Working away...........

I have been working as time will allow on three quilt tops.
Two tops are finished except the binding, the Pinwheel and the Ohio Star

I also have most of the block finished for an American Flag quilt.
Thanks to friend, Alexis, here is how I think the Flag top will look when
restitched together

Was doing some research on the Arts & Crafts movement this morning for DH. I came across the following quote I think will be enjoyed by all my "handy" friends. The Stickley brothers and Roycroft are major names in the A & C movement in the USA. This quotation from John Ruskin formed the Roycroft "creed":

"A belief in working with the head, hand and heart and mixing enough play with the work so that every task is pleasurable and makes for health and happiness".

Cold Nights, Warm Quilt

What better project for the cold winter than a nice warm quilt? I've long admired a quilt that is frequently seen on my favorite TV sit com, As Time Goes By. So here is the beginning of my version of that lovely PinWheel pattern quilt.

The blocks are not pieced together yet -- just laying there -- more blocks to finish before deciding the final layout.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The top is moving along nicely -- I'm amazed since so far all of it is hand pieced.
Here's how it looks as of Monday, Jan. 11, 2010

Just two more blocks to finish -- they will be the same as the one in the lower left corner -- yellow batik -- they go in the two empty spaces near the top.

Today's mail...........

Today's mail brought two wonderful photos.
First, grandson Luke's high school graduation photo.
Luke is #3 grandson -- 2 older, 4 younger.
He can't possibly be that old --- but what a handsome young man he is.










Also, a Christmas photo from Lego Land in California. All decked out for the holidays, musician daughter Steph and her good friend Bill took a minute to have a photo taken between playing their lovely music.
_______________________________________
And this photo of grandson. Colin, #5 grandson, who is in Louisiana with his Dad, Mom and 3 brothers volunteering their time to help rehab houses. I am so proud of them all -- hope DD won't mind I "borrowed" this photo from her Facebook page :-)

Fun and GAMES..............

I received the below from my brother, Don, in Indiana.
Any of you who are familiar with Cribbage know what a great hand this is.
The best hand you can get is a score of 29 -- this hand scores 28 -- if the queen were any of the jacks it would have been a perfect 29 hand.

Glad you were playing against Mike instead of me, Don. LOL -- good for you.

Concert.....................

With the holidays fast approaching, there is a lot of activity going on and some fresh snow too. Last night was the Christmas Concert for 3 of the grandsons. Second, fourth and sixth grades.

Wishing you all peace, love, and joy.

And Snow

Today brought some snow -- I usually have old sheets on the laundry room floor so the dogs don't drag in lots of mud -- that means washing the sheets frequently -- and Polly, our wonderful black lab, has discovered that sheets just from the dryer are warm and cozy and just waits to have one draped over her.

Two Give-Aways

1. Friend, Kerry, has a nice give-away posted on her blog. Click here to sign up: Kerry's Give-Away and to check out all her wonderful things go to: Kerry's Blog.

2. Another give-away is a great beading book-- The Lone Beader has this give away sign up posted HERE. I was fortunate to win one of the books in The Lone Beader's drawings and it is great.

Another one I couldn't resist posting..........

With all the extra holiday goodies that will be consumed in the coming weeks, just had to post this thought:

Days gone by ... Rug Hooking ...

I don't know how I got on "By-gone Days Road" today --- oh, yes, I do remember. I was looking at Maggie's BLOG and saw a link to rug hooking -- that reminded me of all the fun I had hooking rugs a few years ago -- and of all the wonderful Hooking Friends I made and still have. I wish there were more hours to a day -- don't we all? -- there are so many things I would still like to be working on -- may just have to pick up the 2-3 UFO rugs and work on them again. Most of the hooked items I made were given away and I don't have photos -- or at least digital photos -- but here are a couple photos that I do have --

Holiday Lights....Lincoln Park Zoo

Holiday Zoo Lights -- be sure to click on the arrows for more photos. Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO LIGHTS

Birthday Bracelet......

Today's mail brought a wonderful bracelet made for my birthday by friend Lynn in California. I just love it, Lynn, and my very favorite colors too -- thank you so very much -- I treasure it and our friendship. [I have posted two photos in an attempt to show the beautiful colors] Click photos to enlarge

Oh my gosh.....

Oh my gosh, I can't believe it is almost a month since I posted here on my blog. The time has flown by -- Thanksgiving has come and gone (and a wonderful one it was too) -- several birthdays have been celebrated and youngest grandson celebrates his birthday on the 11th. Then it will be Christmas -- and in case I don't get back here until after the first of the year, thank you all for your visits and the comments you have left and emails sent to me -- I truly appreciate hearing from you all and am sending my best wishes for a wonderful Christmas for each of you and your families -- I will do better here after the first of the year. In the meantime, here's a picture of Polly and Munchkin -- that was the day before the lab, Polly, found a tiny opening in the zipper, pulled out all the foam rubber padding and shredded it into tiny bits -- well, it did make a cute photo :-)

Bag almost finished....

Here is the bag -- I'm not sure I like the size of the I-cord for the "strap" so will experiment with smaller size DPN's and see if I like that better. The solid blue yarn felted beautifully but the multi not as well -- but it looks pretty good anyway. Fun to do.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Went to JoAnn Fabric this morning and picked up some nice wool on sale to make a couple more bags with. The yarn is quite pretty.

Experimenting with some wonderful wool.....

Just having some fun with some beautiful wool --- will post progress in the days to come. This is such lovely yarn.

Fall Colors....

It is a rainy, dark, day -- but even that can't take away the beauty of the Fall colors. Before all the leaves fall, wanted to get at least a couple photos of the fall colors -- these are just standing in the front in the drizzle --but how pretty it is :-)

Favorite LYS not really so "local".......

My favorite LYS is really not so "local" -- Most of you know I make trips to the "city" a couple times a month -- I usually go 1/2 to 1 hour early because my destination is close to my favorite LYS -- albeit, "local" in this case is over 40 miles away. Matters not -- a trip to Sister Arts Studio is always a delight. These pictures were just taken with my phone, but wanted to share my favorite place with you. You will see some of Rebecca Danger's delightful monsters in the window (see previous post) -- and if you look closely, you will see Donna in one of the photos. If any of you are in the Chicago area, be sure to look up Donna and Sister Arts Studio

Alberta the Happy Little Monster

Alberta, the happy little monster is finished. She is my first little monster (of the knitted variety, LOL). She "sits" about 8 inches tall and was made from a pattern by Rebecca Danger called Albert the Absent Minded Monster -- but with the pinks in mine I named her Alberta. You can find Rebecca's fun patterns on her blog by clicking HERE.

Here is the link to Rebecca's ETSY SHOP.

Ouch & Getting Ready to head South ~~~~~

ALBERTA ~ The Happy Little Monster
Ouch, I'm getting squashed under here -- is it really necessary to do this just to hold my mouth on -- my eyes are popping out with the pressure -- well, tomorrow I should be able to appear here all done -- it is rather embarrassing this way :-)

GETTING READY TO HEAD SOUTH ~~~~~


Yesterday the birds took over the spruce in the back yard --there were hundreds of them in there -- getting ready for their trip south. This is the first time ever I have seen them in that tree going crazy. There were Cedar Waxwings, Robins, Cardinals, Chickadees and a few others. Mostly you can see the Cedar Waxwings in this photo -- but if you look close at the upper right you can see a Cardinal. They were all so lovely.

Another Super Fall Day

Today I met up with DD, DSIL and 4 DGS at our local Pumpkin Farm. It was a gorgeous afternoon, and if you check out the slide show, you will see all the fun things we were able to do in one afternoon. One of the most fun things was standing "face to face" with a beautiful giraffe and having him eat oh so gently from our hands. What a thrill. But best of all was sharing a lovely afternoon with family. To see the slide show, click the VIEW ALL IMAGES button below.

How about a ride on a camel?

Fun fall afternoon .....

Silky soft Alpaca toy -- and a skein of alpaca yarn. This will be the first time I have knit anything with yarn from an animal I have "met" in person. Thank you, Primrose She is a sweetie.


Grandson Drew and I had a fun afternoon checking out the local Alpaca Farms. It was a gorgeous afternoon -- sunny, cool and VERY windy. These are wonderful animals and we had such a great time visiting with all the people there. We had fun walking KING ELROND. He is just a little over a year old) on a leash. If you click on his name you will find photos of him before he was sheared. What a lovely fluff ball. The sound the Alpacas make is so soft and gentle coming from a fairly large animal. I fell in love --- now I want to learn how to card and spin and all those good things.

About Alpacas

Lifespan: 15-25 years

Adult size: 4-5 feet at the head, 30-38 inches at the shoulder, weighing 105-185 pounds

Reproduction: Gestation of 11 months -- single cria, weighing 10-17 pounds
Spinning the fur into "yarn"

Free pattern for Crocheted Swirling Bag

Here's a fun bag to crochet. Knitting Daily kindly shared this pattern.Crocheted Swirling Bag, As Seen on Episode 311 - Knitting Daily

Shared via AddThis

Over the weekend.............

Over the weekend I was able to knit up a couple watch caps. They both are nice and warm and softStarted yet another -- this also in greens/browns -- don't know why I keep picking up this color combination to work with

Enjoying a beautiful fall afternoon.........

Here's our 6 year old Pug, Munchkin, enjoying our beautiful fall afternoon.

Hats, hats, and more hats.....

"Free standing" hats aren't very attractive, but pretend there is a head in each one and you will get the idea :-)

Click HERE for a slide show of a few more hats/caps.

Sequins, Beads and Bags

I was just admiring a lovely sequined purse on Maggie R's blog. CLICK HERE. Seeing the photo reminded me that I hadn't posted a photo of a lovely bead/sequin coin purse DD brough me from Cape Cod -- so here it is :-) -- isn't it lovely?

2 quick caps....

The two youngest grandsons are here for a few days. Friday we went to Hobby Lobby -- each with a discount coupon in hand -- the boys each picked out a skein of yarn for a new hat -- so that night I quick crocheted them their hats -- good thing too, as when we went to leave for a flea market early Saturday morning it was really "cold" and they both donned their new hats. This pic is of them at 7 AM Saturday, still in pj's -- trying on the hats.

Ah, peace at last....

Well. the new roof is on -- just a bit of trim and clean up and then that will be finished. We had a very heavy rain yesterday and all was dry. Whew -- what a relief.
Below a portion of the back of the house with tons of vents.
I also finished up the third pair (cranberry red ones) of crocheted sock/slippers. Started a tweedy blue pair too. Then it will be on to something elseBelow is a picture of how they look on. As I mentioned, they are very comfy :-

Noisy next few days...........

Today begins the re-roofing process. First all the old has to come off (see photo). It is very noisy in the house with 5 men and tools up on the roof. Then there will be the hammering when the new roof gets put on. Oh, my poor head LOL.

Another new project....

Ever know anyone who flits between projects like I do?????
I guess I want to try it all and feel I have to hurry to get even a small part of what I'd like to try done -- there are soooo many things and the time goes by so fast.
OK, I know the heat index the last couple has been at or near 100 degrees --so what am I doing making socks/slippers????? Who knows? It is just something I felt like doing. Here is a photo of what I have done the last couple days. Two pair finished and a good start on the first sock in cranberry red tweed. They are going to be so snugly warm on cold winter days.

New Biscornu Top

Another top finished for another biscornu.
Will try to get abetter photo.

Remembering Dad

Today is the 50th anniversary of my Dad's death
My niece, Sharry, hung the casket flag - the first time it has been unfolded, and set out a photo of Dad and Mom
The little note says:
Remembering
Webster W. Blazier
Jan. 16, 1887 ~ July 24, 1959

Thank you, Sharry -- I know Grandpa would be thrilled that you honored him today.

Take note, the flag has 48 stars, this was before Alaska and Hawaii became our 49th and 50th states.

Start of #2 Biscornu

Finished the top of this biscornu. I think it will be quite nice when when the bottom is stitched in place -- the way the two pieces are stitched together makes a wonderful looking piece.

A little more progress. Have to get this done -- friend Shari has designed a wonderful pansy biscornu that I am so anxious to stitch.
A few hours later and more done. Central portion complete -- now to do the rest. I like the way this is working up.

Here is the beginning of my #2 biscornu.
I'm also beading on a little bird.

First Biscornu just needs a button.....

My first biscornu is finished except for the button -- I'm going to a quilt show this afternoon and may find what I am looking for there -- if not, I have an idea to use a stork scissor charm center top. The stitching of the two pieces together went much easier than I thought it would -- a sweet little pin cushion.

The top is finished. Amazing how long the back stitching takes. Have to be sure the backstitch is absolutely square. Now to backstitch the back piece -- the two back stitching lines are used to piece the two pieces together so once again, the measurements must be accurate.

Three Down One to Go

Getting there.

three done,

one to go --

In Progress......

Another biscornu in progress.

I think I will stitch several and then piece them.

First Biscornu

Last night I wanted to stitch something nice, quick and easy.

The result is this beginning for my first biscornu.

Still more stitching to do and then the finishing will be a bit of a

challenge for me -- but it should be fun too.

Have a happy and safe 4th......

Let's Go For A Walk......

My wonderful friend, Pollyanna, waiting patiently to go for a walk.

Needlepoint

Dug out a UFO tonight to work on. There are sooooo many.
At least this is a small one and I hope to finish it in the near
future. A lovely Sharon G
design.

Guitar buddies

Second brother is now going to learn guitar. He has chosen a bass guitar -- and these two along with the two Smith brothers who live next door to them are planning a band. What fun these four will have over the years. Way to go !!!!!

Thinking of Christmas in June......

Sorry, Jeanne -- but I have to start thinking of Christmas now or I would never get the items done in time -- so here is a glimpse of another item on my "to-do" list before the holidays. I'm only showing part of it so it will remain a surprise for "whoever" receives it :-)

A Head Start on the Holidays.....

Time goes so fast, so really, I am not all that far ahead of the Holidays. Here are some hats, fingerless gloves and scarves I have been working on. Only one hat, the red one, has it's flower on it -- will do the other flowers in the next couple days. Love the fingerless gloves -- they are soooo comfy. The pattern for both the hat (cloche) and fingerless gloves I purchased at SHEPHERDESS BEADS in Old Town, San Diego. Love that shop.

[Close up of the flower on the hat}

Dancing with MY Star ..................

Over the weekend I went to a working turn of the century farm (preserve) with DD and her family.
My 11 year old grandson and I were standing in the doorway to an old barn and for what ever the
reason began to dance ----- aren't spontaneous moments the very best? I know it is another
moment I shall always cherish.

BelowCity boys enjoying the chickens.And just a couple weeks ago I was able to spend time with my three "San Diego Grandsons" -- this has been a very special month.

Pooches Play Date

Niece Lisa's lab, Walter,(left - 5 months old) and our Polly (right - 2 years old) had a play date again today. Since the temperature outside was over 80 degrees, Lisa had the pool filled and the pooches had a ball. Here they are, still wet, with Walter guarding a small stick and Polly awaiting the chance to grab it and run. They had a great time- besides them being cool in the pool they managed to shower both Lisa and myself --- I smelled like wet puppy.

Mother's Day 2009

This Mother's Day I was in San Diego and had a wonderful 4 day vacation with my two terrific daughters and 3 of my seven grandsons. What a wonderful time.

Got to meet Lynn.............San Diego

How lucky to be able to meet in person my long time online friend, Lynn. We had lunch together and then, of course, had to check out a few shops --- here we are in a wonderful bead shop, LOST CITIES BEADS, in Old Town, San Diego, CA. Another super shop that also had some great beads was right next door, SHEPHERDESS BEADS. Shepherdess also had some wonderful yarns and great patterns. I indulged in both :-) If you are in San Diego it is well worth the trip to Old Town just to visit these two shops.

While in Old Town La Pinata Mexican Restaurant is a must.


(La Pinata photo courtesy of Amy Boyle Photography, Chicago, IL)

Polly Has A Play Date.................

Today Polly had her first play date with "cousin" Walter P.
They had a wonderful time and played very well together.
I know Polly is looking forward to another play time.
For more cute photos of two shiny black labs, check out these photos by
CLICKING HERE
(Photos courtesy of Lisa E -- Walter's Mom)

First Photo Of a Soggy Duet

Here's Drew and his Mom during a break in the rain.
This was a 6.2 mile walk --- kudos to you all
See Drew's story
PLEASE SPONSOR OUR MARCH FOR BABIES

Please help if you can...........

Today DD, DSIL and 4 grandsons are joining the
MARCH OF DIMES WALK FOR BABIES.
It is pouring down rain -- but they are out there -- as they have been for several years now, to help raise money for a cause near and dear to our hearts. If you can give a little to help -- no amount is too small -- it will be appreciated. See
Drew's story
PLEASE SPONSOR OUR MARCH FOR BABIES

Polly & Munchkin Enjoying The Day

Polly (black lab) and Munchkin (Pug) enjoying our beautiful spring day.

New Beaded Doll I Hope to Make....

Well, I must be feeling better --- maybe it was the return of the Chickadees or the promise of nearly 80 degree weather by the end of the week -- or checking out Beaded Art Doll group and seeing the new challenge.  

Whatever the reason, I am all psyched up about doing the Beaded Babushka Doll. Here is Christine M's body made up -- this is a STAND ALONE (STUMP) DOLL -- meaning she should stand by herself when completed. She is to be 100% beaded -- that's a lot of beads :-)

Here is the form I made for my Babushka Doll. She is firmly stuffed and has a flat bottom with a nickel in it to help her stand. She is made with wonderful, colorful, Kaffee Fasset fabric which won't show when the beading is complete.

Return of the Chickadees --

What a delight to look out my kitchen window and see the return of the Chickadees --- well, not return really. They have been around all along, but I began to think they had found another nesting place when I didn't see them at the Magnolia tree --- well, today, there they were flitting in and out of the hole --I did get a photo as one was waiting for the other to come out. They are such delightful little birds and their song is soo happy.(click here) Last year they began their nesting earlier -- April 2, 2008

RainyDayFun

Spring Break and a rainy day. Grandson decided to stitch a long with me -- and this is his idea and his creation. I did the form on the sewing machine -- the rest, stuffing, sewing on eyes, braiding the tail and sewing it on along with the ears were done by DGS. A fun way to spend a rainy, cold day.

Happy Easter

Hand crocheted basket with Easter eggs

How fortunate can one be????????

I am so blessed to have such a wonderful circle of friends -- look at what the mailman brought today A gorgeous bracelet made by Jeanne. Isn't it just gorgeous? I love it. Thank you so much Jeannie. I will treasure it always. You know how to make a person feel special.

Check Out BEADING DAILY.....

How exciting to open my mail and find Beading Daily there.

Even more exciting was Robin Atkins article -- and what a thrill to
find a photo of my "Waiting Bird" included in the article. I feel like it is Christmas and I just received the very best gift.

2 Days until April .........

This is a picture of the birds filling up the day before the snow storm
The calendar says only 2 days until April -- and we have been enjoying lovely springlike weather --- but, look what we woke up to this morning.

Puppy Tail....

Couldn't resist posting these photos of my daughter's new puppy, Flynn.

Isn't he just the cutest?

Next Week It Is Back to Beading......

There's nothing like a sweet note from Robin A. to get the beading juices flowing again.

Next week it is back to beading my little birds for the BJP project.  

Thanks, Robin, your note is just what I needed :-)

CQ Block for Laurie......

===
It has been a very long time since I made a CQ block --I took a break from my knitting/crocheting and made this block for friend Laurie in Hawaii.Hope she likes it.

Beading Review....

It's been a while since I have worked on any beaded items -- so here is a review of some of the pieces I have done in the past. I'm looking forward to getting back to my beading soon.

Another Day Brightener ....

Here is the lovely pin cushion made for me by my niece, Cindy. I love all things "sewing" and this beautiful pincushion is especially loved because it was made for me by Cindy.

Day Brighteners.... :-)

I have been a bit "under the weather" for a while -- so you can imagine how my spirits were uplifted when the mail man brought these wonderful, thoughtful gifts ---

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE








A beautiful little doll from Lynn -- doesn't she look like she is running to give a hug? And if you look closely at her head, you will see all the ideas just waiting to be done. What a charmer -- she stands next to my computer where I smile at her very often thru each day.


these fantastic wrist warmer/cuffs. Linda created these and they look so charming coming out the sleeves of a coat -- they make you feel feminine even during the cold dreary days of winter.


This little sewing bag with charming doll scissor fob came from Cynthia -- it was from the Pay it Forward that was going around last year. I did not remember it was coming -- so was all the more of a surprise. Thanks, Cynthia -- I use it every day and love it.

Thank you Lynn, Linda and Cynthia -- very much.

Little Steps For February.....

Life has had me rather tied up the last few seeks -- and for a couple more weeks to come -- but I did get to knit a couple more dishcloths -- it is nice because the project is easily portable, reasonable quick to finish and very satisfying.

Early February brings a couple more dishcloths. The "Kiss Me" one is part of the monthly dishcloth group knit a long.  The multi colored one is just because the vibrant colors bring rays of light on glum, dreary, winter days -- and it was fun to do.

Keeping Hands Busy....

Though I was pretty much glued to the TV yesterday (Inauguration Day), I did manage to get a little knitting in at the same time.
I did the daily rows for the Mystery Pattern and also started this heart (Valentine) dish cloth.

Here it is finished a few days later

I Knew It, I Knew It, Thank You

Oh boy, oh boy, I just knew there was a teddy friend in there somewhere.

Thank you, thank you, Mom 

Now I have someone to play with you can go back to your beading for a while :-)

HINT, HINT ~~~~

Hint, hint, Mom ~~~

I'm so lonely --- and I am just sure there is 

another bear in here somewhere.

Tiny Thread Teddy "Goldie" Finished

Another view of "Goldie" my first thread crocheted tiny teddy.

Holiday Dishcloths....

January 8th, 2009

Above is another I  one made last night.  They are such fun to do.

Above made in December 2008

Three little dishcloths I crocheted as hostess gifts over the holidays.

The Week Between Christmas & New Year's.....

Shari, a friend from Canada, is nick named "Ms. Vortex" -- she has so many wonderful ideas and wants to share all the fun with others ---- and "Ms. V" has a way of sucking us all in -- and we love it.

The newest  are Thread Teddies --- miniature jointed teddy bears. Now, when she got us in to knitting socks I never thought I would be able to do it -- or enjoy it -- somehow knitting with multiple double pointed needles didn't seem like something I could do -- but with this delightful group, I not only did it but thoroughly enjoyed it.  And now we are on to the teeny, tiny, teddies --- and I'm loving this too.

Here's  a teaser picture -- you can see how little the blue one will be -- maximum of 3 inches tall standing -- and I am working on another that will be even smaller.  Will post photos when I have several Teds done so you can see what a difference the thread and/or crochet needle size make.

Since the boys had no school, they were able to spend a few days with us.

The "oldest" loves to help out in the kitchen and decided he would make dinner for us -- his favorite, spaghetti -

he did a great job and was assisted by his 10 year old brother.

The two younger boys always love to sew things when the are here -- pictured is a beaded piece done by the 8 year old.  Unfortunately, the 6 and 8 year old both made little felt birds and somehow I didn't get a photo of them.  Anyway, a fun time was had by all.

Christmas Gifts.....

These nine bags were made as Christmas gifts. They are first crocheted or knitted (large) and then "felted" in a hot water wash. They shrink by about 1/3 and have a nice tight finish. Fun to do and I hope fun to receive also.

Days Before Christmas.....

Not much I can show right now -- at least until after the Christmas gifts have been received -- but I can show a fun shawl I made.  

The chilly days require a little extra to keep a body warm -- so I made up (crocheted) a nice soft, warm, cozy shawl.  The top photo shows it finished -- I omitted the fringe the pattern called for -- don't like dangly stuff around my hands/wrists when I am typing, etc. This is a free pattern from Lion Brand Yarn -- if you would like the pattern, click HERE. There is also a free pattern for the knitted version.

I like this one so much I already have about 12 inches done on a second.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Gift Arrives -- Thanks, Maggie

Remember all the Pay It Forward sign ups that were going around about a year ago?

We all had a year to send out the hand made gifts for them.

Today the mailman brought a wonderful package - it was a PIF gift I had forgotten all about. 

Thank you so much, Maggie -- I love the pin and I have a very special place to use it but can't show until after the holiday as --- well, you know,  holiday "secrets" LOL.

What a delight.

Wonderful gift.....

I wanted to share with you the beautiful birthday gift I received from Lynn S.

We met each other online several years ago (time flies) and have had a special friendship ever since.

She took an old antique shoe pin cushion and refitted it with her lovely work.

Just look at the beautiful Brazilian embroidery Lynn has done.

Thank you once again, Lynn. I will cherish it always.

Yep, the snow came.....

Well, we did receive 4-5 inches of snow -- the first snow is always so pretty -- OK, we have our snow, next Christmas and then get on to spring.  :-)

I AM beading -- but with the colder weather, am thoroughly enjoying knitting socks - I just learned how to do it and just keep knitting and knitting LOL.  Here is my newest sock along with the start of it's mate -- should soon have this green pair to keep my feet warm. 

Snow is on the way....

The bird feeders have had a frenzy of activity all afternoon.  A sure sign that the weatherman is probably correct in his prediction of 3-5 inches of snow by tomorrow night. Cardinal's, Junco's, Sparrows, Finch, and the darling little Chickadee's shared the seed.  Was able to capture this photo of the Chickadee's.  They have such a happy song and are always a delight to see.  This year we were fortunate to have them nest in the hole in an old Magnolia tree - we were about to take the tree down when we spotted their nest.

The squirrels too were busy.

Blogging Friends Forever Award

Blogging Friends Forever Award

The generosity came from  Maggie R. Be sure to visit her Blog.. Lots to see there. Thanks Maggie for your kindness. I surely appreciate it.  Now I must pass this honor along.....

The Rules of this award are :

1. 5 People are allowed to receive this award

2 4 dedicated followers

3. 1 New follower to your blog who lives in another part of the world.

4. Please link back to the person who gave you this award.

So here are the friends I am passing this award along to...

1.  Linda at    Linda B ~ Threads of Love

2.  Dot at        Dot's Life and Art

3.  Aryd’ell at  Gypsy's Ramblings

4.  Arline  at    Arline-ABeadLady

5.  Hideko at    Hideko Isheda -- Crazy Quilting

Beginning of 4th pair of socks

This is just too much fun -- and practical too -- here is the beginning of my "Thanksgiving Socks" ~~ these are a heavier yarn but feel so good on the feet. 

I highly recommend knitting your own socks -- 

FOURTH PAIR FINISHED

I will learn how...I will learn how... I will.........

Still trying -- here is my latest attempt at 4 DPN sock knitting -- I love the yarn and happy bright colors -- now I just have to learn how to get the ribbing and tension right --- practice makes perfect, right? LOL It is a lot of fun, very relaxing and very portable.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Woke up to 30 degree temperature this morning -- a rude awakening that winter is close at hand. Glad I finished this sock last night (have to stitch toe closed) and today will get it's mate underway. Need to keep the feet warm LOL.

One of the things on my "Bucket List"............

Loved the idea of the "bucket list" from the movie (didn't see the movie) ~~ a list of things you would like to accomplish, etc. before you "kick the bucket".  My list is so very long I hope to be around at least another 100 years to make 

a dent it it.

Anyway, one of the things I have always wanted to do was to learn to knit socks -- great project for a beginner, right?  Well, thanks to the enthusiasm and encouragement of a group of special friends, 

I gave it a try.  

Here are my first 2 socks -- now to get their mates done.  I hope to have the blue mate done tomorrow some time, and then on to the multi colored/stripped sock's mate.  This is really fun and 4 double pointed needles is doable and I am having such fun learning. LOL.

November 10, 2008 ~~~ Finished mate to my bulky weight slipper socks:

Thoughts are with Dian.......

"I am always doing what I cannot do............"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"I am always doing what I cannot do in order to learn how to do it..."

In keeping with the above quote, 

today I went shopping -- 

take a look at the photo below 

for all the goodies I came home with.

Yep, my new "betweener" project will be to learn to knit socks.

Between my beading projects.

Wish me luck :-)

November's Beaded Doll/Pin (Beaded Art Dolls)

Below is my November piece for Beaded Art Dolls Calendar dolls.



When November's winter winds begin to blow - fly a kite and dream of Spring.


Back showing pin back and ultra suede backing

Celebration Give Away coming up..............

I can hardly believe that I am nearing 300 posts and 30,000 hits on my little blog. I hope you all have found some pleasure in my blog -- I certainly have enjoyed posting to it.  So, in celebration of these personal land marks, I will post a give away sign up as soon as either 1.  the blog registers 30,000 hits or 2. I post my 300th message. That should give me time to finish us a few UFO's and still have some fun with the Give-Away.  Thank you all -- you have made this fun for me.

Watch for the sign up.

Meme --- I've been tagged twice

I have been tagged by Arline and Lynn -- I’m not good at this stuff --
but here goes:

Seven things, huh? 
Man, don’t know if I can come up with that many but I’ll try.

1. Have lived in the same town all my life (with a short stay in San Diego).
2. Lived in the same house for almost 40 years.
3. Always have had a pet -- right now I have two dogs. My buddies, Polly the black 
Labrador Retriever and Munchkin, my sweet little Pug.
4. Played recorder with a group at a Renaissance Faire in Wisconsin for a couple summers.
5. Love to read -- usually read at least one novel a week. Enjoy David Baldacci and a few others that I run out and get their books as soon as they hit the market.
6. Love to receive gift certificates to Amazon.com for gifts -- there is so much there that I can always find something. Last time I got 2 huge spools of FireLine -- now that was a great gift :-)
7. This is something you should all know --- I truly appreciate all my online friends and have such a wonderful time on the beading groups. You all are super.

I will have to try to find 7 friends that haven't been tagged recently. It may take a while LOL.

Flea Market Find

Click on photo to enlarge

Well, it was worth getting up while it is still dark -- and heading out in the cold to a flea market about 25 miles from here. I was disappointed the gal from last month with all the beautiful MOP buttons was not there this time. 

I did find this box with MANY varied color cabochons -- and probably 500 head pins too --all for $3.00. The box was marked $6.00 but all of this dealer's items were 50% off -- I would have gone home very happy with just these, but then came across the beads that are laying around the outside of the box. The dealer called these "Christmas Beads" -- I thought maybe Mardi Gras beads --- do any of you have any ideas? They are glass beads and shown are two strings of them. 

November Calender Doll (Beaded Art Dolls)

I just finished the beading on my November piece for the Beaded Art Dolls Calender Doll Challenge.  The ultra suede is drying on the back and I hope tomorrow evening I can finish the edges and have her all done.  Then on to my BJP bird for November.

Here is #3 of the calender doll series --
November
ALMOST finished.

Sweet 16 to go....

Sixteen little bodies cut out this afternoon -- now a short time at the sewing machine to stitch them -- then turn, stuff and close and then the fun begins -- adding embellishment to this fun pieces. there is no real rush for these -- it is just nice to have something like this ready to go.

OCTOBER 9, 2008

Eight of the sixteen stitched, stuffed and ready for embellishment. When finished, most of the sixteen will go to the Comfort Doll Program.

Flea Market Munchkin

Munchkin went to a flea market with us --- she will only walk so far and she is far too heavy to carry --- so the little umbrella stroller we had left over from the grandsons came in handy once again. She loved riding around in it acting like a queen. Little does she know Polly, our lab, who is staying with Linda is having a wonderful time playing and running in the fields.

In Betweener

Decided to take a simple, easy to transport project with on our short trip tomorrow.
This simple (albeit time consuming) square stitch bracelet is what I'll be taking with.
The beads came from a garage sale and minus the Fireline the bracelet will cost less than a quarter.
I don't do much in the line of jewelry so this is my IN BETWEENER project (in between dolls, etc) LOL.

October BAD Calendar Doll Finished

Here's October Calendar Doll/Pin finished.

On to November LOL

October Calendar Doll (Beaded Art Doll Group)

Just have the backing and edging to do on my October Calendar Doll for the challenge on the beaded art doll group BAD.

BAD is such a fun group and there are always personal challenges, like the Calendar Doll, to keep our imaginations and beads busy.

New Banner

Boy, are these little birds hard to get a picture of. Wanted to try to get them together -- will keep trying, but with them as a banner it is incentive to get going on the next. (After I finish the BAD doll for October).

BJP ~ October 2008

Tonight I was able to finish my October 2008 BJP piece.
Here is October Bird -- She has Halloween colors being October and all. Her head and top body are beaded with tiny little clear pale yellow flowerette beads held in place with brown #13 Charlotte beads. The outline of the wings are lovely green silver lined beads and the center of the wings done with seed bead and bugle beads. Her underbody is peyote beaded in a shimmering orange bead. A fun little bird to do. If I can get a better photo of her soon, I will replace the one here -- too much rain to get outdoor or even daylight photos.

Below I have posted a photo of the underbody of both September and October Birds ---

Never Forget

In the days following 9/11/01 I created my 9/11 Angel. Tattered, tear stained and dirty -- Angel brought wings to those in need that day. She has hung in my sewing room ever since and each day I see her and feel that terrible pain -- and remember to live each day to the fullest and to remember to say I love you as often as possible -- to give extra hugs and to do all the things we sometimes think we can wait until later to do or say.

BJP ~ October 2008

No new photos -- just about finished with BJP October Bird.
The last bit is taking longer than I thought it would -- I decided that I needed brighter beads in order for the birds to show up in the grape vine wreath -- so October Bird is much more colorful than September Bird. It is hard for me to work in brighter colors -- don't know why, but I'm giving it a go and hope they will all work out well in the end.

More "Rotta the Hutt" aka Stinky ~ and Penny Rug Birthday Candle Mat

July and August were busy stitching months -- as have been the first few days of September. I must admit, I have enjoyed all the little projects I was able to finish.

This little candle mat I made during some of the hours sitting at the hospital or in waiting rooms. It is a little penny rug birthday candle mat. The pattern came from Prairie Point Junction. It is a sweet little mat and such fun to do.

Then there was Rotta the Hutt/aka Stinky. I have included some photos of DGS with Stinky. I think you can tell by the look on his face that this was a special gift. And it certainly was special for me too. These moments are so wonderful. I am one very lucky Mom and Gram

Star Wars:Clone Wars Rotta the Hutt / aka Stinky

On one of the last days before school began, had one of our younger grandsons with us for a long weekend.  I always have such a fun time with all the boys -- this time we went to the Star Wars movie: The Clone Wars.  After we came home DGS was going thru my bowl of dolls and he pulled out the “Idle Time” dolls -- said they looked (shape-wise) like baby Rotta the Hutt from the movie (hint, hint, Gram -- how about a green one with huge eyes and a big mouth) LOL --  so, to go with the Lego set for his birthday this weekend, he will also get Little Rotta (AKA Stinky) to sit on his shelf.

Baby Rotta (AKA Stinky) doesn't look a lot like himself -- but know the GS will love it anyway.  

Guess you had to see the movie to love Stinky LOL.

Here's Stinky with his travel bag all set to go live with grandson. I know he will be happy there.

BJP ~ September 2008

Here is my first BJP project piece.

September 2008

All 12 months will be little birds of this shape

When finished, I hope to place them in a grapevine wreath 

and place it above the fireplace.

I know this will be a fun year long project.

Scissor Fob Exchange

(Click on photo to enlarge)
Here is a photo of a lovely scissor fob I received in an exchange from friend Kerry in Canada.
Isn't it lovely? I just love the large open "bead".  Thank you, Kerry, I love it.

Beautiful New Bead Book

Some of you already know of Judy Walker 

and her breathtaking beading.

Judy is a fantastic beader, teacher and designer. 

She has a wonderful new book that has just 

been published (see photo cover above).

For more information, go to  JUDY'S WEBSITE  

there you will find more information about Judy, 

her book, and her classes 

along with many helpful links.

Greatest Gift....

One of the most wonderful gifts in the world is the 

spontaneous gift of a child.

Here is my lovely "bouquet" from my (almost) 8 year old grandson.

Another Beginning.... Free Form Bracelet

I was able to play around a bit more tonight -- have decided NOT to take this apart --it will be a good practice piece for the different things I hope to do. 

And who knows?

It may end up just fine :-)

And away I go again :-)  Off to try something new once more.

This time I will be trying a free form bracelet.  

Pictured is the very beginning.  

I think it will be must interesting to do.

Calender Doll Challenge ~ September 2008

This little pin/doll is for the  challenge on  Beaded Art Dolls Group of a doll a month for one year.

She is my September offering.  I call her "Falling Leaves", also known as Amber :-)

She is beaded with the lush colors of fall, bronzy golds, browns, green and her face and the leaves are of brass.

She has a pin back with a bale, so I will be making a beaded chain so she can be worn as a pin or necklace.

Thank you, my friends......

Saturday I went to my bead group meeting after a long absence. To my great surprise and delight, Toni, one of the beaders had made little doll bodies for the other members of the group and brought them to a meeting for the gals to finish as friendship/brighten your day gifts for me -- I just can't get over how sweet these ladies are -- and I will cherish the little dolls forever. After so many months of being a care giver it was such a boost to be given these little gifts and I thank you once again. You are the greatest.