Recorded Friday, November 1, 2024 Book talk begins at 19:20   Our 2024 Fall Sweater KAL is continuing.  You have until January 15, 2025 to complete an adult sweater and post a photo in our FOs thread.  It must have some type of sleeves - short sleeves are fine!  Check out our bundles of patterns for inspiration and join the discussion on our Sweater KAL Chatter thread!   Our Zoom group is continuing.  Please join us on Saturdays, 12 noon Pacific time.  All the info you need is in our Ravelry group!   EVENTS We will be at the New Years Fiber Retreat at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA in January. Dates for NoCKRs will be April 10-13, 2025, and invitations will go out by Thanksgiving!    KNITTING Tracie finished: Rialto Baby Hat by Haley Waxberg in Universal Uptown DK in Aqua and Lavender Just Float by Stephanie Lotven (TellyBean Knits) in Apple Fiber Studio Sparkling Cider in Malachite and Life in the Long Grass Silk/Merino Sock in Autumn   Tracie continues to work on: Davis #5 by Pam Allen in Western Sky Knits Merino 17 Worsted- Nightfall colony Scraps Chaps by Barbara Prime #6 -“Chihuahua” in Encore Worsted …a hint of summer by Isabel Kraemer in Fyberspates Scrumptious Lace in Jen S. Green and JuniperMon Fibers Findley in Curacao Socks for Ryan in Marinated Yarns Practicality 75/25 in Melted Box of Crayons colorway   Barb is still working on: Yume by Isabel Kraemer, using Indigodragonfly R.O.U. Sport in the Is She all Green and Fuzzy and Mossy colorway   Barb has cast-on: Granito by Joji Locatelli, using Serendipidye Dyeworks 24 Carrot Fingering MCN in the Peppermint Julip colorway Two by Two beanie by Anne Gagnon using a mystery worsted yarn in a Heather gray colorway The Market Bag by Davina Choy, using a DK white cotton pima and a DK blue cotton pima   Barb has frogged:  Thundertwist hat by Knitting Daddy (Greg Cohoon) using a mystery worsted yarn in a Heather gray colorway Fibonacci Love by Hinterm Stein - wrong yarn for the pattern     BOOKS Tracie read: The Monk (DS Cross #5) by Tim Sullivan - 4 stars A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan - 3.5 stars Re-Read the last two Cormoran Strike books - The Ink Black Heart  and The Running Grave.  Liked The Ink Black Heart better this time!  5 stars for both.  Can’t wait for #8, The Hallmarked Man. Sunny Days: The Children’s Television Revolution That Changed America by David Kamp - 4 stars   BOOKS Who Could Ever Love You by Mary L. Trump - 4 stars Mystery of L’Inconnu by Dan Grylles - 3 stars   Barb recommends Anatomy of Lies, a true crime limited series on Peacock

Recorded Sunday, October 6, 2024 Book talk begins at 32:20   Our 2024 Fall Sweater KAL is continuing.  You have until January 15, 2025 to complete an adult sweater.  It must have some type of sleeves - short sleeves are fine!   Our Zoom group is continuing.  Please join us on Saturdays, 12 noon Pacific time.  All the info you need is the Info in our Ravelry group!   KNITTING   Tracie has finished: 42-6 Dream in Blue Cardigan by DROPS Design in Universal Uptown DK, mint green and lavender Karina Headband #2 by mariana Mel  (no need to Panic Sweater by Casapinka in JodyLong Summer Delight in the Tomato colorway Fiddly Bits Cowl #11 by Jana Photo in fingering scraps Never Not Gnoming 28 and 29 by Sarah Schira in fingering scraps   Barb has finished: Peony Top by Minimi Knit Design using Berroco Remix Light in the Peony colorway   Tracie has cast on: Davis #5 by Pam Allen in Western Sky Knits Merino 17 Worsted- Nightfall colony Scraps Chaps by Barbara Prime #6 -“Chihuahua” in Encore Worsted …a hint of summer by Isabel Kraemer in Fyberspates Scrumptious Lace in Jen S. Green and JuniperMon Fibers Findley in Curacao Socks for Ryan in Marinated Yarns - Melted Box of Crayons colorway Rialto Baby Hat by Haley Waxberg in Universal Upton DK in Aqua and Lavender   Tracie is working on: Just Float by Stephanie Lotven (TellyBean Knits) in A;;le Fibeer Studio Sparkling Cider in Malachite and Life in the Long Grass Silk/Merino Sock in the Autumn colorway   Barb has cast on: Thundertwist #2 by Knitting Daddy using mystery yarn   Barb is still working on: Yume by Isabel Kraemer using Indigo Dragonfly Sport ROU in the Is She All Green and Fuzzy and Mossy color-way   BOOKS Tracie has finished: The Book of Essie by Meghan McLean Weir - 3.5 stars No One is Perfect: The True Story of Candace Mossler and American’s Strangest Murder Trial by Ron Smith - 4 stars Practice to Deceive by Ann Rule - 3 stars Swimming with Ghosts by Michelle Brafman - 4stars The Lost Girls of Penzance by Sally Rigby - 3 stars Wilder Intentions: Love, Lies and Murder in North Dakota by CJ Wynn - 4 stars Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great and Then Again Maybe I Won’t - both by Judy Blume - enjoyed both   Barb has finished: 1.  The Measure by Nikki Erlich - 4 stars  2.  Eruption by Michael Crichton and James Patterson - 4 stars 3.  Death Cruise by Don Davis - 3.5 stars

Recorded Thursday, September 12, 2024 Book talk begins at 30:30   Our annual Mother Bear KAL has ended, and we will announce the prize winners at the end of this episode.  Our Fall Sweater KAL is starting!  You have until January 15 to finish an adult-sized sweater with some kind of sleeves.  WIPs less than 50% complete are fine.  Come join our sweater discussion thread, and check out our pattern bundles. Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   Tracie is teaching a class on making knitted toys at Rumpelstiltskin in Sacramento, and it has been rescheduled to September 28 and November 2.  See the class listing here for details!   Events - We will be at Lambtown at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, California on Saturday, October 5.   KNITTING Barb finished: Mother Bears #299 - 301 Water is Life hat by Lavanya Patricella, using Mary Maxim worsted Bankhead hat #31 by Susie Gorley Spinwheel Beanie by Benjamin Matthews using 2 colors of Plymouth Encore   Tracie finished: Mother Bears 331 and 332 Digital Citizens stuffed toys Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Sea Change Fibers by The Dye Project Bayshore Fingering in Pink Frock Scraps Chaps Cat #2 by Barbara Prime in Malabrigo Rios in  Tubey by Woolly Wormhead in Red Heart for Addie Doodie by Woolly Wormhead in Lion Brand Mandala Ombre for Harrison Karina Headband by marianna mel in blue and yellow for Ellie   Barb is still working on: Peony Top by Minimi Knit Design in Berroco Remix Light in Peony   And has cast on: Ribbed Beanie #4 by Vanessa Ewing using Western Sky Knits Biggie Yume by Isabel Kraemer, using Indigo Dragonfly Sport ROU in the Is She all Green and Fuzzy and Mossy colorway     Tracie has cast on: 42-6 Dream in Blue Cardigan #3 by DROPS design in Universal Uptown DK mint green and lavender (no need to) Panic Sweater by Casapinka in Jody Long Summer Delight in the Tomato colorway   And continues to work on: Just Float by Stephanie Lotven (TellyBean Knits) in Apple Fiber Studio Sparkling Cider in Malachite and Life in the Long Grass Silk/Merino Sock in Autumn Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota   BOOKS Barb read: When the Night Comes Falling: a Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders by Howard Blum - 5 stars The Good Wife: The Shocking Betrayal and Brutal Murder of a Godly Woman in Texas - 4 stars None of This is True by Lisa Jewell - 5 stars   Tracie read: Things Aren’t Right: The Disappearance of the Yuba County Five by Tony Wright - 4 stars.  Not well written and gets into the weeds, but so interesting Holly by Stephen King - 4.5 stars Shiner by Amy Jo Burns - 3.5 stars Toxic Rage: A Tale of Murder in Tucson by AJ Flick - 3.5 stars   Barb recommends the podcast The Idaho Massacre    Tracie recommends the following shows to stream: Homicide: Life on the Street on Peacock Blue Lights on Britbox Dublin Murders on Starz  Troppo on Prime Video

Friday, August 16, 2024 Book talk starts at 10:10 Studio 49 Retreat - October 18-20, 2024 at Tuolomne Trails outside Groveland, CA.  Enrollment is still open! This episode is NOT brought to you by Alaska Airlines, but we are all big fans. Knitting  Eileen is working on the Habitation Throw by Helen Stewart in scrap yarn and is getting back into her Zephyr Mark II by Celia McAdam Cahill in Quince & Co. Chickadee Shelley is working on the Misurina tee by Caitlin Hunter in two different silk yarns Susan is working on a Luminos Tee from a kit from Yarn Snob for her niece  Barb finished her Gardengate by Jennifer Steingass and is working on a  Mother Bear, a new tee, and a hat Tracie finished turtles needlepoint project after 15 years!  She continues to slog through her Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Sea Change Fibers by The Dye Project Bayshore Fingering in Pink Frock Books Barb read Internal Combustion: The True Story of a Marriage and a Murder by Joyce Maynard Eileen is reading Alfie and Me: What Owls Know, What Humans Believe by Carl Safina and Broken Harbor by Tana French, and catching up on some favorite series by Jacqueline Winspear, Dana Stabenow, CJ Box and Tony Hillerman Tracie read Darling Rose Gold by Stephanie Wrobel - 4 stars Shelley is looking forward to reading Becoming Little Shell: A Landless Indian’s Journey Home by Chris La Tray Susan recommends Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide by Rupert Holmes

Recorded July 22, 2024 Book talk begins at 30:19 Our annual Mother Bear KAL has begun and will run until August 31.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to the Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread.  Any bears you have knit in 2024 are eligible!   Every Saturday at noon Pacific time - Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom Tracie is teaching a class on making knitted toys at Rumpelstiltskin in Sacramento, and it has been rescheduled to September 28 and November 2 .  See the class listing here for details!   KNITTING Barb finished: Mother Bear #296 - 298   Tracie finished: Mother Bears 328, 329 and one that I sent to my uncle Davis #4 by Pam Allen in Knit Picks Snuggle Puff in Hatchling (pale mint green) Scraps Chaps by Barbara Prime: Rabbit in Sea Change Fibers by The Dye Project Ecola Worsted in Mushroom Hunter Cat in Plymouth Yarn Worsted Merino Superwash Solids in Caraway Heather   Barb continues to work on: Gardengate by Jennifer Steingass, using Cloudborn Merino Superwash Sock Twist in the Graphite Heather colorway and Cloudborn Fibers Highland Fingering in the Petal colorway   And has cast on: Mother Bear #299 Spinwheel Beanie by Benjamin Matthews, using a mystery gray yarn   Tracie cast on: 42-6 Dream in Blue Cardigan by DROPS design in Universal Uptown DK in Baby Blue and Paintbox Yarns Simply DK in Banana Cream Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Sea Change Fibers by The Dye Project Bayshore Fingering in Pink Frock   And continues to work on: Just Float by Stephanie Lotven (TellyBean Knits) in Apple Fiber Studio Sparkling Cider in Malachite and Life in the Long Grass Silk/Merino Sock in Autumn Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota Digital Citizens stuffed toys   BOOKS Barb read: Cook County ICU: 30 Years of Unforgettable Patients and Odd Cases - 3 stars.   Written in 2016 - he headed the ICU 1970s thru the 1990s Bitter Blood: a True Story of Southern Family Pride, Madness, and Multiple Murder by Jerry Bledsoe - 5 stars.  Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach - 4 stars In Cold Blood by Truman Capote - 5 stars   Tracie read: Inside Out by Demi Moore - 4.5 stars Before He Wakes by Jerry Bledsoe - 4.5 stars The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles - 3 stars Blind Rage: A True Story of Sin, Sex, and Murder in a Small Arkansas Town by Anita Paddock - 2.5 stars

Recorded Wednesday, June 26, 2024 Book talk begins at 18:28 Our annual Mother Bear KAL has begun and will run until August 31.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread.  Any bears you have knit in 2024 are eligible - post photos on the FO Thread Every Saturday at noon Pacific time - Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom Tracie is teaching a class on making knitted toys at Rumpelstiltskin in Sacramento on July 13 and August 3.  See the class listing here for details!   KNITTING Barb finished: Mother Bear #295 Stashbusting Helix Hat #10 by Jessica Rose    Tracie finished: Mother Bear 325 - 327 Staycation pullover by Susanne Sommer, using Zealana Performa KIWI fingering in the Rococo colorway   Barb is working on: Gardengate by Jennifer Steingass, using Cloudborn Merino Superwash Sock Twist in the Graphite Heather colorway and Cloudborn Fibers Highland Fingering in the Petal colorway   Barb has cast On: Mother Bear #296 Tracie has cast on: Just Float by Stephanie Lotven (TellyBean Knits) in Apple Fiber Studio Sparkling Cider in Malachite and Life in the Long Grass Silk/Merino Sock in Autumn Davis by Pam Allen, using Knit Picks Snuggle Puff in the Hatchling colorway   She continues to work on: toys - Scraps Chaps for class and Digital Citizens  Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota   BOOKS Barb read: Things I Learned from Falling by Claire Nelson - 4 stars Alien by Alan Dean Foster - 4.5 stars Aliens by Alan Dean Foster - 4.5 stars Stranded by Sarah Goodwin - 4 stars   Tracie read: Virgins by Carol Rivers - 4 stars.  Tracie does not recommend the audio version The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid - 4-5 stars Smoke Screen (Alexander Blix & Emma Ramm #2) - 3.75 stars    

Recorded Wednesday, June 12, 2024 Book talk begins at 16:04   Our Summer Top KAL is has ended.  Thank you so much to everyone who participated, and please listen to the end of the episode to hear our list of prize-winners.   Our annual Mother Bear KAL has begun and will run until August 31. To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread.  Any bears you have knit in 2024 are eligible. Every Saturday at noon Pacific time - Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom Tracie is teaching a class on making knitted toys at Rumpelstiltskin in Sacramento on July 13 and August 3.  See the class listing here for details!   KNITTING Barb finished: Mother Bear #294 Bankhead hat #30   Tracie finished: Mother Bear 324 Elisenberg Jacket by Guri Pedersen in Paintbox Yarns Simply DK in Spearmint Green and Blush Pink   Barb is working on: Gardengate by Jennifer Steingass, using Cloudborn Merino Superwash Sock Twist in the Graphite Heather colorway and Cloudborn Fibers Highland Fingering in the Petal colorway   Barb has cast On: Mother Bear #295 Stashbusting Helix Hat by Jessica Rose #10   Tracie is casting on: Just Float by Stephanie Lotven (TellyBean Knits) in Apple Fiber Studio Sparkling Cider in Malachite and Life in the Long Grass Silk/Merino Sock in Autumn   She continues to work on: Staycation pullover by Susanne Sommer, using Zealana Performa KIWI fingering in the Rococo colorway Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota toys - Scraps Chaps for class and Digital Citizens    BOOKS Barb read: Woman 99 by Greer Macallister - 4 stars American Girl by Wendy Walker - 3.5 stars Any Other Family by Eleanor Brown - 3.5 stars Oh, William! by Elizabeth Strout - 4 stars   Tracie read: Death on Ocean Boulevard: Inside the Coronado Mansion Case by Caitlin Rother - 3.5 stars Last Night at the Viper Room: River Phoenix and the Hollywood He Left Behind by Gavin Edwards - 3.5 stars   Tracie recommends watching River Phoenix in:  Running on Empty (1988) - available to rent on YouTube and Prime Video Dogfight (1990) - available to rent on YouTube and Prime Video

Listen Recorded on May 28, 2024 Book talk begins at 22:55 ANNOUNCEMENTS and NEWS: Our Summer Tops KAL is almost over, going until to June 1, 2024.  Prizes winners will be announced in Episode 288! Our next KAL will be our annual Mother Bear KAL.   DATES:  6/1/24 - 8/31/24 To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread.   Tracie and Barb had a discussion about the excellent YouTube video that Susan B. Anderson made showing how she embroiders faces on toys: " />  Every Saturday at noon Pacific time - Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   EVENTS Tracie will be at: Treadles to Threads Spinning Guild's Fiber Frolic - June 1 at the Soul Food Farm outside Vacaville, CA   KNITTING Barb Finished: Mother Bears # 292 & #293 Bankhead Hats #28 & #29 Tracie finished: Mother Bears #321 - 323 Dream in Blue Cardigan by Drops Design in pink and mint acrylic scraps Elorie by Elizabeth Doherty, using Berroco ReMix in the Artichoke colorway  Barb is working on: Gardengate by Jennifer Steingass, using Cloudborn Merino Superwash Sock Twist in the Graphite Heather colorway and Cloudborn Fibers Highland Fingering in the Petal colorway Barb has cast On: Bankhead hat #30 by Susie Gourlay using Knit Picks City Tweed HW in the Marsh Colorway Tracie continues to work on: Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota Tracie has cast on: Staycation pullover by Susanne Sommer, using Zealana Performa KIWI fingering in the Rococo colorway Eisinberg Jacket by Guri Pederson in Paintbox Yarns Simply DK in the Spearmint Green and Blush Pink color ways BOOKS Barb read: The Rip by Holly Craig - 3 stars The Light of Farallon Island by Jen Wheeler - 4 stars   Tracie read: The Harbor by Katrine Engberg - 3.5 stars Shanghai Girls by Lisa See - 4.5 stars The Vanishing Class of 3B by Jackie Kabler - 3.5 stars Saint Maybe by Anne Tyler - 5 stars   Tracie recommends these two videos about what organizing is NOT: Jordan Theresa: The Cult of Organisation & The Celebrity Kitchen Complex Hannah Alonzo: The unhinged consumerism of “restock” influencers, so unrealistic!    

Recorded May 9, 2024 Our Summer Tops KAL has begun and goes until to June 1, 2024.  To enter your  top in our prize thread, it must be an adult-sized top that you consider to be appropriate for use in the summer, and we will leave the parameters of that to you!  Come chat with us about summer tops on our KAL thread, and check out our Summer Tops bundle for pattern ideas! Every Saturday at noon Pacific time - Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Treadles to Threads Spinning Guild's Fiber Frolic - June 1 at the Soul Food Farm outside Vacaville, CA   KNITTING Barb Finished: 2 Knockers Rock It Tee #2 by Tanis Lavalee, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain, in the colors Clarity, Rouge, and U Blue Mother Bear #291   Tracie finished: Knitted Knockers - 10 f0r 2024 3 Mother Bears Posie Doll by Manon Lemaire in worsted weight from stash Scraps Chaps Pig by Barbara Prime in Plymouth Encore in Peach Rachel #3 by Josée Paquin in white Juniper Moon Farms Zooey and other assorted bits of cotton/linen/silk   Barb working on: Knitted Knockers Pinnacles Hat by Nancy Bates, from the Knitting the National Parks by Nancy Bates, using a kit   Barb has frogged:   Tresoro Cardigan by Isabel Kraemer, using Knit Picks Hawthorne in the Bare colorway   Barb has cast On: Gardengate by Jennifer Steingass, using Cloudborn Merino Superwash Sock Twist in the Graphite Heather colorway and Cloudborn Fibers Highland Fingering in the Petal colorway Bankhead hat #28 by Susie Gourley Tracie continues to work on: Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota Elorie by Elizabeth Doherty in Berroco Remix in Artichoke     BOOKS Barb read: The Last Dive: A Father and Son’s Fatal Descent into the Ocean’s Depths by Bernie Chowdury - 5 stars Red Zone: The Behind-the-Scenes Story of the San Francisco Dog Mauling by Aphrodite Jones - 4 stars Calypso by David Sedaris - 5 stars   Tracie read: Butcher on the Moor by Ric Brady - 3 stars Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing and Iggie’s House by Judy Blume - 4 stars Every Vow You Break by Peter Swanson - 4 stars Ms. Demeanor by Elinor Lipman - 4 stars While She Slept: A Husband, A Wife, A Brutal Murder by Marion Collins - 4 stars

Recorded on April 15, 2024 Book talk starts at 25:36 Our Summer Tops KAL has begun and goes until to June 1, 2024.  It needs to be an adult-sized top that you consider to be appropriate for use in the summer, and we will leave the parameters of that to you!  Come chat with us about summer tops on our KAL thread, and check out our Summer Tops bundle for pattern ideas! Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   EVENTS Tracie and Barb will  NoCKRs - April 25-28, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA  The 2024 retreat is full, but please contact Tracie at [email protected] to be informed about registration for the 2025 event when registration begins in the fall Fiber Frolic - June 1 at the Soul Food Farm outside Vacaville, CA   Tracie and Barb talked about the new swifts availabile from Alpenglow Yarn!  Barb has one and Tracie has ordered one also.   KNITTING Tracie finished: 2 Knitted Knockers PSL Mitts by Susanna Curtis by Canon Hand Dyes William Merino Fingering in the Waterworld colorway Barb Finished: 2 Knitted Knockers   Tracie is continuing to work on: Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota Knitted Knockers Elorie by Elizabeth Doherty in Berroco Remix in Artichoke Tracie has frogged: Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Zealana Performa KIWI Fingering Barb is working on: Rock It Tee #2 by Tanis Lavallee, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain, in the colors Clarity, Rouge, and U Blue Knitted Knockers Pinnacles Beanie by Nancy Bates, from the Knitting the National Parks by Nancy Bates, using a kit BOOKS Tracie read: Forever Home by Graham Norton - 4 starsBecoming Clark Rockefeller: Murder, Love, Decpetion, and the Con Man Behind it All by Frank C. Girardot Jr. - 2 stars Jennifer, Hecate, Macbeth, William Mckinley and Me, Elizabeth - 3 stars Barb read: A Mother Would Know by Amber Garza - 3 stars Watching You by Lisa Jewell - 3 stars The Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjialian - 4 stars The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager - 2.5 stars     Tracie also recommends: The Supet Inflatable Dog Cone Collar Alternative.  Sally agrees with this recommendation The Man Enough Podcast explores what it means to be a man today and how rigid gender roles have affected all people. The show creates a safe environment for a range of perspectives to meet and stay at the table, exploring how the messages of masculinity show up in relationships, body image, privilege, fatherhood, sex, success, mental health and so much more. Instead of polarizing and demonizing men and masculinity, it invites all humans to participate and thrive in the world. This Webby-nominated podcast is hosted by filmmaker, actor & author Justin Baldoni, author & journalist Liz Plank, and President of Wayfarer Studios & award winning music producer Jamey Heath. It’s currently in Season 2 and is in the top 1% of most followed and shared podcasts on Spotify, beloved by men, women and people of all genders.  

Listen Recorded on Saturday, March 30, 2024 Book talk starts at 20:45 Our Summer Tops KAL has begun and goes until to June 1, 2024.  It needs to be an adult-sized top that you consider to be appropriate for use in the summer, and we will leave the parameters of that to you!  Come chat with us about summer tops on our KAL thread, and check out our Summer Tops bundle for pattern ideas!   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   EVENTS   Tracie and Barb will  NoCKRs - April 25-28, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA.  The retreat is full, but please contact Tracie at [email protected] to be informed about registration for the 2025 event when registration begins in the fall Fiber Frolic - June 1 at the Soul Food Farm outside Vacaville, CA   KNITTING   Tracie finished: 3 Knitted Knockers Bee Beautiful tee by Pia Trans in Carpool Cotton Bamboo in Copper Scraps Chaps puppy by Barbara Prime in Plymouth Encore - this is the pattern I will be teaching in a making knitted toys class this summer at Rumpelstiltskin   Barb Finished: 2 Knitted Knockers CAPROCK tee by Yamagara using Araucania Ollagua Emotional Support Chicken by Annette Corsino, using leftover worsted weight colors from my stash.     Out of hibernation: Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Zealana Performa KIWI Fingering   Cast on: Elorie by Elizabeth Doherty in Berroco Remix in Artichoke   Working On: Fiddly Bits cowl #11 by Jana Pihota Knitted Knockers   Barb is working on: Knitted Knockers Rock It Tee #2 by Tanis Lavallee, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain, in the colors Clarity, Rouge, and U Blue Pinnacles Beanie by Nancy Bates, from the Knitting the National Parks by Nancy Bates, using a kit   BOOKS   Tracie read: Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid - 5 stars Where Monsters Hide: Sex, Murder and Madness in the Midwest by M. William Phelps - 3 stars Happy People Are Annoying by Josh Peck - 3.5 stars California Golden by Melanie Benjamin - 3 stars   Barb read: Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano - 3.5 stars Blood Test by Jonathan Kellerman - 3 stars   Tracie and Barb both recommend the documentary Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV with the warning to be aware that it discusses sexual abuse and is just generally pretty grim.

Recorded on March 14, 2024 Book talk begins at 21:00 Our Summer Tops KAL has begun and goes until to June 1, 2024.  It needs to be an adult-sized top that you consider to be appropriate for use in the summer, and we will leave the parameters of that to you!  Come chat with us about summer tops on our KAL thread, and check out our Summer Tops bundle for pattern ideas!   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   EVENTS Tracie and Barb will  NoCKRs - April 25-28, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA Fiber Frolic - June 1 at the Soul Food Farm outside Vacaville, CA KNITTING Barb Finished: 2 Knitted Knockers   Tracie finished: Tracie's Fresh Favorite Tee by Christen Clement Designs in Queen City Yarn Coleman in the Maple colorway Tracie's Pixie Dust  by Dani Sunshine in Berroco Vintage Handpaintsin a light blue/pale green/purple colorway 1 Knitted Knocker Tracie's Emotional Support Chicken by Annette Corsino, using Hayfield Spirit Chunky Barb is working on: CAPROCK tee by Yamagata using Araucania Ollagua Knitted Knockers Rock It Tee #2 by Tanis Lavallee, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain, in the colors Clarity, Rouge, and U Blue Pinnacles Beanie by Nancy Bates, from the Knitting the National Parks by Nancy Bates, using a kit Barb has cast on: Barb's Emotional Support Chicken by Annette Corsino, using worsted weight leftovers Tracie cast on: Bee Beautiful Tee by Pia Trans in  in Carpool Cotton Bamboo in the Copper colorway She continues to work on: Fiddly Bits Cowl by Jana Pihota using fingering scraps   If you would like to make Knitted Knockers, here is some useful info - From the Knitted Knockers.org website: “Knitted Knockers are special handmade breast prostheses for women who have had breast cancer and undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy. Traditional breast prosthetics can be hot, heavy and sticky. They typically require special bras or camisoles with pockets and can’t be worn for weeks after surgery. Knitted Knockers are soft, comfortable, beautiful and when placed in a regular bra they take the shape and feel of a real breast. They are adjustable, washable and can even be worn while swimming. Our special volunteer knitters provide these FREE to those requesting them” Please visit the Knitted Knockers website, Knitted Knockers Homepage for all the information that you need.   This webpage is especially helpful for information on approved yarns and color information: Yarns and colors Very Important: Please note that neutral colors are preferred.  If you want, you can use bright colors on the bottom of your knocker, but the top of it needs to be in a neutral color.  Patterns: So many choices!  Please go to this section to pick and download your (free) pattern: Knitted Knockers Patterns.  Hint:  The Bottoms Up Knocker for Double Point Needles pattern works great with magic loop too…and has the easiest “start” to your knocker!   BOOKS Barb  read: If It Bleeds by Stephen King - 5 stars The Mystery Guest (Molly the Maid #2) - 3 stars Tracie read:  Forever... by Judy Blume - 4 stars I'll Take Care of You by Caitlin Rother - 4.5 stars The Bone Jar by S.W. Kane - 3 stars   Info from Tracie's "Thumbs Up" about the sweater shaver: The Substack article about pilling is here The excellent sweater shaver can be purchased here

Recorded Wednesday, February 21, 2024 Book talk begins at 31:30 Our Summer Tops KAL has begun and goes until to June 1, 2024.  It needs to be an adult-sized top that you consider to be appropriate for use in the summer, and we will leave the parameters of that to you!  Come chat with us about summer tops on our KAL thread, and check out our Summer Tops bundle for pattern ideas! Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom Events Tracie and Barb will  NoCKRs - April 25-28, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA Fiber Frolic - June 1 at the Soul Food Farm outside Vacaville, CA   KNITTING Barb Finished: Bankhead Hat #27 by Susie Gourley Velvet Pullover by Claudia Quintinella, using Serendipidye Kings Mountain Fingering in the Piccadilly colorway, Invictus Yarn Adventure in the Don’t Look  Under the Lilacs, Invictus Yarns Master of My Feet in the Adagio colorway, AND Knit Picks Palette in the Aster and Bluebells colorway. 2 Knitted Knockers   Tracie finished: 2 Soap Sacks by Haley Waxberg in Knockers yarn (And the bar shampoo and conditioner Tracie can be purchased at https://viori.com/) Beginner’s Rainbow Rabbit by Claire Garland in sparkly periwinkle Tahki Linguine for Lauren’s 12th birthday Jen by Josée Paquin in Marianated Yarns Scrumptious HT in Sea of Glass and Indigo Bunting, Laneras Barefoot in Coral and Invictus Yarns Unconquerable Sole BFL in the Powerful colorway 1 Knitted Knocker   If you would like to make Knitted Knockers, here is some useful info -   From the Knitted Knockers.org website: “Knitted Knockers are special handmade breast prostheses for women who have had breast cancer and undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy. Traditional breast prosthetics can be hot, heavy and sticky. They typically require special bras or camisoles with pockets and can’t be worn for weeks after surgery. Knitted Knockers are soft, comfortable, beautiful and when placed in a regular bra they take the shape and feel of a real breast. They are adjustable, washable and can even be worn while swimming. Our special volunteer knitters provide these FREE to those requesting them” Please visit the Knitted Knockers website, Knitted Knockers Homepage for all the information that you need.   This webpage is especially helpful for information on approved yarns and color information: Yarns and colors Very Important: Please note that neutral colors are preferred.  If you want, you can use bright colors on the bottom of your knocker, but the top of it needs to be in a neutral color.  Patterns: So many choices!  Please go to this section to pick and download your (free) pattern: Knitted Knockers Patterns.  Hint:  The Bottoms Up Knocker for Double Point Needles pattern works great with magic loop too…and has the easiest “start” to your knocker! Barb working on: Cheeky Cables Socks  by Mary Lukas using Universal Yarns Zesty Sock in the Pearl colorway CAPROCK tee by Yamagata using Araucania Ollagua Knitted Knockers   Barb has cast on: Pinnacles Beanie by Nancy Bates, from the Knitting the National Parks by Nancy Bates, using a kit Rock It Tee #2 by Tanis Lavallee, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain, in the colors Clarity, Rouge, and U Blue   Frogged:  Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf by Sirdar, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Follow the Rainbow Colorway   Tracie cast on: Pixie Dust by Dani Sunshine in Berroco Vintage Handpaints in light blue/pale green/purple 1 Knitted Knocker   She continues to work on: Fresh Favorite Tee by Christen Clement Designs in Queen City Yarn Coleman in the Maple colorway Fiddly Bits Cowl by Jana Pihota using fingering scraps   BOOKS Look What You Made me Do: Confronting Heartbreak & Harassment in Big Law by Erin Gordon - 4 stars The Loyal Wife by Natalie Barelli - 3 stars Trail of the Lost: The Relentless Search to Bring Home the Missing Hikers of the Pacific Coast Trail by Andrea Lankford - 5 stars The Secret Place (Dublin Murder Squad, #5) - 4 stars Patient Care: Death and Life in the Emergency Room, by Paul Seward - 4 stars   Tracie read: The River’s Edge (Jackman & Evans #10) by Joy Ellis - 2.5 stars for someone not familiar with the series Ill Wind (Anna Pigeon #3) by Nevada Barr - 3 1/2 stars - takes a while to get going How Lucky by Will Leitch - 3 stars.  Wanted to like it more!  But got frustrated with situation and too worried for main character American Girl by Wendy Walker - 3 stars.  Have not thought about it since I finished it Tunnel Vision: A True Story of Multiple Murder and Justice in Chaos at America's Biggest Marine Base by N.P. Simpson - 4.5 stars The Island of Lost Girls by Alex Marwood - 4 stars Her Last Move by John Marrs - 2 stars

 Recorded Thursday, February 8, 2024     We are so excited to have Kim McBrien Evans, dyer of Indigodragonfly Yarns, designer, teacher, innovator of knitting pattern modification and all-around Textile Maven as our guest this episode!   We had a fantastic talk with her about her background, starting her yarn business, learning to modify knit patterns out of necessity and wanting to share what she’s learned about anything-but-standard sizing and as a teacher, designer and advocate for size inclusivity and a change in the way we size women’s clothing.     Coupon Codes for Our Listeners Website: https://indigodragonfly.ca Discount code for yarn and patterns:  15% off all yarn and patterns   Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/designers/kim-mcbrien-evans Discount code: 2KNITLIT15 15% off all patterns and ebooks   Impervious Shawl  designed to be knit with some of Kim's husband's more complex colorways         A Tale of Two Sweaters   vs     "New Representative Sizing Standards for Garments that Fit" by Kim McBrien Evans for Digits and Threads, March 9, 2022 (you can download the size chart here as well through an email sign up)   "Inclusive Sizing Is Not Impossible—We Just Have to Work Together" by Kim McBrien Evans for Digits and Threads, April 14, 2021 Digits and Threads has a lot of other Kim's articles about fit, so take a look around! Find Kim Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Indigodragonfly Instagram: @indigodragonfly 

Recorded on January 24, 2024 Book Talk starts at 19:28 Our Fall Sweater KAL has ended!  Please stayed tuned to the end of the episode to find out if you won a prize.  We had 107 completed sweaters - way to go! Our Summer Tops KAL will run February 1 to June 1, 2024.  It needs to be an adult-sized top that you consider to be appropriate for use in the summer, and we will the parameters of that to you.  Come chat with us about summer tops on our KAL thread, and check out our Summer Tops bundle for pattern ideas!   Events Tracie and Barb will  NoCKRs - April 25-28, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA.  The retreat is full but you can still get on the waiting list!   KNITTING Barb Finished: Bankhead Hat #27 by Susie Gourley   Tracie finished: Socks to match my Archer in Dizzy Blonde Studios Dizzy Color in Delete and Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock in Cornflower   Barb working on: Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf by Sirdar, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Follow the Rainbow Colorway Cheeky Cables Socks  by Mary Lukas using Universal Yarns Zesty Sock in the Pearl colorway Velvet Pullover by Claudia Quintinilla/Ewe Knit Toronto, using  Serendipidye Kings Mountain Fingering in the Piccadilly colorway, Invictus Yarn Adventure in the Don't Look Under the Lilacs colorway, Invictus Yarns Master of my Feet in the Adagio and the Bobby color ways   Barb has cast on: Bankhead Hat #28 CAPROCK tee by Yamagata using Araucania Ollagua   Tracie has cast on: Beginner’s Rainbow Rabbit by Claire Garland in periwinkle Tahki Linguine from the NYFR destash   She continues to work on: Jen by Josée Paquin in Marianated Yarns Scrumptious HT in Sea of Glass and Indigo Bunting, Laneras Barefoot in Coral and Invictus Yarns Unconquerable Sole BFL in the Powerful colorway Fresh Favorite Tee by Christen Clement Designs in Queen City Yarn Coleman in the Maple colorway Fiddly Bits Cowl by Jana Pihota using fingering scraps   BOOKS Barb read: Impossible Things Before Breakfast: Adventures in the Ordinary by Rebecca Front - 4 stars 56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard - 3 stars Prom Mom - by Laura Lipman - 5 stars Last Dance, Last Chance and Other True Cases (Crime Files #8) by Ann Rule - 4 stars High Country (Anna Pigeon #12) by Nevada Barr - 5 stars   Tracie read: Wham! George Michael and Me by Andrew Ridgeley - 4.5 stars Wrecker by Carl Hiaasen - 3 stars 13 1/2 by Nevada Barr - 3 stars Bunny by Mona Awad - 3 stars Deadly Pretender: the Double Life of David Miller by Karen Kingsbury   Tracie recommends the TV show Jury Duty on Prime Video/FreeVee

Recorded on January 7, 2024 Book talk starts at 13:26 Our annual Fall Sweater KAL is almost over!  Stay tuned for our next KAL which will be announced in Episode 280. Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Northern California Knitting Retreat (fondly known as "NoCKRs) April 25. - 28, 2024 KNITTING Tracie finished: NOT ONE DAMN THING Barb Finished: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty. Using Knit Picks Lindy Chain in the Sage Brush colorway Tracie is Working on: Jen by Josée Paquin in Marianated Yarns Scrumptious HT in Sea of Glass and Indigo Bunting, Laneras Barefoot in Coral and Invictus Yarns Unconquerable Sole BFL in the Powerful colorway Socks to match my Archer in Dizzy Blonde Studios Dizzy Color in Delete and Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock! in Cornflower Tracie has cast-on: Fresh Favorite Tee by Chirsten Clement Designs in Queen City Yarn Coleman in the Maple colorway Fiddly Bits Cowl by Jana Pihota using fingering scraps Barb working on: Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf by Sirdar, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Follow the Rainbow Colorway Bankhead Hat #25 by Susie Gourley, using Berroco Vintage in the Forest colorway Barb has cast on: Cheeky Cables Socks  by Mary Lukas using Universal Yarns Zesty Sock in the Pearl colorway Velvet Pullover by Claudia Quintinilla/Ewe Knit Toronto, using  Serendipidye Kings Mountain Fingering in the Piccadilly colorway, Invictus Yarn Adventure in the Don't Look Under the Lilacs colorway, Invictus Yarns Master of my Feet in the Adagio and the Bobby color ways   BOOKS Tracie has read: The Lazarus Files: A Cold Case Investigation  by Matthew Gough - 4 stars Keep it in the Family by John Mars - 4 stars Drop City by TC Boyle - 5 stars Barb has read: A Good Neighborhood by Therese Anne Fowler - 3 stars Thin Air by Michelle Paver -  4 stars To the Land of Long-Lost Friends: No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency #20 by Alexander McCall Smith - 4 stars The Hypnotist (Joona Linna #1) by Lars Kempler    

Recorded on Saturday, December 23, 2023 Book Talk starts at 28:11   Our annual Fall Sweater KAL has started!  Knit or crochet a sweater for yourself or another adult.     Here are the rules: Dates - 9/1/2023 - 1/15/24. That’s 4 months…plenty of time to knit or crochet an adult-size sweater…or two! We have bundles for inspiration! Beginner sweaters are here. Adventurous Beginners to Advanced sweaters are here Crocheters! Your sweaters are here ANYONE can add sweaters to the bundles! There will be prizes - just post a picture of your lovely finished sweater in our FOs thread. Do you have some sweaters in progress? WIPs count as long as the sweater is less than 50% done on September 1st. Less than 50% done is your call. We don’t have to “approve” your project. It must be an adult-sized sweater, and it must have sleeves. Short sleeves are fine. You must be a member of our Ravelry group to win a prize. Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: New Year Fiber Retreat - January 4-7 at the St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA KNITTING   Barb Finished: Vanilla Socks for Will, using Paton’s Kroy Socks in the Route 66 colorway South Shore Cardigan by Kay Hopkins, using Madelinetosh Tosh DK in the Tart colorway Bankhead Hat #24   Tracie finished: Bankhead Hat #6 by Susie Gourlay in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in grey Simply Garter Stitch Hat by Caron Design Team (free) in Alexandra: The Art of Yarn Pendleton DK Cumulus Blouse by Petite Knit in Countrywide Yarns Windsor 8-ply Frog and Toad by Christina Ingrid McGowan     Barb working on: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty. Using Knit Picks Lindy Chain in the Sage Brush colorway Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf by Sirdar, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Follow the Rainbow Colorway   Barb has cast on: Bankhead Hat #25 by Susie Gourley, using Berroco Vintage in the Forest colorway   Cast on: Jen by Josée Paquin in Marianated Yarns Scrumptious HT in Sea of Glass and Indigo Bunting, Laneras Barefoot in Coral and Invictus Yarns Unconquerable Sole BFL in the Powerful colorway   Working On: Socks to match my Archer in Dizzy Blonde Studios Dizzy Color in Delete and Lisa Souza Dyeworks Deluxe Sock! in Cornflower   BOOKS   Barb is currently reading 4 books, but didn’t finish any since our last episode.  Instead, she recommends:   Believable: The Coco Berthmann Story (podcast) Already Gone (podcast) Betrayal: The Perfect Husband on Hulu Love has Won: Cult of the Mother God on Max   Tracie Read: Prom Mom by Laura Lipman - 4.5 stars Carrie Fisher: A Life on the Edge by Sheila Weller - 5 stars The Best Awful by Carrie Fisher - 4 stars Out of Bounds by Val McDermid - 4 stars Deadly Mistress: A True Story of Marriage, Betrayal and Murder by Michael Freeman - 4 stars My Word Against His by Lauren North - 4.5 stars

 Recorded on November 25, 2023 Book talk begins at 25:40     Our annual Fall Sweater KAL has started!  Knit or crochet a sweater for yourself or another adult.   Here are the rules: Dates - 9/1/2023 - 1/15/24. That’s 4 months…plenty of time to knit or crochet an adult-size sweater…or two! We have bundles for inspiration! Beginner sweaters are here. Adventurous Beginners to Advanced sweaters are here Crocheters! Your sweaters are here ANYONE can add sweaters to the bundles! There will be prizes - just post a picture of your lovely finished sweater in our FOs thread. Do you have some sweaters in progress? WIPs count as long as the sweater is less than 50% done on September 1st. Less than 50% done is your call. We don’t have to “approve” your project. It must be an adult-sized sweater, and it must have sleeves. Short sleeves are fine. You must be a member of our Ravelry group to win a prize. Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: New Year Fiber Retreat - January 4-7 at the St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA KNITTTING Tracie finished: Never Not Gnoming #27 by Sarah Schira in assorted fingering weight leftovers Salty Air Tee by Samantha Guerin in Stitch Sisterz Laceweight Cashmere in Pine Tree and Shaggy Bear Farms Merino with Superwash and Tussah Silk in blue green Hungry Horse Hat 3 in various acrylics Rikke Hat #4 by Sarah Young for Jayla - using Tess Designer Yarns Superwash Merino and Alexandra: the Art of Yarn Pendleton DK Barb continues to work on: Vanilla Socks for Will, using Paton’s Kroy Socks in the Route 66 colorway Donner by Elizabeth Doherty using Knit Picks Lindy Chain in the Sage Brush colorway South Shore Cardigan by Kay Hopkins, using madelinetosh Tosh DK in the Tart colorway Bankhead Hat #24 Barb has cast on: Sirdar Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf  designed by Sirdar, using a Sirdar Colorwheel in the Follow your Rainbow colorway   Tracie cast on: Socks to match her Archer in Dizzy Blood Studios Dizzy Color in Delete and Lisa Souza Dyeworks Delux Sock in cornflower Bankhead hat #6 by Susie Gourlay in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in gray   She continues to work on: Cumulus Blouse by Petite Knit in Countrywide Yarns Windsor 8-ply  BOOKS Barb read: Confessions by Kanye Minato - 3 stars The Last Anniversary by Liane Moriarty - 3 stars Redhead by the Side of the Road by Anne Tyler - 4 stars The Mistress Next Door by Lesley Sanderson - 3stars But I Trusted You and Other True Cases (Crime files #14) - 4 stars Vanished in Vermillion: The Real Story of South Dakota's Most Infamous Cold Caseby Lou Ragusa - 3 stars Tracie read: Isabel's Bed by Elinor Lipman - 4 stars Watching Youby Lisa Jewell - 4 stars The Lowcountry Murder of Gwendolyn Elaine Fogle: a Cold Case Solved by Rita Schuler - 3 stars A Wolf at the Table by Augusten Burroughs - 3 stars Blood on Their Hands: Murder, Corruption, and the Fall of the Murdaugh Dynasty by Mandy Matney - 4 stars  

Recorded on Thursday, October 26, 2023 Book Talk starts at 27:53 Our annual Fall Sweater KAL has started!  Knit or crochet a sweater for yourself or another adult.   Here are the rules: Dates - 9/1/2023 - 1/15/24. That’s 4 months…plenty of time to knit or crochet an adult-size sweater…or two! We have bundles for inspiration! Beginner sweaters are here. Adventurous Beginners to Advanced sweaters are here Crocheters! Your sweaters are here ANYONE can add sweaters to the bundles! There will be prizes - just post a picture of your lovely finished sweater in our FOs thread. Do you have some sweaters in progress? WIPs count as long as the sweater is less than 50% done on September 1st. Less than 50% done is your call. We don’t have to “approve” your project. It must be an adult-sized sweater, and it must have sleeves. Short sleeves are fine. You must be a member of our Ravelry group to win a prize. Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina New Year Fiber Retreat - January 4-7, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA    KNITTTING Barb Finished: Bears 288 & 189   Tracie finished: Pixelated Pullover by Jennifer Beaumont in madelinetosh Tosh Merino DK, madelinetosh Tosh Sport and Duren Dyeworks Love Sport Hungry Horse Hat #2   Barb continues to work on: Vanilla Socks for Will, using Paton’s Kroy Socks in the Route 66 colorway Donner by Elizabeth Doherty using Knit Picks Lindy Chain in the Sage Brush colorway   Barb has cast on: South Shore Cardigan by Kay Hopkins, using madelinetosh Tosh DK in the Tart colorway   Tracie cast on: Hungry Horse Hat 3 in various acrylics Cumulus Blouse by Petite Knit in Countrywide Yarns Windsor 8-ply   She continues to work on: Salty Air Tee by Samantha Guerin in Stitch Sisterz Laceweight Cashmere in Pine Tree and Shaggy Bear Farms Merino with Superwash and Tussah Silk in blue green   BOOKS Barb read: Falling by T.J. Newman - 5 stars Drowning by T.J. Newman - 4 stars You Can’t Catch Me by Catherine McKenzie - 3 stars The In-Laws by Laura Wolfe - 4 stars   Tracie read: Mirrorland by Carole Johnstone - 3.5 stars The Running Grave (Cormoran Strike #7) by Robert Galbraith - 5 stars Kill or Be Killed by Robert Scott - 3.5 stars   Barb’s recommended podcasts: Were You Raised by Wolves? Out Alive Breakdown: The Trump Indictment  

Recorded Friday, October 13, 2023 Book talk begins at 27:00 Our annual Fall Sweater KAL has started!  Knit or crochet a sweater for yourself or another adult.   Here are the rules: Dates - 9/1/2023 - 1/15/24. That’s 4 months…plenty of time to knit or crochet an adult-size sweater…or two! We have bundles for inspiration! Beginner sweaters are here. Adventurous Beginners to Advanced sweaters are here Crocheters! Your sweaters are here ANYONE can add sweaters to the bundles! There will be prizes - just post a picture of your lovely finished sweater in our FOs thread. Do you have some sweaters in progress? WIPs count as long as the sweater is less than 50% done on September 1st. Less than 50% done is your call. We don’t have to “approve” your project. It must be an adult-sized sweater, and it must have sleeves. Short sleeves are fine. You must be a member of our Ravelry group to win a prize.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   Events Tracie and Barb will be at: The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina New Year Fiber Retreat - January 4-7, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA   KNITTING Barb finished Mother Bear #288 & 289 Hungry Horse Hat by Aimee Alexander using Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK in the Aurora, Depths, Juneberry color way   Tracie finished: Socks in Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway Hungry Horse Hat#1  by Aimee Alexander in Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK   Barb is working on: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain in the Sagebrush colorway Vanilla Socks for Will, using Paton’s Kroy Socks in the Route 66 colorway. Barb has Cast On South Shore Cardigan by Kay Hopkins, using Madelinetosh Tosh DK in the Tart colorway Mother Bear #290 Tracie has cast on: Salty Air Tee by Samantha Guerin, using Stitch Sisters Laceweight  Cashmere in Pine Tree and Shaggy Bear Farms Merino with Superwash and Tussah Silk in Blue Green Hungry Horse Hat #2 In Hibernation for Tracie: Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Zealana Kiwi (Merino/Brushtail Possum/Cotton Blend) in Rococco  Tracie is working on: Pixelated Pullover by Jennifer Beaumont in madelinetosh Tosh Merino DK, madelinetosh Tosh Sport and Duren Dyeworks Love Sport   BOOKS Barb read: The Mosquito by B.A. Paris - 5 stars Ascent Into Hell: Mount Everest  by Fergus White - 5 stars The Couple in the Cabin byDaniel Hurst - 4 stars   Tracie read:  Sickened: The True Story of a Lost Childhood by Julie Gregory Kala by Colin Walsh Deadly Little Secrets: The Minister, His Mistress and a Heartless Texas Murder by Kathryn Casey

Recorded Friday, September 22, 2023 Book talk begins at 27:50   Our annual Fall Sweater KAL has started!  Knit or crochet a sweater for yourself or another adult.   Here are the rules: Dates - 9/1/2023 - 1/15/24. That’s 4 months…plenty of time to knit or crochet an adult-size sweater…or two! We have bundles for inspiration! Beginner sweaters are here. Adventurous Beginners to Advanced sweaters are here Crocheters! Your sweaters are here ANYONE can add sweaters to the bundles! There will be prizes - just post a picture of your lovely finished sweater in our FOs thread. Do you have some sweaters in progress? WIPs count as long as the sweater is less than 50% done on September 1st. Less than 50% done is your call. We don’t have to “approve” your project. It must be an adult-sized sweater, and it must have sleeves. Short sleeves are fine. You must be a member of our Ravelry group to win a prize.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   Events Tracie and Barb will be at: Lambtown - October 7-8, 2023 at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina New Year Fiber Retreat - January 4-7, 2024 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, CA     KNITTING Barb finished Mother Bear #287 Barley Hat #7 by Tin Can Knits, using Knit Picks Hawthorn in the Spri Coco Cardigan by Claudia Quintanilla - EweKnit Toronto, using Knit Picks Hawthorn in the Springfield colorway   Tracie finished: Darling Darby #7 by Jean Clement in Red Heart Super Saver in the Retro Stripe colorway   Barb is working on: Hungry Horse Hat by Aimee Alexander using Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK in the Aurora, Depths, Juneberry color ways Vanilla Socks for Will, using Paton’s Kroy Socks in the Route 66 colorway.   Barb has Cast On Rock It Tee #2, by Tanis Lavalee, using Knit Picks Lindy Chain in 3 colors, UBlue, Clarity and Rouge Donner by Elizabeth Doherty, using Knit Pick Lindy Chain in the Sage Brush colorway   Tracie has ast on: Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva in Zealana Kiwi (Merino/Brushtail Possum/Cotton Blend) in Rococco    Tracie is working on: Pixelated Pullover by Jennifer Beaumont in madelinetosh Tosh Merino DK, madelinetosh Tosh Sport and Duren Dyeworks Love Sport Socks in Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway   BOOKS Barb read: Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson - 3 stars Lock Every Door by Riley Sager - 3 stars The Perfect Neighbors by Sarah Pekkanen - 4 stars   Tracie read: Waco: David Koresh, the Branch Davidians and a Legacy of Rage by Jeff Guin - 5 stars Election by Tom Perotta - 3 stars Raylan (Raylan Givens #4)  by Elmore Leonard - 3 stars   Tracie has launched her side hustle - The Knitting Coach - in person, one-on-one knitting instruction for beginners and anyone who wants to push their knitting skills forward

Recorded on September 6, 2023 Book Talk starts at: 26:50 Our Mother Bear KAL has ended!  Prizes will be announced during our next podcast, Episode 224.  Counting the bears that Tracie and Barb completed, there will be about 135 bears heading to Africa to make some children really happy.  THANK YOU to all that participated by knitting or crocheting bears and making donations to the Mother Bear organization.   Our annual Fall Sweater KAL has started!  Knit or crochet a sweater for yourself or another adult.   Here are the rules: Dates - 9/1/2023 - 1/15/24. That’s 4 months…plenty of time to knit or crochet an adult-size sweater…or two! We have bundles for inspiration! Beginner sweaters are here. Adventurous Beginners to Advanced sweaters are here Crocheters! Your sweaters are here ANYONE can add sweaters to the bundles! There will be prizes - just post a picture of your lovely finished sweater in our FOs thread. Do you have some sweaters in progress? WIPs count as long as the sweater is less than 50% done on September 1st. Less than 50% done is your call. We don’t have to “approve” your project. It must be an adult-sized sweater, and it must have sleeves. Short sleeves are fine. You must be a member of our Ravelry group to win a prize.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Lambtown - October 7-8, 2023 at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina KNITTING Barb finished Mother Bears 283-285 Ribbed Beanie #3 by Vanessa Ewing, using Western Sky Knits Biggie in the Fishbowl Colorway Vanilla socks using Patons Kroy Socks Stripes in the Meadow Stripes colorway Barley Hat #7, by Tin Can Knits using some of Tracie's handspun    Tracie Finished   Mother Bear #318 Lightweight Raglan Pullover by Purl Soho in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper in Shantay, You Stay! Morning Ritual Style Marklee by Olga Putano Designs OR Marklee DK by Elizabeth Dorherty with colorwork chart from Women’s Kerbstone by Heather Pfeifer OR Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva  Barb is working on: Hungry Horse Hat by Aimee Alexander using Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK in the Aurora, Depths, Juneberry color ways And has cast on: Vanilla Socks for Will, using Patons Kroy Socks Jacquard Coco Cardigan by Claudia Quintanilla, using some leftover Knit Picks Hawthorne Kettle-Dye in the Springfield colorway. Barley Hat #7 by Tin Can Knits in handspun from Tracie  Barb has frogged: Miles Tee by Ozetta: Hailey Smedley in Universal Yarns Bamboo Pop Sock Tracie has cast on: Pixelated Pullover  by Jennifer Beaumont using Madelinetosh Tosh Merino DK and Madelinetosh Tosh Sport and Duren Dyeworks Love Sport And continues working on: Socks in Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway   BOOKS Barb read: Shattered by Kathryn Casey - 4 stars Dead of Winter by Darcy Coates - 3 stars The Suspect (Kate Waters #3) - 3 stars Frog and Toad are Doing Their Best (A Parody): Bedtime Stories for Trying Times by Jennie Egerlie - 5 stars Borderline (Anna Pigeon #15)  by Nevada Barr - 4 stars Tracie read: The Politician (DS Cross #4) by Tim Sullivan - 4 stars The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman - 3 1/2 stars The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty - 4 1/2 stars The Children on the Hill by Jennifer McMahon - 4 stars

Recorded Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Book talk begins at 23:04 Our annual Mother Bear KAL is ending soon!  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread. We have a listener who has come up with 3 incentive prizes for increasing your bear count!  For more info, please check out the Mother Bear Incentive Prizes thread.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Lambtown - October 7-8, 2023 at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   KNITTING Barb finished Mother Bears 278-283 6600K (Striped Hoodie) by Barry Klein, using 4 colors of Lana Grossa Ecopuno Degrade Carley by Elizabeth Smith, using Berroco Remix Light in the Mist colorway   Tracie finished: Mother Bear 314 Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavallee in Alchemy: Yarns of Transformation Silken Straw in 6 different color ways   Barb is working on: Razzle Dazzle Scarf in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper Gradient Set in the Razzle Dazzle #22 colorwayMother Bear 284 Hungry Horse Hat by Aimee Alexander using Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK in the Aurora, Depths, Juneberry color ways   And has cast on: Ribbed Beanie by Vanessa Ewing, using Western Sky Knits Biggie in the Fishbowl Colorway Vanilla socks using Patons Kroy Socks Stripes in the Meadow Stripes colorway Miles Tee by Ozetta: Hailey Smedley   Tracie has cast on: Morning Ritual Top by Olga Putano Designs OR Marklee DK by Elizabeth Dorherty with colorwork chart from Women’s Kerbstone by Heather Pfeifer OR Dawning Top by Ainur Berkimbayeva   And continues working on: Lightweight Raglan Pullover by Purl Soho in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper in Shantay, You Stay! Socks in Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway   BOOKS Barb read: Love Me or Else: The True Story of a Devoted Pastor, a Fatal Jealousy, and the Murder that Rocked a Small Town by Colin McEvoy and Lynn Olanoff  - 4 stars Couple Found Slain: After a Family Murder by Mikita Brottman - 3 stars From Below by Darcy Coates - 5 stars The Truth About Melody Browne by Lisa Jewell - 3 stars The Dream Job by Kiersten Modgin - 3 stars Living the Dream by M. J. Hardy - 3 stars Too Close to the Falls: a Memoir by Catherine Gildener - 5 stars Blood Brother: 33 Reasons My Brother Scott Peterson is Guilty - 4 stars   Tracie read: The Locals by Jonathan Dee - 4 stars Too Close to Breathe by Olivia Kiernan - 3 stars If Looks Could Kill by M. William Phelps - 2 stars

Book Talk starts at 23:51 Recorded Friday, July 14, 2023 Our annual Mother Bear KAL began June 1, 2023, but any bears you have knit or crocheted in 2023 are eligible as entries for prizes.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread. We have a listener who has come up with 3 incentive prizes for increasing your bear count!  For more info, please check out the Mother Bear Incentive Prizes thread. Virtual Knitting Group via ZoomEvents Tracie and Barb will be at: Lambtown - October 7-8, 2023 at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina KNITTING Tracie finished: Rift by Jacqueline Cieslak in Juniper Moon Farms Zooey in Rigging Mother Bears 311, 312 and 313   Barb finished Mother Bears 275, 276 & 277 Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavalee, using Anzula Breeze lace in the Fern and Gravity colorways WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-Ply Self Striping in the Peacock colorway   Tracie cast on: Lightweight Raglan Pullover by Purl Soho in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper in Shantay, You Stay!   She continues to work 0n: Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavallee in Alchemy: Yarns of Transformation Silken Straw in 7 different color ways Socks in Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway   Barb is working on: Razzle Dazzle Scarf in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper Gradient Set in the Razzle Dazzle #22 colorway 6600K (Striped Hoodie) by Barry Klein, using 4 colors of Lana Grossa Ecopuna Degradé6600K (Striped Hoodie) by Barry Klein, using 4 colors of Lana Grossa Ecopuno Degrade Mother Bear 278 Carley by Elizabeth Smith Knits, using Berroco Remix in the Mist colorway Hungry Horse Hat by Aimee Alexander using Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK in the Aurora, Depths, Juneberry color ways BOOKS Tracie finished: Dannemora: Two Escaped Killers, Three Weeks of Terror, and the Largest Manhunt Ever in New York State by Charles A. Gardner - 4 stars Curse of the Spellmans (The Spellmans #2) by Lisa Lutz - 3 stars French Braid by Anne Tyler - 4 stars Hey, Hun: Sales, Sisterhood, Supremacy, and the Other Lies Behind Multilevel Marketing by Emily Lynn Paulson - 5 stars Love Me or Else: The True Story of a Devoted Pastor, a Fatal Jealousy, and the Murder that Rocked a Small Town by Colin McEvoy and Lynn Olanoff - 4 1/2 stars After Everything You Did by Stephanie Sowden - 2 stars Barb read: The Disappearing Act by Catherine Steadman - 4 stars Never Coming Home by Hannah Mary McKinnon - 4 stars Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six by Lisa Unger - 3 stars Tender at the Bone: Growing Up at the Table by Ruth Reichl - 4.5 stars Arctic Homestead: the True Story of One Family’s Survival and Courage in the Alaskan Wilds by Norma Cobb It’s One of Us by J.T. Ellison - 4.5 stars

Recorded on June 28 & July 5, 2023 Our annual Mother Bear KAL began June 1, 2023, but any bears you have knit or crocheted in 2023 are eligible as entries for prizes.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread. We have a listener who has come up with 3 incentive prizes for increasing your bear count!  For more info, please check out the Mother Bear Incentive Prizes thread. Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   The next 2 segments were recorded at Eileen's Bunkhouse in Lincoln, Montana. Eileen is RedsKnits on Ravelry June 28: Participants: Tracie (alittleposy) Barb (KnittyBarb) Eileen (redsknits) Celia (PinotNoir) Eileen talked about: 1. Book - DC Smith and Kings Lake Investigation Series by Peter Grainger. "British murder mysteries with good plot lines and excellent character development over the series. And he's still writing!" 2. Knitting - starting the Davis pullover by Pam Allen, using Tracie's directions. She is knitting it  using some vintage stash O-wool that has been dyed by Alpenglow.   3. Eileen talked about Alpenglow Industries, especially their Textile and Yarns Tools. Check out their cool stitch markers!     Celia talked about: 1. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman   2.  Knitting - She talked about knitting the Beneath a Summer Sky shawl by Debra Gerhard in Ritual Dyes Fae  (mohair silk) and Maiden (merino fingering) in the Taurus colorway.   Tracie talked about: 1.  Book - Disappearance at Devil's Rock by Paul Tremblay   2. Knitting - Marklee DK by Elizabeth Doherty in KnitPicks comfy in the Planetarium colorway.   Barb talked about: 1.  Book - Arctic Homestead: The True Story of One Family's Survival and Courage in the Alaskan Wilds       by Norma Cobb 2.  Knitting - Carley by Elizabeth Smith Knits, using Berroco Remix in the Mist colorway.   July 5 Participants:   Susan (suscochran)   Shelley (SequoiaShelley)   Barb and Tracie   Susan talked about:   1.  Book - The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley   2.  Knitting - Zephyr Mark II by Celia McAdam Cahill, using Farmer's Daughter Foxy Lady in the Harry Belafonte colorway   Shelley talked about: 1.  Book -Unbroken: a World War II Story of Survival, Resiliance and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand   2.  Knitting - she is currently working on a mitred square blanket, not following a pattern   Barb talked about: Hungry Horse Hat by Aimee Alexander in Polka Dot Sheep Stumptown DK minis from a kit given to her by Susan   Tracie talked about: Rock It tee by Tanis Lavallee in Alchemy: Yarns of Transformation Silken Straw in 7 different  colorways

Recorded June 9, 2023 Book Talk Starts at 26.03 Our annual Mother Bear KAL began June 1, 2023, but any bears you have knit or crocheted in 2023 are eligible as entries for prizes.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  Talk bears with us in the Mother Bear Chatter thread and post your finished bears in the FOs thread. We have a listener who has come up with 3 incentive prizes for increasing your bear count!  For more info, please check out the Mother Bear Incentive Prizes thread.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Lambtown - October 7-8, 2023 at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   Tracie will be in New Zealand and Sydney, Australia this summer!  If you are near Auckland, National Park, Wellington, or the Marlborough region in NZ, or Sydney, and you’d like to try to meet up, please message Tracie at [email protected] or alittleposy on Ravelry.   KNITTING Barb finished 3 bears (272, 273, 274)   Tracie finished: Summer Sorrel by Wood & Pine in Despondent Dyes OMG Glitter! in the Even My Attorney Says “Let It Go” colorway 4 Mother Bears - 307-310 Gnome 26 - Never Not Gnoming by Sarah Schira in Neighborhood Fiber Co Rustic Fingering in Rock Creek Park and Psych Ward Yarns Hecka Fingering in Cable Car Red   Barb is working on: Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavalee, using Anzula Breeze in the Fern and Gravity colorways WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply Self-Striping in the Peacock colorway Razzle Dazzle Scarf in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper Gradient Set in the Razzle Dazzle #22 colorway 6600K (Striped Hoodie) by Barry Klein, using 4 colors of Lana Grossa Ecopuna Degradé   Barb has Cast On Mother Bear 275   Cast On: Rift by Jacqueline Cieslak in Juniper Moon Farm Zooey Experimental sweater - all mini skeins! Mother Bear 311   Working On: Marklee DK by Elizabeth Doherty in Knit Picks Comfy in Planetarium Socks in Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway   BOOKS Barb and Tracie both enthusiastically recommend:  Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver - 5 stars   Barb read: The Liar’s Club by Mary Karr - 4 stars The Year of Less : How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life is Worth More than Anything You can Buy in a Store by Cait Flanders - 3 stars   Tracie read: The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell - 4.5 stars Tracie recommends Onyx Professional Hard as Hoof Nail Strengthening Cream

Listen Recorded Wednesday, May 24, 2023 Book talk begins at 25:55 Our Cables KAL has ended.  Please listen until the end of the podcast to hear whether you’ve won a prize, and thanks to everyone for participating! Our next KAL will be our annual Mother Bear KAL!  It will officially start on June 1, 2023, but any bears you have knit or crocheted in 2023 are eligible as entries for prizes.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  More info to come... Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Fiber Frolic - Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10 am – 4 pm at Soul Food Farm in Vacaville, CA.  There will be no food vendors, so bring your own lunch and a chair.  The entry fee is $10 per person, and parking will be in a field and not limited. Lambtown - October 7-8, 2023 at the Dixon May Fairgrounds in Dixon, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   KNITTING Barb finished 1 Knocker Twisty Taper Cap by Shelby NichKnit Designs, using Plymouth Encore Tweed in the Red Brick colorway Tracie finished: Mother Bears 304-306 Barb is working on: Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavalee, using Anzula Breeze in the Fern and Gravity colorways WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply Self-Striping in the Peacock colorway Razzle Dazzle Scarf in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper Gradient Set in the Razzle Dazzle #22 colorway   Barb has Cast On 6600K (Striped Hoodie) by Barry Klein, using 4 colors of Lana Grossa Ecopuna Degradé Mother Bear 271 Cast On: Marklee DK by Elizabeth Doherty in Knit Picks Comfy in Planetarium Socks in madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light Glitter in T’Challa colorway Working On: Summer Sorrel by Wood & Pine in Despondent Dyes OMG Glitter! in the Even My Attorney Says “Let It Go” colorway   BOOKS Barb read: Verity by Colleen Hoover - 2 stars All That is Mine I Carry with Me - 4 stars Tracie read: Blubber by Judy Blume - 5 stars Unmask Alice: LSD, Satanic Panic, and the Imposter Behind the World's Most Notorious Diaries by Rick Emerson - 5 stars Go Ask Alice by Beatrice Sparks - 4 stars Frog and Toad Are Doing Their Best: Bedtime Stories for Trying Times (A Parody) written by and illustrated by Ellie Hajdu - 4 stars The Patient by Tim Sullivan - 4 stars

Recorded on May 8, 2023 Book Talk starts at: 25:30 Our Cables KAL is almost over... May 15th is the last day you can post pictures of your finished cable-y goodness projects.   Prizes will be announced during Episode 268.   Our next KAL will be our annual Mother Bear KAL!  It will officially start on June 1, 2023, but any bears you have knit or crocheted in 2023 are eligible as entries for prizes.  To find out all about this wonderful charity, please go to Mother Bear Project website.  More info to come...     Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: Fiber Frolic - Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10 am – 4 pm at Soul Food Farm in Vacaville, CA.  There will be no food vendors, so bring your own lunch and a chair.  The entry fee is $10 per person, and parking will be in a field and not limited. The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   KNITTING   Barb finished 4 Knitted Knockers (12 total for 2023)     Tracie has finished: 13 Knitted Knockers total for 2023 Mother Bears 302 & 303    Fiddly Bits #9 #9 by Jana Pihota Tracie's Donner by Elizabeth Doherty   Tracie's Donner Barb Is working on: Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavalee, using Anzula Breeze in the Fern and Gravity colorways WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply Self-Striping in the Peacock colorway Razzle Dazzle Scarf in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper Gradient Set in the Razzle Dazzle #22 colorway Barb has cast-on: Twisty Taper Hat by NichKnit Designs using Plymouth Yarn Encore   Tracie is working on: Summer Sorrel by Wood & Pine in Despondent Dyes OMG Glitter! in the Even My Attorney Says “Let It Go” colorway Tracie has frogged: China Top by Ksenia Naidyon in Alchemy Silken Straw     BOOKS   Barb has finished: Vacationland by Meg Mitchell Moore - 4 stars Fatal Friends, Deadly Neighbors and Other True Cases (Crime Files #16) by Ann Rule - 4 stars Small Game by Blair Braverman - 3.5 stars     Tracie has finished: Legendary Children: The First Decade of RuPaul's Drag Race and the Last Century of Queer Life by Tom Fitzgerald and Lorenzo Marquez - 5 stars Blood Betrayal by Sheila Johnson - 2.5 stars Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume - 5 stars Such a Pretty Girl by T. Greenwood - 4 stars   Tracie talked about Universal Standard Clothing Co.

Recorded on April 5, 2023 Book Talk starts at 19:25 Come join us knitting or crocheting your projects with CABLES! That's right, cables.  Come on over to the Cables KAL Chatter Thread to check out the rules and chat about your plans.  Dates are now until 5/15/23.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: The Northern California Knitting Retreat (NoCKRs) - April 27-30, 2023 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California.  The retreat is now full, but we generally have spots that will open as we get close to the dates.  If you would like to be on the waiting list,  message Tracie at [email protected] for info and the registration form. Fiber Frolic - Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10 am – 4 pm at Soul Food Farm in Vacaville, CA.  There will be no food vendors, so bring your own lunch and a chair.  The entry fee is $10 per person, and parking will be in a field and not limited. The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   KNITTING Tracie finished: Tiny Dancer top by Laura Dean in Shaggy Bear Farms SW Merino & Tussah Silk Fingering for Lexi 2 Knitted Knockers Barb finished Low-key Cowl by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade 220 in the green colorway (very old stash) Ilha pullover by Orlane Sucche, using Greenwood Fiber Indulgence (merino, cashmere and silk). 3  Knockers Tracie has cast on: Summer Sorrel by Wood & Pine in Despondent Dyes OMG Glitter! in the Even My Attorney Says “Let It Go” colorway And continues to work on: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty in Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK in Spring  Barb is working on: Low-key Cowl by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade 220 in the green colorway (very old stash) Knitted Knockers WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply Self-Striping in the Peacock colorway Razzle Dazzle Scarf in Leading Men Fiber Arts Show Stopper Gradient Set in the Razzle Dazzle #22 colorway And has cast on: Rock It Tee by Tanis Lavalee, using Anzula Breeze in the Fern and Gravity colorways   BOOKS Barb read: Fatty Fatty Boom Boom: A Memoir of Food, Fat and Family by Rabia Chaudry - 5 stars Mothered by Zoje Stage - 3.5 stars The Substitution Order by Martin Clark - 3.5 stars Last Seen (Detective Bernadette Noel #1) by Joy Kluver - 3 stars Tracie read: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey - 4.5 stars Snap by Belinda Bauer - 4.5 stars Kellynch: The Sequel to Jane Austen’s Persuasion - 2.5 stars  

Recorded on April 5, 2023 Book Talk starts at 33:00 Come join us knitting or crocheting your projects with CABLES! That's right, cables.  Come on over to the Cables KAL Chatter Thread to check out the rules and chat about your plans.  Dates are now until 5/15/23.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: The Northern California Knitting Retreat (NoCKRs) - April 27-30, 2023 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California.  The retreat is now full, but we generally have spots that will open as we get close to the dates.  If you would like to be on the waiting list,  message Tracie at [email protected] for info and the registration form. Fiber Frolic - Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10 am – 4 pm at Soul Food Farm in Vacaville, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina KNITTING   Tracie has finished: Zephyr Mark II by Celia Cahill in Laneras Barefoot in Coral Vanilla socks in Emma’s Yarn Super Silky in Hot Tamale Barb has finished: Barley Hat by Tin Can Knits using worsted weight bear yarn 3 Knockers        Tracie's Sweater Surgery: She added length to her Colorful Geometry pullover Transformed her Velvet Pullover from a round Yoke to raglan, then added length Tracie is working on: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty in Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK in Spring Tiny Dancer top by Laura Dean in Shaggy Bear Farms SW Merino & Tussah Silk Fingering for Lexi Barb is working on: Low-key Cowl by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade 220 in the green colorway (very old stash) Knitted Knockers Ilha pullover by Orlane Sucche, using Greenwood Fiber Indulgence (merino, cashmere and silk). WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-ply Self-Striping in the Peacock colorway   BOOKS   Tracie has read: Moonlight Mile (Kenzie & Gennaro #6) by Dennis Lehane - 4 stars Starring Sally J. Friedman as Herself by Judy Blume - 5 stars Boar Island (Anna Pigeon #19) by Nevada Barr - 4 stars   Barb has read: The End of Temperance Dare by Wendy Webb.- 3 stars The Lost Girls of Willowbrook by Ellen Marie Wiseman - 4 stars Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster by Jon Krakauer - 5 stars      

Recorded on March 22, 2023 Book talk starts at 29:20 Come join us knitting or crocheting your projects with CABLES! That's right, cables.  Come on over to the Cables KAL Chatter Thread to check out the rules and chat about your plans.  Dates are now until 5/15/23.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom EVENTS Tracie and Barb will be at: The Northern California Knitting Retreat (NoCKRs) - April 27-30, 2023 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California.  We have 1 open spot - message Tracie at [email protected] for info and the registration form. Fiber Frolic - Saturday, May 27, 2023, 10 am – 4 pm at Soul Food Farm in Vacaville, CA The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   KNITTING Tracie finished: 2 Knitted Knockers in Cascade Ultra Pima Vanilla socks in Western Sky Knits Merino 17 Light held double 10 knitted headbands, all knit from stash - patterns used: Smidge Headband by Angela Tennant Lova by Chicory Sticks Fiana by Connie Stults Godmother Headband by Amanda Rosa Star Stitch Headband by Jessica Flowers and various patterns from 150 Knitted Trims by Lesley Stanfield   Barb finished: Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder using Canon Hand Dyes sock set Blushing Braids Beanie by Amy Kate Sutherland, using Valley Yarns Northampton 4 Knockers   Tracie cast on: Donner by Elizabeth Doherty in Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK in Spring Tiny Dancer top by Laura Dean in Shaggy Bear Farms SW Merino & Tussah Silk Fingering for Lexi   And continues to work on: Zephyr Mark II by Celia Cahill in Laneras Barefoot in Coral Vanilla socks in Emma’s Yarn Super Silky in Hot Tamale   Barb is working on: Low-key Cowl by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade 220 in the green colorway (very old stash) Knitted Knockers   And has cast on: WYS Vanilla Socks, using West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4-Ply Self Striping in the Peacock colorway Ilha pullover by Orlane Sucche, using Greenwood Fiber Indulgence (merino, cashmere and silk). Barley Hat by Tin Can Knits using worsted weight bear yarn   She frogged: Winters Beach by Andrea Mowry, using Madelinetosh Tosh DK in the Tart colorway    BOOKS Tracie read: The Decision to Kill: A True Crime Story of a Teenage Killer and the Mother Who Loved Him by Leslie Ghiglieri - 3 stars Edge of Normal by Carla Norton - 4 stars (but 1 star for narration!) The Dentist by Tim Sullivan - 4.5 stars The Cyclist by Tim Sullivan - 4 stars A Girl Returned by Ann Goldstein - 4.5 stars Girls Who Lie by Eva Björg Ægisdóttir - 4 stars   Tracie and Barb highly recommend: Trailed: One Woman’s Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders by Kathryn Miles - 5 stars   Barb read: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt - 3.5 stars Other Parents by Sarah Stovell - 4 stars A Slow Fire Burning by Paula Hawkins - 4 stars The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden - 4 stars   Tracie recommends AMC+ app/channel - subscribe through Amazon Prime or go to amcplus.com

Stitches West episode!   Recorded on March 3 - 5 2023   Vendors mentioned in this episode Alpenglow Industries Pam Powers Knits Porter Wool Co. Fiber Lady Seattle Sky Dyeworks Knit Baah Purl Greenwood Fibers Anzula Madelinetosh Oink Pigments Carpool Indiemade yarn Great Yarns!   Tracie attended Sandy Peters' class, Intro to Stacked Stitches. Barb attended Lorilee Beltman's class, Transform you Knitting with the Magic Cast On.      

Recorded Wednesday, February 22, 2023 Book talk begins at 32:25 Come join us knitting or crocheting your projects with CABLES! That's right, cables.  Come on over to the Cables KAL Chatter Thread to check out the rules and chat about your plans.  Dates are now until 5/15/23.   Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom Events Tracie and Barb will be at: Stitches West 2023 - March 2-5 at the Sacramento Convention Center in Sacramento, California.  Stay tuned for Episode 263, which will be our Stitches recap! The Northern California Knitting Retreat (NoCKRs) - April 27-30, 2023 at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California.  The retreat is now full, but you can still be put on the waiting list - message Tracie at [email protected] for info and the registration form. The TKGA Retreat 2023 - November 2-5, 2023 at the Hilton Charlotte University Place Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina   KNITTING Finished Tracie has finished: Velvet Pullover by EweKnit Toronto (discontinued online) in Western Sky Knits Merino 17 Light dyed by Kim and me Penelope Romper by Linnea Nyman with a different cable pattern substituted in Berroco Pure Pima Soizic Headband by Along avec Anna in Plymouth Encore 4 Knitted Knockers in Cascade Ultra Pima and  Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK Barb has finished: Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Perfectly Pretty colorway Burgos vest by Rosa Pomar, using Plymouth Galway Worsted in the Grey Heather colorway Koko Bean Hat, using 5 colors of acrylic bear yarn   Tracie has frogged: Calyx by Elizabeth Doherty in Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK, knit in 2021   She has cast on: Zephyr Mark II by Celia Cahill in Laneras Barefoot in Coral Vanilla socks in Emma’s Yarn Super Silky in Hot Tamale Vanilla socks in Western Sky Knits Merino 17 Light held double   Barb continues to work on: Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder using Canon Hand Dyes sock set Blushing Braids Beanie by Amy Kate Sutherland, using Red Heart bear yarn in a light gray color   She has cast on: Low-key Cowl by Elizabeth Smith, using Cascade 220 in the green colorway (very old stash) Winters Beach by Andrea Mowry, using Madelinetosh Tosh DK in the Tart colorway.   And frogged: Citadel by Joji Locatelli, using Rowan RYC Wool Tweed   BOOKS Tracie read: The Good Wife: The Shocking Betrayal and Brutal Murder of a Godly Woman in Texas by Clint Richmond - 4 stars All That Fall by Kris Calvin - 3 stars Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty - 4 stars The Liar’s Club by Mary Karr - 5 stars Stiff Arm Steal by AJ Stewart   Barb read: Y is for Yesterday by Sue Grafton - 4 stars Sunburn by Laura Lipman - 3.5 stars The Couple on Cedar Close by Anna-Lou Weatherley - 3.5 stars West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge - 5 stars Dead to Her by Sarah Pinborough - 3 stars   Barb recommends the film She Said on Peacock Premium or available to buy or rent on other streaming services

Recorded on January 12, 2023 Book talk starts at 24:45 Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23 - be sure to listen until the end of the podcast when the prize winners of the Sweater KAL are announced! NEW KAL!  Come join us knitting or crocheting your projects with CABLES!  That's right, cables.  Come on over to the Cables KAL Chatter Thread to check out the rules and chat about your plans.  Dates are now until 5/15/23.     Virtual Knitting Group via Zoom   Northern California Knitting Retreat news: If you would like to attend NoCKRs at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California April 27-30, 2023, please email Tracie at [email protected] for details. KNITTING Barb finished:  1.  Get the Groove by Hinterm Stein, using Valley Yarns Northampton Worsted in the Denim Heather colorway                                                                                                                                                                          2.  Bankhead Hat #23 by Susie Gourlay, using Plymouth Encore Tweed   Tracie finished: 1.  Vanilla Socks in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set                                            2.  Davis pullover by Pam Allen, using Berroco Remix Chunky in the Pepper colorway   Barb is working on: 1.  Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Perfectly Pretty colorway                    2.  Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder using Canon Hand Dyes sock set                                        3.  Burgos vest by Rosa Pomar, using Diamond Galway Worsted Knitting Wool Highland Heather   Barb cast-on:                                                                                                                                                      1.  Koko Bean hat #3 by JudithMarieKnits, using leftover Plymouth Encore and Red Heart yarns           2. Citadel cardigan by Joji Locatelli, using Rowan RYC Wool Tweed (discontinued yarn) in the Truffle colorway Tracie cast on: 1.  Velvet Pullover (pattern discontinued) by Ewe Knit Toronto, using Western Sky Knits Merino 17 Light dyed by Kim of Western Sky Knits and Tracie 2.  Knitted Knocker in Cascade Ultra Pima   BOOKS Barb read: 1.  A Dream Life by Claire Messed - 4 stars 2.  I'm Glad my Mom Died by Jeanetter McCurdy - 4 stars 3.  Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Dicks - 5 stars   Tracie read: 1.  The Marriage Lie by Kimberly Bell - 2 stars 2.  That Time I Loved You: Stories by Marianne Leung - 4 stars 3.  Now is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson - 4 stars 4.  I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jeanette McCurdy - 5 stars 5.  God Spare the Girls by Kelsey McKinney - 4 stars 6.  Miller's Valley by Abba Quindlen - 4.5 stars 7.  The Push by Ashley Audrain - 2.5 stars Tracie and Barb recommend The Gleener for excellent, battery-free sweater shaving

Recorded on January 12, 2023 Book talk starts at 18:19 Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23 Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page Virtual get-together Zoom   Northern California Knitting Retreat news: If you would like to attend NoCKRs at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California April 27-30, 2023, please email Tracie at [email protected] for details.   KNITTING Barb finished:  2 Bankhead Hats   Tracie finished: Penny’s Bandana Cowl in Adrian Gergler for Finn in 3 colors of Plymouth Select DK 1 Knitted Knocker in Cascade Ultra Pima and Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton DK Light Trails by Suvi Sivola (SuviKnits) in Anzula Haiku in the Madam colorway   Barb is working on: Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Perfectly Pretty colorway Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder using Canon Hand Dyes sock set Get the Groove by Hinterm Stein, using Valley Yarns Northampton Worsted in the Denim Heather colorway Burgos vest by Rosa Pomar, using Diamond Galway Worsted Knitting Wool Highland Heather   Tracie cast on: Davis pullover by Pam Allen, using Berroco Remix Chunky in the Pepper colorway   And is working on: Knitted Knockers in Cascade Ultra Pima and Cloudborn Fibers Pima Cotton Vanilla Socks in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set   BOOKS Barb read: His Last Wife by Gia Pere - 3 stars Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus - 4.5 stars   Tracie read: Still Just a Geek: An Annotated Memoir by Wil Wheaton - 2 stars - 4 stars for substance and 1 star for format The Briarmarsh Close Killings by Gaynor Torrance - 3 stars Summer Sisters by Judy Blume - 2.5 stars   Tracie recommends The Gleener for excellent, battery-free sweater shaving  

Recorded on December 28, 2022 Book talk starts at 24:10 Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23   Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page 12 in 22 Chatter Thread   Virtual get-together Zoom   NoCKRs (Northern California Knitting Retreat) news: If you would like to attend NoCKRs at the St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista, California April 27-30, 2023, please email Tracie at [email protected] for details.   KNITTING   Barb finished:  1.  Collage Socks by Helen Stewart, using Ogle Design Fiber Arts Coloration Fingering in the 827 Purple colorway 2.  Solstice Mitts by Kimberly Dottie, using 2 colors of Quince & Co Chickadee in the Fjord and the Canvas color ways   Tracie finished: 1.  Guantes Jota DK Fingerless Mitts by Paola Aguirre using Newton's Yarn Country Superwash DK 2.  Mother Bear ##301 3.  Tony the Toy Box Monster by Rebecca Danger 4.  Cannon Bandana by Debbi Stone and Marcy Vandale in 3 colors of Plymouth Select DK Merino Barb is working on: 1.  Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Perfectly Pretty colorway 2.  Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder using Canon Hand Dyes sock set 3.  Get the Groove by Hinterm Stein, using Valley Yarns Northampton Worsted in the Denim Heather colorway   And has cast on: 1.  Bankhead Hat #21 by Susie Gourley 2.  Burgos vest by Rosa Pomar, using Diamond Galway Worsted Knitting Wool Highland Heather   Tracie is working on: 1.   Light Trails by SuviKnits using Anzula Haiku in the Madam colorway 2.  Vanilla Sock in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set   Tracie has cast on: 1.  Knitted Knocker in Cascade Ultra Pima   BOOKS Barb read: 1.  French Braid: A Novel by Anne Tyler - 5 stars 2.  On the Beach by Nevil Shute - 4 stars 3.  The Resort by Sue Watson - 3.5 stars 4.  The Nurse's Secret by Amanda Skenendore - 4.5 stars   Tracie read: 1.  The Perfect Family by Jacquie Underdown - 2.5 stars 2.  Unfollow Me by Charlotte Duckworth - 4 stars 3.  Don't Believe It by Charlie Done - 3 stars 4.  Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins - 4.5 stars 5.  The Texas Towner Sniper: The Terrifying True Story of Charles Whitman by Ryan Green       Barb and Tracie both recommend the documentary "Tower" on Prime Video

Recorded Friday, December 9, 2022 Book talk starts at 26:21   Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23 Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page 12 in 22 Chatter Thread   Virtual get-together Zoom   KNITTING Barb finished:  Zephyr Mark ll by Celia McAdam Cahill, using Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok Light in the Red Rock colorway   Tracie finished: Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted Granite and Berroco Vintage Cotton Candy Darling Darby by Jean Clement in Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy and  Uptown Worsted Top This! flower hat by DMC for Emily Millcreek Hat by Katy H. Carroll in Plymouth Select Worsted Merino Superwash in Violet and Lime Heather - for Lexi Trickster by Elizabeth Doherty in Plymouth Select Worsted Merino Superwash in Violet and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy   Barb is working on: Collage Socks by Helen Stewart, using Ogle Design Fiber Arts Coloration Fingering in the 827 Purple colorway Colourwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf, using a Sirdar Colourwheel in the Perfectly Pretty colorway Hermione’s Everyday Socks by Erica Leuder using Canon Hand Dyes sock set   And has cast on: Solstice Mitts by Kimberly Dottie, using 2 colors of Quince & Co Chickadee in the Fjord and the Canvas color ways Center Pointe Beanie by Benjamin Matthews, using Plymouth Encore in the Brick Red colorway Get the Groove by Hinterm Stein, using Valley Yarns Northampton Worsted in the Denim Heather colorway   Tracie is working on: Guantes Jota DK Fingerless Mitts by Paola Aguirre using Newton's Yarn Country Superwash DK  Light Trails by SuviKnits using Anzula Haiku in the Madam colorway Vanilla Sock in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set   BOOKS Barb read: Minding Miss Manners: In an Era of Fake Etiquette by Judith Martin - 4 stars The Influencer by Joyce Maynard - 3 stars Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapel - 4 stars   Tracie read: Details Are Unprintable: Wayne Longeran and the Sensational Cafe Society Murder by Allan Levine - 3 stars All That’s Bright and Gone by Eliza Nellums - 4 stars Snake Eyes: Murder in a Southern Town by Bitty Martin - 2.5 stars   Tracie recommends Life and Beth, Reboot, Reservation Dogs and What We Do in the Shadows on Hulu Abbott Elementary on ABC Loot on Apple TV+ Wellington Paranormal on HBOMax

Recorded on November 24, 2022 Book Talk starts at 22:00   Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page 12 in 22 Chatter Thread Virtual get-together Zoom   2 Giveaways  1.  The Little Pine Tree's Wish by Diane M. Howard   2.  3 skeins of Tracie's handspun Prize winners will be announced towards the end of the podcast, right before family Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down segment   KNITTING Barb finished: 1.  Mother Bear # 271 2.  Barb's Irish Hiking Hat by Blackhorse, using Plymouth Encore Tweed in the Red colorway 3.  Barb's Irish Hiking Scarf #3 by Adrian Bazilia, also using Plymouth Encore Tweed in the Red colorway 3. Will's Party Time socks using Berroco Comfort Sock in the Party Time colorway   Tracie has finished: NOTHING!  You will hear why in the "Working On" segment... Barb is working on: 1.  Zephyr Mark ll by Celia McAdam Cahill using Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok in the Red Rock colorway   Barb has cast on: 1.  Collage Socks by Helen Stewart using Olgle Design Fiber Arts Coloration Fingering in the 827 colorway 2.  Colorwheel DK 1 Ball Scarf, using Sirdar a Clourwheel in the Perfectly Pretty colorway. 3.  Hermione's Everyday Socks by Erica Leader   Tracie is working on: 1.  Vanilla Sock in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set 2.  Moon of My Life (AKA This F@&^ Sweater) by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy   Tracie has cast on: 1.  Guantes Jota DK Fingerless Mitts by Paola Aguirre using Newton's Yarn Country Superwash DK  2.  Light Trails by SuviKnits using Anzula Haiku in the Madam colorway 3.  Darling Darby by Jean Clement in Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy and Uptown Worsted   READING  Barb has finished: 1.  Missing Daughter by Rick Molina - 4 stars 2.  A Sharp Solitude by Christine Carbo - 4 stars 3.  Lucy By the Sea by Elizabeth Strout - 4 stars 4.  She Lies Close by Sharon Dowering - 3 stars 5.  Missing...and Presumed Dead by Michael Fleeman - 3 stars Tracie has finished reading: 1.  On the Beach by Nevil Shute - 3.5 stars 2.  Murder in the Family:Inside the Story of the Jersey Murders by Jeremy Josephs - 3 stars 3.  The Fiancee by Kate White - 3 stars 4.  The Drowning Kind by Jennifer McMahon - 3.5 stars 5.  Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro - 4.5 stars 6.  Passing On by Penelope Lively - 2 stars

Recorded on November 16, 2022 Barb and Tracie spend some time with Sarah Fain, one of the co-hosts of the Happier in Hollywood Podcast.  She is also a TV writer, currently writing for the Fantasy Island reboot, available on Fox TV.  Oh - and she is a knitter and a spinner! We get a peek into Sarah's very busy life, and learn lots about what it takes to be a writer in Hollywood today.  And there an abundance of laughter!  We hope you enjoy our time with Sarah as much as we did.    

Book Talk starts at 22:00 Recorded on October 28, 2022 Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23! Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page 12 in 22 Chatter Thread Virtual get-together Zoom 2 New Giveaways! 1.  The Little Pine Tree's Wish by Diane M. Howard (dinaripper on Ravelry) - a lovely children's book about a little pine tree who's wish is to become a Christmas tree! If you have a special child in your life that would enjoy this book, enter our giveaway to win an autographed copy. If you don't want to wait for the giveaway, you can order the Little Pine Tree's Wish through Amazon, Barnes and Noble or BookBaby! The winner will be announced when we record on U.S. Thanksgiving! 2.  Tracie's Handspun! I have 3 skeins of my handspun to give away: Quillen Fiber Arts Romney Top in the Queen of Tarts colorway, approximately 110 yds Greenwood Fiberworks Merino/Silk? in the Calypso colorway, approximately 192 yds Three Waters Farm 100% Rambouillet in the Racing Green colorway, approximately 161 yards Please leave a comment in the appropriate thread on our Ravelry page to enter either of these drawings!   KNITTING Barb finished: 1.  Mother Bears  268, 269, and 270 2.  Helix Hat #11 by Jessica Rose, using leftover Plymouth Encore yarns   Tracie finished: 1.  Archer in Blue by Elizabeth Doherty, having redone the bottom in Lisa Souza Deluxe Sock! in Cornflower 2.  Mother Bear #300, using Tracie's very first handspun! 3.  Kaiya Mei  hat for Emily, in gray and yellow acrylic Barb is working on: 1,  Irish Hiking Scarf by Adrian Bazilia, using Plymouth Encore Tweed in Red 2.  Socks for Will, using Berroco Comfort Sock in the Party Time colorway    And has cast on: 1.  Zephyr Mark ll by Celia McAdam Cahill (pattern not released to the public yet!) using Blue Sky Fibers Woolstok in the Red Rock colorway   Tracie continues to work on: 1.  Vanilla Sock in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set 2.  Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy   BOOKS Barb has finished: 1.  These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant - 3.5 stars 2.  The Big Lie: Election Chaos, Political Opportunism, and the State of American Politics after 2020 by Jonathan Lemire - 5 stars   Tracie read: 1.  If I Die Tonight by Alison Gaylin - 4 stars 2.  The Trespasser (Dublin Murder Squad #6) by Tana French - 4 stars 3.  A Family Business: A Chilling Tale of Greed as One Family Commits Unspeakable Crimes Agains the Dead by Ken England - 3 stars

Recorded Wednesday, 12, 2022 Book talk begins at 25:30 Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23! Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page 12 in 22 Chatter Thread Virtual get-together Zoom   KNITTING Barb finished: Mother Bear #267 Choose Your Gnome Adventure by Sarah Schira Cristollo by Knitting for Breakfast   Tracie finished: Choose Your Gnome Adventure by Sarah Schira Davis Sweater by Pam Allen Mother Bears 298 and 299   Barb is working on: Irish Hiking Scarf by Adrian Bazilia, using Plymouth Encore Tweed in Red Socks for Will, using Berroco Comfort Sock in the Party Time colorway    And has cast on: Stashbusting Helix Hat by Jessica Rose in the same yarns (all Plymouth Encore) I used for my Choose Your Gnome Adventure Mother Bear #268   Tracie once again started working on: Archer by Elizabeth Doherty - redoing the bottom in Lisa Souza Deluxe Sock! in Cornflower   She continues to work on: Vanilla Sock in Canon Hand Dyes William Merino in Waterworld Sock Set Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy Cinna Top by Ksenia Naidyon, in 5 colors of Alchemy Silken Straw     BOOKS Barb read: On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass - 4 stars Olive, Again by Elizabeth Strout - 5 stars Fly Girl by Ann Hood - 4 stars Mishap or Murder?: True tales of mysterious deaths and disappearances by Eileen Ormsby - 3 stars   Tracie read: A Taste for Murder by Burl Barer and Frank C. Garadot - 3 stars The Ink Black Heart by Robert Galbraith - 4 stars   Tracie recommends the Murdaugh Murders Podcast  

Recorded Thursday, September 22, 2022 Book talk begins at 18:55 Sweater KAL - 9/1/22 - 1/15/23! Sweater KAL Chatter - rules are at the top of each page 12 in 22 Chatter Thread Lambtown 2022 Virtual get-together Zoom KNITTING Barb finished: Mother Bears 264, 265, 266 Polobello by Josee Paquin, using Juniper Moon Zooey in the Sloop colorway Bankhead Hat #20 by Susie Gourley, using scrap yarn Tracie finished Mother Bears 292 - 297 Barb continues to work on: Irish Hiking Scarf by Adrian Bazilia, using Plymouth Encore Tweed in the Red colorway And has cast on: Socks for Will, using Berroco Comfort Sock in the Party Time colorway Choose Your Gnome Adventure MKAL by Sarah Schira, using Plymouth Encore in the Red, Blue, and Cream colorways Cristallo pullover sweater by Knitting for Breakfast, using Valley Yarns Granville, in the Neutral and Mineral Green color ways Tracie continues to work on: Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy Cinna Top by Ksenia Naidyon, in 5 colors of Alchemy Silken Straw Tracie has Cast On: Davis pullover by Pam Allen, using Berroco Remix Chunky in the Pepper colorway Choose Your Gnome Adventure MKAL in Serendipidye, The Dye Project, and Madelinetosh Silk/Merino Vanilla Sock in Canon Hand Dyes in the William Merino Waterworld Sock Set   BOOKS Barb read: The Weight of Night (Glacier Park Mystery #3) by Christine Carbo - 4.5 stars An Almost Perfect Murder by Gary C. King - 3 stars The Cuban Affair by Nelson DeMille - 3 stars Tracie read: The English Teacher by Lily King - 3 stars The Murderer's Son by Joy Ellis by Joy Ellis - 3 starts The Writing Class by Jincy Willitt - 3.5 stars A Carnival of Snackery (Diaries 2003 - 2020) by David Sedaris - 3.5 stars      

Recorded Tuesday August 30, 2022 Book Talk Starts at 15:12   Our 2022 MOTHER BEAR KAL ends September 1! Mother Bear Chatter Thread Mother Bear FO Thread   12 in 22 Chatter Thread   Lambtown 2022   Virtual get-together Zoom   KNITTING    Barb finished: Mother Bear 263 Goth Kitty Socks, using Knitpicks Felici in the Goth Kitty colorway Hot Springs Willow Hat by NichKnit Designs, using Berroco Vintage Worsted in the Yukon Green colorway   Tracie finished Mother Bear 291 Zephyr Mark II by Celia Cahill test knit in Malabrigo Susurro in Teal Feather   Barb continues to work on: Polobello by Josee Paquin, using Juniper Moon Zooey in the Sloop colorway   And has cast on: Irish Hiking Scarf by Adrian Bazilia, using Plymouth Encore Tweed in the Red colorway   Tracie continues to work on: Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy Cinna Top by Ksenia Naidyon, in 5 colors of Alchemy Silken Straw   BOOKS Barb read: Pure Murder by Corey Mitchell - 4 stars Small Towns, Dark Secrets: Social Media, Reality TV and Murder in Rural America by Eileen Ormsby - 3 stars The Woman at 72 Derry Lane by Carmel Harrington - 4 stars When the Moon Turns to Blood: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell, Wild Faith and the End Times by Leah Sottile - 4 stars   Tracie read: When the Moon Turns to Blood: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell, and a Story of Murder, Wild Faith, and End Times by Leah Sottile - 4 1/2 stars Don’t Cry Now by Joy Fielding - 2 stars Housebroken: Admissions of an Untidy Life by Laurie Notaro - 4 stars Real Life Organizing: Clean and Clutter-Free in 15 Minutes a Day by Cassandra Aarson aka Clutterbug A Cupboard Full of Coats by Yvette Edwards   And did not finish:  Nine Years Gone by Chris Culver   Barb has been enjoying a re-watch of Survivor, Season 1 on Prime Video

Recorded Monday, August 15, 2022 Book talk begins at 20:00   2022 MOTHER BEAR KAL Mother Bear Chatter Thread Mother Bear FO Thread   12 in 22 Chatter Thread   Lambtown 2022   Virtual get-together Zoom   On Episode 252, we will have Sarah Fain, TV writer, knitter and spinner with us!     KNITTING   Tracie finished:   1.  Mother Bears 287 - 290 2. Tracie's Hoodie Shawl Cardigan by Susanne Sommer, using Color Notes Yarn Pure Sport in Clear Red, Western Sky Knits Willow Superwash Sport, and madelinetosh Pashmina in Jasper   Barb finished: 1.  Mother Bear #261 & 262 2.  Barb's Bankhead hat #19 by Susie Gorlay, using Knit Picks Felici Worsted in the Goth Kitty colorway 3.  Test Knit for Zephyr Mark II by Celia McAdam Cahill, using Knit Picks Hawthorne Tonal Handprint in the Springfield colorway Tracie continues to work on: Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy   Tracie cast on: Cinna Top by Ksenia Naidyon, in 5 colors of Alchemy Silken Straw   Barb continues to work on: 1.  That’s My Jam by Steve Fegert - using a kit from Leading Men Fiber Arts 2.  Goth Kitty Socks, using Knitpicks Felici in the Goth Kitty colorway   Barb has cast on: 1.  Hot Springs Willow Hat by NichKnit Designs, using Berroco Vintage Worsted, in the Yukon Green colorway 2.  Polobello tee by Josee Paquin using Juniper Moon Farm Zooey in the Sloop colorway   BOOKS Tracie read: 1.  Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau - 5 stars 2.  The Silent Quarry by Cheryl Rees-Price - 2.5 stars 3.  The Trivia Night by Ali Lowe - 4.5 stars 4.  The Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friends Who Were There by Jenna Fischer & Angela Kinsey - 4.5 stars 5. For the Thrill of It: Leopold, Loeb and the Murder that Shocked Chicago by Simon Baatz - 3 stars   Barb read: 1.   Beyond the Crushing Waves by Lilly Mirren - 4 stars 2.  The Lying Club by Annie Ward - 3.5 stars 3.  In Her Eyes by Sarah Alderson - 3 stars 4.  The Clover Girls by Viola Shipman - 4 stars   Tracie recommends Get Organized With The Home Edit on Netflix  

Recorded Wednesday, July 27, 2022 Book talk starts at 25:00   2022 MOTHER BEAR KAL   Mother Bear Chatter Thread Mother Bear FO Thread   12 in 22 Chatter Thread   Lambtown 2022   Virtual get-together Zoom   KNITTING Tracie finished: Leave Gnome Stone Unturned by Sarah Schira Mother Bears 279-286 Lihan Sweater by Imke von Nathausius in Berroco Pure Pima   Barb finished: Mother Bear #255 - 260 Ribs and Wave Poncho by Great Yarns! Using Cascade Superwash Wave in the 106 Blue colorway Irma Hat by Aneta Gasiorowksa using blue Moon Fiber Arts Gaea in the Falcon’s Eye colorway - left over from my May(be) Queen pullover   Tracie continues to work on: Hoodie Shawl Cardigan by Susanne Sommer in Color Notes Yarn Pure Sport in Clear Red, Western Sky Knits Willow Superwash Sport, and madelinetosh Pashmina in Jasper Zephyr Mark II by Celia Cahill test knit in Malabrigo Susurro in Teal Feather Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy   Barb continues to work on: That’s My Jam by Steve Fegert - using a kit from Leading Men Fiber Arts Venturer’s Vest by Knitwise Design in Cloudborn Fibers Superwash Merino Worsted Twist in the Taupe Heather colorway   She has cast on: Mother Bear #261 Goth Kitty Socks, using Knitpicks Felici in the Goth Kitty colorway Zephyr Mark II Test knit by Celia McAdam Cahill, using Knit Picks Hawthorne Kettle Dye in the Springfield colorway   BOOKS   Tracie read: The Dearly Departed by Elinor Lipman - 3 stars God’s Nobodies: Misguided Faith and Murder in the Life of One American Family by Mark Obbie - 2 1/2 stars Heart Seizure by Bill Fitzhugh - 3 stars Happy-Go-Lucky by David Sedaris - 4 stars The Disappearance of Trudy Solomon by Marcy McCready - 4 stars An Unfinished Canvas: A True Story of Love, Family, and Murder in Nashville by Michael Glasgow - 3 stars Skies of Ash by Rachel Howzell Hall - 4 stars   Barb read:   The Other Mrs. by Mary Kubica - 3 stars The Night She Went Missing by Kristen Bird - 3 stars The Familiar Dark by Amy Engel - 3 stars Mortal Fall (Glacier Mystery #2) by Christine Carbo - 4 stars Cross Her Heart (Bree Tagert #1) by Melinda Leigh - 3 stars The Good Son by Jacquelyn Mitchard - 3 stars The House Across the Street by Melanie Jones Brownrigg - 3 stars Cul de sac by Joy Fielding - 3 stars The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore - 4 stars Buried in the Sky: The Extraordinary Story of the Sherpa Climbers on K2’s  Deadliest Day by Peter Zuckerman - 4 stars The Long Weekend by Gilly Macmillan - 4 stars   Barb talked about her diagnosis and treatment for microscopic colitis 

Recorded on July 5, 2022     While Americans overwhelmingly support the right of an individual to make their own decisions about abortion, unfortunately, that right is no longer protected everywhere in the U.S. We encourage you to SPEAK UP, TAKE CARE, and SPREAD THE WORD! Podvoices.help - Here are abortion advocacy links.     This episode was recorded with our friends, Eileen and Shelley while on vacation in Montana.   Mother Bear Chatter Thread Mother Bear FO Thread 12 in 22 Chatter Thread Lambtown 2022 Virtual get-together Zoom   KNITTING Eileen is knitting: * a sweater that is utilizing both the Zephyr cardigan pattern by Celia McAdam Cahill, and the Diamond Back Top pattern by Kira Dulaney *  Aisling by Marie Wallin   Shelley talked about her love for designing her own patterns.     Tracie talked about: * Ciara Top by Laura Aylor * Hoodie Shawl Cardigan by Susanne Summer   Barb talked about knitting: * her difficulty with a dropped stitch in her Venturer's Vest by Knitwise Design * Test Knit Zephyr Mark II by Celia McAdam Cahill   BOOKS Shelley talked about her favorite author as she was growing up, E. B. White   Eileen discussed 3 books: *  The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Dideon *  Find Her by Lisa Gardner *  Trustee From the Toolroom by Nevil Shute     Tracie talked about: *   Office BFFs: Tales of The Office from Two Best Friends Who Were There by Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey *  Home Stretch by Graham Norton   Barb discussed: *  Broken Harbor by Tana French   We also discussed the TV series, Escape to the Country    

Recorded on June 10, 2022 Book talk begins at 28:00 Mother Bear Chatter Thread Mother Bear FO Thread 12 in 22 Chatter Thread Lambtown 2022 Virtual get-together Zoom   KNITTING Barb’s Finished Objects: Mother Bear #248 Forager Lite Tracie’s Finished Objects Mother Bears #277, 278, 274 Never Not Gnoming Gnomes #25 & 26 Great Falls Barb is working on: That's My Jam Ribs and Wave Poncho Venturer's Vest Irma Hat Barb cast on:   Mother Bear #255 Tracie is working on: Ciara Moon of My Life Tracie has cast on: Hoodie Shawl Cardigan Leave Gnome Stone Unturned   BOOKS Barb has finished: The Other Husband - 3 stars Cold Blooded: A True Story about Love, Lies, Greed and Murder - 3 stars The Night She Went Missing - 3 stars The Night Always Comes Tracie has finished: No One is Talking About This - 3.5 Stars Everybody’s Best Friend: The True Story of a Marriage that Ended in Murder - 4 stars How to Raise and Elephant - 4 stars Never Saw Me Coming - 4.5 stars

Recorded on may 23, 2022 Book Talk starts at 24:00 Virtual get-together via Zoom on Saturdays, 12 noon  PST - Details here   Our annual Mother Bear KAL begins June 1!  Any Mother Bear that you have knit or crocheted in 2021 is eligible to post in our FO Thread.  One post per bear please.  Please see all the rules and participate in the Chatter Thread!  #2022MBKAL2KLC   12 in 22 - Unofficial KAL/challenge to knit 12 (or however many you want) sweaters in 2022. Details here! KNITTING Barb finished: Hipster shawl by Joji Locatelli, using Malabrigo Rios in the 880 Hojas colorway. Mother Bears 251, 252, 253   Tracie finished Mother Bears 272, 273, 275 and 276   Barb continues working on: Ribs and Wave Poncho by Great Yarns! Using Cascade Superwash Wave in the 106 Blue colorway That's My Jam shawl by Steve Fegert using a kit she bought from Leading Men Fiber Arts forager lite by Isabel Kraemer, using Inner Yarn Zen Superwash Fingering in the Lupine colorway   She has cast on: Venturer’s Vest by Knitwise Design in Cloudborn Fibers Superwash Merino Worsted Twist in the Taupe Heather colorway Irma Hat by Aneta Gasiorowksa using Blue Moon Fiber Arts Gaea Sport in the Falcon’s Eye colorway - left over from my May(be) Queen pullover   Tracie has cast on: Great Falls by Nataliya Polyakov in Scheepjes Whirl in Jade Jim Jam Ciara by Laura Aylor in Araucania Caña Ruca   She continues working on: Moon of My Life by Nadia Crétin-Léchenne adapted by Celia McAdam Cahill for a man in worsted weight yarn - in Universal Yarns Uptown Worsted  in Granite and Berroco Vintage in Cotton Candy     BOOKS The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner - 4 stars Be Careful Who You Love: Inside the Michael Jackson Case by Diane Dimond - 4 stars We Thought We Knew You: A Terrifying True Story of Secrets, Betrayal, Deception, and Murder by M. William Phelps - 3 stars Let’s Not Do That Again by Grant Ginder - 4 stars She Kills Me: True Stories of History’s Deadliest Women by Jennifer Wright - 2.5 stars   BOOKS Caul Baby by Morgan Jenkins Wordslut: A Feminist Guide to Taking Back the English Language by Amanda Montell Finders Keepers by Belinda Bauer Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin Murder in St Augustine: The Mysterious Death of Athalia Ponsell Lindsley by Elizabeth Randall Tracie recommends watching Jinxx Monsoon as Judy Garland on RuPaul’s Drag Race All-Stars 7.  NSFW or for those with delicate sensibilities!