midorin

Well, unfortunately it looks like I'm starting out the new year with a cold. It hasn't gotten past my throat yet, but my body isn't liking it at all. So while I was cooped up inside yesterday, I started a new project, the fitted aran jacket from Debbie Bliss' Alpaca Silk two. I originally thought it was a DK weight project like the rest of the book but it turns out not to be, so I'm using some 1824 wool in a taupe color for it, hope it turns out ok. I really wish she would just give you charts along with the written instructions as the pattern panels are not of the same number of row repeats. Anyway, I'm going to try to finish this one before the weather gets warm again, which here in CT is going to take a while.
I was also thinking about resolutions for 2006, I was pretty successful last year so am highly motivated to think up some new ones. In terms of knitting, I think I'd like to:

1. Learn how to spin, well
I'd been toying with the idea of getting a wheel and tried out a fair number over the last month or so. After much agony over whether I had enough money to afford one or not, I finally ordered a Majacraft Little Gem II last week! It should be coming around this Thursday or Friday and I've been practising on my drop spindle with my handy "Hands if Spinning" book, as well as a friend's Kiwi.

2. Learn to do two+ color knitting
Norske Strikkedesign really inspired me, so I went and ordered a mitten pattern and yarn from Knitpicks this last week. I'm not sure if mittens are the right difficulty to start at but if it's too hard I have a couple of other ideas.

3. Stop buying too much yarn
I think I have enough yarn to keep me knitting at my current rate for 5+ years (shame)! Hopefully with the spinning wheel coming and various stressful issues getting under control (yup, I relieve my stress via retail therapy), I won't be as bad this year.

Anyway, I've got my fingers crossed and trusty circs in hand, welcome 2006!