Finishing and Beginning

It has been both a good knitting and reading week. I finished my very squishy, cozy sweater on Saturday morning. The weather was cool, so I immediately donned it without waiting for blocking. Slightly oversized and boxy it fits great and feels so comfortable. The pattern was Bedford, and I will take some photos to share this week if we dip back down into cooler temperatures. For now here is a mirror self portrait in bad light.

The sleeve are knit in reverse stockinette. I had planned to do them in the round inside out, but I over thought it and ended up knitting them right side out. I must say that after purling two sleeves in the round, I am a much faster purler. Lots of practice, I guess. The sleeves are a little long which is perfect for cold days. I used just shy of 10 balls of Rowan Purelife Organic wool. I still love this yarn and am sad it has been discontinued. It is quite soft.

After finishing the sweater I immediately cast on for a baby gift. My youngest brother and his wife are expecting their third little girl any day now. I am behind the game as far as gift giving goes, but hope she holds on a bit longer. Of course, my sister in law is not loving that idea. I am knitting with a gorgeous blue cotton yarn which should work for baby and mom.

My reading success includes finishing My Name Is Mary Sutter. It was the May pick for my book group at home. The main character is a midwife during the time of the Civil War. She yearns to become a doctor/surgeon, and the book chronicles her life and challenges. It was especially timely since many of the sites mentioned are in our area - Arlington, Alexandria, Long Bridge. Like most historical fiction, I am drawn to learn more about the period of time.

I am also referring a lot to Naturally Fun Parties for Kids; Creating Handmade, Earth-Friendly Celebrations for All Seasons and Occasions. I was given this book by the publisher to take a look at and review. I was eager to get it, since I really like Ice Pop Joy also by Anni Daulter. I will be reviewing it in full later this week, so stay tuned.

What have you been up to this week with your knitting and reading. As always I am reading and knitting along with Ginny on this Wednesday.