Favorite Knitting Accessory

For Secret Pal 10 we were asked to blog about our favorite knitting accessory, so here it goes ...

First off, I don't have many knitting accessories to speak of. I have a cable needle that I still haven't used, a row counter that I still haven't used, and a retractible tape measure that hangs around the neck. One of these days I'm going to get a pair of those handy little folding scissors that also hangs around the neck. Until then I will borrow someone else's at SnB or use my big scissors while at home. That being said, my favorite knitting accessory has to be the retractible tape measure for two reasons.

1. I like to knit patterns that tell you to knit until item measures X number of inches versus having to count rows. The tape measure is right there for me when I need it.

2. It serves as a great distraction for the boys. When i'm knitting and they are trying to pull on my yarn all I have to do is hand them the tape measure and they are entertained for a good ten minutes, allowing me to finish the row i'm working on before stopping to attend to their needs.