Fartlek

This hat is still a wee bit damp, but it will be ready to travel this weekend.

Fartlek.  I was curious about the name for this hat, so I did a little digging.  Fartlek is Swedish for speed play.  It's a word that's used to describe a method of training for runners.  It's unstructured 
training - fast running followed by easier running.  The idea is to keep the running varied and thus reduce boredom.  This pattern has different texture options, so you can mix it up and keep it interesting. Knitting shouldn't be boring.

Timing is everything . . . I just discussed fartlek with my son as he headed out for his run.  He was a bit skeptical and the connection with knitting was totally lost on him, but now he has something to think about while he's running.  Fartlek is the vocabulary word for the day. See if you can use it in daily conversation.

The yarn is Bertha Sport, colorway Mulled Wine.  This Merino, Cashmere, Nylon blend is perfect for a soft hat.

Even in the dead of winter there are a few bright patches of color. This week's color inspiration . . . 

Moss with a snow cap.

While the Yarn Dries . . .

My knitting plans for this week included a new booth sample.  One thing led to another.  I debated about the color, and then I almost switched patterns.  The whole project went back and forth several times before I got a grip on the situation.

Once I had settled on the details, I had to dye the yarn.  No big deal. In and out of the pot.  But I got antsy waiting for the yarn to dry, and this is what happened.

Fartlek.  A quick hat project.  This hat was on my list, so I made a slight shift in the schedule.  As for the yarn I'm waiting on, last time I checked it was still damp.  Maybe it will be dry today.

I've been watching this ice form.  It's chilly gray with a bit of color trapped beneath the surface.  This week's color inspiration . . . 

Icy leaves.