tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79396202305598810812024-03-13T11:03:34.793-04:00Blue Skies Dragonflieslove, life & inspirationBlue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.comBlogger263125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-30553386003896623802015-01-19T15:51:00.002-05:002015-01-19T15:51:22.269-05:00Week #3, Sort & Organize Fabric Bins...<div abp="166">
This week, for me, will be a piece of cake as my fabric stash pales in comparison with my yarn stash. </div>
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As of now, I have an 18 gallon tub (stuffed full), a box, & a bag recently gifted to me by a friend...</div>
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My goal will be to whittle it down, so that it fits into the one 18 gallon tub. I am going to use the same mindset that we used with yarn in week #1. Take each piece, unfold it, feel it, inspect it. Then ask yourself our same one simple question... "Do I love this fabric??" If the answer is no, then it goes into the purge tub/box....</div>
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I am keeping a few things in mind though, as I sort, which may be saving graces for some of these pieces.</div>
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1) I have a box in the closet of pieces I for a quilt I am making our daughter. So, if a piece isn't "my style" I will ask myself is she would love it. These will go into the box of quilting bits (NOT into the "Fabric-I-LOVE Tub")</div>
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2) I make eye pillows for my Etsy shop. So, again, if a piece isn't "my style" would is it both thick & soft enough to use for these pillows?? Is it large enough to get @ least one eye pillow out of?? IF so, then these, again, will NOT go in the "Fabric-I-Love Tub", but rather in some sort of other basket/box, to use solely for these eye pillows.</div>
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<em abp="179">(Fabrics that lie to see another day by fitting into this category will be given an expiration date. I tend to make ~20 pillows every couple of months, so perhaps 3 months for the lot??)</em> </div>
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3) Is it worth passing on?? If not, I have a trash bag that I use solely for scraps. This trash bag bits will eventually become the 'stuffing' for <a abp="183" href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2013/11/how-to-square-floor-cushion/" target="_blank">this</a> cool little ottoman from "<a abp="725" href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/" target="_blank">Made by Rae</a>".</div>
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*BUT* other than that, they must be really & truly LOVED by me to stay in the house. </div>
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Now, as I said, this will *not* take me a week. I am thinking two days tops... So what of the rest of the week?? </div>
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Well, I am going to sort through my WIP's (work-in-progresses)...all of them. If I am no longer feeling that project, it goes. If I really, truly think I might finish it, it can stay...for now, *BUT* will get an expiration date. If it isn't finished before that expiration date, it really must go. Again, I am not sure about the expiration dates, as I am not entirely sure what sort of WIPs are laying around, but none will be by with more than a year.</div>
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What are you working on this week...?</div>
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Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-54189575752300987732015-01-09T21:09:00.002-05:002015-01-09T21:11:18.248-05:00Week #2, Patterns, what to do...?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The thing about crafting, especially with the lovely accessibility of the Internet, is that there are so many amazing patterns out there! Indeed, so many lovely patterns, so little time.... And that is how *this* begins...<br />
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The other side of the story is that <i>we</i> change...our skill level changes, our tastes change, our expectations change, our motivational level changes, as does our confidence level... That is why we (need to) do things like this periodically, 'cleanse' our stashes...and this week, our patterns. :)<br />
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First up, a brief rundown of how I organize my patterns:<br />
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My patterns are currently organized into a two part system. Part one is a "staging area"...this would be the part of my system that needs some serious attention this go round. I have patterns in piles, on clipboards, bulletin boards, & in ziploc bags... It is relatively neat & tidy, yes, but not really easy to find a particular pattern that I *know* I have...<i>some</i>where. <br />
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This week, I am upgrading my system, just a smidge... I have taken a few manilla folders (as that is what I have on hand) & taped closed the open side & the bottom to create a 'closed' folders. On the tab, I have labeled the folders 1) "yes!" for projects I definitely want to make, 2) "yes! but need yarn" for projects that I love, but do not currently have yarn in stock for, 3) "maybe"...I'll have to make the final call come next January (if not before).<br />
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Any patterns that I am no longer interested in will get put in a folder/envelope & offered up to fellow crafters.<br />
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Let me take a moment to tell you a sweet little secret that may help you decide, if you're on the fence for some of your patterns. Look them up on Ravelry! For me, I don't bother with any pattern that receives less that 4 stars. *Unless* I really, really like it, then I will look through the projects & see why they didn't like it. Was it really the pattern's fault...?<br />
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Part two of my storage is housed in two, 3" binders, one is for "Knitting/Crochet"-ing patterns, the other is for sewing patterns. These are the <b>final destinations</b> for my patterns, as in once an item has been crafted, I file the pattern (assuming it is one that I can envision myself ever making again ;).<br />
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Each binder has dividers, marking off each category...<br />
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For the Knitting/Crocheting binder, here are my categories:<br />
*vests <br />
*tunics<br />
*sweaters <br />
*head <br />
*neck <br />
*feet <br />
*bottoms<br />
*softies/plushies<br />
*play food<br />
*doll clothes/accessories<br />
*dress-up<br />
*cleaning (towels, washclothes, scrubbies, etc)<br />
*carry-all (bags, totes, cozies, etc)<br />
*home comfort<br />
*"other"<br />
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Sewing categories are pretty similar, but more general (because I do A LOT more knitting/crocheting! ;) So things likes, toys, accessories, home, baby, etc... Do what works for you...<br />
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Pretty simple, right??<br />
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Now for the sorting...I mentioned how I handle copied/printed patterns, but what about books & magazines. For these, I will take them each, one @ a time & look through the patterns, jotting down page numbers for those I like on a post-it that will get stuck to the cover of the book/magazine.<br />
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From there, each pattern will get looked up on Ravelry. If it meets my 4 star minimum, then I will make a copy of it & file it as above. I say this because I don't foresee myself keeping many of the books/magazines. I did a bit of poking around when I was formulating the plan of organizing/destashing patterns & I think I liked three or four patterns tops per source. I am assuming part of those will get weeded out via Ravelry. As my end goal is space & freedom from 'stuff', it isn't worth it for me to keep an entire book for two patterns.<br />
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I am still trying to decide what to do with this guy... It's a super organized, but extremely *overstuffed* file folder of templates... This may need to move to the one empty drawer in our real, wooden file cabinet. (Or) maybe I can hunt down another 3" binder & divide my sewing patterns between the two, placing templates in with their patterns?? Well, week two begins on Monday, so I've got a bit of time to figure out the details...<br />
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Connecting the dots...<br />
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If you were (brutally) honest as you went through your stash, you may notice that both ditching things & being honest with yourself, get easier with practice.<br />
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Another perk about going through patterns right after sorting & organizing our yarn is that we now what we have a pretty good mental inventory of what yarn we have in stock. As we sort through patterns, I am going to guess that we'll know off hand which yarns would be perfect for which patterns.<br />
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See, it really is all connected... ;)<br />
<br />Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-68416331916669714172015-01-06T16:14:00.002-05:002015-01-06T16:15:44.316-05:00Destashing, phase two...the "PURGE" tub.I don't know about you, but I am LOVING this!! I feel so much free-er already, and the more I purge, the better I feel & the more strict I find myself becoming. I am really taking a good look @ anything & everything...<br />
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For now though, I am working hard to stay *focused* on this week's mission, destashing my yarn, but my MINIMALIST eyes are *wide open* & totally scoping it all out...<br />
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Here is the update from my end...<br />
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I am super stoked!! I went from three *bulging* tubs, that would ONLY close if another heavier <i>some</i>thing was set on top of them, to three tubs, each with modest quantities of delicious yarns in them (between half and three quarters full) & one *overflowing* "purge" tub!!<br />
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Never before has my stash been under such scrutiny as it was this week & never before have I been so brutal. No, brutal isn't quite the right word...honest, with both these yarns & myself.</div>
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At any rate, I am riding high right now & ready to finish line this thang!! So, let's discuss the handling of our "purge" tub.</div>
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Here's my plan (aka what I will be doing tomorrow!). Dump it all out & investigate what you have. I am guessing mine is going to be a pretty random mix of acrylics, wools & wool blends; some partial skeins, some whole skeins, some multiple skeins; some with labels & some unknowns.<br />
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My first order of business will be to seek out any <i>itchy</i> 100% wool yarns, those will go into a pile & will become dryer balls. ;)<br />
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I may list a few on Etsy/Ravelry... Perhaps I can make a bit of dough to put towards <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/needles/Options_Interchangeable_Caspian_Circular_Knitting_Needle_Set__D91078.html" target="_blank">this sweet needle set</a> I am going to splurge on. <i>Our family didn't really do "mom/dad" gifts this year, and my husband & I didn't get gifts for each other either, so this will be my 'late-Christmas/awesome-job-destashing' gift. ;) </i>BUT, as <b>freedom</b> in my end goal, I have put some thought into which yarns would even qualify for this option...<br />
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1) It must be quality yarn,<br />
2) It must be 2+ full skeins/a more expensive yarn ($20+) <i>complete with labels</i> <br />
3) Each yarn listed will be stored in a separate "for sale/trade" tub & each have an <b>expiration date of 1 year</b>. As in if it/they are still around next January, they *must* be gifted/donated.<br />
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From there, I am going to see if I can put together any sort of 'sets'... Perhaps a "pinks" set or maybe "neutrals"....maybe it'll be more by type, "superwash merinos"...? I honestly have no idea right now, but if anything comes of this part, I really want to do a couple of blog giveaways. Wouldn't that be fun?? <i>Actually, I am wondering if it would be or not...what if you are all hard core destashing along with me, should I play the part of the 'virtual temptress'?? </i><br />
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Anything that doesn't "fit" anywhere else will be offered up for grabs on our local homesteaders site/donated to a local thrift store. <br />
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How is <i>your</i> destashing going?? Remember to rock out @ *YOUR* own pace. This is YOUR journey, own 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/-U5-wIBduDbA/VKxE8JtoSvI/AAAAAAAAGD0/N1KBwDDBRk0/s1600/street_art_yarn_crochet_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U5-wIBduDbA/VKxE8JtoSvI/AAAAAAAAGD0/N1KBwDDBRk0/s1600/street_art_yarn_crochet_1.jpeg" height="208" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo credits, <a href="http://streetartutopia.com/">streetartutopia.com</a></td></tr>
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PS. Don't forget to join in on our "<a href="http://blueskiesdragonflies.blogspot.com/2015/01/15-in-2015-knittingcrochet-project.html" target="_blank">*15* in 2015: A Knitting/Crochet Challenge</a>". We are already up to *15* members on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1521010484839760/" target="_blank">facebook group</a>, too perfect, right?? ;)<br />
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Back @ the end of December, with the New Year so close @ hand, there were all sorts of "challenges" popping up on facebook, pinterest, etc. A few I am joining in on. The "<a href="http://www.home-storage-solutions-101.com/organized-home.html" target="_blank">52 weeks to an Organized Home Challenge</a>", the "<a href="http://www.goodshomedesign.com/52-week-money-saving-challenge/" target="_blank">52 Weeks Money Challenge</a>", and the (50 books this year) "<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/199917670934599119/?fb_ref=205547307901387574%3A1d7fc77ead4a6f9a4509" target="_blank">Ultimate Reading Challenge</a>". While those are all great & wonderful...my "thing" is crafting. I did a bit of poking around online to find a cool knitting/crocheting challenge, and while I did see loads of knit-alongs, I didn't find any sort of fun year long challenge. So, I made one...ha!</div>
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*15* in 2015... Fun, quirky, inspiring, challenging, but I don't think too overwhelming, as *YOU* actually pick the projects, based on where you are. While I didn't have too much trouble coming up the initial 15, I wanted to include 5 "Bonus" projects, for those who really rock out. Unfortunately, my brain was done...ideas were getting lame... If you have any project ideas, please post them!!<br />
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You DO NOT have to go in order. You DO NOT, technically, have to craft 15 *different* projects. If you can meet two or three of the 'challenges' with one AMAZING amazing project, mad props to you!!<br />
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As you work your way through the list, post photos on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1521010484839760/" target="_blank">facebook group page</a>. Be sure to let us know which "challenge(s)" they meet.<br />
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Without further ado...the magical <b>*15* for 2015</b>!!<br />
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1. Knit/crochet a project for charity. (There are a lot of *free* patterns online/Ravelry!)<br />
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2. Knit/crochet a *set*. (This could be coasters, a hat & scarf, nesting bowls, etc...you choose!)<br />
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3. Knit/crochet a project that uses more than 500 yds.<br />
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4. Knit/crochet a project using colors you have NEVER combined before.<br />
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5. Knit/crochet a project that is TINY.<br />
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6. Knit/crochet a project that is ridiculous (it can be ridiculously AWESOME!)<br />
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7. Knit/crochet a *pair*. (This could be socks, mitts, mittens, gloves, slippers, pants, etc...you choose!)<br />
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8. Knit/crochet a project that involves learning a new technique.<br />
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9. Knit/crochet a project that scares you, just a little. (You know what you have been avoiding...a sweater using fingering weight yarn, fair isle, socks, cables/bobbles...this is the time to go for it!!)<br />
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10. Knit/crochet a project that you have been wanting to make for forever, but haven't.<br />
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11. Knit/crochet a project that uses *1* skein.<br />
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12. Knit/crochet a project that can be part of a costume. (There are so many fun ones on Ravelry!!)<br />
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13. Knit/crochet a project inspired by a book, tv show, or movie.<br />
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14. Knit/crochet a project using a yarn that has been in your stash for way too long.<br />
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15. Knit/crochet a project that is oversized/GINORMOUS! (Again, look on Ravely. I have seem patterns for giant strawberries, olives, clouds, etc. (or) go crazy & knit/crochet a blanket!)<br />
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Ready....set....go!Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-43130205640236888632015-01-02T10:27:00.001-05:002015-01-07T14:39:54.779-05:00Week #1, Mastering our Stashes...And so it begins...this one to the tune of "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QTj45cTB4U" target="_blank">The Garden Song</a>", by Arlo Guthrie<br />
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"Tub by tub, skein by skein...gonna rein in this yarn thang,<br />
Gonna clear some of it out, 'cause simplifying's what it's about..."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bwNHSW_FtnU/VKa2epvdHRI/AAAAAAAAF-U/qcFzOU03cyU/s1600/IMG_7231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bwNHSW_FtnU/VKa2epvdHRI/AAAAAAAAF-U/qcFzOU03cyU/s1600/IMG_7231.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">large & in charge...my current stash...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qhHJyqXAsXQ/VKa2xoHa91I/AAAAAAAAF-k/m2ocLk5esPY/s1600/IMG_7230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qhHJyqXAsXQ/VKa2xoHa91I/AAAAAAAAF-k/m2ocLk5esPY/s1600/IMG_7230.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a side view...you can see there is little to *no* wasted space...ha!</td></tr>
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Yeah...I am so excited about my year of decluttering/organizing/minimalizing that I wrote a few bars. Maybe you'll catch the bug too, who knows, right?<br />
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I figured I would post each week's challenge the Friday before, as I have some friends who want to follow along with me. (How cool is that?!?) <br />
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I will preface this all with a bit of introduction. My methods are very methodical & detailed, if they don't work for you, that is totally fine, take what bits do feel right, use them & leave the rest. For this week's focus, destashing/organizing yarn, I cannot recommend <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/account/login" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> highly enough. It is an absolutely amazing site & a godsend for keeping tabs on what you have in your stash. You upload photos, dates, prices...the database keeps it all organizing by color. *BUT* you can search your stash based on weight (fingering, dk, bulky, etc), on fiber content (100% wool, wool blend, contains wool, etc) & more. And that is only the beginning...<br />
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Ravelry has loads of free patterns for both knitters & crocheters, as well as patterns for purchase. You can search for patterns by size, gender, type of garment/item, techniques used, etc. Click on any pattern & you can see any projects made from that pattern, see reviews (based on a 5 star rating system), get yarn ideas, and more. Honestly, I could go on & on about ravelry, I LOVE it!! However, that is *not* the subject of this post.<br />
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Ok...your stash. Mine was uploaded to Ravelry a few years back. It does take a bit of time, depending on the size of your stash, but once you get it in there it is magic *AND* once it's in there, you simply add yarn as you go, which is much more manageable.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">about 4 years ago when my sister & i created my ravelry stash...not the much smaller scale of overflow in this photo. ;)</td></tr>
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As far as physical storage, I have three, 18 gallon tubs, organized by rainbow color order. The pink one is ROY (red, orange & yellow), the blue-green one is GBV (green, blue, & violet) & the dark blue one has whites, browns, grays, blacks & any multi-colored skeins. That is how things started, I had to rework it pretty early on as blues & greens are my favorite colors to work with, so that tub rapidly filled up. I moved the violets into the ROY tub (as both yellows & oranges are pretty rare. I LOVE them. They just seem to be harder to find in the world of yarn). <br />
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You now know the secret to my system. As far as quantity, my only requirement is that the tubs have to be able to close, which they all can...but you see them ready to bust, yes?? ;) <br />
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Here are the details for this week's purge...<br />
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<b><u>MATERIALS</u></b> you will need, or @ least that I am using:<br />
1) an additional (empty) 18 gallon tub, to be the "purge" tub<br />
2) a postal scale, or scale of some sort to weigh partial skeins<br />
3) a jar/tub for niblets<br />
4) access to a computer/Ipad to input/update your Ravelry cyber stash<br />
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<b><u>PROCESS</u></b><br />
As my stash is organized by tub, I will be sorting through each tub, one/day. Open one tub & dump it into another container or onto your table. <br />
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1. Pick up & hold each & every yarn, and ask yourself "Do I love this yarn?". Be honest with yourself -- 'everything you hold, holds you', and our end goal if freedom. Only you can make the choice for you, in this moment. If you love the yarn, put it back into your stash tub, it you don't, toss it into the purge tub. If you're really not sure, keep it/them for now & check back next January. <br />
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<i>At this point, I would like to point out the plastic bags. I have each yarn stored in a plastic ziploc bags. This is great for a number of reasons. 1) When you have multiple skeins of a yarn, they are all in one (or sometimes two) neat little packages, 2) moths can't get into/out of ziploc bags (and you DO NOT want a moth problem if you work mainly with wool!!), 3) your yarn is safe from moisture, odors, pet hair, etc, which is important is your stash is kept in your basement (like mine is) and if you have tons of both children & animals running around you house. You can rest easy knowing your yarn is safe! :)</i><br />
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2. As you go, you may come across partial skeins, hence the "niblet" tub we have on hand. Set a minimum weight for your stash, mine is 1 oz. If a skein weighs less than 1 oz, then it goes straight to the niblet tub. These are great for little projects, wrapping packages, etc. I don't keep tabs on these little guys, so the children are free to use them in their crafting & projects, I use cotton niblets to hang my chicken feeders or mark garden rows for planting...bits can be cut off to use as "<a href="http://www.endlessknits.com/how-tos/lifelines/" target="_blank">life lines</a>" in your knitting projects, whatever.<br />
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Okay, now that we have narrowed things down a bit, let's go back through the "LOVE" tub. Again, dump it into another container or out onto your table. Again, pick up & look @ each yarn.<br />
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1) Rub the yarn against your face/neck. Is it itchy?? For me, that means it goes straight to the purge tub. All of our children & my husband all have sensitive skin, so I don't even bother with itchy yarns. If you do a lot of felting projects these might be good to keep on hand. You choose...<br />
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2) Did you buy this yarn for a specific project? If so, do you still want to make that project? If so, find the pattern on Ravelry, add it to your queue & tag that yarn. If not, no worries. We're just working on getting reacquainted with everyone @ this point. <br />
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3) Have you had this yarn for more than two or three years?? If so, decide on an "Expiration Date". I am still debating mine. I can't decided between one year or two. My gut says one year, as I work well with deadlines, but my crafting time is not @ all what it used to be. At any rate, I'll have that all figured out before Monday. Choose a date that feels right for you. I do recommend staying with something smaller, no more than two or three years. If you have had this yarn for three years already and give it a three year expiration date, that means you will have been holding onto it for a good six years...to me, that says that maybe I don't love this yarn as much as I thought I did. Feel free to make an exception if you have special circumstances. I know some folks have yarns that have been handed down from their grandmothers/mothers. This is *your* destash, *you* make the rules. <br />
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At this point, since skeins are on a smaller, more manageable level, it might be a good idea to go ahead & update/begin to create your stash database on Ravelry. Make sure each yarn has a picture (taken in good/outdoor lighting), double check that your quantities & weights are correct. Depending on where you are with all of this, you may have had you fill for one day & that is *totally* fine. Baby steps... Do what you can, a little bit @ a time & you'll get it all done & without the added stress/frustration of having forced things.<br />
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My Ravelry stash is pretty much up to date. I plan on starting @ the top, with the yellows and working my way down. Any yarns that I tossed into the purge tub will get put into the "will sell/trade" folder for now & any that I cannot seem to locate @ the moment will get put into the "traded/sold/gifted" folder for now. If they turn up as I work my way through the house, I'll handle them then. ;) All of this will leave only yarns I LOVE in my 'stash", perfect!!<br />
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I also plan to note the "Expiration Dates" in the "notes" portion for each of those skeins that need one.<br />
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I just want reiterate one last time that this is what works for me & where I am right now. Read through it, think on it, take what works for you & leave the rest. Edit & revise to your heart's content! You are @ the helm of your journey, so do what makes sense to you. Please share your own thoughts/ideas/links, as I would love to see how your destash takes shape!<br />
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And *CHEERS* to us for taking the first step!Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-36340380611291149302015-01-02T07:37:00.000-05:002015-01-02T09:10:24.300-05:00My *52* Week Journey to an Organized/Decluttered/Minimalized Home...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you know me, you know I LOVE organizing & decluttering, and am always going through <i>some</i>thing. Actually, I usually start with one room in our house & work my way through. Then I start over again, completing the cycle probably three or four times per year.<br />
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Well...now that I think about it, that seems a bit insane. Seems like I should have better things to do with my time, and I do... We are a homeschooling family of six. We sort of operate a mini-homestead, complete with large garden, chickens, canning, cooking from scratch, etc.<br />
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The thing is, I always feel inspired @ the possibility that comes with the word *new*...a new week, a new month, a new year...what will it hold, only we can decide that! I also think that no matter where we are, we can always do a little bit more, try a little harder...baby steps...and that is why this time of year, the new *YEAR*, always gets me really excited! 365 days of possibility lie before each of us...a blank slate so to speak, what will you do with yours??<br />
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For this year, 2015, I decided I wanted to focus on decluttering/minimalizing & really kick things up a notch from my usual routine.<br />
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I have heard that when you put things out to the "universe", doors open, almost like magic. It appears to be true, as I have been finding inspiration <i>every</i>where!<br />
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It started, I think, with this "<a href="http://www.home-storage-solutions-101.com/organized-home.html" target="_blank">52 Weeks to and Organized Home Challenge</a>", put out each year by Taylor Flannery. I printed out her list and tweaked it to fit our family & our needs. For example, we have no shed, no attic, no crystal/silver to store, no cosmetics to organize, but we DO have homeschooling books, curriculum & supplies to sort & organize. Also, I am an avid crafter (knitting, crocheting & sewing), and have a lot of supplies on hand to keep organized. Anyway, I reworked the list to include all of these items and took out all the irrelevant ones. I also consolidated some of them, again, because of the needs of our family & because I do A LOT of organizing/decluttering, so there are some tasks I will make quick work of. <br />
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I then broke each week's "mission" down into daily 'mini' tasks, one for each day, Monday through Friday because I think we *all* deserve weekends off. Well, that & the fact that weekends are when we do spend time together as a family & work on a our projects around the house.<br />
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(<i>I found out later that Taylor actually does this too, so there you go! You can sign up for weekly missions sent to you inbox every Monday, as well as 15 min/day 'mini missions' that correspond to her "52 weeks list. you can use her pre-planned, day to day, to-do list, , or use her model as a base & tweak it to fit your family. I actually scanned through her monthly calenders & added a few things to mine.</i> :).<br />
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The long & short of this is that my goal this year is to go beyond where I have gone in the past, pace myself & hopefully really make a big difference in both the amount of free space in our home & in our heads...it is *all* connected, believe me!<br />
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So, that is where my big plans for 2015 began...the seed, so to speak. Then a friend posted about a blog, "<a href="http://www.ticoandtina.com/" target="_blank">Tico & Tina</a>", that really helped her purge when they moved recently. One of their segments is "<a href="http://www.ticoandtina.com/exploring-minimalism/" target="_blank">31 Days of exploring Minimalis</a>m". I read a few of the articles last night and stumbled upon these two challenges: "<a href="http://www.ticoandtina.com/3-wardrobe-challenges-help-create-efficient-wardrobe/" target="_blank">3 Wardrobe Challenges to Help You Create a More Efficient Wardrobe</a>". LOVE!!<br />
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I think the "<a href="http://myyearwithoutclothesshopping.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/30-Day-Shop-Your-Wardrobe-Challenge.pdf" target="_blank">30 Day Shop Your Wardrobe Challenge</a>" & the "<a href="http://theproject333.com/getting-started/" target="_blank">Project 333</a>" both sound really fun & & I think I could learn a few things from them as well. I got out my handy, dandy "52 Weeks List" & backtracked to see where they would work best. After reading through the "30 Day Shop Your Wardrobe Challenge", I think it can help each of us to try new things with what we have & look @ our wardrobes differently...mix it up a little & have some fun! I think I'll end up wearing things I haven't worn & in new combinations that might not have other-wise come to be. I plan to follow that up with the "Project 333 Challenge", making use of what I learned in the first challenge. Added those two puppies onto both my "52 Week" list & onto the monthly calendars as well.<br />
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Side note: I keep both the "52 Week" master list & the monthly breakdown in a page protector on a bookshelf in our dining room, with my homeschooling planner, our family calendar, etc. The "52 weeks" list faces out on one side & the current month faces out on the other. I think this may be a yearly thing...so I plan on saving, making notes, updating it throughout the year so that next December I can just modify the existing plans to fit where we are then...<br />
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That brings me to why I am dusting off this blog after an insanely long hiatus. Two reasons, 1) I am super excited about all of this & thought others might be too... 2) I want to have a record of where we are now & where we end up come December 2015. the unknown...LOVE it!!<br />
<br />Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-90692272463932873012014-06-30T16:31:00.000-04:002014-06-30T16:53:20.321-04:00FREE PATTERN, "Celtic Love" a cabled pillow shami first became aware of knit pillows & moreso *cabled* knit pillows last summer...<br />
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a friend sent me some photos & asked if i would be up for upgrading her throw pillows, um...yeah!<br />
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who knew?? cabled pillows are absolutely gorgeous!! so many varieties...<br />
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it can actually be a daunting task to design a cabled pillow as there are an amazing number of cables out there. so to narrow the gamut down to ones you like & then refine that list to ones that actaully 'work' well together can be an involved process.<br />
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below is the first one that i designed myself, i call it "celtic love" because of the central knot/plait.<br />
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i fell in love with this plait & knew i wanted it to be front & center on my design. the hunt was then on a for a good companion...flattering & yet, not nothing that would detract from the main cable... <br />
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what do you think?? <br />
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i LOVE it & am eager to design more...<br />
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@ any rate, i finally got the pattern uploaded on here, link it in on ravelry as well. :)<a href="https://www.ravelry.com/" target="_blank"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-OPj2rjL8pFSFZPTG4yb2hqcGM/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-OPj2rjL8pFSFZPTG4yb2hqcGM/edit?usp=sharing</a><br />
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<br />Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-66096917033403940202013-07-03T16:27:00.000-04:002013-07-03T16:30:55.890-04:00full circle...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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i love life...<br />
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i love how things are constantly changing. i love how there is always so much more to learn/do/create/explore. i love how things can come to us unexpectedly. and i *love* how it feel when we are on the right track.<br />
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the wave of peace & warmth that washes over us when we are on a road that is true to both us & those we love... <br />
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right now i am referring to homeschooling.<br />
<br />
i have a friend who is pregnant with her 3rd child & due to start homeschooling her eldest this fall ask me, a "veteran homeschooler" with *7* years under my belt for advice. she is where i was when we began our journey...;)<br />
<br />
in writing her back about various methods that we used/explored so long ago in our early years, i rediscovered 2 lovely approaches that we used with our eldest.<br />
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this was key, because when she asked me for advice, i was contemplating our own upcoming year.<br />
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our history?? we began with"school @ home", like so many other moms who want to homeschool, but weren't homeschooled themselves & have no idea where to begin.<br />
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i quickly learned that this would not work!<br />
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so, then we began exploring...my neighbor turned me onto <a href="http://simplycharlottemason.com/basics/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/">Charlotte Mason</a>, which felt good for us & then told me about <a href="http://fiveinarow.com/">five in a row</a>, which was perfect for us.<br />
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later on, i fell in love with <a href="http://www.whywaldorfworks.org/">waldorf</a>. the waldorf approach felt so very right for me. as the mother of a newborn, with 2 young children, i was looking to honor this new life, while enjoying freedom to be & do with our other 2 children.<br />
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and then, just a year & a half into this new life, i was pregnant with our fourth child...a sweet girl.<br />
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waldorf guided us through these early years, but later on when homeschooling the two eldest with the two littles in tow, it became too much.<br />
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this gentle approach no longer felt right for us...it was way too stressful & i was spent. the boys, then 11 & 8 were tired of waiting for their "turn" with mama & just wanted to be done!<br />
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i, too, felt that our day was a struggle. lessons dragged on because our two youngers were still very much in the thick of needing mama.<br />
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after the great coup of 2010, our same amazingly wise neighbor told me about what her daughter had been doing. superb child-led book via <a href="http://www.clp.org/">christian light education</a>. affordable, thorough & just what the boys were looking for...<br />
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and we remained with this approach last year as well.<br />
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it really is a great curriculum, and our now 13 year old wants to continue with it this fall. *but* things have changed so that i have both more time & energy. our littles are now 4 & 6 & this is huge!<br />
<br />
and so, we begin anew this fall, with things having come full circle...<br />
<br />
our 6 year old will use five in a row & our 4 year old (who very much wants to be in on the lessons) will sit in when she wants to & play on her own when she feels so moved.<br />
<br />
five in a row has enough structure for me to feel that we are forming a good foundation, but it is in no way intense. we read *one* book every day for a week. then your lessons, math, literature, art, science come form the books.<br />
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for example, the first book is the story of ping, a duck. each morning we will read the book & then:<br />
<br />
<u>Monday</u>: (social studies, geography) we'll find china on a map & read a second book about china.<br />
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<u>Tuesday</u>: (math) we'll use manipulatives (buttons, clothespins, or perhaps even pictures of ducks) to count out ping's family. we'll do some basic addition & subtracting as well.<br />
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<u>Wednesday</u> (this is when our homeschool co-op meets)<br />
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<u>Thursday</u> (science, animal kingdom) we'll learn about ducks. we'll read a couple of books about ducks & observe them @ our neighbor's pond. perhaps we'll even bring our notebooks & sketch them.<br />
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<u>Friday</u>: (art, drawing water) we'll look back through the book, noting the different ways that water is drawn...puddles, ripples for motion, etc. and then we'll try our hand @ drawing water in our lesson books.<br />
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as our week's are only 4 days, because of co-op & because some books are more inspiring that others, we will cut some down to 4 lessons & extend some to included 8 lessons. <br />
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@ any rate, i have been having so much fun planning out our year!<br />
<br />
i bought a super simple, but *perfect* planner for $10 @ target. it is awesome & has *everything* i need & none of the extra stuff i never use. basic outlines will go in here.<br />
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i also have a spiral notebook where i keep more detailed notes about each lesson, including addition thoughts, ideas & resources.<br />
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i have missed all of this!! i have missed planning & being more involved in our children's lessons. i have missed picking out experiments & projects that i know they'll love...<br />
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this is where i'll leave you...next time, charlotte mason & our 10 year old. :)<br />
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~love & peace to each of you on your journey~<br />
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<br />Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-67214342094095179432013-06-18T17:20:00.001-04:002013-07-03T16:29:16.531-04:00revamping this fall...i have always said that homeschooling is a journey & it is as true now as it was when we first began our journey sever years ago! <br />
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for this fall i find myself revisiting old haunts. charlotte mason & five in a row (FIAR) are both methods that we used when our soon-to-be-teen was just beginning his voyage. and now here i am again hunting down those same books after having passed them along to various people over the years...<br />
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if you have any of the below, i would love to talk trading!!<br />
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i can knit, as you know & sew. i could trade supplies, if you are a crafter...or if paypal is more convenient, i am trying to beef up my account balance a bit so that i can funds to cover the (many) books our county libraries don't have.<br />
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(Volume #1) <br />
1.The Rag Coat, Lauren Mills<br />
2. Who Owns the Sun?, Stacy Chosky<br />
3. Another Celebrated Dancing Bear, Gladys Scheffin-Falk<br />
4. Papa Piccolo, Carol Talley<br />
5. Very Last First Time, Jan Andrews<br />
6. Kate & the Big Snow, Virginia Lee Burton<br />
7. Stepping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening, Robert Frost (illus. Susan Jeffers) <br />
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<br />
I am also in search of FIAR volumes two, three & four along with all of the Charlotte Mason Volumes (#1-4).<br />
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Thank you in advance for your help with our search!! <br />
<br />
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<br />Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-62029265845770369922013-04-04T18:19:00.002-04:002013-07-12T14:26:55.371-04:00Free Knitting Pattern: Wild Strawberries, a resuable produce bag. :)just logged in for the first time since February 6th apparently, WOW!!! that was nearly 2 months ago, to the day...<br />
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that is the thing about blogs, isn't it?? it is so hard to keep up on the <i>posting</i> when you are so busy doing the <i>living</i>, right??<br />
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@ any rate, working towards the Baker's Dozen, here is Household Item #4...a reusable & (bonus!) washable produce bag.<br />
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I can fit 8+ good sized oranges in it, as the pattern is *very* stretchy. name it wild strawberry because that is what it looked like sitting there on the table, loaded with its bounty...<br />
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bonus #2, the bag takes less than 3 hours from cast on to weave in ends!<br />
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<b><u>Materials Needed</u></b>:<br />
*size US #8 (5mm) double pointed needles, set of 5<br />
*size US #10 (6mm) double pointed needles, set of 5<br />
*1 skein of lily sugar'n cream (or similar yarn, roughly 120 yds)<br />
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<b><u>Abbreviations</u></b>:<br />
k1, knit 1<br />
yo, yarn over<br />
k2tog, knit two together<br />
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<b><u>Bottom</u></b>:<br />
using smaller needles, CO 8 sts.<br />
divide sts evenly onto 4 needles (2 sts/needle)<br />
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Rnd 1: k1, yo, k1, repeat each needle (12 sts)<br />
Rnd 2: knit around plain<br />
Rnd 3: k1, yo, k1, yo, k1, repeat each needle (20 sts)<br />
Rnd 4: knit around plain<br />
Rnd 5: k1, yo, knit across until 1 st remains on needle, yo, k1, repeat each needle (28 sts)<br />
Rnd 6: knit around plain<br />
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Repeat rounds 5 & 6 until you have 15 sts on each needles (60 sts total)<br />
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<b><u>Body</u></b>:<br />
switch to larger needles<br />
Rnd 1: (k2tog, yo) repeat around<br />
Rnd 2: knit around plain<br />
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Repeat rounds 1 & 2 until body measures 8"<br />
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<b><u>Cuff</u></b>:<br />
Rnd 1: purl <br />
Rnd 2: knit <br />
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Repeat rounds 1 & 2 once more<br />
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Rnd 5: k5, yo, repeat around<br />
Rnd 6: purl<br />
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Rnd 7: knit <br />
Rnd 8: purl<br />
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Repeat round 7 & 8 once more, then BO loosely, weave in ends.<br />
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Make a 2 st I-cord @ least 20 or so inches long, weave in end s& thread though the "holes" made by yo in cuff.<br />
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tie ends of I-cord together & enjoy!! <br />
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these bags are super cute & functional...knit a few & enjoy the feeling of helping our Mother! :)Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-82486026330428604312013-02-06T16:31:00.000-05:002013-04-04T18:50:09.089-04:00baker's dozen update...so, you may remember my post about the "baker's dozen"...my goal for the year (2013) to make *13* 1) food items & 2) household items this year that i/we would normally go out & buy.<br />
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this is surprisingly easy & FUN!! the only "hard part" is deciding what to do next!! <br />
<br />
first up, an update on our <strong>WOOL DRYER BALLS</strong> (aka <strong>HOUSEHOLD ITEM #1</strong>)<br />
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these are the ones made from yarn leftovers....<br />
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it's hard to tell in the photo, but they are thoroughly felted...it took ~6 goes in the wash. so, pretty much a week's worth of laundry @ our house. ;)<br />
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these are the wool batting ones...ehren, ev, & i wet felted them, then tossed them in the wash to really tighten them up.</div>
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we have been using these since the middle of january & they are AWESOME!!! they really do help absorb the moisture, allowing our clothes to dry quicker & they suck up all the static. love *LOVE* love these!!!</div>
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for <strong>FOOD ITEM #2</strong>, we have started making our own <strong>FRENCH FRIES</strong>. </div>
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for our first go, we fried them up in our cast iron skillet.</div>
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be warned!! they take a good 20 min or so *per batch* (lance blames is on our stove, says it doesn't get the oil hot enough), but my friend confirms that they really do take a while to make.</div>
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sooooo good though!</div>
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for our second go, we baked some in the over. they didn't turn our so hot. i might scope around online to see what i should have done differently. </div>
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i just cut them into 1/4" strips, tossed them in some oil, salt & pepper & baked @ 450 until they were done, ~30 min. most didn't turn out as crispy as we would have like & the ones that did were totally dried out inside. :(</div>
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never fear, we'll keep hunting (or) if you have mastered this art, PLEASE do share!!!</div>
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<strong>HOUSEHOLD ITEM #3, CHILDREN'S DRESS UP CLOTHES RACK</strong></div>
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this was so much fun to make... i really do LOVE woodworking, and was excited to be doing a project that didn't involve *yarn*!!</div>
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background...our littles share a room & each had their own (rather large) basket of dress-up clothes. we recently painted their room & ended up going through things then too. there were so many sweet/awesome/cool get ups that i hadn't seen in a while. they both wanted (of course!) to keep *everything*. </div>
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so, i wanted to work out some sort of setup that would allow them to keep everything, but keep anything from being buried under a heap. after a quick google search for wooden clothes rack, i came upon this...</div>
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i asked the kids, they loved it!! they loved the box @ the bottom, which is perfect for shoes, jewels, belts, hats, etc...<br />
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with this as my inspiration, i set to work measuring & hunting around for picture idea...something that would work for both a boy & a girl.<br />
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i found some cool clip art owls on etsy & had each pick out his/her favorite to make their side of the "accessory" box. unfortunately i cannot locate the right shop now :(<br />
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the sides were inspired by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73175214/digital-clip-art-birdcage-bird-clip-arts?">decorartist's</a> sweet bird designs...<br />
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it turned out so stinkin cute!!!!<br />
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i have to admit that i haven't done too many woodworking projects & though this was relatively simple, i was extremely nervous when it came time to assemble (aka, the "moment of truth"). it all worked out perfectly though!!! <br />
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& their rooms looks simply smashing!!!<br />
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and what lovelies have *you* been crafting?????? xoBlue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-86938825933367238282013-01-21T20:24:00.001-05:002013-01-21T20:24:57.309-05:00Project Locavore...have you ever read the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Animal-Vegetable-Miracle-Year-Food/dp/0060852569/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1358812981&sr=8-1&keywords=animal+vegetable+miracle">Animal, Vegetable, Miracle</a>?? if not, you should...<br />
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i have been on a barbara kingsolver kick for a while now. my first encounter with her was when we read her book "poisonwood bible" for one of our first book clubs. amazing...it is a truly thought provoking book, but aside from a great read, you really learn a lot about the politics in africa & our (america's) part. though her books are all very different, they all share the common themes of the importance of both family & community, along with social, economic & environmental issues. all of which are important to me, i suppose that is why we "clicked". ;)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ix6KIqTTUU4/UP3p7Unp5BI/AAAAAAAAFqE/flI8Xl6YVKA/s1600/garden+%2526+pets+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ix6KIqTTUU4/UP3p7Unp5BI/AAAAAAAAFqE/flI8Xl6YVKA/s320/garden+%2526+pets+%25285%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
kingsolver also makes sure to double check every fact she includes in her books & has said (in her book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Small-Wonder-Essays-Barbara-Kingsolver/dp/0060504080/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1358813191&sr=1-1&keywords=small+wonders">small wonder</a>) that she has stopped reading many books in the past because the author didn't bother to do their research. this is extremely important to me because i, like so many other, read to expand my horizons. my reading time is short, as you might guess, and so this allows me yet another way to "multi-task"...reading a book i love, while gleaning a little more knowledge about the world @ large.<br />
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@ any rate, i decided to read all of her books & am currently working thorough the last bit of animal, vegetable miracle.<br />
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background, barbara & her family of 4 decide to engage on a 1-year "food" journey, eliminating all foods from their lives that they cannot either make (or) buy within a 100 mile radius of their home. (when taking food, in our present society, 100 miles is *nothing*!!!!)<br />
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@ any rate, we do our best to eat healthy & cook from scratch, but there is always "more" that you can do. this book seems to be the natural, next step, for our family. <br />
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& from there, i posed the question to our boys to base a homeschool unit study around the subject...<br />
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we shop @ farmer's markets & are lucky enough to have a really nice one, given the size of our town. but i want them to be more involved in the "why's" behind we do what we do & really have a say in where we are headed as this will affect all of us, as a family.<br />
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we began last week by taking inventory of every item in our pantry, fridge/freezer, & spice cabinet, reflecting on our findings along the way.<br />
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(we each have our own notebook to write down our findings, thoughts, ideas, etc as we work our way through this process.)<br />
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days #1-3 were spent taking inventory of everything that we had "in stock". on day #4, i printed out a 10x18 photo of a U.S map & we charted our findings.<br />
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the map wasn't extremely detailed. in most cases it just had the state capitals, so if the exact city wasn't on there that we needed, we just added a dot to that state. this is a bit vague, but it will still allow us a good idea of where our food is coming from.<br />
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today, day #5, we reviewed & discussed our map. we were all surprised that more of our fruits/vegetables didn't come from outside of the US. pomegranates, for example, are grown here in the US. they have always seemed a bit more exotic to me... we are curious about the story behind the spices. the majority of ours come from either mccormick (or) frontier (typical for bulk spices & health food stores). but where do these really come from?? again, they seem to exotic to be grown here in states.<br />
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we did a bit of math, figuring out what percent of our "inventory" was from outside of the US., what percent was "unmappable" (these products listed only where the product was distributed from & *not* where is was manufactured). this was aydin's first go @ percentages...<br />
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we discussed what would be a realistic goal for our 'local" region. barbara's family used a 100 mile radius (if you look on our map, it is the smallest circle, drawn in pencil).<br />
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it really puts things into perspective, doesn't it?? it almost seems impossible, although i know they did it, really & truly.<br />
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the boys & i talked & @ first they wanted to go with a 600 mile radius & me with a 300 mile radius. in the end, we compromised on 450 miles. for orin, the clincher (for some reason) was the spices. most of our spices were mccormick & their plant is based in hunt valley, maryland. <br />
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this is fun. i am a bit of a "throw caution to the wind/extremist/cold turkey" kinda girl, when it comes to new adventures, so i am glad that i am working with the boys on this...moderation is a bit more their style & i feel that this will help the coming changes be met with a more open mind.<br />
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tomorrow, we'll remap some of the vaguer places to see just what we have been buying that is still 'acceptable' & see what we need to begin researching to find new source (or) ways to make our own.<br />
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we'll each pick a favorite food & learn a bit more about where it comes from, how it is grown, etc...the "real story".<br />
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the littles are actually working their way through a less intense version of "project locavore", i'll post about that @ some point soon. i know we are going to learn about bananas, as ehren is very disappointed that those are getting scratched off our list...:(<br />
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until then...Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-50870005318004655992013-01-15T19:42:00.001-05:002013-01-15T20:06:09.470-05:00wooly goodness...there is so very much happening @ our house right now, so many plans in the works, some already underway & many on the forefront...can you tell that we are hankering for spring???<br />
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until then, here's a bit of knit love...<br />
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this was, apparently, the year for hats...<br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/turn-a-square-3">15 bean soup</a>, for my father-in-law. another turn a square...this hat has definitely become my 'go to' for "manly gifts". the great part is that no matter how awesome you think it's going to turn out, it always turns out better!! gotta *love* that!!</div>
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i made a "twisted burl" for me, in lion brand organic's (pecan) & it is just so darn scrumptious, i had to make another...this one, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/twistedburl-slouch-3">bok choy</a>, is for my sister-in-law...</div>
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this gorgeous "zigzag chunky hat", dubbed <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/zigzag-chunky-hat">running man</a>, was a special request from my mother-in-law. the colorway was chosen to match her running jacket...</div>
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ahhh...the infamous "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/incognito">fako mustacho</a>", named after <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fake-Mustache-Presidential-Election-Mastermind/dp/1419701940/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1358296515&sr=1-1-spell&keywords=fako+mustasho">this</a> super fun audiobook. this was such a fun knit!! first take on duplicate stitch, but turned out really swell, don't you think??<br />
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bean specially requested a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/amigurumi-yoda">yoda</a> for his birthday...and, well, how can you say no to that??</div>
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a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/calorimetry-8">special request</a> for a lovely mama...i *love* the way this knit up!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/cabled-mitts-3">pomegranate palms</a>, for my michigan*der sister-in-law...</div>
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lastly, this was a special request that came into the shop...<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/awesome-fingerless-gloves">fingerless gloves</a> for the younger set. <br />
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this pattern took a bit of working out, but i got it figured out...still need to post it though. don't worry, it's on my to-do list. ;)<br />
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and what lovelies have <em>you</em> been working on??? xoBlue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-5036646909123927842013-01-04T20:12:00.000-05:002013-01-04T20:13:47.550-05:00baker's dozen...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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we started back to school after winter break yesterday.<br />
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silly, i know, to "go" for only 2 days out of the week. BUT my sister & i are headed to nashville come monday & i didn't want to use 2 of our *free* days for the semester right off the bat. so....we began working our way back into our previously familiar groove yesterday.<br />
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why nashville?? well, it's interesting that you should ask. ;) my mother is retiring after working @ the same hospital for *<strong>30 years</strong>* & one of the doctors is hosting an evening with friends & family in her honor. thus, my sister & i are scooting over that way to attend.<br />
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@ any rate, i have missed it, our daily rhythm. i am a creature of habit, as the saying goes & i do so enjoy our routine person.<br />
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but enough about that, i have some really neat things that i am itching to share with you & with 4 children lurking around the corner, time if definitely of the essence!! ;)<br />
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so...remember the other day when i was saying that i have more or less forgone new year's resolutions?? this is still true, in essence. BUT that being said, there are certain things that i have been wanting to do & there is just something about the new year that just makes me crave something new...some sort of goal that needs achieving. <br />
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thus, my theme for the year is "baker's dozen" (it is 20<em>13</em> after all, right??) it perfect!!<br />
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so, 13 things. now, why do 13 when you could do 26?? <em>please</em> hear me out before you decided that i am reliving the infamous new year's resolution madness that was 2011. the key here is that they are all <strong>completely & totally doable</strong>. see...i have thought this through & am being totally & utterly realistic. <br />
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now for the 2 main headings/catergories for these "13 things":<br />
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1) <u>food items</u>, to be made from scratch (vs) bought. things that we buy a lot of & that i could truly make @ home. the catch is that these new concoctions will need to be successful to actually count, as in able to replace the ones that we are currently purchasing AND i will need to stick it out for the year, once i start.<br />
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(this goes along with the overall theme for my life this year, which is to working to be more of a locavore. but more about that later...)<br />
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2) <u>general household items</u>, ones that we use, could use (or) need, to be made (vs) bought.<br />
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(this goes along with being green, doing a bit more here/there when & where we can)<br />
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now, you might be asking how i know that this is totally doeable. well, i know this beause i have already done 2 of them!! not bad, eh??<br />
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<strong><u>Food Item #1</u></strong><br />
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last night i made <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/homemade-flour-tortillas/detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Title&e11=homemade%20flour%20tortillas&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page">homemade flour tortillas</a>! we eat a lot of rice, beans, eggs, etc & thus *a lot* of tortillas. the were super easy & though they turned out a bit wonky, in shape, they were muy delicioso!! <br />
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they didn't take that long to make either, obviously more time than opening a store bought package, but then where is the pride in that?? (i was sooo proud of my tortillas!! *and* i was glad that lance wasn't here, he would have made fun of me for being so excited about them. ;)<br />
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<br />
<strong><u>Household Item #1</u></strong><br />
<br />
we also made some dryer balls. have you heard about these?? they are apparently wonderful for many, many reasons....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>What wool dryer balls do</u>:</strong></div>
<ul>
<li>absorb moisture from the clothes in the dryer, cutting your dryer time by 25-50%!</li>
<li>help reduce static cling</li>
<li>soften clothes</li>
<li>can lightly scent clothing naturally with essential oils (optional)</li>
<li>save a lots of money–dryer balls can last 7+ years</li>
<li>dry and remove static naturally without chemicals</li>
</ul>
cool, right??<br />
<br />
bonus, they are super simple to make! there are loads of tutorials out there on the web, so i won't bother posting one here.<br />
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<br />
all you need though is 100% wool (either felted sweaters, roving, or yarn). i did see one tutorial that said you could make them with upcycled cotton sweaters, if you are allergic to wool, but i think that wool works the best.<br />
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<br />
the kids & i made a couple of wet felted one, but i still need to get photos of those & these when they are finished. <br />
<br />
the top photo is of freshly wound dryer balls, the second photo (in the pantyhose) is before going into the wash. i'll post photos of each after they are thoroughly felted. for this lot, i wound up some yarn that i was planning on passing on...<br />
<br />
<em>another sort of "resolution"...in my mind only...well, i guess not anymore since i am now posting it here (tee, hee) is to reduce the crafting stash.</em><br />
<br />
i have *loads* of crafting bits & bobs, a healthy stash of yarn, but also roving, felt, & some fabric. and then the tubs of randomness, beads, elastic, ribbons, gems, sequins, etc...<br />
<br />
i am toying with the idea of 13 *new* crafts/crafting projects, but i need to think on this a bit more before i commit. anyway, i don't think it counts as "destashing" if i just pawn my things of on someone else (or does it?? :)<br />
<br />
so...<br />
<br />
the official posting of the baker's dozen for the world to see & already 2 projects down. i feel good. this is the sort of "challenge" that can help you do all the things that you have been meaning to do for who knows how long...<br />
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<br />
we actually did a couple other projects today, recycling both crayons & modeling beeswax. they don't count towards the "13" because we have done them both before, but maybe <strong>you</strong> could count them towards yours??<br />
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<br />
we buy stockmar beeswax crayons for our lessons, both stick & block crayons. they are gorgeous & have a really natural feel to them & smell, like beeswax! lovely to work with & gorgeous colors & they last a long time...unless you have dog that really likes to chew on crayons. but i digress...when the crayons wear down, i put the bits in a tub for our youngest to use (the "good" ones are reserved for lesson work *only*). today, we melted them down to make new un-block crayons for shading (which, the old me, would previously buy each fall). <br />
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<br />
we used mini muffins tins & "baked" them @ 275 degrees for ~7-8 min. once thoroughly melted, place them in the freezer to cool. they should pop out relatively easily, ours do.<br />
<br />
we use our modeling beeswax a lot & the littles have really taken a liking to it this past fall, which means there are loads of little, tiny, crumb-ish sized pieces. these are very tedious to work with when big brother sit down to do their modeling. so, we melted them as well. same temp & ~ the same time as well, but in *big*/regualar sized muffin tins.<br />
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<br />
here's the trick with the beeswax though, as the color will settle on the bottom when they melt. you will need to *carefully* remove the pan from the over & let cool slightly. scrape (yes, you'll need to literally scape the beeswax out of the muffin tin) & knead it thoroughly to reintegrate the color.<br />
<br />
it feels amazing in your hands & the smell is divine...i LOVE it!!<br />
<br />
we like to reshape it into somewhat thin (1/8") rectangular slabs, let cool the rest of the way & store.<br />
<br />
alright, now i need to do my tidying...i have avoided it long enough, don't you think?? xoBlue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-7252026366298624132013-01-02T17:28:00.002-05:002013-01-02T17:32:05.308-05:00ah, yes...a new year. (blows dust off blog)<br />
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<br />
hello!<br />
<br />
i know is has been a very long time since i last posted...february 17th, in fact, as my father informed me a few weeks back. <br />
<br />
there came a time when i felt obligated to post & that is never a good feeling. we should each do things because we choose to or want to...because we feel moved to or inspired to. these are the feelings that should guide our days, but as we all know (or the majority of us know) this isn't *always* the case, is it?? <br />
<br />
my mind is one that likes to categorize things & then go absolutely MAD with various rules & restrictions about those categories. <br />
<br />
enter exhibit A: my new year's resolution of 2011.<br />
<br />
i decided that i would knit tings i had never knit before, a blanket, a sweater, a pair of socks, etc...the list slowly grew to about 9/10 & then i saidto myself, well, what the heck there are 12 months in a year, let's make it 12 (aka 1/month).<br />
<br />
then i thought, why not choose 12 things in *4* different aspects of my life to work on as well. <br />
<br />
and so the list went from 12 things to 48 things, ranging it items for me to craft to aspects of my own self to work on (being more grateful, being more patient, loving my husband for who he is, etc...). it was absolutely ridiculous & my sister & my husband both bore witness to my madness.<br />
<br />
and then the list disappeared @ some point during the early portion of the year, never to bee seen or heard from again.... (enter dramatic music) <br />
<br />
i am guessing that one of the two fore mentioned people (or perhaps my own inner consciousness) disposed of it to save me from myself.<br />
<br />
why?? well, because there is another aspect of myself that likes to lurk around dark corners as well.<br />
<br />
i am not sure of its title, but it never lets things go. if i say i am going to do something then i absolutely *must* do it, no matter what the circumstances or the time frame...no matter how "past date" it is, no matter what sacrifices have to be made. period.<br />
<br />
so, you see, i must be very careful about what i choose to do.<br />
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<br />
@ any rate, this month, january 2013, is to be filled with all manner of things that i was supposed to do last year. i am pretty good about staying on task, so the list isn't that long, but there are a fair few projects that still need tending before i'll be officially caught up.<br />
<br />
i know, i could do as so many other do & choose to let this first month of the new year serve as an eraser of all past obligations this would allow for a clean slate, but because of all the above mentioned bits of myself, i have gotten a lot better @ choosing what is truly important to me & so these projects are ones that i feel stongly about & truly do want to finish. <br />
<br />
the thing is that i have changed A LOT since january 2011. last year, believe it or not, i didn't even make any new year's resolution...not a one! (if you don't believe me scroll through the posts from last january...i just did ;)<br />
<br />
i believe i might have made something of an inner commitment to work towards finding more balance in my life, but this is one of those ongoing processes.<br />
<br />
in closing...here in writing, is the rundown on my new "blogging" philosophy. <br />
<br />
i will post when i feel inspired to post. :)<br />
<br />
simple, right??<br />
<br />
AND instead of trying to fit into some sort of category, i.e.homeschooling (or) knitting, etc, i plan to post about whatever i am excited about @ the moment. <br />
<br />
*BE WARNED*, i am easily excited (don't believe me? ask my husband/my children! :) <br />
<br />
welcome to the blog that is me, our family & a reflection of whatever is striking our fancy @ the moment...!!<br />
<br />
happy new year to both you & your families!! xoBlue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-77840976106582726472012-02-17T20:14:00.000-05:002012-02-17T20:14:14.421-05:00homemade & lovin' it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cOJ0F5VcRmU/Tz759Bmqw-I/AAAAAAAAFlM/gtziiNXlIBs/s1600/IMG_4784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cOJ0F5VcRmU/Tz759Bmqw-I/AAAAAAAAFlM/gtziiNXlIBs/s320/IMG_4784.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">so...the kids all came down with funky colds & coughs this week. :( </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">that is the bad news...the good news is that as i have been slowly creeping my way into the world of herbalistic remedies, we made our own medicines!! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> it was so exciting & so...well, it was so cool to be able to make our own cough syrup vs spending $8-10 on the herbal ones @ the market. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(side note, one of my good friend says 'market' instead of grocery store & i just LOVE it! so, <em>i </em>am giving it a go...anything to help the chores seem less chore-ish, right?? ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">anyway, 3 out of our 4 children woke up with coughs right off the bat, so i whipped up a standard honey & lemon juice cough syrup to get us on the road to healing...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">super simple & you can use it immediately!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">1/2 c honey</div><div style="text-align: center;">1 1/2 tbps lemon juice</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>doseage: 1-2 tsp as needed.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">yup, that's it! i put ours in a little jam jar, put on the lid & then shook it until combined.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">the other & more potent & has to sit overnight, so i made it up as soon as i was done dosing out the other.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EhtVsCeDLv8/Tz75z7X7xqI/AAAAAAAAFlE/eIB2zcxBs9s/s1600/402438_3120340083774_1122703218_33157196_787061397_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EhtVsCeDLv8/Tz75z7X7xqI/AAAAAAAAFlE/eIB2zcxBs9s/s1600/402438_3120340083774_1122703218_33157196_787061397_n%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">take a good-sized (yellow) onion & a squat little jar only slightly larger than said onion. slice the onion up real thin & stuff it into the jar, then cover it all with honey. if yours is like mine, you might need to stick your fingers (or a spoon -- in retrospect ;) in & sort of mush it all around to allow the honey to work its way down the sides & to the bottom of the jar.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">let this sit overnight, then remove the onion leftover & store in the fridge. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>doseage: 1 tbsp (children 1-6 years) & 2 tbsp (ages 6 & over)</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">this was <strong>amazing</strong>! bean had an especially nasty cough throughout the previous evening, all night long & when he woke up the next morning. i gave him a tbsp of the onion syrup & he hardly coughed @ all for the next 3 hours or so. a couple more doses & he was well on the mend.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i will warn you, it does <em>smell</em> very strong of onion, but it <em>tastes </em>like honey (well, aside from a wee bit of an onion after taste ;) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i LOVE this for so many reasons, not the least of which is being able to physically see & touch each ingredient (unlike those insanely long named ones that are created in laboratories!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">and what's more...i am soon to be taking herb classes with my friend kati. she is an absolute doll & an amazing woman in so many ways. i truly love & respect her & can't wait for her classes to start. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">the classes will run each monday in march, for a couple of hours each evening. my sister is watching the kids & i am counting down the days!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">what's more, we get to keep the remedies/salves/syrups/tinctures, etc that we create in the class. i can't wait!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">don't worry, i'll share what i learn with you, most definitely!! xo</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-37120517833590157402012-02-12T11:35:00.000-05:002012-02-12T11:35:59.627-05:00it's papa!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T50GKZL828g/TzfqKEm8b2I/AAAAAAAAFkU/OiXO3ja7pkM/s1600/IMG_4772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T50GKZL828g/TzfqKEm8b2I/AAAAAAAAFkU/OiXO3ja7pkM/s320/IMG_4772.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">bebe found this little superhero guy @ a friend's house & came running to me saying "look mama, it's papa!" i concur, it does bear a striking resemblance to lance. ;) <a data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/user.php?id=100000230989938" href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000230989938"></a></span></div><br />
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happy sunday...! xoBlue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-53751001779937035642012-02-12T11:31:00.001-05:002012-02-12T16:22:25.627-05:00a transition & recent projects...<div style="text-align: center;">things here have been a little bit crazy as ev, our 2 year old (soon to be 3 @ the end of march) is in a bit of a transitional phase.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(<em>translation: she is no longer napping, of VERY rarely & is thus going to bed earlier & of course, waking up earlier as well</em>).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">this is all fine & dandy, except that i have gotten a bit (too?) comfortable to our 'old' rhythm...you know the one where i not only had an few hours each afternoon to sit & *breathe*, but i also i had the early morning hours to my self for crafting & reading & gazing out @ the morning's sunrise & what not.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">hmmm...</div><div style="text-align: center;">all in good time a new rhythm will find its way to us...until then, i embrace our quiet mornings together <em>and</em> i try to sneak in a bit of extra "me time"/crafting time in where i can. ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">here are a few projects that i have managed to complete over the past few weeks...</div><div style="text-align: center;">first up a pair of legwarmers, for my friend kristen...i'll be trading these with her for a special mother's day present for someone special...;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGsLuT8G7ew/TzcCP4ipjhI/AAAAAAAAFik/3SIp00wNWUE/s1600/IMG_4757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGsLuT8G7ew/TzcCP4ipjhI/AAAAAAAAFik/3SIp00wNWUE/s320/IMG_4757.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obJlGXKqylo/TzcCSBTUJ2I/AAAAAAAAFis/fWz2VI9XHeA/s1600/IMG_4758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obJlGXKqylo/TzcCSBTUJ2I/AAAAAAAAFis/fWz2VI9XHeA/s320/IMG_4758.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">lance's aunt cricket requested a pair of convertible mitts, ones that would reach up to her elbows. she lives in michigan so i can imagine that the extra length does well to keep out the bitter cold winds!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-85wGznNIWsA/TzcCr-qPZqI/AAAAAAAAFi0/HGmHdm_Tn18/s1600/IMG_4755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-85wGznNIWsA/TzcCr-qPZqI/AAAAAAAAFi0/HGmHdm_Tn18/s320/IMG_4755.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpUp6bI8XKQ/TzcC409a62I/AAAAAAAAFjE/o0OBoLsAPi8/s1600/IMG_4750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WpUp6bI8XKQ/TzcC409a62I/AAAAAAAAFjE/o0OBoLsAPi8/s320/IMG_4750.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">for my mother's (now very late) christmas present, i have been working on a pair of convertible gloves. these have given me a bit of a time...not because the pattern is difficult or anything, but just because hands vary so much.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i knit a 'sampler' mitt according to the pattern...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KxbgLPmzjq8/TzcDA6SmjyI/AAAAAAAAFjM/A8m9p9jcWdk/s1600/IMG_4767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KxbgLPmzjq8/TzcDA6SmjyI/AAAAAAAAFjM/A8m9p9jcWdk/s320/IMG_4767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBkUELPTXZg/TzcDIaDZAZI/AAAAAAAAFjU/pHfawKHYmLI/s1600/IMG_4770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NBkUELPTXZg/TzcDIaDZAZI/AAAAAAAAFjU/pHfawKHYmLI/s320/IMG_4770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">knit the first mitt according to pattern, but 4” vs the 2.5” called for, perfect! however, realized that the hand potion was much too loose/bulky for my mother’s petite hands.</div><div style="text-align: center;">so, re-knit using size #5 dpns</div><div style="text-align: center;">the ribbing & fingers seem to be perfect, so will stick with #6’s for them…</div><br />
run down of mods…<br />
<em>ribbing in (k2,p2) </em>knit 4” (vs 2.5” suggested) <br />
<em>knit hand portion & mitten flap w/size us #5 needles </em>mitten flap in plain stock <br />
<em>modifying thumb to include flap as well</em><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">*all in all, once i got the first mitt tweaked & re-tweaked, the second one came together rather quickly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8vXfBLI0NVQ/TzcEH31byuI/AAAAAAAAFjc/9RMzFrxhGNk/s1600/IMG_4771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8vXfBLI0NVQ/TzcEH31byuI/AAAAAAAAFjc/9RMzFrxhGNk/s320/IMG_4771.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">the are very outdoorsy, my parents....kayaking, hiking, long weekend trip to hither & yon in their sportsmobile. i do hope that these fit the bill, but i of course, sent along a note specifying that if there was ANYthing that she didn't like or needed tweaking, to let me know. so, we'll see how they hold up in the "real world"</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i did fall in love with these while making them & decidedly need to make myself a pair. so, that is the tricky part...all my mods are in speculation...i like to make things for myself first, use them & then tweak them before gifting (if need be). with these, we'll just have to wait & hear the reviews.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PFdgN486n0/TzcENb7SIPI/AAAAAAAAFjk/NUohs4vuC9Q/s1600/IMG_4747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PFdgN486n0/TzcENb7SIPI/AAAAAAAAFjk/NUohs4vuC9Q/s320/IMG_4747.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">also, <em>had</em> to post this...</div><div style="text-align: center;">a scanned copy of my mom's hands that she emailed to me so that i could print it out & work the final measurements for her mitts...i LOVE it! it now hangs on my project board. :)</div><div style="text-align: center;">saturday i took a bit of a *break* from making gifts & made myself a new hat!! i realized not too long ago that, even though i am constantly knitting something, i hadn't knit something for myself since october 2010. wowsers!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMi0cOYrKMo/Tzgs4DUWLFI/AAAAAAAAFkk/KnigV5PGQkc/s1600/IMG_4774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMi0cOYrKMo/Tzgs4DUWLFI/AAAAAAAAFkk/KnigV5PGQkc/s320/IMG_4774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
figured i deserved a little something too. so, i set to work on a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/lyon-hat">roaring rainbow</a> (a scrappy lyon hat) as our sweet pup more or less devoured my other favorite winter hat. it still needs something...deciding between pom poms or tassels for the i-cord ends. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jqJtpQuhW0o/TzgtE_ker9I/AAAAAAAAFks/gVLBRTjmnes/s1600/IMG_4776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jqJtpQuhW0o/TzgtE_ker9I/AAAAAAAAFks/gVLBRTjmnes/s320/IMG_4776.JPG" width="320" /></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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tW7mkz0NbJ4/TzgtMw0NUqI/AAAAAAAAFk0/EFLWjgalivI/s1600/IMG_4778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tW7mkz0NbJ4/TzgtMw0NUqI/AAAAAAAAFk0/EFLWjgalivI/s320/IMG_4778.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>i also plan on indulging myself with a few other knit lovelies. i have my eye on both a sweater & a scarf/cowl (this one i am still deciding on).</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">still have one last christmas gift to knit though...</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">oh my gosh!! i almost forgot the gift i made for my sister!...it is brilliant!!! ok...i actually made 2, as i needed on as well...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-08LhOIy41ow/TzfnQIU5ZNI/AAAAAAAAFjs/rYRWWS_T0W0/s1600/IMG_4742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-08LhOIy41ow/TzfnQIU5ZNI/AAAAAAAAFjs/rYRWWS_T0W0/s320/IMG_4742.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u3mGE2adI_0/TzQBbLdL_3I/AAAAAAAAFiU/jvxsehOEKDc/s1600/409285_2944099773544_1592755324_2496575_970988851_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u3mGE2adI_0/TzQBbLdL_3I/AAAAAAAAFiU/jvxsehOEKDc/s320/409285_2944099773544_1592755324_2496575_970988851_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">that's right, knitting needles cases. there are loads of tutorials our there for knitting needles holders/rolls/cases, but in the end<a href="http://www.warehousefabricsinc.com/blog/knitting-needle-roll-tutorial/"> this one</a> looked right about perfect for us. <br />
<br />
both used mostly the same fabrics (scraps we found during our last visit to the clearance center). i had to tweak the measurements here & there, but i had nearly enough of each. ended up having to use other remnants for the interior pieces, but didn't they turn out lovely??<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S1saTQHt2D8/Tzfn2Na_XjI/AAAAAAAAFkM/G-8b53qEZL4/s1600/IMG_4743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S1saTQHt2D8/Tzfn2Na_XjI/AAAAAAAAFkM/G-8b53qEZL4/s320/IMG_4743.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wdEppETjcLQ/Tzfnc7izAKI/AAAAAAAAFj0/th0jbtzgjzE/s1600/IMG_4744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wdEppETjcLQ/Tzfnc7izAKI/AAAAAAAAFj0/th0jbtzgjzE/s320/IMG_4744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(please note the *secret* chicken pocket...my favorite part, i must admit)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ozyf95Kpw0/TzfnkARJpYI/AAAAAAAAFj8/oEp2XRNUggE/s1600/IMG_4745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ozyf95Kpw0/TzfnkARJpYI/AAAAAAAAFj8/oEp2XRNUggE/s320/IMG_4745.JPG" width="320" /></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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ToXehXuVL2g/TzfnqIZYykI/AAAAAAAAFkE/WU7yloftw3g/s1600/IMG_4746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ToXehXuVL2g/TzfnqIZYykI/AAAAAAAAFkE/WU7yloftw3g/s320/IMG_4746.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>i let her pick, as this was her (extremely belated) christmas gift. she aid that all her needles fit in it, so that is perfect! my straight & dpn's fit, but i still need one more...shorter & with wider pockets for my circulars.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
all in good time...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">otherwise, we are gearing up for our spring session of homeschool co-op, along with working to get the garden prepped for the early crops. giving lasagna gardening a go...on that note, i would like to thank my sister & her boyfriend, sam halbert, for their lovely christmas gift...*20* bags of leaves for our garden!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">whoop, whoop!</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-43227651590982779842012-01-24T17:09:00.004-05:002012-01-24T17:12:44.683-05:00working through it all...part #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r8h_n4GC_YA/Tx8fE-ylRdI/AAAAAAAAFiM/CQdSJcCfw0E/s1600/i-need-your-love-is-that-true-how-byron-katie-paperback-cover-art%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r8h_n4GC_YA/Tx8fE-ylRdI/AAAAAAAAFiM/CQdSJcCfw0E/s1600/i-need-your-love-is-that-true-how-byron-katie-paperback-cover-art%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div><br />
still working my way through byron katie's book. "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0307345300/ref=s9_simh_gw_p14_d0_g14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1T0PEGPABJDQFQVNQ79W&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846">i need your love -- is that true??". </a>taking it slow & really internalizing her words & working through all of the exercises. posting what really hits home with me here, for others who may well benefit & for future reference for myself...;)<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>"Minding Your Manners"</strong> (page 40)</div><div style="text-align: center;">"...politeness & tact are supposed to be about consideration for others. but notice how often they are really about trying to control the impression that you make...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">...when you're being polite, are you living the part or just playing it?? the difference to notice here is the difference it makes to you.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">for example, many people find it difficult to receive a kind remark or gift. the focus on reciprocating right away, even with a thank-you, can keep you from fully receiving...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">when you feel real gratitude it shows without effort. whether or not anyone notices is up to them. but if they do, they receive a much bigger gift, not small words & gestures, but gratitude itself. people become very open in the presence of gratitude. soon they want to give you everything. things get out of control & love appears.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">you can see this clearly with a hug. you don't experience the hug you are getting if you are trying to hug back. trying to hug back refuses the gift. when you really receive it, you feel the arms around you, you feel the body, you feel the love inside you. the receiving<em> is</em> the giving. it's the most genuine thing you can give back."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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this one is huge for me, as i am one of those who has had a hard time receiving any sorts of gifts/remarks/etc without trying to settle up first thing. i say 'who has had' because i have changed dramatically in this department. mainly since my pregnancy with our last child, our daughter, evyn.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">with our boys (x3) my pregnancies were life as usual, aside from a growing belly & a larger appetite. i didn't have to change a thing, other than the size pants i wore. ;) but activity & responsibility wise everything was life as usual. with evyn, however, everything changed. i went into preterm labor with her @ 5months & ended up spending a night in the emergency room with our midwife trying desperately to figure out what was going on. in the end, despite running every test that she could think of, we couldn't figure out what was going on. so, i was discharged & told more or less to 'keep it chill'.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i kept having pains & severe ones @ that. i had to really manage how much i took on each day & with 3 young children, a husband who works second shift & homeschooling, my plate was more or less full to begin with. up until this point, all of my mom friends had referred to me as "super mom, but now i couldn't even walk our dog without taking 2 or 3 breaks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">it was insanely frustrating, as i was used to being the one in charge & now my body was & i had NO choice but to listen or else risk losing this pregnancy. <span style="background-color: white;">but for all the aggravation, i learned a lot about myself. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;">i learned that i was a control freak, a perfectionist, constantly pushing my limits, which brought about mad amounts of stress. i learned that sleep was my friend & that things would fall into place without my having to be 'the one' to do it all. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: white;">i learned to let go & to breath & to enjoy. i learned that it was 'ok' to sit down & that i didn't <em>always </em>have to be doing something productive. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i had to rest more, which meant that some things i had previously considered 'mandatory' had to get scratched of my list altogether. AND i learned that no one hated me for not doing them (as i had previously thought that they would).</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">this was a big wake up call, on so many different levels.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i had to learn to ask for help, something that i was absolutely horrible @ doing (pride & ego, you know?? ;). i learned that people didn't look down on me or think any less of me because of it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">if was, in what byron calls, 'the state of gratitude'. i could feel the love around me & it wasn't because of anything i was doing. it was simply because i was loved.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">granted things got slightly back to normal after ev was born, once we settled into our new rhythm as a family of 6. but some things remained as they were -- i no longer stress about things as much. i do what i can & i know that that is enough.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">i have gotten better @ asking for help, though i could probably be better still. i constantly work on balance & no longer try to control everything. we each do the best we can with what we have & where we are each moment & as i tell our children (& remind myself as well) our best is all we can do.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">xo</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-4854853856575028492012-01-18T15:10:00.001-05:002012-01-18T15:28:20.287-05:00**free pattern wednesday**<div style="text-align: center;">like a great many of you, my grandmother was of the crafty sort. i remember receiving various handmades from a personalized crocheted stocking to a popper santa claus made from a toilet paper tube, & more recently cross stitched birthday cards. these days, nearing 90, she isn't able to craft nearly as much as she used to, or wants to because of arthritis. this makes her handmades even more special.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGr2KbrGhKc/TxckyTZE4kI/AAAAAAAAFhs/-Fr7qxL34EM/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGr2KbrGhKc/TxckyTZE4kI/AAAAAAAAFhs/-Fr7qxL34EM/s320/022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i have made her various things throughout the years, but nothing recent & certainly nothing knit. this is partly due to her living in arizona where handknits really aren't practical... when my sister-in-law requested a set of dishcloths for christmas it hit me, 'duh!!' that is what i could knit for grandma. ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i had planned on, of course, an "i love grandma" (or) "#1 grandma" cloth (or) some such. imagine my surprise when i couldn't find ANY such patterns on ravelry. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg9aYjsCJkA/TxcrVvxVrTI/AAAAAAAAFh0/xZTFH35negE/s1600/IMG_4614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lg9aYjsCJkA/TxcrVvxVrTI/AAAAAAAAFh0/xZTFH35negE/s320/IMG_4614.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">@ any rate, i found this<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mothers-day-cloth"> one</a> & liked it. decided to modify it a bit though, taking out one of the hearts, to make it a bit less busy & change the 'mom' to 'gma'...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">please enjoy the pattern, & do let me know if there are any difficult to understand bits, errors, etc... xo</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>"i love grandma" dish/washcloth</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOXC-52bfDo/TxckYn9HS-I/AAAAAAAAFhk/7rRsxQqbZbA/s1600/IMG_4622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOXC-52bfDo/TxckYn9HS-I/AAAAAAAAFhk/7rRsxQqbZbA/s320/IMG_4622.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>materials needed:</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">*worsted weight of choice (i used lily sugar n' cream)</div><div style="text-align: center;">*us size #4 needles (you can use larger needles, but the pattern won't show up as well)</div><div style="text-align: center;">*tapestry needle to weave in ends</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">CO 47 sts</div><div style="text-align: left;">rows 1-8 knit</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 9 (& all odd rows) knit across</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 10; k4, p39, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 12; k4, p5, k7, p3, k2, p5, k2, p2, k2, p5, k2, p4, k4 </div><div style="text-align: left;">row 14; k4, p5, k1, p5, k1, p4, k1, p5, k1, p4, * k1, p5* (2x), k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 16; k4, p5, k1, p5, k1, p4, k1, p5, k1, p4, *k1, p5* (2x), k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 18; k4, p5, k1, p2, k4, p4, k1, p5, k1, p4, k7, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 20; k4, p5, k1, p10, *k1, p2* (2x), k1, p4, *k1,p5* (2x), k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 22; k4, p5, k1, p10, k1, p1, k3, p1, k1, p4, k2, p3, k2, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 24; k4, p5, k1, p5, k1, p4, k3, p1, k3, p5, k2, p1, k2, p6, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 26; k4, p5, k7, *p3, k3*(2x), p6, k1, p8, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 28; k4, p39, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 30; k4, p14, k1, p24, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 32; k4, p13, k1, p1, k1, p23, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 34; k4, p12, k1, p3, k1, p6, k1, p15, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 36; k4, p11, k1, *p2, k1* (2x), p4, k3, p14, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 38; k4, p10, k1, p2, k3, p2, k1, p2, k2, p1, k2, p13, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 40; k4, p9, k1, p2, k5, p2, k3, p3, k2, p12, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 42; k4, p8, k1, p2, *k3, p1* (2x), k2, p2, k1, p2, k2, p11, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 44; k4, p8, k1, p2, k2, p3, k4, p2, k3, p2, k2, p10, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 46; k4, p8, k1, p5, k1, p2, k2, p2, k5, p2, k2, p9, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 48; k4, p9, k1, p3, k5, p2, k7, p2, k2, p8, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 50; k4, p10, k3, p2, k2, p2, k9, p2, k2, p7, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 52; k4, p14, k2, p2, k11, p2, k2, p6, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 54; k4, p3, k8, p2, k2, p2, k13, p2, k2, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 56; k4, p3, k1, p2, k2, p2, *k1, p2* (2x), k7, p1, k7, p2, k1, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 58; k4, p6, k2, p5, k1, p2, k6, p3, k6, p2, k1, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 60; k4, p6, k2, p5, *k1, p2, k5, p2* (2x), k1, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 62; k4, p6, k2, p5, k1, p3, k3, *p2, k3* (2x), p3, k1, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 64; k4, p6, k2, p5, k2, p6, k2, p1, k2, p6, k2, p5, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 66; k4, p3, k1, p2, k2, p2, k1, p3, k2, p4, k2, p3, k2, p4, k2, p6, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 68; k4, p3, k8, p4, k6, p5, k6, p7, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 69; knit</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 70; k4, p39, k4</div><div style="text-align: left;">rows 71-78, knit</div><div style="text-align: left;">row 79; BO all sts but last 2. knit a 3" i-cord, pull yarn through loops to 'seal'. cut yarn, leaving a 6" ort so tail to sew i-cord to cloth. block & gift to a grandmoth that you know & LOVE!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">xo</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-57079123141558108962012-01-16T15:41:00.000-05:002012-01-16T15:41:11.530-05:00more of our handmade christmas (in january :)...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">wrapping up our handmade holidays posts... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> (get it??...'wrapping', tee, hee ;) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOvBwe7ijZI/TxSG5zocCFI/AAAAAAAAFf0/LQ5-Sdg_TTs/s1600/IMG_4610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOvBwe7ijZI/TxSG5zocCFI/AAAAAAAAFf0/LQ5-Sdg_TTs/s320/IMG_4610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0wgLwqfqzgU/TxSG62aujRI/AAAAAAAAFf8/cMqW1LtHYBA/s1600/IMG_4612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0wgLwqfqzgU/TxSG62aujRI/AAAAAAAAFf8/cMqW1LtHYBA/s320/IMG_4612.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
my sister-in-law terri, asked for dishcloths so i whipped her up a set in her favorite colors & with the potential theme of her favorite things. i say 'potential' because she said she "loves everything!" <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hUAEHdFB5SA/TxSGrgV31rI/AAAAAAAAFfc/UEFbddN1cWk/s1600/IMG_4606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hUAEHdFB5SA/TxSGrgV31rI/AAAAAAAAFfc/UEFbddN1cWk/s320/IMG_4606.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">so, i did a bit of (pattern) hunting & this is what i came up with...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sdwV0UueT0Q/TxSGyXEN1II/AAAAAAAAFfk/zERLwe4AdNQ/s1600/IMG_4602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sdwV0UueT0Q/TxSGyXEN1II/AAAAAAAAFfk/zERLwe4AdNQ/s320/IMG_4602.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AF4FDsZqRKc/TxSG0bYKbLI/AAAAAAAAFfs/t7W5_eyifXE/s1600/IMG_4603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AF4FDsZqRKc/TxSG0bYKbLI/AAAAAAAAFfs/t7W5_eyifXE/s320/IMG_4603.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> this is my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/lacy-mock-cable-dishcloth-4">all-time favorite</a> dishcloth pattern, it is gorgeous...no?? i knit one for terri (pink) & one for my grandma as well...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMY22u43D34/TxSHH-4TuhI/AAAAAAAAFgE/1qPH5BProgI/s1600/IMG_4554_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMY22u43D34/TxSHH-4TuhI/AAAAAAAAFgE/1qPH5BProgI/s320/IMG_4554_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/michigan-square-cloth">'her hometown'</a> is michigan, so this one is definitely a perfect addition to the set...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-93bvrjN28yg/TxSHQmpaxXI/AAAAAAAAFgM/7DxlJ3Y_GNM/s1600/IMG_4598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-93bvrjN28yg/TxSHQmpaxXI/AAAAAAAAFgM/7DxlJ3Y_GNM/s320/IMG_4598.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
and a (second) <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/diagonal-owl-dishcloth">sweet owl</a> version, as everyone i know LOVES owls!! i knit 2 of this one...one for terri & one for, well...us! ;) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fldv4tEXdyc/TxSHmP-cdrI/AAAAAAAAFgU/GiINThz3Gwk/s1600/IMG_4526_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fldv4tEXdyc/TxSHmP-cdrI/AAAAAAAAFgU/GiINThz3Gwk/s320/IMG_4526_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
i really liked the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/mini-owl-washcloth">seed stitch owl</a> that i made for the littles, so made one more of those in blue for grandma as well.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dYxll1PhzU/TwNkdPpRn4I/AAAAAAAAFds/hgCtjQuPI9s/s1600/IMG_4558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dYxll1PhzU/TwNkdPpRn4I/AAAAAAAAFds/hgCtjQuPI9s/s320/IMG_4558.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
these <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/mini-mitts-9">cat-tastic</a> mitts are for my niece, who LOVES everything cat-ish...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f7kYBiZxwqg/TwNkeXgTRiI/AAAAAAAAFd0/1gAMLpd-Pg8/s1600/IMG_4560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f7kYBiZxwqg/TwNkeXgTRiI/AAAAAAAAFd0/1gAMLpd-Pg8/s320/IMG_4560.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">used my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mini-mitts-4">mini mitt</a> pattern & added on felted sweater bits to make the paws. was inspired by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cat-headband-and-wrist-warmers">this</a> lion brand pattern...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bm-dKvtgVF0/TwNkfVkRFVI/AAAAAAAAFd8/7XbGQOzlMVw/s1600/IMG_4567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bm-dKvtgVF0/TwNkfVkRFVI/AAAAAAAAFd8/7XbGQOzlMVw/s320/IMG_4567.JPG" width="295" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">introducing the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/steggie">'black dragon'</a>, aydin's yule sweater of choice. it took right @ 24 hours to make, but he wears is all the time, so very much worth it!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsWPrMRwuEI/TwNkghic_kI/AAAAAAAAFeE/ydZNpSi5Qis/s1600/IMG_4568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsWPrMRwuEI/TwNkghic_kI/AAAAAAAAFeE/ydZNpSi5Qis/s320/IMG_4568.JPG" width="288" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
definitely got the intarsia things down, as well, after this one...;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CN_KG2FInY/TwNkkKtO6BI/AAAAAAAAFeM/2nQjRv2P8f0/s1600/IMG_4569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7CN_KG2FInY/TwNkkKtO6BI/AAAAAAAAFeM/2nQjRv2P8f0/s320/IMG_4569.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
hmmm...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1scs64z8Dm8/TwypBeJ868I/AAAAAAAAFec/YPLgKwE8DzA/s1600/IMG_4584_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1scs64z8Dm8/TwypBeJ868I/AAAAAAAAFec/YPLgKwE8DzA/s320/IMG_4584_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/gap-tastic-cowl">sleek</a>", a gap-tastic cowl for my mom (well, technically mother-in-law)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">took just a smidge under 3 skeins & right @ 9 hours to knit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SB_1-NKuHFw/TwypE_FXOLI/AAAAAAAAFek/xdZQjLsNtDE/s1600/IMG_4595_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SB_1-NKuHFw/TwypE_FXOLI/AAAAAAAAFek/xdZQjLsNtDE/s320/IMG_4595_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i am wondering is she'll love it as much as i had wanted her too. she is smaller than me, by a good 6" & this thing comes to my hips. so, i can picture her being completely swallowed up by it. :(</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">my husband says she'll love it & i just don't know how to wear it. this might well be true as i am ridiculous like that. ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxxxFCDR3_s/TwypO7ZBdGI/AAAAAAAAFe0/IOunDl1EeqE/s1600/IMG_4597_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxxxFCDR3_s/TwypO7ZBdGI/AAAAAAAAFe0/IOunDl1EeqE/s320/IMG_4597_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">it does feel super squishy & warm & those are both very good things, right??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i feel like i should re-knit this on size #13s, as that would probably take off the bonus 6"... as in the difference between jan's (the creator's) length (to her bellybutton) & mine (to da' hip).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">guess, i'll give it a go & include a note that i can re-do shorter or thinner, etc & see what she says.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>i just think that my m-i-l is too polite to say anything. :(</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and lastly, for now anyway, is the dual name hat i knit for crystal...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_0MYAcyLXlc/TxSJDGj3KeI/AAAAAAAAFgc/HYqj5eCBt74/s1600/IMG_4621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_0MYAcyLXlc/TxSJDGj3KeI/AAAAAAAAFgc/HYqj5eCBt74/s320/IMG_4621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> it has two names because both are so perfect that i can't seem to decide which one to go with...so went with them both! "shhhh....it's a secret (pocket)" </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
i tacked down 3 of the 4 sides to create a secret pocket!! crystal said that it would be the perfect size for her ipod nano...also poisonwood green. ;)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yG3zVfQqNDM/TxSJENxvxRI/AAAAAAAAFgk/zWyy8sF3VWg/s1600/IMG_4620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yG3zVfQqNDM/TxSJENxvxRI/AAAAAAAAFgk/zWyy8sF3VWg/s320/IMG_4620.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the "poisonwood" part comes from the yarns own colorway (aka poison"), but also because i just happen to be reading the <em>poisonwood bible</em> for our book club. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">hooray for holiday hand knits...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">still have 4 more to go, i think...some really cool convertible mitts variations, and a special something for my sista'. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">xo</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-9497718513473225662012-01-10T16:55:00.001-05:002012-01-10T17:04:59.952-05:00workin' through it all...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Njf2mkUhFGg/Twy1OYTjptI/AAAAAAAAFfM/ekE-M0X--p8/s1600/169031_1744287643323_1122703218_31989958_2153248_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Njf2mkUhFGg/Twy1OYTjptI/AAAAAAAAFfM/ekE-M0X--p8/s320/169031_1744287643323_1122703218_31989958_2153248_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">last december a friend recommended a few books to me. one of which was byron katie's "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Loving-What-Four-Questions-Change/dp/1400045371/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1326230621&sr=8-2">loving what is</a>". </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">once i got my hands on a copy of this book, i more of less devoured it & bought a copy of my own (returning the other to our local library).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">her philosophy is simple & pure & as much as i tried to argue with it in the beginning, i couldn't. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">she says things that i have heard said a million different ways, but her way is so down-to-earth, logical that it resonated with me more or less instantaneously.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">now, a quick bit of background on books & me... i had to sort of take a break from reading books for a bit, as each new book i read became my new mantra. i am <em>very</em> good @ seeing all sides of a story & also <em>very</em> good @ trusting others before myself. (boo!) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQU1BpTJETA/TwyznB7ZHuI/AAAAAAAAFe8/daRsIXUTXDQ/s1600/IMG_4158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQU1BpTJETA/TwyznB7ZHuI/AAAAAAAAFe8/daRsIXUTXDQ/s320/IMG_4158.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">her book, though it does present her outlook on life, is definitely<em> self</em> help.... she just presents the concept of inquiry, which is the act of questioning our thoughts & asking 'is that true?'. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">you might be surprised how much we alter reality with our thinking. by arguing with reality, as in thinking that is should be anything other than it is, is where our pain, frustration, aggravation, etc comes from.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">after reading her first book, i discovered that she has quite a few more. so, i checked out the second one form our library & added it to my book swap wish list. ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i thought i would share some bits & pieces with you as i read & work through it, parts that really make me pause & reflect on their meaning in my life & may well speak to you as well...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TnLZegb4PcE/Twy1VmYntDI/AAAAAAAAFfU/p2nIrLJyfic/s1600/IMG_4155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TnLZegb4PcE/Twy1VmYntDI/AAAAAAAAFfU/p2nIrLJyfic/s320/IMG_4155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">so, thus begins our journey through "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Need-Your-Love-Approval-Appreciation/dp/0307345300/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326230589&sr=8-1">i need your love -- is that true??"</a> (byron katie)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>daytime reality check: everything supports me</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">"...suppose you've eaten your breakfast, sat down in your favorite chair & picked up this book.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">your neck supports your head. the bones & muscles of you chest support your breathing. the earth supports the building you live in. various stars & planets hold the earth in orbit. outside your window a man walks his dog. can you be sure that he isn't playing a role in your support?? he may work everyday in a cubicle, filing papers for the power company that makes your lights come on.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">among the people you see on the street & the countless hands & eyes working behind the scenes, can you be sure than there isn't anyone who isn't supporting your existence??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">the same question applies to the generations of ancestors who preceded you & to the various plants & animals that had something to do with your breakfast. how many unlikely coincidences all you to be here? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">to explore this for a while, look around you & see if there is anything that you can say for sure <em>doesn't </em>play some role in supporting you. now look again @ the 3 a.m thought "nothing supports me without my efforts." wouldn't it be truer to say, "everyhting supports me without my efforts??" the truth is that here you are, sitting in your chair, doing nothing & begin fully supported.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">everything supports you whether or not you even notice it, whether or not you think about it or understand it, whether or not you love it or hate it, whether or not you're happy or sad, asleep or awake, motivated or unmotivated. it just supports you without asking for anything in return....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">complicated & intricate as your requirements are for existence might be, they are all being met. @ this moment, there is nothing you need, nothing you need to do. notice how it feels to that in that thought.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">now think of something you <em>don't</em> have.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>this thought that kicks you out of heaven.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">the thought that kicks you our of heaven could be "i'd be a little more comfortable if i had a pillow." or it could be "i'd be happier if my partner were here."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">without that thought you're in heaven -- just sitting in your chair, being supported. when you believe the thought that something is missing, what do you experience?? the immediate effect might be subtle -- only a slight restlessness as your attention moves away from what you already have. but with that shift of attention, you give up the peace you have as you sit in your chair. by seeking comfort, your give yourself discomfort."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">byron katie, 'i need you love -- is that true??" (pages 8 - 9)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-35172455263866962942012-01-02T12:24:00.001-05:002012-01-02T12:25:00.669-05:00a little bit of everything & an introduction...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">another holiday post...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the second to last in fact, as i have a few work in progresses that i hope to have finished up & mailed within the next week or so.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PHtMBfNdSi0/TvzXVwGdFhI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/v88469J1WTI/s1600/IMG_4520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PHtMBfNdSi0/TvzXVwGdFhI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/v88469J1WTI/s320/IMG_4520.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">one of the best loved christmas gifts that we received this year were these gorgeous <a href="http://www.novanatural.com/toys/building/rainbow-blocks">rainbow blocks</a>, from nova natural...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">each one of our children, from our 2 year old up to our 11 year old have been building beautiful & unique towers, castles, & sculptures ever since they were opened on christmas eve!</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/-OeWClWk8oUo/TvzXau8FbvI/AAAAAAAAFbY/nG-248xuy08/s1600/IMG_4522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OeWClWk8oUo/TvzXau8FbvI/AAAAAAAAFbY/nG-248xuy08/s320/IMG_4522.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">one of ehren's castles, complete with a tunnel for his car...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RdXf0zc2kcs/TvzXgboxwVI/AAAAAAAAFbg/XGnnAssBKWE/s1600/398842_2769683557580_1122703218_33005580_1703521332_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RdXf0zc2kcs/TvzXgboxwVI/AAAAAAAAFbg/XGnnAssBKWE/s1600/398842_2769683557580_1122703218_33005580_1703521332_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">orin's person...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yGuaK0P8ZJ8/TwDWsXY7E_I/AAAAAAAAFco/sYs6pY5S-Ps/s1600/IMG_4532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yGuaK0P8ZJ8/TwDWsXY7E_I/AAAAAAAAFco/sYs6pY5S-Ps/s320/IMG_4532.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">oh my, & santa brought this on christmas morning. isn't it amazing!?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnQfkDAywSo/TwDXFUevj2I/AAAAAAAAFdY/5r7JarS6_90/s1600/395414_2776279682479_1122703218_33009212_413174539_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnQfkDAywSo/TwDXFUevj2I/AAAAAAAAFdY/5r7JarS6_90/s1600/395414_2776279682479_1122703218_33009212_413174539_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">a handmade table & chair set for our littles...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3UB8ilzflI/TwDWweMpZzI/AAAAAAAAFcw/vgxAZqvikB8/s1600/IMG_4537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3UB8ilzflI/TwDWweMpZzI/AAAAAAAAFcw/vgxAZqvikB8/s320/IMG_4537.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">custom from<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1619480312"> totem </a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/totemwoodworks?ref=ss_profile">wood</a>works...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pg6j9HeTqko/TwDWzM55UNI/AAAAAAAAFc4/3rQC1mvLajc/s1600/IMG_4536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pg6j9HeTqko/TwDWzM55UNI/AAAAAAAAFc4/3rQC1mvLajc/s320/IMG_4536.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">it is so much sturdier than anything i could have found in a shop, and handmade to boot! definitely an heirloom if there ever was one...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mE2FxHFiBWY/TvzXjsj1htI/AAAAAAAAFbo/2thJtAGCdvM/s1600/IMG_4526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mE2FxHFiBWY/TvzXjsj1htI/AAAAAAAAFbo/2thJtAGCdvM/s320/IMG_4526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">okay, these aren't exactly christmas gifts, but our littles love playing with rags in the bath. until i have given them various washcloths. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MaY2A2Fflrk/TvzXmVe1xYI/AAAAAAAAFbw/N9ZB9d4zz5g/s1600/IMG_4527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MaY2A2Fflrk/TvzXmVe1xYI/AAAAAAAAFbw/N9ZB9d4zz5g/s320/IMG_4527.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but while searching for dishcloth patterns for a certain sister-in-law's christmas basket, i came across this <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/mini-owl-washcloth">sweet owl patterned cloth</a>. & it is smaller than most, so even more perfect for our young ones.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">ok & if you aren't sold on them yet, they use only .4 oz of yarn! can you <em>possibly</em> think of a better knit to use up your littlest cotton niblets?? i think not. ;)</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csIorXz8SIM/TwDW0OxygiI/AAAAAAAAFdA/nqHWaW9keCA/s1600/396327_2776295122865_1122703218_33009223_410591645_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-csIorXz8SIM/TwDW0OxygiI/AAAAAAAAFdA/nqHWaW9keCA/s1600/396327_2776295122865_1122703218_33009223_410591645_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">and lastly i would like to introduce miss maya to you...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBmDRX3ATCY/TwDW6AkmKNI/AAAAAAAAFdI/cZkLn7oBcJM/s1600/IMG_4547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBmDRX3ATCY/TwDW6AkmKNI/AAAAAAAAFdI/cZkLn7oBcJM/s320/IMG_4547.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">she is a golder retrieve pup, 6 months old, that we adopted from the yancey county animal shelter, december 30th.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">we had a golder retriever about 7 years ago, and she was such an integral part of our family. so much love! however, she was hit by a car when she was just 3 years old. we have spent the last 4 years, well, yearning i suppose for another retriever. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">they are so sweet & amazing family dogs, so good with kids (not so much with the chickens, but i am sure that will mellow out @ some point ;).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">we thought about getting another one this past summer; we thought that we were ready, but we weren't. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">dogs are like children & if you have ever loved & lost then you know what i mean by this. they bring so much love, life & personality toour lives that it can be very emotional to think of 'replacing' them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">we kept talking about it though...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">when we went to Florida this past september, it seemed as though <em>every</em>one has a golder retriever & i took that to be a sign. but we still didn't want to rush into anything...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i just happen to look on petfinder.com this past thursday (it's harmless to look, right?? ;) for a golden retriever pup & there she was & in burnsville no less (about 30 min from us).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">however, we just knew that she wouldn't be there when we arrived, it would have been too good to be true, you know?? but she was & the attraction was immediate. she went with us out to their puppy play yard & it was just a perfect fit.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">& the rest is history, as they say, right??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i thought our house was full of love before, but now it just emanates... our house is so much happier with maya & i am thankful to have been able to give a sweet dog a home that, well, might have had a different future...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">blessings to each of you in this new year!! xo</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-71859336932361958682011-12-29T16:38:00.002-05:002011-12-29T16:51:10.855-05:00*free pattern friday*, why not, right??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>MINI MITTS</strong></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/-aC7OyJxjr0M/TvzZt-cdUwI/AAAAAAAAFb8/br0sBW3i48o/s1600/il_570xN.250766730%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aC7OyJxjr0M/TvzZt-cdUwI/AAAAAAAAFb8/br0sBW3i48o/s320/il_570xN.250766730%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">i have been making these mini mitts since last christmas, but for some reason never set up a pattern for them.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JGqhGdJfmZ0/TvzZvKWnfMI/AAAAAAAAFcE/A8cUHWmCmKg/s1600/il_570xN.250802025%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JGqhGdJfmZ0/TvzZvKWnfMI/AAAAAAAAFcE/A8cUHWmCmKg/s320/il_570xN.250802025%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">well, after modifying the pattern this christmas to include a larger size, i decided the time has come...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">please enjoy & let me know if there is any part of the pattern that could use a bit of tweaking/rewording, etc... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MIDHVLtfKA/TvzZxGESsnI/AAAAAAAAFcM/JjnxFjvLHdU/s1600/il_570xN.296549724%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MIDHVLtfKA/TvzZxGESsnI/AAAAAAAAFcM/JjnxFjvLHdU/s320/il_570xN.296549724%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXAUAyVR43A/TvzZyexYZiI/AAAAAAAAFcU/TH9ctQoegZg/s1600/il_570xN.296411201%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXAUAyVR43A/TvzZyexYZiI/AAAAAAAAFcU/TH9ctQoegZg/s320/il_570xN.296411201%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> <strong><u><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mini-mitts-4">mini mitts</a></u></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">(click on title for ravelry link ;)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>sizes available:</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">small, fits ages 2-5 years +/-</div><div style="text-align: center;">large, fits ages 6-9 years +/-</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>*notes for size large are in parenthesis*</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>materials needed:</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">worsted weight yarn of you choosing,</div><div style="text-align: center;">(40-80 yds)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">us #6 dpn needles (for small) </div><div style="text-align: center;">us #7 dpn needles (for large)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">2 place markers & a tapestry needle for weaving in ends</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>abbreviations:</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">kfb, knit front & back of stitch</div><div style="text-align: center;">pm, place marker</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*******</div><div style="text-align: center;">using long tail cast on, cast on 28 sts, both sizes</div><div style="text-align: center;">divide on to needles as follows:</div><div style="text-align: center;">8 sts on needles #1 & 3, 12 sts on needles #2</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">join for knitting in the round</div><div style="text-align: center;">begin knitting in k2p2 ribbing for 1.5" (2")</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">switch to stockinette & knit for 1" (1.5")</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">begin increases for thumb:</div><div style="text-align: center;">round 1: k2, kfb, pm, knit to last 3 sts, pm, kfb, k2 (30 sts)</div><div style="text-align: center;">round 2: knit plain</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">repeat these two rows 3x (4x), 36 sts (38sts), <strong>ending with an inc round</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;">next round, knit around plain to 2nd pm, remove marker, k3 sts, BO next 8 (10) sts (28 sts)</div><div style="text-align: center;">knit to end of rnd</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">knit in k2, p2 ribbing for 1" (1.5")</div><div style="text-align: center;">BO all sts in ribbing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">weave in ends & gift to a toddler/child who you adore!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">happy knitting loves, xo</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939620230559881081.post-70780473107938300522011-12-28T15:53:00.000-05:002011-12-28T15:53:12.029-05:00a bit of christmas gifting...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i promised grandma that we would post lots pf photos of the children opening their gifts, as she & grandpa terry couldn't be here to celebrate with us...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i also want to share photos of the christmas sweaters that i knit for the children this year...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">so, without further ado...;)</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/-9mnmCRi_5Vo/Tvt8UFahwXI/AAAAAAAAFbE/E57i6nr_UVU/s1600/IMG_1915%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9mnmCRi_5Vo/Tvt8UFahwXI/AAAAAAAAFbE/E57i6nr_UVU/s1600/IMG_1915%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the older two each got a digital camera & have been on a dueling photo battle ever since! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kK5S_FFxA1U/TvpBLru8JQI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/Dq_C8xx5gEQ/s1600/IMG_4477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kK5S_FFxA1U/TvpBLru8JQI/AAAAAAAAFXQ/Dq_C8xx5gEQ/s320/IMG_4477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
aydin, our resident inventor, got a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0018OXZF4/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000GG7XXK&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1GGKAW40ANW4HHKC3J05">snap rover</a>. a super cool snap, together way to create all sorts of cool gadgets!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMmiM-f24mE/TvpBS5_SWCI/AAAAAAAAFXY/5dDEmAMba9c/s1600/IMG_4470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OMmiM-f24mE/TvpBS5_SWCI/AAAAAAAAFXY/5dDEmAMba9c/s320/IMG_4470.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezmdK11dDvQ/TvpBYSng4aI/AAAAAAAAFXg/NWSKGjmKZTY/s1600/IMG_4479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezmdK11dDvQ/TvpBYSng4aI/AAAAAAAAFXg/NWSKGjmKZTY/s320/IMG_4479.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">a new raincoat for ev...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">this color looks amazing on her (i think ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc1jytJ3X9Q/TvpEFNgSc0I/AAAAAAAAFYg/6XyABCF0sUI/s1600/402380_2758243511586_1122703218_32999272_2088351300_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc1jytJ3X9Q/TvpEFNgSc0I/AAAAAAAAFYg/6XyABCF0sUI/s320/402380_2758243511586_1122703218_32999272_2088351300_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
oh & here is my sister samantha (aka sk), who was recently reunited with a lost soul from her past...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-1MnNymma8/TvpBbM8xXMI/AAAAAAAAFX4/O6dvFcIk454/s1600/IMG_4489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-1MnNymma8/TvpBbM8xXMI/AAAAAAAAFX4/O6dvFcIk454/s320/IMG_4489.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
black kitty! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">there is a long story behind this one, but basically this was her favorite stuffed animal when she was little, you know the one that we each had & would take e<em>very</em>where with us??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">one day she disappeared, never to be heard from again, until christmas eve. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gJgNn-gig4/TvpEKuFy2iI/AAAAAAAAFZA/JjsKw2r5_Hs/s1600/409146_2758245511636_1122703218_32999276_1914316758_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gJgNn-gig4/TvpEKuFy2iI/AAAAAAAAFZA/JjsKw2r5_Hs/s320/409146_2758245511636_1122703218_32999276_1914316758_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6XEq0Qo9VM/TvpF4mHdJQI/AAAAAAAAFZU/q-QwJieJXls/s1600/IMG_4499_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6XEq0Qo9VM/TvpF4mHdJQI/AAAAAAAAFZU/q-QwJieJXls/s320/IMG_4499_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">knit lovelies from aunt sk & mama...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">sk made each of the littles a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lyon-hat">lyon hat</a>, which they love! perhaps even moreso because they *match* (these two are very much into being twins right now, donning the same accessories, etc...very cute!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8H0v8fDcMHg/TvpF6KMp5nI/AAAAAAAAFZc/rmsoqxeS-PY/s1600/IMG_4484_medium2%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8H0v8fDcMHg/TvpF6KMp5nI/AAAAAAAAFZc/rmsoqxeS-PY/s320/IMG_4484_medium2%255B1%255D.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">ehren's "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/ragman">thing one</a>" sweater... it fits him perfectly!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-snz3gAs4Qn4/TvpF-5noEdI/AAAAAAAAFZs/PqMZud9n3Pk/s1600/IMG_4507_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-snz3gAs4Qn4/TvpF-5noEdI/AAAAAAAAFZs/PqMZud9n3Pk/s320/IMG_4507_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">ev's "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/nova">evalinda</a>" (aka nova), also a perfect fit! ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M1rFz2TnznQ/TvpF-HeYudI/AAAAAAAAFZk/yIoJ_4Uf9Fk/s1600/IMG_4505_medium2%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M1rFz2TnznQ/TvpF-HeYudI/AAAAAAAAFZk/yIoJ_4Uf9Fk/s320/IMG_4505_medium2%255B1%255D.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7HFyP3I7jj8/TvpBb4URIwI/AAAAAAAAFYA/8RbPW8n_AWA/s1600/IMG_4501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7HFyP3I7jj8/TvpBb4URIwI/AAAAAAAAFYA/8RbPW8n_AWA/s320/IMG_4501.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">close up of ehren's "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/skoontz/lyon-hat-3">rainbow high five hat</a>"...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Cwo5WNRSYY/TvpBc608kTI/AAAAAAAAFYI/lMG0vZvCYv4/s1600/IMG_4502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Cwo5WNRSYY/TvpBc608kTI/AAAAAAAAFYI/lMG0vZvCYv4/s320/IMG_4502.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">& one of ev's "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/skoontz/lyon-hat-2">aphrodite's helm</a>"...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZpnle0sva4/TvpECtqQgMI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/fJCJc3aTd_c/s1600/388456_2758281152527_1122703218_32999314_120010650_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZpnle0sva4/TvpECtqQgMI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/fJCJc3aTd_c/s320/388456_2758281152527_1122703218_32999314_120010650_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">a super cute christmas dress for ev...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s7qG6urp6vM/TvpED-F7D8I/AAAAAAAAFYY/TW_otuRJpAA/s1600/388952_2758264312106_1122703218_32999307_433973095_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s7qG6urp6vM/TvpED-F7D8I/AAAAAAAAFYY/TW_otuRJpAA/s320/388952_2758264312106_1122703218_32999307_433973095_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">a solar powered race car for bean bean...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SGfx7M_bIJI/TvpEICRxtJI/AAAAAAAAFYw/DHiR_NjVCkc/s1600/IMG_4517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SGfx7M_bIJI/TvpEICRxtJI/AAAAAAAAFYw/DHiR_NjVCkc/s320/IMG_4517.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">'fruit fly' (aka butterfly) wings for ev...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3eEqfswGaZA/TvpEJV2OyeI/AAAAAAAAFY4/DO8IPGJNmI4/s1600/IMG_4518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3eEqfswGaZA/TvpEJV2OyeI/AAAAAAAAFY4/DO8IPGJNmI4/s320/IMG_4518.JPG" width="291" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifiMVdRGNMk/TvpELnWQTnI/AAAAAAAAFZI/GVpshSQwWTw/s1600/409581_2758275192378_1122703218_32999310_411156308_n%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifiMVdRGNMk/TvpELnWQTnI/AAAAAAAAFZI/GVpshSQwWTw/s320/409581_2758275192378_1122703218_32999310_411156308_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i got papa a pair of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bogs-Mens-Classic-Ultra-Black/dp/B001A5LRV0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325105170&sr=8-1">bogs</a> as i had caught him swiping mine, pink/purple paisleys & all... ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AemBt9VlruI/TvpG92KGm8I/AAAAAAAAFZ4/OzpqIv_HoCM/s1600/IMG_4508_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AemBt9VlruI/TvpG92KGm8I/AAAAAAAAFZ4/OzpqIv_HoCM/s320/IMG_4508_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
& lastly orin, hamming...ahem, i mean 'modeling' his <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/jtkoontz/military-cardigan">military cardigan</a>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n0s_itHwexw/TvpG-wiOxSI/AAAAAAAAFaA/sFQve2u8B8I/s1600/IMG_4512_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n0s_itHwexw/TvpG-wiOxSI/AAAAAAAAFaA/sFQve2u8B8I/s320/IMG_4512_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">i still am unsure about the colors, but man is he absolutely LOVING this sweater!! </div><div style="text-align: center;">he has worn it pretty much non-stop since opening is on christmas eve.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D10ih2UeQQs/TvpG_9-fs9I/AAAAAAAAFaI/OOz4DjFXufo/s1600/IMG_4513_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D10ih2UeQQs/TvpG_9-fs9I/AAAAAAAAFaI/OOz4DjFXufo/s320/IMG_4513_medium%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">also, overheard him telling a friend about it..."my mom made this sweater, she<em> made</em> it..." i am LOVIN' it!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">i will add a few more photos @ some point this week. still have a few more lovelies to share, one of which is aydin's "black dragon' sweater. ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">until then...happy holiday!!</div>Blue Skies & Dragonflieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03957844920918857107noreply@blogger.com1