Although our area needed some rain, I am so annoyed that the entire episode had a 5" square weather map of the storm passing over us. That aside, this was a fun show - rehashing all the bits that we loved the first time they happened. Although this episode is called "The Men Tell All," I wouldn't say they reveal much we didn't already know.
Right off the bat, Chris Harrison launches a package of him interviewing Ali about Justin, Kasey, Kirk, and Frank.
Ali says Justin surprised her - that she had a really good first impression of him. She says that she didn't want him to get away with what he had done. Now, I am going to take it a step further. Since he did this for fame, I am not going to mention him for the rest of this post. ABC brought on former bachelorette, Jessie, to discuss how everything went down, but I refuse to give Justin more air time. Final word: He's a cheeseball.
Ali politely says that Kasey said "guard and protect your heart" maybe a couple of hundred times. And admits that his singing was awkward. And that seeing his tattoo made her feel bad. I personally think she should have let him go on the one-on-one instead of withholding the rose but keeping him. I mean come on - she knew from the singing that he was not the one, not to mention "It's just my heart - jump in, stay a while." YARGH! If she had let him go then, we wouldn't have had to hear him sing anymore and he wouldn't have gotten the tattoo.
She says that Kirk's scrapbook on the first night really kept him there that night. Then Ali says the taxidermy stuff in the basement would have made her run in any other situation , but that Kirk's dad was really sweet. Maybe I am old fashioned, but I think scrapbooking is for the ladies. Not really sure who taxidermy is for. Natural history museums, perhaps.
Ali says that she woke up in Tahiti on the day of the date with Frank very excited to see him. She said she was not expecting any of that. She doesn't regret anything and is still glad she follows her instincts. Oh, Frank. Not sure what to think of you. Not sure I care anymore. I guess I'll get a little more info on After the Final Rose. I think we deserve to know a little more about Nicole. I don't know how to put this nicely, but Ali is cuter than her by miles, so it must be something on the inside. Also - why does Frank have to say now that he wants to spend the rest of his life with Nicole? For someone so fickle he sure seems to be making a life-changing decision pretty quickly.
Then they show a few scenes that did not make the episodes, kind of for good reason. Roberto almost hitting Ali in the head with a flying champagne cork, Frank's dad making a long strange toast that turned out to be a joke, Ali on her date with Kasey pretending to be an astronaut, and wildlife noises on her date with Roberto in Portugal. Nothing we would have missed.
Chris Harrison addresses the Chris N. issue and says he was truly just a quiet guy. The other bachelors nicknamed him the Phantom because of his tendency to just appear out of nowhere.
When we finally get to see the bachelors, there are a bunch that left early on that I really didn't recognize. And most of them didn't get much air time tonight either. Chris N. has had a haircut and talks more than he ever did this season. What I find the most amusing is the hierarchy among the guys. Like Kasey who rolls his eyes at the Weatherman, clearly thinking he's nuts. Um, who got the body ink? Then other bachelors that I can't remember their names calling out the Weatherman for not owning up telling Ali that Craig M. was dangerous. Bottom line is Weatherman stayed longer than they did. I think he just seems like an easy guy to pick on.
Most of the bachelors think Kasey is crazy but think he was there for the right reasons. They also think Frank was a good guy and did not come on the show with the intent to deceive Ali. They do think he was selfish, but don't know a more honorable way out.
Chris Harrison talks to Kasey one-on-one. Kasey says this was an opportunity for him to become more open and vulnerable. Chris suggests that perhaps he was too over the top and scared her a little and Kasey admits that's possible. Chris even said it was uncomfortable to watch Kasey sing and was thinking "dude, stop!" (so were we all, Chris!). Nothing new revealed here.
Kirk moves into the hot seat. He says Ali broke his heart. He talks a little about his illness and how that was the main reason for being so self focused in the past. He does blame Frank for preventing him from furthering his relationship with Ali.
Ali comes out to see the guys. She's nervous to see them! She says the hardest part of the show was saying goodbye to the guys. Chris asks if she wished she could have taken Kirk to Tahiti, knowing what she does now about Frank. She said she wishes she had known about Frank earlier, but she thinks things played out as they should. And now, just to prove that Kasey is completely obtuse, he sings to her. Again. I don't want to be mean, but he is really difficult to understand even when he is talking, so when he is singing it is even worse. Seriously cannot sing a note and should never, ever try again.
A few funny outtakes that were sort of humorous and that wraps up the men telling all! Quick review of our final two bachelors with footage of their time with Ali. There was a sneak peek of the Bachelor Pad starting in two short weeks!! All the smarmy stuff that happens on the normal Bachelor/ette but without the pretense of finding true love. I am little surprised to see Tenley on there, but I think I saw her making out with Kiptyn, so that could be interesting. Lots of making out and tears. Elizabeth "don't kiss me" has blonde hair these days. Gia thinks Wes is an okay guy. Some of the girls throwing up for some reason. That's good TV!
Next week is the final rose! I want her to pick Chris, but have a sinking suspicion she'll pick Roberto. *sigh. Time will tell!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
It Hits The Fan
Ever since the ABC previews that showed Frank and Ali crying their eyes out in Tahiti, we knew this day was coming , but we didn't have all the juicy details. Tonight we should be viewing the three getaway dates complete with fantasy suites, but instead we start by hearing Frank whine about being in love with two girls: Ali and his ex-girlfriend, Nicole. So instead of going straight to Tahiti, Frank goes, cameras in tow, to see Nicole in Chicago to see if his feelings are real. An aside - the KnitWits were behind Frank from the beginning. We really liked him, but with his initial jealousy and constant over-analyzing, we are pretty much over him anyway.
So Frank heads to Nicole's apartment and tells her he has real feelings for Ali, but is confused by his feelings for Nicole. He shamelessly abuses pronouns throughout his confession of love. Nicole uses the old "you complete me" line. Yargh. So now that Frank knows Nicole loves him too, he can pull the rug out from under Ali without being left alone.
Tahiti looks beautiful. First date is with Roberto! Look, I don't want to be mean because he seems nice, but I have yet to hear him say one interesting thing. Do they edit that out? I mean, when do they talk about their stands on stem cell research? So for their date they take - wait for it - a helicopter to Tupai, a heart-shaped island. Now, don't kill the messenger, but Roberto has perspiration issues in Tahiti. His shirt is gross. Fortunately their date is on a private beach and they get in the water almost right away. And we, the viewer, get a wonderful water make-out scene that we have been deprived of this season. Yea, Ali, for avoiding the hot tubs!! Roberto and Ali have dinner and Roberto is drenched in sweat. Poor guy. He is sweet though and says he wants to open up to her and that he is falling in love with her. Kisses! Fantasy suite card from Chris and all systems are go!
Date two is with Chris. He and Ali take a catamaran out to explore Tahiti. They talk about how great the hometown visit was. Then they just relax and make out for a while. They jump off the boat and swim to an island. Who wants the job of the underwater cameraman for these water make out scenes? Talk about awkward!! Chris carries her to shore and they wade in the shallows. They find some oysters and rip them open for the pearls -sort of romantic, but also sort of gross as those oysters were alive until they ripped them in half. Ick. That night Chris and Ali wade to a private island to have a picnic. Chris is taking a chance and opening up to Ali - he tells her that he sees himself with her forever. Awww! He is really very genuine. His face is flushed every time he talks to her - you can't fake that. Fantasy suite card! Chris seems really surprised. Has he never seen this show?? I guess not!! The fantasy suite is really pretty - lots of candles and I fear for Ali's flowy pants. He tells her he doesn't care where they live and that he loves her. Curtains close and they have their alone time.
So Frank comes to Tahiti and just because he has to drag out the camera time as much as possible, he calls in Chris Harrison to discuss the best way to tell Ali. Chris seems surprised that Frank feels this way as he has made no mention of Nicole before. Chris says he is blown away - Ali was crazy about Frank and that Frank seemed ready to propose. Frank confesses that after the hometown date he felt his feelings for Nicole were holding him back. Chris doesn't really make things any easier on Frank - Chris says Ali will be in emotional turmoil over this heading into the most important week of her life. Frank is already teary eyed.
So Ali arrives ready to take Frank sailing, but after they hug hello, Frank says they need to talk. He keeps hemming and hawing and Ali has to say what is going on?! Both are crying before he even really starts. He tries to soften the blow by saying how strong their connection was and that he had been falling for her, BUT, he has feelings for an ex-girlfriend. After hearing Frank's whole story, Ali tells him how selfish she thinks he is by never having mentioned any of this before. Agreed. I think we only hear him say he's sorry once. But he has done what is best for him and that's what matters to Frank. She gives him a hug goodbye and somehow resists the urge to roundhouse kick him in the head. She goes and cries on a beach where Chris Harrison comes to console her. Frank leaves Tahiti and Ali walks around questioning whether the other guys will reciprocate her love.
So the next day it's the rose ceremony. Chris Harrison thinks it's important to have a ceremony even though the results are understood. Ali explains to the the guys that Frank had some things he had not taken care of in Chicago and that he was definitely not the right guy for her. Roberto, bless his heart, is sweating buckets. He even seems to have a hand towel in his back pocket to mop his brow. Neither Roberto nor Chris seem to care a lick that Frank is gone or why. They are just glad to be moving on to next week and both assure Ali they are in this for the long haul.
Apparently, Ali's family is in Bora Bora, so they won't have to go all the way back to Massachusetts to meet her family. Look forward to another week in paradise!
So Frank heads to Nicole's apartment and tells her he has real feelings for Ali, but is confused by his feelings for Nicole. He shamelessly abuses pronouns throughout his confession of love. Nicole uses the old "you complete me" line. Yargh. So now that Frank knows Nicole loves him too, he can pull the rug out from under Ali without being left alone.
Tahiti looks beautiful. First date is with Roberto! Look, I don't want to be mean because he seems nice, but I have yet to hear him say one interesting thing. Do they edit that out? I mean, when do they talk about their stands on stem cell research? So for their date they take - wait for it - a helicopter to Tupai, a heart-shaped island. Now, don't kill the messenger, but Roberto has perspiration issues in Tahiti. His shirt is gross. Fortunately their date is on a private beach and they get in the water almost right away. And we, the viewer, get a wonderful water make-out scene that we have been deprived of this season. Yea, Ali, for avoiding the hot tubs!! Roberto and Ali have dinner and Roberto is drenched in sweat. Poor guy. He is sweet though and says he wants to open up to her and that he is falling in love with her. Kisses! Fantasy suite card from Chris and all systems are go!
Date two is with Chris. He and Ali take a catamaran out to explore Tahiti. They talk about how great the hometown visit was. Then they just relax and make out for a while. They jump off the boat and swim to an island. Who wants the job of the underwater cameraman for these water make out scenes? Talk about awkward!! Chris carries her to shore and they wade in the shallows. They find some oysters and rip them open for the pearls -sort of romantic, but also sort of gross as those oysters were alive until they ripped them in half. Ick. That night Chris and Ali wade to a private island to have a picnic. Chris is taking a chance and opening up to Ali - he tells her that he sees himself with her forever. Awww! He is really very genuine. His face is flushed every time he talks to her - you can't fake that. Fantasy suite card! Chris seems really surprised. Has he never seen this show?? I guess not!! The fantasy suite is really pretty - lots of candles and I fear for Ali's flowy pants. He tells her he doesn't care where they live and that he loves her. Curtains close and they have their alone time.
So Frank comes to Tahiti and just because he has to drag out the camera time as much as possible, he calls in Chris Harrison to discuss the best way to tell Ali. Chris seems surprised that Frank feels this way as he has made no mention of Nicole before. Chris says he is blown away - Ali was crazy about Frank and that Frank seemed ready to propose. Frank confesses that after the hometown date he felt his feelings for Nicole were holding him back. Chris doesn't really make things any easier on Frank - Chris says Ali will be in emotional turmoil over this heading into the most important week of her life. Frank is already teary eyed.
So Ali arrives ready to take Frank sailing, but after they hug hello, Frank says they need to talk. He keeps hemming and hawing and Ali has to say what is going on?! Both are crying before he even really starts. He tries to soften the blow by saying how strong their connection was and that he had been falling for her, BUT, he has feelings for an ex-girlfriend. After hearing Frank's whole story, Ali tells him how selfish she thinks he is by never having mentioned any of this before. Agreed. I think we only hear him say he's sorry once. But he has done what is best for him and that's what matters to Frank. She gives him a hug goodbye and somehow resists the urge to roundhouse kick him in the head. She goes and cries on a beach where Chris Harrison comes to console her. Frank leaves Tahiti and Ali walks around questioning whether the other guys will reciprocate her love.
So the next day it's the rose ceremony. Chris Harrison thinks it's important to have a ceremony even though the results are understood. Ali explains to the the guys that Frank had some things he had not taken care of in Chicago and that he was definitely not the right guy for her. Roberto, bless his heart, is sweating buckets. He even seems to have a hand towel in his back pocket to mop his brow. Neither Roberto nor Chris seem to care a lick that Frank is gone or why. They are just glad to be moving on to next week and both assure Ali they are in this for the long haul.
Apparently, Ali's family is in Bora Bora, so they won't have to go all the way back to Massachusetts to meet her family. Look forward to another week in paradise!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Meet the Parents
Well, tonight's the night Ali meets the guys' families. If you think about it, it's still early in the game to be trying to ingratiate yourself to someone's family. I mean, you are dating three other people! And at this point, were it the Bachelor, he might even be asking for a girl's hand in marriage. Before the fantasy dates! It's a weird time line. BUT, meeting the family does allow our Bachelor/ette to see things he/she might not have before. Anyone remember the bird burial in Jason's season? I think it is fair to find out if your potential spouse is a ticking time bomb that might go mental some day.
Ali first flies to Tampa to see Roberto. I am not sure if it was intentional, but both Roberto and Ali sort of looked like their shirts were made out of picnic table cloths. Ali giggles her way on up to Roberto and kisses and hugs ensue. Roberto used to play baseball in college and in the minors. Now he is an insurance salesman in South Carolina, but to show Ali who he used to be he takes her to the University of Tampa baseball field. He pulls out all the stops - he gives her a jersey, he puts on his old uniform, and he even tries to teach her to play. They relive his glory days for a bit. If I'm being honest, it looked like Ali could play, but who knows how many balls she missed before they got the take where she hit it. Then Roberto gives her his baseball card from her hometown, Williamstown, where he played for a team called the Steeplecats. I never noticed it before but Roberto has an enormous dent in his chin. KnitWit Meredith suggests that perhaps it's because Ali's face is always on his. Then they take a helicopter to his house. Just kidding! But you almost believed ABC would do that, didn't you! Ali meets Roberto's mom and dad, Olga and Roberto, Sr., his brother, Peter, sister, Olga, and sister-in-law, Kristen. Roberto, Sr. shows Ali the trophy shrine to Roberto, Jr. and is clearly very proud. He asks Ali her personal goals and if she would be willing to move for Roberto's job. She answers that she needs something fulfilling for her as well and would want to make choice based on what was best for their hypothetical family. Roberto's mom looks super youthful!! He was talking to her outside and I thought she was the sister! Roberto has a sweet talk with his mom and she gives him her blessing. Then they salsa dance and everyone's happy.
Ali's off to Cape Cod to hang out with Chris. The whole thing is idyllic. Yes, it is raining a little bit, but they are having fun. They are out on the beach throwing a ball for Chris' black lab, Jenny. I notice that Ali is wearing what I am pretty sure are the same killer boots from the Turkish market - not so appropriate for the beach. They are sinking in so much she might as well be wearing flats. Doesn't look like it is bothering her though - just me. She feels very at home in Massachusetts. They head to his house where he has lived with his dad since he moved home when his mom was sick. Chris shows Ali some photos of his mom and the rest of his family and then they hug it out. Sitting on the front porch of his awesome cottage, he tells her that his family is going to love her and then they smooch a little. The family comes home: Dad, brothers, Mark and Eric, sister-in-law, Meagan, and future sister-in-law, Sarah. Ali and Chris break out wine from their date in Portugal and share it with the family. Meagan and Sarah have on the same bracelets like the one Chris gave Ali in Portugal. Meagan also has Chris' mom's bracelet which is engraved "Love Is The Only Reality." Message received! The family all seems very natural and loving. They do talk about Chris' mother's death quite a bit, but somehow it's not depressing - it just shows this family's strength. Cute house, wonderful family, adorable dog - what more do you want?
Ali then visits Kirk in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Hugs and kisses! They are going to see his father and stepmother and then to his mother's house. The dad, stepmom and sister seem nice enough. I am sure it didn't quite go down like this, but simply put, Kirk's dad asks Ali if she would like to go see his basement. FYI - The answer to this question in all circumstances is "No." Next question : "Would you like to go first?" This is the question of a serial killer. Run Ali!!! And why isn't Kirk going with her? My mind went immediately to "It puts the lotion on its skin..." Ick. And really that's not that far off since Kirk's dad's basement is covered with dead animals. In his mind he is bringing these animals back to life, but they are oh so dead and cover every square inch of that basement. I have to hand it to Ali - she manages to keep it together and have a conversation with the man. I would have been too busy projectile vomiting. Let's move on. The most normal part of the visit is when they play soccer in the back yard with Kirk's cute little sister. They move on to Kirk's mom's house to have dinner with his grandmother, Arlene, mother, Tina, and sister, Tori (I think). They seem nice enough and everyone seems to like Ali. Ali seems still concerned because Kirk has not had a long-term relationship and might not be prepared to jump into marriage.
On to Chicago!! She and Frank hop on a boat to get a look at Chicago. Look, I know Frank is the fashionista here, but I really question his choice of shirt. I understand that it is some sort of designer fancy t-shirt, I don't care. It looks like an undershirt. Glad I got that off my chest. Ali and Frank chat on the boat and the same issues arise: Frank's insecurities about the relationship. Project much? Ali's a smart girl though and can see that maybe he is questioning his feelings too. They head to his house and meet his dad, Hank, mom, Debbie, sister, Becky, and brother-in-law, Chris. They are all nice and seem to have a great collective sense of humor. Ali chats with Debbie and then Becky. Frank also confides in his family that he is just trying to figure out if this is a forever type relationship. Broken record. But his family loves her and Frank thinks she fit right in. They kiss goodbye and she's off to LA!
Rose Ceremony!! Look, I think we all have some idea of who is going home. Ali is such a cheerful, silver-lining type gal, that she would never say anything about anyone's family, but one does stand out as being unusual. And by the way, I am not buying the whole sweetness and light act all the time - last season is not so long ago when Ali had an issue with Vienna and really could not let it go. We saw her inner bitch then. And as long as I am picking on her - what's with the dress? I didn't say anything last week, but she's pushing her luck. Anyway, let's give Ali the benefit of the doubt and allow that it was not the family that forced this decision. As they are standing in line Roberto and Chris are called first. Down to Frank and Kirk. And Frank takes the rose leaving Kirk high and dry. Kirk was completely shocked and hurt. He points out it is the first time anyone has ever broken up with him.
It really wasn't that exciting of an episode - would have been better if we hadn't seen so much in the previews before this week. Tahiti next week should be fun though!!
Ali first flies to Tampa to see Roberto. I am not sure if it was intentional, but both Roberto and Ali sort of looked like their shirts were made out of picnic table cloths. Ali giggles her way on up to Roberto and kisses and hugs ensue. Roberto used to play baseball in college and in the minors. Now he is an insurance salesman in South Carolina, but to show Ali who he used to be he takes her to the University of Tampa baseball field. He pulls out all the stops - he gives her a jersey, he puts on his old uniform, and he even tries to teach her to play. They relive his glory days for a bit. If I'm being honest, it looked like Ali could play, but who knows how many balls she missed before they got the take where she hit it. Then Roberto gives her his baseball card from her hometown, Williamstown, where he played for a team called the Steeplecats. I never noticed it before but Roberto has an enormous dent in his chin. KnitWit Meredith suggests that perhaps it's because Ali's face is always on his. Then they take a helicopter to his house. Just kidding! But you almost believed ABC would do that, didn't you! Ali meets Roberto's mom and dad, Olga and Roberto, Sr., his brother, Peter, sister, Olga, and sister-in-law, Kristen. Roberto, Sr. shows Ali the trophy shrine to Roberto, Jr. and is clearly very proud. He asks Ali her personal goals and if she would be willing to move for Roberto's job. She answers that she needs something fulfilling for her as well and would want to make choice based on what was best for their hypothetical family. Roberto's mom looks super youthful!! He was talking to her outside and I thought she was the sister! Roberto has a sweet talk with his mom and she gives him her blessing. Then they salsa dance and everyone's happy.
Ali's off to Cape Cod to hang out with Chris. The whole thing is idyllic. Yes, it is raining a little bit, but they are having fun. They are out on the beach throwing a ball for Chris' black lab, Jenny. I notice that Ali is wearing what I am pretty sure are the same killer boots from the Turkish market - not so appropriate for the beach. They are sinking in so much she might as well be wearing flats. Doesn't look like it is bothering her though - just me. She feels very at home in Massachusetts. They head to his house where he has lived with his dad since he moved home when his mom was sick. Chris shows Ali some photos of his mom and the rest of his family and then they hug it out. Sitting on the front porch of his awesome cottage, he tells her that his family is going to love her and then they smooch a little. The family comes home: Dad, brothers, Mark and Eric, sister-in-law, Meagan, and future sister-in-law, Sarah. Ali and Chris break out wine from their date in Portugal and share it with the family. Meagan and Sarah have on the same bracelets like the one Chris gave Ali in Portugal. Meagan also has Chris' mom's bracelet which is engraved "Love Is The Only Reality." Message received! The family all seems very natural and loving. They do talk about Chris' mother's death quite a bit, but somehow it's not depressing - it just shows this family's strength. Cute house, wonderful family, adorable dog - what more do you want?
Ali then visits Kirk in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Hugs and kisses! They are going to see his father and stepmother and then to his mother's house. The dad, stepmom and sister seem nice enough. I am sure it didn't quite go down like this, but simply put, Kirk's dad asks Ali if she would like to go see his basement. FYI - The answer to this question in all circumstances is "No." Next question : "Would you like to go first?" This is the question of a serial killer. Run Ali!!! And why isn't Kirk going with her? My mind went immediately to "It puts the lotion on its skin..." Ick. And really that's not that far off since Kirk's dad's basement is covered with dead animals. In his mind he is bringing these animals back to life, but they are oh so dead and cover every square inch of that basement. I have to hand it to Ali - she manages to keep it together and have a conversation with the man. I would have been too busy projectile vomiting. Let's move on. The most normal part of the visit is when they play soccer in the back yard with Kirk's cute little sister. They move on to Kirk's mom's house to have dinner with his grandmother, Arlene, mother, Tina, and sister, Tori (I think). They seem nice enough and everyone seems to like Ali. Ali seems still concerned because Kirk has not had a long-term relationship and might not be prepared to jump into marriage.
On to Chicago!! She and Frank hop on a boat to get a look at Chicago. Look, I know Frank is the fashionista here, but I really question his choice of shirt. I understand that it is some sort of designer fancy t-shirt, I don't care. It looks like an undershirt. Glad I got that off my chest. Ali and Frank chat on the boat and the same issues arise: Frank's insecurities about the relationship. Project much? Ali's a smart girl though and can see that maybe he is questioning his feelings too. They head to his house and meet his dad, Hank, mom, Debbie, sister, Becky, and brother-in-law, Chris. They are all nice and seem to have a great collective sense of humor. Ali chats with Debbie and then Becky. Frank also confides in his family that he is just trying to figure out if this is a forever type relationship. Broken record. But his family loves her and Frank thinks she fit right in. They kiss goodbye and she's off to LA!
Rose Ceremony!! Look, I think we all have some idea of who is going home. Ali is such a cheerful, silver-lining type gal, that she would never say anything about anyone's family, but one does stand out as being unusual. And by the way, I am not buying the whole sweetness and light act all the time - last season is not so long ago when Ali had an issue with Vienna and really could not let it go. We saw her inner bitch then. And as long as I am picking on her - what's with the dress? I didn't say anything last week, but she's pushing her luck. Anyway, let's give Ali the benefit of the doubt and allow that it was not the family that forced this decision. As they are standing in line Roberto and Chris are called first. Down to Frank and Kirk. And Frank takes the rose leaving Kirk high and dry. Kirk was completely shocked and hurt. He points out it is the first time anyone has ever broken up with him.
It really wasn't that exciting of an episode - would have been better if we hadn't seen so much in the previews before this week. Tahiti next week should be fun though!!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
My own little princess
Last fall I knit the first item I had ever made that actually had to fit. I had made scarves, hats, booties and the like, but never anything that would fit to a body. A pattern in Fairy Tale Knits inspired me to do just that.
The Cinderella dress on page 31 was what I thought would be a tremendous challenge, but wound up being a quite enjoyable project! I used the recommended yarn, Knit Picks Shine Sport in the butter color. This is a delightfully soft yarn that has a lovely sheen to it as well. I ordered it right off the Knit Picks website and received the yarn promptly. I won't say this was my fastest project as it is knit on size 4 and 3 needles, but then again, I wasn't knitting every night.
The dress knits from the bottom up and the waist is created by a row of intermittent decreases. Just thereafter it is knit in three sections: the back and both sides of the front, so you will need to keep live stitches on stitch holders while working individual sections. The sleeves are knit right on to the arm holes and the edging of the neck is knit on as well. All this means that there is minimal finishing - a knitters dream! The eyelet pattern serves as the buttonholes along the front, echoing the border on the bottom. The flowers at the waist are an easy knit and really could be made for a pin or to put on a headband - multiple purposes!
I would also like to comment that this is a beautiful book. The outside has a lovely texture and the patterns all look fabulous. Of course there are several dresses and fun things for girls, but I was also drawn in by the fact that there are so many patterns for boy knits. Pirate sweater, Robin Hood tunic, and Knight's chain maille - all look so cool! They will definitely be on my list to make for my son.
My happy daughter models the Cinderella dress!
The Cinderella dress on page 31 was what I thought would be a tremendous challenge, but wound up being a quite enjoyable project! I used the recommended yarn, Knit Picks Shine Sport in the butter color. This is a delightfully soft yarn that has a lovely sheen to it as well. I ordered it right off the Knit Picks website and received the yarn promptly. I won't say this was my fastest project as it is knit on size 4 and 3 needles, but then again, I wasn't knitting every night.
The dress knits from the bottom up and the waist is created by a row of intermittent decreases. Just thereafter it is knit in three sections: the back and both sides of the front, so you will need to keep live stitches on stitch holders while working individual sections. The sleeves are knit right on to the arm holes and the edging of the neck is knit on as well. All this means that there is minimal finishing - a knitters dream! The eyelet pattern serves as the buttonholes along the front, echoing the border on the bottom. The flowers at the waist are an easy knit and really could be made for a pin or to put on a headband - multiple purposes!
I would also like to comment that this is a beautiful book. The outside has a lovely texture and the patterns all look fabulous. Of course there are several dresses and fun things for girls, but I was also drawn in by the fact that there are so many patterns for boy knits. Pirate sweater, Robin Hood tunic, and Knight's chain maille - all look so cool! They will definitely be on my list to make for my son.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Baby's Denim Drawstring Pants
Knowing my affinity for baby items, you might not be surprised that I love these pants that guest KnitWit Susannah knit for her newborn twins. She carried those precious babies until 38 weeks and somehow managed to whip out two pairs of knitted denim baby pants!
Using the pattern on page 76 of Last-Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson, Susannah knit the smallest size, meant to fit babies 3-6 months. She used the recommended yarn, Rowan Denim (100% cotton) in it's natural cream color. Denim is expected to shrink, as Hoverson notes in her book, so the pattern accounts for that. Susannah says she had a little trouble making the legs the same length. Her babies are now 10 and 12 lbs. and the pants fit and have a little extra length so they have room to grow. She used circular needles rather than double pointed needles and found it much easier.
The pants are simply adorable and, according to Hoverson, should take about 4-6 hours to knit. Time well spent! Of course, Ned and Lela are so cute, what wouldn't look good on them? Thanks, Susannah!
Using the pattern on page 76 of Last-Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson, Susannah knit the smallest size, meant to fit babies 3-6 months. She used the recommended yarn, Rowan Denim (100% cotton) in it's natural cream color. Denim is expected to shrink, as Hoverson notes in her book, so the pattern accounts for that. Susannah says she had a little trouble making the legs the same length. Her babies are now 10 and 12 lbs. and the pants fit and have a little extra length so they have room to grow. She used circular needles rather than double pointed needles and found it much easier.
The pants are simply adorable and, according to Hoverson, should take about 4-6 hours to knit. Time well spent! Of course, Ned and Lela are so cute, what wouldn't look good on them? Thanks, Susannah!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Tickled to death...
Well, I was the only KnitWit present tonight and guess what?! I didn't knit. I may have to invite them for tomorrow since knitting night did fall on an observed holiday. That did not stop me from getting sucked into the Bachelorette!!
Next stop on the "world tour" is Lisbon, Portugal. Spoiler alert - this is a kind of boring episode, saved only by the fact that there was a slightly surprising rose ceremony and then a fun interview with Jake and Vienna. The men arrive and meet Chris Harrison in a sort of plaza for the low down on what's to come. Four dates, no roses on dates. Lots of birds in that square. A little Hitchcockian. And off they go!
*side note - Has anyone else noticed how much cooler Chris Harrison is with the bachelors than when there is a group of bachelorettes? He always wears a suit for the girls and is very formal, bordering on scripted. But with the guys it's all very hip, laid back Chris Harrison - open collar, kind of metro, and his language gets a little more street. Like the information they got last week from Jessie was "legit." I might watch this show too much.
First one-on-one date is for Roberto. Ali and Roberto start the date by wandering/dancing/kissing in the streets of Lisbon, taking photos of each other jumping around. Roberto is a terrible photographer. She says that she is having fun and that she likes that Roberto is not afraid of being goofy and silly with her. But I don't see that. In fact, as much I have a positive feeling about Roberto, we know very little about him. He pretty much keeps his cool. He is a good looking guy and clearly Ali is attracted to him, but he is kind of quiet. Guest KnitWit Susannah, who comes to KnitWits when she is visiting from Concord, MA, once told me that in college they referred to guys who were really nice to look at but didn't have much beyond that as "baseball players." Guess what Roberto really was? That might not bother Ali, but I'm just saying...Back to the show. Roberto and Ali take a cable car around town and smooch most of the time. They climb to the top of an old castle and drink wine and munch on some goodies. Ali tells Roberto that he is kind of a mystery to her. Hint to Ali - if you want to figure him out, stop kissing him so much and talk to him. You aren't going to solve that mystery by sucking the answers out of his face. Roberto says he keeps things simple and values the little things. Ah - how poignant and at the same time how vague. Ali says Roberto amazes her and she thinks he could really be the one for her.
Second date is a two-on-one with Frank, Ty and Ali. Awkward! She takes them on a helicopter (surprise!) to get a bird's eye view of Portugal. Ali is finding it very hard to be on a date with two guys and is feeling the pressure of choosing whose home she will be going to next week. They go to a castle that belonged to Queen Isabella and things get weirder at the intimate dinner for three. Ali asks Ty to come talk to her so she can ask the questions she can't ask in mixed company. They sit on a doorstep and talk about Ty's family. Ty assures her that they would love her even though she plans to work. He says they will base their judgment on how he feels about her. Ty goes further to say it "tickles him to death" to know that Ali has a plan. He make think that's reassuring, but really it's condescending. You want to have a job? Isn't that cute. And what guy says "tickles?" If you know one who does, tell him to stop. That is not a guy thing to say. Better yet, punch him in the mouth and tell him to man up. Then Ali has a little alone time with Frank. They take their wine and go nestle under/in a huge tree. It disappoints me that Frank needs the "I" v. "me" grammar lesson. Grrr. Frank confesses that he lives with his parents and Ali doesn't care. So they make out for a bit. At least she had not been kissing Ty beforehand. That is a huge pet peeve of mine. It makes me want to fed ex them some Listerine. Ali says Frank is everything she wants but everything that she fears.
Date three is Kirk - he and Ali start off with wine and snacks in the city. Ali is wearing a really cute sparkly top that I want to steal. Then they take a carriage ride up a mountainside to a palace. They are sort of snuggling, but Ali is holding back. She confesses she has a lot on her mind. He thinks she is nervous because hometown visits are a big deal. She says the date isn't going as well as she wanted it to go. They have a romantic dinner on the rooftop of the palace and Kirk tells Ali he wants her to be honest with him for better or worse. He thinks the illness he had in the past has made him more open to love and feels more deserving than in the past. Kisses!! Ali is back in the game! They are serenaded by some really talented performers - singer and two guitars and make out some more. Ali feels better about Kirk than earlier.
Chris takes Ali on the fourth date. They go for a scooter ride and Chris has never driven one before. He is driving really slowly. Like someone's grandmother would drive in her wheelchair. He says it is because he doesn't want to be the guy who kills the bachelorette. Chris, the only way she's dying is of old age by the time you get to the destination. Ali gets in the driver's seat and burns rubber to get them to their seaside vista spot before the cameramen lose their light. Ali asks Chris about his mom. All joking aside, I think Chris is really sincere with Ali and I think it's sweet that his cheeks get flushed when he is talking to her. You can tell that he genuinely likes her. They then go to a winery and Chris opens up more and more which Ali likes. Chris gives her a bracelet he had made for her before he came, but only feels comfortable giving now that they have progressed to this stage. His hands are shaking as he puts it on Ali's wrist. Chris can't wait to take her to his home and show her off. Kissing and more kissing. They walk around outside the winery. He picks a flower for her and they roll around on the grass smooching and holding each other. Ali thinks their relationship has moved ahead leaps and bounds.
Rose ceremony time! It's raining outside and four roses await. Ali is in the deliberation room and she's picking up the photos of Chris and Kirk - who will she send home? Ty!! Awww snap, ABC! You tricked us! Darn your fine editors for mixing in the helicopter footage of Ty in Portugal amongst the other footage of Tahiti! You got me! So taking Ali to their hometowns are Chris, Frank, Roberto and Kirk. Previews show that Kirk's dad is the taxidermist and that Frank's secret has something to do with another girl - oh yes, the cameras are rolling!
Now on to the Jake and Vienna interview. It's not really so much an interview as Chris Harrison and Jake sitting quasi-politely while Vienna rants about how horrible Jake is and how nothing is her fault, including selling her story to a tabloid. Vienna makes several accusations about Jake: that he left her alone all the time, would never be intimate, moved her to LA away from her family, would not get to know her family, and many other petty details. Jake finds her emasculating, undermining, selfish and can't believe she would sell her story to be in the spotlight. Vienna cries a lot and interrupts Jake any time he tries to talk. Her only excuse for selling her story is that she knew he would sell his and she wanted to have her story heard. Jake maintains that he wouldn't. I'd go into more detail, but it wouldn't change anything. It's just Vienna nervously accusing Jake of stuff and Jake using the "no, I didn't" defense. Vienna storms off crying. Who would have thought their relationship would have fallen apart? What is this world coming to? I am starting to question if anything is real anymore.
On an up note, even though I DVR The Bachelorette, my sharp eyes caught an ad that made me screech to a halt. The Bachelor Pad starting August 9th. Faces that made go "Hey, there's what's her name!!" That's right, ladies and gents: Bachelor/ette rejects are all living in the same house vying for love and a chance at a quarter of a million dollars. Count me in! I checked the website and Jesse, Mean Craig and the Weatherman from this season will all be there. David G. from Jillian's season (codename:Anger Management to the KnitWits) and his pal Juan (codename: Lunchie) are all in along with lots of bachelorettes from Jake's season: Tenley, Gia, Jessie, Michelle K. (mental issues!) and Elizabeth who wouldn't kiss Jake. Oh yes, and Kiptyn and Wes from Jillian's season. This is happening, people!!
Next stop on the "world tour" is Lisbon, Portugal. Spoiler alert - this is a kind of boring episode, saved only by the fact that there was a slightly surprising rose ceremony and then a fun interview with Jake and Vienna. The men arrive and meet Chris Harrison in a sort of plaza for the low down on what's to come. Four dates, no roses on dates. Lots of birds in that square. A little Hitchcockian. And off they go!
*side note - Has anyone else noticed how much cooler Chris Harrison is with the bachelors than when there is a group of bachelorettes? He always wears a suit for the girls and is very formal, bordering on scripted. But with the guys it's all very hip, laid back Chris Harrison - open collar, kind of metro, and his language gets a little more street. Like the information they got last week from Jessie was "legit." I might watch this show too much.
First one-on-one date is for Roberto. Ali and Roberto start the date by wandering/dancing/kissing in the streets of Lisbon, taking photos of each other jumping around. Roberto is a terrible photographer. She says that she is having fun and that she likes that Roberto is not afraid of being goofy and silly with her. But I don't see that. In fact, as much I have a positive feeling about Roberto, we know very little about him. He pretty much keeps his cool. He is a good looking guy and clearly Ali is attracted to him, but he is kind of quiet. Guest KnitWit Susannah, who comes to KnitWits when she is visiting from Concord, MA, once told me that in college they referred to guys who were really nice to look at but didn't have much beyond that as "baseball players." Guess what Roberto really was? That might not bother Ali, but I'm just saying...Back to the show. Roberto and Ali take a cable car around town and smooch most of the time. They climb to the top of an old castle and drink wine and munch on some goodies. Ali tells Roberto that he is kind of a mystery to her. Hint to Ali - if you want to figure him out, stop kissing him so much and talk to him. You aren't going to solve that mystery by sucking the answers out of his face. Roberto says he keeps things simple and values the little things. Ah - how poignant and at the same time how vague. Ali says Roberto amazes her and she thinks he could really be the one for her.
Second date is a two-on-one with Frank, Ty and Ali. Awkward! She takes them on a helicopter (surprise!) to get a bird's eye view of Portugal. Ali is finding it very hard to be on a date with two guys and is feeling the pressure of choosing whose home she will be going to next week. They go to a castle that belonged to Queen Isabella and things get weirder at the intimate dinner for three. Ali asks Ty to come talk to her so she can ask the questions she can't ask in mixed company. They sit on a doorstep and talk about Ty's family. Ty assures her that they would love her even though she plans to work. He says they will base their judgment on how he feels about her. Ty goes further to say it "tickles him to death" to know that Ali has a plan. He make think that's reassuring, but really it's condescending. You want to have a job? Isn't that cute. And what guy says "tickles?" If you know one who does, tell him to stop. That is not a guy thing to say. Better yet, punch him in the mouth and tell him to man up. Then Ali has a little alone time with Frank. They take their wine and go nestle under/in a huge tree. It disappoints me that Frank needs the "I" v. "me" grammar lesson. Grrr. Frank confesses that he lives with his parents and Ali doesn't care. So they make out for a bit. At least she had not been kissing Ty beforehand. That is a huge pet peeve of mine. It makes me want to fed ex them some Listerine. Ali says Frank is everything she wants but everything that she fears.
Date three is Kirk - he and Ali start off with wine and snacks in the city. Ali is wearing a really cute sparkly top that I want to steal. Then they take a carriage ride up a mountainside to a palace. They are sort of snuggling, but Ali is holding back. She confesses she has a lot on her mind. He thinks she is nervous because hometown visits are a big deal. She says the date isn't going as well as she wanted it to go. They have a romantic dinner on the rooftop of the palace and Kirk tells Ali he wants her to be honest with him for better or worse. He thinks the illness he had in the past has made him more open to love and feels more deserving than in the past. Kisses!! Ali is back in the game! They are serenaded by some really talented performers - singer and two guitars and make out some more. Ali feels better about Kirk than earlier.
Chris takes Ali on the fourth date. They go for a scooter ride and Chris has never driven one before. He is driving really slowly. Like someone's grandmother would drive in her wheelchair. He says it is because he doesn't want to be the guy who kills the bachelorette. Chris, the only way she's dying is of old age by the time you get to the destination. Ali gets in the driver's seat and burns rubber to get them to their seaside vista spot before the cameramen lose their light. Ali asks Chris about his mom. All joking aside, I think Chris is really sincere with Ali and I think it's sweet that his cheeks get flushed when he is talking to her. You can tell that he genuinely likes her. They then go to a winery and Chris opens up more and more which Ali likes. Chris gives her a bracelet he had made for her before he came, but only feels comfortable giving now that they have progressed to this stage. His hands are shaking as he puts it on Ali's wrist. Chris can't wait to take her to his home and show her off. Kissing and more kissing. They walk around outside the winery. He picks a flower for her and they roll around on the grass smooching and holding each other. Ali thinks their relationship has moved ahead leaps and bounds.
Rose ceremony time! It's raining outside and four roses await. Ali is in the deliberation room and she's picking up the photos of Chris and Kirk - who will she send home? Ty!! Awww snap, ABC! You tricked us! Darn your fine editors for mixing in the helicopter footage of Ty in Portugal amongst the other footage of Tahiti! You got me! So taking Ali to their hometowns are Chris, Frank, Roberto and Kirk. Previews show that Kirk's dad is the taxidermist and that Frank's secret has something to do with another girl - oh yes, the cameras are rolling!
Now on to the Jake and Vienna interview. It's not really so much an interview as Chris Harrison and Jake sitting quasi-politely while Vienna rants about how horrible Jake is and how nothing is her fault, including selling her story to a tabloid. Vienna makes several accusations about Jake: that he left her alone all the time, would never be intimate, moved her to LA away from her family, would not get to know her family, and many other petty details. Jake finds her emasculating, undermining, selfish and can't believe she would sell her story to be in the spotlight. Vienna cries a lot and interrupts Jake any time he tries to talk. Her only excuse for selling her story is that she knew he would sell his and she wanted to have her story heard. Jake maintains that he wouldn't. I'd go into more detail, but it wouldn't change anything. It's just Vienna nervously accusing Jake of stuff and Jake using the "no, I didn't" defense. Vienna storms off crying. Who would have thought their relationship would have fallen apart? What is this world coming to? I am starting to question if anything is real anymore.
On an up note, even though I DVR The Bachelorette, my sharp eyes caught an ad that made me screech to a halt. The Bachelor Pad starting August 9th. Faces that made go "Hey, there's what's her name!!" That's right, ladies and gents: Bachelor/ette rejects are all living in the same house vying for love and a chance at a quarter of a million dollars. Count me in! I checked the website and Jesse, Mean Craig and the Weatherman from this season will all be there. David G. from Jillian's season (codename:Anger Management to the KnitWits) and his pal Juan (codename: Lunchie) are all in along with lots of bachelorettes from Jake's season: Tenley, Gia, Jessie, Michelle K. (mental issues!) and Elizabeth who wouldn't kiss Jake. Oh yes, and Kiptyn and Wes from Jillian's season. This is happening, people!!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Thursday, July 1, 2010
itty-bitty nursery
Knitting books are an addiction. If you already knit, you probably have experienced this. If you don't, it is something like looking at pictures of beautiful food in cookbooks and thinking - I could make that! For example, my last two birthdays my activity of choice has been to go to the bookstore and sit on the floor looking at knitting books. And my sweet husband obliged.
I love knitted items for babies and children. In the Mason-Dixon knitting book, they refer to it as "precious knits syndrome" and I kind of think I have it. Knitting only those items that are darling and not necessarily practical or functional. KnitWit Mary Beth and KnitWit Joy have knit dishcloths and bags, etc. among their other fancier knits. KnitWit Amy frequently knits clothing. I just feel compelled by baby things. So cute and no end of babies to whom I can give them.
I recently got a book called itty bitty nursery. I have not knit anything from this book yet, but I would knit every pattern in the book, the photos are so cute. I mean seriously you might get sugar shock the stuff is so sweet. It's a hardback book that is really well made. It has a sort of spiral binding on the inside of the hardback that means that the page stays open to the page you are on. An excellent feature for knitters. The weight of the paper is a little heavier than normal meaning this book is going to last. The patterns range from sweaters and hats to toys and mobiles. I am dying to make the cupcake hat and scarf on p. 113, but I need to get the yarn.
I'll revisit this when I have actually knitted the hats. They join a long list of items I know I will knit, but not sure when.
I love knitted items for babies and children. In the Mason-Dixon knitting book, they refer to it as "precious knits syndrome" and I kind of think I have it. Knitting only those items that are darling and not necessarily practical or functional. KnitWit Mary Beth and KnitWit Joy have knit dishcloths and bags, etc. among their other fancier knits. KnitWit Amy frequently knits clothing. I just feel compelled by baby things. So cute and no end of babies to whom I can give them.
I recently got a book called itty bitty nursery. I have not knit anything from this book yet, but I would knit every pattern in the book, the photos are so cute. I mean seriously you might get sugar shock the stuff is so sweet. It's a hardback book that is really well made. It has a sort of spiral binding on the inside of the hardback that means that the page stays open to the page you are on. An excellent feature for knitters. The weight of the paper is a little heavier than normal meaning this book is going to last. The patterns range from sweaters and hats to toys and mobiles. I am dying to make the cupcake hat and scarf on p. 113, but I need to get the yarn.
I'll revisit this when I have actually knitted the hats. They join a long list of items I know I will knit, but not sure when.
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