tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22927211840991763842024-03-13T00:52:37.355-04:00Vegemite, Chocolate and KnittingMusings from a knitaholic, chocoholic and catalholic...OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.comBlogger184125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-42686632327430929172012-03-20T08:59:00.000-04:002012-03-20T08:59:13.864-04:00SplendiferousAn awesome word to describe an awesome birthday!<br />
<br />
Normally, I celebrate my birthday fairly quietly with my family and a few friends - especially when the numerous lit candles could quite possibly start a bush fire!<br />
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Sometimes in life though we get wonderful little surprises on our birthday. Friday was just such a day, and I want to share! <br />
<br />
The day began like every 16th March, but by the end of the day I felt so blessed to have such lovely people in my life. Even the weather Gods smiled on me and presented a warm sunny day of 18C. The norm for this time of year is about 4C!<br />
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Now to the fun stuff.... Most of us are delighted to get a birthday cake.....so how <b>splendiferous</b> is it to get two!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBzHnKHIu2k/T2TyJ29s86I/AAAAAAAABn4/nyeAXIKJQyY/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nBzHnKHIu2k/T2TyJ29s86I/AAAAAAAABn4/nyeAXIKJQyY/s320/cake.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DQ Blizzard Chocolate Ice Cream Cake (my husband's choice)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And then there was this one from my lovely friends at <a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/">Cotton-by-Post</a>:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fRW2CCFWOZE/T2h8ly5x0FI/AAAAAAAABpI/VcokC6ejFUo/s1600/cake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fRW2CCFWOZE/T2h8ly5x0FI/AAAAAAAABpI/VcokC6ejFUo/s320/cake2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you so much Suzanne and Garnet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Throughout the day I received so many birthday cards (thank you especially to Barb and Palmer), lots of emails and Facebook wishes. Two of the email highlights were from my adorable nieces. How <b>splendiferous </b>is this:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KazTToKhp4E/T2Tyva_LMJI/AAAAAAAABoA/XaXCbt8nZq0/s1600/jaycee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KazTToKhp4E/T2Tyva_LMJI/AAAAAAAABoA/XaXCbt8nZq0/s320/jaycee.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaycee's birthday card (she's 6yr old)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wS-DsisinVg/T2Ty8HJxmlI/AAAAAAAABoI/X83LHx4vhew/s1600/karlia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wS-DsisinVg/T2Ty8HJxmlI/AAAAAAAABoI/X83LHx4vhew/s320/karlia.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karlia's birthday card (she's 8yr old)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And my goodness, the gifts! I was awfully spoiled! <b>Splendiferously </b>spoiled!<br />
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Mum and Dad sent me a lovely necklace:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-655ZKH8tV_w/T2T4Ngyw22I/AAAAAAAABoQ/mAC3n-waN14/s1600/amythest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-655ZKH8tV_w/T2T4Ngyw22I/AAAAAAAABoQ/mAC3n-waN14/s320/amythest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amethyst necklace</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My sister and her family sent me a gift card:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--GhYDDx9boo/T2T4adKYv3I/AAAAAAAABoY/wLVsFCHbudU/s1600/zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="157" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--GhYDDx9boo/T2T4adKYv3I/AAAAAAAABoY/wLVsFCHbudU/s320/zen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got them well trained!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My brother and his family sent me a gift card:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CCUuWhn4pxU/T2T4mswDdjI/AAAAAAAABog/WYsWAyipWWE/s1600/yarnmarket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CCUuWhn4pxU/T2T4mswDdjI/AAAAAAAABog/WYsWAyipWWE/s320/yarnmarket.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got them well trained too!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My lovely friend Roxanne gave me a gift card:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dIYl4X0R0s8/T2h9Ls5Fz3I/AAAAAAAABpQ/B_wjmlwylgc/s1600/giftcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dIYl4X0R0s8/T2h9Ls5Fz3I/AAAAAAAABpQ/B_wjmlwylgc/s320/giftcard.jpg" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you Roxy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Suzanne (<a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/">Cotton-by-Post</a>) made me this totally awesome knitting bag:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JIjZfc4-eXI/T2T5JcIYHgI/AAAAAAAABoo/ow8Ys46SU80/s1600/bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JIjZfc4-eXI/T2T5JcIYHgI/AAAAAAAABoo/ow8Ys46SU80/s320/bag.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand made knitting bag with sheep, wool and needles all over it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My friend <a href="http://issueswithknitting.blogspot.ca/">Laurie</a>, bless her heart, bought me a pdf pattern from my "favourites" list in Ravelry <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/decent-days-waistcoat">DECENT DAYS waistcoat</a> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">by Ildiko Eros:</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Unm1HvdPd9c/T2U0Kl4vdPI/AAAAAAAABow/1VInAL14NIU/s1600/waistcoat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Unm1HvdPd9c/T2U0Kl4vdPI/AAAAAAAABow/1VInAL14NIU/s320/waistcoat.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decent Days Waistcoat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And now, what would a birthday be without me buying myself a gift? Voila:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hTMixsA4Qfg/T2Xmg7GlrLI/AAAAAAAABo4/6ipqvZxH6IY/s1600/namaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hTMixsA4Qfg/T2Xmg7GlrLI/AAAAAAAABo4/6ipqvZxH6IY/s320/namaste.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Namaste Monroe Bag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And then to top it all off, a customer brought me in a huge bag full of.....Shetland fleece!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXt7rIx7xfY/T2Xnif-GxdI/AAAAAAAABpA/vQligZ3zCNQ/s1600/fleece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXt7rIx7xfY/T2Xnif-GxdI/AAAAAAAABpA/vQligZ3zCNQ/s320/fleece.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shetland fleece</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This fleece obviously needs washing, then carding, then spinning. Unfortunately, it wasn't skirted, so all the crap is in with the good stuff. But hey, it was a gift! And I love it :-)<br />
<br />
Thank you to everyone for making me feel so loved and special on my <b>splendiferous </b>birthday! Mwah, mwah to you all!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-31028597647040793572012-02-01T13:46:00.002-05:002012-02-01T13:47:17.721-05:00Out with the Old and in with the NewClosets and cabinets that is, not my husband .... although LOL.<br />
<br />
January seemed to be renovation month this year. For a long time now, storage has been an issue in our little hand built 1959 house. Back in those days, I suppose people didn't have much of anything in abundance to store, so homes were often built with almost no closet, cupboard or cabinet space.<br />
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The rooms that were given make-overs were the office, master bedroom and guest room. OK, OK.....let's call it what it really is. The guest room shall hence forth be known as the yarn room [tic].<br />
<br />
The office and master bedroom shared a common wall and wardrobe. Now the master bedroom has a walk-in closet!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VhwkrhZFScU/TymFmTN9cJI/AAAAAAAABnI/Z3443nX9WE8/s1600/room1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VhwkrhZFScU/TymFmTN9cJI/AAAAAAAABnI/Z3443nX9WE8/s320/room1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AeNxyIgQiI/TymFoLZmQcI/AAAAAAAABnQ/AT8jQAmY9ns/s1600/room2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AeNxyIgQiI/TymFoLZmQcI/AAAAAAAABnQ/AT8jQAmY9ns/s320/room2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The back of the walk-in closet is one of the walls in the office. The cupboards from the yarn room went into the office for stationery and supplies. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxtn8DChU_w/TymFzlr3P7I/AAAAAAAABnY/FKzMLPdCLh8/s1600/office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bxtn8DChU_w/TymFzlr3P7I/AAAAAAAABnY/FKzMLPdCLh8/s320/office.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The side of the walk-in closet is the hallway wall, that has now become a photo wall.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7AaszwsgL0/TymGtaXqZlI/AAAAAAAABno/3-zSjXF4KfU/s1600/photowall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7AaszwsgL0/TymGtaXqZlI/AAAAAAAABno/3-zSjXF4KfU/s320/photowall.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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And the yarn room has been organised into wall cubes<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZotI9Z9sso/TymGVyzNDqI/AAAAAAAABng/htsPCUsU7rA/s1600/stash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ZotI9Z9sso/TymGVyzNDqI/AAAAAAAABng/htsPCUsU7rA/s320/stash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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and a cabinet.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6L1rNthLT2k/TymG6HXkAiI/AAAAAAAABnw/x8Iji7Aqnyc/s1600/stash2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6L1rNthLT2k/TymG6HXkAiI/AAAAAAAABnw/x8Iji7Aqnyc/s320/stash2.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
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I'm contemplating another row of five cubes in the yarn room. I have to be stash enhancement ready LOL.<br />
<br />OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-60188728430988569402012-01-28T14:38:00.000-05:002012-01-28T14:38:01.909-05:00Weekend with a HarlotA <a href="http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/">Yarn Harlot</a> that is.....none other than the fabulous Stephanie Pearl-McPhee!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhGJ4SGCOUo/TyRI3YrhrHI/AAAAAAAABmY/-e0JdWNvhQ0/s1600/yarnharlot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhGJ4SGCOUo/TyRI3YrhrHI/AAAAAAAABmY/-e0JdWNvhQ0/s200/yarnharlot.jpg" width="172" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephanie Pearl-McPhee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Profuse apologies for the tardiness of this blog post. Stephanie was invited by <a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/yarn.htm">Cotton-by-Post</a> to London, Ontario for a book signing and two classes last weekend (20th - 22nd January, 2012). And I'm so slack that I don't get around to blogging about it until today!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjgNN3GMAVo/TyRMkU2tzKI/AAAAAAAABmo/7Crv66TJZaA/s1600/friday3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UjgNN3GMAVo/TyRMkU2tzKI/AAAAAAAABmo/7Crv66TJZaA/s1600/friday3.jpg" /></a>WHAT A FABULOUS EVENT!!<br />
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I attended all three days. Friday night was the seminar and book signing. I own four of her books and she happily signed them all! Whoot!!<br />
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The 6 hour workshops on Saturday and Sunday were intense, exhausting and totally amazing! Saturday's workshop was entitled "Knitting for Speed and Efficiency". Sunday's workshop was entitled "Liking Lace".<br />
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I took copious notes at both workshops. Knitting for Speed and Efficiency introduced the class to "lever knitting". I wrote a blog post in October, 2011 about this technique <a href="http://ozbambi.blogspot.com/2011/10/lever-knitting.html">here</a>. I'm doing my best to learn this technique so I can knit comfortably with the yarn tensioned in either my left hand or in my right hand. Lever knitting tensions yarn in the right hand, but since I'm a "picker", I learned to tension yarn in my left hand.<br />
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Liking Lace introduced the class to lace; the history, the traditions, the different kinds of lace, determining good and bad lace yarn, and knitting lace. Stephanie even passed around some of her beloved stash for us to pet! She also showed us many of her beautiful shawls.<br />
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Now for the photos:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nA5KZPEOufc/TyRM0GdAjrI/AAAAAAAABmw/n7IdDOYOI_8/s1600/class4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nA5KZPEOufc/TyRM0GdAjrI/AAAAAAAABmw/n7IdDOYOI_8/s320/class4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Book signing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWt3MPnb8eI/TyRMZEFLeYI/AAAAAAAABmg/ChV2gLWbrqw/s1600/class3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWt3MPnb8eI/TyRMZEFLeYI/AAAAAAAABmg/ChV2gLWbrqw/s320/class3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday class</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bz37s36sRmc/TyRNDqJUdQI/AAAAAAAABm4/8vMlrJ-7cEc/s1600/class2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bz37s36sRmc/TyRNDqJUdQI/AAAAAAAABm4/8vMlrJ-7cEc/s320/class2.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstration of Norwegian Purling</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGAOdYIm6B4/TyRNSLjFP2I/AAAAAAAABnA/sBV-sRREBjk/s1600/class1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGAOdYIm6B4/TyRNSLjFP2I/AAAAAAAABnA/sBV-sRREBjk/s320/class1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstration of Norwegian Purling
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
THANK YOU SO MUCH STEPHANIE!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-35196644277603928382011-12-13T18:01:00.002-05:002011-12-13T18:01:09.855-05:00I'm So BlueI'm so <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b style="background-color: #cfe2f3;">blue</b></span>.<br />
<br />
Well, no. Blue is such a nice colour. I feel more like <b style="background-color: #eeeeee;">gray</b>. Even worse...black.<br />
<br />
Yes. I feel <b style="background-color: white;">black</b><span style="background-color: white;">... and </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: red;">red</span></b><span style="background-color: white;">. Red cos I'm mad too.</span><br />
<br />
I'm sitting here in my little Ontario house, wallowing in significant amounts of self pity.<br />
<br />
I'm SICK. Really awfully sick. So sick in fact, that instead of being in Australia, I'm still here in Canada. I had to re-arrange my entire travel itinerary - it took a long time to sort it all out, and it cost me a lot of money.<br />
<br />
Tuesday, 6th Dec: wake up in the night with a sore throat! Gasp! I had a cold a month ago. I had two cold sores three weeks ago. I had my flu shot two weeks ago! I thought I was good getting all the nasties out of the way before my trip home.<br />
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Wednesday, 7th Dec: bad sore throat, sinus headache, sneezing, runny nose. I send forth my army of ONE to buy as many cold/flu drugs as possible. Make lots of lemon and honey tea. Eat lots of garlic.<br />
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Thursday, 8th Dec: much of day in bed. In the evening I had to teach a knitting class, so dragged myself there. Actually felt better by 8:30pm.<br />
<br />
Friday, 9th Dec: not feeling too bad. Went to work for the day.<br />
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Saturday 10th Dec: oh dear Lord. So congested, I could hardly breathe. Terrible sore throat and massive ear ache. Go to doctor. Prognosis: severe throat and ear infections. Anti-biotics, ear drops, sleeping tablets, cold and flu tablets, lozengers, and $160 later....<br />
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Sunday, 11th Dec: cancel attendance at Chrissie party. Much of day in bed.<br />
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Monday, 12th Dec: phone doctor with new symptom - blocked ear. Should be flying to Australia today....NOT! Swollen ear drum = no flying. Bugger and many, many other highly decorative superlatives. Grounded.<br />
<br />
Spend three hours on the phone re-organising trip to Australia. $500 later.....[ugh]. New pills - antihistamine for swelling ear drum.<br />
<br />
Tuesday, 13th Dec: much of day in bed. Sore throat gone. Replaced with a nose blow per tissue! Not to mention two new cold sores! Will this nightmare ever end?<br />
<br />
Wednesday, 14th Dec: due to fly out of London at 3:40pm. Hope I'm feeling better.....<br />
<br />
Recognise my symptoms. Commit them to memory. This is a nasty little virus affecting many, many people in the community.<br />
<br />
Now - back to my wallowing.........<br />
<br />OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-89405691927867244492011-11-19T12:56:00.001-05:002011-11-19T14:26:33.712-05:00Window PainYes, I know that's not how you spell it! But in all fairness, our house windows were built the year the wheel was invented. Well, OK. Maybe I'm exaggerating a little. But they were the original windows from our 1959 house.<br />
<br />
Maybe in 1959 our windows were top of the line....nah. I don't think so. They were horrible double glass windows, that took fingers of steel to open and close. Whenever the wind blew, or it rained, they rattled and leaked. In fact, three of the windows were held together with hockey tape! Yes, they were a pain!<br />
<br />
Oh how I will miss those window pains!<br />
<br />
Last week we had new windows installed throughout the house. <br />
<br />
Hmm.... I'm terrible at grammar. I never learned grammar at school, and Im really disappointed about it.<br />
<br />
Maybe that sentence above should read:<br />
<br />
"We had new windows installed throughout the whole house last week"; or<br />
"Last week we installed new windows throughout the whole house".<br />
<br />
<i>[Groan]</i>....why is grammar so hard...!<br />
<br />
The new windows are awesome. No rattling. No leaking. They slide beautifully. They lock easily. I can see through them! Oh, how I love my new panes. Here are some before and after pics:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5gihEdJVIlY/TsgAXOwbwDI/AAAAAAAABlY/bruG3bijrww/s1600/diningold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5gihEdJVIlY/TsgAXOwbwDI/AAAAAAAABlY/bruG3bijrww/s320/diningold.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old dining room window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aa2x025WuMM/TsgAeu6qMLI/AAAAAAAABlg/lt5HzNNcQuQ/s1600/diningnew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aa2x025WuMM/TsgAeu6qMLI/AAAAAAAABlg/lt5HzNNcQuQ/s320/diningnew.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New dining room window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9bfW1k8gQ5k/TsgAopU8LhI/AAAAAAAABlo/PKxibzRZiqs/s1600/loungeold1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9bfW1k8gQ5k/TsgAopU8LhI/AAAAAAAABlo/PKxibzRZiqs/s320/loungeold1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old lounge room window (interior)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgx3Thcxpdo/TsgAyX5Uf5I/AAAAAAAABlw/RyW-N291emE/s1600/loungenew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgx3Thcxpdo/TsgAyX5Uf5I/AAAAAAAABlw/RyW-N291emE/s320/loungenew.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New lounge room window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZxHYViXTeQ/TsgA6RXgT7I/AAAAAAAABl4/absKDslt_pA/s1600/loungeold2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZxHYViXTeQ/TsgA6RXgT7I/AAAAAAAABl4/absKDslt_pA/s320/loungeold2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old lounge room window (exterior)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ev7NYkdh0Ug/TsgBG4DHfoI/AAAAAAAABmA/cyRw_7X6Nhk/s1600/loungenew2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ev7NYkdh0Ug/TsgBG4DHfoI/AAAAAAAABmA/cyRw_7X6Nhk/s320/loungenew2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New lounge room window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWGeBmwJrMI/TsgBY2WnxII/AAAAAAAABmI/UGkX_cc0x5E/s1600/officeold2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWGeBmwJrMI/TsgBY2WnxII/AAAAAAAABmI/UGkX_cc0x5E/s320/officeold2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old office window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMZ7c2I2xlU/TsgBg4iMBjI/AAAAAAAABmQ/W3iQcR6hrzA/s1600/officenew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMZ7c2I2xlU/TsgBg4iMBjI/AAAAAAAABmQ/W3iQcR6hrzA/s320/officenew.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New office window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My husband is a pain too, but he's not see-through :-)<br />
<br />OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-49163034831847919572011-11-16T09:47:00.001-05:002011-11-16T15:12:13.814-05:00Katia Triana LuxI've been resisting funky novelty yarn for.....oh, as long as I can remember.<br />
<br />
It's just "not me".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0K03gJ75R_Q/TsPOG3n4GrI/AAAAAAAABjo/90mnq-H8k_Y/s1600/Logo_Katia_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="81" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0K03gJ75R_Q/TsPOG3n4GrI/AAAAAAAABjo/90mnq-H8k_Y/s200/Logo_Katia_m.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
But now that I work one day a week at <a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/yarn.htm">Cotton-by-Post</a> (north London yarn shop), I walk past the Katia shelf umpty times a day. And I fondle the scarf that hangs there just as often! It's a magic scarf - and like a siren's song it lures me close to touch it.<br />
<br />
Last week, I broke down and bought three balls of the stuff. The scarf pattern is free with the yarn purchase. I decided (a) I should know how to knit it since customers ask, and (b) that my three nieces (aged 6, 7, and 8) should each have one for Christmas.<br />
<br />
I'd heard that the scarf was a "quick knit", and after the initial clumsiness and learning curve, it really was! I figure I could easily knit one in two hours! Yes. Two hours!<br />
<br />
So I made a little tutorial for how this yarn knits up into a scarf. The photos aren't brilliant, but I hope you get the idea.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BDxJyD5l-2A/TsPR0GHbQBI/AAAAAAAABj4/5T2btGRiNtk/s1600/triana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="162" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BDxJyD5l-2A/TsPR0GHbQBI/AAAAAAAABj4/5T2btGRiNtk/s200/triana.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katia Triana Lux; 100g; 30m (33yd);<br />
95% acrylic, 5% polyester; cold gentle machine wash,<br />
no dryer; no iron; <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">$13.99</span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
All you need is one ball of yarn per scarf and 7-8mm needles. I tried different needles, and the one I found easiest to use was my 8mm 16" bamboo circular. The addi turbo was too slick and slippery for the yarn. The 7.5mm Aero needles were simply too long and awkward.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iTEdtmRNugw/TsPVIzQ4HoI/AAAAAAAABkA/hRtfiQTTuU8/s1600/katia1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iTEdtmRNugw/TsPVIzQ4HoI/AAAAAAAABkA/hRtfiQTTuU8/s320/katia1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">16" 8mm bamboo circular needle, and<br />
Katia Triana Lux (colour #33 - lilac and purple with gold flecks)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The next step is to spread the yarn out and to figure out which end is the thinner one and which is the thicker.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xD3BO4tSC8Y/TsPV0YBxLOI/AAAAAAAABkI/FAFA8qGnclg/s1600/katia3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xD3BO4tSC8Y/TsPV0YBxLOI/AAAAAAAABkI/FAFA8qGnclg/s320/katia3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thin end at top; thick end at bottom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now for the cast on. Weave your needle into 8 of the top holes from <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">back to front</span></b> (this is important so you don't twist the stitches).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nbEqqsKwLyo/TsPWC0-o5XI/AAAAAAAABkY/_Ssybm8qdWM/s1600/katia4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nbEqqsKwLyo/TsPWC0-o5XI/AAAAAAAABkY/_Ssybm8qdWM/s320/katia4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weave 8 stitches onto the needle from<br />
back to front (don't worry about the edges)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This next step is a little awkward, but I found that if I held my mouth in just the right way, I could manage it! Once the 8 stitches are on the needle, turn your work in readiness to knit. Insert the needle into the first stitch.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gZsmB3LoKFg/TsPXbkA2W1I/AAAAAAAABkg/lWS_r2k2htA/s1600/katia6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gZsmB3LoKFg/TsPXbkA2W1I/AAAAAAAABkg/lWS_r2k2htA/s320/katia6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insert needle into first stitch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With your left or right hand (depending on which hand you hold the yarn in), spread out the yarn a little and look for the thin open loop at the top - the next one in line is the one you need. Yes, it feels clumsy at first, but you'll get the hang of it. Now knit the stitch as normal.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7A9_GLNm8Qk/TsPX71-iQpI/AAAAAAAABko/tUYCuN0Sd_k/s1600/katia7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7A9_GLNm8Qk/TsPX71-iQpI/AAAAAAAABko/tUYCuN0Sd_k/s320/katia7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Put the loop onto the needle and pull it through as if to knit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Knit all 8 stitches. This gets easier and faster the more you do it. I also found that the heavier the scarf became (= the more of it I knit and had on my needles), the easier it was to handle).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y8iRg1nnSh0/TsPYnKkfzAI/AAAAAAAABkw/qALfFhub9Yg/s1600/katia5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y8iRg1nnSh0/TsPYnKkfzAI/AAAAAAAABkw/qALfFhub9Yg/s320/katia5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First row completed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The whole scarf is knit in garter stitch (knit every stitch on every row).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now if you never listen to anything I ever write, please listen to this. Whenever you put this scarf down to go off and do something else, please, please, please, don't do as I did. <b>Put point protectors on both ends of the needle!</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Read that last sentence again OUT LOUD. Twice I put this <strike>rotten</strike> lovely scarf down, and twice the stitches somehow fell off. The first time, the ladder ran all the way to the start! Ugh! The second time, I was able to rescue the stitches, but lost about 18in worth of knitting. Ugh!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7YS8gbOfX4/TsPZzodsUTI/AAAAAAAABk4/vV5-WDGn98g/s1600/katia8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7YS8gbOfX4/TsPZzodsUTI/AAAAAAAABk4/vV5-WDGn98g/s320/katia8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Point protectors prevent the stitches coming off the needle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When you get to the end of the ball - well, within 20ins or so - cast off in the usual manner. Easy peasy!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And a final few thoughts. The yarn twists around as you knit, so frequently, you have to stop, put the knitting down (don't forget the needle point protectors!) and untwist the yarn. It's a little irritating, but since the project moves along so quickly, it's no biggie.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I actually enjoyed the knit. A photo of the first of my three scarves is below. I'm certain Emily will love it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 16px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMeltrupmA4/TsQYWqwD43I/AAAAAAAABlI/KniEoEHKUXY/s1600/emily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GMeltrupmA4/TsQYWqwD43I/AAAAAAAABlI/KniEoEHKUXY/s320/emily.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Emily's scarf. I used Katia Triana Lux<br />
(colour #32 -burgundy and cherry with gold flecks)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
EDIT: I just finished the second scarf for Jaycee. It only took me 1.5 hours! Sweet. Great for an emergency gift!<br />
<div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQTAcI9QnOY/TsQYuwZkSkI/AAAAAAAABlQ/Gg_M5AQBbjg/s1600/jaycee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQTAcI9QnOY/TsQYuwZkSkI/AAAAAAAABlQ/Gg_M5AQBbjg/s320/jaycee.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jaycee's scarf. I used Katia Trinia Lux<br />(colour #33 - lilac and purple with gold flecks)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-58544436995195235962011-11-07T11:25:00.001-05:002011-11-07T11:26:00.340-05:00Better to Be Born Lucky Than RichHow often have I heard this idiom. I've even used it on occasion. But when I'm saying it, it`s because good things happen to good people.<br />
<br />
In truth, I don't believe in "luck". I know I'm never going to be rich (monetarily speaking), and as for luck....the odds are 50/50.<br />
<br />
What I do believe is that "lucky" people, (not those who gamble and win), work hard, persevere, use good judgement, are committed, and meet opportunities head on. You know..."feel the fear, and do it anyway". In fact, I would go as far as to say that many successful people <b>create </b>their own opportunities. There is no luck involved. Preparation meets opportunity!<br />
<br />
Why am I babbling on in this way? Because I have an exciting announcement!<br />
<br />
<b>I am now a part-time employee (just for the winter) at <a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/yarn.htm">Cotton-by-Post</a>.</b><br />
<br />
I will be working at the store in the yarn department from 10am to 5pm on Fridays during winter. I will also be there on Friday nights from 5pm to 9pm for Friday Night Knitting.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5MRgzMOMXmo/TrgD4f2t6wI/AAAAAAAABjA/lVbC4OCm9jQ/s1600/friday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5MRgzMOMXmo/TrgD4f2t6wI/AAAAAAAABjA/lVbC4OCm9jQ/s320/friday.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some Friday night knitters (Suzanne, Helen, Laurie, Reina<br />and Alicia)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I`m really quite excited about the new job. Now I can check another dream off my list!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
And, in a related matter, on Sunday I was invited by Suzanne and Garnet (Cotton-by-Post owners) to accompany them to the <a href="http://www.diamondyarn.com/">Diamond Yarn</a> Open House in Toronto!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGD4PMs298Y/TrgEj93YkbI/AAAAAAAABjI/K8Bllj8wltA/s1600/shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YGD4PMs298Y/TrgEj93YkbI/AAAAAAAABjI/K8Bllj8wltA/s320/shop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Diamond Yarn, established in 1963, is the largest importer and wholesale distributor of <a href="http://www.diamondyarn.com/d/collections/">hand knitting yarn</a> in Canada with warehouses in both Toronto and Montreal.<br />
<br />
WHOA! You guys think <a href="http://www.romniwools.com/">Romni Wools</a> is the `mother ship`....it`s like a scout ship compared to Diamond Yarn. But of course, Diamond Yarn is only open to wholesalers, not the general public.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GRCXMYUPHRk/TrgFLLqZamI/AAAAAAAABjQ/63ULBtzl7rE/s1600/yarn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GRCXMYUPHRk/TrgFLLqZamI/AAAAAAAABjQ/63ULBtzl7rE/s320/yarn1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bloody lucky, aren't I? <i>[laughing out loud!]</i>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-73733022583846127062011-11-03T14:18:00.000-04:002011-11-03T14:18:44.019-04:00Cable SwatchingYou might remember my post yesterday (<a href="http://ozbambi.blogspot.com/2011/11/miserable-sod.html">can be found here</a>) where I wrote that I was swatching a cable pattern for the Rustic Jacket waist band.<br />
<br />
In that post, I stated that after much deliberation (in my cold-induced drugged out state) that I had settled on a viking cable from an Elsebeth Lavold sweater pattern. Well, after I knit the swatch and blocked it, I wasn't in love with it. Moreover, it was about an inch too wide.<br />
<br />
So I knit <b>two </b>more swatches; one in error because it seems that when I'm sick, my knitting brain goes on hiatus too!<br />
<br />
Below is a photo of the cable pattern I have chosen.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp6uOrYiDGw/TrLZPAsCejI/AAAAAAAABiw/ge_6aBGELLQ/s1600/swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp6uOrYiDGw/TrLZPAsCejI/AAAAAAAABiw/ge_6aBGELLQ/s320/swatch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alice Starmore; Interlaced Braid Cable</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At present I'm knitting the bottom half of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/issara">Issara</a> (a bulky weight coat). The bottom portion is all stockinette and rather boring.<br />
<br />
So now, I can alternate between the two projects!<br />
<br />
PS. Still sick, but feeling a little better :-)OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-29450560796566149232011-11-02T11:15:00.000-04:002011-11-02T11:15:02.605-04:00Miserable SodThat's me. I'm trying to stay focused and positive, but the common cold has a stranglehold that's pushing me to the brink of defeat. Sigh. Cough, cough!<br />
<br />
It's germ season again, and with the onset of the cooler weather and so much rain, germs are rampant. I don't normally succumb to a cold at this time of year. However, thinking back to the last few weeks of limited business at <a href="http://www.bloominbog.com/">The Bloomin Bog</a>, I would guesstimate that 75% of customers entered the shop with one kind of bug or another. One guy was coughing so badly, I swear he was hacking up a lung! And now I'M sick.<br />
<br />
So here I sit, forlorn and stuffed up. However, all is not forsaken! This morning has been productive in a knitterly way. Last week, I signed up for a KAL (knit-a-long) for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/recipe-for-a-rustic-jacket">Recipe for a Rustic Jacket</a> by Mona NicLeoid.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMRrjiqWyX0/TrFZ_yn2vkI/AAAAAAAABio/VKITFqvRWZA/s1600/rustic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMRrjiqWyX0/TrFZ_yn2vkI/AAAAAAAABio/VKITFqvRWZA/s320/rustic.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipe for a Rustic Jacket by Mona NicLeoid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
See the cable around the waist? Well, every knitter gets to search out the cable pattern she/he wants to knit for the waist band. After several hours of research last night, I narrowed my choices down to just two patterns.<br />
<br />
This morning, following what I am going to call "sleep" [ha, ha], I decided on a beautiful viking cable by Elsebeth Lavold in her <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sigrun">Sigrun</a> jacket pattern.<br />
<br />
To hell with work today! I'm sick. I'm gonna sit on the couch, cough and sniffle as required, swallow the drugs with reckless abandon, and start swatching my viking cable. Pics tomorrow!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-78839357700067530662011-10-31T10:14:00.001-04:002011-10-31T10:14:44.032-04:00Happy Halloween<b>Here's wishing you all a very ghoulish and happy Halloween!</b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xaYXC9syrgk/Tq6qtPU8NeI/AAAAAAAABiQ/CNxZqQmnvyQ/s1600/pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xaYXC9syrgk/Tq6qtPU8NeI/AAAAAAAABiQ/CNxZqQmnvyQ/s320/pumpkin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pumpkin carving efforts from last year!</td></tr>
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<br />
On another note, we have a winner in the quest for a bulky knit coat pattern!<br />
<br />
Drum roll and three cheers for...........<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/issara">ISSARA</a> by Anne Kuo Lukito</span><br />
<br />
Yes, it's rather uncanny that the name of this coat is similar to my name! Huh! It must be good! LOL.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ExMCdSouP4U/Tq6s1UfwIsI/AAAAAAAABiY/hYB_Bf9RTJA/s1600/issara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ExMCdSouP4U/Tq6s1UfwIsI/AAAAAAAABiY/hYB_Bf9RTJA/s400/issara.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Issara by Anne Kuo Lukito</td></tr>
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<br />OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-49346594346201462342011-10-30T13:31:00.000-04:002011-10-30T13:31:26.542-04:00The Good, the Bad and the UglyI'm an optimist, so let's start with the <b>GOOD</b>.<br />
<br />
Yesterday morning I finished the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/heather-hoodie-vest">Heather Hoodie Vest</a> I was working on. I'm delighted with the end result.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdQ0AF0LyL8/Tq18l4s0kWI/AAAAAAAABh4/OQ_fUDI5w_E/s1600/pp5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdQ0AF0LyL8/Tq18l4s0kWI/AAAAAAAABh4/OQ_fUDI5w_E/s320/pp5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pumpkin Pie Hooded Vest<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">Headwater Wool (Daina)<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
6 skeins = 984yds (899m)</div>
</span></span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rfRsr5kROF0/Tq18qwCoKzI/AAAAAAAABiI/ok72_AMBzNY/s1600/pp6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rfRsr5kROF0/Tq18qwCoKzI/AAAAAAAABiI/ok72_AMBzNY/s320/pp6.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />
And now for the <b>BAD</b>.<br />
<br />
Remember the wonderful <a href="http://www.briarrosefibers.net/">Briar Rose</a> "Robusta" yarn that was hand dyed for me in the "chocolate swirls" colourway? That yarn was for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harwood">Harwood</a> by Sarah Hutton. I've been frothing at the bit to knit this coat. So, yesterday afternoon I spent hours researching the project, making notes, charting the complex cable patterns (it's annoying when patterns aren't charted) and knitting the swatch. <br />
<br />
Last night I cast on the back. I knit about 5 inches before I took the time to really look at it. Oh, so disappointing. If I strained to see, I could just make out the beautiful cables! How frustrating. Maybe in the daylight it would look better.......<br />
<br />
No. It did not.<br />
<br />
So I ripped it back. Now I`m on a new <b>coat quest</b> to find a pattern suitable for this wonderful yarn.<br />
<br />
And lastly, the <b>UGLY</b>. Totally unrelated to knitting actually. I`d been having issues with blogger since I updated it. Today I spent the whole morning removing gadgets, trying new templates, changing the formatting and styles, and still my blog kept crashing. There was nothing for it but to update to the new look blogger, and upgrade to GOOGLE CHROME.<br />
<br />
I must say that Google Chrome is super fast, and so far so good. Having successfully wasted two hours sorting out the blog and IE, I`m now returning to my coat quest.OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-83025868900570339452011-10-27T10:51:00.000-04:002011-10-27T10:51:50.778-04:00A Few of my Favourite Things....and one NOTThe weather forcast for London, Ontario today is:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Cloudy, with a 40 percent chance of showers after lunch. <strong>High plus 5C</strong>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Mainly cloudy tonight, with a 40 percent chance of showers this evening and after midnight. Clearing overnight. <strong>Low minus 4</strong>.</span><br />
<br />
So, autumn is here, and that's that!<br />
<br />
For the most part, I love fall. And during this cooler weather, I enjoy most of my favourite things:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg2hf95Ag9w/Tqlrt7J0ftI/AAAAAAAABg8/vMNr3DjnnY8/s1600/cph2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg2hf95Ag9w/Tqlrt7J0ftI/AAAAAAAABg8/vMNr3DjnnY8/s320/cph2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knitting!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_A-YMBaWg4/Tqlr7CpmYrI/AAAAAAAABhE/yKRISm-PjRI/s1600/fruitnnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_A-YMBaWg4/Tqlr7CpmYrI/AAAAAAAABhE/yKRISm-PjRI/s320/fruitnnut.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlhecofzMZQ/TqlsBDlKBHI/AAAAAAAABhM/OB8qzTlMpdM/s1600/meatpie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OlhecofzMZQ/TqlsBDlKBHI/AAAAAAAABhM/OB8qzTlMpdM/s320/meatpie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baking meat pies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JAr7Q9IqPM/TqlsKVny8nI/AAAAAAAABhU/Nu2d2hVlejc/s1600/fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3JAr7Q9IqPM/TqlsKVny8nI/AAAAAAAABhU/Nu2d2hVlejc/s320/fireplace.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fighting for my spot by the woodstove!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tGlQZvULGdw/TqlshPycEyI/AAAAAAAABhc/TEKJw4ORbtc/s1600/trees2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tGlQZvULGdw/TqlshPycEyI/AAAAAAAABhc/TEKJw4ORbtc/s320/trees2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And autumn maple leaves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Amidst all this splendour, if nothing else other than to add a little balance, I present to you one of my NOT favourite things:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVzzUatNa9I/Tqls8NfqpiI/AAAAAAAABhk/tQoutgwG3MU/s1600/misalign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVzzUatNa9I/Tqls8NfqpiI/AAAAAAAABhk/tQoutgwG3MU/s320/misalign.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mis-aligned shoulder seaming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sigh. Sigh. Sigh. What's worse is that it's my own fault. Mis-aligned shoulders, how I loathe thee. I converted this pattern from knitting three pieces, to knitting in one piece. No biggie right? Usually, no. Once I got to the underarms, I separated my knitting. I knit the two fronts, and all was well. Then at the last minute, I decided to bind off two stitches at the underarm for a better fit. I did it on the back on both sides. What I totally forgot about was that I didn't do it for the front!! Argh! Hence the mis-aligned shoulders.<br />
<br />
Following a sleepless night, I awoke this morning proclaiming "who bloody cares!". I'm not ripping back to fix it. And to that annoying little voice in my head: SHUT UP!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-27709557038436592152011-10-22T18:33:00.002-04:002011-10-22T18:34:00.663-04:00Woodstock Fleece FestivalI spent a wonderful day today with two friends, <a href="http://balkanstyle.blogspot.com/">Nadine</a> and Colleen, at the <a href="http://www.fleecefestival.com/">Woodstock Fleece Festival</a>.<br />
<br />
We had an early morning start and were in the <a href="http://www.fleecefestival.com/photo_gallery/marketplace/marketplace.htm">marketplace</a> just after 9am. It was just the right amount of busy at that time - but two hours later, and it became quite claustrophobic! I almost had to start swinging my pointy elbows!<br />
<br />
I hadn't intended to buy anything (indeed I only took cash for entry, gas and lunch) - but isn't it always the way that when you don't have money you find everything you've been searching for - and when you do have money, you can't find a darn thing?<br />
<br />
So I had to break out the credit card....and on more than one occasion!<br />
<br />
Just look at the lovely things I got:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJzLasD7K88/TqM-Ll0G1TI/AAAAAAAABf0/xbmwwL4QbRA/s1600/tosh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJzLasD7K88/TqM-Ll0G1TI/AAAAAAAABf0/xbmwwL4QbRA/s320/tosh.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This photo isn't brilliant, but I have three gorgeous <br />
skeins of madelinetosh merino light <br />
in "tart", "glazed pecan" and "kale" colourways</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This kit is going to become <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/earth--sky">Earth and Sky</a> by Stephen West and will hopefully resemble something like this:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UCU8buH4Ik/TqNAC-Q_6_I/AAAAAAAABf8/DytTDBvzbe0/s1600/earthskyshawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UCU8buH4Ik/TqNAC-Q_6_I/AAAAAAAABf8/DytTDBvzbe0/s400/earthskyshawl.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Earth and Sky by Stephen West</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then I spotted the perfect companion yarns for some special <a href="http://www.tanisfiberarts.com/">Tanis Fiber Arts</a> Yellow Label DK that I picked up from <a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/yarn.htm">Cotton-by-Post</a> yesterday.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OeYOSGHXKtg/TqNA9MxmiKI/AAAAAAAABgE/DlbkHXwWG2U/s1600/tanislemongrass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OeYOSGHXKtg/TqNA9MxmiKI/AAAAAAAABgE/DlbkHXwWG2U/s320/tanislemongrass.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tanis Fiber Arts Yellow Label DK "lemongrass"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtxdHTWy_X8/TqNBNC_6S9I/AAAAAAAABgM/O8N1Uvw9gWA/s1600/shelridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtxdHTWy_X8/TqNBNC_6S9I/AAAAAAAABgM/O8N1Uvw9gWA/s320/shelridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelridge Farm DK Soft Touch "natural" and "black" colourways</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And whilst browsing the Shelridge Farm festival booth, I happened across the Paradoxical Mittens pattern by Lucy Neatby. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FZisFE2zuPk/TqNB6Y0ocYI/AAAAAAAABgc/5nycBT4Vb0o/s1600/paradoxicalmitts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FZisFE2zuPk/TqNB6Y0ocYI/AAAAAAAABgc/5nycBT4Vb0o/s320/paradoxicalmitts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'll use one skein of the Tanis Fiber Arts in the "lemongrass" colourway, and the skein of below.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHqQfkW4GoQ/TqNB2nmtcoI/AAAAAAAABgU/PL9DjD9FbA8/s1600/tanisteal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZHqQfkW4GoQ/TqNB2nmtcoI/AAAAAAAABgU/PL9DjD9FbA8/s320/tanisteal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tanis Fiber Arts Yellow Label DK "teal"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And as if this wasn't enough of a yarn frenzy, then I happened across a beautiful skein of <a href="http://www.wellingtonfibres.on.ca/">Wellington Fibres</a> yarn that will make a wonderful pair of mittens for my sister for Christmas.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rl0a8-CXP40/TqNDDUryJfI/AAAAAAAABgk/XI_mpmTvJBM/s1600/wellington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rl0a8-CXP40/TqNDDUryJfI/AAAAAAAABgk/XI_mpmTvJBM/s320/wellington.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wellington Fibres 3ply 50% Mohair/50% Wool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And lastly, I saw a magnetized pattern holder that I simply had to have. This will make my life so much easier when I knit at night.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DRc2V__DIG4/TqNDdWSSK5I/AAAAAAAABgs/a5-qKgSbhNg/s1600/patternholder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DRc2V__DIG4/TqNDdWSSK5I/AAAAAAAABgs/a5-qKgSbhNg/s320/patternholder.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magnetized Pattern Holder</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Although this next photo has nothing to do with the Woodstock Fleece Festival, it is blog worthy and yarn related. Cotton-by-Post sells these wonderful hand-crafted yarn bowls. They are made by <a href="http://issueswithknitting.blogspot.com/">Laurie's</a> Mum. Look how pretty my newest addition is:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-msinqUGWip4/TqNEMyaa2EI/AAAAAAAABg0/1fxlTe6OuSk/s1600/yarnbowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-msinqUGWip4/TqNEMyaa2EI/AAAAAAAABg0/1fxlTe6OuSk/s320/yarnbowl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pottery yarn bowl with cat motif</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And now? I'm broke! But happy!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-69355965717363104292011-10-20T18:15:00.000-04:002011-10-20T18:15:31.379-04:00Lever KnittingHave you ever heard of "Lever" knitting or "Irish Cottage" knitting?<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.yarnharlot.ca/">Yarn Harlot</a> knits this way. Below is a YouTube video of her knitting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/P51GByV0H2w?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />Lever knitting is generally used by people who knit for a living. It incorporates both speed and efficiency. Lever knitting is considered to be the most ergonomic way to knit, thus enabling knitters to knit up to 10 hours a day without fear of RSI (repetetive strain injury).<br />
<br />
The Lever knitting technique tends to result in a more uniform knitted fabric because both purling and knitting require small and similar hand movements.<br />
<br />
If you're interested, there's an excellent Lever knitting article by <a href="http://blog.sweetgeorgiayarns.com/2011/02/knitting-for-speed-efficiency/">sweetgeorgia</a>. It's a fascinating read. And other one by <a href="http://mavenknits.com/irish-cottage-knitting/">Maven Knits</a>.<br />
<br />
In the article by sweetgeorge, mention is made of the Yarn Harlot's workshop: "Knitting for Speed and Efficiency". If you haven't already done so, sign up for her workshop on Saturday, 21st January, 2012 at <a href="mailto:suzanne@cotton-by-post.com">Cotton-by-Post</a>.<br />
<br />
Lever knitting is all about how you tension the yarn and how you hold your right hand. As with most things there are a number of ways you can do it, and what suits one person, may be the archilles heel for another.<br />
<br />
Me? I'm finding it really awkward. This is quite possibly due to the fact that I'm a continental knitter and hold the yarn in my left hand. I will however persevere because I'd like to be able to knit with the yarn in either hand.<br />OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-51282480045786043452011-10-18T13:35:00.001-04:002011-10-18T16:58:11.792-04:00Yarn Harlot in London, Ontario?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZHmKMbEE_4/Tp2wMtjJ6AI/AAAAAAAABfc/Dv-Ubg59V2k/s1600/logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="81" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZHmKMbEE_4/Tp2wMtjJ6AI/AAAAAAAABfc/Dv-Ubg59V2k/s320/logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Be still my beating heart!!</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>I kid you not! This IS happening!</strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's the partial post from the Ravelry group </span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/yarn-harlot-fans/1866724/1-25#3"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yarn Harlot Fans</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Are we thrilled to have the Yarn Harlot come to lecture, teach and sign her
new book in January 2012? YOU BET WE ARE!!!</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">She will be coming to </span><a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Cotton-by-Post</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">, 21581 Richmond Street North, London,
Ontario.</span></em><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">_______________________________</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Suzanne and Garnet from Cotton-by-Post (corner Richmond Street and Medway Road) have invited Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (aka </span><a href="http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yarn Harlot</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">) to teach two classes on 21st and 22nd January, and to give a seminar and sign her new book <em>(<span id="btAsinTitle">All Wound Up: Yarn Harlot Writes for a Spin</span>)</em> on Friday evening, 20th January.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Her final schedule:</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><><><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
</>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AzV8H28mxjo/Tp2wcJ1xnkI/AAAAAAAABfk/ohRUXUj0gsk/s1600/yarnharlot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AzV8H28mxjo/Tp2wcJ1xnkI/AAAAAAAABfk/ohRUXUj0gsk/s320/yarnharlot.jpg" width="276" /></span></a></td></tr>
<><><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
</>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Stephanie Pearl-McPhee (Yarn Harlot)</span></td></tr>
<><><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></></tbody></table>
<br />
<ul><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Friday 20th January at 7pm: An Evening with Stephanie ($15.00 + HST)</span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">
Saturday 21st January (all day): Knitting for Speed and Efficiency (includes a light lunch) ($85.00 + HST) </span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">
Sunday 22nd January (all day): Liking Lace (includes a light lunch) ($85.00 + HST)</span></li>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><em>(6 hour classes with one hour for lunch)</em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: inherit;"><strong>If you register for both workshops, then the Friday evening seminar and book signing is only $5.00 + HST.</strong></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">How exciting is this????? WHOOT! WHOOT!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong><u>Registration</u>:</strong></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/"><strong>www.cotton-by-post.com</strong></a></span><a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/"></a></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBl4jaGKbGg/Tp22-wWLjaI/AAAAAAAABfs/QUGCI-gy-KM/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBl4jaGKbGg/Tp22-wWLjaI/AAAAAAAABfs/QUGCI-gy-KM/s320/books.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Ph: 519-518-6134</strong><br />
<br />
In Garnet's own words:<br />
<br />
</span><em><span style="font-family: inherit;">"</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">We really hope to have this event sold out and give everyone a taste of what we<br />
will be doing to bring teachers to London".<br />
</span></em>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-76887284645867746702011-10-17T11:41:00.000-04:002011-10-17T11:41:44.054-04:00Cat ShowYesterday I had the great fortune to attend the <a href="http://www.cca-afc.com/en/show_info/index.html">PAWSitive PAWS</a> Cat Club's Cat Show in London, Ontario. Even the <a href="http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/11/07/16017826.html">London Free Press</a> picked up the story!<br />
<br />
My lovely friend <a href="http://knitty-kat.blogspot.com/">Kat</a> suggested the outing, and it was wonderful indeed.<br />
<br />
So many beautiful breeds - each cage we peeked in brought silly-girl squeals of joy from us!<br />
<br />
I'll let the photos do the talking:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CtmSkRvt-w/TpxKlZEBdtI/AAAAAAAABeE/HQYV_Jrp5QQ/s1600/one.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CtmSkRvt-w/TpxKlZEBdtI/AAAAAAAABeE/HQYV_Jrp5QQ/s320/one.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maine Coon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m-LNN-sdweA/TpxKqPHKVcI/AAAAAAAABeM/QlSjO7_0uXI/s1600/burmese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m-LNN-sdweA/TpxKqPHKVcI/AAAAAAAABeM/QlSjO7_0uXI/s320/burmese.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burmese</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmlfj6lgiHo/TpxK51IOzII/AAAAAAAABeU/-8ez7Lu948c/s1600/cornish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmlfj6lgiHo/TpxK51IOzII/AAAAAAAABeU/-8ez7Lu948c/s320/cornish.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Devon Rex</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3EBJDK3kmk/TpxK_xTONBI/AAAAAAAABec/yL8PxYOPJEw/s1600/oriamese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3EBJDK3kmk/TpxK_xTONBI/AAAAAAAABec/yL8PxYOPJEw/s320/oriamese.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orniamise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo2R9lgcouk/TpxLEXGAQRI/AAAAAAAABek/r6tFmq5rJdI/s1600/ragdoll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mo2R9lgcouk/TpxLEXGAQRI/AAAAAAAABek/r6tFmq5rJdI/s320/ragdoll.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rag Doll</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-26GtiUzDc5Q/TpxLLww22FI/AAAAAAAABes/hm4zAuyQfg0/s1600/sphynx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-26GtiUzDc5Q/TpxLLww22FI/AAAAAAAABes/hm4zAuyQfg0/s320/sphynx.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sphynx</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4B0Nn0sDVqo/TpxLS0LY_ZI/AAAAAAAABe0/D3jFUmfHq9s/s1600/three.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4B0Nn0sDVqo/TpxLS0LY_ZI/AAAAAAAABe0/D3jFUmfHq9s/s320/three.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Persian</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D9ytDqi_Vx8/TpxLXjOHuXI/AAAAAAAABe8/lXZJy9JmVwc/s1600/twob.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D9ytDqi_Vx8/TpxLXjOHuXI/AAAAAAAABe8/lXZJy9JmVwc/s320/twob.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Himalayan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And then there was this:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iOTCDVdnBOk/TpxLeUgLJHI/AAAAAAAABfE/KPLp6FnHnCg/s1600/umbrella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iOTCDVdnBOk/TpxLeUgLJHI/AAAAAAAABfE/KPLp6FnHnCg/s320/umbrella.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's raining cats and dogs!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WnLcwKXw2r4/TpxLm1aZ73I/AAAAAAAABfM/Ax7BMt17Ydg/s1600/sandi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WnLcwKXw2r4/TpxLm1aZ73I/AAAAAAAABfM/Ax7BMt17Ydg/s320/sandi.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Sandi Pandi with her new toy and cat hammock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-1GgcbMxPo/TpxLxkeWFSI/AAAAAAAABfU/2Dl0nLqGufM/s1600/shelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-1GgcbMxPo/TpxLxkeWFSI/AAAAAAAABfU/2Dl0nLqGufM/s320/shelly.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Shelby Belby with his new toys</td></tr>
</tbody></table>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-81670974877186726532011-10-17T09:04:00.001-04:002011-10-17T09:04:21.003-04:00A New Look BlogMaybe is wasn't <b>necessary </b>to update my blog, but in all honesty, I hadn't given it a new coat of paint since 18th November, <strong>2007</strong>! The blog will basically stay the same with only a few modifications.<br />
<br />
I removed the word "violets" from my blog title because, truth be told, these days I only own one plant. Yes, African violets were a big part of my life from 2002 to 2007. Unfortunately, the ramant spread of evil, sap sucking super-insects, known as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thrips">thrips</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mealybug">mealybug</a>, saw the untimely demise of my fabulous collection. I replaced that addiction with an even better one. CHOCOLATE.<br />
<br />
Oh Cadbury......how I love thee.<br />
<br />
I added new sunshine yellow wallpaper to to my blog to dress up the old drab green paint. I think it's brightened up the whole place!<br />
<br />
And lastly, I added a few new gadgets (search, email notifications), and a shiny new blog banner.<br />
<br />
Change is good.OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-54440747299994401672011-10-16T09:09:00.000-04:002011-10-16T09:09:02.540-04:00A Change is Coming...Nothing is more certain in life than death and taxes (Benjamin Franklin) and change (me).<br />
<br />
I don't feel like I'm dying just yet, although, like many others, some days death would be easier....<br />
<br />
Since I own and operate a small business, I must confess that (and what better place to air my dirty laundry than in public?) I've been having a raunchy, very one-sided and often unexplicable affair with the tax man. I have decided that taxes are designed to keep me poor despite working 12 hours days and 7 days a week.<br />
<br />
And then there's change. Not too many of us relish change. I've often been heard uttering such things as "but, I don't want to change", or "it was just fine the way it was". Mind you, some change is good. And the change I'm working on this weekend is to my blog! Ha!<br />
<br />
Stay tuned...a change is coming....OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-68700634556586583292011-10-12T16:30:00.000-04:002011-10-12T16:30:08.233-04:00Signature PerformanceLast week, during a moment of total disregard for my finances, and in sheer terror, I clicked:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>Add to Cart</li>
<li>Check Out <em>(quickly before I change my mind)</em></li>
<li>Confirm Payment</li>
</ul><br />
It was done. No going back. I was soon to be the proud Mummy of a <a href="http://www.signatureneedlearts.com/">Signature</a> circular needle. Why the terror? Because it cost me $US40! Can you believe it? How frivolous! How wildly reckless! How insane! See what happens when I'm chocolate deprived??<br />
<br />
The postman delivered by new circular needle to me today. First impressions: it's so pretty! I wonder whether red really is faster?<br />
<br />
I immediately cast on a 20 stitch swatch with some worsted weight yarn.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="5" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8_aj_CZGN8/TpXrMXhf6PI/AAAAAAAABcI/kk7XYEn0r7o/s1600/addi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="5" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H8_aj_CZGN8/TpXrMXhf6PI/AAAAAAAABcI/kk7XYEn0r7o/s320/addi.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Six rows of stockinette using addi turbo</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dimosEYcRhc/TpXrbihBFpI/AAAAAAAABcQ/k6pa83yU6mE/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dimosEYcRhc/TpXrbihBFpI/AAAAAAAABcQ/k6pa83yU6mE/s320/signature.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Six rows of stockinette using signature</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2lYLu_3mS9k/TpXruY2ld9I/AAAAAAAABcY/5JDu88IedOM/s1600/swatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2lYLu_3mS9k/TpXruY2ld9I/AAAAAAAABcY/5JDu88IedOM/s320/swatch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up comparison</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Can you see a difference in the knitted fabric? <br />
<br />
From my perspective, the addi turbo is smoother and dare I say it....a little faster for me. The signature needle is fast, but the red coloured part is a "matt" finish and there is a slight resistance when knitting. I felt like I was knitting a little tighter with it. Perhaps I should have chosen the "stilhetto tip type"?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ggCZBc72mc/TpXs1cDNtAI/AAAAAAAABcg/kqc36ZU4chE/s1600/compare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="2" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ggCZBc72mc/TpXs1cDNtAI/AAAAAAAABcg/kqc36ZU4chE/s320/compare.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Comparing both needles....I like the longer needle length on the signature; it suits my hands and my continental style of knitting. The signature circ has a slightly sharper point which I like for cabling and K2togs. I really like its cable - there's a very smooth transition between the needle and the cable. The cable is also very soft and flexible. The addi turbo has a shorter needle length that sometimes results in my hands aching a little. There's a slight kink between the cable and the needle, and sometimes that requires more effort on my part to move stitches along the cable.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Signature Pros</u>:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Signature circulars let you pick your needle size, the point profile type, needle length to best fit your hand, needle length (overall point-to-point length) with cable, or even </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">choose a custom cable length.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Signature circulars are hand crafted, hand polished, and have an incredibly smooth, flexible and memory resistant cable.</span><br />
<br />
<u>Signature Cons</u>:<br />
<br />
The cost. $40 is a very high price for a circular needle.<br />
<br />
<u>Final Thoughts</u>:<br />
<br />
I'm glad I bought the signature needle in a 4.5mm size with a 32in cable and 8in needle length. It'll get a whole lot of use from it. <br />
<br />
However, I would probably <strong>not</strong> buy a Signature needle again unless they go on sale.OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-35026304873678761702011-10-01T20:05:00.000-04:002011-10-01T20:05:16.764-04:00The Fair Was Good To Me (Image Heavy)Or was I good to the Fair? Hmm... <em>[laughing]</em><br />
<br />
2011 marked the 160th anniversary of the <a href="http://www.ildertonfair.on.ca/">Ilderton Fall Fair</a>. To my thinking, such a monumental occasion deserved equal monumental input from me! So what did I do? I entered a <strong>whopping</strong> <strong>20 items</strong> in two categories! The "homecraft/knitting" division received 14 knitted items, and the "food department" received six goodies.<br />
<br />
This morning Barb and I shuffled through the Ilderton Fair's exhibit buildings expressing the appropriate oohs and aahs. We put on brave faces, but it was very c-c-c-cold! Under the main exhibit building is an ice arena! Brrrrr...<br />
<br />
My cold and red hands could barely hold the camera steady to take photos. My hot breath warmed my fingers enough to take the necessary 13 pictures! I won 15 ribbons in total - 9 x 1sts; 5 x 2nds; and 1 x 3rd!! Whoot!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vGZ-r7WEwjI/ToelIBTLBiI/AAAAAAAABbU/SBuRO2tzuek/s1600/babysurpjacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vGZ-r7WEwjI/ToelIBTLBiI/AAAAAAAABbU/SBuRO2tzuek/s320/babysurpjacket.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Surprise Jacket - 2nd</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ofNZq9bgu4g/ToelTk68P2I/AAAAAAAABbY/qCiK6OXcfOY/s1600/clepsydraset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ofNZq9bgu4g/ToelTk68P2I/AAAAAAAABbY/qCiK6OXcfOY/s320/clepsydraset.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clepsydra Hat & Mitts - 2nd</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0j75yC00Es/ToelbH6SsGI/AAAAAAAABbc/WJELVcjepTw/s1600/darkmarkscarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0j75yC00Es/ToelbH6SsGI/AAAAAAAABbc/WJELVcjepTw/s320/darkmarkscarf.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark Mark Illusion Scarf - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3Uhj07s7BE/ToeliaPkYZI/AAAAAAAABbg/HYV_2D9GLdM/s1600/feltboots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3Uhj07s7BE/ToeliaPkYZI/AAAAAAAABbg/HYV_2D9GLdM/s320/feltboots.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Felted Boots - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHX5eVNnRWo/ToelrsT77hI/AAAAAAAABbk/aBTMVF_kXcI/s1600/feltmittens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHX5eVNnRWo/ToelrsT77hI/AAAAAAAABbk/aBTMVF_kXcI/s320/feltmittens.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Felted Aran Mittens - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FgfTTHegfYA/Toelzc8qHoI/AAAAAAAABbo/bxyekgGfcpA/s1600/handtowel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FgfTTHegfYA/Toelzc8qHoI/AAAAAAAABbo/bxyekgGfcpA/s320/handtowel.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunflower Handtowel Topper - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DoNhMMcDpgM/Toel8d7EN7I/AAAAAAAABbs/LC-k_9-0TpU/s1600/ilenebag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DoNhMMcDpgM/Toel8d7EN7I/AAAAAAAABbs/LC-k_9-0TpU/s320/ilenebag.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ilene Bag - 2nd</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFfKer68wBM/ToemDoQu0fI/AAAAAAAABbw/r8Y2wHcmTOg/s1600/monkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFfKer68wBM/ToemDoQu0fI/AAAAAAAABbw/r8Y2wHcmTOg/s320/monkey.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunty Isa Monkey - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V8o9Bqv2_N8/ToemMC2vOqI/AAAAAAAABb0/u26meG0dFs8/s1600/raynashoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V8o9Bqv2_N8/ToemMC2vOqI/AAAAAAAABb0/u26meG0dFs8/s320/raynashoes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rayna Booties - 2nd</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CHFb2D0gdVI/ToemX5vwjAI/AAAAAAAABb4/94uE1LiheMw/s1600/seneca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CHFb2D0gdVI/ToemX5vwjAI/AAAAAAAABb4/94uE1LiheMw/s320/seneca.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seneca - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--MSYt03ZoZs/ToememGM5WI/AAAAAAAABb8/8ruous-C7tc/s1600/VBV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--MSYt03ZoZs/ToememGM5WI/AAAAAAAABb8/8ruous-C7tc/s320/VBV.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VBV (Very Best Vest) - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZUbOWUdIGU/ToempAMpKSI/AAAAAAAABcA/JzPwVDoxm1M/s1600/vickies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZUbOWUdIGU/ToempAMpKSI/AAAAAAAABcA/JzPwVDoxm1M/s320/vickies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Socks - Vickies - 1st</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66lP4n8Ys2I/ToemyCuWI1I/AAAAAAAABcE/boUPfEUeMIo/s1600/xmasball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-66lP4n8Ys2I/ToemyCuWI1I/AAAAAAAABcE/boUPfEUeMIo/s320/xmasball.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Xmas Ball - 3rd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I also got a 1st for my Eggs Florentine and a 2nd for my Maple Panne Cotta.<br />
<br />
So another Fair bites the dust [big heavy sigh]. Time for a little R&R. I'm pooped.OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-25750957924522372742011-09-25T11:57:00.000-04:002011-09-25T11:57:45.131-04:00Gorgeous Autumn SundayIt's been a long and busy business season, and now that things are winding down for water gardeners, I get to enjoy a little peace and quiet on a gorgeous Sunday afternoon in autumn.<br />
<br />
I have almost all I need. Sunshine. Chair. Knitting. The only thing that would make my afternoon complete.....somebody feeding me chocolate! Oh, wait. And a million dollars! LOL!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" border="3" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvoeRodX-No/Tn9NnPhNK3I/AAAAAAAABbQ/j_S6_maecns/s1600/knitting+25sept.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="2" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PvoeRodX-No/Tn9NnPhNK3I/AAAAAAAABbQ/j_S6_maecns/s400/knitting+25sept.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>Knitting socks (Vickies) for Mum </em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><em>for Christmas</em></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-24184671155608428062011-09-22T15:30:00.000-04:002011-09-22T15:30:04.846-04:00Farewell Sterly Whirly FluffsterIt was with very heavy hearts and tear filled eyes that Nick and I took Sterling, our 16 year old Himalayan cat to the vet this morning. He hadn't been eating or drinking for four days, and had withered away to just 4lb. Unfortunately, he had fluid on his lungs, a severe heart murmur, and a very large, and almost certain, cancerous tumour in his right kidney.<br />
<br />
We buried him in a memorial garden where my beloved Tallie (dec. 2006) lies. A lovely little concrete cat statue pays homage to his long and happy life.<br />
<br />
We will always love you Sterly and you will be missed. RIP.<br />
<br />
A tribute to you Sterly:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYpbCAumbDY/TnuJy5YrVKI/AAAAAAAABaw/Lj7lM2R_3oc/s1600/baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYpbCAumbDY/TnuJy5YrVKI/AAAAAAAABaw/Lj7lM2R_3oc/s320/baby.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 months old</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6BPuQ9RY1zQ/TnuJ06oK0hI/AAAAAAAABa0/Ltm5J_WnnNY/s1600/2yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6BPuQ9RY1zQ/TnuJ06oK0hI/AAAAAAAABa0/Ltm5J_WnnNY/s320/2yr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1qfwRsVgEQw/TnuJ2LCAe8I/AAAAAAAABa4/18mc9lf0V9Q/s1600/2andhalf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1qfwRsVgEQw/TnuJ2LCAe8I/AAAAAAAABa4/18mc9lf0V9Q/s320/2andhalf.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2.5 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-enrBwpvZjsw/TnuJ4K6D9aI/AAAAAAAABa8/n79Pivtf2os/s1600/6yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-enrBwpvZjsw/TnuJ4K6D9aI/AAAAAAAABa8/n79Pivtf2os/s320/6yr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VEqG65qUgCk/TnuJ5elJJSI/AAAAAAAABbA/m4hc_6H5wLc/s1600/10yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VEqG65qUgCk/TnuJ5elJJSI/AAAAAAAABbA/m4hc_6H5wLc/s320/10yr.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9 years old (together with Tallie)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RaYj8Sb28M/TnuJ7PDaewI/AAAAAAAABbE/aDEXpYwaaIw/s1600/11yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RaYj8Sb28M/TnuJ7PDaewI/AAAAAAAABbE/aDEXpYwaaIw/s320/11yr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">11 years old (together with Shelby)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-717RpqyxfmA/TnuJ8j7CoeI/AAAAAAAABbI/rEruIj_GRGk/s1600/12yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-717RpqyxfmA/TnuJ8j7CoeI/AAAAAAAABbI/rEruIj_GRGk/s320/12yr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCW78nkQteU/TnuJ-ZJ8muI/AAAAAAAABbM/eXvxCedORj0/s1600/15yr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCW78nkQteU/TnuJ-ZJ8muI/AAAAAAAABbM/eXvxCedORj0/s320/15yr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">15 years old (together with Shelby and Sandi)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-59158537793461481262011-09-21T20:49:00.000-04:002011-09-21T20:49:04.379-04:00I've Got BIG PlansFor Fall and Winter knitting that is!<br />
<br />
I'm not too sure where the inspiration came from...but I'm guessing a lot of it had to do with two fabulous gift certificates I received early this year - <a href="http://www.briarrosefibers.net/">Briar Rose Fibres</a> GC from my family (bless them) for my birthday, and <a href="http://www.colorsongyarn.com/">Colorsong Yarns</a> GC from my family (bless them again) for Christmas.<br />
<br />
I asked Chris from Briar Rose whether she could custom dye some <a href="http://www.briarrosefibers.net/index.php?p=catalog&parent=23&pg=1">Robusta</a> for me. Robusta is a highlander, bulky weight wool, with the same twist, loft and feel as Bluefaced Leicester. This yarn comes in massive 500 yds per 16oz skeins!<br />
<br />
Chris asked me for a colourway, and I simply said "chocolate swirls". Well, my chocolate swirls came in a big box, and if it hadn't of been yarn, I'd have eaten it!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnOq4WuGAAE/Tnp5RPS3yrI/AAAAAAAABao/_SWLjcHRiOk/s1600/robusta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnOq4WuGAAE/Tnp5RPS3yrI/AAAAAAAABao/_SWLjcHRiOk/s320/robusta.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Swirls; Briar Rose Robusta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have a very special project in mind for this yarn - <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/harwood">Harwood</a> by Sarah Hatton from the Rowan Studio 2 book. Harwood is a mid-thigh length, cabled, long-sleeve jacket with pockets and five buttons. Remember the buttons I bought at the Kitchener/Waterloo Knitters' Fair??? Yeah!<br />
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It took me a little longer to decide on yarn from Colorsong Yarns. But once I found <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/killorglin">Killorglin</a> by Carol Feller from the Contemporary Irish Knits book, my choice was much easier. Killorglin is slim-fitting ribbed jacket utilizing interweaving ribs on the front and back to create a sophisticated and complicated-looking jacket. A high collar and zipper closure finish the piece very neatly. It's knit from the top down in one piece, the sleeves are picked up afterwards and set in sleeves are worked using short rows.<br />
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My yarn choice for this jacket is <a href="http://www.colorsongyarn.com/yarns/fleece_artist/blue_face_leicester/bfl_aran_125.htm">Fleece Artist Blue Face Leicester Wool</a>, aran weight. This yarn is 100% Blue Face Leicester Wool; 185m/202.3yds; 125g/4.4oz. Since this jacket is so amazing, I wanted a semi-solid colour that simply screams out "look at me"! I chose <a href="http://www.google.ca/imgres?q=blue+faced+leicester+yarn+ruby+red&um=1&hl=en&sa=N&tbm=isch&tbnid=j7ZSqllCpNYhiM:&imgrefurl=http://blog.colorsongyarn.com/%3Ftag%3Dfingering&docid=kSdir-VpTJJbcM&w=450&h=225&ei=PX56TuvBLsfe0QH_2LHEAg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=644&vpy=479&dur=4098&hovh=159&hovw=318&tx=221&ty=66&page=3&tbnh=87&tbnw=174&start=58&ndsp=29&ved=1t:429,r:25,s:58&biw=1421&bih=784">Ruby Red</a>!<br />
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In addition to these two jackets, I have taken a shine to <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/28-vihervaara--huppari---greengable--hoodie">GreenGable Hoodie</a> by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/mari-muinonen---tikru"><span style="color: black;">Mari Muinonen/ Tikru</span></a> which was published in Vogue Knitting Fall 2008. GreenGable Hoodie is a cabled, hooded pullover. I purchased the yarn for this sweater at the recently attended Kitchener/Waterloo Knitting Fair.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wnPuHVileE/TnqBeLq3-bI/AAAAAAAABas/CIVqR8Hjt1k/s1600/headwaterdiana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2wnPuHVileE/TnqBeLq3-bI/AAAAAAAABas/CIVqR8Hjt1k/s320/headwaterdiana.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Headwater Wool, Bulky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>And then I purchased a bag of Galway Heathers worsted yarn from <a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/yarn.htm">Cotton By Post</a>, with <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tinder">Tinder</a> by Jared Flood in mind. Tinder is fitted and textured jacket with six buttons.<br />
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What was I thinking?? Three jackets and one sweater over Fall/Winter! AND in between all that, a trip home to Australia! Whoot!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-26612984586025377902011-09-11T16:49:00.000-04:002011-09-11T16:49:17.015-04:00Yarn Love at The Knitters' FairWe'd waited all year, and even counted down the sleeps! Finally the day arrived - the <a href="http://www.kwknittersguild.ca/fair/">Kitchener/Waterloo Knitters' Fair</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://issueswithknitting.blogspot.com/">Laurie</a> very kindly agreed to drive again this year, and her carful was rounded out with Barb, Lynn and I.<br />
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As in previous years, the fair did not disappoint in terms of <a href="http://www.kwknittersguild.ca/fair/vendors/">vendors</a>, yarn and fibre. The halls were abuzz with frenzied shoppers, shopping bags and yarn and fibre love.<br />
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I had a mission this year. I'd done my research and was prepared with two patterns requiring yarn, and a list of accessories. Disappointingly, many of the items on my list were not were not crossed off (stitch markers, addi turbo natura bamboo circs, shawl pin). It's not that these things weren't available at the fair....I just didn't like what was available, or the size I wanted wasn't there.<br />
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I was also keen to find some bulky yarn for a cable-rich <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/28-vihervaara--huppari---greengable--hoodie">hoodie</a> that I'd fallen in love with from the Vogue 2008 Fall magazine. There was so much yarn at the fair, but a lot of it was heavily variegated and simply not suitable for cables. Some semi-solid colourways would have worked, but quantity was short......<br />
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Finally I found <a href="http://www.needlegnome.com/">The Needle Gnome</a>, suppliers for <a href="http://www.headwaterwool.com/YarnDetail.aspx?row_num=10">Headwater Wool</a>. Their yarn is 100% Romney wool and made in Latvia. The perfect yarn for the hoodie.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMf3FDxmkXA/Tm0XvfcPPCI/AAAAAAAABaQ/u7m7rriGRJI/s1600/headwaterdiana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMf3FDxmkXA/Tm0XvfcPPCI/AAAAAAAABaQ/u7m7rriGRJI/s320/headwaterdiana.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Romney Wool; Mustard Seed.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkBkAKoKBY0/Tm0cqcxw3FI/AAAAAAAABaU/sq4oYFKqhZM/s1600/buttons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WkBkAKoKBY0/Tm0cqcxw3FI/AAAAAAAABaU/sq4oYFKqhZM/s320/buttons.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The perfect buttons for a car coat project I'll be starting soon!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1AQwvpKy6eE/Tm0c4oRa_QI/AAAAAAAABaY/3rceFvKQlz8/s1600/blackwelsh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1AQwvpKy6eE/Tm0c4oRa_QI/AAAAAAAABaY/3rceFvKQlz8/s320/blackwelsh.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another skein of Black Welsh Mountain Sheep Wool. Now I can make mittens to match the hat from last year.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_ULO8xlafk/Tm0dO7B_IEI/AAAAAAAABac/OZP7LpTrdHg/s1600/needles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a_ULO8xlafk/Tm0dO7B_IEI/AAAAAAAABac/OZP7LpTrdHg/s320/needles.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some circular needles; though not in the size I required.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IROC1SDisyk/Tm0dcvSH8LI/AAAAAAAABag/1VyxaBDqH0g/s1600/soak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IROC1SDisyk/Tm0dcvSH8LI/AAAAAAAABag/1VyxaBDqH0g/s320/soak.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some more fabulous SOAK for my wool washing. And a new foot lotion...it's cucumber and smells yummy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
And to top things off - on Sunday I received a call from a friend to say that she knew a woman who'd been knitting her whole life and wanted to destash entirely! What was I to do, but go over and see what she had! I came home with about 5% of what was there:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05SUAeB46Vw/Tm0d0Fgy19I/AAAAAAAABak/2vze3E0EcCo/s1600/haul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05SUAeB46Vw/Tm0d0Fgy19I/AAAAAAAABak/2vze3E0EcCo/s320/haul.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% wool from Norway! This lot is mostly worsted, and only $2 a ball!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Sweet!OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2292721184099176384.post-65308086341886085282011-09-08T14:01:00.000-04:002011-09-08T14:01:44.386-04:00London International Quilt Festival - The Quilts of Hawaii<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The London International Quilt Festival is a one week event which takes place every August at the London Convention Centre, 300 York Street, London, Ontario.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The Festival focuses on bringing the culture and history of different countries/regions of the world to London. This is achieved by having, not only quilts and fibre art from the visiting country, but also the artists who create some of the quilts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Each year the workshops offered reflect the artists' concept of their country in fabrics, embellishments and techniques.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This year the quilt show celebrated "The Quilts of Hawaii". <!--StartFragment -->There were over 125 Hawaiian quilts on exhibit. Local quilts and fibre art were on display as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My part in this show was to set up and look after the </span><a href="http://www.cotton-by-post.com/yarn.htm"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Cotton By Post</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> fibre and yarn booth.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The event was simply amazing. I'll let the photos below tell the story.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fnNPZgW1yk/TmkAWiTcgaI/AAAAAAAABZw/5txgDv9T_gI/s1600/yarn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fnNPZgW1yk/TmkAWiTcgaI/AAAAAAAABZw/5txgDv9T_gI/s320/yarn1.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Cotton By Post Yarn Booth</strong></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aer_Mpa3fno/TmkAoZ9zYQI/AAAAAAAABZ0/H3AXJS8Y4HQ/s1600/yarn2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aer_Mpa3fno/TmkAoZ9zYQI/AAAAAAAABZ0/H3AXJS8Y4HQ/s320/yarn2.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Close up of the Fleece Artist and Hand Maiden display</strong></span></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0Id9FStym4/TmkA22UFy0I/AAAAAAAABZ4/PNTaK2bdgKc/s1600/quilt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0Id9FStym4/TmkA22UFy0I/AAAAAAAABZ4/PNTaK2bdgKc/s320/quilt2.jpg" width="214" /></strong></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KNI5uP9iz8/TmkA9UYjL2I/AAAAAAAABZ8/PjXUwOoNCkM/s1600/quilt3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KNI5uP9iz8/TmkA9UYjL2I/AAAAAAAABZ8/PjXUwOoNCkM/s320/quilt3.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKNJ0lUfrG4/Tmj_sRgzDNI/AAAAAAAABZs/l9bxj746Hoc/s1600/quilt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKNJ0lUfrG4/Tmj_sRgzDNI/AAAAAAAABZs/l9bxj746Hoc/s320/quilt1.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></td></tr>
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6BxPJ1upM5w/TmkBBuOPhBI/AAAAAAAABaA/n5WQFAvda8o/s1600/quilt4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6BxPJ1upM5w/TmkBBuOPhBI/AAAAAAAABaA/n5WQFAvda8o/s320/quilt4.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KDNQFg8XhAw/TmkBFOF-KBI/AAAAAAAABaE/Q4t4wSNhIBE/s1600/quilt5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KDNQFg8XhAw/TmkBFOF-KBI/AAAAAAAABaE/Q4t4wSNhIBE/s320/quilt5.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlvgqLEiEA0/TmkBN6voxEI/AAAAAAAABaI/eHI3E2LWZuQ/s1600/quilt6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlvgqLEiEA0/TmkBN6voxEI/AAAAAAAABaI/eHI3E2LWZuQ/s320/quilt6.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xTdfPd5gfsU/TmkBVdgKnLI/AAAAAAAABaM/vDZCFKJ10B0/s1600/quilt7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xTdfPd5gfsU/TmkBVdgKnLI/AAAAAAAABaM/vDZCFKJ10B0/s320/quilt7.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Amazing huh? Next year promises to be even better with the theme being "Canadian"!</span></span>OzBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04405287299000183343noreply@blogger.com0