KniTalk Community - Blogs http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php Welcome to the KniTalk Community - home of KnitU, Tech-Talk, XRX Insider, and the KniTalk Blogs. en Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:25:08 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.knitalk.com/Community/images/misc/rss.jpg KniTalk Community - Blogs http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php Friday Fun with Franklin at STITCHES Midwest http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=120 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 19:51:00 GMT The much anticipated write up on Franklin Habit's visit to STITCHES Midwest 2010! I hope you enjoy it. :) It all began when I decided...]]> The much anticipated write up on Franklin Habit's visit to STITCHES Midwest 2010! I hope you enjoy it. :)

It all began when I decided to attend Knitters Connection this past June. Several folks thought I was crazy since it was the week after TNNA. Hadn't I had enough? Wasn't I tired of talking about yarn, knitting, and XRX? Nope. And after scanning the brochure of available classes, I spotted one that would help me decipher a pattern that always confused me -- the Tomten Jacket by Elizabeth Zimmermann.

So after I had finished registering for Franklin Habit's Tomten class, I knitted in the sitting area. While my head was bent over in concentration, I heard familiar voices. Distractedly, I looked up and saw Candace Eisner Strick (I just love her!) chatting with none-other-than Franklin! I jumped up to say "hello" and as I walked over, Candace greeted me with a joyful "BUNNY!!" Grinning, she turned to Franklin to make introductions. Shyly I asked Franklin if he remembered me. He replied with a smile, "Of course!" *Yes, I was a total fangirl in front of these two icons.* We chatted for a bit, and Candace left to check into her hotel room. I mentioned something about being hungry and heading to Jeni's Ice Creams at North Market. Franklin had heard about the fabulous deliciousness, but never tried it. My answer was instant: "Really?? Let's go, and my treat!"
The Jeni's Ice Creams trio I had with Franklin - Mango Lassi, Lemon Blueberry, and Rhubarb Rose
As we savored our selections, we caught up with our current life situations and what we had been doing. Excitedly I talked about my success with the pajama party at STITCHES South and that I was allowed to throw another one during STITCHES Midwest. I asked Franklin, "You can come, right? I mean this is IN your backyard!" Shaking his head, he said he wasn't sure. But I did emphatically plead with him as we parted ways to consider shopping with me at the Market and hanging out at the pajama party. He smiled and said he would think about it.

Moving forward to August 20th, I am walking around the STITCHES Marketplace showing Franklin around with my Plurk/Ravelry pal JennySWren. We met with the various show sponsors, and I introduced him to Lisa Souza, Kendra from The Knit Shop Girls, Leslie Wind, and Heather from Intwined Design Software. Along the way he visited his friend Bea, and we ran into many, many folks.
JennySWren, Franklin, and SomeBunnysLove
When the Market closed at 6PM, we said our good-byes to Jenny who had to get back to Milwaukee and headed toward the Fashion Show. Though I was nervous I managed to get a quick adult beverage (sorry, no idea what I drank, meaning I was THAT nervous!). Taking our aisle seats, we watched in awe of the garments that strolled down the runway. Comparing notes, we drooled over various designs and how they would look. We both agreed that Knitter's Magazine had put on an incredible set for the next issue coming out this September. Guess what that is? K100!
Bold Textures Cardigan at STITCHES Midwest 2010
*Note: above image provided by Kollage Yarns*

After the show finished, we popped into the adjoining ballroom and spotted our placecards. With Kristi Miller on my right ("KnittersBrat" on both Ravelry and Twitter, definitely go tease her about anything!), and many of the XRX crew sitting with us, conversation was lively and fun. Ironically, I must have been very distracted by all that conversation because I did not take ONE PHOTO of my food! Hard to believe, eh?

Full from the delicious dinner and dessert, it was time to change into our jammies for the Pajama Party. Franklin did not disappoint the crowd by donning his silk nightcap and handknit socks. I managed to snag a photo of him playing on Ravelry at the lobby computer.
Franklin in the Renaissance lobby playing on Ravelry at STITCHES Midwest 2010 -- Check out his SOCKS!!
There was much mayhem (I think Dolores was hiding out somewhere and handing out shots of tequila to the teachers) because a little after 11PM, "somebunny" brought out a birthday cake for XRX, Inc. CEO Benjamin Levisay, and the awesome Shannon Dunbabin from Cascade Yarns sang "Happy Birthday, Mr. XRX" a la Marilyn Monroe style.
Kimberly giggling at Shannon and Benjamin at STITCHES Midwest 2010

Without saying, the Pajama Party was a hit once again. So many more people showed up, and later I heard we had over 120 attendees! If you can imagine all the prizes, participants, and crazy fun, well -- I just hope the next one at STITCHES East packs the house. (For a sneak peek, HERE are some photos of the mischief!) Can you imagine what my fellow pals will be doing with me at my old stomping grounds of New England? Oh boy... I think I need to get Benjamin primed on how big THAT munchies tab is going to be...

Just the front crowd at the STITCHES Midwest 2010 Pajama Party

Huge thanks to Shannon Dunbabin of Cascade Yarns, Robin Martin of Yarn Crawl, her friend Heather, Elaine Sue of Embroidered4You Yarn Shop, Sarah Carroll Wilson (The Sexy Knitter), Lawre O'Leary of Lawre's Laine, the talented Christine Manhart, Natasha Laity Snyder from Unplanned Peacock Studio, the entire Kollage Yarns crew, and KnittingSaint09 Robin of Knitwerks on Etsy for coming out early to help and/or donate prizes. Without your generous selves, there would be no goodies to give away for the Pajama Party! And special thanks to Benjamin Levisay for putting up with my crazy antics. :)

Bunny hugs for now,
Kimberly
=:8 ]]> somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=120 Heeding the Entrelac Echo http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=119 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 22:42:00 GMT Hmm... I have fought long enough in trying to get my photos all downloaded and sorted. It is time I post my first report on STITCHES...]]> Hmm... I have fought long enough in trying to get my photos all downloaded and sorted. It is time I post my first report on STITCHES Midwest!

When a blue moon appears at night, or when the hunter's moon stalks the evening, there is the chance all of us hear The Call. The call may differ between each of us, but somehow we are beckoned. For me the call echoes over and over. Sometimes I hear whispers from the fresh market foods about what to create for dinner, sometimes I hear cries from my skeins of yarn to cast on for a pattern, and at other times the various podcasts beg me join them and speak my voice. For fellow fibery friends that I have met online and in person, the echoes to snag some time together when the chance presents itself is a great reason to gather.

STITCHES Midwest Opening Day on Thursday brought special excitement in the air. We launched Gwen Bortner's "Entree to Entrelac" book in a party-like atmosphere. After a short (and funny) introduction by Benjamin Levisay and Rick Mondragon, author Gwen of Knitability, Anna Walden of Twisted Sisters Knitting, and Laura Bryant of Prism Yarn kicked off the festivities with a bang. Their informative panel gave details about entrelac's bias knitting and how the technique can be applied to offer shaping and fit for everyday figures like myself. The ladies had the audience cooing and awestruck over the garments offered.

We slid ourselves from the opening introduction to a "Teachers a la Carte" luncheon that incorporated the "speed dating" idea. Each of the 23 tables had one spot for an instructor to come sit and chat about him/herself and class in a short oral presentation. After a few minutes, each of the instructors would move to the next table and begin the presentation again. I cannot remember how many tables I met, but I had a lot of fun chatting with everybunny!

After lunch, it was time to prepare for the STITCHES Market's soft opening which was available if you were taking classes or attending a STITCHES event. You could see the crowd as they hopped into the entrance doors that evening. In fact, their excitement was contagious, and it was shared amongst the vendors and sponsors throughout the floor.

The night began with an elegant party for all the teachers and special guests of Gwen's to celebrate her book. We toasted on various beverages and snacked ourselves away on the incredible appetizers. Once again the positive energy was uplifting for all of us, and though we were exhausted, we left very happy on the success of Opening Day.

For myself, as tired as a I was, I could not resist snatching a bit of time to hang out at the Renaissance lobby's fireplace. I befriended 3 lovely women visiting from Wisconsin and Kathy (she is KnitLoon on Ravelry) the savvy Karabella Yarns sales rep in Minnesota. We chatted, knitted and spun until 1:00AM (or was it later?) before shipping ourselves to dream about the upcoming weekend.

Stay tuned to follow on Friday's awesomeness!

Bunny hugs for now,
Kimberly
=:8 ]]> somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=119 Fun with Friends over Chocolate and Wine http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=118 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:09:00 GMT Most of the time when I am offline working, I am involved amongst fellow friends in the fibery (and sometimes fine arts) businesses for secret... Most of the time when I am offline working, I am involved amongst fellow friends in the fibery (and sometimes fine arts) businesses for secret projects or as a personal confidant. Because I share a special trust with them, when our adventures would make a "cool Tweet" or an amazing blog post, I feel so guilty on writing about them that I rarely photograph the experience or "spill the beans" to everybunny. Instead I use vague terms in my posts and photo titles to remind me of the amazing memories I keep in my head.

I expected this past Sunday afternoon was going to be the same. When I posted on Facebook (Psst. Are we friends? Feel free to connect with me there too!) that I would be making cookies for folks who asked me "Got chocolate?" at the STITCHES Live booth during Midwest, Merike Saarniit jokingly said that I should bring her some since we live fairly close to each other. Thinking she was serious, I replied back that I would be "hoppy to do so" for her and Anna (Zilboorg). Eight hours (yes, 8!!!) later did we know that all of us would be snacking on chocolate cookies, sipping wine (courtesy of my buddy V), and chatting the late afternoon away about yarn, socks, STITCHES, and drop spindling at Leslie Shelor's shop -- Greenberry House. Of course I failed to take any photos, but when I brought a copy of "Think Outside the SOX" for Leslie and forgot one for Anna, there was much kidding and chiding. Offering up huge apologies, I promised Anna that when I came back from Midwest I would not only have a copy of TOTS for her, but also a copy of Gwen Bortner's new book, "Entree to Entrelac" for her too. (Gwen, if you are reading this, can we make it an autographed copy?!)

As soon as I mentioned Gwen's book, Merike piped up, "Wait, will ALL of the teachers at STITCHES get one?" I could only shrug and admit that I did not know. Seeing the quizzical look on my face that asked why, she proceeded to explain something that I had absolutely no clue that was hoppening: Gwen had sent all of her fellow teachers a copy of her felted Entrelac slipper pattern with yarn provided by the Brown Sheep Yarn Company. From what I understood, it seems that some of the instructors had never either done entrelac (count me on that!) or felted but made their slippers. It then dawned on me that the count of people attending my Pajama Party is probably DOUBLE than what I have been expecting (which was at 60). OOPS!!

To refresh what is "hoppening" prize-wise for this event, there are 2 big prizes on the 2 main contests: one for the Wackiest Pajamas, and the other for the Coolest Handmade Slippers. In these 2 main prizes, each will contain at least a set of stitch markers by Christine Manhart (a textile fiber artist who showcases her work at the Main Lee Art Gallery), a skein of Unplanned Peacock Studio sock yarn, and a rainbow sheep mug from Ireland (purchased by me during Knitters Connection 2010 in Columbus, OH). As for the just-as-important-if-not-more-so companies who donated goodies to make sure this event was as fun (if not more so) than STITCHES South, I want everybunny to recognize their awesome generosity:
- Embroidered 4 You & Yarn 2 -- Elaine Sue on Ravelry has been working with companies such as Cascade Yarns and Kraemer Yarns to provide goody bags for the first 60 people.
- Shannon Dunbabin from Cascade Yarns is not only donating more awesome goodies, but is also making another personal appearance (we had so much fun last time!) in helping me hand out the prizes.
- The fun-loving team at Kollage Yarns is going to make sure that everybunny is going to have a GREAT time. My guess is that they will be treating us to some delicious yarn, feeding us yummy food, or buying us tempting drinks!
- Once again Heather (Yarnyenta on Ravelry) and her company are giving a licensed copy of their software, Intwined II so that inspiring designers can have an easier time in creating knits that are cleanly and crisply professional. Not sure how the software looks? Angela Myers has a pattern on Ravelry that was made with it: The Fates sock pattern.
Update!!
- Sarah Wilson (TheSexyKnitter on Ravelry) and her BFF are giving TWO sets of their stitchmarkers from their Etsy Shop, 579 Jewelry. Do they not have gorgeous stuff or what? :D

Whew!! Did I miss anybunny? Do you still want to donate to the Pajama Party? Feel free to contact me at somebunnyslove@xrx-inc.com for donations. Do you still want to join us at the giant fireplace at 10PM on Friday the 20th? Please RSVP either on Ravelry or if it is easier, you can even RSVP on Facebook. I hope to see you VERY soon (like at the STITCHES Live booth)!!

Bunny hugs for now,
Kimberly
=:8 ]]> somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=118 Sated with Simplicity http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=117 Fri, 13 Aug 2010 07:11:03 GMT This Bunny has been busy with the tasks of secret knitting, background surprises, and reviewing your food submissions. I still cannot leak out the... This Bunny has been busy with the tasks of secret knitting, background surprises, and reviewing your food submissions. I still cannot leak out the first two on my list, but the latest task is a definite go to blab!

Summertime is an absolutely wonderful season. It can mean intimate vacations to remote places, picnics by the grill with friends, or giant gatherings for family reunions. Each of these events someway will include food. As a food-crazed bunny, that is when I enjoy the various flavors brought on by different countries and regions through their dishes and drink.

The tasting panel who helped me make my decision were able to pair some fabulous wines with the tasty meals. After judging for the best flavors, I present the three finalists and the suggested wine which accompanied each:
  • Alexis (alexis0509 on Ravelry) from Chicago, IL submitted a Chocolate Flan Cake from the awesome Recipe Zaar. It was paired with the Elio Perrone Moscato d'Asti 2007 because it contrasted the richness of the dessert by adding a refreshing floral and apricot element after each bite.

  • Diane (bdiane on Ravelry) from California gave us her Pasta with Pancetta -- ahhh, BACON!! Monte Antico Super Tuscan 2006 was matched to this pasta dish because the classic Italian flavors and fatty bacon were complimented by the dark fruits, earth tones, and tannins.

  • Debbie (check2x on Ravelry) from Northbrook, IL offered up a family favorite -- Grilled Glazed Salmon. The Louis Jadot Corton-Pougets Grand Cru Burgundy 1999 made this entree a real treat because the flavors from dark-roasted cherries, orange blossoms, and mushroom-like forest characteristics complimented the soy sauce garlic marinade and caramel sauce.

    But to help make a final decision, another factor was added to the contest finalists. For me, gatherings of any type can be extremely stressful. When I have to find the time to buy specific foods at the market and forget to do so, I am not a hoppy bunny. After all these delightful dishes were reviewed, I thought about which one could be made in a pinch if I were told company was going to arrive in less than six hours and my home was a wreck. And the winner? Well if you can tell by the photo below, it's a good sign that I really can follow a recipe. ;)

    Summertime Dish Winner for STITCHES Midwest

    So huge congratulations to Debbie for her wonderful salmon dish! She will be attending the Friday night Fashion Show and Dinner along with the Saturday night Student Teacher Banquet. I do have the feeling I will be using those same flavors with other meats (lamb, beef, and duck are on the testing horizon). And many thanks to everybunny who participated. Yay for summertime food!!

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]> somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=117 Hiding and Searching http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=116 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:52:00 GMT Can you believe it has been a busy month of non-stop work? This crazy Bunny has been in the kitchen and office whipping up some goodies in... Can you believe it has been a busy month of non-stop work? This crazy Bunny has been in the kitchen and office whipping up some goodies in anticipation for STITCHES Midwest. There are a few items which are a surprise, but I think you are going to LOVE them!

    To begin my update, I offer an early photo of my office. See that wall? See the yarn, the magazines, and the books? All of it was taking up my time at night and the weekends. I have been showing snippets throughout my tweets on Twitter, but I think the hard work is slowly paying off.
    Early Office Beginnings
    Now for the really fun stuff. Sara Fitzgerald (Sara6908 on Ravelry) of the "So you think you Know me?" blog won the STITCHES Expos package from the Ravelry Search Party! What happened was that our awesome Ravelry Team needed a little help on updating how Patterns are searched on Ravelry. They offered up prizes to entice the members with helping them, and we provided a full package of fun. Here's hoping I get to meet Sara at an upcoming STITCHES!!

    So are you ready for STITCHES Midwest? I have been working on some super secret projects with a big one kicking off on Friday night. Rest assured, the Pajama Party is going to be loads of fun like the one at STITCHES South. I should really try to finish those Thrummed Bunny Slippers or maybe redo them because I started them in cotton, but I have been caught up in projects from "Think Outside the SOX" and this baby blanket:
    Bear Claw Blanket in CE Twinkle Soft Chunky
    The pattern is Veronik Avery's Bear Claw Blanket and I am using Classic Elite Twinkle Soft Chunky to make it. Though I am only doing one of the corner claws, that quarter is going to be 28 inches squared. When it is done, you will see it on Ravelry, I promise! Can you imagine a full square??

    With my visit to STITCHES Midwest right around the corner, I am excited about seeing my friends from the Chicago area. I am anticipating hugs from Robin (my Secret Pal Spoilee who inspired me to start making sweaters), Franklin (he never ceases to make me smile), Nikki (her worldwide adventures make my head spin!), and especially the biggest guest -- YOU! How can you make sure to be there in the fun? Post a comment about your favorite summertime recipe by 11:59 PM (ET) so that you could win a chance to participate in the Friday and Saturday night for free. If you already paid for them, you will be credited as reimbursement. I will be making the dishes and setting them down to a panel of friends. By their thumbs being up or down, I will be able to announce a winner on Wednesday. Sound good? Yay!!!

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=116     Anybunny Hungry? http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=115 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 20:32:00 GMT To those who have met me in person, I am what is called a "major foodie" in that I absolutely love food. I enjoy trying out various dishes, flavors, and techniques by either tasting or creating them. Because I am also a Type 2 Diabetic, I take great pains to work with my blood sugar levels so I do not abuse my body's pancreas. Benjamin (CEO of XRX, Inc.) has even commented in amazement on my personal posts about food, and I figured it was about time I shared my obsession with you. After all, if I can eat, everybunny can eat too. Right? ;)

    Recently I promised friends that I will share my favorite Sweet Potato Biscuits Recipe. Here it is, just in time to share for summer days with friends and family.

    Sweet Potato Biscuits (altered from Southern Living)

    Ingredients
    1 (1/4-ounce) envelope active dry yeast
    1/4 cup warm water (100° to 110°)
    1 (23-ounce) can sweet potatoes in syrup, drained and mashed to yield 15 ounces
    1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    1/2 cup brown sugar
    1 teaspoon salt
    1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
    1 cup all-purpose flour
    1 teaspoon baking powder
    Melted butter
    Coarse or flaked salt (I used coarse black salt and flaked grey salt)

    Instructions
    I follow the recipe with some simple changes added in italics:
    1. Combine yeast and 1/4 cup warm water in a glass measuring cup; let stand 5 minutes.
    2. Stir together sweet potatoes and butter, blending well. Stir in sugar and salt; add yeast mixture, stirring until smooth.
      I use more sweet potatoes than recommended. I also use a flat whisk to mash the sweet potatoes and stir EVERYTHING with it.
    3. Combine flour and baking powder; gradually stir into potato mixture, until well blended. Lightly knead until dough holds together.
    4. Shape dough into a ball; place in a buttered mixing bowl. Brush top with melted butter. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85°), free from drafts, 2 1/2 hours or until doubled in bulk.
      Instead of the first rise at 2 1/2 hours, I drape a cloth over the bowl and pop it into the (unused and cool) oven overnight for at least 8 hours.
    5. Punch down dough, and turn out onto a floured surface. Roll dough to a 1/2-inch thickness; cut with a 2-inch round cutter, and place on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place, free from drafts, 2 hours or until doubled in bulk.
      Smaller biscuits are fun for large crowds, but 4-inch ones are perfect for an intimate dinner group (especially when rack of lamb is involved!).
    6. Bake at 400° for 12 minutes or until golden.
      I brush lots of melted butter on the biscuits and sprinkle gourmet salt before baking.

    Now for some photos of said biscuits:


    Since you have seen a favorite recipe of mine, how about a new contest for a chance to attend the STITCHES Midwest Friday night and Saturday night festivities free of charge? With the long dog days here in the northern hemisphere, I would love to know what is your favorite summertime dish. Please post your answer by commenting here, posting on our Facebook page, or in the Ravelry group contest thread. If you one of the 2 chosen winners, maybe we can play havoc and stir things up both nights! Who's with me??

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=115     <![CDATA[Entrez Vous, La Reine d'Entrelac]]> http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=114 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:46:00 GMT *French translation of the title: Come in, Entrelac Queen* You might not have known about what the Ravelry Team did, but they went to various... *French translation of the title: Come in, Entrelac Queen*

    You might not have known about what the Ravelry Team did, but they went to various booths throughout the show and shared some of the latest fashions for us to know. We are proud to share Gwen's interview with Sarah in which Gwen discusses her new book, "Entree to Entrelac" and its debut at STITCHES Midwest. I hope you enjoy it, and I hope you can come meet Gwen in person when she hosts Opening Day on August 19th!

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=114     <![CDATA[Some TIPS on Being Social with Jeni's Ice Cream]]> http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=113 Sat, 12 Jun 2010 14:40:00 GMT When I looked at my schedule for TNNA, I knew I was going to be busy, but I had no idea just HOW busy. I arrived late on Wednesday to hang out with... When I looked at my schedule for TNNA, I knew I was going to be busy, but I had no idea just HOW busy. I arrived late on Wednesday to hang out with the brain behind Holiday Yarns, Jennifer (aka @holidayyarns on Twitter and gwynivar on Ravelry). She is a vendor at both STITCHES Midwest and STITCHES East, and is going to be one of our prize sponsors at the ensuing Pajama Parties. Jennifer and I have an interesting connection in that we both were involved in the IT Support world for years before pursuing our love in fiber. We also agree that we made the right choice. :)

    Thursday was chock-full of setting up the XRX Books booth, meeting up with folks, and of course the Yarnmarket Ravelry Meet up that I gushed about earlier. Somehow I managed to squeeze in a spinning lesson from the fabulous Beth Smith (aka @threesheeps on Twitter and Ravelry) from The Spinning Loft in Michigan. I still look back and smile when I think about that whole day.

    Now Friday comes and my biggest priorities were my two TIPS (Trends, Ideas & Products Series) sessions in the morning and the Ravelry Ice Cream Social that night. Admittedly I was nervous, then the thought of nobunny showing up for my TIPS presentations terrified me. The opposite happened:



    I could NOT believe my eyes, so I photographed both sides of the room. Both of my sessions were packed with people interested in what I had to say. With Benjamin at my side, we offered the group our "Social Media Best Practices" lesson. The positive reception and feedback has been phenomenally wonderful. For those who missed the presentation, I am teaching a two-day class during STITCHES Midwest ETC in which I give thorough hands-on chances in this hot topic. I do hope you can attend!

    For the other part of my day, it was spent in trying to help the Ravelry Team get ready for the Jeni's Ice Cream Social that kicked off after the Fashion Show. My assigned task was to ensure our "*K100, repeat from source" tee shirts were set up, and to do whatever the Ravelry Team needed. I think all the volunteers efforts were fully appreciated by the crowd. Do you think so by looking at the photograph below?

    Of course, nobunny caused quite a stir next to our bright pink K100 shirts but Jeni herself! When she came up to me, I had a slightly vague feeling that she looked familiar. "Hi. I'm Jeni." Immediately my smiling face became an impish grinning one. In my excitement, I flagged down (okay, I tackled him) Benjamin to meet her.

    *Sigh*
    I can be such a fangirl! But what would YOU do if you met one of your all-time foodie greats? I would have to say meeting Jeni equates my last year's TNNA Summer incident of falling down at Veronik Avery's feet and saying, "I'm not worthy!" after she told me she knitted her Bear Claw Blanket in 3 weeks.

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=113     To Market, to Market, to Buy Lots of Yarn http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=112 Fri, 11 Jun 2010 05:10:00 GMT With our team's first day of TNNA done (actually it was my second because I helped my friend Beth Smith set up for her Wednesday class) it was time for a fun break. Thanks to the awesome Erin/LittleWit, I was able to attend the Ravelry meet up at Yarnmarket. The party was at first announced on an email, then set up as a Facebook event for an RSVP option. Excited about attending with the Kollage Yarns folks, I packed up my boss Benjamin Levisay and Mark Moraca, then drove on our merry way.

    Traffic was its usual busy self, but Mark knew various streets and highways that brought us to Yarnmarket's door in little time. Granted I was driving in "Boston mode" but still... We did arrive to an impressively packed lot filled with cars. After finding a place to park, we slipped into the back door so Mark could check in with Suzy and Erica from Kollage yarns before mingling.

    To say that Yarnmarket is a well-run ship is an understatement as we were given a tour of the facility. I looked in awe as I walked from their yarn photography room to their stockroom, to their shop. During that tour, I bumped into Katy, the talent behind Yarn Chef! Unfortunately she is extremely shy and I promised not to photograph her. However while chatting with the ladies from Cincinnati, I did manage to catch a shot with Sooper Editor Extraordinaire PB from Ravelry. Have no idea who PB is? If you can guess her actual Ravelry name correctly, you just might get a goody for your loving pet. (And no, PB does not mean "pet bunny" either!) ;)

    Of course I must save the best part for last. The highlight of this meet up was for people to see the Ravelry team of Jessica, Casey, Sarah, and Mary-Heather. Many local knitting groups came out in droves. It was so fun seeing the glowing excitement on their faces. Besides Kollage Yarns, the fabulous ladies of Della Q were their too. Admittedly, I fondled lots of yarn and petted many bags. It is a wonder I did not come back to the hotel weighed with goodies. At least I was able to rub elbows with Yarnmarket's Deborah and her husband, right?

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=112     Woohoo for Monday! http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=109 Tue, 25 May 2010 04:59:00 GMT Before you check my temperature to see if I have a fever, do you remember that I had a contest in which folks had a chance to enter a name for my... Before you check my temperature to see if I have a fever, do you remember that I had a contest in which folks had a chance to enter a name for my newest mascot? Yup, I did! And I will be talking about more giveaways in an upcoming "Hunt the Bunny with Chocolate" series right after I announce the winner. So, to explain a little background information, this cute little bunny was given to me from the Atlanta Knitting Guild at STITCHES South.

    I had given the deadline for entries as Friday, May 21st, and received 19 names:
    All the names were written down (I am still fighting with printers), folded up, and put into a hat. A name was drawn out at random by a friend.

    And the winner is...

    Congrats to Thea Midnight for submitting "Jeffrey" as the name for my mascot! She not only will receive a copy of the "Think Outside the SOX" book, but I am sending her a skein of sock yarn and some stitch markers too. :)

    ------------------------
    Now for some very cool information hoppening for TNNA, "Think Outside the SOX" and the next STITCHES events:
    • During TNNA, I will be giving 2 TIPS (Trends, Ideas, and Products) sessions on Friday June 11th at 10 and 10:30 AM. The first class is "Why a Good Online Presence is Critical" in which I demonstrate examples of how businesses have done well and also bombed with an online presence. The second class, "Social Media Trends" is where I discuss the use of social media and how to apply them according to your comfort level. Both of these classes are snippets of my STITCHES Midwest ETC. sessions that are for professional development.
    • I created a group on Ravelry dedicated to the amazing "Think Outside the SOX" book. Here we share our projects, ideas, and errata discoveries on the exciting patterns. I have asked Fairisle on Ravelry to be a moderator, and she has graciously accepted! Also a "TOTS" album has been added on the XRX Books Facebook page to offer snippets of the book.
    • Registration for STITCHES East 2010 in Hartford opens 9AM sharp Central Time. The brochures are currently at the printers and we hope to mail them out this week. As for the PDF, that will be ready to be downloaded by the end of this week!

    So have you ever played "Hunt the Bunny with Chocolate" with me? At the upcoming TNNA, any of the fiber festivals, or whenever I am at a local yarn shop, if you "Got chocolate" for me, I will have a goody for you! During Memorial Day Week, I will be hopping around New England from Friday May 28th to June 2nd. The places I will be at are:
    1. Friday May 28th - Hubspot TV in Cambridge, MA from 4PM until ??
    2. Saturday May 29th - Massachusetts Sheep and Wool in Cummington, MA
    3. Saturday May 29th - the After-hours "Show off your Goodies" Party at JessaLu's home
    4. Sunday May 30th - Sakonnet Purls in Tiverton, RI from 1PM to 4PM
    5. Monday May 31st - Hmm... (thinking of where to drag SomeBunnysHusband)
    6. Tuesday June 1st - Fresh Purls in Providence, RI from 1PM to 4PM
    7. Tuesday June 1st - Knit Happens in Johnston, RI from 6PM to 9PM
    Looks like I better load up on prizes! Can you imagine getting some yarn, a button, or even *gasp* a book? And yes, the better the chocolate, the yummier the prize. :)

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=109     Revisiting the Pajamas and Slippers http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=108 Mon, 17 May 2010 18:53:00 GMT Many apologies for being so quiet. There has been so much happening that I keep forgetting to write about them! I also have lots of little... Many apologies for being so quiet. There has been so much happening that I keep forgetting to write about them! I also have lots of little surprises in store for you, including a schedule of events of where I will be in the upcoming months for you to "bunny hunt" me. :) Why the bunny hunt? Well you will see in my post tomorrow this weekend, and I promise it will be fun.

    With the Maryland Sheep & Wool and the Sedalia Fiber Festivals happening weekends ago, I never did get the chance to finish writing about some wonderful memories during STITCHES South. I admit that the Pajama Party was my favorite group gathering and helping somebunny special celebrate her 23rd birthday was the other (the next feature post). Of course I am going to have a flood of photos for you to see.

    I had envisioned the Pajama Party as a fresh event to STITCHES. The idea of knitters, crocheters, and spinners in their sleepwear while chatting, eating, and drinking was appealing in a very cool ambiance. Little did I know how many folks would attend my little gathering, and what prizes were in store from the various sponsors. Putting it mildly, the time I caught my breath, I was amazed to see the donated pile of goodies and had to think of off-the-cuff ways to give out such generosity. Add the munchies and the fruit basket that Alexi and Elaine brought, we had a party!

    To begin, there were a TON of prizes. Because of the incredible amount, not one person left without something. (And if there were any, I want to hear from you!) As Shannon from Cascade Yarns stood by my side hoppily handing out the prizes to the winners, her grins matched mine and the ones on my friends' faces. Seeing all the smiling 60-some odd attendees had us awed. Sue from Kollage Yarns and her right-hand gal Erica had joined my XRX Team to help out with the goodies and fun. Speaking of goodies, I have huge thank yous to an equally huge list of awesome donors:

    And of course nothing is better for the curious folks than seeing who attended this awesome soiree, right? Well here is the list of awesome attendees and I hope you click on their names to check them out. Maybe your Ravelry name will be in the featured list for upcoming parties? I hope so!
    KateyJ from GA
    KnitJazz from AL
    ChezCarla from FL
    thenaughtymonkey from WI
    SarahBess from LA
    Jolie from GA
    Tanda D (not on Ravelry yet)
    cricket1 from TN
    woolypinksheep
    Mary0521
    mimihyde
    Sanda C (not on Ravelry yet)
    susanseidle
    knittinggirl47 from TN
    bliss from GA
    ATLknit from GA
    Listener15 from GA
    KnitnKnight from GA
    Tyna from TN
    knitter007 from TN
    drewjacobs83 from TN
    Pipp from VA
    GrandmaBarb from TN
    qltann from TN
    brentmanwife from TN
    lilljack from TN
    feather18 from TN
    marjoriedenise from TN
    EAPatterson from GA
    MissAngelaJane from OH
    danna from HI
    crazyangel from KY
    craftmonkey from TN
    brittanylaine from TN
    craftygirl83 from TN
    ContinentalKim from FL
    KBelle from FL
    picnicknits from FL
    fibernerd from FL
    clwnfsh55 from FL
    Helen W (not on Ravelry yet)
    IfIonlyhadabrain from NC
    EyeKnit4U58 form AZ
    bumblebee from VA
    soraseishin from VA
    kathyingeorgia from GA
    zzwhitejd from NC
    dorayme from NC
    knitspstixs from FL
    janetwilson from FL
    kzooerica from MI
    mmfanner from Australia
    hattiet from NC
    Cherie L. (not on Ravelry yet)
    sunsong22 from NC
    KathyTV from GA
    bwknits from GA
    hltonhead from SC
    knitjan from GA
    Lins518 from GA
    kagknits from NJ
    Can I say thank you because every single one of you ROCK?? We had the BEST time and I hope you have fond memories like mine.

    I must mention the awesome group from the Nashville area who invited me to come out and visit them. These folks were VERY smart in getting seats early. And you can betcha boots I will be coming out to see you this summer! :)

    Special thanks for the Ravelry team in coming out for the festivities. If you cannot tell in this shot of Mark Moraca from Kollage Yarns, they were having fun. :)

    And finally huge thankful kudos to my XRX family and my friends who came out not only to hang out, but also to help in dishing out the goodies. Without you, I would not have been able to enjoy the festivities and share all this information.

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=108     <![CDATA[Maryland's Got Chocolate for this Bunny]]> http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=111 Tue, 04 May 2010 20:19:00 GMT With my new schedule in tow, I am determined to give away as much goodies as I can. Why? Well, why NOT? For me, having fun is seeing the smiles... With my new schedule in tow, I am determined to give away as much goodies as I can. Why? Well, why NOT? For me, having fun is seeing the smiles light up on folks' faces. I get warm and fuzzy feelings when I can make people smile. So it is no surprise that when I was at Maryland Sheep and Wool, I started giving out yarn when folks would say, "I got chocolate for you!" In fact here are some quick shots of the ones who either said the phrase or gave me chocolate. :D


    While sending out a "Where's the Bunny?" location shot, I chatted with Conni Togel of Sheep Incognito and her comically entertaining husband Peter. When I told them what I was doing, Peter immediately whipped out a Lindt chocolate bar and offered it to me! Delighted in her husband's earnest for a blanket set of Kollage Yarns Hope yarn, Conni's hoppy reaction of thinking the yarn was hers soon changed to knowing giggling. Why? Peter exclaimed, "This yarn will be going to Germany for Mother's Day!" What a smart man!! As for the couple on the right, Heather had chatted with Guido Stein (of the "It's a Purl, Man" podcast) and me the night before at the hotel we were staying when I told her about my giveaway for 2 tickets to the MD SW After Hours Party thrown by the Common Cod Fiber Guild in Boston, MA. It was not even 9AM yet when she and her husband hunted me down to say, "I got chocolate for you!" Yes, they really wanted those tickets, and I do NOT blame them. That party was FABULOUS. In fact, I was able to steal a photo with the awesome podcast duo, Gigi and Jasmin of the Knitmore Girls. These ladies are so cool!


    Now as for the other knitters who won Kollage Yarn Hope blanket sets, these ladies were shy about being photographed, but I managed to talk them into snapping their Ravelry badges. Definitely send them congratulations when you can!



    And finally, I could not resist snapping this photo of @kzooErica when she brought me this sock bunny keychain. How fitting is THAT for me??


    Bunny hugs for how,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=111     <![CDATA[Friday's Child Just Wants to Play - Part 2]]> http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=107 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 03:07:00 GMT Hmm... Now where was I? Oh! I just finished writing about the Thursday "Teachers a la Carte" luncheon, which offered a challenge to the teachers in presenting themselves to the students. The most interesting feedback I had was if the teachers could record their presentations into a video so that folks can see them before deciding what classes to take. As for the food, the Caesar salad was a solidly good standby, the salmon was divine, and the peach cobbler was yummy. The only problem we had was an over-zealous server who kept trying to take my plate when I was not finished.
    STITCHES South 2010 - Teachers a la Carte
    My sewing seams class with Margaret Fisher was next, and I was a bit anxious because my finishing skills are still quite new. I only made the required 6 swatches instead of making the extra 6. The extras were for those who did not want to take out the seams that were made to reuse the original 6 swatches. Twelve swatches for class homework seemed a bit daunting to me because of the lack of yarn (for those of you who have seen my stash, you can stop laughing now). Call me frugal and stingy, but using my precious wool that was already allotted to other projects seemed blasphemous. However I did get through the class in one piece with the 6 swatches, and I was a very hoppy bunny with the new techniques I learned. (Can you see where I stitched up the two swatches?)
    STITCHES South 2010 - Margaret Fisher Perfect Seams Class
    Right after class was the Market Opening for students. The Bigsock booth became incredibly busy with knitters who wanted to see and work on the attempt to break the current world record. For those who are curious about the Bigsock's history, feel free to browse its website or check out my personal blog entry when I brought it to STITCHES East last October.

    During all the running around between the Bigsock and other booths, I received a message: "The Ravelry Team needs help with their party. Can you do it? Think others will volunteer?" I immediately contacted Lauren and Jessica and asked them if they would. I had to laugh heartily (and they did later) at their reaction which was "Um... Not sure. What do we have to do?" I replied, "Guys, your answer should be 'YES!!!!' Because when the Ravelry Team asks you do to something for them, you just nod your head and say OKAY." They then agreed to help, and it became a night to remember. :)


    When we arrived during the party's setup, the room was abuzz with the stage being put together, the banner being hung, the food being brought out, and the prizes being organized. The air was filled with much anticipation and of course we were all worried that folks would not have fun. Lisa (Marketing Director of XRX, Inc.) took lots of photos, while Molly and Benjamin helped the Ravelry Team out on the party floor. As for me? I was handing out the raffle tickets, drink tickets, and Ravelry buttons. During the excitement, I received the cutest creamy ivory bunny from the Atlanta Knitting Guild. He is holding what looks like a cake that says "Some Bunny Loves Me" in his arms.



    I had originally wanted to name him "Caesar" after My Little Love, but then the thought occurred to me to ask for some help from you. So here is another contest: Help me decide on a name for this sweet little guy, and win our latest lovely - the "Think Outside the SOX" book! In fact I will toss in some sock yarn and stitch markers (anybunny know of a good stitch marker artist?) to beef up the prize. Now to submit a name just message me here in the KniTalk community, on Twitter, or on Ravelry. I will be taking suggestions until Friday May 21st, and will announce the winner Monday May 24th so that the package will arrive by Memorial Day weekend. How's that for a fun way to kick off summer??

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=107     <![CDATA[Friday's Child Just Wants to Play - Part 1]]> http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=93 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 04:17:00 GMT What a whirlwind!! I drove back from Atlanta to Virginia on Monday, and still am floating on a cloud. The excitement that began when I discovered... What a whirlwind!! I drove back from Atlanta to Virginia on Monday, and still am floating on a cloud. The excitement that began when I discovered about STITCHES South is still with me, and I want it to last as long as possible. How will that happen? Well, I am going to start with a short rehash of the weekend of this incredible visit to Atlanta.

    In a fairly packed car with my friends Lauren and Jessica, we arrived around 1:30AM at the Waverly. Exhausted from driving, I bolted wide awake after sleeping for about 30 minutes. Why? I forgot about my homework swatches for my Thursday class with Margaret Fisher. (OOPS!) Not wanting to make any noise, I timed how long it took to knit one swatch as quietly as I could. Seeing that it took about 20 minutes, I calculated how much time I had before class and resolved to swatch the last 3 pieces. Satisfied with my math, I finally slept.

    Opening Day on Thursday was great fun. I met up with some of my XRX, Inc. team members during breakfast, and proceeded to begin setting up the Bigsock booth. On approaching 10AM, we practically ran into the auditorium where Leslye Solomon and Jane Slicer-Smith were giving the welcoming speeches. A few copies of our newly anticipated book, Thinking Outside the SOX, were given away as prizes.

    The "Teachers à la carte" luncheon was a neat challenge for the teachers and well-received by the students. Each table of students began with one of the teachers. Each teacher would give a short presentation about themselves and their class(es). After a certain amount of time, Benjamin (the CEO of XRX, Inc.) would announce that the teachers needed to switch tables, and they would do so. The luncheon definitely was a hit, and I was asked multiple times if it will be back next year. (I hope so!)

    Okay, enough information overload. Stay tuned for the next chapter of my first STITCHES as part of Team XRX, Inc.

    Meanwhile, a contest for those who are going to Maryland Sheep and Wool, but were not able to purchase one of the tickets for the After Hours Party:

    The first 2 people who come up to me on Saturday and say, "I got chocolate for YOU!" will be given a ticket to the party. I have decided what I will be wearing -- the Clapotis that I was working on for the past 2 weeks. Good luck!!

    Bunny hugs for now,
    Kimberly
    =:8 ]]>     somebunnyslove http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=93     Team Rav http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=105 Sun, 25 Apr 2010 17:59:09 GMT Image: http://www.knittinguniverse.com/natalie/blog/s10fw/IMG_0396b.jpg This is a shot from the Ravelry (http://www.ravelry.com) gathering on...
    This is a shot from the Ravelry gathering on Thursday night. Team Rav, Sarah, Mary-Heather, Benjamin & Molly (of XRX), Jess, & Casey. ]]>     Natalie Sorenson http://www.KniTalk.com/Community/blog.php?b=105