Sorry for dropping off the face of the planet like that. My trip went well. I've been back for a couple of weeks, but have not had the time or energy to update the blog. In fact, I've not even done much in the way of knitting. I've been doing a lot of cycling – it's hard to knit on the bike! But I do have a couple of things to show, so I promise a real update soon, with pictures and everything.  

Meanwhile, I have joined a new swap. Unlike some people who go swap crazy, I've only done two do far – International Scarf Exchange 3 and Secret Pal 9. I had a lot of fun, and met some great people through those swaps, but I haven't been inclined to do many others. But how could I refuse the Knitter's Virtual Vacation Swap? I think it will be lots of fun! So, here's my questionnaire for that, so I can get matched up: 

Knitter's Virtual Vacation Swap Questionnaire 

1. If you could visit any state in the US, which would it be and why?

Arizona or New Mexico appeal to me. I like big open spaces with beautiful scenery, and I think those two states fit the bill. I'd also love to visit Alaska.

2. If you could visit any country in the world, other than your own, which would it be and why?

There are so many countries I'd love to visit. Australia and New Zealand are high on my list.I've not yet been anywhere in Asia or South America either. I'd be happy to go just about everywhere!

3. Have you ever driven across several states/provinces/countries?

Not for many years. Most of my travel has been by air.

4. Have you ever visited someplace you consider exotic? Where was it?

To date, I have been to 11 African countries (Ghana, Benin, Togo, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya, South Africa, Swaziland). Although they were mostly work trips, I do try to make time to have some tourist time when I travel. The country I've seen the most of is Mozambique. I have now been to more provinces of Mozambique than I have of provinces in Canada or states in the US. I've also been to a few Caribbean Islands and several countries in Europe. My country total is 23.

5. What was your favorite "travel" vacation? Why?

Kruger Park in South Africa. I was only able to go for weekends a couple of times, but seeing elephants in the wild for the first time was a real thrill. 

6. Have you ever played tourist in your own home city/state (if international, country)? Explain.

Not as much as I should. Ottawa, where I have lived for the past 7 years, is a beautiful city to visit

7. Are you a museum visitor, beach comer or an amusement seeker?

I love the outdoors and I'm very much a nature person, so my first call would be the beach. I love walking on the beach and checking out the sea life, both in and out of the water. I love snorkeling, and plan to learn to scuba dive.

8. What's your favorite type of yarn?

I like most natural yarns

9. What's your least favorite type of yarn?

Novelty yarns

10. What items do you like to knit/crochet?

Pretty much anything. I am very partial to lace knitting, among other things.

11. What do you pack, knit/crochet wise when you go on vacation?

I usually have several different projects on the go, especially when I travel. At a bare minimum, I take something simple and mindless, like a stockinette toe-up sock and something more complex (lace shawls are great for long flights – light, easy to carry, and keeps the brain occupied)

12. What other crafts do you do/would like to do other than Knit/Crochet?

I don't do any. I plan to learn to sew.

13. Are you allergic to anything? (Yarn wise or treat wise)

No.

14. What is your favorite color? Least Favorite?

Orange, and other autumn, earthy colours. My least favourite is pink and any pastels.

15. Sweet or Savory (Treat not personality)?

Sweet

16. Anything else we are forgetting to ask that you think your partner desperately needs to know?

Can't think of anything!

I've also joined Mystery Stole 3. I did Mystery Stole 2 and really enjoyed it. And lace projects are perfect summer knitting, so why not!