Thursday, December 15, 2011

Waterlogged


This is the view from my window today.
We have had so much rain in the last 48 hrs and it is still pouring down, creating havoc in our communities and town. Our town has been put in a state of emergency and 110 people have been evacuated from their homes.

Whilst marooned inside the house I have managed to stay busy, and I finished a short sleeved cardigan this morning Design 26 from the book Noro Mini knits.



and my woven shawl/throw that I blogged about recently.





This dear little dove of peace is bringing me much pleasure. My friend Mary made one for each member of our small stitching and knitting group.
Mary has had a year of some frightening health issues, and has come through it with flying colours. She has been a huge inspiration to me this year as I have watched her live it all with courage and immense bravery and selflessness.

Meanwhile I am praying for this rain to cease !

Saturday, December 3, 2011

A Sea of Sounds

I see from my last post that it is has been three weeks since I wrote, and thinking about it , I realise that the only time I have used the Mac. is when I am checking the emails....a sorry state of affairs indeed !
My time has been completely taken up with music, music and more music.!!
The last three weekends I have been playing my violin in three different concerts, and the final is tonight.....Handels's Messiah.

There have been many, many hours of rehearsals and practices with my violin tucked up on my shoulder with it's sound so close to my ear, that even when I am asleep I have dreams that I am still playing.
 My violin sometimes seems as if it is a very dear friend who I cannot bear to be parted from for even a day.

Some of the highlights from the previous  concerts have been Vaughan Williams's The Lark Ascending, and The Wasp Overture, Mozart's Piano Concerto No.20., Schumann's Spring Symphony, Beethoven Symphony No.8., but I think my favorite is The Messiah with the trumpet coming in on the Hallelujah Chorus and Worthy is the Lamb at the very end. Soul stirring stuff at the very least.









Today I shall make time for a quiet hour at my weaving loom. This blanket is very nearly finished and reminds me of all things to do with the sea on a beautiful still, calm day.

A simple tabby weave using laceweight and 4ply merino.

I hope you enjoy the links to all the music that has been filling my head recently.

Christmas will soon be here and this is always a favorite to listen to as I am making the mince pies.