Menkreatikkul; Saturday Stitches

I've had a productive week. Last weekend, Mac1 asked if I would make some items for a couple of her running and kayaking chums: a headband and wrist warmers for one lady, and just a pair of wrist warmers for another. I produced all five items on Saturday in simple crochet; for the headband set, it was a straightforward single crochet (UK double) back-loop-ridged pattern, and for the other wristbands, I opted for a half-double and double crochet (UK triple) front-and-back post alternate ribbing pattern. When she left for the ferry early on Sunday, I realised I hadn't photographed them for you! I did find this image of the scbl stitching on Google Images, courtesy of Nordic Hook:

That's actually not too far from being the colour of yarn I used for that set, either... mine was slightly more to the blue (aqua). The other set was in a multicoloured cotton, and whilst this example with the front post ribbing is all done in line, you get the idea of the texture achieved. By offsetting the stitches on each row, the effect was closer to a basket-weave than straight ribbing. I will make some more for myself this way, because they were really comfy and looked rather fab.

That got me started back on the small wearables, quick results sort of gig again, so I had a trawl through some of my bookmarked patterns for inspiration and ways to use up yet more of my not inconsiderable yarn stash. There were quite a few that were calling to me...

I began with this one because it is called EDINBURGH EVENINGS... I mean, how could I not?!! Due to getting back into knitting, my crochet mojo had been on the back burner somewhat. The items from last Saturday proved to me why I love the craft so much - it is waaaay faster than knitting (for me at least). Knitting requires rather more concentration, whilst I can crochet with my eyes closed. 

That's not a joke, BTW...

Anyhoo... 

That's me using up more of my cheap-and-cheerful acrylic stash. You see it here seconds after the final stitch and, therefore, unblocked - but I may not even do that, because it shows up pretty well as is. I may go on to produce matching beanie and mitts, but not quite yet. It was a very easy two-row repeat pattern using linked triple (UK double triple) and chain stitching - a perfect podcast or telly-watching ... or, indeed, eyes-closed project! This is the third pattern I have taken from Moogly's website, and they have all been brilliantly written, so I can highly recommend them.

That was done over three evenings, and I had one night without anything in my hands. That needed remedying. The next project I selected required knitting in the round... but I had left the circular set down in The Grey. I could have walked to where he is parked and got them... however, I also was due to get my challenge of using double-pointed needles back on the go. I had not done anything since the first attempt half a year ago. Thus, the next thing got cast on... Will report on that next week!

Menoturals; First Friday Filmclub

As always, I am joining the LLB gang for a Nature Friday blog hop. Today I bring you a fascinating short documentary about teaching birds to sing in Argentina! No kidding. If, like me, you also appreciate a written article on the subject to help absorb the importance of what is being presented, then go to this page. I am most captivated by the fact that somebody decided to create a written version of birdsong... and that this fellow could translate and use it for teaching new generations! 

Menoginculkanating; Taking Stuff In

Haven't given you a podcast rundown for a while... Most of you know by now that I am rather fond of this alternative to radio listening. The stalwart 'eternals' are still there: Empire, The Rest Is Politics, Leading, Legacy... (if you've forgotten or are newer to my ramblings, click the podcast label below to see where all my ears have been!)

Among the long-term pods, I scatter limited series... I do tend to lean towards history, true crime, topical stuff, but occasionally break ranks for something more 'arty', or fictional. 

Of the former style, I can heartily recommend the four-part series from the University of Leeds called...

Death of a Poet.

This is a lovely ASMR sort of production, with lots of ambient country sounds. Regional accents and readings from the poet's work help the soft investigative thread, as we discover more about one of England's quiet poetry heroes, John Nicholson, who is likened somewhat to Scotland's bard, Robert Burns: this is mainly due to the rural connections more than the quality of the works. There is a tacit acknowledgement along the way that this puts JN in a positive light and may tarnish oor Rabbie! A very enjoyable afternoon's listening.

When it comes to the fictional, I am savouring this series by Goalhanger Productions, from the same team who created the most excellent Sherlock & Co (which I've mentioned once or twice before). 

Bear Hunt.

I am giving you the Spotify link only because that is where I listen, but you can search on your own preferred platform. Unlike most of the other pods here today, this one doesn't appear to have an individual launch page.

This is for those who enjoy spy/adventure stuff that reflects current geopolitical landscapes... not for the anxious, though!

There are several different subjects to be discovered on the BBC Sounds Channel under the title of 

Tortoise.

Investigative reporting on things that may have slipped under the radar...

This one is, again, quite challenging, but - I think - an important listen. The 13th Step.

"...The founder of New Hampshire’s largest addiction treatment network was sexually harassing or assaulting women – allegations he denies. How did he get away with it? ... Lauren Chooljian ... found a longstanding ... culture of sexual misconduct. A phenomenon people in the recovery world call “the 13th step.”

This series is about failures in an industry that is supposed to be dedicated to healing. It’s also about the limits of the #MeToo movement. And journalism. How deep can you dig for the truth before it gets dangerous?

Note: Some of this audio contains explicit language."

More investigative podcasting - one which is dripping with accolades.

Bear Brook.

This production (now in its third season) is firmly in the true crime category. 

One of the things I really appreciate about this one is that the dedicated landing website is more than just a pod launch pad. There are excellent notes and images and, overall, it's a complete morsel.

To complete the set for this one, there is the discovery of a family secret.

Deep Secrets.

I was unfamiliar with Hunter Hill, but a lot of you over in the States may recognise the name... he's a stand-up comedian, among other things. He and his sister start to investigate the history of their grandfather with a view to better understanding father/son dynamics. It ended up as something of a boy's own adventure!