When we saw the query Stitch 'N Bitch Nation in our search logs, we knew knitting had reached the pantheon of fads. Of course Stitch 'N Bitch Nation is a book by Debbie Stoller, the ultimate yarnoscenti. This hot DIY - do it yourself - fad and book has launched a bunch of cool phrases. Our favorite is the Pre-knitual which is an agreement that boyfriends of knitters must sign, committing them to speak honestly about knitted presents. This is Stoller's second knitting book propelling the raging fad of knitters, and this time around men are getting into the act.

We have written a great deal about the hot trend of knitting and crocheting but haven't mentioned much about men taking up the hobby. Not wanting to be left out of the latest fad, men are absolutely joining the trend. There is even an official site, Men Knit.net, to give you support and correct the misconception that men don't knit. Their slogan - man enough to knit; strong enough to purl. Fans of the Lycos 50 Blog may recall back in February we linked to the Men Knit site.

And if all the celebrity endorsements and quality time with your partner weren't enough, there may even be a health benefit to knitting. According to Dr. Herbert Benson, co-author of The Relaxation Response you can lessen the effects of stressful thoughts through the repetition of a prayer, word, sound, phrase, or muscular activity such as knitting.

Believe it or not, some of the more prestigious private schools around the country are implementing knitting instruction in the elementary grades. According to the schools, the benefits include coordination and blending mathematical discipline with artistic creativity. And in case the students fear being labeled uncool, just let them know some of their favorite celebrities knit. Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz were among many other celebrities who were photographed with their needles and yarn. This celebrity photo op coined the acronym" KIPing," for knitting in public. And guys, even Russell Crowe has been caught KIPing.

Here are the top 20 knitting searches for the first three months of 2005:

1. Free Knitting Patterns
2. Knitting
3. Denise Knitting Needles
4. Knitting Looms
5. Knitting Needles
6. Knitting Yarn
7. Knitting Supplies
8. Knit Baby Booties
9. Knitting Machine
10. Knitting Instructions

11. Knit Skull Hat Pattern
12. Learn to Knit
13. Free Baby Knitting Patterns
14. Knitting Stitches
15. Free Knitting Lessons
16. Knit Sox Patterns
17. Kniftyknitter
18. Knitting by a hook
19. How to Knit Stitches
20. Holiday Knitting Patterns

Additional reporting by Kristen Conroy who says "Knit Happens.'