That inevitable question

Having worked in the medical field several years ago, I have a tendency to self-diagnose before going to the doctor. Wrong thing to do, I know. I'll research my symptoms to no end, and then that way, I feel like I'm armed (and maybe dangerous?) and ready for that ever elusive question you always get when the doctor walks into the exam room; "so what brings you here today?" For the past couple of months, at times, I'm pretty sure I've overdone it with the knitting and spinning, and have developed RSI, or repetitive strain injury, in my left thumb. Sometimes, it's excruciating and just throbs, and no amount of ibuprofen calms it. In the joint above my thumb, it's swollen all the way to my wrist, as well as red and hot. I'm more inclined to believe it's from the spinning than the knitting because I noticed for the first three weeks of the new year when I wasn't able to spin, the thumb pain lessened and I was able to actually knit quite comfortably. From now on, I'm going to take more frequent breaks from both, use hot and cold compresses, and maybe lessen my spinning to just ten minute intervals. I just started back up with the ibuprofen yesterday, so I'm also thinking maybe some regular anti-inflammatory dosing should help to calm it back down. 
If you haven't already taken measures to lessen injuries, whether in your crafting world, or your workplace, do yourself a big favor and start now!! Ergonomics are very important whether you're on a sports field, crafting, or are at work.

Jumping off my soapbox now.....

One of the socks for the pair I'm knitting for my brother-in-law came off the needles today. I'm so very pleased with how it turned out!!! I will cast on the second one today and try to get them to him in the next couple of weeks. I used my sock blockers to be able to take a picture and they are a bit small for the sock, so that's why the toe is hanging off the end and looks a little funny.

I have also completed clue #2 on my mystery socks, but I haven't gotten a chance to get a picture of them yet since it was in the evening when I finished. I like to try to wait for natural light to take pictures in.

Stitches West 2015 is only three weeks away now, and I always get so giddy with anticipation!!! I've had my room at the Hyatt booked for months now, and I can't hardly wait to see all of my old friends from years past, as well as the new friends I know I will walk away with. An entire three days to take in all of the new yarns, notions, bags, spinning wheels, etc. It is the best time ever!! I'm so thankful for such a supportive husband who sends me with an unlimited budget and just wants me to have a good time. How's that for spoiling a girl?

My mystery shawl is at the same point I think I've already told you about. I have about six rows left of the clue we got this past Sunday, which I will get to either today or tomorrow. I'm still not too sure about how I feel about the design so far, but I will finish it before I make a final decision. Who knows? It may end up being my favorite piece to wear of all time!