I've changed my mind (so what's new). I'm going to leave the details of our trip away for another time and concentrate, instead, on the knitting. Much more satisfying :)
Finished Objects to report:
1. The Swallowtail Shawl from Evelyn Clarke (scroll down to access free pattern) in Noro Sock Yarn. This has been in my "to knits" since it first appeared in Interweave Knits in 2006. It is a straightforward, quick knit and I think it looks lovely in the Noro. The unblocked FO is quite small, so I was ruthless with the blocking. I have already given this away to a work colleague/friend for her birthday. I'm sorry to say that I'm not sure she really likes it. She enthused enough on the day but hasn't worn it since and has worn a shop purchased scarf absolutely every single day of the week :( I tell myself I don't really mind, but truth is, I do. A lot of work and kind thoughts went into this scarf, damnit. Sigh....
2. Beaded Lace Scarf 2 - another one. I know, I know I said I wasn't knitting anymore, but this one is for me. It is in Nature's Palette from HandJive Knits and I simply adore it. This baby isn't leaving this house unless it is on my shoulders.

Further progress was made on my version of the Melon Scarf from Victorian Lace Today:
And a close up of the pretty pattern:
When it is blocked the pattern will open out more and look lovely. But... it is a very boring knit. A 6 row repeat where row 5 is the only slightly exciting row. I am now a little more than half way through and I'm hanging in there making myself get through it.
I have begun another pair of socks - please, I don't want to talk about all the single and other unfinished socks I have in my baskets - that is what therapy is for :)
This is the Show Off Stranded Sock pattern (a freebie - don't ya just love that) knitted in STR silk/merino knit. Mmmmm... almost good enough to eat.
Now for the good news and the bad news. First, the good - my yarn for our knitalong of Muir has arrived:
This is a merino/silk lace weight in pomegranate hues from Schaeffer Yarns which I purchased from Little Knits. One of my favourite online suppliers - always good prices and they keep their postage as low as possible; even refunding when they can. Great service!
And the bad news - in the same parcel, I received:
I joined Ravelympics! From the Opening Ceremony through to the Closing one, I have commited to knitting the above. 17 short days, one large vest for Her Dad. I'm not sure I can do it, but it will be fun trying. But... this means no Muir until I'm through. Hope you don't mind. Wish me luck; arms and hands that don't go down on me; and good knitting weather.
Enough for now...