Friday, April 08, 2011

Pre-Tax Season Sock Yarn and Storey Knitting Book Giveaway!

It's been a really busy week here - lots of time doing things that really are not blog-worthy. Going to Boston for an eye doctor appointment with Julia (she is fine), getting my hair fixed so I don't look like a grandma, and the dreaded organization of all the pre-tax filing information. That is what I hate the most and I can say that I don't know how accountants do it all the time. I'm almost done....  so I will celebrate with my next blogiversary giveaway for you all!


I've done two books with the fine folks at Storey Publishing and I count my editor Gwen as a good friend. She's an amazingly kind woman with a vast array of talents. She and her husband keep sheep, she is an amazing gardener, knitter, weaver, and craftsperson. I'm sure she cooks (although I don't know this for sure). She has three grown children (her daughter is named Kristin too) and a granddaughter who is the apple of her eye. As an editor, she is so calm and kind... never nagging.... If she needs a change or has another idea, it is suggested in the kindest, least threatening way. This is a very good way to work with an author and I feel blessed to have had that experience. I took this photo of her several years ago when we were shooting Kristin Knits. She really does pretty much always look this calm. Man, oh man, I wish I could be! 


As an editor, Gwen gets extremely involved with all parts of any book she works on. She is always knitting... sometimes filling in holes with project designs. Like this project.... a easy to knit mitten design Gwen did for Storey's new best-selling Sock Yarn: 101 One Skein Wonders. The yarn is my Best Foot Forward.


Today I've got a great giveaway..... 4 craft titles donated by Storey:
Hand Dyeing Yarn and Fleece by the lovely Gail Callahan (aka The Kangaroo Dyer)
Crochet Borders by the witty Edie Eckman
Handmade Marketplace by Kari Chapin who I had the pleasure to meet just recently at the Webs Author Day in late March
Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks! by Judith Durant



AND 5 skeins of my Best Foot Forward Sock Yarn donated by the kind folks at Nashua Handknits/Westminster Fibers!


Here's how you enter: Answer this question leaving it in the comments section: 
When you finish a dreaded task, do you reward yourself? And if you do.... what do you chose as your reward? Deadline is Monday, April 11th at 11:59 p.m. Make sure you leave an easy way to get a hold of you in the comments. (No easy way and I skip down to the next person on the list..... It's my party and I get to play by my rules! Have to make life as easy as possible.)

Contest is closed! The winner is Pam who wrote: I love rewards! My favorite is shopping of course...usually for yarn to add to the stash. Thanks for the great giveaway! Pam

219 comments:

1 – 200 of 219   Newer›   Newest»
Unknown said...

I definitely reward myself after I finish our taxes! If we get a refund (which we seem to always do), I give myself a small portion of it to buy something that I want but don't need. (this post reminded me that I have been coveting your sock yarn from afar for some time now - perhaps that will be my treat this year! Yes, I still have the taxes left to do.))

Gina Power said...

I usually reward myself with some "me-time" to do whatever I want (usually knitting)!!

Thanks
Gina
power.gina1@gmail.com

Taloferia said...

Usually I would reward myself by buying some new yarn. I'm on a yarn diet right now, so my reward would be casting on for a new project!

Elizabeth said...

When finish a dreaded task I usually sit outside (depending on the season) and knit or play in the garden. If the task was weeding the garden I go inside and paint my nails :)

hemleeck said...

I seriously think the sense of relief that I have finished it is its own reward! hmleeck@frontier.com

MG said...

Of course,any dreaded task that gets completed DESERVES a treat! For me it used to be a food treat, but after learning to knit(15 years ago) and loving to sew...I get to start a new knitting or sewing project!!Even better is when I destash and start a new project!

Jo Anne W-M said...

If the task is a household thing, my reward is usually time to do something of my choice like read, knit, check out a yarn shop. If the task involves knitting, such as finishing a project, my reward is to work on something that is new or that I have been wanting to start.

Anonymous said...

With me, actually finishing IS a reward, says the Princess of Procrastination. I've been on a kick to finish the half-dones, so that I can start more without guilt.

I'll hurry. . . so feel free to choose me. :)

Mary Lee

merrilymarylee@gmail.com

Maureen said...

Need you ask, when I finish a dreaded project I reward myself with a new knitting adventure, at times it is from my stash and at other times i venture out to by something new, which often gets into the stash!
Gratitude123@hotmail.com

Sally said...

YOWZA, Kristin! What a great giveaway! Treats? Absolutely! I often do a watch-a-movie/knitting combo as a reward for accomplishing something disagreeable or procrastination worthy.

Wendelene said...

Right now my life is full of dreaded tasks. Most of them related to home remodeling. The only way I can get anything done is to set up a system of tasks and rewards. I break down the tasks into slightly more manageable parts. My reward is usually that I get to spend the rest of the day doing whatever the heck I want to do, which mostly ends up being knitting or spinning. Actually, I'd really love to weave, but the looms are buried beneath remodeling detritus. Maybe my next set of tasks will be to get that room cleared out and the reward will be a new project on the loom!

Deb said...

Very nice giveaway!! Soccer season is in full swing here, so my take-along projects are small, requiring minimum brain power. I would love to try your sock yarn.

Susan said...

After a not so pleasant task I get couch time with my knitting or I go outside for a run!

Susan

candscamp@q.com

Molly said...

Sweet giveaway! Yes, I definitely reward myself after completing a dreaded task. I'm sad to say it's usually food related and it's either a giant bowl of buttered popcorn (made from scratch ....not microwaved) or a Coldstone Creamery Coffee Lovers Only ice cream treat. It depends on what my hormones are telling me to eat that day!

Louise said...

As for several others, the relief of finally finishing whatever the dreaded task may be is reward enough.

Louise
Louknits@orange(dot)fr

Sharon said...

For my reward, it is usually craft related, most likely spinning or knitting time or materials. Can't let my stash of roving run out! Run out, who am I kidding! smile..thanks for the chance.

Leslie said...

Well, when I finish something I hate doing (like taxes) I plan to reward myself (and the husband since he's here too) with a pizza NOT made at home, wine and later ice cream!
Knitting finishes usually are rewarded by starting the next thing I've been NOT starting as the carrot at the end of my stick.

I think you have my email anyhow but it's lsharr at geeeeeemail daht calm

Anonymous said...

If it's a job I really have put off, I usually feel so great after it's completed, that I don't need a reward. The lack of guilt is my reward! Lol!!

MicheleinMaine said...

Yes, I'm all about the rewards! After I finished assembling all my tax paperwork for my accountant I gave myself a night off to knit in front of the tv (usually I sew in the evening). If it's daytime, I get a special coffee drink. If the budget allows it and I've finished some really big milestone (like preparing for a show) I get to buy myself something non-essential like shoes! (if I win I am at michelecorbeil@gmail.com) Thank you!

Bonnie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Joyce said...

My work day is full of paperwork and accounting tasks and I wouldn't survive it without something to look forward to! I definitely reward myself with some knitting time! I love that you shared information about your editor, Gwen. I think it would be rewarding to bring to fruition a book project with the creative people she works with--maybe not easy, but rewarding and once the book is printed, you would have something to show for your efforts that is more lasting than another batch of bills or laundry!

Bonnie said...

Oh yes, I certainly do reward myself when I have to finish a dreaded task. Since I'm watching my weight, I don't reward myself with food any longer. I might reward myself with a beautiful skein of yarn, or an afternoon at a favorite bookstore/cafe, or a movie, or a walk someplace nice that I haven't been to in ages. Just getting outdoors in the fresh air after a dull job like taxes make me feel happier.

Bonnie
bluepeninsula on Ravelry
http://bluepeninsula.blogspot.com/

Betsie said...

I usually reward myself with knitting while I watch whatever tv series I"m currently in to on netflix. Right now, it's Scrubs and a little bolero for my daughter's First Communion.

Mary Ann said...

I set the timer and go at the dreaded task full force for a specified period of time. Then I take a little reward - they differ, and their are lots of them to choose from: a knitting break, a facebook/e-mail break, a chocolate break, a walk up the hill to get fresh air break, a meet my daughter for lunch break, a ski through the woods during lunch time break, and in the evening, a yoga/meditation break, a glass of wine break. I keep coming up with new ones (like the enter a contest break..). It makes the dreaded tasks not quite so dreadful. They get managed by doing them in reasonable 'doses', cutting them down to size and I always feel recharged and renewed after a 'little' break.

It's amazing how much I can get accomplished with these built in 'attitude adjustments'.
Mary

Stoney said...

I reward myself with a photo of finished project inserted into my journal, along with comments about how the project went and where I needed to dig deep to problem solve. Once that's done, it's a bowl of chocolate chunk ice cream. Nothing else will do. Really.
stoneymonte@hotmail.com

Mary G said...

heck yeah I reward myself -- usually with sitting down and knitting something just for fun!

Love Storey publishing -- I've never found a book they publish that isn't great! Would love to win this prize pack ...

Hugs.

knitterbeader said...

I do try to reward myself when I finish something. I have way too many WIP's, so finishing is a big deal. I give myself some "me" time to do whatever I want - shop for more yarn, go to my stash and cast on something new, or just sit back either inside or outside and enjoy what's around me.
garnerdk at olypen dot com

Lisa C. said...

If it is a really big long-term project that I finish, I love to indulge myself with a facial or massage. With smaller completed projects I reward myself by getting out of my office for the day and just wandering around the mall or at a store that I've been wanting to go to.
paul(dot)lisa(dot)c(at)gmail(dot)com

Susan said...

I LOVE rewarding myself! And usually do it by sitting down and reading a book, sometimes for days at a time. The reward usually takes longer than the "dreaded task!" And because I spend so much time reading, everything becomes a dreaded task, so I reward myself, ummm, every few days!
sbsford(at)gmail(dot)com

Judy M said...

I used to do chocolate but now I just knit for 20-30 min. Much better for me and it helps to use up so much of the stash.
naturesconcepts@msn.com

The Felting Pot said...

Hi Kristin: I usally do not reward myself after a dreadful task because there are so many I dread. If there is somewhere I want to go or something I want to buy I plan ahead - by the way I always have an ongoing wish list. I believe in attacking the task at hand - and then I move on.

jennifer said...

I find as I'm getting older I don't have to bribe myself as much. Though I do occasionally. As a reward-Chocolate. Or starting a new project. Either is an excellent self-bribe.

The hand-dyed book is wonderful. We used it as a reference during our knit group dye party last summer!
jlbixleratgmaildotcom

Gill said...

I nearly always have a sit down with a coffee and a book!

Cortney said...

I do rewards myself, the task at hand dictates the type of reward I get :) Sometimes the 'dreaded task' is finishing up my stack of orders and when I do I reward myself with a new pattern or starting a new project that I really want to work on. Right know my not so dreaded 'dreaded task' is weight loss and I've got manicures, new clothes and a special birthday trip to Victoria Secret with my hubby all lined up as my rewards! Although the weight loss is the biggest reward of all :D

cortney.rotz@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

~ hello from Shell ~
WONDERFUL giveaways ! The yarn is SO perfect & yummie colors.
I like merrilymarylee's title of: "Princess of Procrastination." If she's the Princess, I must be in the same kingdom, since I'm certain I have a PhD in Procrastination as well !
I reward myself with ghiradelli dark chocolate, a tiny yarn purchase & knitting out at my swing seat or taking time to draw with new pencils.
thanks for the lovely items !
Shell~
YarnSoup@yahoo.com

Debbie said...

Yes, I reward myself. Depending on the situation, it may be a new yarn, a kit kat bar or a nap.

MelissaH said...

Of course I reward myself. Either a nibble of chocolate or something else delicious, some uninterrupted reading or knitting time, or even just a cuddle with the kitties. Anything for a little extra motivation!

Susan B. said...

When I finish a dreaded task I don't need to reward myself because I'm SO HAPPY to have it done and not hanging over me. Being free of the task is a better reward than anything I could dream up or buy.
susanabarfield(at)gmail(dot)com

crazyjane said...

I'm queen of procrastination , so when I do eventually get the dreaded done, then I reward myself with making something for me,( a skirt or top) I sew for a living, so it would be making myself an item, from the huge pile that sits by the cutting table 'for me' pile. or sock knitting, as a fairly new knitter, I'm entranced with sock knitting. or immerse myself in a book.
crazyjane07@googlemail.com

ZT! said...

Yes I do reward myself! The reward depends on the task at though. For example,I have 9 days straight with no day off again, so when I get done, I'm spending the afternoon at the botanical gardens. I got our taxes done before the 18th! and in before the probably government shutdown. The reward for that one is a $25 dollar card for my E-reader and a trip to favorite yarn store.

It's all about perspective.

Debbi said...

I do reward myself - usually with something yummy to eat (a little treat) or a nap or by purchasing something that I have had my eye on. All depends on the size of the project and how long it took me to do.
Debbi

debbear62@yahoo.com

Patricia said...

I know this might sound really bad, but if I really hate the task or job I see if it is something the husband likes to do. I hate cutting the lawn, husband likes to cut the lawn, (and says that I miss too much) I don't think I do. But husband hates to do laundry, I really don't mind. I can do laundry, vaccum, dust or whatever.

The reward, we both win.

fracksmom said...

Great give away, your blog rocks Kristin, I read it faithfully everyday, love your phots and farm stories.

I reward myself with knitting a fun project if the project wasn't knitting, LOL than it is chocolate.

Fracksmom on Ravelry

Tell the farmer i'm really looking forward to his turn on the blog.

Emma said...

I reward myself with as many hours as I can get to knit. My email is toemma@gmail.com

Unknown said...

when I finish a hard project or task I start a fun project knitting, crochet, sewing, or spinning. I'm carej on Ravelry or cajcaroline at gmail dot com

Zenitude said...

What a great giveaway...so many yummy looking books and yarn!
After doing a dreadfull task, I will reward myself with some knitting time or a good book.
woolyknitsnbits@live.ca

Anonymous said...

I do sometimes reward myself. Mostly by doing exactly what I want for a couple of hours and responsibilities be damned! Thanks for the giveaway, Kristin. You can leave me a comment on my semi-dormant blog or a message on Ravelry, the name in both cases is FiberTribe.

HOA Mgr Lady said...

The stuff that I dread at work I ussally reward myself with internet time. Otherwise I get OUT of the house and into the air to make the end so much more REAL>
Rcederstro at aol dot com
Ruth

christie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
christie said...

ugh - i hate taxes. i reward myself with delish yarn - preferably in a bright color - and a glass of wine.

abrescuerunner@yahoo.com

Cory said...

A snack which probably includes chocolate, coke,& a french cookie..sit in my favorite chair & watch tv !!


CORY
cshort50@yahoo.com

jdbknits said...

I usually don't reward myself but that's a great idea!
julieannbrown at mindspring dot com

Love your blog!

Geri said...

I usually reward myself by knitting for a while!

inglisg (at) sympatico (dot) ca

Chppie said...

I do let myself knit for a bit. My problem is I reward myself a little too much. So now I need to get back to the task at hand.

Kate said...

If it's a really heinous task, I usually reward myself with a small purchase that is purely for me. It's usually yarn involved, but sometimes it's a simple as a coffee or a book. Smaller tasks I usually reward with free time for myself, just a few minutes sitting idly in the sun or knitting longer than I intended.

kate_erickson at hotmail.com

penny said...

I definitely reward myself... and try to keep it something small from knitting on a for-me project for a set period of time to buying something i could use and have wanted for a while but wasn't on the urgent list (mostly knitting/weaving/cooking books!).

Unknown said...

I take myself out for a coffee (and maybe a magazine) at the local bookseller! Better for me than a cookie (which is what I could easily go for...)

Cami said...

It really just depends on the task. Sometimes I reward myself with food, time relaxing or time crafting. Sometimes it just feels good to have the dreaded task finished!

mamaross said...

Wow. Another amazing giveaway. I love all these opportunities to win great books and yarn! I definitely reward myself for finishing a dreaded task. Sometimes it's just a piece of chocolate to sweeten up the housework, sometimes its an hour of quiet time with an audio book and some knitting, and sometimes, if I'm feeling especially worthy, it's a new book or yarn or some other form of retail therapy. Even if I end up buying something that was more of a necessity than a true luxury, I love the feeling of having 'earned' the spending rights.

Robin Allen said...

Yes, I reward myself, either with knitting or reading or, in the winter, a hot bath.

Robin Allen
robin.allen.tx@gmail.com
http://robinallentx.blogspot.com/

Anonymous said...

Giveaways are so much fun, even if I have never won one! My reward after a dreaded task is ALWAYS sitting down to knit, usually with the TV turned to an old western movie. If cookie or two happens to make it's way to my chair it's an added treat!
Thank for sharing your life with us blog-readers.
marcydoane@yahoo.com

Lindsay said...

I usually plan a reward, like food or knitting time, but then don't follow through.

rowndabout said...

The surprise of me actually finishing a dreaded task is reward enough!
Thanks for the informative blog. Love learning about sheep and all the "stuff" that happens behind the scenes.
rowndabout@gmail.com

Jincey08 said...

jennie.clifton@gmail.com

After finishing a dreaded task, I take a nap followed by chocolate!

Anonymous said...

When you finish a dreaded task, do you reward yourself? And if you do.... what do you chose as your reward?

Why I start another project!!

Suzanne said...

When I finish a dreaded task, my reward is usually ice cream or chocolate. Sometimes yarn if it was something really dreaded.

Betty said...

When I'm done procrastinating the dreaded task. . . Yes, I reward myself. Usually it's with allowing time to do something creative, with a little chocolate on the side! Betty
taser52@yahoo.com

Kathy said...

I'm a strong believer in rewarding myself for hard tasks - it may be tv time, it may be knitting, or it may be tea and chocolate. Whatever it is, it's in my room with the door closed.
Kathy
Kathyofsjc@gmail.com

Sharon F said...

Usually, when I finish a dreaded task/project, I feel energized to take more on. I tend to build things up bigger than they really are in my mind.

Rebekah said...

Whenever I reach the finish line of something difficult, monotonous, or down right annoying, I usually do one of three things to reward myself: watch a good movie with my sisters, have a cup of Swiss Miss hot chocolate, or just wallow away the time by reading my favorite blogs. Those are the ways I choose to treat myself.

Rebekah
herlittleway at gmail dot com

cw said...

I usually have such guilt that a dreaded task has taken so long to 'get to', that I savor the moment, feeling rather cocky and smug and then go putz around in leisure. Putzing is my fine art of dibble dabbling - which feeds my ADD mind.:)

Anonymous said...

You know I don't reward myself. Often just having the weight of dread of my shoulders is reward enough.

kelley
knittergirl at hadeler dot net

thepaintedsheep said...

I love to reward myself, even for the little things. Its usually a few minutes of me time - knitting, spinning, reading, taking a hot bath.

Sara said...

When I finish a dreaded task, I reward myself with either a latte, some ice cream, some new yarn or simply just a couple hours of knitting!

BTW, I have your Colorful Stitchery book and love it! I taught myself how to embroider with it! Since I knit, crochet and sew, it opened up a whole new world of creativity for me!

swhellokitty at gmail dot com

Lori said...

I'm a awful procrasinator, so I usually award myself BEFORE finishing a dreaded job. Bad habit! I love yarn though, so that would be my reward of choice.

Carolyn said...

When I finish a difficult task my favorite thing to do is to sit outside with my knitting and enjoy the incredible view of the mountains. Of course, that is if it ever stops snowing!
Carolyn
cclarke@xmission.com

joyknits said...

If it's a big editing project, I usually treat myself to ice cream on the way home from shipping it off at the feed store, and then reading for a while when I get home :o)

weavinfool said...

I have those books, so don't enter me.

My question is: Why don't you neuter your cat(s)? Aren't a zillion lambs each year enough of the miracle of birth?

Julia (mb at diegesis dot net) said...

Back when the Gap still carried interesting, wearable clothing (and before I learned to knit socks!) I used to reward myself by buying a pair of brightly colored socks. These days I have to confess I reward myself by crossing the dreaded task off the list! And then I might go out in the garden and dig around.

Patty said...

When I actually finish a dreaded task(which would be to organize a closet or 2) I go out, usually to my LYS, to either buy or sit and knit or both.
Patty
pclark204@comcast.net

Leslie said...

When I finish a knitting project, even tho I have a HUGE stash, I usually reward myself with more yarn or at least some new "tools'. You can never have too many stitch markers!
bagatelle@comcast.net - Leslie

Jen B said...

Lets just say that if there were no reward . . . dreaded tasks would never get done around here. Hmmm - the reward can vary from some chocolate to some knitting time or stash building.

beth said...

What a great giveaway! Sock yarn would be such a treat for me since learning to make socks is one of my knitting goals for the year.

I usually reward myself by doing something I really love when I finish with a less desirable task. Sometimes I'll make a cup of tea and sit on the porch and read, sometimes knit, or garden.

beth@expository.org

onescrappychick said...

hmmmm.. why haven't I thought of this reward idea before? I don't.. but I am sure going to start!!!

justplainbeth on Rav.

Rebecca said...

Oh, Oh, Oh, sock yarn and books!! what a wonderful give away. I have never won one, but maybe it is my turn. LOOOOVE the colors of your yarn.

eversrb@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Oh yes, if it's a big thing, I get a new pair of shoes. Little things, chocolate, a trip to a cafe, or a pile of books from the library. Last week I gave myself 3 bunches of daffodils for an A on a paper I wrote (I'm in grad school).

Bonnita said...

Depending on the task, the reward changes. Either some new yarn, or a pattern, knitting, sewing, or embroidery. I'm easy when it comes to rewards.

Kitten With a Whiplash said...

Finishing a terrible chore is sometimes a big cheerer-upper in and of itself. If the chore is getting the kitchen spotless, I reward myself by messing it up again - by dying yarn, which is what I had in mind for this weekend, but it's not looking likely. "I can be reached thru my blogger profile", he said with a hopeful twinkle in his eye.

mly said...

Reward for carrying out family obligations: my first spinning wheel. Reward for continuing to sacrifice personal time for family stuff last year: second wheel. This year, I am starting to acquire fleece. Oh, and hoping for SOAR.

mly said...

Oh, and did I mention, purchasing all of Interweave's spinning DVD's as a smaller reward for weekend obligations? Also, going to spin night once a week, to see awesome spindlers in action, and talk fiber for an evening.

Linking email to this response.

Anonymous said...

Chocolate! I keep chocolate chips in the freezer and they are my reward.

Ann
javieknits on ravelry

Heather L. said...

I always imagine what I want as a reward for a dreaded task. Often after i've accomplished it, i never get what I imagined but it doesn't seem to matter as much once the task is over. This year after finishing up our taxes I did reward myself with a new vacuum since all 3 of ours died at the same time and we managed to collect a tax return!!!

Betsy said...

My favorite reward is to listen to a book on CD from the library while I knit or crochet. It is so relaxing to me.

Betsy
dbqueen5@yahoo.com

Carla said...

It depends on the task- perhaps a piece of chocolate or a yarn purchase-

Kathy said...

Generally I am ecstatic when I finish a dreaded task and the feeling of relief and accomplishment is reward enough. That said, I have been known to go out for ice cream once in a great while!

I totally indulge in reading blogs, buying yarn, knitting books, and online patterns at all other times. I can't bear to save those goodies for a reward. :)

Kathy

webksiemsen@lisco.com

Katie said...

Depends on what it is. Sometimes I reward myself with casting on a new project, sometimes I might treat myself to something nice. Other times the self satisfaction is enough!

Strickbombe said...

i often decide on the treat (e.g. more surfing time on the net, time spent browsing for a new knitting book, another repeat of that knitted lace project) and end up rewarding myself before i get to the end of the dreaded deed. no self-discipline here! (p.s. 'here' is in germany, but i have a u.s. address, should i win).
alexandra(dot)ines(dot)blum(at)gmx(dot)de

Anonymous said...

Of course I reward myself. Usually with breakfast out with a friend, but sometimes with a long chat with my sister, People are the best reward! Joan tfcat@aol.com

Unknown said...

I try to do a non eating reward so i would have to say that either I take the time to sit and read a good book or work on one of my always ongoing knitting projects. I like both of those options and it just makes finishing something more important and desireable.
Linda
lwhite2@rochester.rr.com

Andrea@That'll Do Farm said...

I reward myself by taking it easy the next day. No deadlines, I do nothing that has to be done. It's like my own mini vacation.

Susan said...

I reward myself by doing something I enjoy that I told myself I could do when I was done. In college there was a time when I had just discovered "The Chronicles of Narnia." So when I got done with my studying I would read one of the books. Today my rewards are knitting a special project, going for a walk or browsing my favorite knick knack shop.
susanknits@earthlink.net

JackieLemon said...

Great giveaway! Usually just getting a dreaded job done is enough of a reward but a little yarn and chocolate sure gives me a pat on the back!
pjlemon@roadrunner.com

Jackie said...

I guess I do reward myself after completing a dreaded task, although I never really thought about it in that way before. Usually after I complete something stressful, I will head for the nearest chocolate, or pick up my latest knitting/crochet project to unwind a bit.

onlyonce@ymail.com

carol said...

I never thought about this until NOW but it's usually always FOOD. Usually a good cup of coffee, a decadent piece of chocolate or a homemade cookie.

cdeck21@sbcglobal.net

Savannagal said...

No, I don't reward myself. I'm an A-type and I usually just get right on to the next task. So much to do, so little time. Thanks for the contest. I really enjoy reading your blog.

Savannagal on Ravelry

David Pate said...

After finishing any dreaded task, I usually look for a new knittig project. If I can't find the yarn in the colorway that I am looking for, I will dye it myself. Dyeing yarn is ALWAYS something to push me to finishing any project, dreaded or not!

Kimberly
DPATE14@triad.rr.com

amyroz said...

Yup! Rewards work for me! Usually chocolate, a hazelnut laTte or a glass of wine. (But USUALLY not all at once!). amyroz@hotnail.com

Skyebaby said...

I always reward myself for doing a dreaded task. My reward usually takes the form of knitting time!

Unknown said...

I'm so relieved when I finish a dreaded task, that I simply veg out in front of the TV! Sometimes I'll take a nap!

kaidyd on ravelry

d said...

I usually set up the "reward" in order to get myself to do the dreaded ... whatever it is. Usually my reward is quiet time to read.

bookboxer on ravelry

PAK said...

I usually treat myself to some "ME" time when I may go to a knit store and get some yarn to either start a new project or to go into my stash.
pakoss0414@gmail.com

Elaine said...

organizing the stash and stuff in my weaving, spinning, knitting room is always challenging because my bird lives in there too. His bird seeds are everywhere and I have to vacuum every day. Reading and planning my next projects are my reward.
eblim01@yahoo.com

Elizabeth said...

I treat myself simply, usually a cup of tea and a movie while knitting. It's just nice to sit sometimes.

communicato@gmail.com

mjknits said...

I definitely reward myself when I finish up something I've put off. The more dreaded it is , the bigger/better the reward! Really good quality chocolate is good for the little things, but for the big jobs, its off to my lys or online for some gorgeous spinning fiber.

maryjn@earthlink.net

jan said...

I definitely reward myself and it is with time. Time to knit, crochet, bead or create something that has been nagging at my inner creative self.
Jan
jada@cableone.net

Lisa said...

Yesterday I cut my first steek ...and breathe (very stressful but you do inspire me). Reward was a glass of cabernet as I cooked dinner. Keep on inspiring me and I'll try to remember to breathe. vivianos3@aol.com

andrea said...

Unfortunately, when I finish one dreaded task another is lurking right around the corner so usually I sit on the sofa and say to myself..."okay, just gonna knit row"!!! I calm down and go tackle that "lurker" around the corner!
Andrea W

Lynn Cohen said...

Reward myself? I think each day is a reward waking up! I like to treat myself with good things to eat...or if I buy something it might be an expensive magazine full of inspiring art to make!
another treat is a lazy but productive art day staying in my pjs all day long!
You can find me easily at lynnc66@comcast.net!!! That yarn is so yummy!!!

Carrie said...

Rewards? Oh absolutely! For me "Dreaded" is so... Piratey. I am thinking Dread Pirate Roberts here, and pirates remind me of those tasks that I do dread/avoid: "mopping(the deck)", "walking (the plank)" and "spending the bounty (of pirating)" a.k.a. shopping.
I reward myself with a few moments of fantasizing, alone with a cookbook, and a glass of wine.
(Carrie) www.wellstavernfarm.com

Denise P. said...

I've never considered it a reward before, but when I complete a dreaded task I go do something mindless, like playing video games.

flgirl1987@yahoo.com

chris said...

Yes I reward myself, usually "me time" creating something involving fiber or I buy a book that is on my wish list. chrismalawy@gmail.com

laura gayle said...

Oooh! Rewards! Depends on the task and my mood. Minor -- some ice cream or a small book. Major... yarn for a project larger than socks or a more expensive book.

laura gayle said...

and because it looks like there's not an e-mail link on the blogger profile page: knittingayle AT gmail.com

Jessica L'Heureux said...

If I have something "dreaded" coming up or to do, I will usually save some "delightful" activity to follow it up with. My favorite follow up is always knitting, but sometimes I'll take a quick ride on my motorcycle first, just to blow the yuck away, clear my head and ready me for knitting with a peaceful outlook (and more even tension!)
jessica at myknits dot com

Unknown said...

My reward for pretty much everything is knitting time. I also reward myself for finishing a knitting project by casting on a new one! Happy, happy!
juliewitt at shaw dot ca

Carolknits said...

Since I am blessed to HAVE a house to clean and laundry to do, I don't really dread much of anything. While people all over the world are suffering from natural disasters and struggling for freedom, I consider myself rewarded every day by living free. I DO set aside time every day for my knitting and quilting projects and seeing them progress is my reward!
Carolknits

Unknown said...

I believe we all deserve rewards, big and little I reward myself every morning with a cup of Peet's coffee made in my french press which is warmed by a hand-knit coffee cozy (the bobbles on the bottom edge were inspired by one of your hat patters). I reward myself at the end of most work days (including a long commute both ways) with some mindless time looking at knitting books or surfing Ravelry for a bit. My big reward every year is going to Stitches West and spending an entire day for myself luxuriating in the wonderful colors, feel and delight of yarn and then carrying home with me a canvas bag full of whatever I couldn't leave behind. Of course, there are many other yarn rewards in between my annual Stitches events. Thanks, Kristin, for yet another inspirational give-away.

Teresa said...

My favorite way to reward myself after a dreaded task is a trip to my local coffee shop for a latte and some uninterrupted knitting.

TheAntiquePalette said...

Coming out of the woodwork to say Thank You for the springtime give away, please count me in!
Susie
ooman55@yahoo.com

Kamin said...

Rewards are the best part of my days. My wonderful husband keeps me supplied with boxes of my favorite assorted dark chocolates. One piece for a task, big or small I complete, is a delicious reward I look forward to daily. Just having the willpower to eat only one piece a day is a rewarding experience! :)


kamknits@yahoo.com

Deb and Robin said...

I reward myself with some quiet time to drink a glass of wine and read a book or go out to dinner
Robin Corddry

Debrob22@msn.com

Dianna said...

I gained 20 pounds the first year I taught school because my reward for a difficult day was a bag of potato chips on my way home! Now, the reward has to be something that won't make me any heavier than I am - but of course I reward myself for a dreaded task - how else would I get them done!

Much2knit@hotmail.com

Cheryl S./sdbrncacherry said...

I either reward myself with a favorite drink, snack, or some concentration-free knitting=)~bowtiful@gmail.com

Anne P said...

I absolutely reward myself after dreaded tasks! Usually my reward involves relaxation - knitting, reading, and probably accompanied by a yummy snack...a coffee drink with whipped cream on top.. annegp on ravelry

Vermont Grand View Farm said...

When I finish a dreaded task-my reward is the satisfaction that I persevered and completed what needed to be done.
You can always find me at kimgoodling@yahoo.com

PumpkinFreckles said...

sometimes I reward myself, it depends on what the task is. usually just finishing the task is it's own reward, but there are times when i...
sometimes go out to eat
go see a movie
buy a book i've wanted
get a new gadget
spend way too long at coffee with a good friend

beefi8 said...

I would love the one skein sock yarn book! Tammie
homebody62565@yahoo.com

I use knitting as my reward for completing ... tasks. LOL

Christine said...

oh my goodness!!!! as soon as taxes were done, I reward EVERYONE! It was a thank you for having the kids "LEAVE ME ALONE" for that tax time where they couldn't bug or talk to me.

Anna said...

I can't remember the last time I finished a dreaded task.

acgene gmail com

owlette said...

If I was to reward myself right now it would be with yarn my stash is so low it barely fills one shelf! fingers crossed. carej1994@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

If it's a really big and dreaded task, I make myself a big cup of English breakfast tea and walk to the local German bakery and purchase one delicious slice of lemon cake. Since the bakery is only one block from my house this is an easy and quick jaunt and worth every calorie. Since I am not overweight, a slice of cake once in a while doesn't hurt. -Catherine
(omanitz.ny@verizon.net)

penelope10 said...

Rewards are great motivators! I reward myself after doing chores, or getting paper work done. After, I open a package from the mail, or start a new project with new yarn.

Robin said...

I always reward myself! Except I usually end up rewarding myself before the task is done.

debra said...

After finishing something hard, I like to knit. If it's the knitting that was the hard thing..easy knitting, maybe a dishcloth.

susan said...

Since I retired, I have much less to finish but the taxes are THE WORST. I usually reward myself ( and my long suffering husband) with a meal out, something casual but really good. Since the kids are long gone cooking has lost its appeal and a meal anywhere else is a real treat!

Candylei said...

How wonderful your blog giveaway is! Well after finishing one hard project I reward myself by starting two more! I'm not sure if people think that is a reward, but I think so! There are so many fabulous things to do and not enough time it seems.
I hope all of your lambs are doing well and you are getting some sleep now.
Candylei

Alyson said...

Sometimes having finished whatever dreaded task so I can stop thinking about it is reward enough! Otherwise, I give myself time to myself (to knit or read or whatever)

adewaratgmaildotcom

MarmePurl said...

reward? Brownies! :)

Marmepurl on Rav

theknittedbrow said...

When I finish a knitted project, I reward myself either with beginning a new one or finishing another--because there are always more--while I'm on a finishing kick. Browsing through other patterns for longish periods of time is also a nice reward...it's indulgent, kind of like knitters' daydreams. On Ravelry I'm Yarnsley.

Tracie said...

I do reward myself. Usually by having some quiet time knitting and watching the multitude of dvr shows I have not had time to watch because I was handling the dreaded task.

tracienix[at]gmail[dot]com

Rain said...

Oh yes-you MUST reward yourself after completing a task-for me it's usually yarn-or craft item-definitely something totally not necessary!!~~Rain
rainss61@msn.com

Unknown said...

I, too, believe that actually finishing is its own reward, for I am another procrastinator. PamWoolbright@gmail.com

natalie. beyond the reef said...

Again. REALLY?!?? 153 comments?
I just did a toe up sock book giveaway on my blog - my first ever sock knitting. I believe that the best reward for finishing, like this blog, or like my first (sigh) no. 2 needle project....is the belief that what you give you get back 10 fold...

K. Anne said...

Right now I have a new crafty item waiting patiently in the box. You see, I can't play with it until the whole house is back on track in a big way, so it's to be my reward for a lot of hard work. Usually, just getting whatever it is done so I can stop stressing over it is enough of a reward. But this is such a big task that I need a little extra motivation. :)

K. Anne
karmah (at) comcast (dot) net

tjf said...

Usually, I put my own 'fun' projects on hold to finish a 'dreaded' task so I guess the reward for finishing is that I get to once again work on them. Thanks again for the chance to win some great items.
Tricia
thefankells@mesanetworks.net

Debbie said...

I try to reward myself with something fibery - yarn or a pattern. Debbie in Alaska
gussek on Ravelry

denise said...

I usually reward myself with a nice cup of coffee and some interrupted knitting. So peaceful
dpluta2001@yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

When I finish a dreaded task I don't always have time to reward myself. I usually have another task waiting.
But on a rare occasion when I do reward myself, I just sit quietly and pet my dog.
angiedenick@yahoo.com

Kate G. said...

Thanks to the economy (taxes, oy!) my rewards lately have been pretty down-to-earth, but just as satisfying. I treat myself to a long walk if the weather is nice, an extra hour of knitting instead of doing the dishes or a phone gab fest with my sister who lives much too far away.

Elizabeth said...

I absolutely reward myself, and my favorite reward is a brownie a la mode, especially after a long week at work.

Susanne said...

I reward myself by getting started on another project. If the project just finished is a big one, then I have been thinking about my next project for a while. The result is a dive right in! Can't wait as they say. What a wonderful contest. Thanks
Susanne (scheusie@shaw.ca)

Jill jmlang2@ptd.net said...

Since I procrastinate just finishing the dreaded task is my reward. Too often I put my reward up front, which is how I procrastinate!

honeysuckleblue said...

I always say I will reward myself... new clothes or such... but I never follow through.

honeysuckleblueATymailDOTcom

Anonymous said...

I reward my self with pie! What can be better than that.

d_karen@hotmail.com

the yarn is beautiful

Cynthia.landers@ocps.net said...

always reward myself with extra time knitting or weaving or spinning. How much better can a reward get????

India said...

With a cookie or small chocolate; with some "stolen" knitting or reading time; with a walk around the yard to check on flowers and garden progress...

andyindy2@gmail.com

Carla said...

What a great giveaway! I reward myself by knitting whilst watching a great murder mystery!

Carla
cjnordby@gmail.com

yeldnifjr said...

Normally I reward my self with time with a good book.

Anonymous said...

I place an order w/my favorite yarn on-line store. I keep a wish list going most of the year to choose from.
p2jwhatley@cybermesa.com

Mieke said...

This year I was very proud on myself, I did my tax-papers much earlier than I had to. That gave such a good feeling that I rewarder myself twice. With: new sock yarn!!!

Anonymous said...

After "dreaded task completion" I peruse my favorite websites and ponder my next project. siriforsmansims@hotmail.com

ikkinlala said...

I reward myself with time to do things I want to do - usually knitting, reading, or dancing.

ikkinlala AT yahoo DOT ca

Unknown said...

I am bad. I don't usually reward myself. I need to change that though.

jeninquincy@gmail.com

Lorraine said...

I reward myself with doing something I like,perhaps sewing something. I'd love to win a prize.

Debby said...

I love to reward myself with some time to knit & watch a movie. Great giveaway!

purlynne@gmail.com

Nicole said...

I usually reward myself with some time watching TV and knitting.

remesnik AT gmail DOT com

Anonymous said...

absoulutely-take a nap, glass of wine, watch a DVD, an hour of knitting, anything that feels like a treat at the time!!
cpmigda@aol.com

teach13 said...

I reward myself once a month when I have someone clean my house. I live alone and feel I've earned it after 32yrs teaching school. I knit for pure enjoyment every night. Now for a new Granddaughter.

Maggie said...

I usually try to find a good movie on cable or Netflix and spend time watching the movie, knitting, and just relaxing for a couple of hours.

mommalou said...

Taxes are the worst! I hate that job! I might open a bottle of wine! I'll also do something special with the refund if we get one!

Sue said...

I reward myself with some knitting time. If its a really big project, I reward with some new yarn.
Sue
alagrneyez@aol.com

outi o said...

Knitting session is my favorite reward. If the task is super dreaded I let myself start a new project.
Yay! tiaouti@gmail.com

Loretta said...

Absolutely! I am training for 2 sprint triathalons back to back, and it is very difficult to get motivated to go run, swim, bike or do any combination when my body is tired. Once i complete my workout, I usually knit. Rewarding myself when I accomplish any task really helps me get it done!

Loretta @ lorettajphillips@yahoo.com

NancyP said...

Wonderful give-away! Thank you for the chance to win! I definitely believe in the reward system. The type of reward depends on the task. Spending time knitting, sewing and reading are excellent rewards. I am definitely a believer in the carrot approach to life. Nancy ncpinn@gmail.com

Laura Lane said...

Knitting time is my reward when I finish something I don't want to do.

lane dot family at yahoo dot com

I just found you. I'm off to look at more of your blog.

Do drop in!

Laura

Mimi F said...

After doing dreaded tasks, I like to jot a little note about it in a journal. AND, I post something about it on Facebook. It is a nice way to get some instant pats on the back.

Claudine said...

It is usually related to the task somehow: diet and I have lost weight/get a new pair of pants
spending a grubby day cleaning the garage/enjoy a nice hot shower an being clean
Being with my family doing something special is my favorite reward.

Jenny said...

I'm so busy with everyone else, I usually don't reward myself...but I should! I don't think I'm the only one with this 'problem'!? If I win, pls reach me at grdepa@yahoo.com

phaedra96 said...

Doing something fun after an unappealing task is the only way that task is finished. I have also played Strauss waltzes to rev up the "gitrdone". Knitting, sewing, reading, strolling through blogs are all ways of rewarding myself for having the will power to finish a not-so-pleasant-needed-to-be-done job.

phaedra96 said...

Ooops...bonnieanne@omnicityusa.com

Anonymous said...

That's an easy one--I reward myself with the thing I have the least of: Time.

To knit, to walk on the shore, to meditate, to do nothing at all.

nwhall at comcast dot net

bookagent said...

I love rewards! My favorite is shopping of course...usually for yarn to add to the stash. Thanks for the great giveaway!
Pam, phopkin1@rochester.rr.com

skibc@me.com said...

When you finish a dreaded task, do you reward yourself? And if you do.... what do you chose as your reward?

I often reward myself with a good book, a quiet cup of tea or coffee, a nice walk or ski, or more knitting time.

A dreaded task would be cleaning my classroom and filing papers, writing report cards, cleaning the house, waxing skis, weeding the garden but I love the end results usually!

Unknown said...

I reward myself with me time - knitting, reading, time on the computer, etc. Sometimes, I break long projects up into smaller pieces and reward myself for a bit in between each project piece. I have to set the timer, though! Otherwise, time gets away and it's all me time, no project time!

Karey said...

It depends on the dreaded task, if I give myself a reward. My reward usually involves food or shopping. Thanks for the giveaway.

smw said...

My principal reward for finishing a dreaded task is always CHOCOLATE!

Anonymous said...

Yes, the "dangling carrot" at the end of a dreaded task helps me stay motivated to get the deed done. . .chocolate, a walk in the park bordered on two sides by water and a boat launch (fun watching the boats getting in and out of the water), an evening of uninterrupted knitting time free of chores, a hug-and-kiss fest with my two sweet doggies, or reading on the back patio. A reward for a completed task makes life sweet!

cheryl33@bellsouth.net

Anonymous said...

When a dreaded task is completed there is no doubt that a trip to the yarn store is involved for some special spending of time and money.

Sandy in NJ
Pecsan114@optonline.net

Anne said...

Heck yes, I do reward myself! With extra knitting time, with yarn, or with beads ... now off to do the dishes so I can knit!

anneginsberg@hotmail.com

Deb said...

After a tiresome chore I reward myself spending time doing what I want to do, knitting, reading, watching a good show, puttering in the garden... which I am so looking forward to, enough of the winter already!

dlmca@stny.rr.com

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