Weekly update, sans photos

I have four projects going now–the Goddess Knits anniversary mystery shawl, on which I am trying to work at least two rounds a day; the MS9, on which I am starting clue 2 tonight; the Bad Cat Designs Summer Sampler Study, on which I am working pattern 8 today; and a skirt of my own design, which is moving along quickly, now that the low section, which has changing pattern repeats, is complete.  My pace has increased quite a bit lately, partly because I am desperate for time alone in the crazy summer months (I have four children age eight and under, and work at home at night), and am trying to make that time for knitting and thinking–less of other possible leisure/entertainment activities.

After these projects, I’m planning to knit patterns I can see ahead of time. The Mystery Knitalongs are fun, but I sometimes find myself unconvinced as I work away at these endless rounds. And by reading some of the blogs listed on this site, I have found some gorgeous patterns that I intend to work on soon. My goal is to wear a shawl or two around, so I can convince friends, relatives, and acquaintances to purchase expensive yarn that I will then knit up for them. So far so good. At a family even yesterday I had three people starting to deal with me. Fun! I have enough Malabrigo laceweight and cashmere for a few more projects, but then other people are going to have to help me out. I’ll exchange a lovely shawl for the pleasure of working lace in fine yarn any day.