tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36495510497321195072024-03-13T12:18:02.508+13:00Quite A HandfulSally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.comBlogger330125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-70959913117304077972015-05-16T17:39:00.002+12:002015-05-16T17:39:50.710+12:00Quill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STqzp99LT_I/VVbV-WJAs1I/AAAAAAAADu0/yH9VAzoXz2A/s1600/IMG_2705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-STqzp99LT_I/VVbV-WJAs1I/AAAAAAAADu0/yH9VAzoXz2A/s400/IMG_2705.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QYt9fhc_xD4/VVbWQboUsOI/AAAAAAAADu8/Evqncxfwk7M/s1600/IMG_2689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QYt9fhc_xD4/VVbWQboUsOI/AAAAAAAADu8/Evqncxfwk7M/s400/IMG_2689.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In the summertime I was knitting frantically for a new family member due to arrive in early May. The shawl is named Quill and is a design by Jared Flood...a real joy to knit.<br />
<br />
A shawl for our latest granddaughter born on the 29th April...a little early and so full of cuteness !<br />
Because she lives in New York, I have only met her on Skype and daily updates on her progress, but I am heading that way in a few months...can't wait !!Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-30372118280536374792015-04-25T12:54:00.000+12:002015-04-25T13:02:26.891+12:00Flowerpot Quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wlmoo7e5PXw/VTrkzplFeQI/AAAAAAAADuI/OrxZIy22m7o/s1600/IMG_3017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wlmoo7e5PXw/VTrkzplFeQI/AAAAAAAADuI/OrxZIy22m7o/s1600/IMG_3017.jpg" height="400" width="336" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m0ERpqY5gU/VTrlCWbR_dI/AAAAAAAADuQ/NU_iJyv_ecY/s1600/IMG_3032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2m0ERpqY5gU/VTrlCWbR_dI/AAAAAAAADuQ/NU_iJyv_ecY/s1600/IMG_3032.jpg" height="400" width="369" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It feels very good to have finished this quilt at long last. Cosy and colourful to sleep under for the coming winter months.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-36883038735234371952013-02-07T12:45:00.003+13:002013-02-07T12:45:49.475+13:00For Eve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BIkSTnpNbpI/URLduQWBfLI/AAAAAAAADkE/IaHZXm_46kc/s1600/IMG_1979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="590" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BIkSTnpNbpI/URLduQWBfLI/AAAAAAAADkE/IaHZXm_46kc/s640/IMG_1979.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2cZ9UkKszE/URLdDISCzUI/AAAAAAAADj8/cs1P4wvMrro/s1600/IMG_1978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2cZ9UkKszE/URLdDISCzUI/AAAAAAAADj8/cs1P4wvMrro/s640/IMG_1978.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My granddaughter Eve Rose is having a birthday very soon, and I have made her something special.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-koekgJF0CzI/URLp5xV_IpI/AAAAAAAADkU/Z-GnuQLB7G8/s1600/IMG_1981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-koekgJF0CzI/URLp5xV_IpI/AAAAAAAADkU/Z-GnuQLB7G8/s640/IMG_1981.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I really enjoyed making this nine-patch quilt and using all my scraps, it was fun to do.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ap5Z2eviYf4/URLrBcg2g6I/AAAAAAAADkc/lEWcqznhjbM/s1600/IMG_1990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ap5Z2eviYf4/URLrBcg2g6I/AAAAAAAADkc/lEWcqznhjbM/s640/IMG_1990.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-69170198131020820552013-02-05T20:13:00.002+13:002013-02-05T20:13:31.379+13:00A Possum PleaserA couple of weeks into January( when the days couldn't possibly be any hotter...wonderful, I might add) I discovered a beautiful scarf pattern, and had one of those moments when I thought "I am sure I could knit this in just a couple of weeks in plenty of time for a birthday coming soon"...but I was wrong.<br />
However I am carrying on regardless...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GYO_8G1r0K4/URCoNnYX8hI/AAAAAAAADjU/7Jcswy-Kiu4/s1600/IMG_1967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GYO_8G1r0K4/URCoNnYX8hI/AAAAAAAADjU/7Jcswy-Kiu4/s400/IMG_1967.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The pattern is gorgeous and very clever and using the possum wool makes it incredibly soft and warm.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fw9gYA8RSGE/URCvATz_x8I/AAAAAAAADjk/Q1EuhcCHvqc/s1600/IMG_1968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fw9gYA8RSGE/URCvATz_x8I/AAAAAAAADjk/Q1EuhcCHvqc/s400/IMG_1968.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I found the pattern here at<a href="http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2013/1/17/lauras-loop-reversible-stripes-scarf.html"> Purl Bee</a>. It's definitely not the sort of thing you should start knitting in the middle of summer, but....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9D5tkpEYj-8/URCvr0iIFUI/AAAAAAAADjs/kSOCrg8Nrbc/s1600/IMG_1969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9D5tkpEYj-8/URCvr0iIFUI/AAAAAAAADjs/kSOCrg8Nrbc/s400/IMG_1969.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I couldn't resist.</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: justify;">
I have another 65 inches or so to complete and I am determined for this not to become an UFO.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Watch this space !!</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;">
<br /></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;">
<br /></div>
Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-47774173063248690452012-12-22T11:26:00.000+13:002012-12-22T11:26:43.181+13:00Filey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wnR_iZpu9eg/UNTfTia01iI/AAAAAAAADhs/WdkQPKn-MiY/s1600/IMG_1743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wnR_iZpu9eg/UNTfTia01iI/AAAAAAAADhs/WdkQPKn-MiY/s320/IMG_1743.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Finished in time for a New Year's Eve birthday. The pattern is called Filey and is from Rowan magazine no.45. Made with Rowan Summer Tweed and was not an enjoyable knit....hence why I took so long over it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jqAOAMhNTMY/UNThVMJJ37I/AAAAAAAADh8/e3UWDjxc7Lg/s1600/IMG_1745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jqAOAMhNTMY/UNThVMJJ37I/AAAAAAAADh8/e3UWDjxc7Lg/s320/IMG_1745.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
However I do like the textured detail on the back and I hope He (the fussy one) will like it too, and will wear it more than once or twice !<br />
I might have to be patient for the cooler weather though to get that result.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-3037122284947161702012-12-20T09:01:00.002+13:002012-12-20T09:20:20.117+13:00Swallowtail Shawl<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9L7if9X-6Uo/UNIfSJ0_ZiI/AAAAAAAADhc/H_VMwLm5Er8/s1600/IMG_1742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9L7if9X-6Uo/UNIfSJ0_ZiI/AAAAAAAADhc/H_VMwLm5Er8/s400/IMG_1742.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I believe I first cast on for this shawl in 2006, which is when I received the pattern in the Interweave Knits magazine. I used a cashmere handspun yarn that I purchased in the UK...Devon Fine Fibres.</div>
<div>
After having knit through a third of it, I then packed it away in the window seat where I keep all my projects and stash of wool, and forgot about it for a few years !</div>
<div>
The other day when I was looking for my husband's unfinished vest ( I had thought I might complete it for his birthday on New Years Eve), I came across the shawl and the rest of the cashmere and all it took was a couple of evenings and a good audio book <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/28/lionel-shriver-so-much-for-that">(So Much For That by Lionel Shriver </a>)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MJHd9MRtpaU/UNIZ8Xo7BtI/AAAAAAAADhI/eKz9B3ydczI/s1600/IMG_1739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MJHd9MRtpaU/UNIZ8Xo7BtI/AAAAAAAADhI/eKz9B3ydczI/s400/IMG_1739.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I am sorry I have been absent for so much of this year. Violin playing and music exams have taken over the hours in my days, but I still hope to pop back from time to time.<br />
Seasons Greetings to you all !</div>
Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-13031164285742215072012-02-21T15:20:00.000+13:002012-02-21T15:20:07.045+13:00Mitered Crosses Blanket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OdcW8p0bByU/T0L5YKj6xKI/AAAAAAAADgY/ywcB-kF935A/s1600/IMG_1670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OdcW8p0bByU/T0L5YKj6xKI/AAAAAAAADgY/ywcB-kF935A/s400/IMG_1670.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Here I am again...you thought I had disappeared into oblivion, didn't you ?<br />
<br />
I am sorry about the infrequent posts, but I haven't been doing a lot of crafting type things lately, except for today when I finished this blanket.<br />
The pattern is from Kay Gardiner www.masondixonknitting.com. and I bought it on Ravelry last year, after the quake/tsunami in Japan. Kay donated all the proceeds from the sale of the pattern to Mercy Corps relief work.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7g_vCSXFC0/T0L6EyKddYI/AAAAAAAADgg/PZOglqPWvIg/s1600/IMG_1672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7g_vCSXFC0/T0L6EyKddYI/AAAAAAAADgg/PZOglqPWvIg/s400/IMG_1672.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I used Noro Silk Garden and knitted on 4mm needles. It was a lot of fun, and I am keen to make another perhaps using some of my handspun this time, but first I am going to try and finish some of the other projects I have in various bags all over the house !<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dOoOXt-7AYY/T0L-3Vef0TI/AAAAAAAADgo/Yxa2lbomsm8/s1600/IMG_1673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dOoOXt-7AYY/T0L-3Vef0TI/AAAAAAAADgo/Yxa2lbomsm8/s400/IMG_1673.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-52087756157569002872012-01-06T12:24:00.000+13:002012-01-06T12:53:34.806+13:002nd weekA very Happy New Year to everyone.<br />
<br />
Into the 2nd week of the new year tomorrow already, and the days go by, oh so fast !<br />
<br />
Tomorrow I am off to Auckland for the annual <a href="http://asqss.co.nz/">ASQSS, </a>and I am looking forward to a week of meeting up with old friends, lots of music, recitals, good food and some R and R.<br />
There is going to be more rain, but that won't dampen my mood, not one little bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qG4RkGbHHUg/TwY2NbBTvII/AAAAAAAADgQ/zl0KJXeA30c/s1600/IMG_1657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qG4RkGbHHUg/TwY2NbBTvII/AAAAAAAADgQ/zl0KJXeA30c/s400/IMG_1657.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Whilst away I always carry some knitting, and this year I am taking some 2ply merino and a cotton alpaca blend to make the<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hakusa"> Hakusa scarf</a> by Kirsten Johnstone. I purchased the pattern on Ravelry and have cast on already and have knitted a few rows so I will be able to knit whilst catching up with friends, without having to stop and count stitches.<br />
<br />
Have a great week and see you when I get back.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-16991707223211072942011-12-15T12:49:00.000+13:002011-12-15T13:10:13.983+13:00Waterlogged<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GvVokjYVYyU/TukwLIKkCdI/AAAAAAAADfo/bGYFcTCZo08/s1600/IMG_1574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GvVokjYVYyU/TukwLIKkCdI/AAAAAAAADfo/bGYFcTCZo08/s640/IMG_1574.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the view from my window today.<br />
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.<br />
<br />
Whilst marooned inside the house I have managed to stay busy, and I finished a short sleeved cardigan this morning <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/design-26-top-w-short-sleeves">Design 26</a> from the book Noro Mini knits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7zSTVwTsRA/TukyqLug5hI/AAAAAAAADgA/UCsvQiQdPgA/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7zSTVwTsRA/TukyqLug5hI/AAAAAAAADgA/UCsvQiQdPgA/s320/IMG_1552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
and my woven shawl/throw that I blogged about recently.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zw-MdbEuRQA/TukvXjeOYlI/AAAAAAAADfg/3P3YVjcHz98/s1600/IMG_1566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zw-MdbEuRQA/TukvXjeOYlI/AAAAAAAADfg/3P3YVjcHz98/s400/IMG_1566.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pgJyxUavg_A/TukxjdpDY1I/AAAAAAAADf4/wJdmSSk_wzw/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pgJyxUavg_A/TukxjdpDY1I/AAAAAAAADf4/wJdmSSk_wzw/s400/IMG_1568.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
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.<br />
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.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IXxqXVDNNzs/Tukw_b2K4EI/AAAAAAAADfw/keJnSROD4h0/s1600/IMG_1573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IXxqXVDNNzs/Tukw_b2K4EI/AAAAAAAADfw/keJnSROD4h0/s400/IMG_1573.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Meanwhile I am praying for this rain to cease !Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-77745844835879549062011-12-03T11:20:00.001+13:002011-12-03T12:33:47.642+13:00A Sea of SoundsI 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 !<br />
My time has been completely taken up with music, music and more music.!!<br />
The last three weekends I have been playing my violin in three different concerts, and the final is tonight.....Handels's Messiah.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
My violin sometimes seems as if it is a very dear friend who I cannot bear to be parted from for even a day.<br />
<br />
Some of the highlights from the previous concerts have been <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbcuteYm-EA">Vaughan Williams's The Lark Ascending,</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzlv8AX7sD8">The Wasp Overture</a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iARNzSLxK0c">, Mozart's Piano Concerto No.20.</a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xibUjsqjPy4">, Schumann's Spring Symphony,</a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-BO2QBZymY"> Beethoven Symphony No.8</a>., but I think my favorite is The Messiah with the trumpet coming in on the<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-BO2QBZymY"> Hallelujah Chorus</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f-BO2QBZymY">Worthy is the Lamb </a>at the very end. Soul stirring stuff at the very least.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0dmxYHlkWo/Ttlc9GJAeRI/AAAAAAAADfQ/k2YJNvnxRqI/s1600/IMG_1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0dmxYHlkWo/Ttlc9GJAeRI/AAAAAAAADfQ/k2YJNvnxRqI/s640/IMG_1547.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
A simple tabby weave using laceweight and 4ply merino.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gIS5npR4jxk/Ttldf3M4cSI/AAAAAAAADfY/WkBJayvDl1U/s1600/IMG_1545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gIS5npR4jxk/Ttldf3M4cSI/AAAAAAAADfY/WkBJayvDl1U/s640/IMG_1545.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I hope you enjoy the links to all the music that has been filling my head recently.<br />
<br />
Christmas will soon be here and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ucVQSJunR4&feature=fvst">this</a> is always a favorite to listen to as I am making the mince pies.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-44629597872987884472011-11-07T15:51:00.001+13:002011-11-07T15:51:37.021+13:00Wrapping up<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dpzKjscCdNk/Trc-u3G7WOI/AAAAAAAADe8/9d-JXh1XXvA/s1600/IMG_1536.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672071230484338914" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dpzKjscCdNk/Trc-u3G7WOI/AAAAAAAADe8/9d-JXh1XXvA/s640/IMG_1536.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I have finished knitting my first Christmas gift. It is the<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/simple-yet-effective-shawl-fingering-weight"> Simple Effective Shawl</a> pattern, and I used two skeins of Noro Silk Garden light. After the blocking I am going to wrap it up ready for Christmas, I might not be able to wait until then though ... I have become notorious for giving the gift as soon as it is ready !<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IlahrYA66KI/TrdDE2rU2AI/AAAAAAAADfI/kWItcw32ULU/s1600/IMG_1528.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672076006372202498" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IlahrYA66KI/TrdDE2rU2AI/AAAAAAAADfI/kWItcw32ULU/s640/IMG_1528.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--h2oH0sbvlQ/Trc9gQReLdI/AAAAAAAADek/9YoTu2ivKzw/s1600/IMG_1526.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672069880029785554" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--h2oH0sbvlQ/Trc9gQReLdI/AAAAAAAADek/9YoTu2ivKzw/s640/IMG_1526.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4iWkAx3HPM/Trc76NdfR0I/AAAAAAAADeY/cOhuvdq6ngo/s1600/IMG_1525.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672068126928226114" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4iWkAx3HPM/Trc76NdfR0I/AAAAAAAADeY/cOhuvdq6ngo/s640/IMG_1525.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L0N4_xNp-gw/Trc6tG_Y_lI/AAAAAAAADeM/k3FsrWlMUx8/s1600/IMG_1524.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672066802341445202" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L0N4_xNp-gw/Trc6tG_Y_lI/AAAAAAAADeM/k3FsrWlMUx8/s640/IMG_1524.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHmSslM3FME/Trc6XoW2QII/AAAAAAAADeA/01h3zZP9FJo/s1600/IMG_1523.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672066433341079682" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHmSslM3FME/Trc6XoW2QII/AAAAAAAADeA/01h3zZP9FJo/s640/IMG_1523.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a></div>
Here are some images from my garden taken this morning while I had a little wander outside. Every day now, I am seeing lots of little friends opening out, and coming to life again from their winter sleep. Such pleasures ......these gifts from the garden.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-73252179915862318162011-10-20T18:04:00.003+13:002011-10-20T18:04:47.340+13:00One for the boys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been power knitting the last few days, finishing a vest for the youngest boy in my family and trying to work on a vest for the more senior boy in my life.</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/-8v1NMuFfLdo/Tp-mrmSQR-I/AAAAAAAADck/cwWsZJaM_uA/s1600/IMG_1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8v1NMuFfLdo/Tp-mrmSQR-I/AAAAAAAADck/cwWsZJaM_uA/s640/IMG_1491.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Baby Leo has just turned one.</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/-t3-f4CEAyl0/Tp-pjMpdkMI/AAAAAAAADc8/mEDWcJS-rqA/s1600/IMG_1514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t3-f4CEAyl0/Tp-pjMpdkMI/AAAAAAAADc8/mEDWcJS-rqA/s640/IMG_1514.JPG" width="426" /></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: left;">
Vest was size two knitted in opal sock wool.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1VeJ62bzZHk/Tp-oy8_vijI/AAAAAAAADc0/vKXiUEjSEQY/s1600/IMG_1500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1VeJ62bzZHk/Tp-oy8_vijI/AAAAAAAADc0/vKXiUEjSEQY/s640/IMG_1500.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had just put the last stitch in and Leo turned up, right on cue</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/-yLQZ6NF1Zqw/Tp-nSQP1pPI/AAAAAAAADcs/1B8rNEwcMZA/s1600/IMG_1497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yLQZ6NF1Zqw/Tp-nSQP1pPI/AAAAAAAADcs/1B8rNEwcMZA/s640/IMG_1497.JPG" width="426" /></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: left;">
for a photo shoot. Isn't he lovely !!</div>
I shall show the other vest when it's done ...I don't know if the boy will be as obliging as Leo.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-12190449307634087302011-10-16T19:35:00.000+13:002011-10-16T20:49:33.905+13:00Earth, Sea and Sky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHNRhx-yNRA/Tpp32OBi9iI/AAAAAAAADb0/v_MKlwksEBs/s1600/DSCF1166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHNRhx-yNRA/Tpp32OBi9iI/AAAAAAAADb0/v_MKlwksEBs/s400/DSCF1166.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There's nothing</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bhC69LvxaXg/Tpp36PfujaI/AAAAAAAADb8/vnh8JxR-tYE/s1600/DSCF1167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bhC69LvxaXg/Tpp36PfujaI/AAAAAAAADb8/vnh8JxR-tYE/s400/DSCF1167.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
better</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UdLGoGDfyTY/Tpp6znqDK0I/AAAAAAAADcc/OrGT8uvxD80/s1600/DSCF1179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UdLGoGDfyTY/Tpp6znqDK0I/AAAAAAAADcc/OrGT8uvxD80/s400/DSCF1179.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
than 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/-t32ZF7f8m_c/Tpp5EO-5mgI/AAAAAAAADcM/A-CO9ogvMIw/s1600/DSCF1176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t32ZF7f8m_c/Tpp5EO-5mgI/AAAAAAAADcM/A-CO9ogvMIw/s400/DSCF1176.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
walk on the beach and a</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m5sBqpQvXTw/Tpp4rQ5GF-I/AAAAAAAADcE/Ia8LEcpKH0c/s1600/DSCF1170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m5sBqpQvXTw/Tpp4rQ5GF-I/AAAAAAAADcE/Ia8LEcpKH0c/s400/DSCF1170.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sandcastle to build.</div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-87509639552440022422011-10-06T17:28:00.002+13:002011-10-06T17:28:37.653+13:00Tiny Pleasures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lSFuOg9Uyug/To0n4OdV6VI/AAAAAAAADbw/pdYGHkm8DoQ/s1600/IMG_1471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lSFuOg9Uyug/To0n4OdV6VI/AAAAAAAADbw/pdYGHkm8DoQ/s640/IMG_1471.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
Taking time today to take a walk in the sunshine.<br />
<br />
To pick some flowers out of the garden,<br />
<br />
and to crochet a few more granny squares for this blanket in progress.<br />
I started this a year or so ago, and it had been put away when I was having one of my 'clean up' days.<br />
I was thoroughly inspired to make it when I looked at<a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/90319938@N00/"> Lucy's</a> ( Attic 24 ) flickr page and saw all her lovely blankets, and all the other beautiful work that has been crocheted by others that she has inspired and enthused.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LTbiw43fbe0/To0mbXJeqwI/AAAAAAAADbs/65hOzyaHMW8/s1600/IMG_1478.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5660222558186679042" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LTbiw43fbe0/To0mbXJeqwI/AAAAAAAADbs/65hOzyaHMW8/s640/IMG_1478.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I have used Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino. Some of these colors have been discontinued and I have had to choose some other colors so that I can finish it.<br />
It is supremely soft and cuddly.<br />
A good one for the Grandbabies to snuggle into when they come to visit.<br />
<br />
Thank you all so much for your thoughtful comments on little Basil's passing. He has featured in so many of our family stories in the last decade or so, and it feels really strange living here without his snuffly presence following me around.<br />
His little sidekick Billie is certainly feeling it, he has been very quiet this week, and keeps giving me a questioning look.<br />
I guess we will both get used to it in time.<br />
<br />Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-16233036327794058082011-10-04T12:57:00.010+13:002011-10-04T13:22:09.063+13:00Basil (March 1998 - October 2011)<p align="justify"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qpOQ5JuZFAw/TopPeIYcFWI/AAAAAAAADbk/G1LB8gXYUto/s1600/IMG_1160.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659423260809106786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 303px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qpOQ5JuZFAw/TopPeIYcFWI/AAAAAAAADbk/G1LB8gXYUto/s400/IMG_1160.JPG" border="0" /></a> A Dog Has Died<br /></p><em>Pablo Neruda<br /></em><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?title=A" target="_blank" u="'http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-dog-has-died/"></a><br />My dog has died<br />I buried him in the garden next to a rusted old machine.<br />Some day I'll join him right there, but now he's gone with his shaggy coat, his bad manners and his cold nose,and I, the materialist, who never believed in any promised heaven in the sky for any human being, I believe in a heaven I'll never enter.<br />Yes, I believe in a heaven for all dogdom where my dog waits for my arrival waving his fan-like tail in friendship.<br />Ai, I'll not speak of sadness here on earth, of having lost a companion who was never servile.<br />His friendship for me, like that of a porcupine withholding its authority, was the friendship of a star, aloof, with no more intimacy than was called for, with no exaggerations: he never climbed all over my clothes filling me full of his hair or his mange, he never rubbed up against my knee like other dogs obsessed with sex.<br />No, my dog used to gaze at me, paying me the attention I need, the attention required to make a vain person like me understand that, being a dog, he was wasting time, but, with those eyes so much purer than mine, he'd keep on gazing at me with a look that reserved for me alone all his sweet and shaggy life, always near me, never troubling me, and asking nothing.<br />Ai, how many times have I envied his tail as we walked together on the shores of the sea in the lonely winter of Isla Negra where the wintering birds filled the sky and my hairy dog was jumping about full of the voltage of the sea's movement: my wandering dog, sniffing away with his golden tail held high, face to face with the ocean's spray.<br />Joyful, joyful, joyful, as only dogs know how to be happy with only the autonomy of their shameless spirit.<br />There are no good-byes for my dog who has died, and we don't now and never did lie to each other. So now he's gone and I buried him, and that's all there is to it.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659421757138057234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 396px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U8NoABOAil0/TopOGmxUuBI/AAAAAAAADbc/8TRq8bZIk8Q/s400/IMG_1163.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><p></p>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-78236734226142574772011-09-30T18:06:00.010+13:002011-10-06T17:31:04.315+13:00Freesias<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MlfSrXJ7xHA/ToVKaCVal1I/AAAAAAAADao/jIESEiA8XsA/s1600/IMG_1466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MlfSrXJ7xHA/ToVKaCVal1I/AAAAAAAADao/jIESEiA8XsA/s640/IMG_1466.jpg" width="425" /></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: left;">
I couldn't resist sharing a photo of these fresias freshly cut from my garden.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XH_ZZMztH-M/ToVMUQzwLQI/AAAAAAAADas/Cy4f4T4FUMY/s1600/IMG_1468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XH_ZZMztH-M/ToVMUQzwLQI/AAAAAAAADas/Cy4f4T4FUMY/s400/IMG_1468.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The glass vase is one that was given to me recently by my daughter<a href="http://spoonandspatula.blogspot.com/"> Sarah</a>. It has a little wire cage at the top to hold the stems in place and I love it to bits. I know I shall probably use it every day from now on.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-44343471021354471002011-09-29T15:01:00.002+13:002011-09-29T15:05:04.308+13:00All Things Bright and Beautiful<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qrn0jx-GO5o/ToPLVXy7eAI/AAAAAAAADaI/rPY8pL9IiK8/s1600/IMG_1457.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657589124932794370" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qrn0jx-GO5o/ToPLVXy7eAI/AAAAAAAADaI/rPY8pL9IiK8/s640/IMG_1457.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is not often that I have a complete perfect day all to myself, a day when I don't have to jump in the car, wave goodbye to the dogs and whizz into town on ' matters of great importance'.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today is such a day, a bright and beautiful day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657588296561293762" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AZKfkfTdC7I/ToPKlJ3xecI/AAAAAAAADaA/OiSSIy5mh8E/s640/IMG_1450.JPG" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></div>
<div>
I decided to make some jam from the berries left over in the freezer from last Summer...Jumbleberry Jam made from strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and boysenberries.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I did some washing.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v6CIGPmC81I/ToPN-24XRgI/AAAAAAAADaQ/NhxmOLbikqc/s1600/IMG_1459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5657592036674979330" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v6CIGPmC81I/ToPN-24XRgI/AAAAAAAADaQ/NhxmOLbikqc/s640/IMG_1459.JPG" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We have had some visitors staying in the cottage, they came to see the Rugby World Cup, and they were so much fun. I was sad to see them drive off this morning.<br />
I love the smell of freshly washed white cotton sheets, another one of life's great pleasures.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uReQvDaTrw4/ToPP0eoTcqI/AAAAAAAADaU/97uFjc1A_9U/s1600/IMG_1453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uReQvDaTrw4/ToPP0eoTcqI/AAAAAAAADaU/97uFjc1A_9U/s640/IMG_1453.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A little more work on my applique quilt, and I still have several hours left this afternoon. I think it's warm enough to plant carrot seeds and some more sweet peas.<br />
Perfect !</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-54295361787978494272011-09-27T12:41:00.005+13:002011-09-27T13:06:05.160+13:00Dyeing with Weeds<div style="text-align: center;">My garden is producing both blooms and weeds in abundance, and I thought I would utilise the weeds for the dyepot before they were put into the compost.</div>My favourite weed at the moment is the little oxalis flower, also called Sour grass or Bermuda Buttercup and produces a brilliant lemony - lime colour without needing a mordant.<div><br /><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZ7CFXRlpxQ/ToEO6JFVEWI/AAAAAAAADZw/67-SYAWRitw/s400/IMG_1449.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656818998987526498" />I then added some madder powder to the dyepot and developed this colour which I don't like very much. When it was drying on the washingline outside, it hung there reminding me of the afterbirth that you see after a cow has just given birth. I might change this 'afterbirth' colour after I have spun it, although spinning might just improve it a little.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O1Igr_DbT4o/ToEQpOMLakI/AAAAAAAADZ4/WAtVNZ12dtE/s400/IMG_1444.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656820907323910722" /></div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-80726825943507932282011-09-25T21:28:00.004+13:002011-09-25T21:51:59.837+13:00Feeling Thankful<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lr-FsVyKglc/Tn7mhqzHGUI/AAAAAAAADZY/5-2IOLIiQSo/s1600/IMG_0791.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lr-FsVyKglc/Tn7mhqzHGUI/AAAAAAAADZY/5-2IOLIiQSo/s400/IMG_0791.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656211648122657090" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></a>These are some of my Mum's favorite flowers....English bluebells growing in my garden each year from some bulbs that my parent's had in their garden years ago.<div><br /><div>My Mum has recently been very ill indeed, and after some time in hospital, a life saving operation, two blood transfusions and IV nutrition she is rapidly becoming her old self once more.</div><div>Phew, to say I am happy and very relieved would probably be an understatement. !</div><div><br /></div><div>Yesterday, she travelled with us to our son's farm where we had a family barbeque and </div><div>Mum was able to take part in the celebration of her youngest great grandchild's first birthday.</div><div><br /></div><div>It has been a lovely weekend, and the blossom is still here, couldn't resist another picture.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VqGdwjrIFVA/Tn7pN_px5LI/AAAAAAAADZg/jUiO50ZxyzY/s400/IMG_0801.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656214608658162866" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></div></div><div>A very big heartfelt thank you to my children, and wonderful friends who have given so much love and support over the last stressful few months, you are all truly wonderful.</div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-47320160083551429522011-09-21T15:28:00.005+12:002011-09-21T16:07:58.247+12:00A Shawl for Sarah<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8gVki1Mr3x4/Tnlgk6Jo1nI/AAAAAAAADYw/lp5WKWc1gOk/s1600/IMG_1380.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654656994341607026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 314px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8gVki1Mr3x4/Tnlgk6Jo1nI/AAAAAAAADYw/lp5WKWc1gOk/s400/IMG_1380.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><br />Pattern : Fiber Trends Edged in Lace, design Evelyn Clark. Found on Ravelry.</div><br /><div>Wool : Indiecita DK, in a pretty dove grey.....100% baby alpaca<br /><br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1oYfmV8wsDQ/TnleLqN59RI/AAAAAAAADYg/eKbmvljRXAQ/s1600/IMG_1377.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654654361544553746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 251px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1oYfmV8wsDQ/TnleLqN59RI/AAAAAAAADYg/eKbmvljRXAQ/s400/IMG_1377.JPG" border="0" /></a> It is an easy knit, but knitting the lace edging took ages and ages !<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGDGVDduPgo/TnldE6ca5OI/AAAAAAAADYY/pMh4xYWzrp0/s1600/IMG_1376.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654653146129687778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 301px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CGDGVDduPgo/TnldE6ca5OI/AAAAAAAADYY/pMh4xYWzrp0/s400/IMG_1376.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>My youngest daughter came home on Saturday for a few days and fell in love with a very soft drapey shawl that I had finished a few weeks ago.</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654655263656182018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 270px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKIr1AAkNi8/TnlfAK2FAQI/AAAAAAAADYo/Piqh4FyDKks/s400/IMG_1379.JPG" border="0" /><br />It is Sarah's 24th birthday next week and it made a lovely gift to tuck in her bag for the cool nights in Wellington. Have a wonderful celebration Sarah !</div><br /><div><br /><div></div></div></div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-59227480205630200242011-09-19T19:28:00.005+12:002011-09-19T21:11:57.466+12:00Blogging and Blossom<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46jGGRgxTNI/TnbxRlPQdtI/AAAAAAAADYQ/bYM1syDv7B8/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653971666566411986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46jGGRgxTNI/TnbxRlPQdtI/AAAAAAAADYQ/bYM1syDv7B8/s400/IMG_1373.JPG" border="0" /></a> I'm back !<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5653970698521421394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jXSwN3lhtIQ/TnbwZO_WJlI/AAAAAAAADYI/_hzQOTGuHiI/s400/IMG_1375.JPG" border="0" /> It feels a bit strange to be back writing a post after so long, but I am excited and pleased to be here in this space once again.<br /><br /><br /><div>It has been too long a winter and my camera has sat on the shelf unused and neglected, it is time for a change, and Spring is in the air.</div><br /><br /><br /><div>I couldn't resist taking these pics from the blossom right outside our back door. The white is the blossom on our plum trees and the pink is a little almond tree.....they smell pretty good too.<br /></div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-78459237599486507142011-03-16T15:03:00.004+13:002011-03-16T18:19:39.741+13:00Intermission<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1waD6_G7ah0/TYAnF_Z9dsI/AAAAAAAADXc/9VS3WEy6JUA/s1600/IMG_1325.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 316px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584506521812563650" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1waD6_G7ah0/TYAnF_Z9dsI/AAAAAAAADXc/9VS3WEy6JUA/s400/IMG_1325.JPG" /></a><br /><div>I am having a break from blogging for a little while.</div><br /><div>It has been a wonderful time and I hope to return some time in the future.</div><br /><div>If you would like to see what I am getting up to in crafty things, you can still find me on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/12512662@N06/">flickr (</a> I am <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/quiteahandful/">quiteahandful</a> )and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/Sallyanne">ravelry.</a> ( I am <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/Sallyanne">Sallyanne</a> )</div><br /><div>Thank you for your love and friendship and interest. I have really enjoyed my time here getting to know you all and reading your stories and blogs.</div><div>Ka Kite Ano for now.</div><div></div>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-80947102724009103622011-03-10T15:07:00.002+13:002011-03-10T15:31:40.450+13:00A hands free bag<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7wrY1kiKpMI/TXgy2dP0b6I/AAAAAAAADXU/KQSJP522hWQ/s1600/IMG_1344.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582267649271033762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 286px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7wrY1kiKpMI/TXgy2dP0b6I/AAAAAAAADXU/KQSJP522hWQ/s400/IMG_1344.JPG" border="0" /></a>The other day I was browsing through some crochet patterns that I had put away with the usual "must do sometime" label attached, and found a great pattern for a bag to take when you are out walking or tramping.....for your essential knitting supplies of course,( just in case you wanted to stop and have a quick knitting fix ), and I would add my car keys, and an ipod as well.<br />This little bag can fit on to your belt or the handle of a violin case, and I am already thinking of many reasons why I need to make at least a dozen more.<br />You can find the pattern <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/34128.aspx">here </a>if you felt like making one and taking a break from all the half finished <em>big</em> projects lying around the house feeling sorry for themselves......I can hear their little voices calling me from the many doorhandles in the house "when is Sally going to finish me"..."hey, it's my turn next ".......soon, soon my lovelies !Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-41373606607552246472011-03-06T12:38:00.005+13:002011-03-06T16:42:40.309+13:00Quilt in a garden<div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E34IsGwADcE/TXLvGoFuLeI/AAAAAAAADXE/-56yTKIhV14/s1600/IMG_1298.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580785785385135586" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E34IsGwADcE/TXLvGoFuLeI/AAAAAAAADXE/-56yTKIhV14/s400/IMG_1298.JPG" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PkxA3nEIORU/TXLsv1jcjTI/AAAAAAAADW0/C_hpOCdHqzo/s1600/IMG_1285.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580783194839223602" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PkxA3nEIORU/TXLsv1jcjTI/AAAAAAAADW0/C_hpOCdHqzo/s400/IMG_1285.JPG" /></a><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580783763698819490" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oKZIVtXsB2o/TXLtQ8uJIaI/AAAAAAAADW8/nNRfHzbv7lw/s400/IMG_1292.JPG" /></div></div></div></div><br /><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580786471061122482" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldYR0qpdJBY/TXLvuibnbbI/AAAAAAAADXM/rwr6mxegKXc/s400/IMG_1306.JPG" />Sarah and Kevin's wedding quilt all finished. I have yet to stitch on a label, but there is no great hurry for that, so I can take my time and embroider something to remember their special day.</p><p>You will notice the pink Handmade for Christchurch badge on the top right hand corner of this blog. Please take time to read all about it, I think it is such a great idea and you might want to be involved too.</p><p>I am making some items that I shall donate to the cause...some small quilts and some knitted things, and I am thinking that it is going to be many months that Christchurch will be needing help and donations as they start to rebuild their city and their lives. The enormous task ahead looks overwhelming, but some great stories of love, kindness, goodness and courage are appearing each day in our newspaper and on the radio, and I look for these each day...very uplifting, and inspiring.</p>Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3649551049732119507.post-39215418512467244322011-02-25T13:55:00.005+13:002011-02-25T14:39:56.037+13:00HopeThis week is very ,very hard, and I am trying to stay positive and looking for something hopeful in each hour. I am glued to the radio and listening to all the stories that are coming from Christchurch, and today I finished quilting the quilt top for Sarah's wedding.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577434787262945394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 271px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kdPDo61GArE/TWcHY3S22HI/AAAAAAAADWM/BQQa8Bc2ncc/s400/IMG_1247.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577430152805679218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zUNCXCT7htc/TWcDLGmJAHI/AAAAAAAADV8/5i8Qha17wLQ/s400/IMG_1250.JPG" border="0" />It feels strange to be doing normal things when the people in ChCh have their lives turned upside down. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5577431425716519554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JYAsORvEV4/TWcEVMjvAoI/AAAAAAAADWE/aGj6pid6yeM/s400/IMG_1248.JPG" border="0" /> I would like to offer our home to anyone who needs to leave ChCh and has no place to go to. We have spare beds, and would love to give a safe haven for you, here in Nelson. Just send me an email and we can help you.Sally Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05262840169594660505noreply@blogger.com7