Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Yarn Along




Is it starting to feel like fall where you are? No? Not even a little bit?

Maybe it is just wishful thinking on my part. As I type this, the thermometer reads that it is a cooler temperature outside as it is inside: 65F. Fall MUST be on its way. 

I've cast on a new project AND I'm actually taking time to work on it. What a concept. I have given myself the deadline of my birthday - October 3 - to get it done so I can wear it when we go on my birthday adventure. I also snagged a Dottie Angel Frock pattern this past week that I am beyond excited about. I have had three yards of fabric set aside for a "play dress" for over two years. It just sort of came together that the frock fabric matches my stash yarn - happy birthday to me!

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On the reading front, Julian has been devouring Dorothy Sayers' Lord Peter Wimsey books. In the past month he has made it through six of them. They've got the best characters and lots of wit, but I struggle to read them because there is so much colloquial conversation. I'd like to get them on audio and catch up with him soon. 

I am currently reading Summer World by Bernd Heinrich. It is completely fascinating to me and I have no idea why. Well, I know why - it is a nature book written by a naturalist. But it is also a science book written by a scientist. I am a third of the way through the book and there are parts of it that make me want to slam it shut and shudder (learning about mud dauber wasps paralyzing their prey before caching them in their mud nests and laying parasitic eggs in them) and other parts that keep me spell bound (his observations regarding the leafing out of the trees in spring). The book is written with an easy tone, as sort of "you wouldn't believe what I found on my morning walk" but with such scientific detail that I am learning so much. 

Last but not least, if you're looking for a new book - you should read this essay and then read some Noel Perrin.

What are you working on? Show and tell with Ginny and the others. 

8 comments:

  1. Your comment to my post made me laugh Amanda, thank you for the laugh.:)
    I love your new project and the I wish we lived closer, I have the Dottie Angel Frock pattern, but since sewing isn't a skill I am good at I have held off starting. I am looking forward to seeing yours.
    Summer World sounds like a book I would enjoy, thank you.

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    1. Tracey - I DO wsh we lived closer, we would certainly tag-team these frocks. :) Have you picked your fabric? I've never really used a lot of bias tape, so that will be the new skill learned for me. Otherwise, it seems a really simple pattern.

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    2. I have a basket full that I keep switching out, I was leaning more toward bright colors, but with cooler weather coming [my fingers are crossed] I am now thinking more deep colors. I hope it's simple, it took me all day to sew mitered cloth napkins ;)

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  2. The end of the summer is definitely closing...Autumn is near. Love the beautiful colour of the yarn.

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  3. Oh kind Amanda - my essay! :)

    Too funny about Julian gorging on the Wimsey books. Which has he read? Which does he like? What do you think of Clouds of Witness? You know, back when I first read all the books, ten (or more) years ago, that wasn't a particular favorite. But this time around, I know the family and all the relationships much better, and I really enjoyed it. You know, I think you might like the Jill Patton Walsh Wimsey/Vane novels better than the Sayers originals . . .

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    1. He is reading them in order and has made it up to Five Red Herrings. He is struggling with the Scottish accent and feeling like he is "translating" as he goes. Checking out your recommendation, and did you know "cozy mystery" is a genre? Who knew?

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    2. Totally makes sense for cozy mystery to be a genre! Love that. I never liked Five Red Herrings much. It's too technical, and short on the personal details I love. I skipped it this time around. Also, Have His Carcase is hard for me to get through.

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  4. gorgeous color and I KNOW you can finish that by your birthday :) I'm off to read the essay!

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