2011-09-13T19:34:00.001-06:00

We had 11 women come to Serendipity on Saturday morning for the Mobius Hat Class. Sharon Edwards taught the class, Jody and I were listening in from the bottom of the stairs and those gals had way to much fun. People came from near and far, Betty even drove over from Ouray that morning. Husbands came along for the trip , while ladies knitted hats they were fishing and hiking our mountains. I can't wait to see the hats. We had just checked in a wide variety of new Noro colors for them the choose from. That may be my next hat in the marathon hat knitting I am doing. Oh, just incase you want a pattern Sharon agreed to let us sell them in the store. Give us a call.

This is hat #3in "Call me Crazy" and I couldn't stop knitting on this project. It is out of my hand spun but I know any worsted weight yarn will work perfectly for this slouch hat.

Thanks Linda for modeling. I am getting some hand spinning done up so I can be ready to celebrate Spinning month at Serendipity in November at Serendipity. We also have a intermediate class taught by Janet coming up soon. I need to practice so I will be ready to learn some new techniques.

Call me Crazy

2011-09-10T07:26:00.001-06:00

This is hat number ONE. I am not a very good hat knitter and in my mind the only way to get better is to start knitting them. My first hat is the Star Crossed Slouchy Beret and it looks like it might fit people. My goal is to knit one hat a week until January 1. I have hat #2 on the needles and hope to finish it by the middle of the week. It would go faster if I was not on size one needles and applying beads :)

If there would of been on open spot in our mobius hat class today that could of been hat #2 checked off the list. These three ladies (from Greeley) were in store getting all the supplies needed to partake in class this morning bright and early. There will be 11 people casting on and making this hat, they will have some new wonderful colors of Noro that we unpacked this week to choose from. More photo's to come of their time here in Buena Vista

Lot's of shawls showing up now that it is a bit cooler. Come in and let us help you get one started for fall.

Ready Set--Let's KAL

2011-09-06T20:09:00.000-06:00

I spent a few hours last week knitting the KAL (Gradient Serendipity Shawl) by Marly Bird.

Mike and I took a road trip so I got lots of knitting done. Come join us if you haven't already gotten your yarn and pattern. We will start it on Monday the 12th from 5 to 7 at Serendipity if you happen to be in town. If not join us on line at the Serendipity Group on Ravlery.

These two ladies will be joining us-they were the first to purchase their kits. I can't wait to see every one's photos.

Rozetti Marina has arrived

2011-08-31T19:58:00.000-06:00

Janice loved this new project-she took home two skeins to make some Christmas gifts.

I can't believe one of these is upside down :O Who took that picture?????

Simple as slipping loops on needles. What do you all think about me doing a workshop with this yarn? You come in buy the yarn and I will get you started. This will be the first of many workshops we want to offer our customer at Serendipity.

Should stitch markers make me feel smile???

2011-08-29T19:38:00.003-06:00

I couldn't help myself, I just had to take a photo of these. They just make me smile every time I SM :) I am finding reasons to put them on projects when normally I would just remember what I need to do at that point.

Here is my latest knit--a honeycomb cowl. One of my favorite color ways in Malabrigo is Stonechat. This yarn has been balled and ready for a project for months. I started a couple days ago and like a good book I can't put it down.

Here is little more color for you. We are getting excited about the Dyed in the Wool class that will be taking place on September 18th.

Look what a skein of the Stimulus Package with create!! This is a beautiful "Citron" shawl.

My new favorite sweater

2011-08-27T19:16:00.002-06:00

I lost some yarn in the flower bed after the bike race, thanks to my co-worker Jody she found most of it. I love my new sweater and Linda (a good friend and Saturday morning knitter) purchased enough to make hers today. I would term the sweater very easy.

It is just the perfect weight of sweater to ride down to work after a evening of nice rain. It can get chilly here in the mountains. My favorite part of this sweater is the back. I like the was it is knit from one sleeve to the next. Come in and I will talk you through it all. :)

Why I make my own yarn!

2011-08-22T10:54:00.004-06:00

I have to pinch myself sometimes to realize I made this yarn. This pattern is called "Seaweed Shawl" and shortly after the pattern arrived I finished up this yarn. It is a match for the project. I actually am spinning some more for my sister in law-Lynne to make her one. The shawl is a very easy knit with some fun lace work right at the end.

This is latest arrival at the store. It is the Bijou Basin and the staff here at Serendipity is gearing up to do our first every exclusive Bijou Basin KAL. On September 12th it will begin, the yarn has arrived and the designer is putting the finishing touches on our pattern. There will be lots more details in our news letter. I know what colors I want but am letting you all have first crack at the yarns. Let us know how we can help.

Look who's arriving in Buena Vista

2011-08-18T21:31:00.004-06:00

I am spinning some brown fiber for my friend Lynne on my Matchless. It is looking like it will work for a shawl. More photos to come of that later.

The cute as a bug "Lady Bug" I might be able to haul her around very easy too.

I am waiting for them to arrive tomorrow at Serendipity. Robin purchased the first one in the store and she is planning on selling her other wheel and just keeping the side kick. She loves it and I think it has already taken a plane ride with her to Florida. Now I one said I would only own one wheel--I may be rethinking that after I saw this beauty at spinning last week. She can be moved around very easy compared to my wheel. Don't get me wrong I love the Matchless from Schacht but it is a bit hard to haul around. If you are interested come by the store soon. I know Janet already has her eye on a side kick. I think they will be gone quickly.

You can come and try all of these wheels at Serendipity plus others. See you soon.

I need some back to school knitting

2011-08-17T19:39:00.002-06:00

Sharon is driving over from Denver the morning of September 10th to teach this cool hat made out of 2 skeins of Noro. Magic loop, Jeni's stretchy bind off, and Cat Bordhi's mobius cast on will just be a few of this things you will learn creating this very unique hat. Sharon says we can't knit just one. This is her daughter wearing her hat. Come join us.

Janet was playing in the kool-aid the other day. She let me try my hand at it--come play with us on the 18th of September and learn to do some dyeing. It was really fun, I have Joan knitting up the samples of the yarn I did so you can take a peek. We will be doing lots of different techniques using kool-aid in this class. Be watching for other classes at Serendipity. I have been compiling information and am excited about our Fall 2011 classes. We are also adding some workshops--more to come on those very soon

Mike and Sandy

2011-08-16T21:26:00.002-06:00

I wanted you all to meet Mike and Sandy. They have been knitting away and we get to share some to the projects on our blog page today. Sandy is making the neck warmers using Noro-she let me try it on. I think I might have to make one of these for walking to work on chilly days this fall. Mike took this 12th century pattern and made a spread sheet to make his hat.

He is using some of our Debbie Bliss yarn. It is amazing!!! I can't believe how even his stitches are. Way to go you two. We will see you back in town when the Fall Color Run is going on.

Mike and Sandy

Liberty is a good thing

2011-08-13T08:04:00.002-06:00

We knit every Friday morning at the Roastery (in October the addition with be done so we can meet outside) and knit for an hour or so. Val has been knitting with us for a while now and I have been doing a happy dance for her. After trying a few projects and getting discouraged she came to me and said, " Mikki I want to do the Potato Chip Scarf". I was thrilled the day she brought in her scarf and Val continues to knit right along. Thanks Val for your persistence in learning a new skill. I can't wait to see her wearing it around BV soon. I will post more photos.

After admiring Val's work I looked around the table and found all three of us were knitting with Liberty Wool so I just had to take a photo. I am working on a sweater, Val and Joan are doing Potato Chip Scarves. I plan to knit~knit~knit on this sweater so I can have it done by September 9th. Judy Pearce brings a group of ladies up a couple times a year from the Denver area and they have this amazing show and tell. If I keep at it maybe my sweater could participate in show and tell. :)

Project finished-my hand spun in a Seaweed Scarf. Knitting with hand spun is great. I have some more fiber on the wheel and hope to have enough to make another shawl.

What's on your needles

2011-08-09T21:49:00.004-06:00

Finished my Linen Stitch Scarf this weekend. Mike (my husband) said the only way he would take my picture was if I posted that this photo was taken by professional photographer "Mike Martin" I wish we would of kept track how many people are knitting this scarf. I would venture to guess well over 50. I hope people will send photo's if they read this. It would be fun to post them.

Patti and her friends from Colorado Springs were up on Friday. Thanks ladies for making one of your day trip stops Serendipity. She went home with the new kit by Sandra McIver, "The Coat of Many Colors"

Kathy finished her Day Break. She is now knitting the West Knits mystery KAL with us. These are out of the box colors for Kathy, did I mention she LOVES purple. I love seeing her wearing this beauty around BV. Way to go Kathy.

Knitting Goodness

2011-08-05T20:42:00.002-06:00

Toni finished her shawl--Allot of our knitters have made this shawl and we all think it is worth knitting . I am having trouble keeping the book in stock because people love it so much.

These two fine ladies were spending some time here in Buena Vista and they purchased wool early in the week and then came in just before going home to show us their projects. Liberty wool makes such fun stripes and the bottom purple is the Weekend yarn. It was so much fun to see the progress and how much fun they were having knitting.

These were my purchases for the KAL mystery shawl with Stephen West. I have the first nugget clue done and am waiting for 5:30 Monday morning to get the next one. I don't get to post any photo's of it on here until it is finished. It is going to be an experience for me to knit something I don't know the outcome of the project. Some people might say I have a control issue :) Robin, Tami, and Kathy are joining along, I don't think it is to late to get your sock yarn and join us.

Looking for a new project to knit

2011-07-27T22:29:00.002-06:00

This is my design--I know I can't believe it either. I just cast on 6 stitches and started creating. Is it ok to say, I LOVE it. It is still damp but by morning I should be able to take it to the shop.
Now I am on the look out for a new pattern to knit until Aug. 1st when I start the KAL with WestKnits on Ravelry. Here are a few ideas of "What was I thinking?" knitting. Apparently they weren't.

At least I could see the customers in this one and stay warm when the cooler is blowing right on me :)

I would have to find the perfect orange shoes to pull this one off--oh by the way sir--do you have this in a size 11 women's?? I need them to go with my new sweater.

My fellow Serendipity Diva's would have to run the cash register because I would be to busy looking like a blue raspberry snow cone with really long legs. It might stop traffic on the street for sure. I think I will just pull out my sweater and keep working on that, what do you think??

Summer Spin Fest

2011-07-24T16:42:00.003-06:00

Pat became interested in knitting when on her way to the library (she was in the 8th grade) she noticed some ladies doing their craft in a knit shop. She poked her head in and boldly asked??? What are you all doing? I am surprised she still knits--her first project was argyle socks for her father who used them to cover his golf clubs!!

Pat like to create anything with fiber using some of her favorite color, mauve's and blues. She loves to read and is an avid quilter. Pat is an amazing lady, she quilts, knits and also likes to paint. She just finished up these pink socks--look for her around BV, she will be styling in all her hand knit socks she has been crankin out.
Nancy, Karen and Jan stopped by earlier this summer to shop and let us know about the summer spin fest. Gather up your fiber, wheel, show and tell, some lunch and a coffee cup and meet me over in Divide. There will be a market and lots of spinning going on. I am looking forward to a fun day with these ladies. See you there, it starts at 9:30 and is right off Hwy 24.

I miss this lady

2011-07-18T22:12:00.003-06:00

Robin was gone for 3 weeks taking care of her mom. It has now been 4 weeks since last seeing her and she is missed. She was one busy lady, besides taking care of her mother, she knit a sweater (yes in 9 days) did some spinning on her new wheel. It is pictured in the back ground, and prepared lots of fiber for spinning. I can't wait to see it all first hand next time we are together.

Just another quick reminder about this book, we now have them in the store. I have my copy and have been pouring over the pages. It is like a text book on fiber and sheep breeds. If you have any spare time drop by and take a look.

I heart knitting and teaching knitting

2011-07-12T21:51:00.003-06:00

Lauren from Greenville, SC and Pam from Nashville, NC came in for knitting lessons today. I thought it was so special that Pam would take a lesson with her daughter in-law and they made a memory here at Serendipity. It was a delight to teach them and I look forward to hearing from them as they come yearly on vacation to our mountains. I will be headed out tomorrow after work with Keenan and his mom to take care of Addison. (these are our grand kids) Once again I will be gone from the store until next week--thanks to all you Serendipity Diva's for covering for me. Oh, if you see this Papa wandering the streets of Buena Vista buy him supper. LOL He will be alone for a few days.

I hope Addison enjoys her stay with us as much as know I am going to. We will see if she sleeps like a baby being away from her parents for the first time. Wish me luck. I will be knitting on my sweater while away. Maybe I can post some progress photos. Catch you all next week sometime.

And she asks??? Mikki how are you doing on your sweater??

2011-07-07T14:44:00.002-06:00

Harolita was in last week and asked---Mikki how are you doing on your sweater??? Well, I saved myself by at least having the sleeve cast on. :) Harolita purchased her yarn last time she was up looking for buttons and we are knitting this together.

My 4 brothers and sister would say I am little competitive and I can't help that having all those siblings. So I am knitting like a mad women after she came in. Her sweater is below, I better get with it. Let me just say this is a very fun knit and easy yarn to work with. Come in and check out my sweater.
I love that this style will fit all of us women, even me. See you soon.

Harolita" sweater, I hope to post photos of us both wearing them by the end of August. It is good to have a knitting goal.

Finding Buttons

2011-06-27T11:08:00.003-06:00

Harelita Bohrer from Ramah, Colorado came to find buttons for her latest knitted sweater. The color here does not do it justis at all. It is a rich beautiful purple and fits her like a glove. Not all of us learn to knit with a cable knit sweater as a first project but that is what Harelita did. In between being the post master in Simla Colorado she did find time to knit which is her passion and work in her yard. It has been brought to my attention that she is a amazing gardener. I wish she lived closer I would take a trip to see her flowers.
When Harelita was in Buena Vista her projects on the needles were a brown wool sweater, a lime green sweater, and a crochet table runner. I know that she went home with enough Liberty Wool to make a sweater which I just purchased also to knit the same sweater. I better get to knitting so that the next time Harelita and her husband come up (he is a fisherman) I will at least have more than a gauge swatch done.

Oh yes!! This is my job.

2011-06-24T20:34:00.002-06:00

Felted Acorns
Ina Bernard from Pueblo Colorado was teaching needle felting booth right next to me. I may or may not of come home with some of her art. Ina is a delightful person and loves what she does. The felted acorns are cool for sure.
P.J. and Bonnie working the loom. at the Heart of Colorado Fiberarts Guild.
Yep, I get paid sometimes to spin in public, I am such a new spinner I was not sure I would be the best person for the job but I had so much fun. Thanks Tami for my afternoon in Salida.

What is a M1L, Mikki????

2011-06-23T20:52:00.002-06:00

Cathy and Carolin discovering how to make 1 Left. We were all working on the Day Break this evening--it was a great time for sure.
Our Day Break knitters, you can still come and join us.
These two are very quick learners!!
Val and Laura showing the team how the day break looks in the photo and on Laura.

It snowed on the mountain

2011-06-20T19:57:00.002-06:00

Roxanna brought in some of her new crochet projects She picked up yarn for a baby blanket also. One of my problems working at Serendipity is that when people bring in projects I want to make one. This one included. We just checked in 50 bags of yarn that would work wonderfully for this project!!! It was so cold this morning I wish I had this to curl up under. Thanks for sharing Roxanna.

I put this in the mail for my good friend and sister in law this morning. It is Blue Sky Alpaca (50% alpaca & 50% silk) It was a dream to knit with and blocked out beautiful.

You never know who is going to wander in to Serendipity. Joan is helping Katie pick out some yarn. Katie is very good friends with my daughter in California. I loved meeting Katie and spending a little time with her. She fell in love with Colorado, maybe she will come back. We would love that.

Rita has taken off in her spinning. Here is her latest, she was in looking for a project to make with her yarn. We all thought a cowl would be the perfect knit for her new creation.

this makes me SMILE

2011-06-16T07:29:00.002-06:00

Maddie and her mom drove in from Omaha, NE and found our Jelly Cats. These four cute little guys went home with Maddie. She was so pleased to add them to her collection. We have some really adorable animals, I think maybe Addison will need another one when I go to visit next time.
This is our friend Linda, I have posted about her before. She is learning new techniques all the time with her knitting. Here is her latest, a head band for her daughter who is suffering an illness in a state far away from her mom. Linda will be gone for some time helping her child (they are always our child not matter how old they are). We helped Linda pick yarn and projects to give her something to keep her hands busy while at the hospital. I think by the end of the week mother and daughter will have matching head bands. Linda, all of us here at Serendipity will be missing you and thinking of you often.

Oh, to spin like Chery

2011-06-11T06:39:00.002-06:00

There are some new colors of Madeline tosh in--we are doing a knit along with the Day Break starting on the 23rd of June. Come pick two colors of sock yarn and join us on the lawn. Lots of ladies are getting thier supplies to knit this project. I hope you can too.
Chery Allison and her husband Marvin, and sister Wendy stopped by . I want to spin like Chery when I grow up!! She learned to knit at 5 years old when her mom wanted to keep her little hands busy because there was a new baby in the house. Some of those first projects resembled a bird nest but she continued to knit because it was what her mom was doing.
4 years ago she taught herself to spin. She loves to create fingering and lace weight yarns. I hope my yarn will look like this some day. Chery's lace shawls and stranded sweaters are amazing. In the short time she was in the shop I learned lots-I wish I could take a class or two from her, she teaches knitting in her home town. As you can see her favorite color is turquoise, blue, and purple. She also likes dark green. Chery and Marvin were on their way to do one of her hobbies (besides knitting and spinning) camping out. They are going to Alaska. See you next time you are through Chery and Marvin. It was a delight to spend time with you.

Keep out those winter wool sweaters

2011-06-06T20:41:00.002-06:00

Allie (wearing her newly knitted sweater) and Lara

Alli came down from Leadville to pick out some yarn for her next sweater. A good friend taught Alli to knit a hat while attending a meeting. She needed a project to make the meeting fly by like lots of knitters do. That was 5 years ago. Alli likes to create lots of knitted projects, this month it's sweaters but she loves to knit hats and socks also.

Her favorite colors are green and purple. Even without knowing it she will pick these two colors for projects. I think she went home with green and purple for her sweater!!

Alli is passionate about doing a community meal in Leadville 4 times a week. She loves preparing a colorful beautiful food for anyone who would like to attend. Creating a place for people to gather and enjoy eating a meal together is a talent of hers. Alli keeps busy with her first love-pottery which she has been doing for 8 years. Pottery is her favorite hobby but knitting keeps her sane.

Here is one reason you should not put away your wool items! My husband and I took a drive up to the top of Cotton Wood Pass--I wish I would of had a sweater. There is still lots of snow up there and it was chilly.

My weekend

2011-06-03T19:46:00.002-06:00

Me and my two grandkido's. Keenan is swinging around in his suit in the backgroud.

I am back and had a great weekend. I wanted to post a couple photo's of my knitted jacket. It was such fun to get all dressed up. Knitting this project made me excited about knitting another sweater. The past three days have been spent thinking about what I want to start. I think it might be a Liberty Wool sweater. Any one have a suggestion, I am open.

the Fleece & Fiber sourcebook

2011-06-02T21:47:00.002-06:00

Deborah Robson stopped by one afternoon and she let us take a sneak peek at her new book after I commented on her cool shirt. The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook has more than 200 fibers from animal to spun yarns. This book is a great resource for knitters, crocheters, weavers, spinners, animal lovers, (those photo's are ones I just couldn't stop looking at) and the simply curious. Being a new spinner myself I found this book a must have for my library. Here is the way cool part, Deborah spun all the samples for the book. It took 4 years to finish this project and her hands are never idle, she is working on some new fiber goodness all the time. Tami will be getting a couple of these books soon, if you are interested give us a call and we can get some extra ones in.

Let the Party Begin

2011-05-23T08:42:00.002-06:00

Just a photo of why I won't be blogging for the next few days. Addi Mae Martin and lots of extended family will be having one "BIG" celebration starting the middle of the week. I won't be in the shop for the next few days soooooooo, before I take off I wanted to share a few photos with all my followers.

Maryann and her friends were her taking some much needed time off and enjoying our mountains for a weekend. They are visiting from Philadelphia and stopped by Serendipity before going to the hot springs. She left with some of our new letters spelling out her last name. These are so much fun and now we have them in colored and black and white. Addison has a set in her room-I think it will be my new "go to" wedding gift for sure.

Linda made this sweater for her granddaughter out of the Liberty Wool. We just checked in a shipment of brand new bright colors for the spring. Come by and check them out--I love this wool, it can be thrown in the washer and the pattern support is great. Lots of fun projects to knit.

Serendipity has a Dragon

2011-05-19T21:04:00.003-06:00

Our beautiful friend Lucy just finished this scarf. She meets with me on Thursdays for "The Finish Line" and she is learning so much. Lucy can now follow a pattern in English and not need very much help. Lucy has helped me to become a much better instructor, come join us anytime.

We had a dragon visit in Serendipity one afternoon!!! This dragon proves there are many uses for yarn--it doesn't always have to be a knitted wearable item. Thanks Hannah (she is 7) for coming in. Hannah was in a play called the "Dragons Birthday"

A Latte is a very good thing

2011-05-17T23:20:00.002-06:00

A story of Serendipity .... and puppy love.

After realizing that their house was just too empty without a dog, Robin and Bill decided to start looking for a new friend at the beginning of April. They signed up with golden retriever rescue, searched all the local animal shelter sites, and contacted breeders they knew. The home visit from golden retriever rescue put them on the official list....yeah, they passed! After requesting to meet a few of the dogs, they were finally offered an adoption possibility but with a heavy heart Robin turned the dog down, turned out she (the dog, not Robin) had some real social problems.

At that moment two Mondays ago, Sally Anderson walked into Serendipity. "How are you," she said to Robin. "Okay," Robin replied. "You don't sound okay," replied Sally. And Robin told her the story of Daisy the golden she had just opted not to meet. And miracle of miracles Sally's response was..."My daughter raises goldens in Salida and she has some pups. Let me call her." And so, a wonderful story condensed, Latte is now part of Robin and Bill's family.

Wonderful connections are made at Serendipity.

One Lady Bug is leaving town

2011-05-12T07:18:00.001-06:00

Marsha Rose of Gunnison drove over in the snow yesterday to take her spinning class with Janet. Marsha has been knitting off and on for 50 years. She has worked with most any craft that involves string. Right now she is knitting toward becoming a master hand knitter-level one. I think she might take a little time off from that as she learns to spin on her new Lady Bug.

She like to knit lace and challenging patterns. She will be no doubt making some yarn for these projects soon. She picked up the art of spinning fiber into wool quickly. Marsha's favorite color is purple and a sprinkle of green once in a while. Getting out of her comfort "colors" has been a little hard so we sent her home with some purple alpaca to spin.

Marsha loves her family and they have 2 pets-Ivy the cat and Luna the dog. She spends her spare time knitting and working on her I-pad and computer. She will be watching some U-Tube videos on spinning for sure.

Have fun spinning Marsha and we hope to see you soon.

Can I just say

2011-05-10T08:37:00.002-06:00

The "Knit Wits"
Can I just say how much fun a Saturday at Serendipity can be. Just when I think I can't pack any more fun in a day a group like this shows up. The "Knit Wits" from Colorado Springs drove up to spend a morning with us. They were a delight to have around and I was inspired to knit some new items after seeing some of the sweaters they had on.

Helper Monkey's have arrived

2011-05-04T20:58:00.004-06:00

Doesn't this just look like spring--we are all awaiting some warmer weather here in Buena Vista. It is not coming quick enough for me so I enjoy looking at all these bright colors. These little bunnies are really cute.
Twisted Angelina started hanging out with Clyde, Darby, Nikki, and lots of other helper monkey's. Two of these are getting ready to take a trip out to California with the U.S. Postal Service in the morning.
Mary Grace was attacked by the Helper Monkey's today. She walked all around the store with Darby and Ruby hanging off her legs. Thanks MG for playing with Joan and myself today. There may be a career in modeling for you someday.
Here is a pile of bright colors and cute Cuties. I would of never thought monkey's could be this much fun.

10 years of knitting, that is a lot of stitches

2011-04-29T21:26:00.004-06:00

These ladies have been coming to Buena Vista for 10 years as a group of knitters. Not everyone was in the shop today for this photo but I managed to corral a few of them so I could share some of their faces with you all too. The Serendipity Diva's were invited to their party tonight to celebrate along with them. I can't begin to tell you how I loved walking into Liar's Lodge and seeing all those women knitting. I will see if I can get Tami to take a few photo's of their "Show and Tell" tomorrow so I can post them. It is fun to see all the projects they have been creating.

I want to see you all at our sale on Sunday!! Maybe you can meet some of these ladies there also--it is going to be so much fun. I can't wait. See you soon.

Lady Bug, Lady Bug Fly Away

2011-04-19T20:28:00.002-06:00

Meg Castle has been talking about coming to Serendipity for months her husband mentioned as he was sipping fresh brewed coffee and patiently waiting for Meg to shop. Meg is from Stillwater and loves to stop by a couple times a year. This new blocking kit now makes it's home in a new state.
Janet taught a spinning class on Saturday and Cheryl and Linda tried out the new Lady Bug spinning wheel Tami brought back from Schacht in Boulder. One Lady Bug already flew out of the store to a new home with Cheryl. I now have a Matchless at my house!! Come by and check out our new spinning supplies.

Reasons to Celebrate

2011-04-14T21:27:00.002-06:00

Celebrate Women on May 1st with us. Joan has been busy getting all the prizes gathered up for the big day. Come get your tickets so you will be eligible to win one of these wonderful donations. (oh and did I mention we have a BIG sale that day also) We live in such a supportive giving community--I love where I live.
Here is a reason to celebrate!! New shelves for Tami's office, we are all so excited about this new project. I am doing the happy dance that Tami will have this place to do her work. There will be more photo's to follow.
Construction going on, isn't it great.

2011-04-12T14:10:00.001-06:00

Rapunzel knits & spins! http://ow.ly/4wrzw

Why Do You Knit?

2011-04-11T20:52:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to let you know we have lots of signed copies of Joanna Johnson's books in the store. She was so nice to leave some with us.

I finished my wedding jacket!! And yes it fits--I love it. I will hang it in the shop for a few weeks. I really can't believe how well it turned out and I only had about 10 feet of yarn left over. That is way to close for comfort I would say. Photo's below:

Why I knit :). After I finished the jacket much time was spent thinking about what to make next. Joanna had on the Citron shawl which is in Knitty winter 2009. Over 6500 people have knit this cute shawl. I have casted it on in some mini mochi and can't sleep at night because I want to see what the next color will look like. I am loving knitting it and take a look at my new bag----we just got them in and I had to bring one home with my project tucked safely in side.
Look at my Citron Shawl, it is really a fun knit and you beginners can join in. I can get you started with some very fun yarns. I also have the cast on's after the Denver knitters were here. This knitter still is only knitting one project at a time so I will have to wait to start the Maude by Julie Weisenberger. What kind of knitter are you???? I would love to see a comment or two on our blog.

2011-04-11T15:50:00.001-06:00

Those spinning terms - http://ow.ly/4wqUw

change is oh so good!!

2011-04-08T21:04:00.002-06:00

Linda finished her sweater out of the Liberity Wool. Her granddaughter is going to be so proud to wear this gift from her Gram.

From this to.................................................................

This!! I am so happy for Tami to get a new office with some nice peaceful colors to work in. Ted was busy painting while the Denver knitters were busy looking around the shop. I was way to busy today to get photo's of the group, maybe tomorrow a bunch of them will stop long enough for me to get a photo. Busy, Busy, Busy is what we are here in BV. Buzzzzz by, lots of fun will be had for sure.

*don't be alarmed, Ted is just trying to get those bright colors covered up with some primer. I will keep you posted on the progress.

Saturday at Serendipity

2011-04-03T22:48:00.003-06:00

We started the day with Joanna Johnson and her family joining us for her book signing, there are still signed books in the store if you were out of town. Beth, one of our Knotty Knitters purchased a few books for the younger members in her family.

Later in the afternoon another group of "Naughty Knitters" joined us for a mobius class. I loved teaching them, they were all a delight. Donna brought this group together for a knitting retreat here in BV. They all did a mystery knit and here is Twisted Angelina hanging out with two of the mystery monsters. Notice one of the monsters has her mobius on.

Get Ready For Saturday

2011-03-30T19:17:00.003-06:00

Joanna Johnson will be in the store on Saturday signing her books. Freddie is so cute, Joanna sent him down and Twisted Angelina jumped right in the photo. She is happy to have someone her size hanging out at Serendipity. We will see you on Saturday from 11 to 12. It will be a fun filled day for sure.
I couldn't help but post a few photo's of this new linen yarn. Looking at the color choices makes me happy, happy, happy!

The View

2011-03-26T08:23:00.002-06:00

Just snapped this photo of the view out my front window this morning--it is to be up in the 40's today, I love still wearing a wool sweater to work!! Speaking of wool sweaters--here is my Talullah for the wedding. It is not until the end of May but I wanted to get a good start just in case we have fitting issues.
Things that I am learning while making this project. I can (yes I can) sew beads on and have them all facing the outside. That took a bit of tink, tink, but I am pleased with the results. Oh, I also love this wool bamboo yarn. Lesson number 2-I can sew a sleeve in and have it look good. I think a little more blocking will be in order when the project is complete. So far so good, it is a good feeling when a knitted garment fits. Would you not agree? I have donated numerous items to people I love and even ones I don't know because the said item didn't fit me.Last days off were still about fiber! I met my dad at Terry and Annie's to visit their alpacas. Of course I brought home some fiber. I am hoping to spin some fingering weight to make a shawl. I am thankful for my dad, he does have a love for good fleeces and toted me around to sheep shows and wool festivals for years hoping some of his love would rub off on me. It took a few years but I have arrived.

Terry, Annie and Dad looking at this pretty little lady. I don't know if dad reads me blog, but there will be a surprise coming his way soon. Photo's to come of that plus Serendipity will have some of Annie's yarn and fiber in the future.

To Sniff --Or Not to Sniff

2011-03-19T08:20:00.003-06:00

Can you tell who is sniffing the Malabrigo--yep you guessed it, Twisted Angelina!! We just got in some new colors and she rooted her way right in to do some yarn sniffing. How they can get those colors amazes me. I just love looking at it.
Charity Knitters are growing in number as are all the baby items they are knitting for the Ronald McDonald house in Colorado Springs. Joan packed a big box of goodies to head that direction next time someone makes a trip to the Springs. Come join these ladies for a fun filled morning any Wednesday from 10 to 12.
Look what Debbie Tyber just won. She was the first to comment on our face book page about the yarn on Saint Pats day. After winning she and her husband wanted to get out of town so what better place to take a drive than Serendipity. Be watching for more goodies you can win also.

All About Robin

2011-03-14T20:46:00.003-06:00

Robin brought in her swatch for the sweater today--I told her she should frame it. It is beautiful.
Lolita and her babies that are about 2 hours old
So what I'm working on now is spinning the fiber from Nebula, a CVM/Corriedale sheep who lives at Wildcraft Fiber Farm with my friend Jane. I've known Nebula for about a year now and I help take care of her and the rest of the sheep and chickens. Nebula was sheared in November and I've been cleaning, picking, carding, and spinning her fiber since then. I'm also preparing the fiber from our brown sheep Padma.

This will be the first time that I've gone from sheep to garment and it's exciting. But it's made more exciting because I take care of these sheep and really love them. I've got three skeins of Nebula's wool plied for a dk weight. I'm going to knit a cabled vest.

We're expanding our farm animals. March will bring 3 alpacas and a new ewe, Lolita with her two lambs. ( pictured above) We want to have some white fiber for dyeing.

I've also got....Hanne Falkenberg jacket, cashmere estonian lace scarf, top down sweater, teeny tiny lace scarf on 000's started and in various baskets.

Craftiness...I guess i don't think of it that way. I like to make things and I like to figure out how things are made. I've knit since I was about 7. I'm not a big sewer, but I've made outdoor gear for years and have always enjoyed figuring out how to make gear that keeps us warmer and dryer...dog booties, poagies, sea kayak gear, hoodies, just to name a few.

Other art forms...mostly I knit and spin. I spent many years making stained glass panels and lamps, but don't want to block any more views with any more pieces. And I've done beadwork. I keep wanting to knit beaded bags, but I just can't make myself string all those seed beads. I used to weave and I'm starting to think I'd like to get back into that.

Pasttimes....love to skate and tele ski in the winter. In the summer, I ride my bike and paddle my duckie down the river. spend time with friends and family. listen to music. travel and camp. Love being a retired educator. Still keep my hand in it by being on the school board as I still care deeply about education and school reform. And I love being part of the Serendipity community both by working there one day a week and helping with some of the behind the scenes technology.

Three Young Chicks

2011-03-12T19:13:00.002-07:00

Look how much fun we were having on Friday with these ladies from the front range. Serendipity has a truck load of new stuffed animals--come on in and see me favorite purple pony.

2011-03-12T07:20:00.001-07:00

Great article in the Denver post about soldiers knitting in Afghanistan - http://ow.ly/4d3Mu

Rocky Mountain High

2011-03-10T22:40:00.003-07:00

Twisted Angelina is high (sugar high that is) on these new sweet delights that are now in Serendipity. They are a Colorado product from the Hammond Candy in Denver. One Christmas I toured this factory and enjoyed every minute of the experience. There are a number of flavors and I always tuck one are two in a box when I mail it to California to our grandson. He loves them and I think his mom may have developed a fondness for them also. The colors are so beautiful.

Gayle (just one of the lovely ladies that work at our local library) stopped by to have a cup of coffee with us and purchased this new scarf. Joan and I just finished unpacking them, this one happens to be a 100% linen scarf. There are 4 different styles, I will have to wait until I put one in my pile to take home, you all need to see them first. :)

If you have butterfingers you can still knit

2011-03-09T07:39:00.003-07:00

Tuesday nights we knit at Daughter's from 5 to 7 and some have been know to stay later. There are lots of chips and salsa and it is Taco Tuesday.
Jackie and Janet, Jackie is knitting her first sock and Janet just casted on some new Liberty Wool to make the ruffle scarf.
Bob joined us for a short while before taking his lovely bride home (Janet) and jokingly said butterfingers and knitting, hmmmmm, does that go together. It has been called Sip and Rip before. I have been know to rip out all my Tuesday night knitting because of enjoying friends and laughing so much I forgot where I was in the pattern. Come join us.

OCD??? Am I really???

2011-03-07T08:49:00.003-07:00

Before you start let me just say--the baby shower for Tami's new granddaughter is in 6 days!! I wanted to give sweet little Georgia Grace a hand knit item and 8 days ago I had nothing on the needles. We finished putting out this yarn of Saturday but Friday night before leaving work I grabbed 3 balls and casted on while Mike and I watched a movie. Some of my knitting friends (maybe all of them) would agree with the above statement. I like to term in goal oriented knitting. I usually only knit on one item at a time and don't have many UFO's around. I do think I can finish her little sweater today, I love the "Nellie" pattern we have in the single patterns. It is top down so no seaming to finish up. I hope her mom likes it. It is fun to knit for babies for sure.
New cute at a cup cake bags in the store. Joan came up with the idea of clipping this to a purse and I purchased one right away. It holds my cell phone, some change, drivers licence, etc. Now I have a confession--I have been know to loose my keys for months and leave my cell phone at the local Mexican restaurant. Thanks Joan, now if you want to call me I can find the phone.

Drop Your Spindle??

2011-03-01T21:07:00.004-07:00

Twisted Angelina attended Janet's Drop Spindle Class. She really got twisted up with all the soft, colorful fibers that Serendipity has on hand to practice her spinning.
Mary Jo and Janet working on spinning --Be watching our blog page and news letter for more classes offered by Janet. The spring class schedule will include some great spinning classes.
Wyatt and Sarah working up some fiber on their drop spindles.

The Youngest Knitter ever to come to Saturday Morning Knitting

2011-02-26T12:52:00.005-07:00

Look who came to Saturday Morning Knitting and hung out with all the wonderful ladies this morning. Addi Mae Martin tested this yarn out for softness, as you can see below it passed the test. She took a little snooze.

Laure showing off her latest gift from Serendipity. She is the proud winner of the Fraiser Fur Gift basket that we gave away last month.

She Said--I think I could use a class

2011-02-24T20:57:00.003-07:00

After Twisted Angelina's first try at knitting she decided she should move on to a new department until she had further instruction. She pushed her way past all the boxes that engulfed Tami's office to assist in unpacking some new fun note pads. After Tami's finished her computer work they were ready for Joan to put out for all of you to see. From atop the pile of boxes Twisted Angelina was giving Tami encouragement to hurry up so the three very large boxes of new yarn could be put out as soon as possible. Tami will be up half the night getting all the yarns entered and Mikki and Joan will be busting it up and down the stairs so you all can have some new yarns to look at. Come in and see our progress.
This is Twisted Angelina's first attempt at making a mobius out of the new Malabrigo chunky yarn that just arrived. As you can see like some first time knitters she was not at all relaxed and had yarn tangled, needles thrown around, and some stitches that didn't really look like the instructors. With a little encouragement she as signed up for some of our upcoming classes that will be offered very soon. If you would like to take a class with TA be watching our web sight and news letters. We have some really great instructors with lots of knowledge to assist you in learning a new technique.
Here is the mobius I knit in one night of TV watching. There will be a class and I am sweet talking Twisted into getting her needles and yarn and give it one more try. Hope to see some of you there also.

New Knitter

2011-02-23T21:25:00.002-07:00

Jodi is taking the beginning top down sweater class with Robin. She is doing amazing and I can't wait to see her sweater on. She chose the Fez yarn which has a bit of camel in it. It is a dark grey color which will be great on her. We all love having Jodi in the shop and I for one have been amazed at how fast her skills have progressed. We were suppose to have coffee in the morning but Jodi had a mishap with her steps and has gotten a bit banged up. We will miss you Jodi and look forward to seeing you again very soon. The Serendipity Diva's send good thoughts your way.
Look how great her stitches are-way to go girl.

Get A LITTLE TWISTED

2011-02-19T18:01:00.003-07:00

Have you ever met Twisted Angelina??? For years she has been the resident yarn Fairy and mascot at Serendipity, keeping a watchful eye on all of our wonderful products. Get ready for some changes--In her new role as full-fledged Yarn Diva, Twisted Angelina will have first-crack at checking out our new shipments. She promises to do a little field testing and pass along her findings to you.
Just so you have been informed, she will not longer be sitting around all of the time, Twisted is getting into the action here at Serendipity. It has been rumored that she is a yarn sniffer. More to come soon

It's going to be an event-full year!

2011-02-18T16:02:00.003-07:00

Christy and Tami picking out some luscious yarns--Rowan knocked it out of the park this year. Be ready to be amazed.

Another great day at work :)

2011-02-17T21:07:00.003-07:00

Robin spinning some llama samples Kathy gifted us.
One great thing I learned how to do today was ply without a lazy kate, everyone was glad to learn this technique.
Ann and Kathy doing a little carding to get ready to make some llama into a bit of yarn.
Thanks Kathy for having all of us in your home, you are one special instructor.
Where have all the spinners gone? To eat lunch. If you ever get the chance to take one of Kathy Brights classes be sure and get signed up. I learned a wealth of information about spinning and came home with some all natural alpaca to keep improving my skills.

One reason why I love where I work

2011-02-16T21:25:00.002-07:00

the number one reason I love where I work people. For years I thought I was an introvert--well guess what I am not. Having all these beautiful women come into the shop the past few days has been spectacular. I can't begin to describe how much it delights my heart to have a room full of people who love one of the things I am passionate about. (Fiber) Thanks Summit County knitters for spending time with us at Serendipity. Hope to see you again soon

Fun & More Fun at Serendipity

2011-02-15T20:32:00.005-07:00

These are was fun buttons to wear or give to other people with fiber additions. I have started my collection to pin on my new project bag.
It warmed up so people are out and about- it was a treat to have Terry and Annie drive up from Florissant, CO. They best be ready for our team from Serendipity to come and visit their alpaca operation.
Meg Swanson’s A Gathering of Lace if you wish to make one of these
Ann Johnson made this gift of love for a friend. It is very special and the Fez yarn did the trick. We would love for you all to bring in your finished projects so we can see what you all have been creating.

Monday as my relaxing day off

2011-02-14T17:43:00.002-07:00

I spent the day doing just what I wanted (well, I didn't want to mop the floor) so I did almost everything I wanted. Got in a good 3 mile walk at is was not freezing, started spinning and trying to learn the long draw method. I may be getting it, plus knitting on my hand spun. I am making a mobius in the seed stitch. It is my favorite stitch, which I know some of you knitters detest that stitch. It won't be bad in a scarf. Have a great day and keep on knitting.

Guess Who is Coming to Serendipity

2011-02-11T20:33:00.004-07:00

Oh yes, I did a happy dance when Tami sent me a text today to tell me it has shipped. I have been awaiting this yarn with visions of patterns floating in my brain. We have all been asking Jerry "our friendly UPS man" every day, are they big boxes of Malabrigo Yarn. I hope you are all as excited at we are at Serendipity.

New colors are everywhere.

2011-02-10T21:59:00.004-07:00

Pear Tree-worsted weight (oh so soft) yarn from the land down under. I can not believe that merino sheep can be this soft.
Shibui yarns are great for lace and socks to name a few items you can knit. I am thinking Tami's new granddaughter will need a sweater for a gift. We have some really fun Church mouse patterns to choose from.

After staying late to spin a bit I slipped into Tami's office to see her putting the finishing touches on an order to Madeline Tosh. Now I am not sure which colors she chose but I never worry with her taste. She has a great eye for color. I know one thing I can tell you, there will be the DK weight along with some other new weights of Madeline Tosh. I love that it is 100% super wash merino wool with a good amount of yardage and some very good colors. I will be planning a new project for sure.

We have a number of other new items in the store, come by and check us out.

Keep on Knitting,

Mikki

Candy Wrapper Cowls are flying off the needles

2011-02-08T20:08:00.002-07:00

Joan just finished her Candy Wrapper Cowl so I ran outside in the snow storm and snapped a shot before she put it in the mail to her daughter. If you want to knit a project quick and have lots of fun doing it this is for you. Joan is starting her second one and I usually don't knit projects more than once, but this one may be on the needles again soon.
Come see this new yarn, Shibui, there is some baby alpaca that I love. For some reason after spinning some alpaca I have become very fond of it. As soon as the snow melts and it warms up I plan to visit an alpaca farm.

It never ends

2011-02-05T21:20:00.002-07:00

I brought home some BFL today to now I am studying sheep breeds. These are blue face Leicesters and the fibers are very long. For those of you who don't know, I grew up on a ranch in SE Colorado and I didn't spend allot of time in the sheep pens. I tended to love the horse and cattle operations--but now it is a different story. Do I ever want to own sheep and raise my own wool, NEVER. But I do love reading and learning about the different breeds of sheep and the fibers they provide me to spin. One thing I do know is I never want to stop learning and all of this is very much a challenge I am ready to accept. Off to spin some BFL--until next time.
Look how cute these little guys are and then they grown up into this!!

Knitting groups make my day

2011-02-04T19:13:00.002-07:00

These are just a few of the lovely ladies that graced our doors today--they are here on a knitting retreat from Conifer Colorado. They have lots of great ideas for making new yarn projects and Betty (on the left) helped me with my spinning. Dianna also assisted but I she got away before I could get a photo.
I just have to set the twist and I will be casting on. I purchased some BFL (blue face luster) today as all the retreat ladies were getting hanks to spin. We will see how I do--photos to follow. Oh, Joan and I are knitting the Candy Wrapper Cowls and this is mine. I wore it today most of the day, it is still COLD.From this to yarn!!

Our Spinning Group

2011-02-03T07:42:00.002-07:00

Candy corn 2-ply alpaca yarn on my soon to be mine Ashford Wheel
I am not sure if the ball of yarn Tami is spinning from is big enough!! I have a 4 ounce braid of that fiber which I am excited to spin. My Candy Corn yarn should be ready to go on some needles by the end of the week. Any ideas on what I should knit-there is not loads of it but I can't believe made that. So much fun always learning something new for sure.

Spinning our wheels

2011-02-02T22:11:00.003-07:00

We were spinning tonight at Serendipity even though it was bitter cold outside. Today while unpacking some boxes there ware 4ounce braids from Pico Accuardi, the wool was died with indigo. If you are interested in spinning with us, we are staying open late on the first Wed. of every month from 5 to 7. I purchased my kit from Pico Acchardi, and will be spinning up my fiber. A new fiber and directions for how to spin it into yarn will be arriving at the shop every 2 months. We have a couple starter kits left--come pick yours up and get your wheels to spinning. Valentines day is right around the corner, maybe someone will put a bug in my best friends ear to let him know there is a wheel at Serendipity with my name on it!!

We have a special give away going on in the store so come in and see what that is all about. Oh, I could not believe it when our charity knitters walked in this morning it was not even above 0 yet. The baby hats and blanket pile is growing larger every Wed.

How I started today

2011-01-28T21:48:00.004-07:00

Joan and I have been meeting at The Roastery for months on Friday mornings before going to work. Come join us and bring your sticks. Thanks Chris for a delightful coffee to start my day. Lots of new items and goings on at Serendipity. See you all soon I do hope.

Gifts for the wee ones

2011-01-27T21:51:00.002-07:00

My "candy corn" alpaca goodness!!
I used to say "Why would I ever spin when I can just buy the yarn". I have changed my tune as of two days ago. We have moved items all around the store and with the assistance of Janet we put together two spinning wheels. Janet tried this Ashford Traveler out and gave me a quick lesson. Let me tell you I am laying awake at night thinking about my new love. It is so much fun I go to work early and stay late to get to spin a bit. Come by and try one of these wheels. Be watching for the time and date-- we are going to start spinning at the store one night a month.
Bobbie, Joan and Maggie have been knitting up hats for the babies. This is our charity knitting group that meets Wed. mornings. We would like for you to join in their mission of love for the Ronald McDonald House in Colorado Springs.
Maybe we will see you there next week, the coffee will be on.

Three Week Exactly

2011-01-25T21:38:00.002-07:00

These are not the best pictures but I just wanted people to see the sweater I knit for Ryan. I am very pleased the with end result and I am very happy with the fit, stitch definition, color, on and on. It is probably the best project I have ever knit. It will go in the mail to Alaska as soon as it dries completely. Now on to the next project.

Lucy's Knitting

2011-01-24T08:52:00.003-07:00

Lucy-one of our many customers- at Serendipity has been knitting up a storm. She did lots of Christmas knitting and this wrap was giving as gift to her sister in law who is looking beautiful in this photo. Where she lives is not here, look at all that green in the background. It is a precious gift to get a hand knitted item and I know she thinks of Lucy every time she wears her wrap. Keep on knitting, maybe I should cast on a gift this month so I am not knitting like a house a fire next November :)

Debra's STAFF PICK

2011-01-24T08:43:00.002-07:00

Madeline Tosh Worsted--Being a singer and knitter, my favorite song is the one I'm singing at the the time and my favorite yarn is generally the one running through my fingers. Madeline Tosh is a beautiful, soft yarn and this small fast scarf project is the perfect break from large and sometimes daunting knitting. It's fun and affordable knitting and makes a fabulous gift.

Toni's Staff Pick

2011-01-17T10:25:00.003-07:00

Toni's favorite new items in the store this week are some new cards by C.C. Barton, a local artist from Salida, CO. The company is called "Artists to Watch" and they publish the work of independent artists from around the world. C.C. Barton's designs are prints of her wonderful watercolors of rabbits with fruit or flowers. You have to come in to see them. Buy one or more to give and keep one for yourself just to enjoy: I even framed one for myself.

Joan just gave this card for my birthday--I will definitely be looking for a frame.

Day Number Six

2011-01-10T13:34:00.003-07:00

Less than a week ago I started knitting this"Old Way Gansey" designed by Ann Budd. Our first granddaughter was born during this time so I got lots of knitting time while staying at our son and his wife's house. Today I am in hopes of some great time spent watching movies and knitting on this. The person I am gifting this sweater to (Ryan) just married my niece. They will be living in Alaska so I knew a wool sweater would get lots of use age up there. The Ella Rae yarn is a delight to work with and I loved this color way--Chile Pepper. In two more weeks they will be returning from their honeymoon so I best quite blogging and get my needles flying. Oh, I also started reading Knitting Ganseys by Beth Brown-Reinsel. These sweaters have quite a history. Tami, if you are looking for this book it is at my house :) Happy knitting.