Ahoy! I’m hoping to sweep out the cobwebs here (more on that in a later post) and get back to writing at least semi-regularly — and what better way to reenter than with a Yarnalong post!
Knitting: The Felix Cardigan by Amy Christoffers. My mom and I cast these on when she was visiting us and our new arrival a few weeks ago. Progress hasn’t been the fastest (see: new arrival + still working on other projects) but I divided for the sleeves last night and am looking forward to the shorter rows that will bring. I’m not used to using such big needles (knitting on a US 10/ 6 mm) and they’ve been a bit hard on my hands. But, left hand willing, I’m hoping to make enough progress to give this a quick try on today and make sure the fit in the shoulders is good!
I’m knitting this in the called for yarn, Green Mountain Spinnery’s Mountain Mohair, in shade Raven. I really like the deep charcoal and know it’ll be a great wardrobe staple. The single ply 75% wool 25% mohair blend makes a fabric that seems lofty but sturdy. I think it will make for a cardigan that’s warm but not as heavy as you might expect from a garment knit in worsted weight yarn.
Reading: I’ve got two books on the go at the moment. The first is This Golden Fleece, a really interesting combination of personal knitting memoir and Britain’s knitting and woolly history. I’m nearly halfway through, but with it being a hardback, I’m finding it easiest to read when I’m not holding or feeding a little babe — so progress is a bit slow. When I can catch time for a quick soak in the tub, reading a few more pages of this is a real treat!
The second book is The Familiars, historical fiction set in 17th-century Lancaster during the Pendle witch trials. Commemorations of the Pendle witches are everywhere around Lancaster, and I’m really enjoying reading something set where I live! I’m enjoying spending time with the first person narrator, even though the world she inhabits is a bit lonely and sad. Once I start reading it, it’s hard to put down … luckily, Mr N got me a Kindle for my birthday which makes it ever so much easier to read while breastfeeding!
Head on over the original Yarnalong to see what other knitters are working on and reading this week!
fiber and sustenance 
So much good stuff, Katherine! Thank you! I’ll check out both of the books and can’t wait to see the progress on your cardigan. Wishing you every wonderful thing in your life with little Felix!! ❤️
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That cardigan will be lovely. I wish I could touch it. I am always on the lookout for a mohair blend that isn’t too scratchy. Did you know that if you can use immersion reading on your kindle (depending on which model you have), it will turn the pages for you? Of course, you’ll have to buy both the audio book and the digital version, but it is so helpful when your hands aren’t free. I use it when I work out.
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That will be a great cardigan! Both the books you’re reading sound very interesting. Thanks for the recomendations!
And congratulations on the new arrival, she’s beautiful!
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Ooohh! I just added This Golden Fleece to my goodreads. It sounds like a good read. I’m also intrigued by The Familiars. I added it to my list as well for further exploration later. YAY for the gift of a Kindle so you can read on the go.
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Can’t wait to see more of your cardigan. Added the ebook to my TBR as I love a good witch story. Glad you’re doing well across the pond.
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