I'm delighted to have finished my first (1 of 2) toe-up sock, Lacey Ribs by Wendy Johnson. This was a wonderful exercise in firsts with few frustrations. Thanks to Wendy's instructions,  Knitty.com, and the exquisite teachings of Cat Bordhi via YouTube, I was able to learn and execute the Figure-8 Cast On and Jenny's Super Stretchy Bind Off without a hitch, not to mention doing it all on two circulars. In fact, the only "hitch" was unbinding off after figuring last night that I could do a regular loose bind off and be happy with it. Nope.  Note to self: Don't make decisions like this late at night. It almost always ends in a clearer head prevailing the next day and having to undo what you've done to take the more challenging but satisfying route.

I base this success on the accessibility of information both from Wendy's book and from the Internet. Granted, I would far have preferred the joy of being able to sit down with a learned friend or neighbor to reap the benefits of their experiences, but in today's world I sadly find those opportunities few and far between. So, Wendy, Cat and all the rest of you experienced knitters in cyberville... I'm glad to be your neighbor.

Last night I started my first toe-up sock on two circular needles using the Figure 8 Cast-On.  Very neat how it works out. This method was easy to master, so next time I will try Judy Becker's Magic Cast-On.  I'm using the Lacy Ribs pattern from Wendy Johnson's Socks from the Toe Up book.  This is a perfect pattern for nearly mindless knitting sessions while watching TV or for picking up when presented with a bit of knitting time whereever you happen to be in the world.

I am using Shibui sock yarn from ShibuiKnits in the jewel colorway. The company's "mulberry", "wisteria", "emerald" and "wasabi" color descriptions sound as luscious as this yarn looks.  I am quite taken with this 100% ultrawash merino wool fiber, enjoy working with it, and love the silky feel and look to it on my needles.  I am quite sure my feet will agree.

NOTE TO SELF:  No matter how easy the pattern, put the knitting needles down upon accepting a second glass of wine. I will have one row of back-tracking to do tonight as a result of last night's second serving.