Happy New Year!

I have some exciting knitting news about my first FO of 2007, but I'm keeping it for the end of this post (scroll down if you want to see that first).

Welcoming 2007 in the spirit of renewal and self-discovery, I decided to look up what my name means. I entered my full given name as stated on my birth certificate(i.e: MezzoDiva's alter ego in the physical world).

Wow. This really is true to me. Go to the What Your Name Means quiz here if you want to try it.

There are 17 letters in your name. Those 17 letters total to 75. There are 6 vowels and 11 consonants in your name. Your first name means wise defender (Teutonic & Spanish); counsel; mighty protection; guards wisely (German). Well, I tend to be a pitbull about fighting for the rights of the underdog (other people whose rights I perceive as being trampled) in unfair situations, so the defender part's correct, and I will even concede the wisdom (in regard to helping others, that is - w.r.t my own life, well, let's just say I'm learning).

Your Personal number is 3. Characteristics of #3 are expression, verbalization, socialization, the arts, and the joy of living. The expression of 3 produces a quest for destiny with words, a variety of lines that may include writing, speaking, singing, acting or teaching; [People with personal number 3 are] our entertainers, writers, litigators, teachers, salesmen, and composers. You also have the destiny to sell yourself or sell just about any product that comes along. Yeah - all that fits me on so many levels - especially the last part because in my biz 90% of my job is to audition. You are imaginative in your presentation, and you have creative talents in the arts, although these may be latent.

You are an optimistic person who seems ever enthusiastic about life and living. You are friendly, loving and social, and people like you because you are charming and such a good conversationalist. Your ability to communicate may often inspire others. It is your role in life to inspire and motivate; to raise the spirits of those around you.And maybe I tend to play that role too often. I am working very hard to allow the less entertaining but equally authentic parts of myself to come out of isolation too.

The negative side of number 3 expression is superficiality. You may tend to scatter your forces and simply be too easygoing. It is advisable for the negative 3 to avoid dwelling on trivial matters, especially gossip.Ummm... yeah. Like she said.

Your Soul Urge number is 2. Your motivation is centered on relationships: friendships, partnerships, and companionship. You want to work with others as a part of a cooperative team. Leadership is not important to you, but making a contribution to the team effort is. You are willing to work hard to achieve a harmonious environment with sensitive, genial people. My favourite and most fulfilling experiences have been in collaborative situations, creating and developing ensemble projects with others both on and off stage.

In a positive sense, the 2 Soul Urge is sympathetic, extremely concerned and devoted. The nature tends to be very sensitive to others, always tactful and diplomatic. This element in your nature indicates that you are rather emotional. You are persuasive, but in a very quiet way, never forceful. (Will someone please tell my darling husband to stop laughing so hard.) You are the type that makes really close friendships because you are so affectionate and loving. If this number is over-emphasized in your makeup, you may be over-sensitive, with a delicate ego that is too easily hurt. You may be timid or fearful, too easygoing for your own good.

Your Inner Dream number is 1. You dream of being a leader and one who is in charge. You want to be known for your courage, daring, and original ideas. You seek unconquered heights. People may get a first impression that you are very aggressive and sure of yourself. (I tend to compensate for that later.)

Okay. Enough navel-gazing.

I am simply giddy to report that MY OWN FIRST PATTERN - my favourite lace socks - is ready for beta testing!

I showed off sock number one at an informal SnB at Knitomatic last Friday. LYS owner and friend Haley, she of the pretty feet and ankles, tried it on and modeled for us and everyone said it is very beautiful. I have to agree - it even looks good on my plump tootsies and ankles (but I won't inflict them on you).

I spent the holiday weekend making up the second sock by attempting to strictly follow my notes and I've done it! The notes were then translated into what I think are clear instructions, but I might be mistaken about that, since I'm pretty good at reading my own mind.

Now I need to enlist a few intrepid test-knitters to try knitting from my pattern directions and provide feedback to help me debug the pattern.

The socks were knitted toe-up with a provisional cast on. Some familiarity with lace would be helpful, but it's not very hard. I made them using the magic loop method, but the pattern will also work on two circulars or dpns.

If you're interested and willing to be a guinea pig, please let me know ASAP.

Thanks!!

Lots more knitting news soon.