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(591, 2, '2011-10-03 15:34:12', '2011-10-03 22:34:12', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-26', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:34:12', '2011-10-03 22:34:12', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-26/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(592, 2, '2011-10-03 15:34:39', '2011-10-03 22:34:39', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-27', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:34:39', '2011-10-03 22:34:39', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-27/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(593, 2, '2011-10-03 15:34:39', '2011-10-03 22:34:39', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-28', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:34:39', '2011-10-03 22:34:39', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-28/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(594, 2, '2011-10-03 15:34:53', '2011-10-03 22:34:53', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-29', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:34:53', '2011-10-03 22:34:53', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-29/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(595, 2, '2011-10-03 15:34:54', '2011-10-03 22:34:54', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-30', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:34:54', '2011-10-03 22:34:54', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-30/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(596, 2, '2011-10-03 15:35:05', '2011-10-03 22:35:05', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-31', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:35:05', '2011-10-03 22:35:05', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-31/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(597, 2, '2011-10-03 15:35:06', '2011-10-03 22:35:06', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-32', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:35:06', '2011-10-03 22:35:06', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-32/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(598, 2, '2011-10-03 15:35:14', '2011-10-03 22:35:14', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-33', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:35:14', '2011-10-03 22:35:14', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-33/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(599, 2, '2011-10-03 15:35:14', '2011-10-03 22:35:14', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-34', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:35:14', '2011-10-03 22:35:14', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-34/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(600, 2, '2011-10-03 15:35:34', '2011-10-03 22:35:34', 'This weekend I drove up to San Francisco for a wedding for one of my oldest friends.  Coming from LA we finally arrived after a nice long six hour drive.  We went to the Mission District and had dinner at Malai Thai (yum, yum) and then headed to Dalva (a whisky bar) a block away where they make a pretty good Whisky Mule.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOn Saturday we had a little time to kill so we went walking around in the Castro District where I grabbed a coffee and went over to <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>.  It really is a lovely store with a great selection of yarns.  I didn''t have much time when I was there but I did manage to do a good amount of damage.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_545" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Me shopping :) happy as ever."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0344/" rel="attachment wp-att-545"><img class="size-medium wp-image-545" title="DSC_0344" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0344-500x417.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="417" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThese are the four hanks of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns.html">Madelinetosh</a> Tosh Bulky.  This is a test yarn only available at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">ImagiKnit</a>... for now.  I got two hanks in Winter Wheat and Two in Teddy Bear.  I think they might become some sort of scarfy necky thingy in the near future. <em>Watch out, here comes the yarn porn.</em>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0414/" rel="attachment wp-att-537"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-537" title="DSC_0414" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0414-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="640" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis yarn immediately caught my attention because well, first the colors and I''ve never seen anything like it before.  The name of the yarn is called Twirl (colors or natural colors).  I got one skein of a gorgeous color "twirling grass green" (love it!)  and the other "wild mint" - dyed with natural wild mint growing in the pastures.  How special!  The yarns are both 100% CVM wool blend.  It''s not the softest but it definitely has a place in my stash.  I think it will become a market bag... we''ll see.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0423/" rel="attachment wp-att-538"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-538" title="DSC_0423" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0423-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="645" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen of course I showed absolutely no restraint and bought a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Sock</a> in Dried Rose.  This yarn has no plan.... but I''m almost sure it will be knit up very soon.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0431/" rel="attachment wp-att-539"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-539" title="DSC_0431" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0431-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="432" height="653" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd my very last proof of "yes, I have a problem" I bought a hank of a yarn by a local dyer called Elsewhere Fibers - the yarn is hand-dyed with natural fibers using lac, fusticwood and sandalwood. The worsted weight wool that I bought is called Mission St. Merino.  How very San Francisco appropriate.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0434/" rel="attachment wp-att-540"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-540" title="DSC_0434" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0434-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAs we were about to leave I caught a glimpse of a stack of magazines by the door on a table.  And there it was! My cover.  The newest issue from <a href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Knitting/Magazines/Interweave-Knits-Holiday-Gifts-2011.html">Interweave Press Knits Holiday Gifts</a> is out and my Peace Tree Hat made it on the cover.  I used a wonderful <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">merino/alpaca</a> blend from <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Detail.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca&amp;Color=Ivory">ShiBui Knits</a>. A pleasure to knit with.  It reminds me a lot of the <a href="http://blueskyalpacas.com/yarns/worsted-hand-dyes/">Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes</a>, which I love.  But the <a href="http://www.shibuiknits.com/Yarn/Colorways.php?Yarn=Merino%20Alpaca">ShiBui Merino Alpaca</a> yarn is a true worsted weight.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0348/" rel="attachment wp-att-544"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-544" title="DSC_0348" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0348-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="334" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;">Here are a couple of photos of Rory (the bf) and me in front of the shop.</p>\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0350/" rel="attachment wp-att-543"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-543" title="DSC_0350" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0350-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/rory-strangling-mt/" rel="attachment wp-att-542"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-542" title="rory strangling mt" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/rory-strangling-mt-500x486.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="486" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to Height Street for lunch.  We walked up the street a bit and stopped to eat at <a href="http://www.thegrindcafe.com/">The Grind Cafe</a>.  We happened to just stumble upon this place, but it was very lively and right after we ordered a huge wave of hungry people came in.  Now- I''m no food critic, but I do like to eat and I must say, they make a pretty good chicken Cesar Salad.  Rory got the pulled pork sandwich, I snuck in a bite and that was pretty good too.  AND THE FRIES! YUUUUM!!!!  On the walk  from the car we cam across this on the sidewalk.  It just made things a little more special, we don''t have anything like this in LA.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/weekend-trip-to-san-francisco/dsc_0405/" rel="attachment wp-att-541"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-541" title="DSC_0405" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/DSC_0405-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter lunch we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding.  We had a lot to drink and a great time.  Then slept it off and drove another six hours to get home.  Whew!  What a jam packed weekend.  It was great.  Next time I think we might go for a little bit longer.', 'Weekend Trip to San Francisco', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '527-revision-35', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:35:34', '2011-10-03 22:35:34', '', 527, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/527-revision-35/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(601, 2, '2011-09-05 11:39:58', '2011-09-05 18:39:58', '<p style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately when I am hard at work creating new patterns my blog suffers from neglect.   Yes, I know, it''s sad.  But on the bright side I have a new (triangular-ish) shawl pattern coming out in the next month that is completely nameless.  What shall we call it?  The person to come up with the best name for the shawl will get a free copy of the pattern.  Here is a small snapshot of the shawl.  Lets see what you come up with.  Please leave your suggestions in the comment box.  More than one suggestion is more than welcome.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/name-contest/untitled-shawlette/" rel="attachment wp-att-516"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-516" title="Untitled Shawlette" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Untitled-Shawlette.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="449" /></a></p>', 'Name Contest!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '515-revision-9', '', '', '2011-09-05 11:39:58', '2011-09-05 18:39:58', '', 515, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/515-revision-9/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(602, 2, '2011-10-03 15:36:12', '2011-10-03 22:36:12', '<p style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately when I am hard at work creating new patterns my blog suffers from neglect.   Yes, I know, it''s sad.  But on the bright side I have a new (triangular-ish) shawl pattern coming out in the next month that is completely nameless.  What shall we call it?  The person to come up with the best name for the shawl will get a free copy of the pattern.  Here is a small snapshot of the shawl.  Lets see what you come up with.  Please leave your suggestions in the comment box.  More than one suggestion is more than welcome.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/name-contest/untitled-shawlette/" rel="attachment wp-att-516"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-516" title="Untitled Shawlette" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Untitled-Shawlette.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="449" /></a></p>', 'Name Contest!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '515-revision-10', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:36:12', '2011-10-03 22:36:12', '', 515, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/515-revision-10/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(605, 2, '2011-10-03 15:36:12', '2011-10-03 22:36:12', '<p style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately when I am hard at work creating new patterns my blog suffers from neglect.   Yes, I know, it''s sad.  But on the bright side I have a new (triangular-ish) shawl pattern coming out in the next month that is completely nameless.  What shall we call it?  The person to come up with the best name for the shawl will get a free copy of the pattern.  Here is a small snapshot of the shawl.  Lets see what you come up with.  Please leave your suggestions in the comment box.  More than one suggestion is more than welcome.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/name-contest/untitled-shawlette/" rel="attachment wp-att-516"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-516" title="Untitled Shawlette" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Untitled-Shawlette.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="449" /></a></p>', 'Name Contest!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '515-revision-11', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:36:12', '2011-10-03 22:36:12', '', 515, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/515-revision-11/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(606, 2, '2011-10-03 15:38:58', '2011-10-03 22:38:58', '<p style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately when I am hard at work creating new patterns my blog suffers from neglect.   Yes, I know, it''s sad.  But on the bright side I have a new (triangular-ish) shawl pattern coming out in the next month that is completely nameless.  What shall we call it?  The person to come up with the best name for the shawl will get a free copy of the pattern.  Here is a small snapshot of the shawl.  Lets see what you come up with.  Please leave your suggestions in the comment box.  More than one suggestion is more than welcome.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/name-contest/untitled-shawlette/" rel="attachment wp-att-516"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-516" title="Untitled Shawlette" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Untitled-Shawlette.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="449" /></a></p>', 'Name Contest!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '515-revision-12', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:38:58', '2011-10-03 22:38:58', '', 515, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/515-revision-12/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(607, 2, '2011-10-03 15:38:58', '2011-10-03 22:38:58', '<p style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately when I am hard at work creating new patterns my blog suffers from neglect.   Yes, I know, it''s sad.  But on the bright side I have a new (triangular-ish) shawl pattern coming out in the next month that is completely nameless.  What shall we call it?  The person to come up with the best name for the shawl will get a free copy of the pattern.  Here is a small snapshot of the shawl.  Lets see what you come up with.  Please leave your suggestions in the comment box.  More than one suggestion is more than welcome.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/name-contest/untitled-shawlette/" rel="attachment wp-att-516"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-516" title="Untitled Shawlette" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Untitled-Shawlette.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="449" /></a></p>', 'Name Contest!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '515-revision-13', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:38:58', '2011-10-03 22:38:58', '', 515, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/515-revision-13/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(608, 2, '2011-10-03 15:39:35', '2011-10-03 22:39:35', '<p style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately when I am hard at work creating new patterns my blog suffers from neglect.   Yes, I know, it''s sad.  But on the bright side I have a new (triangular-ish) shawl pattern coming out in the next month that is completely nameless.  What shall we call it?  The person to come up with the best name for the shawl will get a free copy of the pattern.  Here is a small snapshot of the shawl.  Lets see what you come up with.  Please leave your suggestions in the comment box.  More than one suggestion is more than welcome.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/09/name-contest/untitled-shawlette/" rel="attachment wp-att-516"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-516" title="Untitled Shawlette" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Untitled-Shawlette.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="449" /></a></p>', 'Name Contest!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '515-revision-14', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:39:35', '2011-10-03 22:39:35', '', 515, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/515-revision-14/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(609, 2, '2011-08-28 11:35:30', '2011-08-28 18:35:30', '25% off <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> pattern now through September 5th.  Enjoy!', 'Crashing Waves on SALE!!!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '512-revision-2', '', '', '2011-08-28 11:35:30', '2011-08-28 18:35:30', '', 512, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/08/512-revision-2/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(610, 2, '2011-08-27 19:17:06', '2011-08-28 02:17:06', 'Happy Saturday everyone!  I just moved last week so I haven''t had much time to start anything new and exciting.  But today I thought it would be nice to talk about the many faces of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\nI have knit countless of these shawls and shawlettes as gifts.  Every time I make one the personality of the recipient shows through the yarn choice and color.  I have used everything from hand-spun, hand-dyed, to stainless steel.  Here are some images of the versatility of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\nIn this version I used less than one hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/prairie.html">Madelinetosh Prairie</a> (100% superwash merino, 840 yards) in Vintage Frame (discontinued colorway).  This is the large version featured in the pattern.  Here is my lovely little sister modeling the shawl.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1287.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-482" title="IMG_1287" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1287-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="508" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1268.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-480 aligncenter" title="IMG_1268" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1268-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="507" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1349.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-483" title="IMG_1349" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1349-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="684" height="911" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn this version I used one strand of <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/A-20">Habu A-20 Silk Stainless Steel</a> in 7 Yamabuki Orange and <a href="http://jadesapphire.com/">Jade Sapphire Lacy Lamb</a> in NY109.  I thought that the Lacy Lamb needed a little Umph! which is why I chose to pair it with the Silk Stainless.  The Silk Stainless is one of my favorite yarns, it seems like I have every color in my stash and I want to use it in everything I make.  Here are a few images of the two held together living merrily in harmony.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1067.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-478 aligncenter" title="IMG_1067" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1067-1024x724.jpg" alt="" width="679" height="479" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crashing-waves-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-493" title="Crashing waves 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crashing-waves-6-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="515" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou can see how well the two yarns work together.  The Lacy Lamb has such a delicate feel and look and is paired with the Silk Stainless.  The Silk Stainless hugs the Lacy Lamb and adds a little bit of what I call "crunch factor" to the texture.\r\n\r\nIn the next version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> I used my own hand-spun.  The roving was a 50% silk 50% merino blend.  I dyed it "Grace''s Green" in the <a href="http://www.pagewoodfarm.com">Pagewood Farm</a> dye studio where Robin Page has been very kind to invite me several times for "dye-day."  I spun the roving into a lovely single ply that is thick and thin in texture.  In the second image you can see more of the color variegation and inconsistency of my spinning.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1696.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-489" title="IMG_1696" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1696-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="916" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1691.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-485" title="IMG_1691" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1691-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="917" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was only able to get a couple of good shots of this version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I knit this one out of <a href="http://www.koigu.com/yarns.html">Koigu KPM </a>(in three different colors).  I know it''s hardly noticeable.  I used two shades of maroon (one dark and one light) and one shade of light blue.  When I ran out of the dark maroon 2239 (in the second to last stripe) is switched to the lighter one 1120 (you can see this better in the second image).  Then I ran out of the lighter maroon, so I bound off in the light blue 1053.  I definitely had a lot of fun knitting this shawlette.... there was never a dull moment, I was either always changing color, working the lace, or having fun with the short-row bind off.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203.jpg">\r\n</a>\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0199.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-487 alignnone" title="DSC_0199" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0199-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="503" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203.jpg"><img title="DSC_0203" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="502" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere is yet another version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I did not knit this one, my friend Hanna knit this for <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>.  I would say this is the most interesting version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> I have seen so far.  I love love love this one.  She used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-merino-light.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light</a> in Faded Chinos alternating every two rows with <a href="http://habutextiles.com/A-172">Habu Textiles A-172 Spiral Slub</a> in Wine.  Here is my other friend Jess modeling the shawl.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-466" title="DSC_0247" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0251.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-465" title="DSC_0251" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0251-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="689" height="459" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the photo below you can see how the striping looks up close.  When she got to the lace Hanna only used the <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-merino-light.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light</a>.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247.jpg">\r\n</a>\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0237.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-467" title="DSC_0237" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0237-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="689" height="459" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd last but not least.  This past spring I made myself a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> Shawl.  I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/prairie.html">Madelinetish Prairie</a> in Stovepipe and made myself a full shawl version (and I still have yarn left over, that Prairie goes a long way).  To make the shawlette larger just continue to increase in the established manner until the desired length before the lace portion.  Make sure that your stitch count is a multiple of 6+1.  I also extended the lace portion of the shawl by working a few more repeats.  Here is Jess modeling the shawl version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0224.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-476" title="DSC_0224" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0224-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0228.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-469" title="DSC_0228" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0228-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0213.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-474" title="DSC_0213" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0213-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="703" height="469" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hope you have enjoyed the many faces of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I would love to see your version as well.  Please share your pictures on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Ravelry</a> and in my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/grace-akhrem-designs">group</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlso don''t forget that until August 31st (Pacific Time) you can receive 30% off the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern on Ravelry by using the promotion code rufflyruff.  Enjoy!', 'The many faces of Crashing Waves', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '463-revision-12', '', '', '2011-08-27 19:17:06', '2011-08-28 02:17:06', '', 463, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/08/463-revision-12/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(611, 2, '2011-08-01 18:33:39', '2011-08-02 01:33:39', '<p style="text-align: left;">I am slowly moving into the world of garments as my attention span slowly increases.  The sweetheart Cardigan is a one brain cell knitting project.  When everything else is frustrating and you just need to keep those idle hands busy, Sweetheart Cardigan is the right project for you.  The sweater is knit from the top-down and implements simple techniques such as a provisional cast on, pleats and a little button detail.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-441" title="Sweetheart Cardi 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6-996x1024.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="563" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this sweater using <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/gems_sport.shtml">Louet Gems Sport</a> (100% superwash merino wool, 225 yards) in #36 Linen Grey.  The Gems is a really wonderful sport yarn, and when they say superwash they mean it.  I threw this sweater both into the wash (with a little <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/soak.html">Soak</a> of course) and the dryer and it still looks great.  Then I added three vintage buttons (purchased at <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>) down the button-band and one on each sleeve.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Now I am making up one for my self in <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/yarns-pashmina.html">Madelinetosh Pashmina</a> (75% superwash wool, 15% silk, 10% cashmere, 360 yards) in the Norway Spruce colorway.  I am very excited.  I hardly every have time to knit for myself.  I take this one with my everywhere I go because I never have to look at the pattern to see what''s next.  I hope to squeeze in a few rows every week.  Here is a sneak peek of my sweater in progress with my alien stitch markers that I got from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadpassion">BeadPassion</a> on <a href="http://www.etsy.com">Etsy</a>.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-444" title="SAMSUNG" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="329" height="440" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Here are a few more photo of the cardigan for a 360 degree feel.  Type in the promotion code sweetness on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweetheart-cardigan-5">Ravelry</a> to receive a 25% discount on your purchase now through August 22.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-436" title="Sweetheart Cardi 1" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-438" title="Sweetheart Cardi 3" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-439" title="Sweetheart Cardi 4" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Keep reading to see the winner of the last post, I should be announcing it very soon.  I will also be having another giveaway in the next few weeks, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for that.  And don''t forget use the promotion code rufflyruff on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ravelry</a> to receive 30% my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern good now through August 31.</p>\r\n', 'Sweetheart Cardigan', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '435-revision-16', '', '', '2011-08-01 18:33:39', '2011-08-02 01:33:39', '', 435, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/08/435-revision-16/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(612, 2, '2011-08-14 11:41:45', '2011-08-14 18:41:45', 'I have decided to make <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/victoria-22">Victoria</a> 50% off through the rest of today (pacific time) on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/victoria-22">Ravelry</a>.  This project is perfect for a hank of <a href="http://jadesapphire.com/">Jade Sapphire 4ply Cashmere</a>.  Enjoy!  Happy Sunday!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Victoria.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-460 aligncenter" title="Victoria" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Victoria-835x1024.jpg" alt="" width="715" height="876" /></a>', '50% off Victoria pattern', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '459-revision-2', '', '', '2011-08-14 11:41:45', '2011-08-14 18:41:45', '', 459, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/08/459-revision-2/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(613, 2, '2011-10-03 15:40:24', '2011-10-03 22:40:24', '<p style="text-align: left;">I am slowly moving into the world of garments as my attention span slowly increases.  The sweetheart Cardigan is a one brain cell knitting project.  When everything else is frustrating and you just need to keep those idle hands busy, Sweetheart Cardigan is the right project for you.  The sweater is knit from the top-down and implements simple techniques such as a provisional cast on, pleats and a little button detail.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-441" title="Sweetheart Cardi 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6-996x1024.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="563" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this sweater using <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/gems_sport.shtml">Louet Gems Sport</a> (100% superwash merino wool, 225 yards) in #36 Linen Grey.  The Gems is a really wonderful sport yarn, and when they say superwash they mean it.  I threw this sweater both into the wash (with a little <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/soak.html">Soak</a> of course) and the dryer and it still looks great.  Then I added three vintage buttons (purchased at <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>) down the button-band and one on each sleeve.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Now I am making up one for my self in <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/yarns-pashmina.html">Madelinetosh Pashmina</a> (75% superwash wool, 15% silk, 10% cashmere, 360 yards) in the Norway Spruce colorway.  I am very excited.  I hardly every have time to knit for myself.  I take this one with my everywhere I go because I never have to look at the pattern to see what''s next.  I hope to squeeze in a few rows every week.  Here is a sneak peek of my sweater in progress with my alien stitch markers that I got from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadpassion">BeadPassion</a> on <a href="http://www.etsy.com">Etsy</a>.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-444" title="SAMSUNG" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="329" height="440" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Here are a few more photo of the cardigan for a 360 degree feel.  Type in the promotion code sweetness on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweetheart-cardigan-5">Ravelry</a> to receive a 25% discount on your purchase now through August 22.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-436" title="Sweetheart Cardi 1" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-438" title="Sweetheart Cardi 3" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-439" title="Sweetheart Cardi 4" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Keep reading to see the winner of the last post, I should be announcing it very soon.  I will also be having another giveaway in the next few weeks, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for that.  And don''t forget use the promotion code rufflyruff on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ravelry</a> to receive 30% my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern good now through August 31.</p>\r\n', 'Sweetheart Cardigan', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '435-revision-17', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:40:24', '2011-10-03 22:40:24', '', 435, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/435-revision-17/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(614, 2, '2011-10-03 15:39:52', '2011-10-03 22:39:52', '25% off <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> pattern now through September 5th.  Enjoy!', 'Crashing Waves on SALE!!!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '512-revision-3', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:39:52', '2011-10-03 22:39:52', '', 512, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/512-revision-3/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(615, 2, '2011-07-25 16:33:28', '2011-07-25 23:33:28', '[caption id="attachment_425" align="alignnone" width="619" caption="Nicole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Nicole-5.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-425" title="Nicole hat" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Nicole-5-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="619" height="826" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI have decided to have a give-a-way.  Yay!  Leave a comment on my blog under this post by midnight on Sunday, July 31 to be entered into the drawing.  I will choose one winner for this drawing.  The winner will receive the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/nicole-10">Nicole</a> pattern PDF as well as a hank of <a href="http://www.pagewoodfarm.com">Pagewood Farm</a> Tapestry in the gorgeous Grasshopper colorway and of course a fun button for a little pizazz.', 'Giveaway!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '424-revision-7', '', '', '2011-07-25 16:33:28', '2011-07-25 23:33:28', '', 424, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/07/424-revision-7/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(616, 2, '2011-07-11 15:42:27', '2011-07-11 22:42:27', 'I finally finished typing up the pattern.  Phew!  This is one of my new favorite patterns!  I knit it in two days and have worn it at least a couple dozen times in the last month. This tunic is a super simple knit with just enough to keep you interested, but mindless enough where you can still plop yourself in front of the t.v. and knit away.  I used two yarns for this pattern, <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-111.html">Habu Textiles A-111 Tsumugi Silk Combination</a> (100% silk) in color 2-Grey and <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a> (100% wet spun linen) in 43-Pewter.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_401" align="aligncenter" width="349" caption="Full view of Janna&#39;s Tunic"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0990.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-401  " title="DSC_0990" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0990-563x1024.jpg" alt="" width="349" height="636" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\nThis tunic is knit in one piece in the round (for those of you who don''t like purling or seaming).  I cast on using the <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-111.html">Habu Tsumugi Silk</a>, something I have never really been sure what to do with because of its unique texture and construction (until now!). I was sitting at the <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">shop</a> and just about to cast on and there it was sitting on the coffee table whispering - "Grace, look how pretty I am.  I match your linen perfectly."  So I grabbed a skein, cast on and never looked back.  It''s actually really nice to work with and very strong in structure.  I added a little button detail (which only function is decorative) because I just couldn''t resist.  Here is a closer image of the Habu Tsumugi and the buttons!\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_399" align="aligncenter" width="353" caption="Side button detail"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Jannas-Tunic.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-399  " title="Jannas Tunic" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Jannas-Tunic-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="353" height="526" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe body of the tunic is made out of the <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax sport</a>- A great yarn for this hot weather.  It is knit in the round with lots of fun mindless stockinette stitch.  When you get to the front and back neckline there is a fun pleat detail for a little something different.  Here is a close up of the small pleats on the front and the larger pleats on the back neckline.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_405" align="aligncenter" width="355" caption="Pleat detail on front"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0884.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-405  " title="DSC_0884" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0884-689x1024.jpg" alt="" width="355" height="526" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_406" align="aligncenter" width="360" caption="Pleat detail on back"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0885.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-406 " title="DSC_0885" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0885-1024x825.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="291" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThis pattern is available for PDF download on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Ravelry</a>, use the promotion code AuntJanna for a discount on your purchase.  This promotion will run now through July 15th at 11:59pm.  I hope you enjoy knitting it as much as I did!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nMake sure to follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/search/graceakhrem">twitter</a>!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;', 'Janna''s Tunic', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '398-revision-16', '', '', '2011-07-11 15:42:27', '2011-07-11 22:42:27', '', 398, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/07/398-revision-16/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(617, 2, '2011-10-03 15:41:48', '2011-10-03 22:41:48', '<p style="text-align: left;">I am slowly moving into the world of garments as my attention span slowly increases.  The sweetheart Cardigan is a one brain cell knitting project.  When everything else is frustrating and you just need to keep those idle hands busy, Sweetheart Cardigan is the right project for you.  The sweater is knit from the top-down and implements simple techniques such as a provisional cast on, pleats and a little button detail.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-441" title="Sweetheart Cardi 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6-996x1024.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="563" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this sweater using <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/gems_sport.shtml">Louet Gems Sport</a> (100% superwash merino wool, 225 yards) in #36 Linen Grey.  The Gems is a really wonderful sport yarn, and when they say superwash they mean it.  I threw this sweater both into the wash (with a little <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/soak.html">Soak</a> of course) and the dryer and it still looks great.  Then I added three vintage buttons (purchased at <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>) down the button-band and one on each sleeve.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Now I am making up one for my self in <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/yarns-pashmina.html">Madelinetosh Pashmina</a> (75% superwash wool, 15% silk, 10% cashmere, 360 yards) in the Norway Spruce colorway.  I am very excited.  I hardly every have time to knit for myself.  I take this one with my everywhere I go because I never have to look at the pattern to see what''s next.  I hope to squeeze in a few rows every week.  Here is a sneak peek of my sweater in progress with my alien stitch markers that I got from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadpassion">BeadPassion</a> on <a href="http://www.etsy.com">Etsy</a>.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-444" title="SAMSUNG" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="329" height="440" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Here are a few more photo of the cardigan for a 360 degree feel.  Type in the promotion code sweetness on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweetheart-cardigan-5">Ravelry</a> to receive a 25% discount on your purchase now through August 22.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-436" title="Sweetheart Cardi 1" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-438" title="Sweetheart Cardi 3" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-439" title="Sweetheart Cardi 4" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Keep reading to see the winner of the last post, I should be announcing it very soon.  I will also be having another giveaway in the next few weeks, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for that.  And don''t forget use the promotion code rufflyruff on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ravelry</a> to receive 30% my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern good now through August 31.</p>\r\n', 'Sweetheart Cardigan', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '435-revision-18', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:41:48', '2011-10-03 22:41:48', '', 435, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/435-revision-18/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(618, 2, '2011-07-05 08:27:36', '2011-07-05 15:27:36', '<p style="text-align: left;">I thought my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled </a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ascot</a> pattern could use a little sprucing up.  I found some yummy yarn in my stash -  I used one hank of the <a href="http://www.sanguinegryphon.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=index&amp;cPath=18_65">Sanguine Gryphon Bugga</a> (70/20/10 - merino/cashmere/nylon blend) that I picked up at Sock Summit ''09 for the body of the scarf and <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-20.html">Habu Textiles Silk Stainless</a> (a personal favorite) doubled for the ruffles.  I knit the body of the scarf as the pattern directs but made modifications when I got to the ruffle.  Use the Ravelry promotion code rufflyruff to receive 30% off between now and August 31st.</p>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_377" align="alignnone" width="428" caption="2009 version of the Ruffled Ascot"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ruffled-ascot-cl.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-389" title="ruffled ascot cl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ruffled-ascot-cl.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="642" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_362" align="alignnone" width="426" caption="2011 version of the Ruffled Ascot"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0088.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-362" title="DSC_0088" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0088-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="426" height="635" /></a>[/caption]\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">The modifications are as follows:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">After removing waste yarn and placing all live sts onto needle use any fingering or lace weight yarn in a dark color (or any color that matches your ruffle yarn) knit 6 rows. Bind off all sts.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">***With the RS facing and using two strands of Habu Silk Stainless (I used Top Brown and Black) pick up and knit 41 sts from the garter ridges closest to the body of the scarf.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 1 (WS): Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 2 (RS): K1, *yo, k3; repeat from * to last st, yo, k1.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 2: Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 3: Knit.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 4: Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 5: K1, *yo, k3; repeat from * to last st, yo, k1.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 6: Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Bind off pattern: Bind off one stitch.  *Place stitch from right hand needle back onto left hand needle.  Cast on one stitch using the knit cast on method.  Bind off 2 sts.  Repeat from * until all sts have been bound off.***</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Repeat from *** to *** for every other garter ridge in the right side of the work.  Work the same set of ruffle instructions for the other edge.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">More photos for inspiration. Enjoy!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0113.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-367" title="DSC_0113" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0113-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0100.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-365" title="DSC_0100" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0100-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0093.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-364" title="DSC_0093" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0093-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0089.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-363" title="DSC_0089" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0089-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>', 'Ruffled Ascot Revisited', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '356-revision-29', '', '', '2011-07-05 08:27:36', '2011-07-05 15:27:36', '', 356, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/07/356-revision-29/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(619, 2, '2011-10-03 15:42:33', '2011-10-03 22:42:33', '<p style="text-align: left;">I am slowly moving into the world of garments as my attention span slowly increases.  The sweetheart Cardigan is a one brain cell knitting project.  When everything else is frustrating and you just need to keep those idle hands busy, Sweetheart Cardigan is the right project for you.  The sweater is knit from the top-down and implements simple techniques such as a provisional cast on, pleats and a little button detail.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-441" title="Sweetheart Cardi 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-6-996x1024.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="563" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this sweater using <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/gems_sport.shtml">Louet Gems Sport</a> (100% superwash merino wool, 225 yards) in #36 Linen Grey.  The Gems is a really wonderful sport yarn, and when they say superwash they mean it.  I threw this sweater both into the wash (with a little <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/soak.html">Soak</a> of course) and the dryer and it still looks great.  Then I added three vintage buttons (purchased at <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>) down the button-band and one on each sleeve.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Now I am making up one for my self in <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/yarns-pashmina.html">Madelinetosh Pashmina</a> (75% superwash wool, 15% silk, 10% cashmere, 360 yards) in the Norway Spruce colorway.  I am very excited.  I hardly every have time to knit for myself.  I take this one with my everywhere I go because I never have to look at the pattern to see what''s next.  I hope to squeeze in a few rows every week.  Here is a sneak peek of my sweater in progress with my alien stitch markers that I got from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadpassion">BeadPassion</a> on <a href="http://www.etsy.com">Etsy</a>.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-444" title="SAMSUNG" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-WIP-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="329" height="440" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Here are a few more photo of the cardigan for a 360 degree feel.  Type in the promotion code sweetness on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweetheart-cardigan-5">Ravelry</a> to receive a 25% discount on your purchase now through August 22.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-436" title="Sweetheart Cardi 1" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-1-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-438" title="Sweetheart Cardi 3" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-3-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a>     <a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-439" title="Sweetheart Cardi 4" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Sweetheart-Cardi-4-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Keep reading to see the winner of the last post, I should be announcing it very soon.  I will also be having another giveaway in the next few weeks, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for that.  And don''t forget use the promotion code rufflyruff on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ravelry</a> to receive 30% my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern good now through August 31.</p>\r\n', 'Sweetheart Cardigan', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '435-revision-19', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:42:33', '2011-10-03 22:42:33', '', 435, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/435-revision-19/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(620, 2, '2011-10-03 15:40:11', '2011-10-03 22:40:11', 'Happy Saturday everyone!  I just moved last week so I haven''t had much time to start anything new and exciting.  But today I thought it would be nice to talk about the many faces of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\nI have knit countless of these shawls and shawlettes as gifts.  Every time I make one the personality of the recipient shows through the yarn choice and color.  I have used everything from hand-spun, hand-dyed, to stainless steel.  Here are some images of the versatility of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\nIn this version I used less than one hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/prairie.html">Madelinetosh Prairie</a> (100% superwash merino, 840 yards) in Vintage Frame (discontinued colorway).  This is the large version featured in the pattern.  Here is my lovely little sister modeling the shawl.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1287.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-482" title="IMG_1287" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1287-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="508" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1268.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-480 aligncenter" title="IMG_1268" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1268-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="507" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1349.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-483" title="IMG_1349" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1349-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="684" height="911" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn this version I used one strand of <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/A-20">Habu A-20 Silk Stainless Steel</a> in 7 Yamabuki Orange and <a href="http://jadesapphire.com/">Jade Sapphire Lacy Lamb</a> in NY109.  I thought that the Lacy Lamb needed a little Umph! which is why I chose to pair it with the Silk Stainless.  The Silk Stainless is one of my favorite yarns, it seems like I have every color in my stash and I want to use it in everything I make.  Here are a few images of the two held together living merrily in harmony.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1067.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-478 aligncenter" title="IMG_1067" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1067-1024x724.jpg" alt="" width="679" height="479" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crashing-waves-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-493" title="Crashing waves 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crashing-waves-6-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="515" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou can see how well the two yarns work together.  The Lacy Lamb has such a delicate feel and look and is paired with the Silk Stainless.  The Silk Stainless hugs the Lacy Lamb and adds a little bit of what I call "crunch factor" to the texture.\r\n\r\nIn the next version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> I used my own hand-spun.  The roving was a 50% silk 50% merino blend.  I dyed it "Grace''s Green" in the <a href="http://www.pagewoodfarm.com">Pagewood Farm</a> dye studio where Robin Page has been very kind to invite me several times for "dye-day."  I spun the roving into a lovely single ply that is thick and thin in texture.  In the second image you can see more of the color variegation and inconsistency of my spinning.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1696.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-489" title="IMG_1696" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1696-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="916" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1691.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-485" title="IMG_1691" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1691-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="917" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was only able to get a couple of good shots of this version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I knit this one out of <a href="http://www.koigu.com/yarns.html">Koigu KPM </a>(in three different colors).  I know it''s hardly noticeable.  I used two shades of maroon (one dark and one light) and one shade of light blue.  When I ran out of the dark maroon 2239 (in the second to last stripe) is switched to the lighter one 1120 (you can see this better in the second image).  Then I ran out of the lighter maroon, so I bound off in the light blue 1053.  I definitely had a lot of fun knitting this shawlette.... there was never a dull moment, I was either always changing color, working the lace, or having fun with the short-row bind off.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203.jpg">\r\n</a>\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0199.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-487 alignnone" title="DSC_0199" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0199-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="503" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203.jpg"><img title="DSC_0203" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="502" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere is yet another version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I did not knit this one, my friend Hanna knit this for <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>.  I would say this is the most interesting version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> I have seen so far.  I love love love this one.  She used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-merino-light.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light</a> in Faded Chinos alternating every two rows with <a href="http://habutextiles.com/A-172">Habu Textiles A-172 Spiral Slub</a> in Wine.  Here is my other friend Jess modeling the shawl.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-466" title="DSC_0247" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0251.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-465" title="DSC_0251" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0251-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="689" height="459" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the photo below you can see how the striping looks up close.  When she got to the lace Hanna only used the <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-merino-light.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light</a>.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247.jpg">\r\n</a>\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0237.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-467" title="DSC_0237" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0237-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="689" height="459" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd last but not least.  This past spring I made myself a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> Shawl.  I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/prairie.html">Madelinetish Prairie</a> in Stovepipe and made myself a full shawl version (and I still have yarn left over, that Prairie goes a long way).  To make the shawlette larger just continue to increase in the established manner until the desired length before the lace portion.  Make sure that your stitch count is a multiple of 6+1.  I also extended the lace portion of the shawl by working a few more repeats.  Here is Jess modeling the shawl version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0224.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-476" title="DSC_0224" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0224-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0228.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-469" title="DSC_0228" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0228-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0213.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-474" title="DSC_0213" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0213-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="703" height="469" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hope you have enjoyed the many faces of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I would love to see your version as well.  Please share your pictures on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Ravelry</a> and in my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/grace-akhrem-designs">group</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlso don''t forget that until August 31st (Pacific Time) you can receive 30% off the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern on Ravelry by using the promotion code rufflyruff.  Enjoy!', 'The many faces of Crashing Waves', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '463-revision-13', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:40:11', '2011-10-03 22:40:11', '', 463, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/463-revision-13/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(621, 2, '2011-06-29 00:03:36', '2011-06-29 07:03:36', '<img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-304" title="DSC_0250" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/dsc_0250-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" />I am very excited, today is the day!  I am finally entering the 21st century and the blog world.  Hoorah!  I definitely have to give a special thanks to my dear friend of <a href="http://www.graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> for spending all the time of designing and creating my website.  He has done such an incredible job.\r\n\r\nThank you Graphic Agenda for making my vision a reality.  In honor of you I would like to introduce my newest pattern Gregorio.\r\n\r\nI originally designed this pattern in Cascade 128, but then turned to one of my personal favorites Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Hand-Dyes.  You will only need two hanks, one in each color.  With the leftovers you can made a second hat switching up the MC and the CC.  I hope you enjoy knitting up this pattern as much as I did.  This being such a quick knit you can make one up for everyone on your holiday gift list and still have time to knit for yourself!\r\n\r\nAs of June 29th this PDF will be available for purchase on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/gregorio">Ravelry</a> or Deep South Fibers.  Happy knitting!\r\n\r\nFor wholesale inquiries please contact <a href="http://www.deepsouthfibers.com">Deep South Fibers</a>.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://gfxtablet:58793/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/DSC_0250.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-304" title="DSC_0250" src="http://gfxtablet:58793/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/dsc_0250-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" /></a>', 'Welcome & Thank You!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '301-revision-24', '', '', '2011-06-29 00:03:36', '2011-06-29 07:03:36', '', 301, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/06/301-revision-24/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(622, 2, '2011-10-03 15:41:55', '2011-10-03 22:41:55', '25% off <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> pattern now through September 5th.  Enjoy!', 'Crashing Waves on SALE!!!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '512-revision-4', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:41:55', '2011-10-03 22:41:55', '', 512, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/512-revision-4/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(623, 2, '2011-10-03 15:46:16', '2011-10-03 22:46:16', '25% off <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> pattern now through September 5th.  Enjoy!', 'Crashing Waves on SALE!!!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '512-revision-5', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:46:16', '2011-10-03 22:46:16', '', 512, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/512-revision-5/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(624, 2, '2011-10-03 15:43:10', '2011-10-03 22:43:10', 'Happy Saturday everyone!  I just moved last week so I haven''t had much time to start anything new and exciting.  But today I thought it would be nice to talk about the many faces of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\nI have knit countless of these shawls and shawlettes as gifts.  Every time I make one the personality of the recipient shows through the yarn choice and color.  I have used everything from hand-spun, hand-dyed, to stainless steel.  Here are some images of the versatility of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\nIn this version I used less than one hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/prairie.html">Madelinetosh Prairie</a> (100% superwash merino, 840 yards) in Vintage Frame (discontinued colorway).  This is the large version featured in the pattern.  Here is my lovely little sister modeling the shawl.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1287.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-482" title="IMG_1287" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1287-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="508" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1268.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-480 aligncenter" title="IMG_1268" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1268-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="678" height="507" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1349.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-483" title="IMG_1349" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1349-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="684" height="911" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn this version I used one strand of <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/A-20">Habu A-20 Silk Stainless Steel</a> in 7 Yamabuki Orange and <a href="http://jadesapphire.com/">Jade Sapphire Lacy Lamb</a> in NY109.  I thought that the Lacy Lamb needed a little Umph! which is why I chose to pair it with the Silk Stainless.  The Silk Stainless is one of my favorite yarns, it seems like I have every color in my stash and I want to use it in everything I make.  Here are a few images of the two held together living merrily in harmony.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1067.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-478 aligncenter" title="IMG_1067" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1067-1024x724.jpg" alt="" width="679" height="479" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crashing-waves-6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-493" title="Crashing waves 6" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crashing-waves-6-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="515" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou can see how well the two yarns work together.  The Lacy Lamb has such a delicate feel and look and is paired with the Silk Stainless.  The Silk Stainless hugs the Lacy Lamb and adds a little bit of what I call "crunch factor" to the texture.\r\n\r\nIn the next version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> I used my own hand-spun.  The roving was a 50% silk 50% merino blend.  I dyed it "Grace''s Green" in the <a href="http://www.pagewoodfarm.com">Pagewood Farm</a> dye studio where Robin Page has been very kind to invite me several times for "dye-day."  I spun the roving into a lovely single ply that is thick and thin in texture.  In the second image you can see more of the color variegation and inconsistency of my spinning.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1696.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-489" title="IMG_1696" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1696-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="916" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1691.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-485" title="IMG_1691" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_1691-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="688" height="917" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI was only able to get a couple of good shots of this version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I knit this one out of <a href="http://www.koigu.com/yarns.html">Koigu KPM </a>(in three different colors).  I know it''s hardly noticeable.  I used two shades of maroon (one dark and one light) and one shade of light blue.  When I ran out of the dark maroon 2239 (in the second to last stripe) is switched to the lighter one 1120 (you can see this better in the second image).  Then I ran out of the lighter maroon, so I bound off in the light blue 1053.  I definitely had a lot of fun knitting this shawlette.... there was never a dull moment, I was either always changing color, working the lace, or having fun with the short-row bind off.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203.jpg">\r\n</a>\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0199.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-487 alignnone" title="DSC_0199" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0199-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="503" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203.jpg"><img title="DSC_0203" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0203-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="502" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nHere is yet another version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I did not knit this one, my friend Hanna knit this for <a href="http://www.wildfiber.com">Wildfiber</a>.  I would say this is the most interesting version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> I have seen so far.  I love love love this one.  She used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-merino-light.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light</a> in Faded Chinos alternating every two rows with <a href="http://habutextiles.com/A-172">Habu Textiles A-172 Spiral Slub</a> in Wine.  Here is my other friend Jess modeling the shawl.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-466" title="DSC_0247" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0251.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-465" title="DSC_0251" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0251-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="689" height="459" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn the photo below you can see how the striping looks up close.  When she got to the lace Hanna only used the <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-merino-light.html">Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light</a>.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0247.jpg">\r\n</a>\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0237.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-467" title="DSC_0237" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0237-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="689" height="459" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnd last but not least.  This past spring I made myself a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a> Shawl.  I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/prairie.html">Madelinetish Prairie</a> in Stovepipe and made myself a full shawl version (and I still have yarn left over, that Prairie goes a long way).  To make the shawlette larger just continue to increase in the established manner until the desired length before the lace portion.  Make sure that your stitch count is a multiple of 6+1.  I also extended the lace portion of the shawl by working a few more repeats.  Here is Jess modeling the shawl version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0224.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-476" title="DSC_0224" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0224-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0228.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-469" title="DSC_0228" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0228-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="685" height="1024" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0213.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-474" title="DSC_0213" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/DSC_0213-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="703" height="469" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI hope you have enjoyed the many faces of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>.  I would love to see your version as well.  Please share your pictures on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Ravelry</a> and in my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/grace-akhrem-designs">group</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAlso don''t forget that until August 31st (Pacific Time) you can receive 30% off the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled Ascot</a> pattern on Ravelry by using the promotion code rufflyruff.  Enjoy!', 'The many faces of Crashing Waves', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '463-revision-14', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:43:10', '2011-10-03 22:43:10', '', 463, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/463-revision-14/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(625, 2, '2011-10-03 15:42:48', '2011-10-03 22:42:48', '<p style="text-align: left;">I thought my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ruffled </a><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot">Ascot</a> pattern could use a little sprucing up.  I found some yummy yarn in my stash -  I used one hank of the <a href="http://www.sanguinegryphon.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=index&amp;cPath=18_65">Sanguine Gryphon Bugga</a> (70/20/10 - merino/cashmere/nylon blend) that I picked up at Sock Summit ''09 for the body of the scarf and <a href="http://www.habutextiles.com/webfile/a-20.html">Habu Textiles Silk Stainless</a> (a personal favorite) doubled for the ruffles.  I knit the body of the scarf as the pattern directs but made modifications when I got to the ruffle.  Use the Ravelry promotion code rufflyruff to receive 30% off between now and August 31st.</p>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_377" align="alignnone" width="428" caption="2009 version of the Ruffled Ascot"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ruffled-ascot-cl.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-389" title="ruffled ascot cl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ruffled-ascot-cl.jpg" alt="" width="428" height="642" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_362" align="alignnone" width="426" caption="2011 version of the Ruffled Ascot"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0088.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-362" title="DSC_0088" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0088-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="426" height="635" /></a>[/caption]\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">The modifications are as follows:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">After removing waste yarn and placing all live sts onto needle use any fingering or lace weight yarn in a dark color (or any color that matches your ruffle yarn) knit 6 rows. Bind off all sts.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">***With the RS facing and using two strands of Habu Silk Stainless (I used Top Brown and Black) pick up and knit 41 sts from the garter ridges closest to the body of the scarf.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 1 (WS): Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 2 (RS): K1, *yo, k3; repeat from * to last st, yo, k1.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 2: Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 3: Knit.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 4: Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 5: K1, *yo, k3; repeat from * to last st, yo, k1.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Row 6: Purl.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Bind off pattern: Bind off one stitch.  *Place stitch from right hand needle back onto left hand needle.  Cast on one stitch using the knit cast on method.  Bind off 2 sts.  Repeat from * until all sts have been bound off.***</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Repeat from *** to *** for every other garter ridge in the right side of the work.  Work the same set of ruffle instructions for the other edge.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">More photos for inspiration. Enjoy!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0113.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-367" title="DSC_0113" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0113-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0100.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-365" title="DSC_0100" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0100-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0093.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-364" title="DSC_0093" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0093-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0089.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-363" title="DSC_0089" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/DSC_0089-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>', 'Ruffled Ascot Revisited', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '356-revision-30', '', '', '2011-10-03 15:42:48', '2011-10-03 22:42:48', '', 356, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/356-revision-30/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(627, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:52', '2011-10-10 18:33:52', 'Last Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0003/" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0011/" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0033/" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0034/" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0036/" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0059/" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0068/" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like <a href="http://cascadeyarns.com/cascade-eco.asp">Cascade Eco Wool</a>.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0075-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0079/" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0086/" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0087-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0096/" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0098/" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0116/" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'publish', 'open', 'open', '', 'visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair', '', '', '2011-10-10 14:54:35', '2011-10-10 21:54:35', '', 0, 'http://graceakhrem.com/?p=627', 24, 'post', '', 3),
(628, 2, '2011-10-03 16:09:26', '2011-10-03 23:09:26', 'Yesterday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\n\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmiese.... not sure which color or base though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision', '', '', '2011-10-03 16:09:26', '2011-10-03 23:09:26', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(629, 2, '2011-10-03 22:40:08', '2011-10-04 05:40:08', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\n\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmiese.... not sure which color or base though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finis', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-2', '', '', '2011-10-03 22:40:08', '2011-10-04 05:40:08', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-2/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(630, 2, '2011-10-03 22:48:42', '2011-10-04 05:48:42', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\n\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmiese.... not sure which color or base though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at VK Live I met Mary of Maendeleo African Imports.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\n\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finish it - this is definitely a dish for 3-4 people.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool.  As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person.  After the lecture I was able to talk to the', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-3', '', '', '2011-10-03 22:48:42', '2011-10-04 05:48:42', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-3/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
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INSERT INTO `kwg_posts` (`ID`, `post_author`, `post_date`, `post_date_gmt`, `post_content`, `post_title`, `post_excerpt`, `post_status`, `comment_status`, `ping_status`, `post_password`, `post_name`, `to_ping`, `pinged`, `post_modified`, `post_modified_gmt`, `post_content_filtered`, `post_parent`, `guid`, `menu_order`, `post_type`, `post_mime_type`, `comment_count`) VALUES
(653, 2, '2011-10-10 11:03:43', '2011-10-10 18:03:43', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmeise.... not sure which color or base though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\n\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for CardingRug Making demoThe Brrom Guy (sideways)"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n</dd></dl></div>\n</dd></dl></div>\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at VK Live I met Mary of Maendeleo African Imports.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finish it - this is definitely a dish for 3-4 people.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Ne', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-4', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:03:43', '2011-10-10 18:03:43', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-4/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(654, 2, '2011-10-10 11:04:35', '2011-10-10 18:04:35', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmeise.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for CardingRug Making demoThe Brrom Guy (sideways)"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n</dd></dl></div>\r\n</dd></dl></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at VK Live I met Mary of Maendeleo African Imports.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finish it - this is definitely a dish for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-5', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:04:35', '2011-10-10 18:04:35', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-5/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(655, 2, '2011-10-10 11:05:43', '2011-10-10 18:05:43', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmeise.... not sure which color or base though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\n\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for CardingRug Making demoThe Brrom Guy (sideways)"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at VK Live I met Mary of Maendeleo African Imports.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finish it - this is definitely a dish for 3-4 people.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\n\n&nbsp;\n\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-6', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:05:43', '2011-10-10 18:05:43', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-6/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(656, 2, '2011-10-10 11:14:42', '2011-10-10 18:14:42', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmeise.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for CardingRug Making demoThe Brrom Guy (sideways)"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at VK Live I met Mary of Maendeleo African Imports.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finish it - this is definitely a dish for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-7', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:14:42', '2011-10-10 18:14:42', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-7/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(657, 2, '2011-10-10 11:14:42', '2011-10-10 18:14:42', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the LA County fair.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never do.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  But there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, Klondke bars, Kool-Aid, Twinkies and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be Wollmeise.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit Girasole by Jared Flood.  The yarn looks like Handmaiden Seasilk in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a fiber retreat to Peru every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  The Dude Sweater, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no prof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after Harry Potter characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for CardingRug Making demoThe Brrom Guy (sideways)"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at VK Live I met Mary of Maendeleo African Imports.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese.  We could not finish it - this is definitely a dish for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-8', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:14:42', '2011-10-10 18:14:42', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-8/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(658, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:25', '2011-10-10 18:33:25', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-9', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:33:25', '2011-10-10 18:33:25', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-9/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(659, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:25', '2011-10-10 18:33:25', 'On Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-10', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:33:25', '2011-10-10 18:33:25', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-10/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(660, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:44', '2011-10-10 18:33:44', 'Last Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-11', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:33:44', '2011-10-10 18:33:44', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-11/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(661, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:44', '2011-10-10 18:33:44', 'Last Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-12', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:33:44', '2011-10-10 18:33:44', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-12/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(662, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:52', '2011-10-10 18:33:52', 'Last Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=632" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=634" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=636" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=637" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=651" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=638" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=639" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=640" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=641" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=642" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=643" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=647" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=648" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/?attachment_id=650" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-13', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:33:52', '2011-10-10 18:33:52', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-13/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(663, 2, '2011-10-17 16:40:01', '2011-10-17 23:40:01', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full round1 alignleft" title="Olana Shawl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="367" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'publish', 'open', 'open', '', 'olana-shawl', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:09:55', '2011-12-04 15:09:55', '', 0, 'http://graceakhrem.com/?p=663', 24, 'post', '', 0),
(664, 2, '2011-10-10 11:33:52', '2011-10-10 18:33:52', 'Last Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0003/" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0011/" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0033/" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0034/" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0036/" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0059/" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0068/" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like Cascade Eco Wool.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0075-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0079/" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0086/" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0087-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0096/" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0098/" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0116/" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. County Fair', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '627-revision-14', '', '', '2011-10-10 11:33:52', '2011-10-10 18:33:52', '', 627, 'http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/627-revision-14/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(665, 2, '2011-10-10 14:54:35', '2011-10-10 21:54:35', 'Last Sunday Rory and I made a drive out to Pomona to make it for the last day of the <a href="http://lacountyfair.com/2011/">LA County Fair</a>.  It''s one of those things that comes every year and you never find the time to go.  As an LA native I feel it''s my duty to have gone at least once.  When I told people this is my first time they were shocked, but I guess it''s kind of like those New Yorkers who have lived in NY their whole lives and have never been to the Statue of Liberty.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_632" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="LA County Fair madness"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0003/" rel="attachment wp-att-632"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-632" title="DSC_0003" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0003-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnyway I digress.  So after about an hour drive we finally arrived.  We get there and we went straight for the fried food!  It''s okay, we skipped breakfast.  I always hear about the fair food... but it was always kind of like a myth.  Not a myth, there it was, everything fried land!  - that''s what they should call it... not a "fair."  There were fried caramel apples, <a href="http://www.klondikebar.com/">Klondike bars</a>, <a href="http://www.kraftbrands.com/koolaid/">Kool-Aid</a>, <a href="http://www.hostesscakes.com/twinkies.asp">Twinkies</a> and much much more.  Rory and I went for something a little more familiar to start our day, the fried zucchini, chicken &amp; onion rings.  It was fried madness!!  I wish I got the Twinkie...\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_634" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Totally Fried!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0011/" rel="attachment wp-att-634"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-634" title="DSC_0011" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0011-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to the Tapestry Exhibit.  There were so many things to look at, next time I will spend a couple of days looking at all the great things.  Two of my favorite pieces that were knit up both got 2nd place.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe first one is a lace stole knit by Kristina Lawton from Palmdale.  I am not sure what the pattern is but I think the yarn might be <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a>.... not sure which color or base though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_636" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Hand-knit Stole/Wrap"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0033/" rel="attachment wp-att-636"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-636" title="DSC_0033" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0033-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen another 2nd place winner was Gale Rugnetta from Rancho Palos Verdes.  She knit <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/girasole">Girasole</a> by <a href="http://www.brooklyntweed.net/">Jared Flood</a>.  The yarn looks like <a href="http://handmaiden.ca/yarn.html">Handmaiden Sea Silk</a> in the Orchid colorway.  I love playing name that yarn, so much fun.  It would have been more fun if everything wasn''t behind glass and I really got to cop a feel.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_637" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Girasole"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0034/" rel="attachment wp-att-637"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-637" title="DSC_0034" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0034-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI also came across Best in Show for spinning by  Ken Klaus from Glendora.  I''m not sure what the fiber content of the yarn is but it looked like some sort of coarse wool.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_651" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Best in Show"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0036/" rel="attachment wp-att-651"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-651" title="DSC_0036" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0036-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFinally after isles and isles of knitting, crochet, spinning projects I finally got to the "Knitting Lounge."  Of course this is the time I decide to leave my knitting in the car, but no worries.  I cast on with some pink yarn and knit, knit, knit away.  I sat there with Edda - she runs the lounge.  We got to talking... turns out she organizes a <a href="http://www.eddaperu.com/index.html">Fiber Retreat to Peru</a> every year.  I think I might go next spring, sounds like fun.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_638" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Lounge"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0059/" rel="attachment wp-att-638"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-638" title="DSC_0059" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0059-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_639" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Knitting Pink"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0068/" rel="attachment wp-att-639"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-639" title="DSC_0068" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0068-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe were just about to head out and then I came across one last awesome knitting project.  <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-dude">The Dude Sweater</a>, hand knit by Karen Mc Carthy of Los Angeles.  Looked like <a href="http://cascadeyarns.com/cascade-eco.asp">Cascade Eco Wool</a>.... can''t be sure though.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_640" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Dude Sweater a pattern by Andrea Rangel"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0075-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-640"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-640" title="DSC_0075" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0075-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWe headed off to check out the rest of the fair.  We got a bit thirsty and stopped for a peach "Margarita."  Why the quotation marks you ask?  The bartender said there was tequila.... I tasted no proof of this.  Oh well, next time I''ll go for a beer.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_641" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Mallrats t-shirt, gotta love it!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0079/" rel="attachment wp-att-641"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-641" title="DSC_0079" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0079-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter a long walk we stumbled upon Heritage Square where there was the Craft Barn.  In the craft barn I met the very friendly ladies of <a href="http://thefiberranch.com/index.html">The Fiber Ranch</a> where they held a spinning demonstration.  They had a lovely selection of wool and angora roving that were all named after their sheep.  And all the sheep were named after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Harry Potter</a> characters.  How cute!!!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_642" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="The Fiber Ranch gang"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0086/" rel="attachment wp-att-642"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-642" title="DSC_0086" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0086-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOther crafts that were being demonstrated include: Wool Carding, Rug Making, and Balloon Making.\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_643" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Fiber for Carding"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0087-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-643"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-643" title="DSC_0087" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0087-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen we headed over to one of the halls to go shopping.  Yes, I had a very specific vendor in mind.  When I was at <a href="http://www.vogueknittinglive.com/shows/ny12/home">VK Live</a> I met Mary of <a href="http://maendeleoimports.com/">Maendeleo African Imports</a>.  She asked me to come visit here at the fair, so of course I did.  Here is Mary with my new knitting basket.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_647" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="My new knitting basket!!!!!!!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0096/" rel="attachment wp-att-647"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-647" title="DSC_0096" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0096-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter all of this excitement Rory and I were feeling in the mood for something fried.  Hmmm.... what should we have?  The curly fry brick!  Ha!  This thing was huge and smothered in chili and cheese, it needed two plates.  We couldn''t finish it - this is definitely a brick for 3-4 people.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_648" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Real Fair Food, mmmmmmmmmm...."]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0098/" rel="attachment wp-att-648"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-648" title="DSC_0098" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0098-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAfter the deep fried brick we headed over to Fairview Farms where we witnessed a goat milking demo.  Yeehaw!  That was fun.  Then we went to "Lily''s Sheep Emporium"  - it wasn''t exactly what I thought it would be.  I was expecting a slew of breeds to show off their fleece.  Nope.  This was a lecture on wool... As knitters I think we don''t realize how much more we know about wool than the average person, it''s pretty cool.  Here are the sheepies!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[caption id="attachment_650" align="aligncenter" width="250" caption="Baaah!"]<a href="http://graceakhrem.com/2011/10/visit-to-the-l-a-county-fair/dsc_0116/" rel="attachment wp-att-650"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-650" title="DSC_0116" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0116-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a>[/caption]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAll in all it was a pretty good Sunday.  But also very exhausting.  We planned on staying for the night concert by Earth, Wind &amp; Fire but we were too sleepy.  Next year we are definitely coming back to the fair and we will probably go several times just to make sure we see everything... and eat everything. Ha!  Can''t wait!', 'Visit to the L.A. 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(695, 2, '2011-12-06 10:51:42', '2011-12-06 18:51:42', '<p style="text-align: left;">Well, it happened.  Yes I neglected my blog, but for a good cause.  I was working closely with <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> to create a new face for my site.  Here is it!  I am very pleased!  Thank you <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a>!!!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I am always talking about the importance of blocking, I thought that today I would show you why it is so important and talk about one of the many ways of blocking.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic</a> as a trunk show piece and photographed it before and after blocking.  Here it is:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-697" title="Janna''s-Tunic-front-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-696" title="Janna''s-Tunic-back-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">It is obvious the difference that blocking makes especially with this yarn choice- I used <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a>.  The Linen yarn is more on the "crunchy" side before blocking and looks all kinky and lumpy.  After blocking the yarn smoothed out and held a beautiful drape.  Another thing that blocking helped was the detail of the stitches, on the left the pleats look lumpy mess, on the right they are beautifully formed pleats.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I decided to wet block the tunic because the <a href="http://http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Euroflax</a> needs a heavy blocking.  To block this piece I placed it in the washing machine on mini and let it fill up with water.  Then I put in some <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soak</a>- the bottle says to put in 5ml for every gallon... I just squeeze the bottle a few times (no worries- if it''s too much it just smells extra good).  Then I let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.  Do not let your machine to agitate.  Even though linen is not a fiber that will felt it will begin to fuzz (very unattractive).  After your garment has <a href="http://http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soaked</a> for a 15-20 minutes run it through the spin cycle until all the extra water has been removed.  Then I pulled out the garment and gave it a nice good air-whacking (what''s that?) <strong><em>Air -whacking</em></strong><em>:  It''s when you hold the garment by the shoulder straps and flip it over and behind your head.  Then with full force flip it back down so it hits your legs.  Do this a few times to get out all the folds from the spin cycle.</em>  Place it on a hanger and wait for it to dry.  Then depending on the outside temperature you can wear this garment in 3 hours (on a hot hot day) - 48 hours (on a damp and cold day).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">And in the spirit of happy blocking <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic pattern is 15% off on Ravelry</a> with the coupon-code: airwhacking good now through January 31st 11:59 pm PT. Block On!!!</p>', 'The Importance of Blocking!', '', 'publish', 'open', 'open', '', 'the-importance-of-blocking', '', '', '2011-12-07 10:07:38', '2011-12-07 18:07:38', '', 0, 'http://graceakhrem.com//?p=695', 24, 'post', '', 3),
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(733, 1, '2011-12-03 21:45:18', '2011-12-04 05:45:18', 'Questions? Comments? Email Me@GraceAkhrem.com', '', '', 'publish', 'open', 'open', '', '733', '', '', '2011-12-03 22:17:32', '2011-12-04 06:17:32', '', 0, 'http://graceakhrem.com//?p=733', 36, 'nav_menu_item', '', 0),
(734, 1, '2011-12-03 21:45:18', '2011-12-04 05:45:18', 'Secrets to Perfect Garment Construction (6 hours)\r\nIn this class we will discuss specific knitting techniques and where to apply them in your knitted garment. We will discuss all the many different increase and decrease options, where to use them and how to use them to create different decorative details. We will cover how to create and customize button-bands and many buttonhole and button-loop options as well as borders, edgings and hems. Most importantly, we will learn how to take a basic garment and convert the shoulder and neck shaping into short-row shaping.\r\n\r\nConverting Basic Garment Patterns to Include Short – Row Shaping (2 hours)\r\nThis class covers the basics of short-rows and the difference between traditional short-rows and Japanese short-rows. We will discuss how to convert a basic garment pattern to include short-row shaping in the shoulder and neckline. Together we will convert a basic pattern to include short-rows.\r\n\r\nCreate Your Own Basic Toe – Up Sock Pattern (4 hours)\r\nTogether we will properly take foot measurements and learn how to check gauge in the round without knitting in the round. In class we will learn the formula to create any toe-up sock for any gauge yarn and any foot measurement. In class we will knit a little mini-sock and learn the following techniques: Crochet provisional cast-on, short-row heel and toe, and elastic bind-off.\r\n\r\nGaugeless Toe – Up Socks (3 hours)\r\nIn this class we will learn how to create a basic customized sock pattern with out foot measurements or a gauge swatch. In class we will knit a little mini-sock and learn the following techniques: Magic eight cast on, short-row heel, and elastic bind-off.\r\n\r\nCustomized Log Cabin Blanket (5 hours)\r\nBreak away from the traditional log cabin blanket pattern design and create your own. In this class we will cover everything from color theory, gauge, picking up stitches (how many and where), and more. Together each student will choose their yarn for his/her blanket and create a customized design. We will discuss the importance of gauge in this class and learn how to make the student’s specific gauge work for his/her blanket pattern and design. In the last hour of the class we will discuss edging options. We will cover the four following options: Basic, Mitered St.st. & Garter, Short- row, and Mitered short-row.\r\n\r\nModifying a Garment for Your Body & Yarn Choice (3 hours)\r\nTogether we will take an existing garment pattern and learn how to customize the garment for any yarn choice in any gauge and how to create a better fit for your body.\r\n\r\nDesign Your Own Sweater (6 hours)\r\nIn this class we will learn how to recreate your favorite sweater pattern. We will cover the importance of gauge and correct measurements. Together we will write out a pattern that will recreate your favorite sweater exactly! After class you can apply this technique to any sweater you see in stores.\r\n\r\nMistakes and More Mistakes (5 hours)\r\nDropped a stitch? Forgot to cable? Don’t worry! You don’t have to rip out your work. In this class we will cover how to fix all the basic knitting mistakes we all make, such as a slipped stitch, split stitch, dropped stitch. Then once we are comfortable with the basic mistakes, we will learn how to fix a skipped cable, dropped yarn-over, offset lace patterns and more.', '', '', 'publish', 'open', 'open', '', '734', '', '', '2011-12-03 22:17:31', '2011-12-04 06:17:31', '', 0, 'http://graceakhrem.com//?p=734', 27, 'nav_menu_item', '', 0),
(736, 1, '2011-12-03 21:45:18', '2011-12-04 05:45:18', '', 'Feed', '', 'publish', 'open', 'open', '', 'feed-2', '', '', '2011-12-03 22:17:31', '2011-12-04 06:17:31', '', 0, 'http://graceakhrem.com//?p=736', 35, 'nav_menu_item', '', 0),
(746, 1, '2011-12-04 07:07:59', '2011-12-04 15:07:59', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-669" title="DSC_0174" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="513" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '663-revision-3', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:07:59', '2011-12-04 15:07:59', '', 663, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/663-revision-3/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(747, 1, '2011-12-04 07:08:01', '2011-12-04 15:08:01', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-669" title="DSC_0174" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="513" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '663-revision-4', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:08:01', '2011-12-04 15:08:01', '', 663, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/663-revision-4/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(748, 1, '2011-12-04 07:08:43', '2011-12-04 15:08:43', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-669 alignleft" title="Olana Shawl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="308" height="459" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '663-revision-5', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:08:43', '2011-12-04 15:08:43', '', 663, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/663-revision-5/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(749, 1, '2011-12-04 07:08:44', '2011-12-04 15:08:44', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full wp-image-669 alignleft" title="Olana Shawl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="308" height="459" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '663-revision', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:08:44', '2011-12-04 15:08:44', '', 663, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/663-revision/', 0, 'revision', '', 0);
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(750, 1, '2011-12-04 07:09:54', '2011-12-04 15:09:54', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full round1 alignleft" title="Olana Shawl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="367" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '663-revision-6', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:09:54', '2011-12-04 15:09:54', '', 663, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/663-revision-6/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(751, 1, '2011-12-04 07:11:00', '2011-12-04 15:11:00', '<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg"><img class="size-full round1 alignleft" title="Olana Shawl" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0174.jpg" alt="" width="246" height="367" /></a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I would like to thank everyone who submitted names to the contest.  Congratulations to Alice, better known as BlueZamia, from Minneapolis MN.  Alice suggested the winning name for the shawl contest I held about a month ago.  Her suggestion was Olana.  Want to learn more about Olana State Historic Site?  <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olana_State_Historic_Site">click here</a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;"><!--more--></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit this shawl out of three different yarns.  This is the perfect stash busting project.  For my first version I used <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/">Madelinetosh</a> <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Sock</a> as the MC, <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Rohrspatz &amp; Wollmeise</a> 100% superwash merino as CC1, and <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/index.html">Alisha Goes Around</a> <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> as CC2.</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I have never used either of these three yarns before, so how did I choose this funny little combo?  Color!  I got my hands on that awesome skein of <a href="http://www.rohrspatzundwollmeise.de/httpdocs/flash_content/rohrspatzundwollmeise.html">Wollmeise</a> in Mint.  I am I sucker for any green yarn.  I LOVE GREEN!  So I decided to make something in that color-  then I thought "this is really really bright," so I decided to tone it down a bit with the <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> in the Oyster colorway.  What a gorgeous yarn!  YUM.  The <a href="http://www.alishagoesaround.com/trofbificso.html">Tracks of Bison</a> has slipped into my list of favorite yarns.  I wish I had more of this stuff.  It would make a great cardigan.... back to today''s topic- so I had the Mint &amp; the Oyster... but it still needed a little something to break up all that green, so I searched my stash for the right color.  I finally came upon a hank of <a href="http://madelinetosh.com/store/index.php/yarns/tosh-sock.html">Madelinetosh Sock</a> in Port that I picked up at <a href="http://www.imagiknit.com/">Imagiknit</a> when I was in <a href="http://www.sanfrancisco.com/">San Francisco</a> last summer.  These three yarns and colors played together perfectly.</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knew that I didn''t want the Mint to tough the Oyster, Port was the perfect separator.  I striped the Port with the Oyster for the body and then picked up along the edge for the wow factor of the shawl.  Make sure when you choose colors for this pattern that you use two colors that are similar.  The second shawl I had made (you can see it <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">here</a>) I chose a teal blue as the MC and a tealish blue-green as the CC1.  Then the CC2 is always going to be a pop color- where I used a brownish gold and a fun little "cluster stitch" that I came up with.</p>\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-670" title="DSC_0175" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0175.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">This shawl was a lot of fun to knit. The garter stitch combined with the lace and changing the color of the yarn is just enough to keep your interest.  Then when you are thinking, "okay, that''s enough now," the pattern moves onto the border where there is all kinds of striping, lace work and other stitch details to keep your interest.  I think my favorite part to knit in this shawl was the cluster edging (knit in the Oyster colorway).  That was a fun and interesting stitch that I improvised.  I knew I wanted to do some kind of fun bind off like I have done in the past with my other patterns, some examples include: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/crashing-waves">Crashing Waves</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/brat-sister">Brat Sister</a> (named after my sister), <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/seaweed-scarf-5">Seaweed Scarf</a>, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ruffled-ascot-revisited">Ruffled Ascot Revisited</a> to name a few.</p>\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-668" title="DSC_0164" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0164.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="765" /></a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I really enjoyed knitting shawl.  I hope you enjoy making it as much as I did.  The pattern is available for PDF download for $7.00 on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/olana-shawl">Ravelry</a>.  Mention the code OlanaBlog to receive 10% off the purchase of this pattern from now until October 31st (pacific time).</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0195/" rel="attachment wp-att-672"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-672 alignnone" title="DSC_0195" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0195-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/10/olana-shawl/dsc_0184/" rel="attachment wp-att-671"><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-671" title="DSC_0184" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0184-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156.jpg"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-667" title="DSC_0156" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/DSC_0156-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /></a></p>', 'Olana Shawl', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '663-autosave', '', '', '2011-12-04 07:11:00', '2011-12-04 15:11:00', '', 663, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/663-autosave/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(753, 2, '2011-12-05 16:26:24', '2011-12-06 00:26:24', '<p style="text-align: left;">Well, it happened.  Yes I neglected my blog, but for a good cause.  I was working closely with <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> to create a new face for my site.  Here is it!  I am very pleased!  Thank you Graphic Agenda!!!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I am always talking about the importance of blocking, I thought that today I would show you why it is so important and the many ways of blocking.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic</a> as a trunk show piece and photographed it before and after blocking.  Here it is:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-697" title="Janna''s-Tunic-front-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-696" title="Janna''s-Tunic-back-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">It is obvious the difference that blocking makes especially with this yarn choice- I used <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a>.  The Linen yarn is more on the "crunchy" side before blocking and looks all kinky and lumpy.  After blocking the yarn smoothed out and held a beautiful drape.  Another thing that blocking helped was the detail of the stitches, on the left the pleats look lumpy mess, on the right they are beautifully formed pleats.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I decided to wet block the tunic because the <a href="http://http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Euroflax</a> needs a heavy blocking.  To block this piece I placed it in the washing machine on mini and let it fill up with water.  Then I put in some <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soak</a>- the bottle says to put in 5ml for every gallon... I just squeeze the bottle a few times (no worries- if it''s too much it just smells extra good).  Then I let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.  Do not let your machine to agitate.  Even though linen is not a fiber that will felt it will begin to fuzz (very unattractive).  After your garment has <a href="http://http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soaked</a> for a 15-20 minutes run it through the spin cycle until all the extra water has been removed.  Then I pulled out the garment and gave it a nice good air-whacking (what''s that?) <strong><em>Air -whacking</em></strong><em>:  It''s when you hold the garment by the shoulder straps and flip it over and behind your head.  Then with full force flip it back down so it hits your legs.  Do this a few times to get out all the folds from the spin cycle.</em>  Place it on a hanger and wait for it to dry.  Then depending on the outside temperature you can wear this garment in 3 hours (on a hot hot day) - 48 hours (on a damp and cold day).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">And in the spirit of happy blocking <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic pattern is 15% off on Ravelry</a> with the coupon-code: airwhacking good now through January 31st 11:59 pm PT. Block On!!!</p>', 'The Importance of Blocking!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '695-revision-2', '', '', '2011-12-05 16:26:24', '2011-12-06 00:26:24', '', 695, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/695-revision-2/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(754, 2, '2011-12-05 16:26:51', '2011-12-06 00:26:51', '<p style="text-align: left;">Well, it happened.  Yes I neglected my blog, but for a good cause.  I was working closely with <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> to create a new face for my site.  Here is it!  I am very pleased!  Thank you <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a>!!!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I am always talking about the importance of blocking, I thought that today I would show you why it is so important and the many ways of blocking.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic</a> as a trunk show piece and photographed it before and after blocking.  Here it is:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-697" title="Janna''s-Tunic-front-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-696" title="Janna''s-Tunic-back-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">It is obvious the difference that blocking makes especially with this yarn choice- I used <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a>.  The Linen yarn is more on the "crunchy" side before blocking and looks all kinky and lumpy.  After blocking the yarn smoothed out and held a beautiful drape.  Another thing that blocking helped was the detail of the stitches, on the left the pleats look lumpy mess, on the right they are beautifully formed pleats.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I decided to wet block the tunic because the <a href="http://http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Euroflax</a> needs a heavy blocking.  To block this piece I placed it in the washing machine on mini and let it fill up with water.  Then I put in some <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soak</a>- the bottle says to put in 5ml for every gallon... I just squeeze the bottle a few times (no worries- if it''s too much it just smells extra good).  Then I let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.  Do not let your machine to agitate.  Even though linen is not a fiber that will felt it will begin to fuzz (very unattractive).  After your garment has <a href="http://http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soaked</a> for a 15-20 minutes run it through the spin cycle until all the extra water has been removed.  Then I pulled out the garment and gave it a nice good air-whacking (what''s that?) <strong><em>Air -whacking</em></strong><em>:  It''s when you hold the garment by the shoulder straps and flip it over and behind your head.  Then with full force flip it back down so it hits your legs.  Do this a few times to get out all the folds from the spin cycle.</em>  Place it on a hanger and wait for it to dry.  Then depending on the outside temperature you can wear this garment in 3 hours (on a hot hot day) - 48 hours (on a damp and cold day).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">And in the spirit of happy blocking <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic pattern is 15% off on Ravelry</a> with the coupon-code: airwhacking good now through January 31st 11:59 pm PT. Block On!!!</p>', 'The Importance of Blocking!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '695-revision-3', '', '', '2011-12-05 16:26:51', '2011-12-06 00:26:51', '', 695, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/695-revision-3/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(755, 2, '2011-12-05 16:27:00', '2011-12-06 00:27:00', '<p style="text-align: left;">Well, it happened.  Yes I neglected my blog, but for a good cause.  I was working closely with <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> to create a new face for my site.  Here is it!  I am very pleased!  Thank you <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a>!!!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I am always talking about the importance of blocking, I thought that today I would show you why it is so important and the many ways of blocking.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic</a> as a trunk show piece and photographed it before and after blocking.  Here it is:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-697" title="Janna''s-Tunic-front-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-696" title="Janna''s-Tunic-back-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">It is obvious the difference that blocking makes especially with this yarn choice- I used <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a>.  The Linen yarn is more on the "crunchy" side before blocking and looks all kinky and lumpy.  After blocking the yarn smoothed out and held a beautiful drape.  Another thing that blocking helped was the detail of the stitches, on the left the pleats look lumpy mess, on the right they are beautifully formed pleats.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I decided to wet block the tunic because the <a href="http://http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Euroflax</a> needs a heavy blocking.  To block this piece I placed it in the washing machine on mini and let it fill up with water.  Then I put in some <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soak</a>- the bottle says to put in 5ml for every gallon... I just squeeze the bottle a few times (no worries- if it''s too much it just smells extra good).  Then I let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.  Do not let your machine to agitate.  Even though linen is not a fiber that will felt it will begin to fuzz (very unattractive).  After your garment has <a href="http://http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soaked</a> for a 15-20 minutes run it through the spin cycle until all the extra water has been removed.  Then I pulled out the garment and gave it a nice good air-whacking (what''s that?) <strong><em>Air -whacking</em></strong><em>:  It''s when you hold the garment by the shoulder straps and flip it over and behind your head.  Then with full force flip it back down so it hits your legs.  Do this a few times to get out all the folds from the spin cycle.</em>  Place it on a hanger and wait for it to dry.  Then depending on the outside temperature you can wear this garment in 3 hours (on a hot hot day) - 48 hours (on a damp and cold day).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">And in the spirit of happy blocking <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic pattern is 15% off on Ravelry</a> with the coupon-code: airwhacking good now through January 31st 11:59 pm PT. Block On!!!</p>', 'The Importance of Blocking!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '695-revision-4', '', '', '2011-12-05 16:27:00', '2011-12-06 00:27:00', '', 695, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/695-revision-4/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(756, 2, '2011-12-05 16:54:56', '2011-12-06 00:54:56', '<p style="text-align: left;">Well, it happened.  Yes I neglected my blog, but for a good cause.  I was working closely with <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> to create a new face for my site.  Here is it!  I am very pleased!  Thank you <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a>!!!</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I am always talking about the importance of blocking, I thought that today I would show you why it is so important and the many ways of blocking.</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic</a> as a trunk show piece and photographed it before and after blocking.  Here it is:</p>\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-697" title="Janna''s-Tunic-front-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a><!--more--></p>\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-696" title="Janna''s-Tunic-back-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a></p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">It is obvious the difference that blocking makes especially with this yarn choice- I used <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a>.  The Linen yarn is more on the "crunchy" side before blocking and looks all kinky and lumpy.  After blocking the yarn smoothed out and held a beautiful drape.  Another thing that blocking helped was the detail of the stitches, on the left the pleats look lumpy mess, on the right they are beautifully formed pleats.</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">I decided to wet block the tunic because the <a href="http://http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Euroflax</a> needs a heavy blocking.  To block this piece I placed it in the washing machine on mini and let it fill up with water.  Then I put in some <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soak</a>- the bottle says to put in 5ml for every gallon... I just squeeze the bottle a few times (no worries- if it''s too much it just smells extra good).  Then I let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.  Do not let your machine to agitate.  Even though linen is not a fiber that will felt it will begin to fuzz (very unattractive).  After your garment has <a href="http://http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soaked</a> for a 15-20 minutes run it through the spin cycle until all the extra water has been removed.  Then I pulled out the garment and gave it a nice good air-whacking (what''s that?) <strong><em>Air -whacking</em></strong><em>:  It''s when you hold the garment by the shoulder straps and flip it over and behind your head.  Then with full force flip it back down so it hits your legs.  Do this a few times to get out all the folds from the spin cycle.</em>  Place it on a hanger and wait for it to dry.  Then depending on the outside temperature you can wear this garment in 3 hours (on a hot hot day) - 48 hours (on a damp and cold day).</p>\n<p style="text-align: left;">And in the spirit of happy blocking <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic pattern is 15% off on Ravelry</a> with the coupon-code: airwhacking good now through January 31st 11:59 pm PT. Block On!!!</p>', 'The Importance of Blocking!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '695-revision-5', '', '', '2011-12-05 16:54:56', '2011-12-06 00:54:56', '', 695, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/695-revision-5/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(757, 2, '2011-12-06 10:51:42', '2011-12-06 18:51:42', '<p style="text-align: left;">Well, it happened.  Yes I neglected my blog, but for a good cause.  I was working closely with <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a> to create a new face for my site.  Here is it!  I am very pleased!  Thank you <a href="http://graphicagenda.com">Graphic Agenda</a>!!!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I am always talking about the importance of blocking, I thought that today I would show you why it is so important and the many ways of blocking.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I knit up the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic</a> as a trunk show piece and photographed it before and after blocking.  Here it is:</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-697" title="Janna''s-Tunic-front-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-front-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a><!--more--></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-696" title="Janna''s-Tunic-back-prepost-block" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Jannas-Tunic-back-prepost-block-500x409.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="409" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">It is obvious the difference that blocking makes especially with this yarn choice- I used <a href="http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Louet Euroflax Sport</a>.  The Linen yarn is more on the "crunchy" side before blocking and looks all kinky and lumpy.  After blocking the yarn smoothed out and held a beautiful drape.  Another thing that blocking helped was the detail of the stitches, on the left the pleats look lumpy mess, on the right they are beautifully formed pleats.</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I decided to wet block the tunic because the <a href="http://http://louet.com/yarns/euroflax_sport.shtml">Euroflax</a> needs a heavy blocking.  To block this piece I placed it in the washing machine on mini and let it fill up with water.  Then I put in some <a href="http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soak</a>- the bottle says to put in 5ml for every gallon... I just squeeze the bottle a few times (no worries- if it''s too much it just smells extra good).  Then I let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.  Do not let your machine to agitate.  Even though linen is not a fiber that will felt it will begin to fuzz (very unattractive).  After your garment has <a href="http://http://www.soakwash.com/us/get-soak?cat=3">Soaked</a> for a 15-20 minutes run it through the spin cycle until all the extra water has been removed.  Then I pulled out the garment and gave it a nice good air-whacking (what''s that?) <strong><em>Air -whacking</em></strong><em>:  It''s when you hold the garment by the shoulder straps and flip it over and behind your head.  Then with full force flip it back down so it hits your legs.  Do this a few times to get out all the folds from the spin cycle.</em>  Place it on a hanger and wait for it to dry.  Then depending on the outside temperature you can wear this garment in 3 hours (on a hot hot day) - 48 hours (on a damp and cold day).</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">And in the spirit of happy blocking <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jannas-tunic">Janna''s Tunic pattern is 15% off on Ravelry</a> with the coupon-code: airwhacking good now through January 31st 11:59 pm PT. Block On!!!</p>', 'The Importance of Blocking!', '', 'inherit', 'open', 'open', '', '695-revision-6', '', '', '2011-12-06 10:51:42', '2011-12-06 18:51:42', '', 695, 'http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/695-revision-6/', 0, 'revision', '', 0),
(758, 2, '2011-12-12 15:24:49', '2011-12-12 23:24:49', 'Yesterday was the last day of the <a href="http://www.renegadecraft.com/">Renegade Craft Fair</a> here in Los Angeles.  Last minute I decided to go because I had heard good things and I really wanted to see what it was all about.  So I got in my little peanut of a car and headed over to Chinatown, what an adventure!\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0176/" rel="attachment wp-att-760"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-760" title="DSC_0176" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0176-298x500.jpg" alt="" width="298" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\nWhen I got there I was starving, so I met up with friends Hanna, Danielle &amp; Jill and we headed for the line-up of food trucks.  Yesterday was my first time eating from a food-truck.  We went for the truck with the longest line because that meant it was the best truck, right?!  We ate from the <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/crispytruck">Crispy Waffle &amp; Frite Truck</a>.  Here is a photo of Hanna &amp; Danielle waiting in line for some fooooood!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center;"><dl id="attachment_783" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 221px;"><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0171/" rel="attachment wp-att-783"><img class="size-medium wp-image-783" title="DSC_0171" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0171-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="211" height="316" /></a></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd">Hanna &amp; Danielle</dd></dl></div>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">I ended up getting the "Tripple B" - Bacon, Brie &amp; Basil waffle with the medium fires with Lemon &amp; Dill Aioli.  Carbs on carbs on fat on fat.  It was AMAZING!  And there was a surprise, the waffle had maple syrup under all the toppings.  I love food trucks!  Here is a close-up of my breakfast for the day.  Hungry yet???</p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center;"><dl id="attachment_782" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 301px;"><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0173/" rel="attachment wp-att-782"><img class="size-medium wp-image-782" title="DSC_0173" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0173-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="291" height="436" /></a></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd">The "Tripple B"</dd></dl></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center;"><dl id="attachment_762" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 316px;"><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0172/" rel="attachment wp-att-762"><img class="size-medium wp-image-762" title="DSC_0172" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0172-447x500.jpg" alt="" width="306" height="344" /></a></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd">Frite with Lemon Dill Aioli - yummy!</dd></dl></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOur bellies were full of a good hearty and healthy (lol) breakfast/lunch and we were ready to make our way through the aisles of the <a href="http://www.renegadecraft.com/">Renegade Craft Fair</a>.  We didn''t have to walk very far to find some really cool things.  I found the awesome vendor <a href="http://littlebirdsclothing.com">LittleBirds</a>.  She specializes in small bags and pouches.... hmmm.... kinda like knitting or crochet project bags and accessory pouches.  Of course I showed no restraint and bought two pouches.  One mini and one larger, one for my dpns and one for small crap like stitch markers.  You can find more of her lovely pouches and "project bags" on her <a href="http://littlebirdswire.etsy.com">etsy</a> site.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center;"><dl id="attachment_794" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 344px;"><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0185-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-794"><img class="size-medium wp-image-794" title="DSC_0185" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_01851-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd">Littlebirds products</dd></dl></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0187/" rel="attachment wp-att-766"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-766" title="DSC_0187" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0187-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nNext I stumbled upon a local fiber artist, Miryha Runnerstorm of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/blarneyyarn">Blarney Yarn</a>.  She had a wonderful selection of beautiful hand-dyed roving.  My favorite was the Polwarth.  I had never seen Polwarth before, I only read about it in <a href="http://www.knittersreview.com/clarabooks/knitters_book_of_wool.asp">The Book of Wool</a> by Clara Parkes of <a href="http://www.knittersreview.com/">Knitter''s Review</a>.  Polwarth reminds me a lot of merino, but it has a bit more of the lanolin feel (which I love) and a little bit of a sheen - not as much as Bluefaced Leicester, but more subtle.  I purchased two bundles of this roving, one in the colorway "Evergreen" and the other in "Autumn II".  I''m not sure when I will have time time to spin this yummy Polwarth into yarn. Maybe when I retire I''ll have more time.  To find more products by Blarney Yarn visit her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/blarneyyarn">Etsy</a> site.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0189/" rel="attachment wp-att-767"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-767" title="DSC_0189" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0189-462x500.jpg" alt="" width="462" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nI had made it about half way through the fair when I came across a really fun booth.  The booth belonged to fellow designer/blogger Leah Coccari-Swift of <a href="http://rubysubmarine.blogspot.com/">Ruby Submarine</a>.  Leah had a really great and fun selection of crochet sea creatures, including squid, starfish &amp; octopuses (yes octopuses, I looked it up).  They were bright and colorful and make great gifts.  Here is a photo of Leah in action and some of her pieces for sale.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0191/" rel="attachment wp-att-768"><img class="aligncenter" title="DSC_0191" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0191-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="225" /></a>  <a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0192/" rel="attachment wp-att-769"><img class="aligncenter" title="DSC_0192" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0192-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="226" height="226" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0196/" rel="attachment wp-att-770"><img class="size-thumbnail wp-image-770 aligncenter" title="DSC_0196" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0196-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="225" /></a></p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThen a couple of booths over was the vendor <a href="http://cookieandthedude.com/">Cookie and the Dude</a>. I think that''s a very cute name, I wish I knew the story behind it.  I did not get a chance to meet the owner (I think she was getting lunch- maybe the Waffle truck) but I still got a few of her products.  She had these adorable fabric covered buttons that she turned into little hair pins and earrings.  I got two sets of hair pins and Danielle got a pair of earrings.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0199-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-772"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-772" title="DSC_0199" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0199-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="175" height="175" /></a>    <a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0198/" rel="attachment wp-att-771"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-771" title="DSC_0198" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0198-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="175" height="175" /></a>    <a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0177/" rel="attachment wp-att-777"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-777" title="DSC_0177" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0177-250x250.jpg" alt="" width="175" height="175" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThere were a few more vendors that I passed by that are definitely worth mentioning.  Rachel Pepper of <a href="http://www.kingflydesign.com/">Kingfly</a> handbags &amp; accessories.  I really fell in love with her handbags.  You can see their unique design and fun colors on her <a href="http://www.kingflydesign.com/">site</a>.\r\n\r\n<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/theBocketStore?ref=pr_shop_more">The Bocket Store</a> was another really great vendor.  Unfortunately I forgot to take a photo of the great bowl I bought (maybe on part II I''ll show you).  Sarah has a very unique product, she takes discarded wooden objects and rehabilitates them by paining teeny tiny dots on them with a very fine paintbrush. I imagine this takes a tremendous amount of patience and love for the work.  Please make sure you visit Sarah''s <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/theBocketStore">Etsy</a> store to see what she is all about.\r\n\r\nOne of Hanna''s favorite vendors was <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/YellowWallpaper">Yellow Wallpaper Handmade</a>.  It is a one woman handbag factory.  Every piece that she makes is made to order. Here is a picture of Hanna with her brand new bag, Nom Nom!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0178/" rel="attachment wp-att-778"><img class="size-medium wp-image-778 aligncenter" title="DSC_0178" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0178-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="334" height="500" /></a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nAnother designer &amp; vendor that was definitely worth mentioning, <a href="http://www.jfishdesigns.com">JFish Designs</a>.  Wow!  I love ceramics - I but I was never too good at it, which is why I stick to my needles &amp; yarn.  Jennifer Fisher''s pieces have a very modern yet adorable look.  They are very simple but very fun.  I fell in love with these little eggs.... I photographed them with a small safety pin so that you can get an idea of how tiny and adorable these little guys are.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center;"><dl id="attachment_775" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 410px;"><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0206/" rel="attachment wp-att-775"><img class="size-medium wp-image-775" title="DSC_0206" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0206-500x334.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="267" /></a></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd">Yellow &amp; grey, my two favorite colors together!</dd></dl></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">Danielle fell in love with this little tiny potted succulent and I don''t blame her.  Now I wish I bought one for myself.  Boohoo! I am thinking about all the places where I can hang a tiny plant.  I think I might need like three of these cute little things.  Please make sure you check out Jennifer Fisher''s <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jfishdesigns?ref=top_trail">Etsy</a> shop she has many really great products with functionality!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0202/" rel="attachment wp-att-773"> <img class="size-medium wp-image-773 alignnone" title="DSC_0202" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0202-405x500.jpg" alt="" width="292" height="360" /></a>       <a href="http://graceakhrem.com//2011/12/the-renegade-craft-fair-comes-to-la-part-i-of-ii/dsc_0203-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-776"><img class="size-medium wp-image-776 alignnone" title="DSC_0203" src="http://graceakhrem.com/wpdev/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DSC_0203-334x500.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="360" /></a></p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">All in all I am really glad I got my butt out of bed for this event.  I found some really great local vendors and got lots of really great stuff!  Plus I got to eat from a food truck for the first time, woohoo and yum!  I can''t wait for this craft fair to come back to LA... maybe I''ll go to San Francisco next week so I can experience the fair all over again.  Haha!</p>\r\n<p style="text-align: left;">There is still one more vendor that I didn''t mention in this blog post.  I love her concept so much that I thought she deserves her own post.  I don''t want to mention too much about this vendor (because I want it to be a surprise) but I won''t be able to blog about it for a while.  It''s kind of like a custom order thing.... but not really.... hard to explain.  You will just have to keep checking in to find out.  Eeek.... 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