Hello Caffeinated Knitters!

I'm so excited to be a part of this swap! I love coffee, I love knitting, ergo this should be a great time!

My name is Tracey. I'm currently blogless, though if I get a blog up and running I'll certainly post it. I'm working on one, I just need a) more free time and b) courage. Wonder if no one reads it? Or, worse yet, wonder if lots of people read it? Ack.

So a little about me: I knit. I drink coffee. But you already knew that. Duh. I just drink coffee now. I used to live it. I worked for a coffee company, as their Real Estate Representative. Basically I drove around all hopped up on caffeine looking for new locations in which to put a store. N0, it was not Starbucks. A little coffee company called Caribou Coffee. Good coffee, good people (for the most part). It was enjoyable work but I wanted to get paid more. (Which I do now, thankfully.)

I recently got back into knitting and I am loving it! I have way too many projects on the needles, as they say, but I'm learning this is not an oddity. I'll post some pics (can we do that on here?) when I complete a few more projects. There's something so satisfying about a finished project. A "wow - I made this" type of a feeling. Very satisfying. I think it's called pride.

I have a (soon-to-be) husband, a (soon-to-be) step-daughter and two little doggies, so my life is quite busy. Oh, and, I'm going to be an aunt! My (soon-to-be) SIL is having a little baby boy. I have many, many things planned for this little guy.

I'm looking forward to meeting some knitters. I have far too few knitters in my life.

Yet Another Intro

I see lots of names I know and some I haven't met yet! I am looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones.

I wasn't involved in the first Knitter's Coffee Swap, but when I found out about this, I knew I had to join. My true loves: Coffee and knitting. What more could someone want? I'm so glad I made it in and I think I got in just under the wire.

My name is Adelle, I am 51, widowed for five years, have two kids still at home, one a severely disabled teenage son. I am a writer by profession but am on a hiatus, considering early retirement, and just keeping myself quite busy.

I'm not sure what all will be involved in the swap here, but I know the people (either personally or by reputation) enough to know this will be a lot of fun. I love swaps, not just because of the cool stuff you get and send, but because of the incredibly special people you get to meet. That is the best part of all of it.

My blog is at http://www.windchimesanddragonflies.com. I have others but I am revamping, associating with a network and doing some things I want to do rather than things I have to do in order to keep the "work plate" full. I find that rather relaxing! My blog is fairly new so I have a lot of catching up to do.

Oh, I also own the Enchanted Sweater Knit Along blog, so if you would like to join in with us on that, we would love to have you. It is at http://enchantedkal.blogspot.com - it is my "dream sweater" and although I have been playing catch up with some other things to get more UFOs into FOs, am thus am a bit behind, I will be devoting myself to that soon.

Looking forward to all the activity here and getting to know you all!

Adelle

Another Southern Greeting!

Hi all, I just got my invite this morning! I settled in here this morning with my cuppa joe and am casting on for my lastest project, the Turtleneck Tube Vest from Stephanie Japel's latest book Fitted Knits. Go check out the KAL.
I am from TN and have only been knitting since last June. I bought a kit to learn to knit while making a baby hat and booties. My next project after that was about a dozen cable purses for Christmas presents! (They're addicting!) Since then I have made 3 sweaters and have two more on the needles, with hundreds on my To-Do list! I learned to crochet at an early age, so when I was learning to knit I found that continental knitting was similar to crochet in how you held the yarn. After that it was easy and now I'm a continental knitter!
I am so glad I got in this round! I just love meeting new people from all over the world. Come on over and check out my blog!

Just to Clarify....

When you get you're Blogger invite, that is also your Coffee Swap invite, so once you've gotten that, you're in!

Glad to see so many contest entries already!!!

Hello!

I'm Jenn from Arkansas, coffee-lover and knitter. I'm currently getting my MA in English, so the coffee drinking really helps me study, and the knitting keeps me relaxed!

I'm so excited that I managed to squeak into this swap--I was thrilled that someone thought to combine two of the best things ever into a fun swap. :) My boyfriend mocks me for my coffee obsessions--I haven't bought an espresso maker (though I have one of the stovetop variety), but I have many other implements of coffee creation, down to a milk frother.

I picked up knitting in college and have been steadily building my skills...my next stop? Socks. I've become obsessed. I really, really, really want to learn to knit socks. And I will--as soon as I finish the other projects that are on my needles... (Oh, socks).

I have two blogs, one is my knitting group blog The Kniterati and the other is my literature blog Poems, Prose, or Parody. Feel free to pop by!

Wyoming Hello

Hi everyone! I am so glad to be here. I just discovered swaps after joining tons of KAL's. I've been knitting most of my life, with a gap in there to raise a family, work, take care of elderly parents. You get the picture. The proverbial piece of meat in between two pieces of bread. Sandwich generation anyone? Coffee is not just an indulgence for me. It is a necessity. My DH says I should really take it in the arm. Would save time grinding all those beans. My other loves are knitting and chocolate, not necessarily in that order. This is my first Coffee Swap, so can't wait for things to kick into gear.
My hometown is Cody, Wyoming. Just a gorgeous place 45 miles from the Eastern entrance to Yellowstone. Truly God's country. The nice part is there is a gourmet coffee shop here, with little coffee kiosks all over town. Whoohoo. No withdrawal for this kid. Can't wait to meet my pal. Happy knitting to all!

Hey everybody!

Hi y'all!I am LaVerna from Texas and this is my second go around.I love to knit and drink cawfee.I had such a great partner last time.Deborah.She's a great gal from NJ.You should check out her blog.She is a funny lady!Whoever gets here for a partner will be truly blessed.
I just wanted to say Hi to everyone returnong and new.Special thanks to our hostess Knittymama for deciding to do another round for all us sleep deficient,hyper caffeinated,just a couple more rows and then I will go to bed knitters!

Woo Hoo!

I'm pretty excited! Like some of the rest of you, this is my first swap. What fun. I'm from Boise, Idaho and, as my blog name suggests, I re-found knitting after a many-year hiatus. I learned to knit when I was fourteen or so and knit quite a bit right through high school and college. But after our children came along, the knitting sort of sneaked off to boxes and bins in the garage.
Hubby (frequently referred to as the Curmudgeon) and I have been married almost 36 years, and during that time I've pursued many creative outlets - everything from batik and cross-stitch to quilting and crochet. A few years ago I suffered a severe depression and spent way too much time vegging out. As I began to work my way back to the light, so to speak, I needed something to do that didn't take up much room. (I wasn't considering the possibility of serious addiction and stash building.) Knitting fit the bill and I decided to start with some socks, which was ironic because I had no idea there was a sock knitting revival going on. I was surprised, when I went to the LYS, that they had so many sock patterns and sock yarns.
Soon after that I discovered knitting blogs and all the other great resources available to knitters on the Internet. All those free patterns! All those great places to shop! And all those knitters out there sharing their knitting experiences with us all. All those books about knitting!
I'm one of those people cursed with startitis - I love to start new projects. But finish all of them? Not so much... Lately I have managed to complete a few things but I still have plenty of projects languishing on needles, stashed here and there, waiting to be taken up again.
And coffee? There's nothing better than a cup of hot, fresh coffee at hand and knitting in the hands. I'm looking forward to meeting my partner and reading more from all the rest of you.

What a day!

Hey everyone. So glad that I was able to jump onto the "ride" before it shut down!

I've been knitting for 9, or so, years. Not an expert but not a beginner. Somewhere in the wonderful in between. LOVE sock yarn - all of those colors make you want to scoop them up and hug them.

I'm also a coffee nut. We've got our own espresso machine and make lattes almost every day.

Well, gotta go and do some yarn shopping - it's my birthday! DH said I can do whatever I want and I aim to do it!

See you on the blogs!

I Made It!!!!

I'm sooo excited about being a part of this swap. I confess, I have 3 addictions, knitting , coffee and swaps/exchanges. It's a wonderful way to meet lots of nice people who have a common interest.

I started knitting about 2 years ago-I would say I'm an advanced beginner. I love learning new things everyday. I'm currently in the SP10, Discloth KAL, Magic Yarn Ball Swap, Book Swap, and Tote Exchange. Through my swaps and exchanges, I'm learning that there are a lot of creative people out there.

I am married and have a son in college. Now that he is away in school, I can focus more on perfecting my knitting.

In a nutshell--- that's me!

Another Greeting from the South

YAY - I'm so excited to get in this round! I live in Flowery Branch, Georgia which is between Atlanta and Gainesville, GA. Its a small little town that is beginning to feel the big city suburbs encroching on it. Which can be good and bad. I'm hoping for good. ANYWAY . . . . Let me introduce myself.

I've been knitting for about a year and a half and loving it. My husband now does research when we travel. Where are the knitting stores AND Starbucks on the route we are taking. GRIN!! What a great man!!! As much as I love Starbucks for being everywhere, I also love to find those off the wall independent coffee stores too. And actually, I guess I like my yarn stores the same way.

My mother taught me to knit the way my father's mother taught her to knit. And she started me of with a scarf and she taught me to cast on, knit a row and then purl a row. I think as a result, I have no fear of purl. ;) I LOVE TO KNIT. I've done other hobbies over the years, but so far this one has stuck on the longest. I think because it has so much variety and at the same time continuety. (I spelled that one wrong)

I had the goal of making this a learn how to do socks and lace year, but a minor car accident has put that to a "Screeching" halt. And in a way, its a blessing. I am fine, but x-rays show that I am developing arthritis in my neck, so I must make sure to not do marathon knitting sessions and take many breaks along the way. Which is not a bad thing, just kind of makes the thought of doing shawls or long term projects even longer and so, I'm going to table those plans until we get everything under control. Then, watch out!!!

Enough of me blathering, I'm just excited and ready to get to know new friends. And try new coffee!

Yay! I've arrived!

Hello to all! Thank you for inviting me! What a geat day...my first blog experience, first swap, first affiliation with a knitting group...hard to believe I made it to 50 before I did any of these things. It's so very exciting! I've come back to knitting after a 40 year hiatus (my dear departed Grama taught me when I was a child). My daughter talked me into a beginners class last year and there's been no stopping since. The two of us have spent some good quality time sitting and knitting in my cramped little sewing room-turned knitting lounge. I like to knit socks with intricate cuff patterns and have been combing the internet for ever-more-challenging designs. Thank you to all who are feeding my need. I'm a quilter, crocheter, sew garments and read a good novel a few pages at a time (fewer since the yarn and needles snuck into my life). I'm having some great laughs right now with Yarn Harlot's Cast Off. My adoring husband and I have 4 adult children, 2 grandchildren, 2 dogs and 5 granddogs. I'm so excited about the coffee swap! There's nothing like a good strong cup on a beautiful sunny morning like this one. Thanks again for inviting me, I'm honored, truly! Have a great day! PS: Glad the little one is feeling better.

Checking in, happy to be here!

Hi Everyone!

I got my invite and wanted to check in to say hi! I wasn't in round one but I love coffee and am psyched to be participating in round two! Have a great weekend!!!
-Erin (http://curlyknitter.wordpress.com)

hello...

Hi everyone, I'm prettyknit, I have re-discover the joy of knitting two year ago after being apart from the world of knitting for 15 years. I 'm totally addicted this time, mostly because of the access of internet, I can communicate with all the knitters around the world and all the information about knitting. Knitting will not be along again!! and the fun of swap!!
Beside knitting, coffee is my other addiction, I have at least one coffee a day, mostly ice coffee on the work day, but Sunday morning, my husband made me a special coffee mix with hot chocolate..is heaven.
here are a few button I made..hope yours like it.

That's a lot of coffee lovin' kniters

The invites are out. If for some reason you think you signed up on time but didn't get an invite please let me know. I'm starting to fall asleep at the computer and I'm afraid I missed a couple of you. Partners will start going out soon.

You're all so kind with your get well wishes for Knittybaby. I think his fever has broken, thank goodness. He's pretty much slept on my lap all day...

I've enjoyed all your introductions, keep them coming! This will be a great swap!

One more knitter joins the group!

I am thrilled to be one of the "chosen"! After all, what could be better than knitting,coffee, and other knitters?? After finding out about this wonderful group through a friend (who has fewer restrictions on her Internet during the day), I promptly decided that if there was coffee and yarn involved, I was in! I am one of the few remaining blogless knitters, yet am overcome by the feeling that by the time our coffee swap is finished, I will no longer be among the land of the blogless. While relatively new to knitting, I live with a Master Knitter (almost) so my knitting, and my storage space are continuously challenged.

I'm in? AWESOME!!!

I can't believe it I got in!!! I am so excited!!! I have been obsessed with knitting since December 2005. I currently have learned how to do a magic 8 cast on and am making my first pair of Cookie A socks. As far as coffee I've always loved it. I drink the fully caffinated. I love tasting different blends. One of my favorites is Country harvest blend by Carolina coffee company. It has roasted pecans in it, and makes me think of the fall in the Carolina's. I have just started working after being out of work for a year. It's difficult trying to find time for everything and arranging my schedule.

Greetings from the Sooner State!

Hello! I'm Laura and I'm from Oklahoma. What could be better than knitting and coffee in the same swap?! I've been knitting for a little over a year, and drinking coffee since I was in middle school. I love to knit with natural fibers, but I'm not totally against acrylics. Typically if I use acrylics it's in a blend though. After knitting with wool, Red Heart yarn just seems so brittle. I can't work with it. When it comes to coffee, I like it many different ways, but always fresh. We have a grinder so I prefer beans. I know I sound like an addict, but there is absolutely nothing that is more calming than a cup of coffee. I'm so excited to be a part of this round!

Hi from Saskatchewan

Hi there, I'm Vicki from Sask.... Hmmm... lets see... I've been crocheting since I was about 7 or 8, my mom taught me, she also tried to teach me to knit but just couldn't get it at the time... it wasn't until a couple of yrs ago I taught myself, and have been unstoppable ever since. Then just because I didn't have enough on my plate, my friend came over with her 2 spinning wheels to teach me how to spin... all it took was 2 lessons and I bought my own wheel! At the moment I'm crocheting chair booties for a couple ladies in town... I have a sock on the circ, and some roving from copper moose on the bobbin...

Ahhh, the life of a fiber addict...lol

HURRAH!!!

This is Char from Central Wisconsin. I used to crochet many years ago and then got really busy with my life and slowly gave it up. My daughter, AnnK (She is the one who brought this swap to my attention.) started knitting a year ago and seeing all her yarn and her projects, I just had to take crocheting up again. I have only finished a few things, but one that I am really proud of is a small bridal bag that I designed. It turned out really nice so I made a smaller one for the flower girl. So Cool!!!!

I have a few works in progress, a bag that will be felted, a blanket for my great niece and hopefully a lot of projects in my future.

And this is the first time I joined any kind of swap. I am so excited because this is a new adventure for me, crocheting again, starting a blog, meeting new people, seeing other's projects and enjoying coffee.

Char

I'm In!

I'm in the Knitters' Coffee Swap - Yah! My name is Elizabeth and I've been knitting since I was a small girl. I was taught by my grandma and then I stopped for about 20 years. Now I'm knitting again, mostly scarves, shawls, hats and the occasional poorly done sweater. I don't follow patterns well (actually, not at all) so that could be a part of my problem but I am yarn obsessed. A girl can never have enough yarn, especially anything wool and/or mohair. I don't spin (yet) and I'm going to take a look at a knitting machine tomorrow so who knows what's in store for the future.
I love coffee, especially dark roasts and some flavored coffees, but unfortunately, due to sensitive tummy, I have to drink it decaffeinated. But they are starting to come up with some decent decafs - the ones from Starbucks and Coffee AM aren't too bad. I am on the search for the perfect decaf. Some say why bother if you have to drink decaf but if you love coffee, you're not going to stop drinking it - you adjust and look for other ways to enjoy it. Like coffee-flavored chocolate or coffee ice cream, anyone?
I am also a loose tea fan - in fact I own my own (very) small tea blending business and have a line of my own blends.
Cheers,
Elizabeth

A Southern Greeting: Hey Y'all!

;) Sorry, I couldn't resist. My name is Jessica and I live in Alabama. I've been knitting for about 2 years and I'm totally addicted. I just got through with the Knitter's Treat Exchange and I had a great time shopping for my buddy, Sharon. By the way, I think she's talking about me in her post. Every time I visit her blog, I find another swap to join! lol Anyway, I've been drinking coffee since I was a toddler. My grandfather would spoon feed it to me out of his coffee cup. Then, promptly send me home, hyped up and bouncing off the walls. lol I'm really excited about this swap because, let's face it...coffee and knitting go perfectly together. Especially on those late nights when you're just determined to finish something! Come visit me on my blog, Alabama Fiber Dreams, and say hi.

Hullo from Atlanta!

*Taking sips of my fresh cup* Hullo there fellow addicts - caffeine and knitting :D

Just wanted to say hello - I'm currently living in Atlanta, Georgia, and often say it's "by way of Colorado, New Jersey, South Carolina and Alaska" because I've lived in those places far more than here in life :) I learned to knit about 2 years ago, but only got seriously bitten by the bug this past Christmas! I LOVE knitting felted bags (hosting a swap, too!) and am currently also on a dishcloth and must learn socks and wanna make a tank top and have a list so long I could knit for life list!

I have loved coffee since I was a little girl. When we still lived in Germany around my grandparents, my family all used to call me "Kaffee Tante" because my Opa would give me sugar cookies dipped into coffee with cream and sugar. By high school, I was a regular at our local espresso joint, and loved their specialty mocha breves with a nice mix of creme de menthe and Irish Creme. And now, I am a lover of just good beans. Plain, unflavored, high quality coffee.

My favorites are kona and peaberries, but I also love Blue Mountain, most mocha javas, and almost any great bean or blend. For commercial joints, I like Caribou, and I'll drink Starbucks in a pinch ;) Most often at home, I have some various beans I pick up at Trader Joes.

And mostly I'm excited to be a part of this and meet some folks who share both of my passions!

Oh, am I excited!

I was disappointed that I didn't know about Round One until everyone was receiving their packages. What a treat to be able to be apart of Round Two! Taught to knit as a child, I have been knitting longer than I have been drinking coffee (regular + decaf.). I am decidedly a Process Knitter. Currently I'm working through a sock obsession. I have a blog to which I do not post (but am no longer blogless). Perhaps the swap will jumpstart the blog again. Sock On-Knit Me

Hello from California!

I won't say sunny as there are rain clouds massing over the Pacific but I can still see the occasional patch of blue sky! My name is Diane and I live between San Francisco and San Jose on "The Peninsula". I've been knitting for a few years and doing all manner of needlework and embroidery for as long as I can remember. My german parents instilled a love of kaffe and I'm hoping for an international pal. Viele gruesse an alle! Feel free to visit my blog for the ongoing trials and tribulations of a sock-addicted knitter.

Cheers!

nectar of the gods

Hello swappers! I am Becka and I am a full time textile geek (no really!) I coordinate education programs for an art center and dabble in a dozen other things. I learned to knit when I was 12 from a Norwegian lady who told me she was showing me the European way to knit (aka continental style) which was so much better than the American way. I was very impressed by that for many years. My first lesson had me making a hooded sweater for a 5 inch teddy bear and learning to cable. I took a knitting hiatus from age 12 1/2 until about 5 years ago. I like my coffee with lots of milk but no sugar and the best coffee I ever had was ground in an antique hand crank coffee grinder and made in a stove top drip coffee pot.

Hello

So excited I got in...my name is Cheryl and I too have started the online knitting experience just since the fall. I am so deeply moved to know there are so many knitters out there as I seemed to be a lone knitter for the 40 years I have been doing so. Learned as a mere child not yet 50, LOL...I knit and drink coffee so this will be fun. Looking forward to getting know you all.

in which a musician needs coffee

Hi, all. I'm Kate, I'm a musician, and coffee is the juice of life. I always say, Starbucks makes me a nicer person. (I'm not ashamed to admit it, I love everything about the S'bucks culture, right down to the little green aprons). That said, I love the little indi-roaster places too. I travel a lot for work, and right after I check out an area's LYS, I turn on the radar for the coolest coffee place in town. I've been knitting for almost five years now, getting a lot more adventurous since being inspired by all of you online knitty folks. (I only discovered this whole online community last year!). I'm excited to do another swap... what a fun idea to link knitting with coffee for an exchange! I always like "meeting" more knitters, so come on over and say hi at miss ewe knits!

All About Me

Hmm, what's to tell? My name is Sharon I live in Pennsylvania and technically I have been knitting since I was 9 and have been drinking coffee before that since I am half Colombian on my Mother's side and yes, I have been there many times but not recently. Sí, hablo español pero no bastantes. I am swap/exchange addicted but knitting isn't my only passion. I am an avid soap and lotion maker as well. Just finished the KTE with one of the bestest buds ever, Jessi, who one of you might be lucky to get. You can always check out my blog or my web site but watch out you might find out about more of these swaps and get sucked in. It is contagious. ;-)

More Intros

Hello everyone. I'm very excited about being accepted to the Knitters' Coffee Swap. I've only started going online to meet knitters this year. I adore the idea of a coffee and knitting swap. It's perfect! Funny that after almost a year of living in San Diego, I feel closer to alot of the online knitting folks. Anywho - I look forward to learning more about everyone and reading your blogs

Introduction!

Well, Knittymama said to post an introduction once we got the invite and signed up for the blog, so here I am! My name is Annie. I will be 27 here in the next couple of weeks and I've been knitting for about 5 years. I've loved coffee for even longer! I also do some crochet, spin, weave, dye, and occassionally make cold process soap. Um, I think that's it! Oh yeah, my new doggie Chloe says hi! =D

Invites are coming

Poor Knittybaby is still on the outs. I'm thinking Roseola, as we're on 72 hours of fever now and he's got just the tiniest rash on his cheeks. I'm working on invites while he naps on my lap, in between trying to keep a bored Little Man occupied.

Right now I've got about 20 invites sent out. Everyone should have their invite by Friday night, so if you don't hear back from me then, drop me a note. If you were in Coffeeswap One, you'll just get an e-mail saying you're in, since you're already on the blog.

Once you've got an invite, please post an introduction about yourself. This is the first contest!!! Everyone who posts an introduction by April 30th gets one entry to be picked at random. The prize will either be a needle roll or project bag, your choice. Coffee themed, of course!!

Once invites are out, I'll start working on partners. I'll send out international first, then USA. I'm hoping to get this all done by the time I leave for Toronto next Friday.

Am I in?

I am wondering if I am in or not. I am on the sidebar but the emails I have sent have been returned. I started sending them @ 0200 in the 18th. Just let me know.
KellyD

Button

Hi everybody! I know Knittymama is taking care of the wee one, but I thought that I'd throw this sorta/kinda button up here. I hope it's ok.

I've got it on my blog, here, if you'd like to see it in action. Please save the image to your own server, though!

Thanks!

Closing Sign Ups

Looks like we've hit around 100. I'm closing sign ups as of 3pm today. Poor Knittybaby is still sick, so I really appreciate your patience in hearing back from me. I'm doing this with a nursing/sleeping baby on my lap, so I'm pretty slow. If your wondering if you made it in or not, everyone who sent Monday or Tuesday made it. If you sent this morning it's close, but if it turns out we're at 103 or something like that I'm not going to turn those last few people away:-)

Wow! Only eight spots left!

I'm so excited to see how many people are interested in our swap and how fast these spots are going. Since it looks as if we'll be full up today, I'll start working on partners this week already.

Sorry I haven't gotten "got it!" replies out to you yet. Knittybaby is sick and I managed about 15 minutes of computer time last night, so needless to say I'm a bit behind.

The 16th, the 16th!!!!

Some of you know I am a teacher...and I'm chuckling right now because I totally know what kind of student you all were back in the 7th grade.

Some of you were very careful kids. You read the directions, two or three times. You very carefully double checked with the teacher to make sure that you were doing it the way you were supposed to. You took careful notes, did a rough draft and had your mom proofread it for you.

Then there are those of you would get a new assignment to do. You'd be so darned excited about it that you'd dive right in. You'd rush out to the library, check out a dozen books and work like mad in your bedroom for the next few days. You'd rush off to school Monday morning, thrilled that you actually got your 3-D motorized diorama of King Tut's tomb done in time, present it to your teacher who would then say: "Wow, that's really great, but didn't you read the directions? All you had to do was make a list of ten Egyptian Pharohs and the dates that they reigned. All weekend, huh? Yeah, you could have gotten that assignment done in 20 minutes. But this is really cool."

Are you all following me here folks? Because I know you are all really excited about the swap, and I am so glad for that because we're going to have a blast. But, sign-ups don't open until the 16th for a few reasons, but mostly because it's the word on the blogosphere and I've got a hectic weekend ahead of me. So, if you already sent (and a lot of you did, you excited little knitters...I'll bet you don't swatch either, do you? :-) resend on the 16th unless you're having surgery, going mountain climbing or some other major thing and then maybe I'll let it slide. And yup, I am opening it to 100 this time so hopefully that will leave room for everyone, so no worries.

Have a great weekend. I'll see you all MONDAY :-)

Sign up for Round Two!!

So sorry, this round is now closed!!! Check back in October, 2007.

I thought we could use a new look for the second swap. I debated on whether to just keep using this blog or to start another one for round two. I decided to keep it simple and keep using this one.

Okay, we all know the really important stuff is the coffee and the yarn, but just to be clear, here’s the dirt:

THE KNITTERS' COFFEE SWAP

-You must love coffee and be a knitter/crocheter.

-This is an international swap, so be sure to let me know if you are NOT willing to ship internationally so I can pair you accordingly.

-This swap is for the bloggers and the blogless. If you’re blogless, be sure to use our blog often as it will help your pal get to know you a little better.

-The box should value around $30 - $40 (not including postage) and at the minimum it must include:

-coffee! (about a pound, and we’re talking the good stuff here!:-)
-1-2 skeins of yarn, enough for a small project such as a hat, socks, a scarf, etc.
-treats to go with the coffee

Other things you could include might be a mug or travel mug, coffee accessories, knitting accessories, recipies...get creative! I've provided a few links on the side to get you started.

-This is not a secret swap. You will know your pal and your pal will know you.

-Please do not sign up unless you absolutely, positively know you will not flake on your pal and that you are going to put together a brilliant package. If you do flake, you’ll be barred from any future swaps and disappoint all of us, oh so very much!

-Sign ups will be open April 16th, at 12am Central, to the first 100 people who sign up. I will close sign ups on April 30th (earlier if we reach 100). Pals will be matched by May 15th, and you will have one month to get your package put together and shipped. All packages should be received by June 22. (International? Plan ahead!)

Interested? To sign up, email the following info to me at: coffeeswap AT yahoo DOT com

Name:
Email:
Do you have a blog? Y/N
Blog Address:
Country:
Any allergies or things you want your pal to know?
Will you take an international pal?

Once I have confirmed your sign-up, please be sure to accept the blogger invitation and then post to the Knitters Coffee Swap blog. Please use it to introduce yourself and to share your package with us when you receive it. Also feel free to post coffee links, recipes, ideas, or whatever is your fancy.

When I match you up, I will provide questions to help you put together the best package for your swap pal.

Please feel free to let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. There will be contests and I'd love suggestions and prize donations. We also need a button for round two. Feel free to make one to share!

Countdown

How many more days????

Our knitting shops in the area are starting to branch out and bring more variety.

I have discovered a lovely coffee shop with a number of different flavours of coffee - they are prepared to package small amounts.

I bought three flavours to try out.

The gourmet and dutch blends were great. The french was too strong with real aroma or body but she did warn me that they usually don't serve it on its own but but it in most of there blends.

While You're Waiting....

Only two weeks until sign ups open!

While you are waiting, I'd love to start hearing some contest ideas. I'm hoping to have at least two or three contests so I'd love to have some fun suggestions, both from past participants as well as those who hope to be in round two.

The count down is on!

Just a couple of more weeks fellow coffee aficionados! I personally can hardly wait! I'm really looking forward to another round of coffee fun!!! Wheeeeee!

Who makes the coffee in your house?

A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning.

The wife said, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to wait as long to get our coffee".

The husband said, " You are in charge of the cooking around here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee."

Wife replies, "No you should do it, and besides it is in the Bible that the man should do the coffee."

Husband replies, " I can't believe that, show me."

So she fetched the Bible, and opened the New Testament and shows him at the top of several pages, that it indeed says:

"HEBREWS"

TAG, You are it !

Tag - ever played?

Well here is your chance - you are challenged to share your the
music that keeps you knitting.

Check my list out: simone's butterfly

Mark your calendar!!!

I'm so excited to see all the interest already for Knitters' Coffee Swap Two! Thanks to those of you who have already offered prizes; that's so awesome. I'm hoping to have quite a few contests during this one, and open it up to more than 50 people this time as well. Can we make it to 100? I'm sure we can!

Sign ups will officially open on April 16th. That's the day after the month long birthday extravaganza in our house. I'll have no more cakes to bake or presents to make, so I'll be able to spend time on the swap. I'll be sure to announce it here as well on my own blog. Keep your eyes open!!

I'm Watching You!!

Yes I am checking back and watching for Coffee Swap 2!!!! I can't wait!

New Blogger

I wasn't able to switch this to the new Blogger as soon as I had hoped; Blogger wouldn't let me! But today they were ready for me and I oficially made the switch. Sorry for the delay.

Hope you're starting to think about Coffee Swap Two, the bigger and better version coming up this spring. More members! More contests! More prizes!!! (Which reminds me, if anyone wants to think about donating anything for prizes, feel free. More prizes=more contests=more fun!)

HELP NEEDED

Hi

I have been very bad as far as completing knitting projects. I am still on the same three that
I started last year.

Sometimes I misplace my needles / pattern/ wool. Then the holidays came and I found it too difficult to cope with all my visitors and knit. Then the new year arrived and I started a new
job.

Well now the dust has settled a bit and I am determine to complete my baby's blanket and socks by the end the February.

Then I plan to to do squares for charity and knit a scarf or little pillow with the lovely wool I received in this swap.

Can any one tell me how many stitches would you cast on for a 5 X5 square - using baby wool and say 5mm needles?

The I wondered what would be best a scarf or a pillow? Winter starts in June for us, I have only one scarf that I used use for school.
And then what pattern would be good to use? (remember I am still a beginner)

VOTE ?????

Oh yes just to remind you of the wool I received.

Hurrah! It's here!!!!

Look what the mail man brought me today? Thank you Ruth! I love it all!!!!

Diane

Package report!

My package inspector insists you take a look at what Le Fleur sent us. Thank you again!

Astrologically Speaking, What's Your Coffee Preference?

LEO - July 24 - August 23Trendy Leo is the first to try and learn everything about popular espresso based drinks. Lions have espresso machines at home and are ferocious about perfecting their crema and frothing techniques.
VIRGO - July 24 - August 23Pure, conservative Virgoans will stick with Colombian, the tried and true coffee that is traditional and dependable.
LIBRA - September 24 - October 23Always striving for balance, Librans choose Mocha-Java, the world's oldest and most famous blend of l/2 Mocha and l/2 Java.

I am a LIBRA......... but I also love my espresso based drinks !!!!.

Go to: Astrologically Speaking, What's Your Coffee Preference?

Know your Joe

Thought I'd share this little article that I stumbled across with all of you.
Know Your Joe

It's got all sorts of coffee tidbits in it!

The Lite side of Coffee

Drink too much coffee?? ... You just completed another sweater and you don't know how to knit.

Coffee in Bed--------------------------------------------------------------------------------A sweet little boy surprised his grandmother one morning and brought her a cup of coffee. He made it himself and was so proud. He anxiously waited to hear the verdict on the quality of the coffee. The grandmother had never in her life had such a bad cup of coffee, and as she forced down the last sip she noticed three of those little green army guys in the bottom of the cup.She asked, "Honey, why would three little green army guys be in the bottom of my cup?"Her grandson replied, "You know grandma, it's like on TV, 'The best part of waking up is soldiers in your cup.' "

Using Coffee To Trick Your Brain

Here’s a thought. Next time you’re stuck on getting a project started, why don’t you pour yourself a hot cup of java and begin the work while sipping your coffee.
Over at Smart Graduate School Applications, coffee was used to create a favourable/exitable mental state, which enabled the person to finish a particular unexciting task at hand.
This particular technique of introducing a positive physiological response to start and complete a task may just be that catalyst some of our procrastinators need. Definitely worth a try.
Obviously if coffee is not your thing, then by all means replace it with some other stimuli that always makes you feel happy, charged, positive, energised etc.
(Nekkid girls in the office it will be then…)
Updated: Ofcourse the guys at NYU came up with this beauty. The Caffeine Curve.

Got your package?

Well, I've been crusing blogs and keeping my eye out here, and it looks like everyone has either received their package or it is en route (I know those international ones can take awhile!). I'm so glad to see how much everyone has enjoyed themselves and the beautiful packages you've all received.

I know it's probably been a hectic month for us all; hopefully your gift knitting is done and you can enjoy your coffee and knit something for yourself now! If you haven't taken the time to post and thank your swap partner, please be sure to show her how much you appreciate her package by posting pics and a big "thank you." It's always a bummer to work hard putting a package together and not hearing much about it. Plus, it's fun to show off your new stuff!!

One boring thing on the big Blogger switch: Does anyone know how that works with group blogs such as this? I want to switch mine over but don't want to mess things up for everyone else. Any ideas?

Edited to add: Okay I found out that once I switch, you guys will need to switch as well to post to this blog (it looks like Blogger will switch everyone eventually anyway). So, I'll be switching over Sunday night; if you want to post aftter that you'll need to make the switch!

I'm looking forward to Coffee Swap Two this spring!!!

Caps for the Capitol

Just a reminder, if you didn't read about it on my blog or Knittymama's: I'm having a contest for Caps for the Capital. You have until Dec. 30th to whip up some preemie size hats, and let me know about it. Every hat gets you an entry in my yarn give away. I'll draw names on New Year's Eve.

Details, links, and yarn photos up at Fruity Sheep .

Box on the way to Peggy

I do hope that Peggy gets her box before Christmas. I sent it in plenty of time according to the postman. I have never sent anything to Canada before so we will see. Since I am working in New Orleans, LA. I put in some items that were strictly from the area. I can also hardly wait to see my box. I have been reading about all the others and I am jealous. This was fun.
Louise

Christmas Deliveries

Well I hope my partner gets a delivery this week. Holding thumbs that the South African post
service will at least get it there safely .

Season's Greetings

I just wanted to quickly wish everyone a very happy holiday season! I hope you are all have a healthy, happy New Year!

PS: On the "coffee front" I discovered, at 5:30 this morning, that 7-11 makes a fantastic Pumpkin Cheesecake Latte. Yummy yummy yummy! (and far cheaper than Starbucks to boot! Whoo hoo!)

Sarah

here are my treats!

I posted this on my blog a week or more ago - and I keep meaning to share it here -- so sorry I am late! Jess spoiled me (and my hubby) with coffee and treats! The alpaca yarn is beautiful - I have plans to make a lace hat or mittens with it! There were three different chocolates - dark truffles, milk with caramel middle and (unbeknownst to her - my hubby's favorite) chocolate covered cashews in dark and light chocolate. There was a cute cup and blue stitch markers - everything kinda matched the label of the coffee, very clever! And delish! Thanks Again, Jess!

I got my package!

Sorry y'all but I had the BEST swap partner-DeborahYou can see everything over on my blog Where I forgot to mention the coffee(sorry Deb) in my package!Just know I got some and it is delicious!
Thanks for everything Deborah.And thanks to Knittymama for putting this all together.Count me in for the next one!

Coffee Goodness!

Hello everyone - while I cannot post a photo (I cannot find the camera cord!!) I wanted to thank Carin for the wonderful goodies she sent me! It was an awesome box of goodies! Starting with some Cherry Tree Hill sock yarn in a yummy coffee blend of colors, some yummy Chocolate Cherry Walnut biscotti, some delicious Rocky Road Fudge, some awesome coffee - Demon - roasted locally in New Hampshire where Carin lives - wow is it amazingly good! She topped off my package with some much needed "knitters" post it notes entitled - "socks, socks, socks". Quite appropriate! Carin, thank you so much for the yummy goodies! You were a great swap partner!

Strange Little Mama's Box O' Goodness

I was overwhelmed by the wonderfulness of all of the items in my box of goodness from strange little mama. I am in a crazy sock knitting mood right now and she sent me enough nummy self patterning sock yarn to knit a pair for me and one for the creep! The chocolate bar was gone before the day was out and I put the coffee and the extra large mug to good use right away as well. The funny thing about the mug, and I didn't tell her this before hand, is that my other favorite mug is a starbucks mug that says "minneapolis/st. paul" - I may have to start a collection! I have always coveted the "ssk" type magnets and stickers, so it was great to see that nestled in with the rest of the goodies. The soap and the incense smell terrific and I can't wait to wear the "my stash is bigger than your stash" button to my next knitting group!

Thank you strange little mama!

My Swap Package is Here!

I received a wonderful box of goodies this week from my swap partner, Lori. I've got more details on my blog.

Wow! Laura You ROCK!

I was so excited when I received this in a HUGE box!

Thank you every so much Laura! What a terrific coffee indulgence! Details can be found right here on my blog...

a great big THANK YOU to Angela

Angela sent me such a fabulous package for the swap. The coffee smells amazing -- It's Vanilla Creme Brulee from Longbottom Coffee and Tea in Oregon. There's some beautiful subtley-variegated hand-dyed yarn in a coffee color from Spindle Cat Studio. It's super soft, and it will knit up into some lovely, classy socks that will look great with the brown clogs I wear all the time. There's also a ton of yummy chocolates, a super cute black sheep measuring tape, a vanilla J candle, lavender bath fizzies, a postcard from Portland, a playful pen and pencil. She even made things for me! A cute coffeecup dishcloth and coffee bean beaded stitch markers. Angela's awesome. What more can I say?

A close-up of the beautiful yarn

The coffee and an awesome Oregon travel mug (much-needed, I tell you) in their natural setting.

Spoiled Rotten, That's Me!

Well, Kelly apparently thought I was a very, very good girl this year...look at all these goodies from my Coffeeswap Santa:

Coffee! And mugs! And Peeps! And Jasmine Body Scrub and Cucumber Melon Body Butter~

And, of course, yarn:

Look at that batch...Regia, Trekking, and Opal. In absolutely gorgeous colors.

Thanks so much, Kelly!!!!

Pacakge of goodies arrive in Tualatin...

A box of yummy goodness made its way all the way from The Windy City aka Chicago, Illinois. I think my partner Jodi must have been spying on me. How else would she know that I have been coveting yarn from Perchance to Knit. And there it is in all its glory in the ChaCha colorway. There was a cute lil stitch marker with it as well. Even the hubby thinks that the color is great and will make a nice pair of socks. Plus I also received some Ivy Cottage Scone Mix by Caffe D' Armore in Cinnamon Oatmeal, Chocolate Sticks Cappuccino by Rademaker, coffee by Godiva in Creme Brulee and some amaretto flavored coffee from The Cofee & Tea Exchange. And last but not least, the most perfect coffee mug. Thank you soooo much!!!! Looking forward to Round 2!!!

LaVerna your box is in the mail!

... and has left Jersey. Despite many trials and tribulations thrown at me by my family's constant attempts to sabotage anything I wanted to do, I filled your box to the brim with Jerseylicious stuff and raced over to my neighborhood post office. I waited on the extra, extra long line where I got to hear the gripes of all the happy holiday, last minute patrons complain about government inefficiency! I did meet a very nice man on the line who has his own radio show (ooh you should have heard his voice)and we chatted away about all things related to nothing at all. He asked me what I was mailing and I showed him (sorry). He didn't get it though, so I had to explain about the Knitter's Coffee Swap. He still didn't get it -

"You mean, you send all of this stuff to a practical stranger?" He asked quizzically.

"Um hm, and she's in Texas too!" I said with a happy face.

"Did she send you anything?" He was still puzzled.

"Well, yeah!" I nearly shouted. Everyone on the line was now eavesdropping.

"How many people do this thing, the swapping that is." He had a dirty look on his face.

"Yo, back off, dude, it ain't like that at all!" I put on my sistagirl face from Brooklyn.

"I didn't mean anything, it's just that.., I mean, well, nobody ever gave me anything like that before. Maybe I'm in the wrong business." He looked hurt.

"Ok, we cool, not to worry." I said.

He smiled, I smiled and the other people on the line looked very confused so I popped open the box (again, sorry) and showed everyone on the line. After that, no one else complained about the long line, the wait or government inefficiency any more. I heard someone whisper, "wow, now that's the spirit of the holidays...."

So, LaVerna, your package is in the mail sealed with good karma!!

POSTMAN COMETH!

Look at what the the post brought me . . . I am in COFFEE HEAVEN!!! When I came back from lunch on Monday there was a package on my desk at work from Canada . . . well I knew immediately what that meant . . . ANITA LEE SENT ME GOODIES FROM RICHMOND, BC!!! . . . and what goodies they are . . . Anita wrote in her letter to me (the back side of the letter is shown here . . . Anita cut out ladybugs and put them all over the letter . . . too cute!!!!) that she went to three different coffee shops in the Vancouver area where they roast coffee and sent me organic French Roast beans from Salt Spring Coffee, organic Arabica beans from Viva Java (a local Richmond coffee shop where the beans were roasted the morning that she sent my package-talk about fresh!) and a Christmas blend from JJ Bean House of Coffee . . . and the bonus to all these coffees is that if I fall in love with any of them I will be able to get more by e-mailing my request to the shops. . . isn't that great!!!!! Anita also visited "THE" Canadian coffee & donut shop, Tim Horton's, and sent me a mug with a little package of their blend of coffee.

Now as you can tell from the picture the goodies did not end there . . . Anita also whipped up a batch of homemade (that's right . . . made fresh the morning of the mailing) Peppermint Bark . . . of course my co-workers and I had to try some of that right away . . . WOW its great especially with a cup of coffee . . . who knew that you could make something that tastes so good from Special K cereal . . . and the final goodies in the package were 3 skiens of 100% wool Jojoland yarn if a soft varigated green color . . . I can't wait to start knitting that yarn up!!!!

So a BIG THANK YOU Anita . . . you did good and as you said . . . we may have had a slow start (wrong email and blog addresses - we were driving our poor hostess crazy) but we did get on track . . . I am now going to enjoy a cup of Viva Java coffee while I look through some knitting books for the perfect pattern for the yarn!!!

LindaB
(aka oldknitter)

Heaven in a Cookie

Knitters, Coffee-drinkers, Friends.

I can't believe that I haven't shared this recipe with you all yet. Though what I'm truly sad about is that I didn't know about it until *after* sending my package to my Coffee Swap Pal. What a lovely addition this would have made! Without further ado, I present to you - my Fine Coffee Friends - Heaven in a Cookie:
_________________________
MOCHA SHORTBREAD
Yield: 25 squares or 50 triangles
Prep: 15 min., bake: 20 min., cool: 30 min.

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
• 2/3 cup butter or margarine, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate morsels, divided
• Vanilla or coffee ice cream (optional)

Combine first 3 ingredients in a medium bowl; add butter and vanilla, and beat at low speed with an electric mixer until blended. Stir in 1 cup chocolate morsels.
Press dough into an ungreased 9-inch square pan; prick dough with a fork.
Bake at 325° for 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Sprinkle remaining cup of morsels over top, and spread to cover as it melts. Cut shortbread into 25 (about 1 3⁄4-inch) squares; cut each square into 2 triangles if desired. Let cool 30 minutes in pan before removing. Serve with ice cream, if desired.
_____________________________
I have ridiculously low willpower when these little cookies are in my home. Yet I keep making them... Ah, well. It IS December after all. Merry, merry!

SWEEEEEEEET!

Iva, Iva,Iva, you have out done yourself! Oh my, I just do not have the adjectives to give this the proper praise. This , of course, was above and beyond what I ever expected in a swap with someone I did'nt even know! We got the cookies, the coffee( two different kinds ) a teenie tiny knitting book that informed me that the moss stitch is also known as the huckaback stitch, who knew? Oh, and yarn, two tropical bright happy colors to transform into happy socks when the darkness of January comes to the Dakotas. But the gift that stopped me in my tracks was a small, maybe an afterthought thing that was tossed in, a CHIBI. Now its crazy but I've wanted and sure meant to buy this handy little tool that I'm sure every knitter has in her bag, but I never did. I was even looking at it in patternworks catalog thinking I need to get one. And low and behold, here it is in my hand! WEIRD, how did Iva know???!!!! I hear the music from the X-Files playing in the background...... Thank you Iva, I loved everything. This swap has been so marvelous,fabulous,spectacular,prime and superb( I'm looking at a thesaurus) Oh, I almost forgot, I got my prize yarn from Knittymama and is sooo cool, I see hat in my future! Thanks mama, I raise a chocolate cookie to you! Cheers!

Phew!

I am so relieved!! I got word a couple of days ago from my swap partner "Gigiknits" that she received her parcel that I sent! I was worried because first of all I procrastinated and didn't get it sent out early enough and Canada Post was telling me it would take 10 business days to get to her (not even a whole day's drive away, but across the border, so I guess that makes a difference!) and then to top of my woes, a friend of mine had told me she'd heard that some people have trouble shipping things like food goods and yarns across to the States. BAH! I was having fits of "what if? what if?" But (sigh) she got it (not too late - only three days past the deadline) and it sounds like she was pleased. Next time I do a swap, I vow not to procrastinate! Silly thing is I had everything gathered up in plenty of time, just couldn't seem to get myself off to the post office.

Thanks, Knittymama for hosting my first ever swap! It's been so much fun, and I look forward to the next one!!

Sarah

Oops, Forgot to post here.

I posted on my blog, but forgot to come over here. Knittymama sent me a great package!
Chocolate, Peace Coffee, more chocolate, some lucious Celestial BFL from Lucy Neatby, and other goodies.

Thanks so much. Can't wait for the next one. This was so much fun.

Did you get your package??

What wonderful, gererous swappers we have in this bunch!!! I am amazed at the beautiful boxes everyone has been opening. Remember, you should have received your package by now. Drop me an e-mail if yours is late and your partner hasn't let you know what's up. If you have gotten your package, but sure to post here and let your pal know how much you love it!!!

I've been getting a lot of inquiries as to Coffee Swap Two. Yes, there will be one! I'll open it to more swappers next time and I'm hoping to get some donated gifts so we can have more contests and prizes. (If you want to donate let me know). Sign ups for the next swap will open up in April and the swap will run through May. I'll be sure to make plenty of announcements on my blog beforehand so you won't miss it. I'll announce it here as well.

In the meantime, enjoy your coffee, start a new project, and keep posting at this blog as much as you want. I'm sure people would love to see what you've knit up with all that yarn by now!

I'm the luckiest!

Thank you so much, Chrissie! She sent the most fabulous package - check it out on my blog for a photo (blogger isn't playing nice so I can't post a preview) and details.

My Package!

I received my package from Amy last week!! She's amazing. I had three different yarns, some snowman accessories (a spoon rest, which I so needed, and a small mug!), chocolate covered pretzel bits, caramel corn, some amazing raspberry and chocolate poinsetta candies, two different types of coffee (which are amazing!!!) Unfortunately I have no camera right now as mine is on the fritz, so I can only relate how great my gifts were. Thanks so much Amy. You're the greatest!!

The Art of Receiving

Thank you to Erin. I received a wonderful yarn and wooden knitting needles. A beautiful blue mug, chocolate spoons and of course Coffee.

I thought the chocolate spoons were for my daughter. Then Ruth informed me that i am supposed to stir it into my coffee. (her comment was that I am sometimes so South African)






T

Lucky me!

Lia, you rock!

Close ups on my blog, but I have to point out here that the yarn was dyed by Lia herself. Even cooler, do you see the lovely brown sock yarn? The name? Knittymama's Coffeeshop! I'm a happy girl today!

I'm so excited!

My swap parcel came in the mail on Friday afternoon! (Sorry I didn't post sooner) Check out my blog for all the details! Let's just say my swap partner "gigiknits" is a wonderful, generous person!

Sarah

The Art of giving

The Art of giving

I have really enjoyed being part of the knitters Coffee Swap. I have not yet received my parcel, neither has my partner received hers.

Being involved with this swap has really been a fun experience. I have gotten know a lot other people. I have gotten to know my friend Ruth better. I have gotten to know the area I live in and the products on offer better. I liked the fact that it was an open swap and that you could ask your partner questions.

The only down side was that I had to watch the weight of my parcel because of the cost of sending it overseas.

I was involved with a secret friend group in Church one year. Half way through the year my partner moved and the gifts stopped and no-one knew. I will still sending to my partner but I was not receiving anything. Not nice.

There is definitely a joy one gets in buying gifts (as long as you are not stressed about money).
Its wonderful to get a gift that you actually like. You know someone has taken care to think about you.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE INVOLVED THEMED SWAP ONCE A QUARTER?

My package arrived!

Check out the awesome package I got from Amy Ruth! I've got the whole scoop on my blog!! Thank you Amy!!!

I got mail!

Thank you, Susan! From San Antonio she sent me Rio Grande blend coffee ("Hints of cinnamon and chocolate" -- my favorite two flavors!), orange-cranberry biscotti (now, sadly, all eaten, but lovely while they lasted), Dagoba chocolate* ("Dark chocolate, chilies & nibs" -- wowza, yum!), and yarn. Oh, the yarn. Two skeins of Atacama alpaca worsted in gorgeous shades of turquoise and black/brown. Come see some more pictures of its lusciousness at my blog.

* The sharp-eyed among you will notice that only the outer wrapper of this chocolate is present. Hey, the package came 3 days ago! You didn't think chocolate would hang around that long uneaten, did you? :-)

Texas in the house!

My dear LaVerna has sent me a wonderful variety of goodies -


The yarn and coffee is scrumptious -




I got stitch markers and a coffee mug and mints and moisturizer and note paper and chocolate and so much more! Thank you LaVerna for being so generous and thoughtful! I'm going to start on that hat right away! The sock pattern is aptly entitled, "sell your sole socks" because after my disaster with my first knitted sock attempt, I just may have to do that in order to be successful the second time around!

Someone asked about the colorway for the Sweetgeorgia Yarn - it's Boheme and it is gorgeous!

Thank you, Mamagrouch!

I received my package yesterday from MamaGrouch and it rocked!! She sent me all kinds of goodness! Click on the picture below for details...


A, you should have received your package yesterday, and if not, definitely Monday!

How lucky can one girl be?

See the package that I got to unpack last night?


See my post about the goodies inside here on my blog.

Abigail, again thank you so much for being a generous and thoughtful pal!

Hey everyone!!!

I received my goodies today from my pal, Kathryn!! What an awesome bunch of gifties! Thanks Kathryn! Your package is on it's way and I hope you love it to pieces!

What Fun!!!

I have enjoyed buying my goodies to send to my partner. I am sending them out on Sat. Wendy! If my post office has one of those do-it-yourself mailing boxes it will be tonight. Every time I was ready to seal the box, I found another fun item to add....this is like Christmas and being Santa! Please consider having another swap after the holidays.

I have really enjoyed this and it has lifted my gift giving spirits this holiday season!

scappyhappy (Iva)

Package is ready!

Just wanted to assure my swap partner, kathy, that her package will be mailed this afternoon. I think I picked out some pretty yummy stuff- it was hard to tape it shut without snitching a little sumpin' sumpin'! Everybody's packages have looked awesome so far!

Have a great day, everybody!

DUUUUUUUUDESSSSS!!!!!!!!
I am sooooo blown away I won! I know I was picked randomly but its so cool! Yeah for me! Thank you, Thank You so much, I feel so blessed! This swap has been so fun, every day I rush to the computer, knocking kids and dog outta my way to be first to check out the new posts. We have to do another one, this is way too much fun.
Thanks again !!!!

A winner!!

The random number generator has picked the winner of our contest! It's Wendy, who's favorite place to enjoy a cup of coffee is her own personal coffeeshop at home:-) Wendy, e-mail me at coffeeswap AT yahoo DOT com with your snail mail and the Malabrigo is yours! Congratulations!!

Thanks to everyone who shared. I really enjoyed everyone's entries...makes me want to take a serious cross-contiental coffee/yarn crawl! I wish I had a prize for every single one of you. You are such wonderful, generous swappers!

Spoiled Rotten and loving it.....

W00t! Woot! It's my turn to brag. I got the best pal and she spoiled me but good.

Here's a sneak peek of what she sent.














Want to see more come on over and visit my blog. The yarn gorgeous!

Thanks Gunifer, your the best:D and your box is on it's way to you.......

Oh no... another new favourite!

Well. This fall I abandoned my very favourite Gingerbread Spice Latte from Starbucks for Pumpkin Spice Lattes from the same. Tonight my fickle tastes have been swayed towards a new favourite. Nick (youngest son) and I went out to the Forks tonight to pick up some coffee beans that I ordered specially for my boyfriend. It seems to be becoming a weekly ritual for Nick and I; last week we went for beans for my coffee swap partner! Anyways, I digress... I decided on a whim to try something new at Expresso Junction and ordered a Candy Cane Mocha. Oh my... heaven in a cup especially on a cold wintery night! Peppermint syrup, espresso and hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, chocolate sauce and crushed candy cane. Can you get any better than that? Yum, yum, yum. Farewell pumpkin and gingerbread, for I have found my soul mate of coffees!

Parcel almost ready

I am flying to the UK this Thursday and will be sending Samantha's parcel from there, it should reach her in two days. I have found two locally packaged coffee, and the yarn I am sending is handpainted wool/mohair/silk blend from over the rainbow, enough to make the Sophia fleted bag (she just knitted her first felted bag not long ago). Plus other goodies.

Whoopie!

Saturday's mail contained the most awesome parcel. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee wafted from the box and filled the entire room before it was even opened. And once the hindering tape, cardboard and paper were removed I squealed in delight at the contents. There were not one or two, or even three or four, but FIVE different roasts of coffee from the Bostons Best Coffee Roasters. And two amazing new cups will ensure that my morning coffee ritual is completely amazing. Also there were three gourmet chocolate bars and 400 yards of amazing hand dyed yarn from Mind's Eye Yarns in Cambridge. And just who is responsible for all of these fibery and caffeinated delights? That would be Miss V from KnittingSpells! Thank you so very much to Miss V and thank you to the organizers of this wonderful swap.

Just in the knick of . . .

I made it back from my long Friday drive in time to post coffee shop and mug pictures on my blog.

My favorite place for a cup of joe is just down the street:

Caribou Coffee in Boystown

I know, Caribou is a corporate chain, but it's near and dear to my heart for a couple reasons.

my favorite place to sit

The semi-rustic decor with exposed beams, the comfy leather chairs, and the stone fireplace remind me of cabins up north in Minnesota. Chicago's a great place to live, don't get me wrong, but I miss my home state, especially in the winter, when I long for the frozen tundra, deer, and pine trees.

Caribou started in Minnesota. The founders started it with their trip to Alaska in mind, but really it seems more Minnesota-themed to me. The Ho Ho Mocha, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream and crushed candy cane, is to die for, and the Gingerbread Latte isn't half bad, either.

nothing like waiting . . .

till the last minute! But I did put my entry along with photos of my favorite coffee mugs on my blog this morning. It is my new beta blog, I had to switch in the middle of this swap - the old one will still route you to the new.

I hope everyone has a lovely and well caffinate weekend!

Coffee Poem

One of my co-workers has this posted on her wall of her office! I thought it was kind of cute!

Caffeine

Caffeine is my shepherd; I shall not doze.
It maketh me to wake in green pastures:
It leadeth me beyond the sleeping masses.
It restoreth my buzz:
It leadeth me in the paths of consciousness for its name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of addiction, I
will fear no Equal (tm):
For thou art with me;
Thy cream and thy sugar they comfort me.
Thou preparest a carafe before me in the presence of Juan Valdez:
Thou anointest my day with pep; my mug runneth over.
Surely richness and taste shall follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the House of Maxwell for ever.

Contest Entry

I hope I am not late to the contest! I posted an entry in my blog and also posted a pic of my favorite mug.

Holy Package Batman!

I received an amazing package from Heide yesterday. Go check it out all the fabulous goodies on my blog. Thank you Heide!!! And thank you Knittymama for setting up this fabulous swap!