stix and a ball of string....

June was Crochet Month

2010-07-05T10:49:00.004-04:00

This month I took a break from knitting bibs and decided to do some crocheting. Our local hospital was in need of some blankets and outfits so I pulled out my favorite patterns, yarn, hooks then settled into my recliner.

My blankie is a star blanket that is definitely one of my favs! It is a pattern written by Crochet Dad.

Want to try one? Here is Crochet Dad's blog-

http://crochetdad.blogspot.com/

And my little outfit....well....where else would I get this pattern but from my charity friend Bev's site. Her site is my second home as I go there consistently for anything I need a pattern for. I recommend her site to all the TTT volunteers as there is no better site for a collection of baby patterns...and they are all free! Is she not awesome!!

Oh....it would be great of me to give you a link to Bev's site....sorry!

Here it is....grab an iced tea, cup of joe, etc. and browse....I promise that you will not leave her site without a to-do list of projects.

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/

The weather has been terribly hot this year so small projects have been on my menu for the last month or so. July is here and I know that this month will be a hot one...so it will be maybe a sockie month? .... booties?..... more bibs?....who knows! But I do know that whatever the project it will be fun.

Have a safe and blessed Summer Fiber Friends....stay cool...

G2G

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
– Mahatma Gandhi

Hi all.

2009-04-27T10:12:00.003-04:00

As always I am late posting to my blog. Sorry, I am just not a good blog journalist. I didn't have a diary when I was a kid and just never started a journal when I was older so why I began a blog I am just not sure. But I am thankful that my life is so blessed and full that I do not have time for the blog :) But anyway, for the updates.

Spring has arrived and everything is just lovely. We have had some super warm temperatures lately - in the 90's which is really warm for our area. So Hubby is happy as he has begun his Spring yard work. And me...I have started my Spring cleaning. I have decided to do some major cleaning this year - which means if we don't use it-we don't keep it! I need to clean out and clean up so this is the year.

I have been working on my fiber stash trying to get some of that spun up. I would love to purchase some new fibers but I have promised myself that until I get some of my stash spun I will not purchase any more. It has been hard since I have seen some lovely wools but I am so far sticking to my resolution.

Since the warm temperatures have started I have moved to smaller projects. I have been working on booties and bibs for the babies and some lightweight prayer shawls for the church ministry. I finished the two lap robes that I had started for the PR Rez project for this Fall so I think that I will hold off on any more of those until cooler weather.

Enjoy your stitches....and knit on....

Blessings,
GB2G

No Snow....just cold temperatures

2009-02-04T13:50:00.002-05:00

Snow....snow....no snow! For some reason Mr. Snow does not want to come to visit us in the foothills. We have the cold, cold temperatures, some very windy days - and some very tiny, tiny wind snow flakes. But no snow on the ground, trees or anywhere near our house. As you can see we are right in the middle of the

fronts so it will be no snow for me. (how very, very sad)

I know that there of those out there in fiber land who have been snowed in for some time and would love to share some of your wealth with me. And I appreicate that and also am praying for those of you who have no power.

On to the fiber front..this month has been bib month for me. I have found some adorable knit patterns for baby bibs and have been enjoying those. (photos coming)

I have also been working on several prayer shawls (we have lost several good friends to cancer lately).

I finished my hat that I was working on (the ear flap hat) it turned out very well. I will post some pictures of it soon.

Have a great day all...stay warm :)

*GB2G*

Hi! I am alive...

2009-01-21T16:18:00.004-05:00

Yes, believe it or not I am actually still alive. After 6 months and no word from me I guess everyone thought that I had dropped off into the unknown. Nope! Just a very lazy blogger. I really do have great plans and super good intentions but I never seem to get the time to get them all done...thus my poor blog goes neglected and feels as if I do not love it.

Alas, I will really try to do better in 2009 (we will see you say) but I really will. I have been working on many crafts...but as always I gave them away before taking pictures. But I can at least tell you about them.

...I needle knitted several tote bags and felted them for Christmas gifts....loomed some slippers for the SIL and hubby....crocheted and knitted dishcloths and scrubbies...knitted, loomed and crocheted several hat, scarf and fingerless glove sets including one pair of wool gloves for me!

I am working on an adorable hat that is in the Jan/Feb. 2009 issue of Crochet Today! It is crocheted using colorful sock yarn. It is a very easy pattern but makes the cutest hat. You can see a photo of the hat here http://www.crochettoday.com/articlepage.aspx?articleid=369

Check it out and I will post some pics of mine when I get done.

My poor spinning wheel has also been neglected over the holiday season but I hope to remedy that really soon. The temperatures have been really cold here...no snow :( ....but cold days and nights - the perfect spinning weather so I am planning some very important spinning time.

Well...off to do some paperwork....stay warm all....love those yarns...and have lots of fiber fun :)

*G2G*

the month of May-hem....

2008-06-12T20:20:00.011-04:00

For the babies.....

Shirts for the babies....these are some shirts that I crocheted for the "little ones" of TTT.

The yarn is LB microspun (a very soft and cuddly yarn) and the pattern is from my favorite pattern site - "dear Bev's" at Bev's Country Cottage.

Thank you so much Bev for being such a wonderful source of charity crafting patterns and info.

Would you like to make some too? I know that there is a NICU near you that would just love to have some of these for their babies. And they are such fun to make.

It is a wonderful pattern (easy too!). You can find it here. http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/baby-shirt.html

Make a few and donate them to a near-by hospital - they will love them!

PRAYER SHAWLS

This is a crocheted prayer shawl that I made for a friend of mine and hubby's that is battling cancer right now.

It was crocheted using an "N" hook and LB Homespun yarn.

The pattern is just a simple hdc but it makes a very warm and soft piece.

Prayers going out for you ES - May God be with you in your battles and bring you through them with great victory.

I have two other prayer shawls started for some other friends that are also battling cancer. So many dear people are dealing with this dreadful disease. I pray for a cure really soon.

AC4C Projects ...

These knitted booties were for the May AC4C project.

They are knitted in Patron's Wool (yes I said wool). We were making items for an Indian Rez and it is very cold there so they needed warm items for the little ones.

The colors are Too Teal and Too Pink and are knitted using Beth's pattern. I love this pattern - it makes a simple but very neat and warm bootie.

Want to try it? You can find it here. http://bundlesoflove.org/EasyKnittedBooties

I also knitted some squares for afghans for the AC4C May project (but forgot to take pics before I mailed them). But they were just simple squares so you didn't really miss much (hee-hee)

I have also gotten so hooked on dishcloths. A wonderful yahoo group called "Monthly Dishcloths" does two KAL each month. I will post some photos of the ones that I have completed soon.

Well...I guess that is all the may-hem for now so I will roll out. Until next time....knit on!

And to all the victims of the floods, tornado, hurricanes and fires - you are in our prayers.

^.. ^

"wooly hugs"

*GB2G*

A beautiful Weekend

2008-05-26T11:29:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful weekend! Warm temperatures, clear blue skies, white fluffy clouds ... such a masterpiece created by God. It was just super!

I had to spend some time outside and enjoy the Spring weather. It was just too great to stay inside.

So....we did some yardwork, planted some garden veggies, and enjoyed some lunch on the deck.

A day spent enjoying the gift of time....nature...and family. PTL

Also a day giving thanks....thanks to God for the wonderful veterans who fought for our country so that we could enjoy the wonderful freedoms that we have. A special thank you to all of our service people .... those who have fought and for those who are still fighting today.

God bless you all.

Scarf Project for Pine Ridge

2008-03-25T10:23:00.000-04:00

Scarves for the Pine Ridge Rez was a project that was being done by the CFAC yahoo group. (A wonderful group of folks that do all types of crafting for charity.)

The project was to make warm, soft, cozy scarves (knitted, crocheted, loomed or sewn) and then to ship them to the PR reservation to keep our friends there warm.

These are the scarves that I did some of them are knitted, some crocheted and a few were loomed. The yarn came from my stash - different types and brands but they all made pretty scarves.

Keep warm my friends.

Spring is here...

2008-03-05T23:59:00.001-05:00

Spring has finally arrived and I am ready for it.

Our winter was a very mild one....warmer temperatures than normal and very little bad weather. Only one snow and it was a small one, which was very sad but the time for pretty flowers, green grass, garden planting, grilling outdoors and enjoying cool evening breezes is here!

Welcome Spring ... we are so happy you are here!

Blankets Galore

2008-02-17T09:14:00.000-05:00

Lately, it has been blanket blinge time. Every once in a while you just get an urge to make something in particular. When this happens, you get an itch that has to be scratched then you must take care of this immediately.

So... you begin your journey by checking the yarn stash .... choosing the yarns that call out "choose me - take me". Now our yarns have been chosen, so it is off to our second step - the pattern.

Off to the bookshelf.... we will take a stroll through our magazine stash, piles of papers that have cherished patterns that we have printed off while "surfing the net" and our prized collection of books. When we have chosen our patterns...then it off to knitting and/or crocheting.

And voila! Our itch has been scratched....our blankets are done... a project has been completed and gift for a charity is done.

What a wonderful day!

Our first snow...

2008-02-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

Wow! Old Man Winter has not forgotten where we live....too cool - finally some snow!

It was a small snow but it was really beautiful. And it was good for a day off from work - hee hee! So....guess where I will be today....do you give up?

I will be sitting in my favorite chair beside the fireplace, gas logs flickering with soft warm glows, warm and cozy knitting away .

I am working on a prayer shawl for a friend of my daughter. R... is battling cancer, a very young wife, mother, and friend who is in our thoughts and prayers. Hopefully I will finish the shawl today so daughter can take it to her this weekend.

Well....off to my knitting....enjoy the snow!

A New Year Begins

2008-01-12T13:21:00.000-05:00

Well....missed last month didn't I? December is always a very hectic month around our house. Trying to get all the year-end bookkeeping done....shipping out last minute TTT items...trying to decorate for the holiday season...planning family get-togethers...and.....finishing up handmade Christmas gifts. I am always saying every year that I am going to complete my knitted gifts early and every year I end up at the last minute trying to finish...have even been up on Christmas Eve some years. But anyway...the scarfs, hats, gloves, slippers and shawls were all done and wrapped in time for Christmas. And I even did a giftie for me! These lovely fingerless gloves are for me - knitted in worsted with No. 7 needles these are my little warmers and I love them :)

I just finished this vest for my elder at Pine Ridge Reservation. It was a very simple pattern - making a comfortable but warm vest. I got the pattern from a ball band on LB Woolease yarn.

It is crocheted with a K hook with two strands of yarn. It takes about 6 balls of woolease yarn and I used some scrap yarn for the trim.

The pattern called for pockets on the front but I omitted those since I wanted to put some stitching on the front. I am pleased with the way it turned out and hope to get it in the mail next week. It will feel really good with the cold temperatures that are happening right now in SD.

I have been working on some knitted cotton dishcloths this month too. I have gotten the dishcloth bug lately. I will post some photos of those next time as blogger is not wanting to do photos today...really slow ....lots of error messages ... so will do those next time.

Until then.....blessings and happy crafting.....

*GB2G*

:) ttt knits

Stripes of Glory and thanks....

2007-11-20T12:13:00.000-05:00

To all the veterans and for those who are serving now.....many, many thanks for fighting for us and those who are at home.

May God bless and keep those safe who are in foreign countries today fighting for our freedoms.

This afghan is called "Stripes of Glory". It is a 42 x 80 afghan that I crocheted for the American Red Cross. They did a special blood drive on Veteran's Day.

It was crocheted all in single crochet (in back loops only to give a rippled effect) using Caron yarn. Hand-tied tassels were put on the ends.

It was raffled off and the proceeds went to the American Red Cross.

My latest projects

2007-08-18T14:21:00.001-04:00

These are the wool soakers that I made for Father's House in Ohio (AC4C). The green and white ones were loomed knitted with homespun wool on the green KK loom.

The red ones were needle knit with Patron's wool and the brown one was knit with some wonderful Jacob wool that I bought from Markman Farm.

These were the first soakers that I have made but I was pleased with the way that they turned out.

This is a sweater that I needle knitted for FH. I used the guidepost sweater pattern - a favorite pattern of mine.

The yarn was Patron's wool (another favorite of mine) and worked up very nicely.

I did several of these sweaters in different colors for FH - they work up very quickly and this a good pattern for charity work. It makes a good one-size fit sweater.

I am in a diaper shirt mode this month ...so....I guess next month's donations will be diaper shirts.

Have a wonderful month all.....happy smiles...

*GB2G*

A weekly update..

2007-07-08T19:20:00.000-04:00

on my looming experiences for the first week of July. A very hot week I might add but a good week for staying in.....hugging the air conditioner and looming my little heart out. Too bad I have to work....my job really cuts into my crafting time

This is my completed double thick tube scarf. I loomed it with two strands of wool blend yarn (some odds and ends from my stash) using my round hat loom. It was some wonderful mindless knitting - just a one over one knit stitch and keep going until you get the length that you want.

I took it off the loom with my crochet hook then crocheted a row of single crochet then one row of shells. I did this on both ends and it made a very warm and snuggly scarf.

This was another scarf for the FH project on the AC4C group...so, in the Father's House box it goes with the other goodies.

My wrist warmers....this project was for me. These were loomed on my preemie hat loom using woolease yarn.

The pattern is one that was written by a loomy friend, Janice.

It was a Spring contest pattern entry for Lynn's group contest - the Markman Loom group.

A very simple, easy to follow pattern that makes a great pair of wrist warmers. I will definitely make some more of these for gifts. This pair is for me

Next week's project.......loomed wool diaper covers.....yeah!

Have a wonderful week all.....keep cool......and keep on loomin'

*GB2G*

Latest looming...

2007-07-05T16:13:00.000-04:00

These are my latest looming projects....magic scarves. 3 balls of fun fur and a yellow KK loom or the Markman beret loom will be all you need to make these lovely scarves.

A very simple, mindless knitting project...something has been really good for me during the month of June (a very hectic month for me). So if you want to just watch the kids in the park, knit during your fav tv show or just some quiet time knitting this is the project for you.

Very simple pattern - knitted with one strand, using the one over one (knit stitch) until you are done. So....just cast one with your e-wrap and keep knitting until you run out of yarn (then you are done). Cast off loosely, weave in your threads and enjoy. The stripes shown in my scarves came from using varigated yarns - the black and white one was done by using a ball of white between two blacks.

These particular scarves were made for a charity project being sponsored by the Looming Angels. They were mailed to the Threads of Compassion group to be given to someone who needs a hug and to know that someone is thinking of them. So...if you have a special charity project in mind or just want to make a lovely simple scarf for yourself - grab some fun fur and loom.

Oh......and if you have Dollar Tree stores in your area - I found my LB fun fur for a $1 a ball there. I also found some at Big Lots - so check them out.

Have a wonderful week all....happy looming...

*GB2G*

May is here....

2007-05-10T10:31:00.000-04:00

Well.....April is gone and.... just like Min I am exhausted! It has been a very busy month for our household.
New puppies.......spring planting in the garden.....revivals at church......birthday parties......and our charity work - whew, it is hard on us old folks. But we have loved every minute of it!
New puppies...we have two litters left at the house, Min's three and Rosie's two - the rest have been sold so hopefully things will begin to quiet down on the doggie front.
Spring planting....we have most of the garden planted now. The tomatoes are looking pretty good, the squash, cucumbers and green beans are peeking through the warm earth so things are looking good!
We had an excellent speaker for our revival - outstanding services, what a blessing. Nephews and neices birthday parties were a blast - I love kiddie parties
And the charity - oh, how God has blessed TTT this past month - so many lovely donations. I washed, packaged and shipped some of the most beautiful little hats, sweaters, etc. Our totals were over 1,000 again this month - woo hoo He is good!
And speaking of charity work - if you are a loomer, love to knit without needles, and like to share your handiwork with others - Dusty has started a wonderful group called Looming Angels. Each quarter the mods choose a charity or two and the members loom knit items for that charity. It is new group but growing very quickly - and everyone in the group is just like family. So, if these ideas and thoughts touch your heart check out Dusty's group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LoomingAngels/
Lynn Markman of Markman Looms has come up with the most wonderful new loom - an adjustable 8" - just perfect to drop in your knitting bag, purse, pocket, etc. and take it along with you for those loom-on-the-go days. I have one and just love it!
Lynn is also doing the Newbie KAL - so if you are new to loom knitting and would love to have some tips, help, advice etc. check out Lynn's group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Markman_Looms/
Update on my projects.....I finished my MD knit bibs, they turned out very nice - I was quite pleased with them. I plan to package them with a stuffed animal and send them to the hospitals. I have some fleece blankets and lap robes cut out, ready to serge for the nursing home and I plan to finish those this week. I still have a sweater on the needles for the OB unit at Pine Ridge...I need to get that finished. Took one prayer shawl off the loom and need to start another one this week (unfortunately there has been several needs for prayer shawls in our community the past month). And I have one shawl for a friend on the needles - almost completed.
The yarn companies are coming out with the new Spring patterns and there are so many that I would like to try but I really do need to finish some of the WIP that I have now. But......one can always look and drool over the new patterns and yarns without purchasing them - Not! well, at least not me anyways - hee hee!
So....enjoy all - happy looming....lovely fibers....smooth spinning....and His Blessings,
*GB2G*
Happy Mother's Day to all the moms - may your day be extra special

2007-03-27T10:30:00.000-04:00

It's beginning to look like Spring around here..... birds are singing, the flowers are starting to bloom and believe it or not we have had some 82 degree days this past week. And.... I have Spring fever! I just love this time of the year - it is my favorite time, new beginnings, new life, new hopes - it is just awesome!
So with the warmer temperatures and lovely sunny days I just cannot concentrate on any intricate knit patterns - so it is time for "mindless knitting". Knitting just for the joy of it - knitting for the love of knitting - with no graphs, no pattern changes, no yarn changes - just lovely knitting. So I have dug through my stash - brought out some cotton yarn in lovely Spring colors and am making baby bibs this week. The pattern - you ask? - is none other than my favorite bib pattern of all time - the one from the Mason-Dixon Knitting Book http://www.amazon.com/Mason-Dixon-Knitting-Knitters-Patterns-Questions/sim/0307236056/2
So ... with my cotton yarn, my fav pattern and my trusty knitting needles I am cranking out baby bibs this week. And....enjoying every minute of it. I will post some yummy photos for you this weekend.
Amid my joys of the new week, I did have a sad thing happened - we lost our one and only LYS in our town. I was so disappointed to get my monthly newsletter from Melissa and to read that she was closing her shop the end of this month. I have so enjoyed Melissa's shop - it has been a haven for me. It was a special place that I could always go, just sit, and enjoy the fibers, friends, and shut out the cares of the world. I will really miss her shop and the luxury of local fibers. Please dear friends, support your LYS. I know that online shopping is so convenient (I do alot of e-shopping too) but the comfort of your personal yarn shops is just not there. And without our support the local yarn shops will cease to exist - like mine did . I miss you already Melissa - thanks for the memories!
Have a wonderful week all - be happy - remember happiness is a perfume that you can't pour on others without spilling some on yourself.
Fiber Hugs
*GB2G*

Spring is Coming

2007-03-11T10:26:00.000-04:00

Another month is here already! Wow - it seems that time is really going by quickly and Spring will be here soon
Daylight Savings time has begun so our days will be longer now - flowers are beginning to bloom in our yard .... what a wonderful time of the year.
February was my complete the WIP month and I made a very good dent in my stray projects that are laying in baskets in each room of the house. Many were finished, some were frogged, and I am still working on a few of them but it was a very sucessful endeavor.
I completed several sweaters, hat & bootie sets, and a few blankets for Our Special Angels. I will get those in the mail tomorrow. I also completed two knitted burial gowns for the NICU and have started on another one.
The past few months have been booming for TTT. I have stayed busy, answering requests, washing and packaging, shipping items, and purchasing supplies. It has been a busy month but a very blessed one for the TTT ministry. We are just starting into the third month of the year and already we have shipped over 2700 items. What a blessing.
I had Doggie OB duty this weekend as our little Daisy was ready to deliver. She finally had herl little one late Friday night - just one this time - a little black and white boy. Mama and baby are doing just fine.
Lynn's group "Markman Looms" is really busy - they have several challenges doing on for TTT, a loomed hat society, exchanges, and some wonderful classes. If you loom knit or would like to learn - this is a wonderful group of folks - please consider joining them.
Smiley's Yarns is having a super sale on LB Watercolors - 99 cents a ball! So if you need some or just can't resist a bargain (like me of course) checkout their website. I couldn't resist the watercolors....the cool w00l....the wiggles.....the LB cotton.....and so on.... Hey....I had to give some of my yarn to a TTT member this month....my yarn stash was sad
Well.....I know that this is a short update for such a long time from posting...however, I do still have some baby blankets that need sewing.....so I will end my saga here...
...live simply.....love generously...care deeply....speak kindly....and leave the rest to God.
Happy knitting all,
*GB2G

I am overwhelmed.....but...

2007-02-13T09:39:00.000-05:00

February has been deemed my "clear out WIP month." After searching for one of those hanks of yarn that "I just know that I have here somewhere" days I have come to the conclusion that I have entirely too many wips. So......February is complete my wip month. I have started clearing out baskets, checking beside, behind and on chairs, looking beside sofas and making it a mission to find all the projects that I have started but never completed.
Now that we have completed that task....and man do we have a bunch of them...we will begin to do a triage. We will separate them out into three groups: 1) a project that we definitely want to finish, 2) a project that I am not that crazy about..but if I have time I will complete, 3) the frog group.
The frog group is those projects that are destined to be frogged so the yarn that can be used for a another project. So, for whatever the reason...hate the project.....hate my stitches...just don't want to finish it..these projects will become balls of yarn - ready for a new day.
..... off to do some rip..rip..rip...ripping......

*GB2G*
.......have a cup of java and enjoy the sounds of the rain

Knitting News for the week

2006-11-19T17:58:00.000-05:00

Another week has passed....weather has turned cooler...my health is getting better each day....oh, so many blessings! What a joy! PTL

For this week's projects dear friends, I completed another pair of loomed mittens - mark one more gift off the Christmas List - I really like these. I used Lynn's Basic Mitten pattern, two strands of RH blue ombre yarn, and my ITA mitten looms. I prefer wool mittens, but since I know that the person that I knitted these for would rather have an acrylic easy wash & wear yarn I chose the RH. The double strands made these very warm and cozy. I am quite pleased with these.

Next on our gift list - the child sweater. I love the angled sides on this pattern - really cool. I needle knit this sweater in LB Boucle yarn Color - snow cone and used Fab Yarn's One piece sweater pattern. The picture is not very clear but it made a very cute sweater. Well..... mark another off the list.

I have almost finished my scarf for the National WWI museum "Knit your Bit" campaign. I will complete it this week and get it in the mail. And I still have several pairs of mittens to complete. So... back to the knitting.

Have a great week dear friends, stay warm, stay healthy, and keep on knitting!

*GB2G*

I am finally back

2006-11-12T21:33:00.000-05:00

After several weeks of fighting colds and then bronchitis....I am finally back. I have been gone for so long that I feel like a new blogger!

Well, here are my completed projects for the past few weeks.....

My loomed soap sacks. I used Markman's 20 peg fg loom, LB Incredible ribbon yarn and Lynn's pattern from the Markman group. These went to the church bazaar and were a big hit. Everyone just loved them - thanks for a great pattern Lynn!

Here we have loomed mittens - one adult pair and one child. These were loomed on the ITA Mitten looms using RH yarn. The pattern is called "Maggie's Mittens" and was posted to the Markman Loom group by one of Lynn's members. I love this pattern! It is a one piece mitten - the thumb is not a separate piece but is loomed as you go make the mitten. Great concept with very little sewing which I love.

And here we have a crocheted infant cardigan sweater. This is crocheted in Caron Simply Soft yarn using a very simple one piece sweater pattern from Bev's site. The little butterfly buttons add a cute touch to the sweater. And this is another pattern that requires almost no sewing :)

This is not a very good photo - sorry! But these simple tube socks were needle knitted using Wool of the Andes wool yarn. This is another of Bev's patterns and is a super simple pattern. I love the tube socks for charity giving as you do not have to worry about the heels being in the right spots and makes them more flexible for sizing. This is a wonderful two needle pattern that works up very quickly.

I have started some more mittens on my looms, another newborn sweater on my hook, and I have another sweater on my needles. On the wheel, I am spinning some wonderful jacob wool that I hope to finish in time to make a sweater for a Christmas gift.

I also have a scarf on my needles for the "Knit Your Bit" campaign. This is a wonderful program that the National WWII Musuem is doing. You knit a scarf for a WWII vet and send it to the museum. They will distribute the scarfs to the WWII vets during the holidays. They have the pattern and colors posted on their site as well as the address to send them to. It is a wonderful way to let these folks know that we appreciate what they did to preserve our freedom. Please check it out. http://www.nationalww2museum.org/education/knitting.html

Well...I guess that ends our knitting update for today ..... until next time, stay warm, stay safe, and happy knitting.
*GB2G*

Completed Projects & Surprises

2006-09-25T21:05:00.000-04:00

Check out this wonderful surprise from my loom knitting friend MJ - are these just not too cool? And what a wonderful surprise and in my favorite color - purple! Thank you so much MJ. I will think of you my dear friend each time that I use these wonderful stitch markers.

Here is my crocheted blue wool sweater for PR. I used 100% wool (Patrons) and an I hook. The pattern was the World's Easiest Sweater and you can find a copy of it at Bev's site. I love this pattern! It can be adapted from child to adult and is so super easy - crochet it all in one piece - and.....for those of us who hate sewing pieces together - you have only two seams to sew! Super! I have already started another one and am 50% done with it - this pattern goes really quick!

This is a scarf that I made for my Pine Ridge Elder that I sponsor. I used brown wool tweed, made a tube on my blue KK loom, then tied the ends off. It makes a very warm scarf but is very simple to make. I hope that he will enjoy it.

This is my Guidepost T Sweater. It is needle knitted with 100% Patrons wool. It is a very simple pattern and makes a really nice sweater. I made it for the A4A kids and hope to get it in the mail next week. They have extended the deadline for the 900 sweaters for Kids until the middle of October so I hope to be able to get several more made before the deadline ends. If you have some extra wool around (must be 100% wool for A4A) consider making a sweater to keep these A4A kids warm.

I guess you can tell that I am on a sweater binge right now - I am in love with making sweaters right now. I guess the Fall temperatures that have come around here now is bringing thoughts of cool evenings and a nice warm sweater. I love Fall!

Well, I think that rounds it all up for now ...... until later.....happy knitting!
*GB2G*

Completed Projects

2006-09-17T16:00:00.000-04:00

My Completed loomed dishcloth for my loom group exchange. I loomed it on a fine gauge loom with cotton yarn. I used a knitted pattern from R.White's site and converted it to the loom.

My prayer shawl that I did for my Aunt Grace. It was done on the LM beret loom using LB Homespun. I used a 1/1 stitch and skipped every third peg - makes a lacy shawl but a very soft and warm one.

I finished the Ez baby sweater but I am not pleased with it so I may rip it out again. I am still debating on that one.

I have started another prayer shawl for a friend that just lost her Dad. I hope to get it finished this week so I can get it into the mail this week.

We have had so many friends, family and friends of family in the hospitals the past two weeks that it has been a sad time. So many in need of prayer and I know that we all have family and friends in need of prayer so let us remember each other.

At the homefront.....we lost one of our chickens - the neighbor's cat decided that he wanted chicken for dinner so he helped himself to one of ours ;( I was so heartbroken when I came home and found that stray boy had gotten into the chicken pen and got our favorite rooster Rocky. So Hubby set to work with saw, nails and lumber and added an addition on to the chicken house. Now all of the chickens are in an enclosed house that is off the ground. Stray boy cannot get to them and the chickens are very happy and content.

We have two doggies expecting now. Daisy Mae is due to have her puppies on the 29th of this month and Minnie is due on October 4. The grandchildren will love coming to mawmaw's this Thanksgiving - they will have puppies to play with!

I had some wonderful items to deliver for TTT last month. Some of the most precious gowns, hats, booties and blankets. The nurses were so thrilled with the items for the little ones and just kept thanking me for bringing them. For all you TTT donors please know that your items are so appreciated and your special love is felt by all.

Have a wonderful week all.......may your blessings be too many to count......and your heart filled with peace!

Happy Knitting,
*GB2G*

Hi...it's me again

2006-08-13T02:29:00.000-04:00

Things have been really busy and I have not gotten around to updating my blog as I should.... but here I am... so I will fill you in on what has been taking place in my little corner of the world.

I will update you on the projects that I have been working on and also tell you about what I have completed! First....projects in the works...

On the needles...I am knitting squares for AC4C, 7" squares to be made into afghans for Ship Support. I have eight finished and hope to get a few more done this weekend and then I will put them in the mail to Dottie and Lisa.

On the looms....I have a prayer shawl started using LB Homespun, am working on converting a knit pattern of mine for a burial bunting from a needle pattern to the looms, and doing a dishcloth for G,(a group exchange project.)

On the hook.....I have my pattern and yarn and am getting ready to start a baby dress for a new great niece that will be here next month.

On my wheel....I am finishing up some pink roving, spinning it into worsted yarn, then I have some lovely Jacob wool that I plan to start on next.

And here are my completed projects....browse, enjoy, and have a great time!
*GB2G*

Loomed Mesh Bag

2006-08-13T02:20:00.000-04:00

On my completed projects, first we have....my loomed mesh bag. This one I did on my yellow KK loom using 100% cotton yarn. I used the pattern from the Spring Pattern Contest on Lynn's group - Markman Looms. This was a really fun pattern and makes a cute bag for grocery shopping, or maybe....oh, yes....a trip to the beach.

Doggie Treat Bag

2006-08-13T02:17:00.000-04:00

Here is my "Doggie Treat Bag". I loomed it with 100% wool yarn on my blue KK loom. I then felted it, added a rope handle and finished by needle felting a paw print on it for decoration. It was such fun! But don't forget to fill it up with doggie treaties! Now...I must make three more as we have four doggies and I don't want to leave anyone out.

Log Cabin Square

2006-08-13T02:13:00.000-04:00

Here is one of the knitted squares that I did for CFAC, it is the MD Log Cabin Square. This square is such fun to make and is a great way to use up all those little balls of yarn that we all have left over from other projects. A tip though for those who hate to weave in all those pesky yarn ends like I do......weave them in as you go, if not then you will be like me, finished with your square but have endless yarn ends to weave in ...ugggh! Fun - Not!

My CFAC Squares

2006-08-13T02:09:00.000-04:00

I finished my 18 x 18 squares for CFAC. I had pledged 20 squares in my looming group, Markman Looms. I had such fun with these, part of them are loomed, some knitted and the rest crocheted. It was a great way to use up all those scraps of yarn and to contribute to a wonderful group. They are in the mail now, winging their way to MJ .... soon to be part of a wonderful afghan.

Little Man

2006-08-13T02:03:00.000-04:00

Here is "little man", the last one of Rosie Rae's litter. He went to his new home last week in Norlina NC. He has a new loving home, and wonderful new parents so he will be very happy. He was such an adorable litte puppy and we do miss him but he is in a really good home.

Our homesteading is coming along

2006-07-16T22:28:00.000-04:00

Our next step in homesteading is now complete.

We now have chickens! Six lovely little chicks and they are so adorable.

And soon to be productive I hope - we need eggs from this little ones.

But for now they are just fun to watch, and feed, and water, and you know. But it is great.

Hubby did a wonderful job on the chicken house.

He built it from scratch (grin) no plans - just figured it out in his head and went to work.
It turned out just super.

And the new chicks are now inside and loving their new home.

And I am very proud of him - awesome job Hubby!

The puppy saga has continued. We sold our little chocolate lady this weekend. She went to a wonderful home and will be really loved there. We were so tickled to see Libby and Clarence get her as we know that she will be loved. We still have our two little apricot boys. They have discovered their barker this week so they have been trying it out at every opportunity. It is so cute to watch them bark at the older dogs - see what we can do now! But they soon tire and it is nap time for them. Is this not an angel?

I have been working on my panels for CFAC. I have completed four now and so I just have 16 more to go. I have not been able to work on them as often as I would like to as this week has been really busy but hopefully I can accomplish more next week.

I am still working on my loomed prayer shawl. I got a few more inches completed this week. So that is good progress.

I did complete my loomed gift bag. I used some homespun yarn and felted in it in the washer. But I was not too pleased with the felting. Usually my front load washer does well but this time the felting was not as tight as I like it. I believe next time I will felt it by hand.

I also got about 100 fleece blankets done for TTT. I am pleased with that accomplishment however I need to get 100 more done before the end of the month. We need about 200 to make the deliveries for this month. But I still have a couple of weeks to get them done in so it should go well.

Well, I guess that is my update for this week. Have a happy knitting week all!

*GB2G*

......by the way - is anyone else having trouble getting photos to load on blogger - it has been a headache trying to get these pictures loaded. :(

Two michief making boys

2006-07-09T18:29:00.000-04:00

Here are the curious puppies

2006-07-09T18:24:00.000-04:00

I don't think that charxxx is made just for oops but it is really a great toy.

Watch how it runs away when you try to catch it.

Oh dear, it is coming apart....what is that....I do
believe that I hear Mommy coming...

Better hurry and hide this.

Look what the mailman brought....

2006-07-08T19:06:00.001-04:00

I was doing my normal Saturday laundry duty when I heard a horn blowing out in the driveway. DH was in the kitchen and offered to get it for me and wow! He comes back in the house with a big box. "Present from Lynn for you" he says. Well, the laundry just had to wait...I wanted to open that box. I knew that my new looms were here!

And here are my goodies, my 30" ADJ rake, my teeny rake set, and some gorgeous Jacob wool. I just wanted to sit down and play - the laundry did not seem important at all, but since DH had no clean socks he begged to differ with me, so back to the laundry. But I will play with the toys later tonite Oh, and by the way, if you do not have a set of the Teeny rakes they are just great, not only for dishcloths, washcloths, afghan squares etc. but they make great swatch and gauge tools. Starting a new project....need to check your yarn, just choose a teeny rake and make a swatch - much better than frogging. Lynn has them in fine gauge and half gauge so grab a set for yourself. Her link is in my sidebar.

I finished my prayer shawl for the family of the plane crash victim. And I was running so late on it that I shipped it before taking a photo. Oh, well...it did turn out very lovely though, I used RH Light and Lofty in wine and loomed in on my beret loom from Lynn. I was very pleased with it. I have started another one, again on my Markman beret loom, this time using LB Homespun in Tudor. It is a lacy pattern one and I like the way that it is shaping up. Take a look....

I worked this week on washing, packaging and shipping items for TTT. Eight cases were delivered to the Charlotte hospitals and as always they were so thrilled to get them. DH and I took a few days off this week for some very needed R & R. We mostly stayed at home and played catch-up. We have gotten so far behind with our chores at home this was a good opportunity to try to get things back in order. But we did take a short trip to the mountains. We went to the Mast General Store, rode on the parkway enjoying the scenery and had lunch at Mel's Diner. I love that diner, it is decorated in the 50's theme and the food is just great. It was a wonderful trip and just the thing that we needed to refresh our spirits.

The puppies are growing like weeds, they are 6 weeks old now. Just about time for them to go to their new homes. They are really playful now....and very curious. Lots of fun to play with :0)

Have a happy knitting day
*GB2G*

2006-06-28T22:22:00.000-04:00

The puppies are really growing. Their eyes are open now and they are moving around - ready to play. They are 4.5 weeks old now and are such fun. They each have their own personality and it is always amazing to watch as they develop into special little dogs. I have to enjoy them while I can as it will soon be time for them to go to their new homes.

We were finally blessed with some super rain - 7.5 inches! Our lawn is starting to look green again and the garden is starting to grow again. It was just in time as it always is.

Mr. Arthur has been working overtime on my hands lately so my crafting has slowed down quite a bit. I can only work on my projects for a short time before my fingers ache so I am just doing very little handwork. But I have been reading and looking through some new craft books making a project list for when I am able to begin again. I think that I am going through withdrawal....ugh....it is always so hard to stop knitting when these attacks come.

The Markman Knitting without Needles group has been really busy. They have taken TTT as their charity group and have been making so many beautiful items for the babies. Here is a photo of just a few of the items that this special group has sent for TTT. Since January this group of special ladies have donated over 5,000 items to TTT. Thank you all for your generous gifts, because of you so many babies will be warm and cuddly. If you love looming or would just like to learn more about it, this is a very caring, sharing group. Please join us - there is a link to the group in my sidebar.

Happy knitting all....
*GB2G*

A quickie

2006-06-11T14:42:00.000-04:00

...this will be a quick update on the going-ons at the "B" estate. I have tried to do some updates several times but when I had a moment blogger was down. So, this will be a quickie as I have but a moment.

I have completed my loomed hats for Bible School which by the way starts tonite in less than 2 hours hence the quick update. I used some bright happy colors (kid colors) so I hope that they will be accepted well by the kids. Here are a few of them...

...now that project is completed I hope to start on my afghan panels for CFAC. Of course that will be next week as I am sure that with VBS time will be limited this week. But then again after working with the kids I may need some quiet time with the loom for me - LOL - I am not as young as I used to be.

I got my new 18 ADJ FG loom from Lynn this week and some delicious jacob wool. I am just itching to play with this new loom. But alas, that must wait for a little while. But I do have it sitting in my craft room so I can at least look at it.

The weather has been so dry here that everything is dying. Our grass is now a brown lawn and even though we are trying to water the garden it is not doing much better. The temperatures have been very hot for this time of the year here so the ac is working hard. But He knows best and it will work out.

Puppies are all doing well - growing and getting ready to open their eyes. I love it when their eyes open and they begin to explore. They are such fun at that stage. But DH says not to get attached to them - they will have to be sold. So, alas, we must spoil them very quickly and play with them all we can for the next 4 weeks.

Well, better run, almost time for church. Have a "knitty" good week and stay cool!
*GB2G*

Latest Updates

2006-06-05T21:17:00.000-04:00

Well, it has been a few days now so it is time to give you an update on the events in the "B" world.....

..On Sunday, May 29 Rosie's puppies met the real world. We now have three little ones in the "B" house - one chocolate little girl and two apricot little boys. Mom and babies are all doing well. They are all growing and eating like little pigs. Their eyes will open soon and when their hair gets a little longer they will begin to look more like toy poodles. Puppies are such fun!

...I finished my Cellphone/Ipod purse from Emmy's pattern. I loomed it on the blue kk loom and used woolease chunky. I am very pleased with the way it turned out. The woolease is a light tan and has streaks of dark brown wool in it so it gives it a rustic homespun look. I have not decided if I want to keep this one or if it will be a gift.

....I got my first spun yarn plyed, washed and dried. So here it is.....my very first yarn. I know for you experienced spinners it is not too good but to me it looks really great. I am still spinning my jacob wool and I have some more pink to ply with the jacob when I get it finished so there will be more to come but I just could not wait.

...My camera in it's infinite wisdom decided to eat several of my photo shots so I do not have a photo of the needle-knitted baby sweater and the burial gown that I loom knitted. uggggg.....I think Santa needs to add a new camera to my Christmas list.

...on the needles - I have a pair of slippers for ship support.

...on the looms - I am working on some hats for the kids in Vacation Bible School. We are using the A. Edge theme so I thought the hats would fit in really well. Then after VBS the kids will have the hats for later.

.....This Friday, June 10th is "knitting in public - show your sticks". So come on knitters let's show the world what wonderful people knitters are.

....folks, this ends today's broadcast so tune in next time for the exciting world of the "B" estate. Happy knitting!
*GB2G*

As the yarn unwinds

2006-05-15T09:56:00.000-04:00

...I have been very slow about updating the blog - but life has been full - many trials but also many, many blessings.

...The weekend was packed with sadness, a very good friend of DH passed away on Friday, so we spent time with the family - surprises, dd has changed jobs and will be moving this month, trials, our septic tank decided to back up on Mother's Day and flood the bathroom, but many blessings, the severe thunderstorms did not do any damage, there was a break in the storms so I could take my roses to Mom's grave, my oldest dd and her family came by, DH has the plumbers coming today and the healing process for our friend's family has started. Life often throws you a curve but after the storm there is a rainbow.

...On the Spinning front - I have completed three bobbins of my Jacob roving and started a bobbin of Cestari wool. This is a nightmare! I bought the bag of roving from a local shop and I am very disappointed in it. The wool is tightly compressed and even after predrafting it is difficult to work with. And there are little pills throughout the roving. I bought 8 oz of this stuff but I am just about ready to shuck it for spinning and use it to knit with.

...On the Looming front - I have completed another pair of slipper sox for the troops and started another pair. I am on a slipper kick right now - so this has been slipper month.

...On the Needle Knitting front - I just completed a baby sweater for the little one in the family - lovely Miss Hope Marie. I will post a photo for you at a later date. I have also been working on some dishcloths for a couple that is getting married at our church this month. And on my circulars I have a baby dress for a couple's new baby in the community.

...On the Crochet front - I have started another prayer shawl. I am using the pattern from the shawl ministry website (http://www.shawlministry.com/instructions.html). It makes a lovely shawl with homespun yarn - I am using a lavender blend and the spirit of it is very soothing.

...TTT has been very busy - lots of lovely items for the little ones have been made and sent. The loom group has been so wonderful - this group is a very sharing group. The hospitals are always so appreciative when we take the items. I know that the items are used as we see them on the little ones when we make deliveries. I would love to take some photos so we could put them in our scrapbook but I understand the hospital policies - and today you have to be so careful.

.....Well, that concludes our broadcast today dear knitters - stay tuned next week for further updates. Happy knitting all......

*GB2G*

Photos of Completed WIPs are here!

2006-04-24T22:48:00.000-04:00

..I finally got the batteries charged on my camera and had a few minutes to spare while some baby blankets were washing so I took a few shots of my completed projects. And ....here they are...

This is my fun fur trimmed KAL loomed purse from my KWON KAL class for April. I used LB 100% wool and LB Fun Fur.

This is my loomed eyeglass case from Loom Class. I added a hanging loop and a tassel to mine as I plan to use it as an accessory bag for spinning. I hung it on my spinning wheel and put my oil, springs etc. in it.

Here is my loomed KH tote bag. I used two colors of Patron's 100% wool, loomed it on Markman Farms square loom then felted it.

Completed Triangle KAL shawl for KN group. I used LH homespun for this one and knitted it on 13 needles.

...I think this completes my finished projects. I did do some fleece baby quilts but they have already been shipped to the hospitals so I did not get a photo of those. And I am working on another large tote bag on my ADJ loom and also some slipper sox for the troops in Iraq.

...I gave up on my EZ Surprise Sweater for right now - after frogging it out twice I decided that right now was not the time to work on that project. I have too many things going on, balancing too much on my plate to start on a new pattern - better stick with easy mindless stuff for me . I will pick that project back up this winter when I have the time to properly devote to it.

...A new KAL is starting this week at KWON - a mesh bag. I hope to complete one of those as it looks like a really fun project.

...Well, that all my "knitty news" for now - back to the laundry. Happy knitting all!
*GB2G*

Has anybody seen my head?

2006-04-19T15:27:00.000-04:00

...I know that I have lost it! Things have been so hectic lately - rushing here - running there - I feel as if I have definitely lost my head!

...Sorry I have been MIA lately - it is woods fire season here. With the dry conditions that we have had the fires have been raging. And since DH and me are both volunteer firefighters I bet you know where we have been - you got it! - in the woods fighting fires. Easter weekend was a really bad one. It started Friday and went through Sunday. Our department worked in shifts so none of us had to stay the entire time, but sometimes the shifts lasted through the night. The fire burned 430+ acres but God was good to us, no homes lost, no one injured, and all the firefighters returned home safely to their families. (just dirty and tired).
...We did get to come home by early Easter morning so we were able to spend Easter with the family. Our youngest daughter and her hubby could not come home but we did spend Easter with our oldest daughter and her family. In fact, she cooked Easter dinner for us - that was such a blessing (this year I was just too tired to cook.) We went to her house and spent the afternoon with her after church service. We had a wonderful time with her and the grandchildren.

....We are now puppy-less. We sold the last of Min's puppies this past Friday so they have all gone to their new homes. God sent us all good parents so our little darlings all went to very loving homes - so I was so thrilled.

...TTT is booming but I have really gotten behind on my shipments since I have been gone from home so much lately. I hope to get some washing and packaging done this week so I can get some of the lovely items that I have gotten shipped out.

...And now for fiber-related completed projects.....
------Needle Knitting - I finished my triangle shawl for the KAL - the one in blue LB homespun. It turned out very lovely and completed just in time as I have a shower coming up and this will be a perfect gift. (photo coming)
------Loom Knitting - I completed my loomed bag that I was working on using Lynn's square loom and Patron's wool. It has been felted and is ready to go to it's new home. (photo coming)
------ Loom Knitting KAL - I completed my April KAL - Kay's Felted Bag - I used LB Fun Fur and LB Wool. It turned out very pretty. I am quite pleased with it, even though I am not really fond of fun fur. (photo coming)
------Spinning - I have finished one bobbin of my Jacob wool and have started on my second bobbin. Unfortunately I have not had much time to devote to my spinning lately but I hope that things have settled down some so that I can spend more time at my wheel. (photo coming)

....For my fiber projects WIPs...
------Needle Knitting - I have started on EZ's Baby Surprise Sweater. I am using some varigated baby yarn and I love the color combination. I have frogged it once already as it did not suit me so I am on my second try at it. I have completed 29 of the 114 rows so we will see how it goes.
------Loom Knitting - I am ready to start on the Mesh Bag project using cotton yarn. I have my supplies and am awaiting the instructions :) I am also working on some slipper sox for Christmas gifts.
------Spinning - working on my second bobbin of Jacob wool - and loving every minute of it!

Well, I think that brings us up-to-date with the daily ramblings of a fiber-addict:)
Have a happy Knitty day all,
*GB2G*

We got yarn...

2006-03-26T22:13:00.000-05:00

Now I know for you experienced spinners this is not much and is definitely not the best yarn but... for a beginner spinner this is real excitement! I have had my spinning wheel for over a year now and have worked with it off and on trying to learn to spin. I could not find anyone in our area who knew how to spin that could help me. So I bought books...read the web....bought a dvd...read more books and still accomplished only one thing..frustration! Then a wonderful lady in one of my knitting groups offered to help me - PTL! We met at a local library and after a few hours with her it all came together for me. I have a long way to go but at least I am now spinning what actually does look like yarn and I am so excited and happy! Thank you June for all your help and encouragement - I could never have done it with you.
*GB2B*

..just not enough time

2006-03-25T18:54:00.000-05:00

I have so many wonderful projects on my to do list and just not enough time to do them all. I would love to be able to craft all the time but it is just not to be. So I enjoy the time that I have to work with them.
I had a wonderful day today - it was Spinning Day! I met with my friend June and she helped me with my spinning. I have had my spinning wheel for sometime but have not been able to get the knack of the spinning process. But June was such a wonderful teacher and by the time that we ended our visit I was actually spinning yarn that was good. I was so thrilled - now I must practice...practice...and practice some more. I really want to do this as I have already developed such a love for it.

I finished two pair of slipper sox this week. I used Lynn's fg 30 peg round loom and some wool blend yarns. I did one with a gathered toe and the other is just a square toe using the flat removal. I am pleased with them and will put them aside for an upcoming gift.

This is my tote bag that I am currently working on. I am using Patrons Classic Wool and Lynn's 80 peg fg square loom. I plan to felt this bag after I complete the knitting. I did a simple stripe using some scrap wool that I had, it gave a nice accent and broke up the plain look of the solid color.

AC Moore had a good sale on Patron Wool yarn this weekend - $3.44 a ball, which for our area is an excellent price. So I naturally had to stock up on it:) Not that I really needed any more yarn but I could not pass up a good price on wool yarn. And I really do not have that much wool yarn in my stash. And I plan to do some felted bags for Christmas gifts this year. And....one never has too much yarn :) Just like looms....my wish list was shortened by one this week as I ordered a fg adjustable loom. Hey - I really needed that loom - LOL

Well....back to my bag....happy knitting
*GB2G*

TGIF....long week

2006-03-17T23:46:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness it is Friday! It has been a long, hard week. We have been covered up at work this week so the stress was really thick. Then I had meetings three nights this week - not much time for looming or resting! I did take some quick time-outs to work on some of my looming projects. Hey..a person got to de-stress :)

There was a wonderful bright spot in my week - my looms came from Lynn! Here they are - are they not just super!

I got two of her new looms, the beret set and the square fg loom. And some of Lynn's delicious yarn..,oooh...it is so cuddly. This will be for me - new mittens! Won't this just make a beautiful pair? I also got Denise's book, such a thrill to have one of our group published! Check out Lynn's site - a link is listed on my sidebar.

I know this is short but I am bushed ... I'll do better next time.
Happy knitting.....*GB2B*

Very sorry....

2006-03-11T14:03:00.000-05:00

....so sorry for those who have been trying to access my blog today. I have had a terrible time trying to get all my buttons put back on the blog. It seems that the image host I was using decided to shut down their website...and did they email anyone?....No!
So, needless to say I had to reload all my images onto a new image host site and then correct my blog template to get my images back. But anyway....they are all here again....sorry for the raving and the downtime.

Happy Knitting all - *GB2G*

And now to the knitting...

2006-03-11T12:36:00.000-05:00

....I promised a photo of the drop stitch loomed stole that I did and here it is. It is not blocked in this photo but you can see the stitch detail and what the stole looks like. It is on the blocking board now so it will be completed and ready for wrapping soon.

And Here is my BH bag....

(Here is my bag before felting)

I used the BH pattern from http://www.masondixonknitting.com/ and did some modifications on my bag.
Yarn - Patrons Classic Wool (That's Red) Needles - 11 Circular
I used two strands of yarn throughout the pattern.
**At the Knit Straight Row (where you lengthen or shorten the bag) I did 30 rounds instead of the 10 rounds in the pattern. I wanted a taller bag rather than a short one. At end of the pattern after doing buttonhole handle, I knitted 4 rounds before binding off to give a thicker handle.
Felting - One time through the washer and then stuffed for shaping and let air dry.

This photo is my completed bag after felting.
For reference, before felting my bag was 13" Wide and 15" Tall.
After felting my bag was 9" Wide and 11" Tall

****As for accents, I am still thinking on that one.
*GB2G*

And this is my space...

2006-03-11T12:32:00.000-05:00

....my favorite part of the house - LOL. Actually this is only one wall of my sewing/knitting/home office area but it is a favorite spot for me. I know that the organization does not look too good, but......actually I know where everything is, that is I do if....no one moves it - LOL

What kind of knitting needle are you? I am....

2006-03-11T08:42:00.000-05:00

You are interchangeable.
Fun, free, and into everything, you've got every

eventuality covered and every opportunity

just has to be taken. Every fiber is

wonderful, and every day is a new beginning.

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Projects Update

2006-03-06T11:05:00.000-05:00

I have finished my felted tote bag - see below, my drop stitch shawl - photos coming soon....I have started on some wool slippers on my loom, I have a burial gown on my needles, and some fleece blankets cut out for TTT.

Crafting is moving on ....have a great day! *GB2G*

My Birthday Hooks

2006-03-06T11:02:00.000-05:00

Aren't these adorable? For my birthday Hubby got me two handcrafted crochet hooks from Dodo Designs in Canada. The first one is Mickey Mouse (my hero) and the other one is a cute doggie! I cannot wait to use them!

My First Felted Tote Bag

2006-03-06T10:54:00.000-05:00

...is finished! This is the first felted item that I have made and I am so excited about it! I needle knitted the bag from KP "wool of the andes" and then loomed my handle with my thumb looms.

...here is a photo of the bag before felting - it was 18 x 20 before the felting process and my finished bag was 14 x 15. Perfect for my looming items - a great knitting tote!

OT - The Puppies

2006-03-06T10:32:00.000-05:00

.....are here and they are adorable! We have three boys and two girls. They are all black and some of them have little bits of white on them. Their eyes are not open yet but will be soon. I thought I would just share a photo of them with you.

Olympic Knitting Project Finished!

2006-02-19T16:08:00.000-05:00

Since I had "Doggie OB" Duty this weekend (our toy poodle Minnie was expecting) I had plenty of time to loom knit. And two wonderful projects were completed - my poncho for the Olympic Knitting was finished - and Minnie had her puppies (5 darlings). What a very wonderful weekend! I think that I will start a prayer shawl - I know that I cannot complete it before the flame goes out but I can start on it. I hope that everyone's projects are going well - good luck to all!
*GB2G*

My first Mittens Finished

2006-02-19T16:02:00.000-05:00

I have completed my first set of loomed mittens! The pattern was created by Lynn our list mom with KWON and it was very easy to follow. You can find it in our group files - the link to the KWON group is in the sidebar. I will definitely make some more of these - I know that Pine Ridge would love them.

Olympic Knitting Update

2006-02-16T19:05:00.000-05:00

...My progress was slowed after having to frog eight rows..uuuggg...I must have been half asleep the other night when I was working on this. I know better than to try to do my projects when I am tired. But anyway....I am back on progress and moving along. How is everyone else doing?
...happy knitting all...
*GB2G*

Surprises in the mail...

2006-02-16T18:56:00.000-05:00

I love surprises! Today I got my Valentine Exchange gift from my KWON looming sister Sherrie and it was so great. The soap sack and cloth is just too pretty to use, I think that I will use it as decoration in my bathroom. And she sent a lovely bookmark, a calendar and a super little notebook that has already found it's way into my knitting bag. Thanks so much Sherrie!

Olympic Knitting Progress

2006-02-14T21:36:00.000-05:00

The second panel of my poncho is coming along great. I am thinking that I may do another one of these as I could use them for many of my charities. But here is the photo that I promised - excuse the bad photographer :)
Happy Valentine's Day all,
*GB2G*

Olympic Knitting Update

2006-02-14T09:13:00.000-05:00

My poncho is going very well. I am so tickled with Isela's pattern - it is great! Thanks Isela! I am doing her Nyah's Poncho using LB Jiffy in Fisherman and it is turning out very pretty. I have completed one panel and have started on my second panel. I will post a photo tonight - I went to get the camera to take my photo and the batteries are dead :( ...So...I am patiently waiting for the batteries to charge - well maybe not patiently :) ...but waiting - and while I wait I will continue to knit.

I hope that everyone is having good luck with their knitting projects - and to all a very Happy Valentine's Day.
*GB2G*

KWON Valentine Exchange

2006-02-11T09:13:00.000-05:00

Lynn's KWON group did a Valentine Exchange headed up by Penny. We each signed up and then Penny chose loom partners for us all. We were to make a soap sack for our loom partner and send it to them for Valentine's Day. I did my soap sack in yellow cotton and then trimmed it out with a blue heart and edging. I included a pink rose washcloth and a knitting journal. I sent it out Monday but I did not want to post it to my blog too soon and ruin the surprise for my loom friend. So here it is....

I started my poncho for the Knitting Olympics last night and I am so excited as it really looks pretty good. This is the first piece of clothing that I have done on the looms, well, the first piece that I plan to finish. I started a poncho for me but never finished it and have started a prayer shawl but did not finish it either. The long projects seem to be hard for me so I thought that the Olympics would be a good way for me to spur myself to finish a project this time. I will post photos of my progress later.
Back to the housework....
*GB2G*

It's time for the Olympics!

2006-02-10T12:23:00.000-05:00

Today the Olympics start and Isela and Denise have made a fun project for loom knitters. They have created the 2006 Loom Knitters Olympics. We are each choosing a project to loom starting today and finishing by the end of the Winter Olympics. The rules and guidelines are all the same as the Knitting Olympics started by Yarn Harlot. But this gives us loom knitters as chance to join in the fun. What a wonderful idea - ladies, thanks so much for organizing this for us "loomies."
I have chosen for my project Isela's "Nyah Poncho". I am using LB Jiffy yarn in Fisherman. I have my yarn, loom and pick standing ready - all I need is the lighting of the torch. Good luck to all the Olympic loomers - everyone will do just super.
*GB2B*

So many fun projects...so little time

2006-02-08T20:38:00.000-05:00

This month has started off with a bang as so many of my groups are doing such fun things. And of course, one always wants to do them all...so many fun projects...so little time.
Isela's DA yahoo group is doing a monthly mystery project. We get a few rows of the pattern at a time and by the end of the month we have our project completed. Here is mine after 3 days of pattern notes.

On my KWON group we are doing a mitten KAL this month. What fun! I have always wanted to do mittens but have not gotten up the nerve. Here is my first completed mitten. Maybe not as good as could be but I am so proud!

And on the yahoo group "Knitting Novices" we are doing a triangle shawl KAL. I changed the pattern on mine just a little reversing the first two stitches of the rows as the homespun that I am using did not look as pretty doing the yo as the first stitch. I am almost done with it - on my last skein of yarn and I love the blue color.

I am still working on my other projects too; hats for Ship Support, burial gowns for TTT and some scarves for the homeless. So many wonderful fiber projects - it is such a shame that I have to work to support my "yarn habit" - it really cuts into my crafting time :)
...so many projects....so little time...but what fun!
*GB2G*

...I am so behind

2006-01-30T23:40:00.000-05:00

I am so behind...we were blessed to have been chosen randomly by the NC Dept. of Revenue for a sales tax audit at work - what an experience! I have spent every moment working those auditors and my workdays have totally exhausted me so my crafts and my life have been put on hold. But finally they have returned to their offices and my life can now go back to normal (or as normal as it gets for me! LOL)

I did get to finish my scarf though, in my spare moments, which I am very pleased with it. I think that my looming was the only thing that kept me sane through this ordeal.

And I got the most wonderful gift in the mail from Lynn (our list mom for KWON) my prize from the anniversary party. A new loom, pick and some of Lynn's wonderful bee balm! This was just the positive uplift that I needed during this "hair-pulling" tax adventure. The loom is a new one that Lynn has come out with - a fine gauge teeny loom! It is so super! Just the right size to fit in your purse so you can carry your looming with you and makes a wonderful 6" wide piece - just perfect for scarves, squares and panels for an afghan.

And of course I could not let this poor little loom sit alone, by itself, with no one paying it any attention..so...I had to try it out and give it some love. So I took some yarn from my stash and began a lovely blue scarf. I think that I will keep this scarf for myself - a reminder of how important friends are and how they can always make you smile when you need one :)
I have completed the final totals for TTT for 2005 and the group delivered almost 7,000 items to the hospitals for the "little ones". This was a record year for us and what a wonderful statement it was. In this world where the news daily pounds us with all the negative things that occur each day, I have been blessed to see the loving, sharing positive side of people that is still present today. Yes Virgina, there are still folks who will give to others whom they do not know expecting nothing in return, but only hoping to comfort someone who is need. I thank God each day that He has allowed me to have these special people in my life.
....hoping you will have a blessed week,
*GB2G*

..and the yarn goes on

2006-01-08T19:57:00.000-05:00

...I have started a new scarf on my scarf loom. I am using a worsted and a novelty yarn and it is coming out very well. I love the color and texture variations and it gives the scarf some extra interest. Here is the work in progress.
...I am working on my soap sack for our KWON Valentine exchange. I am using some yellow cotton yarn and I think that it will turn out very pretty. I love yellow - it is such a happy color. I will post photos of it when I finish it.
...I had planned to do several projects this weekend but I have been blessed with the cold and cough bug that is going around and I have not felt like doing much. I came home from work and went to bed on Friday. I did a few things around the house yesterday but not much - no energy. Today was much better and I went to church services today. So hopefully I am on the mend now. Everyone that has had this said it generally takes two weeks to get rid of it and since I have one week down I am half-way - yeah!
...Our KWON group had their first year Anniversary this week. We have over 550 members in the group and it is just like a family. It has been a wonderful year as we have learned, shared, and made friendships over our looming projects. Congratulations Lynn for such a great group and thanks for giving us the opportunity to share our love of looming with others. If you love looming, or would like to get involved with this wonderful craft - join us. A link for our group is on the left side of my blog.
...Have a wonderful week all! Happy Looming!
*GB2G*

Happy New Year!

2006-01-01T21:05:00.000-05:00

...A new year is here ... a fresh year open for new opportunities...and blessings to be revealed. I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that 2006 will be a very special one for you all.
...I have been on vacation since the 23rd of December so I have been loving this time off. We closed the office so the employees could spend time with their families but the vacation is almost over - we go back to work on Tuesday. But that is okay as I have been able to get a bunch of things done at home that was very needed. I got my sewing room back in order, went yarn shopping (like I needed more), spent time with the family and did some much needed housecleaning.
...Our KWON group is doing a Loom Decoration contest and the time off gave me a chance to get my chosen loom decorated. I used one of Lynn's adjustable looms and fixed up "happy and cheerful." I love Lynn's looms, they are just wonderful. They are wooden, handmade, super quality, and you cannot beat the price. If you get one, just like potato chips, you will never be able to stop yourself. I am ashamed to say how many I have hanging on my sewing room wall but they are all needed :) And she is coming out with some new ones soon....oh, I do hear them calling my name. She has just redone her website and you can order them online now so be sure to check them out. http://www.markmanfarm.com/
...and here is my loom. The photo does not show it very well, but it is bright pick with purple pegs. It has Mickey and Minnie decals along with hearts. The verse reads...Happiness is sharing...giving is a joy...and Love is a blessing.
I had such fun doing the loom, and I plan to maybe do another one. Thanks Lynn for such a wonderful idea!
...Blessings all
*GB2G*

My Looming Friends Tree

2005-12-23T18:53:00.000-05:00

...Here is my wonderful Looming Friends Tree. The ornaments are from my friends in the KWON group. We all made mini loomed hats and sent them to each other for Christmas. I have mini hats from Canada to Australia - from CA to NC - now is that not neat! The Christmas cards under the tree are from my looming friends too and the tree skirt is a wonderful tea towel that my looming friend Jane sent me from Australia - thank you so much Jane! I put my tree in my sewing room and have so enjoyed looking at it. In fact, I have loved it so much I may not take it down. :)
...I finished my 7th prayer shawl and I was glad that I got it completed as it was needed. A family member of a co-worker of hubby lost everything in a house fire. There were three children, two less than 2 yrs old and one 4 yr. old. Everything they had was lost - it was so sad. I have been a firefighter for almost 20 years and it still breaks my heart to see families lose their homes. Most things can be replaced but cherished items like photos, baby shoes, etc. are precious and priceless. Please remember this family in your prayers.
...I wish for you all a very blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
*GB2G*

Odds, and Ends

2005-12-16T17:44:00.000-05:00

...I am finishing up the odds and ends for the holiday. We did not put out too many decorations this year as with the little puppies it would be a bad idea. We did put up three small tabletop trees but they had to be put up really high so the little ones could not reach them. I finished all my soap sacks, the blankies for the grandkids, two scarfs for the daughters and some doggie blankets for friends with furry babies. A few more presents to wrap and some holiday baking and I will be ready for Santa.
...Deliveries have been made to the hospitals for TTT and the nurses were overwhelmed. They had such fun picking out hats, blankies etc. for their special patients - it was such a joy to watch them. The KWON group sent 3,596 items for the little ones! Is that not a wonderful thing! This group is such a loving and sharing group and have been such a blessing to me this year. I cannot thank you ladies enough. TTT had a record year thanks to you all. The final totals are not in yet but as soon as I get them tallied I will post them for you.
...Blessings all!
*GB2G*

Winter Has Arrived

2005-12-09T19:34:00.000-05:00

...Well, Winter has arrived with the cold temperatures, winds and ice...more ice...and more ice! I do not dread the snow too bad but the ice is not a welcome sight. We have had several days of flickering power (but thanks goodness our did not go out as many did), slick roads and dreary days. Oh, Spring where are you?
...The KWON group has been really busy making hats, blankets, and booties for TTT. These ladies are so wonderful. It has kept me busy just sorting and packaging but what a blessing! Ladies I love you all. Here is some of their wonderful items.

...Are they not just lovely? The babies will be so cute.
...Progress is being made slowly on the Christmas WIP items but I am getting there. I have finished my KWON exchange hats and hope to get them in the mail soon. I have already starting receiving some. When I get my tree done I will post a photo for you.
...Well off to finish some laundry.
Blessings! *GB2G*

Too Many WIPS

2005-11-18T20:22:00.000-05:00

...This month is now half over and Christmas is moving up fast and my WIP pile is not going down much. I still have several Christmas gifts to make and even more packages that need wrapping.
I am making loomed washcloths for my family members. They are such fun! I wrapping the cloths around a bar of homemade soap (not made by me - time is too short) but they are turning out pretty great.

...Our KWON group is having a mini loomed hats exchange. We are looming tiny hats for tree ornaments and then sending them to each other for Christmas. I have almost finished my hats and am looking forward to exchanging. What fun!
...I did my knitted hats finished for the soldiers and sent off to Ellen this month. This was our last shipment for this year since it takes so long for the items to get to the guys and gals over there. We sent tiny handmade Christmas ornaments too so they would have something for the holidays. I am so proud of everyone that is serving over there and hold them in my prayers - as well as their families that will have to celebrate this Christmas without them. God bless them all!
...I have the blankets cut out for the grandkids. I am making each one of them a fleece blanket and then embroidering their initials and some little pictures on them. They all love to wrap up in a blankie to watch tv so I thought they would enjoy these.
...Have a happy Thanksgiving all and blessings!
*GB2G*

New Month Has Arrived

2005-11-02T20:39:00.000-05:00

Well, another month has passed and we are that much closer to Christmas. Boy, I really need to get started on my Christmas presents or I will be knitting on Christmas eve.
I did get alot accomplished this month though, I finished my blankets and hats and got the TTT shipment to the hositals. I mailed a package to Cpt. Heath for the Iraq babies and mailed my package to Ellen for Ship Support. I just finished the crochet cloche hats for the church bazaar and they turned out very nice.

I started on my Christmas Loomed Mini hats for the KWON hat swap and did this week's mystery crochet pattern for my crochet group. Now that I have those completed I can finish up my November Ship Support items and I can do something for myself.
I bought this delicious wool at my LYS and I am going to make myself a felted hat. I think that I will use the pattern from Knitpicks as I really love the way it looks and I have seen several hats made with that pattern.

I will post a photo when I get it completed. My market bag is still in progress along with a loomed prayer shawl and a prayer shawl on the needles. So many WIP...so little time. Oh, life is just like yarn - it continues to unravel. :)
Have a great week all - Happy Knitting :)
*GB2B*

Really Late..

2005-10-20T22:36:00.000-04:00

..I am really late posting and I apologize for that but my computer has not been very cooperative. First we got a bug or something and then my blog did not work right. So...I have been battling the hi-tech world. I finally got my blog back but I did lose some posts but that is okay but I still cannot get my Knitting Loom Circle image to load. But the link does work so if anyone has any ideas on loading this image I would greatly appreciate it.
...Well, on to knitting topics, the A4A met their goal! They ended up with 5,860 items to send to the children which is really wonderful. There will be some very warm kids thanks to a lot of caring knitters and crocheters.
...I finished my loomed camo hat for grandson # 1. It turned out very well and I think that he will be pleased. He is wanting to be GI Joe for Halloween so a military beanie was essential.
..I also finished my "pumpkin" slippers from our last KAL at KWON. I think they are rather cute and granddaughter #1 will love them. We have started another slipper KAL in the group - these will be adult slippers. Maybe it is time for a pair for grandma :)
...Speaking of KWON these ladies have been really busy. I have received so many beautiful items for the TTT babies from this group. They are just super. The group's contributions total over 1300 - outstanding! So many babies will be warmer because of the warm hearts of this group. I cannot thank you all enough.
..I got a wonderful pattern for needle knitted slippers from a friend on another group and I have been working on those for Ship Support. I have been making hats for some time and a change is nice. And the emails that Ellen gets from the guys are so great. They are all so appreciative - for the knitted items but just as much for the support from back home. If you have time to make a few items for the guys and gals who are so far away from home fighting for the freedom that we enjoy please do so. They are giving up their time at home with their families, enduring a lot and some are giving their lives for us - a small bit of yarn and time seems too little in return. However, the moral support that those items provide is priceless.
...WIP - prayer shawl (bless its heart) is still on the rake - large projects are just difficult for me to complete. But I do stop and do a few rows when I can. A pair of slippers on the needles, a hat on the needles, and some dishcloths for dad's church fall bazaar.
...For those who are being threatened by Wilma - my prayers and thoughts are with you. God Bless and stay safe.
...Happy knitting all
*GB2G*

Charity Shipments have all gone out

2005-09-19T13:10:00.000-04:00

My charity shipments have all been completed and sent or delivered. My hats went out to A4A, my Online Angels items were shipped and the TTT deliveries have been made to the hospitals. It was a heavy month but I feel really good about it. Now to begin on the new projects. I have my 100 hat goal for TTT and I want to start on my Christmas gifts since I know that if I do not start now they will never be ready for Christmas.
DH and I have been bitten by the yuck bug that is going around so we have not been up to par the last few days. Going to work has been about the extent of what we can manage and we fight over the couch when we get home. DH has had the worse case and cannot get very far from the Kleenex box, poor dear. But hopefully we are on the mend now and things will return to normal again.
My heart goes out to those on the gulf coast as the news of more hurricanes is being forecasted. Dear people know that you are in the prayers of many. And everyone please continue to remember the Katrina families they will need prayers and help for some time to come.
Have a great week and and happy knitting!
"Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For indeed, that's all who ever have." - Margaret Mead
*GB2G*

100 Hats Finished

2005-09-04T19:17:00.000-04:00

Due to my work schedule I was running a little behind but I did get my 100 hats for TTT finished for this month. They were all washed and packaged for the delivery this weekend. Thanks to the members of KWON we had a very good delivery this month - thanks so much ladies!
I sewed some of the hats, knitted some, loomed some and crocheted the rest. My crochet pattern is a quickie and is very simple. If you need a simple, fast pattern you are welcome to use mine. Please consider making one for a charity.

Teresa’s 10 Minute Preemie Hat
Materials:
G Hook
Worsted Weight Yarn
**I have timed this pattern and it actually only takes me 10 minutes to make a hat. How simple can you get :)
This hat is worked in the round – do not turn after each row.

Ch 3
Rnd 1: 12 dc in 3rd chain from the hook, join with a sl st to beginning ch 3.
Rnd 2: Ch 2, dc in same stitch as ch 2, 2 dc in each stitch around, join with sl st to beginning ch 2.
Rnd 3: Ch 2, dc in each dc around, join with sl st to beginning ch 2.
Rnd 4-7: Repeat row 3.
Rnd 8: Ch 1, sl st in each dc around, join with sl st to beginning ch 1, fasten off. Weave in ends.

Rnd 8 Variations:
· Ch 1, reverse sc around, join & fasten off.
· Ch 1, sc around, join & fasten off.
· Ch 1, sc, *ch 1, sc*, repeat * around, join & fasten off.

This is an excellent pattern to use up scraps - just make each row a different color, or make hat one color and Rnd 8 a different color. Just be creative!

©Teresa Bowman – 2004
You may use or share this pattern for charity purposes only. Not to be used for items that will be sold.
This makes a hat to fit 3-5 lb. preemie babies, if you need a smaller hat, change your yarn to sport or baby yarn and use a F hook.

Speaking of charity, please consider a donation to the Salvation Army or American Red Cross to help the families that have been affected by Hurricane Katrina. And remember them in your prayers, they will need emotional support as well for the times ahead.

Update on A4A: The deadline for the winter items for the children has been extended so if you were considering making an item but the time was too short - please reconsider.

Knitting Tip:
Doing stockinete stitch with straight needles - need to keep up with your knit and purl rows? Just put a stitch marker or scrap of different color yarn on your needle before beginning the purl row, your marked needle will always indicate when you should be doing the purl row.

Happy Knitting!
*GB2G*

knitting along...

2005-08-23T12:44:00.000-04:00

- I am still knitting along on my hats for A4A - finished one more and started on another one. Things have been really hectic at work lately and the hours have been longer than usual so I have not had as much knit-time as I would like but that's life. I have been carrying my hats in my bag and doing a stitch whenever I have a spare moment during the day. The need is so great and I want to try to get as many done as I can for the children. If you have not decided to do one - let me tear at your heartstrings with some kid-bits:
"...A4A's campaign for 5000 children is only a drop in the bucket. In Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, 3 orphanages alone house and support over 15,000 children. There are also orphanages in other parts of the country, too. There are *tens of thousands* of kids in these orphanages or on the streets. All ages -- babies to teens. The International Orphan Care web site reports over 700,000 orphans
in Afghanistan. A4A is only trying to clothe and warm a small number of 5000 in the big picture...."
Can you imagine - 700,000 orphans! So many cold, hungry children.
Ok - off the soapbox - but this is a project that is very dear to my heart.

- DD called yesterday and needed some preemie sets for a friend of SIL. Their GD was born premature and weighed in at 2 lbs. 4 oz. I gathered together some hats, booties, sweaters, blankets and a stuffed animal for the precious one and sent it off to DD via UPS. Remember this little one and her family in your prayers - I know that they will appreciate it so much.

- Got a few more inches done on the loomed prayer shawl this weekend. I have not had too much time to work on it so progress is slow. But it will come about.

- Got my new catalog from Knitpicks yesterday - ooh.....at some of the new colors for Fall. If you did not get a catalog check them out online at: www.knitpicks.com. But beware, it is really hard to look and not buy :)

- Well I will leave you with a pattern tip that I have used for years. It has saved me many hours and alot of stress:
Pattern Tip: When copying or printing a pattern for later use that calls for a "specific yarn", always make a note with the yarn info (needle size, gauge, etc.) at the bottom of the pattern. This will make choosing a substitute yarn much simpler when you decide to use the pattern and find that the yarn called for has been discontinued."

Enjoy - and Happy Knitting all :)
*GB2G*

Hats! We need more hats!

2005-08-21T21:55:00.000-04:00

A4A is in need of hats, socks, mittens and sweaters for the children of Afghanistan. They have set a goal of 5,000 and they are running very behind on their donations. They need help to meet that goal - come on, knitters let's join together and knit for the kids. Here is their plea:
".....For the upcoming winter, we especially need newly hand-knit and crocheted WOOL hats, mittens, socks, sweaters, and vests in sizes for children of all ages.
Please use 100% wool or mostly wool for these garments to provide maximum utility in harsh weather. (Acrylic garments will not be sent to Afghanistan.) Your gifts are needed by September 16 to ensure that our warm gifts arrive before the cold. Our goal is to clothe 5,000 girls and boys. If you have thought about participating, now in the time."
So..This weekend I have been working on wool hats for the kids. It is a wonderful project so if you have some spare time and some wool please consider this project. I have been using my super simple garter hat - it works up really quick and make a warm cozy hat for a little child. Bobby Bear is shown here modeling my latest hat made with Knitpicks WOTA yarn in Winter Night Blue. My pattern uses takes one (1) 110 yd. skein of wool but if you have some scraps it is lovely in different colors. Please help A4A keep these little children warm. All the information that you need concerning the project is on their website: http://www.afghansforafghans.org/.
If you would like to use my pattern - please feel free (only for charity purposes, please). It is a wonderful take-a-long pattern - no row counting - no stitch changes - just cast-on and knit. So get out that wool yarn, cast-on, and go. Short on time - drop it in your bag and do a few stitches on break at work, while watching TV, waiting at the doctor's office, at your child's ballgame - let's join together and keep a child warm this winter.

Super Easy Child's Hat
No. 8 straight Knitting Needles
110 yds. 100% wool yarn (I used Knitpicks Wool of the Andes)

Cast on 50 stitches.
Row 1: Knit
Repeat row 1 until rectangle measures 8.5 inches long.
Cut yarn leaving a tail 14-15 inches long. Remove from needles using gathering method. When you have gathered the top do not cut yarn, make a knot to hold top gathering then use yarn to sew side seam. Cut yarn, weave in ends, roll up brim and voila! Hat finished!
If you prefer not to sew side seam, then use circular needles.
....A perfect beginner hat, or an easy, no concentration project for the experienced knitter. It works up very quickly and will be so appreciated by the children.
...Well back to my hats - happy knitting all :)
*GB2G*

Toes and Pies

2005-08-15T13:32:00.000-04:00

Well, the rest yesterday really helped - a lot of the swelling has gone down in the toe but it is really black and blue. I did however, find an old pair of stretched out sandals that I could get my foot in so off to work I went! I tried to really stay off my foot as much as I could and since I have a desk job that helped a bunch. I got quite a bit of knitting done on the market bag that I want to felt for DD for Christmas so my day of rest was not a total wash although I missed getting to go to Church.
My youngest DD requested a copy of the recipes for the two rhubarb pies that I used to make when she was little. I guess she has a taste for rhubarb today so I thought that some of you might like to have them too. So here goes..

Rhubarb Crisp

2 cups Rhubarb, chopped fine
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup sugar

Topping:
¼ cup oatmeal
¼ cup butter
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup flour

Mix rhubarb, flour and sugar and pour into 8 x 8 pan. Blend topping ingredients together and sprinkle over rhubarb mixture in pan.
Bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Rhubarb Pie

1 ¾ cups sugar
4 tablespoons flour
1/8 teaspoon of salt
2 eggs, beaten
3 cups raw rhubarb, chopped fine

Stir sugar, flour and salt together, add eggs and stir to make a batter. Add rhubarb to batter and blend well.
Pour into 9" unbaked pie shell and bake at 350 for 30 - 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Enjoy and happy knitting :)
*GB2G*

Oops and..Oh well

2005-08-14T19:15:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was housecleaning day, laundry day, dog bath day and also my grandson's birthday party. So...Naturally, I was hurrying to finish all my chores so that I could attend the special party. In the process of carrying a load of laundry from the bathroom to the laundry room I in my infinite wisdom decided to step over the doggie gate instead of opening it and you guessed it!...I fell. Dirty laundry goes everywhere, I am flaying in the air trying to keep my balance, the gate falls down, puppies and dogs run everywhere to avoid the crash and....In the middle of it all I try to save myself. Well...Oops...I failed. The gate hits me in the back of the leg and my left foot goes through the mesh of the gate. The end result - a terrible bruise on the back of my leg and a broken big toe. Congratulations Teresa! Did this stop me? Oh no, in my brilliance I bandaged the toe, completed my chores and went to the birthday party.
So today, I get up with a throbbing toe, a foot too swollen to fit in any of my shoes and a body that aches beyond measure. Needless to say that I could not attend my church services in a bedroom shoe so DH and I opted to stay at home today. I spent the day on the couch with my foot elevated to attempt to get the swelling down. Oh, well....A good time to catch up on some knitting. Life and knitting must go on :)
*GB2G*

Hectic

2005-08-09T11:02:00.000-04:00

..Things have been very hectic lately. I have been up to my nose at work, so many on vacation, and in a small shop that makes a big load for everyone else. But...I know that someone has to cover for me when I am on vacation so it is only fair. So, my WIPs have taken a back seat lately and I have missed working on them.
..I did get my delivery made to the hospitals for TTT. The nurses were so appreciative - they were all diving into the bags to look at the baby items. It is such a joy to see that the items are so loved.
..I got my items sent to Ellen for Ship Support. I did not get to finish as many hats as I would have liked but there will be some soldiers who will know that someone in the states is praying for them.
...I have started a prayer shawl on my loom and completed a few inches on it. I still have one on the needles but I wanted to use the loom for the next shawl. Since it takes me longer to do one on the looms I figured that I better start on it before finishing the needle knit one. We will see how it goes.
..I have some baby booties on my preemie loom, a baby hat on the needles, and a hat for SS on a set of circulars, and a poncho for me on another set of needles. I love to have several projects going at the same time - I can change around - especially on big projects like a shawl, poncho, or afghan, as it keep me from getting bored with the color scheme before I finish the item. Working on it a little at a time makes the item seem new every time I look at it. Strange, I know but it works for me.
..The puppies are getting bigger - 7 weeks now and are becoming a joy to watch. They are ready for their new homes now - so we are patiently waiting while their new owners are found, just enjoying them while we can.
...have a wonderful week all!
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Moving slowly

2005-07-27T19:28:00.000-04:00

Since everyone is talking about the heat I will not delve into that steamy subject except to say that I am moving very slowly. It has not been any weather to get outside and I seem to have no energy. Yet the crafting must go on....
...So I have finished my butterflies and they have all flown to their new homes. I have received three of my six from my KWON friends. The colors are so bright and cheerful that I have placed them on my fridge so I can see them each morning. Just the sight of them brightens my day.
....I sent my prayer shawl to my friend that is battling cancer for the second time. This is so sad and I am remembering her and hubby in my prayers each night.
...I started on another prayer shawl - I don't know who this one will be for but I know that before it is finished I will be led in the direction that I should send it. This has happened before so I have faith that He has a recipient in mind. I am doing this one on my prayer loom instead of needle knitting it. My CP has been bothering me a lot lately so knitting has slowed down and crocheting has had to stop. The motion of crochet really irritates Mr. CP so I have moved away from it for a little while.
...I have been looming some hats for TTT. I had a bunch of little balls of yarn left over from previous projects so I am using those for my little hats. When the "little ball basket" begins to run over into the floor it is time to put those little fellows to work :)
.... I have some lovely wool in my stash from Knit Picks that I want to make a felted tote with but the weather has detoured that project for a while. I cannot think of wool right now so I think I will stick to my baby yarns for now.
...My KWON group is starting some new KAL classes next month so I am excited about those. There will be some really great projects coming up. If you are free - join us!
....The puppies are growing and are almost 6 weeks old now. It will soon be time to find them new homes. (a sad but happy time) The little sweeties sure do grow on you! I know that I will be sad to see them go but DH says that we must sell them. Yes, Yes, I Know...Five dogs in the house is too many :) Oh, well..I will just play with them while they are here.
...Stay cool all....Purl a stitch for me as I am off to play with the puppies!
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

My new toy arrived!

2005-07-21T21:32:00.000-04:00

My new toy arrived today - HP IPAQ - joy! joy!. I have been wanting one for so long. I had a small MuVO player that I got free with my audible subscription and I have enjoyed it so much. Now I can read (listen) to a book and knit at the same time. Now that is putting technology to a really good use. But the IPAQ will do so much more. I can use my wireless connection and surf the internet from my recliner as I knit, put my knitting pattern in it and take it with me when I go somewhere, keep my appointments handy and so much more. I am so thrilled. AND....No loom knitter would have a IPAQ with the plain case they send you free - we must have a knitted cover. SO....I promptly got out my FG preemie hat loom and made a new cover for my knitting partner! And....Here it is..... (drum roll)

Of course it had to be purple! It is mine! I used some purple sock yarn from my stash and the elastic in the yarn gave it just the give that it needed. I crocheted the drawstring and added the orange beads for color. I love it - so much better for the knitter at heart than the plain black cover. Heh...heh....We knitters can find any excuse to knit something :)
....I got my first butterfly today from my KWON group swap - a lovely pink and white one. (Thanks Sue!) It was in the mailbox when I got home from work today and was the brightest spot in my day. I used some magnetic pins and put it on my fridge. Now I will have a bright cheery friend to start each morning with. I hope to finish my butterflies this weekend so they will be flying out on Monday to my cyberfriends at KWON.
....Have a super weekend all and stay cool!
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

so hot....

2005-07-20T09:52:00.000-04:00

...It has been so hot here this week that it really makes it hard to think about knitting..however I am so addicted that I just keep on keeping on. :) I have spent most of time indoors due to the heat so I have used this time to make a new project list. I am looking at patterns for a felted purse for Fall. I have some lovely wool that I got from Little Knits that is just crying to be made into a purse. I can't decide if I want to loom it or needle knit. I will keep thinking about it and soon I will decide. There is a great pattern for a knitted/felted purse in the August issue of Country Living and also in the new issue of Creative Knitting. If anyone is interested check them out.
....I am finishing up my butterfly dishcloths for the KWON group. I have crocheted some of them, knitted some and just finished one that I loom knitted. I tried a little different twist and instead of purling the first three stitches I flat-stitched them. It gave an interesting border and I like it. I might use that technique again. I will post a photo later so everyone can see.
....I am still working on my 6th prayer shawl though progress has been slow since it is so hot. I cannot work with it long so I just pick it up for a few minutes at a time. I really do need to finish it though as the lady that I am making it for (a 2nd time cancer patient) will need it soon. I hope to finish it this weekend. I needle knitted this one but my next one I am going to loom. I got my new prayer loom from DA and I am itching to try it out. But I have promised myself that since I have so many WIPs that I will finish some of them before I start another. Here's hoping that I stick to that one :)
....I am needle knitting another hat for Ship Support and almost have it finished. I try to complete 4 hats per month (that is my personal goal) and this will meet my goal for this month. The mailing date is August 1 so I will need to finish it so I can wash them all before mailing them to Ellen. Ship Support is a wonderful project - it lets our guys and gals serving our country know that the people at home are praying for them and appreciate them. There is a link on my blog if you are interested. We just picked up two more units and will need all the items that we can get. Your knitted, crocheted, or sewn items will be appreciated so much by these folks. Please consider it.
....I have most of my items ready for delivery for Teeny Tiny Treasures. I will get them to the hospital next week. It is hard to think that the babies need warm items in this heat but they really do. And the nursing staff, and the families are so thrilled to get the handmade love items.
....Well, I guess that is my update for now so I will get back to work :) Stay cool all!
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Good week :)

2005-07-15T20:30:00.000-04:00

...This has been a hard week at work as we had so many deadlines to meet. The stress level was really high and by the end of the week we were all getting edgy. But it was a good week too. So many good things happened this week...The puppies are growing, their eyes are open and they are starting to crawl out of the kennel...My dad and dh had a birthday....My new PDA came-toy time!....And I got some of the most beautiful hats and blankets from my KWON group ladies for the TTT babies! Ladies you have been such a blessing to me:)
...I finished two more hats for Ship Support - I do so love that new pattern.
...Two more butterflies are done for the Butterfly Swap for my KWON group.
...I got several fleece blankets and hats cut out for TTT. I hope to get a bunch of them sewed up this weekend.
...The hurricane missed us and we only got the humidity and rain. But my prayers are with those who were not as blessed.
And for those in London, my heart was torn when I read about the terrorist acts there. I am praying for you all.
And for my wish list...I have my eye on the new adjustable loom that Lynn has come out with. I know that I have more looms than I can use but I don't have one like that! Look out DH....Mom is going to spend some money:)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

New Hat Pattern

2005-07-08T21:23:00.000-04:00

I tried a new hat pattern for the knit hats that I do for Ship Support and I really like it. I have been using circular needles for my hats and this pattern uses straight needles. It is a pattern from the Ship Support group written by Ellen and I love it. It is a simple pattern using knits and purls to make a ribbed effect but the hat comes out so nice. I used No. 8 needles and woolease yarn and the hats turned out great. They look small but they stretch like you would not believe! It was a nice change from the circular pattern. You get tired of doing the same thing over and over so a change is nice:)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Poncho back finished

2005-07-01T20:17:00.000-04:00

I finished the back of my loomed poncho for our group KAL. It is lacy but soft and I really like the look. I have started on the front but it will be a while before I can finish it as I have so many other projects that I need to complete. And since the poncho is for me I can put it on the back burner for a while. It is much too warm for it now anyway so if I finish it before fall that will be fine. Since this is the first large item I have made on my looms I am tickled with it. :)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

And here's the butterflies

2005-06-30T21:49:00.000-04:00

I have completed two of my butterfly dishcloths for our KWON exchange. The group has grown now and we are up to sixteen so we will each need to make eight. That is super! I think that this is going to be such fun. I have started another hat for Ship Support. I am trying a new pattern - a rib hat. It is done on #8 straight needles instead of the normal circulars and I am enjoying the change. When I get it finished I will post a photo. My crafts may be slowing down some as the garden veggies are starting to come in. I have already done pickles and after tonight's picking it looks like the weekend holds in store: canned squash, more pickles and green beans. Hot work now but boy they taste good in the winter months. Have a wonderful 4th of July everyone and please take time to say a prayer of thanks for those who have served and are serving to preserve our freedom. Blessings all....
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Butterfly Exchange..Knit, crochet or loom?

2005-06-27T13:14:00.000-04:00

One of the ladies on my KWON group(MJ) came up with the wonderful idea of doing a "Butterfly exchange" - what happens is the members that want to participate sign up then we will all make dishcloths and form them into the shape of a butterfly using chenille sticks. After they are completed we will mail the one we made to another a member. The idea of the butterfly came from our list mom "Lynn" as she makes them and sells them with her homemade soap. The dishcloth can be knitted, crocheted or loomed in any color cotton yarn and the pattern of your choice. I think that this is going to be such fun :) I will post a picture of one of mine when I get one finished. I crocheted two last night and I just need to weave in the threads and add the chenille stick for the body. I don't know if I am going to crochet all of mine (we need to make 7 each) or if I will crochet part of them, knit part of them and maybe loom some. Decisions, decisions, decision.....Guess I will play it by ear. I don't think I will be able to crochet them all as "uncle Arthur" has come for a visit and my left hand is becoming a pain :), so...The old brace had to be put back on. I guess we will just see..
I got another package today for TTT from one of the ladies in my KWON group - 22 lovely blankets for the babies. What a wonderful group of caring ladies they are! I will get them packaged and will take them in my delivery to the hospital this weekend.
She did it! Lisa Gentry in Monroe, LA broke the record for the fastest crocheter this weekend. Congrats Lisa! She crocheted 5, 112 stitches in 30 minutes - 170 stitches per minute! Now, that is a super sonic moving crochet hook! Here is the link if you would like to read the article, it is awesome and I am so tickled for her:) http://thenewsstar.gannettonline.com/gns/graham/index.html
Well....lunch break is over so I better get back to work.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Finished some of my sweaters

2005-06-26T19:52:00.000-04:00

The weekend was hot and humid as usual not much of a time to work outside. I did however do some weeding in the flowerbed after the sun went down. I worked on some more of the baby sweaters. I got the buttons sewed on some of them and still have three more to weave threads in and sew on buttons. They turned out well and I was pleased with them.
My mother-in-law came by to see the puppies and brought several skeins of yarn that she purchased at the Goodwill. There was several colors and types of yarn; some acrylic, boucle, and wool blends. She wants a scarf knitted from the rose boucle to match a sweater that she has but the rest can be used for charity. There was a tangled ball of aqua wool blend that was just delicious. I spent two hours untangling that yarn and rewinding it into a ball with my ball winder. I just about gave up several times but I didn't. I don't know if I was stubborn and hated to be beat by a ball of yarn or just that I loved that yarn and hated to waste it - either way I finished it. Man - what we do for our yarn addiction. :)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

The Puppies are here!

2005-06-20T19:43:00.000-04:00

...Minnie (our toy poodle) had her puppies today! Right on her due date - wow, I wish I could have done that with my two girls :) But anyway, we have three little girls, black and white like their mommy. Big little girls too! We thought that Min was going to have several since she was so big but the little girls were just big girls. Minnie had a quick delivery and she and the puppies are doing great.
...My loomed KAL poncho is coming along good I have almost finished the back. The yarn that I used was some from my stash instead of the colorwaves so it is not as dense as the pattern but a little more lacy. But I tend to like it. I should have the back finished soon so I can start on the front side.

...The homespun loomed baby hats came out adorable. I used the lemonade color and I love it! They are so soft and look so happy. I can just picture the little ones in them. I am definitely going to get some more of that yarn and make some more.
...I bought some of the Caron bright colors this weekend. I lo....ve those colors. I am going to crochet some little diaper shirts out of those. I have some cute little buttons that I bought on clearance that are in the shape of hearts that will be perfect. I think the preemie babies will look like little dolls in these. I think that I will use the diaper shirt pattern of Bev's. I have used it many times and it makes a perfect shirt for the little ones when I drop the hook size back to a H hook inside of the I. Bev has some wonderful patterns on her site - check it out - www.bevscountrycottage.com. Whether you knit, crochet, sew or loom knit she has a really good selection.
....Got to run - have a meeting to attend tonight.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Sad Today :(

2005-06-15T18:25:00.000-04:00

...Today I learned of a young couple who are facing some terrible time and are experiencing so much sadness. The young man (30 yrs. Old) had a brain tumor and underwent surgery to have it removed. The surgery went well but now cancer has moved in - it is terminal and the doctors have given him a few weeks to live. His girlfriend has moved in with him to care for him since he has no family and is providing round the clock care. She took classes to learn to deliver his meds and provide the daily care that he needs. They are having financial difficulties as well - it is so very sad. We all take so much for granted - I am blessed beyond measure and am never thankful enough. I made a prayer shawl for her and she was so touched that she began crying and could not stop. Groceries were collected for them and a member of our church delivered them. She told them that she had been praying all day for some help - they ran out of food yesterday and she had nothing to fix for them that day. There are so many people like this and they need our prayers but they also something more material - financial assistance, food, help with the sick etc. I hope that these in need will be laid on hearts that they may be helped. Sorry to rant on...But my heart was really heavy about this - thanks for listening.
...To the knitting. Well, our KWOW group has started a KAL for a poncho. One of our members Kay took a knitting pattern and converted it to the looms for us. Thanks Kay! So we are off and running with a new experience in loom knitting. I have made hats, socks, blankets, and slippers but nothing as large as a poncho - this will be a new experience. I have gotten started on my 46" rake and it is looking pretty good. I am still not pleased with the ends - I can never get them to look smooth, but overall it is going well.
....Homespun, I am loving the new colors. I bought some the past week and they are so cheerful. I am looming some baby hats out of some of it and I might make a prayer shawl out of some of the others. If you have not seen it - check it out! They are great. I love homespun yarn it is always so soft and cuddly.
...Well off to fix supper - it is church nite!
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

My Progress

2005-06-09T15:22:00.000-04:00

My progress has been really slow lately. The weather has been so hot and for some reason I cannot get motivated. I got my delivery made to the hospital and the nurses were thrilled. I was afraid some of the bright colors that I had used for the blankets would not be "loved" but the staff was overjoyed with them. I love bright colors - to me they are happy colors and I was so pleased that the staff loved them too. Several of the blankets and hats that in this month's delivery were from my looming group "Knitting Without Needles" - a wonderful group of caring ladies that have been so good to me and the babies. The list mom Lynn has been such a terrific support of Teeny Tiny Treasures. I have been blessed so much by being a part of this group. I did get my prayer shawl finished for the teenage daughter of a friend of ours. She is going through a really tough time right now. She was born with heart problems and has had two pacemakers since birth. Now they feel that a lung transplant may be needed as the heart disease has damaged one of her lungs so severely that it has ceased to function. It is so sad for a 17 year old. The prayer shawl that I made for her was trended for the young at heart. I used some red sprinkle wool-ease and trimmed it with red fun fur. I took some photos but the red did not come out very well.
I have started another prayer shawl and am looming some baby hats for TTT. Minnie our toy poodle is due to deliver her puppies on the 20th of this month so she is beginning to get miserable. I feel so sorry for her but am looking forward to the pups - I love puppies.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Finally...

2005-06-01T09:43:00.000-04:00

My poison oak has finally gone - leaving some scars that I hope that go away. But at this point I am so relieved to have gotten rid of it that I will not complain. I put the final stitches on a prayer shawl that I was working on for a knitting friend. I washed and shipped it today so things are moving along. I still have a lot to complete but I am at least able to craft again. Boy, I was about to go into crafting DT's - LOL.
I plan to wash and package the items for Teeny Tiny Treasures this week so I can get them to the hospital. The delivery will be a few days late but I wanted to make sure that my rash was completely gone before I started working with the baby items.
- must get back to my knitting :0)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

the oak has struck

2005-05-23T22:32:00.000-04:00

I have a full blown case of poison oak now so the crafting will stop for a while. I cannot chance getting the oils on my projects and besides I am too miserable to do anything. I will get back to it soon.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

it's here......

2005-05-16T09:26:00.000-04:00

well... it is here - just like I figured - the poison oak has arrived! After the hot shower and careful preparations the evil oak one has invaded and I am covered up. Oh....I am going to be so grouchy.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Poison Oak...

2005-05-14T21:23:00.000-04:00

We worked outside all day today clearing flower beds and cleaning up the yard. After wearing leather gloves, a long sleeved shirt, socks, workboots, and long pants...I still ended up with poison oak. Man! I am so allergic to that stuff. I just have a few spots and have treated them but I know that they will spread.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Sock Class

2005-05-12T12:07:00.000-04:00

Our loom sock KAL was last night and it was a blast. I think I finally have the heels down so I am going to spring forward and start my first pair of loom knitted socks with a heel. I have purchased some great sock yarn - Bernat Sox in "Hippi Hot" to make a first pair. I have printed out my pattern, got my row scratch sheet ready, got my yarn and loom so....I guess that I am ready. I will post some photos to show you my progress - maybe it will spur you to try a pair. :)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

...lazy sunny days

2005-05-11T15:45:00.000-04:00

I don't know if it is the sunny days, warm temperatures or if I am just lazy but I have really gotten behind on my posts - I do apologize. It seems that my mind is going in several directions at once lately and I have good intentions but I don't seem to get much done.
...but I have finished a few of my WIPs - I completed the prayer shawl that I was working on and I was really pleased with it. I used the triangle pattern and mixed caron embroidery print with maroon plush by RH and was amazed at how well it blended. I did a simple shell around the edges for a border and that really added to it. I didn't get a photo of it as I gave it away before I could take a picture.
...my knitted hats for Ship Support were all completed, washed and shipped to Ellen.
...the booties, hats, and blankets were finished up and the Teeny Tiny Treasures shipment for April went out the last of the month.
--Now it is time for new beginnings..I have started another prayer shawl, actually two, I have one that I carry in my knitting bag with me so that I can do a stitch or two when I have a spare moment. And another one that is beside my chair in the den, this is the tv one, the one that I work on as I watch tv at night with hubby. The carry along shawl is a combo yarn one - I am using LB woolease red sprinkles and rainbow red fun fur. It seems to be working out really well. I know that seems a little splashy for a prayer shawl but I have been really led to do this one so I know that there is someone that is in need of this particular shawl - I just feel it in my heart. My tv shawl - the one beside my chair is in a light lilac using LB pound of love yarn - a soft quiet color that will be soothing.
--Also, I am working on some loom booties and hats for the babies for Teeny Tiny Treasures. Our looming group Knitting without Needles is beginning a class on loomed socks with heels - something that I am really looking forward to. I have made several pairs of the tube socks but the ones with heels have not been attempted yet so.....new adventures in the world of knitting looms.
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

My Crazy Hat

2005-04-25T19:13:00.000-04:00

After several weeks of picking up and laying down...my crazy hat is done! It has been a slow moving project but that was my fault as I not worked on it very long at at time. I have just picked it up...Done a few rows...put it down. I hand knitted it with Bernat Sox yarn (color - Hot Tamale) and used No. 3 circular needles. The picture does not do it justice (camera operator error) as it really is a super hat. It is very stretchy and so soft.
I worked on several preemie hats on my knitting looms this week and finished about seven. I feel really good about that especially since the weather has been really nice and I wanted to stay outside. I think that I have contracted a case of Spring Fever! But that is okay too - well, supper dishes are waiting. :)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

2005-04-19T20:42:00.000-04:00

My Loomed Slipper Sox

my slipper sox are finished

2005-04-19T20:32:00.000-04:00

I finally finished my slipper sox and I am very pleased with the way that they turned out. I finished them off with a square toe as I plan to wear them as socks too this Fall with my Birks. I love the way they turned out and they are so warm. I know that these socks may be too thick for some to wear as sox but for me they are just great. I am very cold natured so they will be perfect for me. They would have been a very quick project if I had worked more consistently on them but since they were for me I just worked on them in between other projects. I used the LB chunky yarn (purple of course:) and my adult sock loom. I hated to take time away from Teeny Tiny Treasures, Ship Support and Prayer Shawl Ministry to work on them...since I was not in a hurry. But I have included a picture so you can see the final result.
I got an email from NuMei that my yarn order has shipped - it should be here on Thursday. I am very excited as I purchased some very lovely yarns at super prices. They have some really good sale prices right now on some select yarns so you might want to check it out - www.numei.com. Hey...why should I be the only one sleeping on yarn. :) Now to finish my other slipper sox that I started for Ship Support this weekend. I have one completed and half of another one done so I will try to complete the last one tonight.
Until later - enjoy the fibers :o)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

the weekend - wow!

2005-04-09T22:12:00.000-04:00

It finally made it - the weekend and boy was I glad to see it :) This week was a tough one and the the thoughts of a few days away from the office was such a welcome relief. It was a productive week though so I cannot say that it was a bad week in that direction but the stress levels were high. But it is behind me now so we will look toward brighter horizons. Today was just gorgeous - the perfect spring day - and I loved every minute of it :) It was sunny, 62 degrees and clear blue skies - God's work was shining today. My tulips are blooming so lovely and the sweet smell of the Jamine vine blooming at the corner of the back porch just called to me all day. I did not get to spend as much time outside as I would have liked but I slipped out to enjoy the sunshine when a spare moment presented itself. I had so much housework to do and laundry galore.

I did take a break from all the work when Knitty Gritty came on - I love that show! It was a very interesting show today as they showed some lovely ponchos, shrugs and shawls made with rectangles. It was really cool - watch it if you get the chance. I am definitely going to print off the pattern from the website as I really want to try that shrug. And speaking of shawls, I gave away my first shawl ministry shawl this week. It is such a touching experience to present the shawl to someone - the feelings that you have cannot be expressed in words. If you are interested in this ministry please check it out at www.shawlministry.com. It has really been a blessing to me.

Knits Picks new catalog came in the mail today -- I have grabbed seconds to stop and browse through it all day - I feel like a kid in a candy store with so many new lovely yarns. It is on the web if you do not get the paper catalog at www.knitpicks.com. They also have the new book out by Meg Swansen "The Opinionated Knitter" - which I have added to my long wish list. There is a really nice article about how Meg brought the book together. It is a very interesting read - check it out:0)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

Wow! What A Day..

2005-04-06T21:47:00.000-04:00

Gee...what a day! It was so hectic and busy before lunch that I hardly had time to breathe. The phones rang off the hook until about 2:00 this evening then it finally slowed down. I did not even get to take a lunch break which was stinky. I had wanted to finish the hat that I was working on during lunch today but alas - not to be. I did at least get my items for Ship Support sent out and also the box of things that I packaged up for Online Angels shipped so that was good. It has been a while since I sent some things to Mary so I had a pretty good size box full of items for her this time.
I have almost finished one of my loomed slipper socks. I am doing them in LB Chunky USA and it is working well. Even though this is my first effort at slipper socks I am pleased with the way they are turning out. I am hoping to finish them soon. It is getting too warm for them now but I will be ready for fall anyway :)
I finished my comfort prayer shawl this weekend so I am going to start on a new one. I bought some lovely boucle yarn from Smiley's Yarn ( it was on sale for .99) the colors were so cheerful that I am anxious to start working with them.
My bootie looms have stayed busy this week. I proclaimed this "Bootie Week" and I have been making preemie booties on my new loom from Lynn this week. I have been using some Caron bright varigated yarn and I love it! It is not what you normally think of as baby colors but it looks happy - so I am loving it! I had better see what I can find for supper as DH will finish mowing soon and will want to eat so I will sign off for now.
...'till later, and remember...

..........a life knitted with trust is unlikely to unravel,

a stitch may break now and then,

but with stix and a ball of string made of love,

these holes you can easily mend.

Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*

2005-04-06T19:20:00.000-04:00

my slipper sock progress

WIP Finished

2005-04-05T20:52:00.000-04:00

Finally completed some of my WIPs - that always makes me feel so good. I guess it is because I seem to have an endless number of things in progress and to finish some is just so fulfilling. Every time I get something done I tell myself that I will complete some more of my WIPs before I start any more new ones, but...Then I find some really yummy yarn that I just have to try, or come across a new pattern that calls to me, and..Then I am right back where I was - behind! Oh, well, it is okay as I am just happy to be working with fibers...So I will just revel in my love of the yarn :)
Now that I have totally gotten away from my original train of though, let's return to the completed items. I finished my triangle prayer shawl done in Bright and Lofty yarn (pheasant color). It is very fluffy and cuddly - I am quite pleased with the way that it turned out. I was concerned at first that this yarn might be too heavy but the feel of softness and bulk of the shawl seems to beg you to wrap up in it - so the comfort shawl is done.
My hats for Ship Support are washed, labeled and ready to ship - which is good since the mailing deadline for this month is in 2 days - better get them to the post office tomorrow. I also got some preemie hats and booties completed for the April TTT shipment. I got my new looms from Lynn and have been really enjoying them. I love to loom knit and for booties it is the only way for me. (I hate dpns). If you have not tried loom knitting - please do - if you once try it you will be hooked! It is such a simple way to get a warm knitted item - not to mention it is really fun. As the old ad used to say..Try it, you'll like it.....:)
Happy Knitting :)
*GB2G*