It’s been a while since I have written on my blog. Although this post is primarily about what I have knitted recently. It’s also a bit of an update on what has happened in my life lately. What I have been doing and why I have so much time to knit!
Life Lately
I had some health issues at the end of October, before my birthday. Nothing major but I have been taking easy and trying to relax more! As I result I haven’t had the chance to keep up with my normal geeky activities. Instead, I have spent my time relaxing, binge-watching Netflix and knitting!
As we had such nice weather in London over the summer. It seems I missed out on a ton of television shows airing on Netflix. So this time relaxing (and the colder weather), became the perfect time for me to catch up on all those shows! Luke Cage, The Dragon Prince and Orange is the New Black. But I also got to watch all those shows on my list like Anne with an E.
Marie Curie Sock Quest
Like last year, Sarah from Sherlock Knits is running her Marie Curie Sock Quest. Once again, her “slightly bonkers idea” is to give hand-knitted socks to all her patients, spending Christmas in the Marie Curie centres. You can read all about the quest on the Flower Power Fund‘s Instagram page.
This year, I brought four balls of the West Yorkshire Spinners yarn, in the limited edition colour ‘Marie Curie.’ The colourway designed especially for the quest, incorporating the colours from the Marie Curie logo. So I had my own slightly bonkers idea to knit four pairs of sock. However, each ball has enough yarn for three socks! So, in the end, I made six pairs of socks!
In the past, I loved to knit socks. However, haven’t knitted a pair for me in years. I took this opportunity to re-knit some of the knitting patterns I have loved in the past. And some patterns that were slightly more challenging. You can see all six pairs of socks in my Ravelry notebook.
During Phase One of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), S.H.I.E.L.D. featured in the storylines. Nick Fury appearing in several of the movies. Natasha Romanoff was a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent working undercover at Stark Industries. Phil Coulson dealt with Tony Stark in both Iron Man movies and S.H.I.E.L.D. tried to secure Mjolnir in Thor. It was it was the presence of the S.H.I.E.L.D. organisation that linked the movies.
During the first season of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., the Marvel movies affect the storylines. They cleaned up the mess in Greenwich after Thor: Dark World. The whole organisation collapsed after Captain America: Winter Soldier. Also, Nick Fury saved Fitz and Simmons in the season finale. There is no denying there was an association between the television programme and the movies.
The second season of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. has linked to the Agent Carter TV show but had fewer links to the MCU movies. The movies never mention the characters from Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. At the start of Avengers: Age of Ultron, the Avengers are working for S.H.I.E.L.D. hunting down HYDRA weapons. As Phil Coulson is still working for S.H.I.E.L.D. at the time, does that mean they know he is alive? Why do they not address this plot hole?
In the later seasons of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., the link is barely there. There is an appearance by Lady Sif. A newspaper headline mentioning Peggy Carter’s funeral in one episode. Later, several “Inhumans” signed the Sovokvia Accords. Now, the show operators almost separately from the movies.
I felt there were opportunities for crossovers. When writing the Sovokvia Accords, it must have included S.H.I.E.L.D. Why were they not mentioned? Likewise, S.H.I.E.L.D. agents must have helped with the closing The Avengers Tower in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Why didn’t Coulson have a guest appearance then? It will be interesting to see what happens post-Infinity War. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. has yet to be renewed for another series. Will the organisation end after this season and the events of Avenger: Infinity War? I can’t wait to find out.
The Defenders
As for Netflix/Marvel TV shows or The Defenders, there is a very loose link to the MCU movies (and other TV shows). It appears more as in passing in conversations, mentioning one of The Avengers or the “Battle of New York”. In the Daredevil, they manage to get reduced rent on their new office because of the incident. Or in Luke Cage, a man selling bootleg copies of the battle on DVD.
But I wonder why they haven’t linked the shows more. Whilst they don’t have to include the S.H.I.E.L.D. agents we know. They could have included someone from the organisation. From the end of the first Captain America movie, we know there is a S.H.I.E.L.D. base in New York. I am sure agents would have investigated a giant hole appearing in Midland Circle. Or at least wanted to question Jessica Jones or Luke Cage after their arrests. Why was this never explored?
In the Netflix/Marvel shows, they are hinting moving towards a Luke Cage and Iron Fist partnership. As seen in the Heroes for Hire comic books. How about a Punisher and Ghost Rider collaboration? This would be a great way to link the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. programme to Netflix programmes.
Similarly, I would love to see Avengers interact with The Defenders. Spider-Man is the obvious character to do the crossover from the movies to television shows. From the comics, he has ties most of The Defenders. Now personally, I like to think of Spider-Man as more a street-level hero. I loved the 1990’s cartoon, one of my favourite storylines was whilst he was working with Daredevil to take down Kingpin. How amazing would this be to see in live action?
Of course, I haven’t even mentioned The Runaways or Inhumans series (because I am not up to date with these programmes). As for the new upcoming shows link Cloak & Dagger. I have no idea if they have connections to the larger MCU, be it movies or television programmes.
The Future?
So what about the future? As I said Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. might not be renewed for another series. Rumour has it Phil Coulson will be appearing in the new Captain Marvel film. As I understand, this film is set in the 1990’s, so a prequel to the stories we know. But will it relate to the programmes? As the movie will also include the Kree, who are in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Will the movie explain where the alien involved in the T.A.H.I.T.I. project came from?
There is no doubt everything is going to be shaken up by Avengers Infinity Wars. The future of the MCU will be very different to the universe we know and love. I am wondering if this shake-up will link the programmes to the movies more or less? Or if the future will be a blank slate to continue the programmes without referencing the movies.
What do you think? Do you like that the Marvel programmes are connected? Do you wish they were more connected? Or do you think they should be separated? Let me know in the comments below.
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Currently Knitting… Marie Curie Quest Socks
Sherlock Knits is undertaking an epic quest to knit a pair of socks for every patient in the 9 hospices that she works in. A total of 229 pairs! Over the last two months, I have been knitting a few pairs for this worthwhile quest. Sherlock Knits is still a few pairs short to complete the challenge, check out her Instagram for more details.
Currently Reading… Geekerella by Ashley Poston
I am extremely behind in my Goodreads Challenge for 2017, I think yet again I am going to fail. However, as I got some amazon vouchers for my birthday. I bought a lot of the books from my to read list, including Geekerella and am attempting to catch up before the end of the year.
Currently Loving… Avengers: Infinity War Trailer
I have spent the last few days watching and re-watching the new Avengers trailer. I did think about writing a reaction post, but to be honest it probably would just say. “Spidey-senses, Bearded Cap. The Battle of Wakanda, more Bearded Cap. Mantis’s cute little wave!”
Currently Watching… Netflix has really spoilt me this month. Due to my birthday at the end of October, I didn’t get, around to watching Stranger Things until the start of the month. then in the middle of the month, we watched The Punisher. On top of that were weekly episodes of The Good Place, Once Upon a Time, and Star Trek: Discovery.
Currently Playing… Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp
I tried to convince myself, that I wasn’t going to play Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, as I didn’t have much free time. However, several hours of after the game was released and after seeing all the cute screenshots on Instagram. I downloaded the game and have been addicted ever since.
All week on my Facebook page, I have highlighted some of the Stranger Things posts from some of my fellow geeky bloggers. Today, I am rounding my some of the posts for you to “pin” for future reference. I think these projects would be great for viewing party this weekend.
Stranger Things is a great show to cosplay! It is even easier to everyday cosplay the characters. You can easily re-create an outfit with, a retro 80’s t-shirt, trucker cap, and converse shoes. This week, the Geeky Fashion Blogger Alliance on Instagram have showcased Stranger Things everyday cosplay. It’s amazing to see all the fabulous creations. Be sure to check out their account for future style challenges.
Over at Popcorner Reviews, Monica has created the cutest cupcakes. Decorated with themes from the programme. Using cereal to create Eleven’s favourite waffles. Or icing and M&M’s to make Joyce’s bright coloured holiday lights. Along with “Eggos” waffles, they would be ideal for a dessert buffet.
I was really hoping to find a tutorial for some Stranger Things nail art. But I couldn’t find anything cute. Fortunately, Espionage Cosmetics have some adorable Holiday Lights nail wraps. Originally, designed for wearing over the Christmas holidays, I think they would be perfect for your Stranger Things viewing party.
Finally, what is a viewing party with out a themed cocktail! Luckily Danielle at From Girlie to Nerdy has created the Upside Down Blackberry Smash. A fruity cocktail, that uses coloured vodka and fresh berries to represent the alternate dimension!
Are you having a viewing party this weekend? Or just binge watching the show as quickly as possible?
Don’t forget to check out my Stranger Thingsmust haves.
If you are in London check out Geeky Tourist’s list of “Stranger Things” to do in London this weekend.
Without a doubt, one of the huge success stories of 2016 was Stranger Things. For the months, fans have waited for the next season. So many questions were left unanswered. Hopefully, later this week, we will get some resolutions. To mark the release of the second season of Stranger Things. I thought I would put together a few of my must-haves for any fans of the Netflix show.
Last month, a Stranger Things t-shirt appeared on the Louis Vuitton catwalk during Paris Fashion Week. This week, Topshop has a pop-up store featuring sets from the show as well as selling their new Stranger Things range. Providing the show is really on trend at the moment! #geekchic
It was hard for me to pick just one t-shirt. But as I said they are this season’s all-important fashion item, so I have included three! I love the vintage feel of this Hawkins Power & Light shirt from Topshop. Similarly with the “Visit Hawkins” tee, or you can go for the classic poster t-shirt.
It was a shock to me, to discovered that there aren’t any official books related to Stranger Things. Why hasn’t someone turned it to a graphic novel? I did find a few unofficial book and thing cute Book of Barbs, which is full of 80’s geekiness.
Everyone loves a Pop Funko figure, but I do like some of the newer vinyl collectibles. This pair of VYNL figures is so cute, Eleven with her Eggos and my favourite Barb! Speaking of Eggos, we can’t actually get Eggos in the U.K. (shocking I know), but you can get Bird’s Eye Toaster Waffles, which I believe are similar and ideal for a snack whilst binge-watching season two.
This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I will earn a commission. You will not pay more when buying a product through my link.
I have seen this quick challenge on a few blogs, The Howling Wolfheart originally started the A to Z movie challenge. However Geeky Brunette expanded it to include television programmes. I have attempted to do both challenges!
A to Z Movies
The Avengers Breakfast at Tiffany’s Captian America: The Winter Solider Dazed and Confused Empire Strikes Back Finding Nemo Guardians of the Galaxy Heathers Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade Juno Kill Bill Lion King
The Magnificent Seven National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Oceans Eleven Pulp Fiction
The Quick and The Dead Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Star Wars: A New Hope Terminator Unforgiven Veronica Mars Wonder Woman X-Men Yu-Gi-Oh! The Movie: Pyramid of Light Zack and Miri Make a P*rno
A to Z Television Programmes
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Breaking Bad C.S.I. Crime Scene Investigates Doctor Who Elementary Firefly Game of Thrones House of Cards iZombie
Marvel’s Jessica Jones K
Marvel’s Luke Cage??? Mad Men
The Night Of Orphan Black Pretty Little Lies Quantum Leap Ripper Street Sherlock Twin Peaks Unbreakable Kimmy Schimdt Veronica Mars
The Wire
The X-Files Yu-Gi-Oh! Z
I was unable to think of any TV shows being with “K” or “Z,” can you think of any? The Killing (the orginial Danish version), has been on my to watch list for a while. Maybe it’s time I checked it out.
With all the cold wet weather in February, it would have been really easy to spend the month hibernating indoors. Instead I have tried to get outdoors more. The Pokémon Go app update helped, and I spend most the weekends in February catching up with friends. Of course, I still have binge watched a few shows on Netflix!
Currently Reading… Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs by Henry Carroll
I am a lot more confident taking photos, than I was this time last year. However, I am still not 100% happy with my knowledge. I have signed up for a more advanced photography course (and a Photoshop module for a quick refresher course). As a result I picked up a few books in extend my knowledge including Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs.
I am a coffee addict, but in the colder months Hot Chocolate is my guilty pleasure (especially with marshmallows). When I saw the new version on Pret’s Instagram feed, I wanted to try it. Made with Coconut milk, it tastes like a Bounty Bar! Currently Watching… The Vampire Diaries
After reading the Twilight books, like most I became obsessed vampires. I then read a several of the Sookie Stackhouse books, started The Vampire Diaries books. I watched the first seasons of True Blood and The Vampire Diaries. By the time, of the release of the movie adaptation of New Moon, I was bored. When I heard The Vampire Diaries was ending this year, I thought I start watching it again. I binge watched all seven seasons in six weeks! Bonnie and Enzo are my new favourite TV couple #bonenzo.
I signed up to IGGPPC last year, and have made so many amazing friends around the world. Over the holiday period I received several lovely parcels all with a geeky theme, including an epic Star Wars themed present with Love and Madness bracelet. Some how several of the ladies also know about my love of baby panda.
Currently Listening To… Britpop Bangers Playlist (Time Out London)
When Jason and I first meet Britpop was at the height of its popularity, albums like Urban Hymns, OK Computer and Tellin’ Stories provided the soundtrack to our lives back then. One of our first dates to was to see The Bluetones in concert. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the release of these albums.
I missed last weeks Five Fandom Friday prompts, but I really wanted to talk about the TV programmes I can’t wait to watch this year, so I am posting this a week late. The Nerdy Girlie has posted prompts for February 2017, so you to can join in.
One of my favourite show when I was at school was Twin Peaks – along with The X-Files. I am unsure if my teenage self and friends fully understood the programme or story-lines. But we all loved watching them and spend hours talking about them. I even began drinking coffee because of Agent Cooper, but could never understand his obsession with cherry pie. Years later I re-watched Twin Peaks and still loved it, I became more obsessed with the show, reading Laura Palmer Secret Diary, listening to Dale’s tapes. Obviously, I can’t wait to see what direction this show takes.
The Defenders
As a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, I was extremely interested when they announced the Netflix collaboration to bring street level heroes together as a group. Since, then I have adored the first season of Daredevil, Jessica Jones and Luke Cage. I might not have enjoyed the second season of Daredevil as much, but I did love The Punisher. So the idea of seeing these heroes (and Iron Fist) working together sounds amazing.
Game of Thrones
I know this season will be the next to the last season, I know it is a shorter season, and that we have to wait longer for this season to start. That hasn’t stopped me desperately waiting to find out who will win the “Game of Thrones”.
Without a doubt the surprise hit show of 2016 was Stranger Things. We binge-watched the first season in a weekend and they re-watched it several month later – just to see if missed anything the first time around.
The Walking Dead
I will be honest, I wasn’t too impressed with the first half of season seven of The Walking Dead. The killing off of one of the favourite characters. Other characters changing their personality and the general direction of heroes story-lines all seemed frayed. However the last episode of the mid-season seemed to set them all back on the right path and return the show back to the programme I love.
Thank you The Nerdy Girlie & Super Space Chick for creating Fandom Friday check out their blogs for more information. Or follow the #fandom5 or #5fandomfriday on Twitter.
Currently Knitting… Pink Pussyhat.
I adored seeing the images of sea of pink hats at the Women’s March. I didn’t have time to knit a hat before the protest, but still want to be part of this amazing project. So I have just started knitting a pink hat.
This year, I set myself a Goodread Challenge to read 24 books. Their challenges include Graphic Novels so I am planning on reading at least one a month. This month I have re-read the first Cassandra Cain, Batgirl book.
Currently Watching… House of Cards
I think everyone has that one TV programme they have yet to watch. The programme all your friends have watched but for some reason you missed watching. For me it was House of Cards. With all the events happening in U.S. politics this month it seemed like the right time to start watching this award-winning series.
Currently Listeining to… Hamilton (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
I managed to get tickets for one of the West End performances for Hamilton, since then I have had the soundtrack on a loop at home. Currently Loving… Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Last week, they released the official title of Star Wars Episode 8. Since then I have chatted to friends and speculating about what the title means. Who is the Last Jedi? As Jedi is also the plural is there more than one last Jedi? Does this mean we will get a major death? Is Leia a Jedi? So many questions we will have to wait until December to get our answers.
This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I will earn a commission. You will not pay more when buying a product through my link.
I have put together a little Review Of The Year Blog Tag. Just a few questions to talk about some of the highs and a low of 2016. Feel free to join in and use the graphic. I look forward to reading your answers.
Highlight – What one great thing happened to you this year.
Losing so many icons this year, has been truly awful. It’s hard to think of highlights. But I did have a few. Finally, visiting Barcelona in March, Star Wars Celebrations in July and attending the Fan Screening of Doctor Strange in October.
Surprise – Be it TV show, film, game etc. that impressed you the most.
This answer is the little odd for me, for the majority of the year it’s been Stranger Things. But last week I watched The OA. Beforehand, I knew nothing about this show, hadn’t read any reviews, didn’t know about the cast etc. I just saw a tweet that claimed it was the new Stranger Things. Within two days I went from never hearing of the show to full on obsession.
New Fandom – Did you gain a new obsession in 2016?
So I am a little late to the game with this one, but Hamilton has become my latest obsession! I am hoping to get tickets to see the West End production of the show next year.
The Comeback Kid – Was one of your fandoms rebooted, re-released, or re-imagined.
I guess Gilmore Girls. I did have some objections with the show (I hope to write about it soon). But it was so lovely to visit Stars Hallow once again.
Still going strong? – did one TV show have an amazing season. Or did a book series have a truly impressive release this year. Game of Thrones! I was a little concerned about season six as it was the first season that didn’t use the books as a guide. However, the season extremely impressed me (especially with the Battle of the Bastards episode).
Biggest disappointment of the Year. The Killing Joke movie. I wrote about my disappointment of the movie adaption. I had really been looking forward to this movie. I arranged to go to the special screening in our local cinema and left feeling upset and disappointed.
Event of the year – be it a convention, viewing party, geek girl brunch etc.
Star Wars Celebrations! I reviewed my experiences here.
What are you looking forward to next year.
I guess it will start with new episodes of Sherlock in January.
Our 10 year wedding anniversary in March.
Films I am looking forward to including Lego Movie: Batman, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Wars 9!
Quick Fire Round
TV Show of the Year: Stranger Things Movie of the Year: Rogue One Game of the Year: Pokémon Go Book of the Year: The Good Immigrant (non-fiction) and Rebels of the Sands (fiction) Album of the Year: The Hamilton Mixtape
I was really hoping to find a tutorial for some Stranger Things nail art. But I couldn’t find anything cute. Fortunately, Espionage Cosmetics have some adorable 
Finally, what is a viewing party with out a themed cocktail! Luckily Danielle at 
I have seen this quick challenge on a few blogs, 
