Well, here it is CRAFT DAY at GKT and I have some things to actually show. Stop laughing. Right now. Our knitting class was Thursday (I finally made it to a knitting class). The photo shows what I have managed to eke out in the past four days (be kind as I have never done this before).
Please note: One long wine-colored scarf, completely knitted in the garter stitch, but lacking fringe on the ends as that is included in next week's lesson, when hopefully Jan will have her scarf finished also and can fringe hers at the same time; one green dishcloth, large size, garter stitch; one wine-colored dish cloth, small size, garter/purl stitch with something called a popcorn stitch in it (I think this is a bit small, but we are just using these dishcloths for practice on the different patterns so we can get a feel for things, while at the same time ending up with a completely useful item, also, somewhat "green"; and one blue dishcloth, "still on the needles", medium size, garter stitch, which I started last night during the final game of the NCAA playoffs. (How on earth did Memphis get all the way to the finals and NOT KNOW HOW TO MANAGE PLAYING THE LAST ONE MINUTE OF A GAME WITH HIGH STAKES???? Enough said.)
So, what is next in the knitting realm? Jan and I have a little list of practical things that the instructor says is manageable as we move along...things I have seen on other blogs and in the examples they have around the shop which are on display: dishcloths for pattern practice, scarves, mittens, maybe a hat (Matt wants some warm stocking hats for the winter to wear to and from the pool in the cold), market day bags, golf club head covers, a felted purse, socks, maybe eventually vests/sweaters...possibly an throw (although we have many of those from relatives who so lovingly provided us with such over the years)...and then, maybe I can make some baby/little kid things. So, that's the list...enough to keep me busy for a good long while and then some.
And, lastly to answer your questions about why I am feeling compelled to knit, etc. The answer is fairly simple: I want something to do while I am waiting around for the boys at various activities, especially Matt with the swimming and choir rehearsal gigs which go on for hours and hours at a time. In years past, I had plenty to keep me busy as I was homeschooling the boys and would write/adjust curriculum, plan lessons, write tests, grade papers, record grades, etc., to send in to Seton Homeschool. There was always plenty to keep me occupied. Now, not so much. The knitting, etc. seemed like something that would keep me occupied and also be something useful. (I don't sit still well without something to keep me occupied.) So far, I like it...and I always like learning something new. So, stop laughing. Right. Now. Can't wait to see what you all post this week!