In my email today, I received this 'story/obit' from my mother in law. It says to pass it along ... I chose this BloG as my forum as I talk about "Common Sense" quite a bit & I feel that more people should honor its existence ... or respect its passing. I do not know the original author - if you do, please say "Well Done" from me. TAG ME ... after you read!

"Last week we mourned the passing of a beloved old friend by the name of Common Sense who has been with us for many years.

No one knows for sure how old he was since his birth records were long ago
lost in bureaucratic red tape.

He will be remembered as having cultivated such value lessons as knowing
when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm and that
life isn't always fair.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more
than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not kids, are in
charge).

His health began to rapidly deteriorate when well intentioned but
overbearing regulations were set in place.

Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a
classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his
condition.

It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer aspirin to a student; but, could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Finally, Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became
contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received better
treatment than their victims.

Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot, she spilled a bit in her lap, and was awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust, his
wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason.

He is survived by two stepbrothers; My Rights and Ima Whiner.

Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If you
still know him pass this on, if not join the majority and do nothing."

Once again, I have fallen behind in posts! Could it be because I am trying to keep up with outside adventures?? OR maybe it is due to my current 'Featured Vendor' status on Spindler's List! Maybe it is because the socks I am knitting are actually 2 different sizes ... NOT on by choice! Could be so many different things!

So, here I am - posting today! I would like to pass on some interesting tidbits ... all on eBay!

First, I placed a bid on this wool! Not that I need it - but, to read the snippet of info re: this wayward sheepie - any 77 year old who can shear a sheepie with an attitude deserves a bid! Feel free to out
BID me.

Second, visit my friend Marcia's
cyber-shelves!! Aren't those the coolest bags ever??

Third, it is my unabashed plug for my own stuff! Yes - I have been working REALLY hard carding these last 2 weeks and I would love for you to take a peek at some of my Kitchen Sink Batts
- of course I would like you to bid too - but, I think you know that!

Lastly - my hats off to all veterans who help make & those who continue to keep this country free. During this Memorial Day - may you remember those you have gone but should not be forgotten! TAG ME ... you are it!

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I found an interesting link recently that I would like to share! At the North Shore Animal League - you can SPONSOR a
dog or cat in need. These are animals which, due to circumstances beyond their control, may never find a loving home. Therefore, individuals outside of the League may assist in their care! How cool is that?

And, since I am on the subject of animal friends ... I am determined more than ever to keep those shephards who care for their flocks, humanely & with love, in business more than ever! If you are looking for some wonderful, raw wool, visit Sandy at Homestead Wool & Gift Farm. She does love her sheepies!

What are you up to?? TAG ME .... You are it!

Spring is here ... the RED SOX are in first place in their division ... life is pretty sweet!

As always - I have been busy dyEing, carding & spinning. But, now I must add gardening & lawn chores to my daily repetoire. I LOVE being outside and since my husband & I try to live as organically as possible ... I feel my efforts help the Earth. I don't mind being busy - I just have a problem with wasting time.

Part of my time wasting has to do with photographing fiber. I NEVER knew how hard it was until I tried capturing the correct colors of skeins & batts in a digital format. Since I sell the stuff, it is VERY important to capture the colors as best I can! Sure, listing colors is helpful, but my idea of 'celery' is totally different than someone elses!

So, I have a tip! Photograph your work using its complimentary color as a background. White or black backgrounds are nice - but they may distort the exact color you are trying to capture. Using a simple color wheel - often available at craft stores and a staple in art stores ... you can decipher complimentary colors. If all else fails this CYBER COLOR WHEEL shows the complimentary colors if you scroll down a bit.

Hope this tidbit of info helps someone! TAG ME ... You are it!

See? I told you I would post more .... wheeeee! Today, I was able to complete a hat that I had made for Prudence Mapstone's Cyber-Gallery . I call it "Head Chick"!

Suffice to say - it came out 'large doll head' size. Maybe a child could wear it, but alas, not jumbo headed me. I suppose this might be a 'good thing'. TAG ME ... You are it!

NBC's "THE APPRENTICE" is over for the season. Sigh ... This was a 'Must See TV' show - one of the few reality shows I have ever watched and suffice to say - I was hooked.

I think what separates this 'reality' show from others is that you can actually pick up tidbits of business advice from 'The Donald'. Knowledge is a powerful tool and whether or not you are in high stakes real estate or a small, independent fiber biz - tidbits of information from a rather successful individual should not be taken for granted. I was slightly 'WOW'ed with Trump's lifestyle - and pleasingly voyeuristic when those snippets of his life appeared. Not to say that I would want to live that lavishly ... but I would like to try it for a month (or 2)!

Me?? I am glad that Bill won - although Kwame is no slouch. I would hire both in an instant if I were a mogul. Can't see either of them carding wool ... let alone washing it - but, heck! I don't wash it either!!!

I have decided to update my BloG more often. If you scroll down - on the left, I have a list of books that I have finished. This is HUGE for me as I am not a big reader. I figure if I document them - it would encourage me to read more. Notice - I have even read one of Mr. Trump's books! Weeeeee! TAG ME .... you are it!

I am PSYCHED!!

I am like Bill -- "I'm a trained killer - in business."

Bill was the Project Manager for the Celebrity Auction Challenge, the Pedicab Challenge, was in Interview Round for the Final Four and the final Golf Tournament Charity Event Challenge.

Which Apprentice are You?
brought to you by The Apprentice Blog and Quizilla

OK - I know I haven't posted in a REALLY long time. Once again - life is getting in the way of BloGGing! C'est la vie .... I will try to do better!

I have been busy spinning and carding for THE KNOTTY SHEEP . I am delighted that the response to my products has been SO favorable. YiPpEE and Thank EWE!! I am still in the stages of finding a balance between making sure everything I need to do gets done. One thing I know for sure - the whole fiber process takes time! Thankfully, it is time well spent!

I also purchased the best earrings from my friend EVE! I purchased a pair for myself and a pair for a (belated) birthday for a friend. Notice the art work at "Spinning Karma"? I did that!!

Well, in short - that is my life! Boring as it is - it makes me happy! My only current WIP is a pair of Joslyn socks. I have about 3" to go on the first sock. I am in 'sock phase' right now ... don't know why - but it is fun! Tag me ... You are it!

Spring is finally here - although you would not know from the temperatures outside. I had actually turned the heat in the house down a few weeks ago ... today, I turned it back up. Weather in New England!! Got to love it!

I have been busy dyEing, carding and spinning. This past week - I received my 2 beautiful shetland fleeces from Lael at Maplewood North. Check out the site & look for Daisy & Simba ... they both came to live with me. Isn't Simba's fleece GORGEOUS?? I honestly don't want to let it out of my sight ... but off to the processor it must go. Yes ... I am THAT bad at washing fleece.

My other 2 fleeces should be coming back from Wooly Knob any day now! I can't wait to see them and I am itching to play with them!

All in all - I have kept myself out of trouble being fibery! Oh - I should mention ... the dubblmossa never even got started this winter ... let's see how long it takes for me to get the socks I have on the needles completed!! TAG ME ... You are it!

Where OH! Where is the time flying??? I have made some fine progress in completing tasks - but no where near where I would like to be! My knitting sits in it's basket - unloved & untouched! My spinning wheels have had some exercise - but not enough. My carder .... Ah! Now my carder has been busy!

I truly enjoy blending the expected with the unexpected! Pushing the creative envelope always does one's muse good! I think this is how we grow artistically ... When we do the unexpected. Such happy accidents can occur not only in our creations - but life in general! When we break free of our confines - that is when we truly become who we were meant to be!

Off to go create ... I am working on a pastel landscape ... Something of a different genre for me! AND - more carding! Do you need to exercise YOUR wheels & needles more ... Well BUY ME !!! TAG ME ... You are it!

Well, while I have been patiently awaiting ALL my fleeces - one did manage to pop in to make my acquaintance ... a beautiful California Red Fleece. It's stay was short - it rested here only for a few days before it was out the door again - on its way to the processor.

Truth be told - I haven't been idle while waiting for shearing day (s). No siree Bob! eBay is a great friend (or foe depending on available fiber dollars!). I received 2 boxes today - one containing the most exquisite silvery white WASHED romney! The second, washed suffolk. I am re-washing as the ends were a bit gnarly - but check out this staple length! MOMMA MIA! TAG Me ... You are it!!

I have been tremendously busy spinning & carding of late. I enjoy the process and I love to watch what 'blends' actually develop on the carder. Even though I spend most of the time frolicking amongst natural colored fibers and adding color ... I am also trying my hand at dYeing. It is a calculated science to say the least! I don't know how far I will progress and I am quite limited by space - but the journey is fun! The batts I created last week - I just put in MY STORE ! If you are feeling shoppie ... Don't let me stop you ... I have 7 (yes! You read right!) SEVEN fleeces coming ... gulp! How can one resist these tantalizing morsels??? Sigh ....

DH & I watched a program about Grizzlies on PBS last night. (Nope - no Academy awards here - like, I really care who is wearing what! I have all I can do to match DH's socks!) CHARLIE RUSSELL is truly amazing. He will be getting some charity dollars from us! To live amongst the grizzlies and to see how these animals commune with him & his wife is AMAZing. Hats off to you, Charlie! I salute your hard work!

What have you been up to?? TAG ME .... You are it!

No news flash here: I HATE washing fleece. I am no good at it and I never want to do it again! PHEEWW! That feels better. Feels like a weight has been lifted as it seems everyone I know in the fibery world has no qualms about washing fleece. Truly - I am NO GOOD at it! AND with 4 fleeces coming as soon as their respective shear dates are over .... Look out!

Since today is Thursday - it is my ARTIST DAY! This is time that is set aside that I go in studio and play with pastels. I finally finished "Marcus" (side note here - I began in November 2003!) . Marcus lived on Redbud Wool Farm and Linnet ... His person, was kind enough to let me draw some of her sheepies. This is for her ... and Marcus! TAG ME ... You are it!

Things have been busy in my studio since the new carder arrived! I have been having a ball creating lovely batts of wool. Of course they are FOR SALE! Feel free to place a bid ... My husband would be delighted if you did! :)

With the new carder came my INSANE desire to purchase raw fleeces! WHY???? I HATE preparing my own fleeces - but things change as we grow! To ease into the process, I am starting with 2 pounds of raw Suffolk. I ordered it from Abi at High Prairie Fibers ! Got to love a shepherdess who also does parrot rescues. Hats off to you, Abi!

Then, there are 2 coming from Linnet at Redbud Wool Farm , and 1 from Bonnie at Sheepy Thyme and then today - I found out that I am getting a hogget fleece from my friend Alicia who named a churro after me! Woo-WHOO! I am so excited .... REALLY SCARED .... But excited!

So as I said .... Feel free to buy or bid at The Knotty Sheep - I need the room! TAG me ... You are it!

The Superbowl has come and gone and I will not be complaining as the New England Patriots won!! For those of you who love QB Tom Brady, his popularity increased a MILLION fold. To bad I am married or I am sure he would be banging down my door! C'est la vie!

I recently ordered a Fricke Petite drum carder! The time will tick slowly by until it reaches me. I hope to create some really interesting blends - but as with any new tool , test drives will be important. Hope I don't hurt myself - those things look sharp!

But, what is a girl to do during the recent colds spells? (I would say - long, dark days - but it *IS* getting brighter out there daily!) The answer of course is to SPIN and draw!! TAG ME ... You are it!

SUPERBOWL SUNDAY! It is here! Can YOU believe it?? I am just so excited - that I think I will burst! I am planning on bringing my Ship's Slippers to knit upon while at a friend's house. I am not one to care that corporate America is spending 2.3 million on a 30 second ad (don't really know if that is an accurate figure, but I know it is close!) - so I will sneak a row in here & there. The mailing period is this week - so they MUST be completed!

My creative juices were flowing ... I have been pushing that proverbial 'creative envelope' and LOVE BUGS
was the result!! I had a ball (HA! no pun intended) doing this skein and I look forward to expanding my 'novelty' yarn inventory. I really like the fact that the sky is the limit when it comes to imagination!

GO PATRIOTS!! Tag ME ... YOU are it!

Still more than a week to go for the Superbowl! Can YOU stand it?? I can't! My husband would have us flying to Houston in a heart beat - just one small problem ... game tickets! Realistically, how can one spend several mortgage payments on one game?? But, we will be cheering the The New Engalnd PATRIOTS on to victory! No foam fingers for me ... how could I spin or knit??

Drum carders have been weighing on my mind of late. I don't really know if I need one - but I am thinking it would be fun to create 'interesting' batts of 'GOD knows what'. The one decision I did make is that I must sell enough stuff to purchase one! So - if you are feeling shoppie - stop by The Knotty Sheep ! Yarn collectors can revel in the unique inventory! (Interesting side note: 10% of my sales will be going to Heifer International to buy sheepies!! Scroll down to see the totals on the left side bar!)

I have managed to finish a handspun cashmere & silk scarf! Came out quite nice and oh, so soft. Now - it is time to sit & spin as well as knit a pair of Ship's Slippers! There is still 8 days to the Superbowl! TAG ME ... You are it!

It has been SO cold here these last few days! I mean - temps, with wind chill, that surpass the 20 degree BELOW mark! BELOW 0 that is! Now, I am pretty hardy - being of Lithuanian descent & living in New England all my life - but this is just plain cold! Perfect weather to play with wool! AND I have indulged this passion quite intensely this last week.

I have been attempting to spin funky yarns of late. Yarns that would make fun trims & embellishments. Miss Robin isn't really up to the task as the orifice is rather small and the hooks are a tad tiny & close together.

BUT - experimentation is good. While playing one night with some extra fiber I had on 2 bobbins - I created the below squiggle yarn. First I S'd, then Z'd, then S'd again as it was REALLY over spun. I set the twist and hung the small skein with a weight ... something I don't usually do. (I feel the weight of a wet skein is sufficient.)

What do you think of my squiggles?? TAG ME ... You are it!

I have been having these last few days - making room for the new things that a "New Year" brings. With every new year, promises of organization, weight loss and de-cluttering are renewed. I decided it was time to sell off some of my 'children' ... Not literally as I don't have children - but skeins of yarn that have been spun with love & patience. Good karma abounds with these babies!!

Some are harder to 'let go' than others. Seaweed is such a skein. So - if you are in the market for a wonderful, handspun skein of corridale - that reminds this soul of long walks on the beach, salty breezes in your hair and sand tickling your toes ... Then please bring this baby home to live with you. TAG ME.... You are it!

2004 is here! YiPpEE!! This year is going to be great - I can truly feel it. I have done much spinning ... And while I am still knitting away on a handspun cashmere & silk scarf - I have thoughts of other projects swimming in my head. Needle felting is on the top of my list . I am seriously trying to spend at least 4 hours per day being creative. It is a challenge, but I find if I make time in my life for the creativity to flow ... It 'creates' more inspirations! How cool is that??

Today, I posted my first Klaudette design of 2004. The NFL football playoffs have commenced and shall we say that I found my inspiration?? Klaudette has joined 'The NFL'!! TAG ME ... You are it!

I am quite amazed that 2003 is coming to an end. Seems like just yesterday I was in a whirl wind - spinning up a storm for SIS's Christmas afghan. Thankfully - it was completed, with time to spare & treasured on Christmas morning!

With 2004 just around the corner - I hesitate to make 'resolutions' due in part to the inescapable failure of NOT doing them. Seems weird - I can honor marriage vows but not one of losing weight, less yarn & fiber stash, less alcohol & more exercise! Hmm ... I guess in the scheme of things, my priorities are on target.

So - in thinking of this glorious year awaiting all of us - I do resolve one thing: to live more gently upon the earth. It shouldn't be THAT difficult ... I mean, to bring less packaging into the house ... No problem! To eat less meat ... EZ PZ! To walk places instead of always driving, to give more of myself as opposed to 'things', to spend more time making my little corner of the world AND myself the best it (& I ) can be. To cultivate peace & love to all that I meet .... No, these aren't resolutions - just me trying to 'pay my rent' for my space on earth. (Did I mention spin & knit & draw more too??) Happy New Year! TAG ME ... You are it!

Christmas is fast approaching & I am pretty much FINIS!! The cards are almost completed, the gifts are bought and those that were intended for loved ones far away are zooming to their destinations as I type. Some have already landed......which is phenomenal!

The REALLY spectacular thing is - I have already made notes, quotes & recommendations for NEXT Christmas. Gifts I thought about making certain individuals - but just never got around to it. OR - ideas that blossomed due to some unexplainable reason. I am just psyched that I will be prepared - and being prepared takes the pressure off. No pressure - No stress.

This weekend - I knit this really cool
FRONTIER HAT for myself. It went extremely quick and I look like I belong in "Dr. Zhivago". Pretty cool stuff!

I also recently spun a wonderful dorset x rambo roving. Then I Navajo plYed it. I LOVE using this technique and have found myself on occasion purchasing roving just so I may indulge myself!! What do you think?? TAG ME ... You are it!

It is the first MAJOR snow storm since - well, the last one - but it is wonderful to be able to spend the day discarding clutter to make way for the Christmas decorations tomorrow. I am hoping between the 'white' outside and the 'blinky' lights on the inside - I will be able to appreciate this time of year a tad more than I have been. Wish me luck!! Part of my goal for the coming year is to be able to purchase 'sheep' from
Heifer International to 'gift' to a deserving family. The funds will be determined by the sales of my art. That is right -
I am donating 10% of my sales to purchase sheepies!! It
will take me a bit to arrive at the appropriate figure - but I am
hoping by Thanksgiving of 2004 - I will be able to contact
"Heifer International"with a 'sheepie' donation! A customer in NYC just purchased these babies!!! Thanks Amy!! TAG ME ... you are it!

TA DA!! The PF cardi is finis!! I kicked butt this weekend & completed it. I paid special attention to the details - I have never been 'known for' seaming & sewing. I yearned for that flawless look at I think it came out quite nice!! I did some 'Karyisms' on the collar - as what was printed didn't appeal. I also used vintage buttons for a completely individualistic look. I love this cardi and it will make its public debut on Thanksgiving Day. (Ok .. You are getting a sneak peek here!) Am I crazy?? I love Peace Fleece colors SO MUCH that I want more ..... sigh!! Here she is .... My Peace Fleece cardi!! TA DA!! Tag me ... You are it!

I have been working like a crazy woman the last few days on the PF cardigan. I decided that I wanted to wear it Thanksgiving ... sigh! I don't know about you - but sewing sweaters together seems to take forEVER (and then some!). And the weaving of the ends? I must remember to breathe!! Plus - I am also working on a scarf for my
ELDER. I would like to be able to ship this sometime during the second week of December - along with a few other goodies. I am making this scarf double thick - and it is being made from thel, silk, angora and alpaca ... toasty!! Of course - the Dubblemoussa mocks me every time I walk by it ... but my confidence is growing - I will tackle *IT* soon!! What are you knitting or spinning today?? .... TAG ME - you are it!

I have been suffering from the 'Feelin' Shoppie Syndrome'. It is an unavoidable happening which surfaces from time to time. Anything & everything fiber related is up for grabs. While I am waiting on the 'Dubblemoussa' to arrive - over the past couple of days I have purchased some new fibers. Wonderful fibers that I am looking forward to receiving!! First - I made a stop at Wonderland Dyeworks. Alice had kindly picked my name in a recent contest for FREE fiber. I picked "Harvest" - but then again - how could I not pair that with "Autumn"? Then, the vivacious Linda D from Grafton Fibers posted THESE ... how could I pass them by? So - 2 colorways are coming to play with me. Didn't need any of them - but wanted them all. And since the dubblemoussa & these fibers will be arriving shortly ... I have been busy working on the Peace Fleece Everyday Cardigan . I chose the 'Ancient Fern' colorway - but to be quite honest - all their colors are saturated with color. Check it out!! TAG ME ... you are it!

For some unknown reason - the cyber gods still will not let me post pictures. C'est la vie! Thankfully - I still am able to do 'clickable' links. I marvel at other BloGs that have photos and snippets and html stuff - but alas - my BloG is one of simplicity. There are no bells & whistles. I wish that there were - but, for now, just call me 'Plain Jane'. First, I must tell you - I am beginning to offer my sculptures for SALE!! (I know - unabashed plug to make $$). I am really excited as needle felting is just one more way I can work with fiber!! It is such a blast too ... of course - when I stab myself it hurts like the devil - but - the final product just astounds me. Making 3 dimensional objects from fiber!! WOW!! "Espresso et beignet" is both whimsical and delightful! The cup can actually hold paper clips or other small things. YAY - both beauty & function!!
Secondly - I think I am going to try my hand at fair isle.
The Dubblemoussa was the item I needed this weekend to keep my ears warm! That wind was whipping off the ocean to the tune of wind chills that felt like 10 degrees! The sad thing is - I doubt I will finish it much before August. Wish me luck ... until then - a warm cup of espresso will do just fine! TAG ME ... you are it!

Can't believe that I am posting twice in one week! Woo-
WHOO! Maybe I am inspired to write because it snowed today - that has put me in the absolute BEST mood! Here I sit,
swilling honey laced tea with a woolen sweater and woolen socks adorning my person. Of course it isn't still snowing -
but it was a nice surprise this morning. AND - speaking of writing ... my dear friend STASIA entangled me in her web of
letter writing. Being one who loves to get nice snail mail (no
bills or junk!) - I entangled freely. With the magic of the first snow, I received my LEX number today!! The Letter Exchange is keeping
the ART of letter writing alive. I think I have 'checked off'
about a dozen listings to which I would like to respond.
If you like to write letters - I encourage you to check out this service!! You might just find a interesting pen friend or 2!!
TAG ME ... you are it!

Today, I came across the BEST quote ever! It was written by Mother Teresa and I thought I would share it with you. My wish is that you will take this message to heart and share it with others: "People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered; Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; Be kind anyway. If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway. If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you; Be honest and frank anyway. What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous; Be happy anyway. The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway. You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God; It was never between you and them anyway. "

Vacations come & go! Mine came & went all to fast. I don't really feel energize & relaxed as it was a time to catch up with old friends & to make new ones. But, ANY time that is spent doing different things in a different place is a welcome change in a basically boring routine. I would LOVE to show you pictures, but for some reason for which only the cyber-Gods know - I can't! C'est la vie! I did travel to Block Island (RI) and my accomodations were beautiful as always!! Yes - I have stayed at this B&B the last 7 years.
THE BLUE DORY INN is centrally located in the Old Harbor district. Perfect for strolling & eating. The shopping this time of year is pretty non-existant - but with the natural beauty of the island - who would want to be INside?? Even while running to & fro on the island - I did manage to knit on a scarf that will be gifted to a friend's niece! I am hoping that due to the beauty & calmness the area provides - I knit a ton of good, healing karma into it as this friend's niece suffered from a severe car accident a while back. Thankfully - she is on the mend. AND - just like I need another hobby - my good friend STASIA has addicted me to the craft of letter writing once again. As I child I collected wonderful papers & notecards - just to have. I think I was the only teenager on my block who owned wax & a letter sealer! While I admire the immediacy of the internet and the wonderful way with which it connects the world - I also enjoy receiving beautiful hand written messages on fine papers & cards. I love opening them and I love admiring the stamps. Weird?? Nope - just simplistic in its old fashioned quality. I think I need calling cards ... wouldn't THAT be fun!! What have you been up to .... TAG ME - you are IT!!

I am screaming with delight over my new auction win! Nope - not from eBay - but from the wonderful FUNd raising auction provided by DANCE AS EVER ! Who could resist a hand knit, Bonnie Franz, cotton jacket with the word PEACE knitted in 98 different languages?? Certainly not I! If you scroll down the auction page - you will find my new wearable ART piece. I will be stalking my mail box until it arrives. I am tickled that I am helping the ARTS which inspire, enlighten and educate all of us thru various mediums. I encourage anyone to assist these precious programs when they can. Government funding has diminished so many ART programs in recent years! ART is a GREAT way to nourish the soul and experience life in a creative way!! THINK ART! AND - to TOTALLY change the subject .... I also recently discovered the pleasures of liquid soap. I am not talking about the run of the mill, harsh & abrasive store bought stuff. I am referring to liquid GOLD - that refreshens and relaxes at the same time. A delicate, pleasing scented soap that makes you want to wash your hands ... A LOT!
BAUDELAIRE SOAPS are fabulous. If you are looking for something new or perhaps a wonderfull gift - I recommend these soaps HIGHLY! TAG ME ... you are IT!

I have finally been busy in the studio once again! YiPpEE!!
Once I begin to create - it keeps on coming. I find it weird when that happens. A momentum develops and I gladly accept it into my life! All to often, distractions keep me from what I want & what should be doing. I procrastinate and then get frustrated when I don't accomplish certain things. It feels great to finally be on track! Klaudette has made a come back and I must say, I am pretty proud of
KLAUDETTE! TAG ME .... you are it!

So - I truly haven't fallen off the face of the earth. I find summer to be SO unproductive for me. I can not stand the heat or humidity! Give me a cool (or cold) New England day - and I am in heaven. I have decided to plunge - fearlessly- into my art & fiber passions. "The Knotty Sheep" website will miraculously appear in cyber space one day - I will be offering my Klaudettes and fine art pieces. I am tickled and I hope to complete it soon. On the knitting needles: The Everyday Cardigan from PEACE FLEECE in the Ancient Fern colorway. Their yarns and colors are spectacular!! AND - I love the fact that it helps wool growers from various parts of the world. Truly - it is a Peace FULL enterprise. The BAGHDAD BLUE is truly inspirational!! On Miss Robin, the wheel - silk from Carol, THE SILKWORKER - although, miracle worker is more like it!! Carol has an incredible eye for color! Her silks are always in demand - so much so - part of me didn't even want to share her website!! (Bad ME!!) :) What have you been up to??? TAG ME ... you are it!

Well, I did it! I completed my first lace item!! Thanks to Miss STASIA who enabled and encouraged a group of us to do this - I am now the proud owner of "The Creatures of the Reef" shawl designed by DOROTHY at Fiddlesticks Knitting. I must tell you - this is one of the best written patterns I have ever laid eyes on. Fear not - if *I* can do lace - anyone can!! At the widest edge - this shawl measures approximately 84". Perfect for my 6' frame! Please take a peek and don't forget to TAG ME to let me know what you think!! You are IT!!

August is HERE! For me, I get in the mindset that 'summer is almost over'. It helps being in New England where the leaves will begin to change and the shorts will give way to sweaters. Lately, it has been hot & humid with tropical type downpours. Yes, sweater weather will be here shortly (I hope!)! I have been busily working my way thru the COTR (AKA Creatures of the Reef) shawl - I am on row 84 - I still half about 2 thirds left to do! I will try to post a picture soon! (HI! Deborah!) AND while 'surfing' late last week, I came upon a charity that sparked my interest: ADOPT~AN~ELDER. After doing a little research (thanks Alicia!) - I discovered this organization to be an excellent venue for keeping Native Americans in their homes while in their twilight years. Some of these 'elders' live in very remote parts and have limited means. I figured "I CAN" purchase food twice a year for someone who doesn't have any. "I CAN" knit warm woolies for someone who is chilled. "I CAN" let someone, somewhere know that they are loved & valued and that they are not alone. "I CAN" make a difference! You can too!! It doesn't take much to make someone smile! TAG ME .... you are it!!

OK - so I know that I haven't posted in AGES!! Life has been good & busy of late, without computer access on the weekends to boot. That really diminishes my internet time! C'est la vie!
I have been enjoying the wonderful weather that summer provides! I have also been playing with fiber non-stop, and boy! is it ever fun!! First, I have been spinning on Miss Robin almost nightly! I am still neglecting my spindles ~ but I love the production that the wheel provides! I am also knitting my first 'lace' shawl! It is called "Creatures of the Reef'. My friend,
STASIA formed a Yahoo! group so we could all comiserate together. It has been a true confidence builder!! Stasia has a button on her BloG to connect you quickly to this group ... please join for a wonderful experience! I have also ordered an Ashford "JOY" from Margrett at RUNNING MOON FARM! Margrett has even painted the treadles with a 'sheepies by the sea' theme! I will post a picture when it arrives! I can't wait to try the JOYness out! Well, in a nutshell, this is what I have been doing! How is your summer going?? TAG ME ... you are it!

WOW! I can't believe that it has been so long since I did a BloG update! Time flies! I did complete several fibery projects: both spinning & knitting! I always have something on the wheel & needles. It is my spindles that are being neglected. Not for any particular reason - it is just 'not where I am at' right now. I seem to be moving in many different directions - the wheel soothes me as I must 'stay put' to do it. I honestly LOVE my spinning time ~ it is the way I begin & end each day. Kind of like winding up & down. Got to love the irony! What have YOU been doing? TAG ME ... you are it!

Even in the recent heat - my creative juices are still flowing. I have continued to knit socks by day, spin by night and draw on my "Artist Day" on Thursday. I believe I am more grounded when I have the opportunity to express myself thru these venues. In the coming months - I would like to take all of these endeavors to the next level. I am not sure what this will entail - but it will be an interesting journey!! I have included a picture of "Miss Nell" - let me know what you think .... TAG ME! ... You are it!

The biggest disadvantage of the arrival of the Summer Solstice - as soon as it is here - the days start to get shorter. Seems like Spring never arrived - and lo & behold - here the calendar is telling me it is now summer! Ah well ... the garden has the tiniest of shoots popping up. Thank goodness for farms such as Diamond Organics !! YuMMy!! I love supporting organic farmers. Pesticide laden & genetically modified fruits & vegetables have become the norm. How sad is that?? I also purchased some 'heavenly' roving. It hasn't made its way here - but I know Dulcenea will be most wonderful. (Should I mention I love supporting sheep farmers too? Especially those that aren't typically mainstream!) Considering the weather has been less than perfect of late - I have been able to knit & spin TONs!! I also got a new Klaudettecompleted too! Feel free to place a bid ... I think I need to buy more roving .... ggg! TAG ME ... you are it!

The last 2 days have been amaZing ... the sun has shone! The warmth received from the golden rays has rejuvenated my spirit. It has been the longest winter ... virtually no spring to even mention. Granted, the sun peeked out from the clouds mid-afternoon, but it was still enough to cause JOY! While knitting outside, I finished my 24th pair of slippers for the Ship's Project. I am quite pleased with the colors in these. I use all my tidbits of yarn for the slippers - and sometimes the colors just sing! These are screaming!! I hope these bring JOY to whom ever receives them! This morning - I was BloG hopping and I stopped to visit at THERESA's - and she asked 3 amaZing questions: "What surprised you today?"; "What moved you today?" and "What inspired you today?". These are excellent questions!! My answers: how much I got done when I stayed OFF the computer; my pedometer - my goal is 10,000 steps a day. (Man - do I have a lot of walking ahead of me!); and a bee collecting honey while I was mowing the grass. Neither me nor the mower bothered this little fellow from his appointed rounds. Nature is amaZing! What were your 3 answers?? TAG ME ...you are it!

I finished my 23rd pair of Ship's Project slippers today! I am glad when I accomplish something. The Old English Sheep Dog & wool blend is almost completed too. Does anyone else get bored with spinning the same thing day after day?? AND - have you ever left your project half way thru spinning it only to realize that when you start again - you are spinning differently?? Weird, huh? That is why I am pushing forward to complete this. I hit over a thousand yards - me thinks that will be enough for a vest. (It is 12 wpi!) I also completed some art work too! Look at KLAUDETTE and look at my pastel sheepie RIVER. LINNET, River's care taker, has given me permission to draw her sheepies! Now THIS is going to be fun! TAG ME ... you are it!

It has been a very fibery last few days!! First, RIVER came to live with me! Her fiber is such a delight ... it is a sweet cream color - I am thinking this would make the PERFECT fisherman's knit sweater for the Beach House!! Secondly, today I received my order from HOMESTEAD Wool Farm - the colors in the photos do NOT do justice to the finished fiber batts. Most of these prepared batts are just $1 an ounce! That is right, ONE DOLLAR !! If you scroll to the bottom of THEIR fiber for sale page - I purchased the Patriotic batts & Morning Glory ~ aren't they absolutely divine?? Give these 2 vendors a 'whorl' - you will be glad that you did! (Let me know what you buy!!) TAG ME ... you are it!

The weather has been wild here for over a week. Sigh ... still great for fibery fun though! I have placed my "Travaux d'art en marche" ~
"Art works in progress" in the left hand column on this BloG. I want to see how long it takes to complete things. That first item, the Belted Galloway sweater - will take YEARS I am sure. I am not one for graph patterns - but I was up for the challenge when I started it on May 18. The thrill has worn off! I really feel like I will finish the sheep dog/wool blend with in the week. Haven't complied yardage yet, but I hope to have enough for a vest. After that - I may continue on with the afghan ... who knows. I also finished a
KLAUDETTE! What is really cool about this art piece is the needle felted spindle that goes with it!! I LOVE to needle felt!! Great ... just what I need is another hobby! TAG ME ... you are it!

I was in a BloGger reading frenzy this weekend. I would read one - then 'link-off" onto another. Perusing all the different BloGs makes me realize how dull mine is! I know I am not HTML literate. My pictures are hosted at a 'free web-hosting' site - so I can not add many at a time, otherwise that all important bandwith is used. Don't even KNOW what that is! But, suffice to say - I wish I could do more. While I was reading a knitter's BloG - it made me have an "A-HA!" moment. I do not remember the fellow's URL - but basically he stated that as knitters most of us are in a rut. We are boring. We are hindering the future knitters of the Universe by not expanding our repetoire of skills. We are wallowing in knits while we should be celebrating purls! It makes sense to me. While I feel my legacy of knitting might be considered mundane - I hope to at least keep the skill alive. Just to motivate you - I found this fiber artist this weekend - while not necessarily knitting - it sure will be leaving a legacy of skill! Welcome to the world of VOOG! TAG ME ... you are it!

I have been in a creative free-fall these last few days. Boy!! Does it feel good! I find when I delve into the creative process on a continual basis - the process itself - not only gets re-enforced, but it also GROWS. This magnification comes at all hours and sometimes the silliest little thing starts the creative juices rushing!! Recently, I sent STASIA's husband a "Bee-well" needle felted sculpture. Which in turn, inspired me to order more needle felting supplies from MIELKE's FARM. I love to needle felt as it truly is a unique way to sculpt. Not many use wool as a sculpting medium - which makes it REALLY cool! I also have been inspired to paint more KLAUDETTEs . How I have missed her funny little face - and given the response to my auctions - others had missed her too! I even worked on my cow sweater while waiting for an oil change today. Ah ... inspirations!! Cultivate that creativity and watch it GROW! TAG ME ... you are it!

I am delighted when I am productive! It is amazing what lights the fire under one's backside! For me - it was the sale of a pastel art piece. I think that our creativity needs validation sometimes in order to bloom. Like anything else - without encouragement & guidance it tends to sit there. Without the proper exercise, it gets lethargic. That was me! But this weekend - fueled by the sale - I completed a long awaited KLAUDETTE! She is such a part of my inner workings - it is incredible! I also started a sweater by North Islands Designs AND I received the most springy, clean Cotswold from Robin at NISTOCK FARMS! It is invaluable to keep the local shephards/dess' in business and this one tends to a special breed! I hope your weekend was wonderfully productive. TAG ME ... you are it!

I SOLD my first original pastel today!! What a day! It is such a honor to have someone appreciate the way you interpret life. Whether it is a drawing of a spindle or a bowl of vegetables - everyone sees things differently. Our interpretations are personal. Our emotions are permanently etched into the item whether we try to extinguish them or not. That is why I have always loved handmade things. A little bit of the artist's soul is placed into each piece. The energy pulsates off the paper, the pottery, the tapestry - whatever medium is used - and enters into the personal space of the one chosen to be its NEW caretaker. This energy transcends time & place. To the new owner of "Radish Trio" - I am honored to have a corner of your kitchen wall!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

This past weekend was the New Hampshire Sheep & Wool Festival. I have been going for the last few years - even before I started to spin. I would pack myself & my MoM - and off we would go - sharing the wonders of sheepies & wools. This year - distance and a First Communion stood in the way of me & the sheepies. Not that I REALLY minded as a First Communion is a very big deal. AND - I also want for nothing in Fiber-dom - is it just a wonderful playground to wander amongst like minded individuals! It is an incredible opportunity to support the local shephards/shephardess' as well as EWEnique time to concentrate on keeping spinning & other fiber arts alive. Sigh .... there is always next year! To appease my lustful soul - I spun & Navajo plied some yearling mohair which was sent to me in an exchange on Spindler's List a while back. The colorway is beautiful, and to my knowledge un-named. Therefore, I call it "Springtime Violets". Eventually, I think I will sell it - but for now - I wanted you to see it! TAG ME ... you are it!

A HaPpY MOM's Day to all who are mother's of children, animals or care takers of the Earth! Celebrating MoMs is a great idea - but one that I wished was recognized more than once a year. The word 'recognized' isn't right ... appreciated / respected seems to fit better. I both appreciate & respect my MoM. She sacrificed daily so that my SIS & I could have what we needed. That doesn't mean NEW clothes & NEW toys - we were without at times - but we were by no means poor. Instead of 'stuff' - we had a MoM who would play with us & take us sledding. Who made us learn to knit and taught us about our Lithuanian heritage. Who taught us right from wrong; encouraged as often as possible and disciplined when needed. She was MoM after all - and did not buy into the "parents are friends" theory. I am really glad about that too - you can have a ton of acquaintences and a handful of really GOOD friends - but you can only have one MoM!! I wish everyone had a MoM like mine. So - Thanks MoM!! AND have a HaPpY Day!! TAG ME ... you are it!

STRESS!!! For some reason, we (humans) have seem to accepted stress as a way of life. It has become both a 'reason' & an 'excuse'. We are 'stressed out'. As if living on the edge wasn't enough - we eat & drink to much so as to compensate for our stress-FILLED lives. We 'buy' way to much in order to satisfy some hunger deep within us - and then complain when we don't have room on our credit cards or room in our 'rooms' to move. I am just as guilty as the next. This week, I have been overly stressed. But - today, I have decided to deal with it. I have thrown my hands up in the air - yelled "I give up"!! and I have asked GOD to guide me. I think that HE is the opposite of stress and the 'darker side' has perpetuated stress so we over indulge, hate our neighbor, become selfish and wade thru a quamire of *%^& (also known as life). But - life is what we choose to make it. There will always be things that are out of our control: weather for one. But - do we really need to eat 4 cheeseburgers? Do we really need to drink a whole gallon of wine then think we can drive?? Do we have to spend so much time involved within ourselves - that we forget about a neighbor -and yet complain when that neighbor's child does something foolish? Today - hug a friend! Send a loved one a note or make a phone call!! Give your animal buddy an extra scratch behind the ears!! Donate to a favorite charity!! Leave 10 minutes early for work or an appointment!! Bring a hand picked flower to an elder-friend!! Instead of eating those 4 cheeseburgers - eat 2 and donate the $$ to the person standing behind you. BE STRESS-FREE!! I think your heart, health and happiness depend on it! TAG ME .... you are it!

I have been craving new fiber of late. Do I need any??? NO!!! Last count - I think I had 7 rubber maid bins full of fiber. The cedar chest is now holding completed skeins of handspun. I keep miscellaneous balls of yarn in a basket, ear marked for The Ship's Project. AND - I have a basket of roving next to Miss Robin. Sigh ... Why the fiber lust?? Truly a mystery that even Sherlock could not solve. While I am doing well to avoid temptation - I have been playing with fiber for the last 2 days. Yesterday, I continued to weave on my Hazel Rose looms for a future 'throw' for a future couch. I also completed a bobbin last night of bright green corridale that I will ply with a natural sheepie color for a marled yarn. Today - not only did I set the twist for my Spin-Off skein ... I also created a cell phone bag for ME!! I had been wanting to do this for a while and lo & behold, the planets were aligned and today was the day!! It was colonial roving that I had handspun a while ago. The skein - black shetland for "Spin-Off"!! I am pretty excited that I have started this week with such a creative blast!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

Well, tomorrow is May 1. This is the date that I had given myself to finish spinning the yarn for SIS's afghan. It is NOT completed. Sigh .... I had been going gangbusters for a while - then, life got in the way. I am grateful that I started it right after LAST Christmas!! I know that there isn't ALL that much more to do - the yarn will be completed in May. At least I started my rare breed 'spindle spun' skein for "Spin Off" today.... actually got a good amount done too. I am using 'shetland'. It is a wonderful black roving with silver wisps blended ever so gently. The sheepie is appropriately named "Ebony". The due date of the skein is June 30 - I hope to have it mailed next week. The skein itself can be up to 2 oz. I would be surprised if it weighed that much, but you never know. I am spindling it on my "Stasia # 33". I thought that was appropriate as Stas has done so much to keep the art of spindle spinning alive & well. Isn't this spindle cool?? ..... TAG ME .... you are it!

I have come to realize that when I don't do something fibery - I get kraBBy!! I haven't really done ANYTHING in a week - and I am beginning to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of starting something. There is still a ton of fiber which needs to be spun or knit! Sometimes for me - the hardest part of the project is starting it!! Weird, I know! Most people have the most difficulty finishing that second sock or sewing that sweater together! Not me .... whether it is a drawing or a bobbin of singles needing to be plied or a Klaudette design ... the hardest part is motivating myself to begin. So - here I sit typing away - procrastinating AGAIN! Tonight - I have decided to use my wheel, Miss Robin. Hmmm .... but what fiber??? TAG ME ... you are it!

Tomorrow is Easter! My husband & I play host to my family. I don't stress about cooking or cleaning. Being accepted for NOT being "Martha" is a HUGE stress-reducer. (No offense to anyone who is - I just feel why make life complicated and take the joy out of a visting Easter bunny!) My family knows I am NOT a gourmet cook. The also accept that my wheel & spindles will still be part of the decor. They also know that my pets are MY children and that my parrot will be at the dinner table at some point. Being accepted is a 'good-thing'. My niece & nephew have also become aware that I give out neat stuff at the table and sponsor a contest. The 'door prizes' this year are a painted top, a dark chocolate egg, a handwoven book mark (by ME) and popcorn. Why popcorn?? I recently found out my parents had given it up for Lent - I thought it would be a hoot!! The bunny with a rose pen tied to a box of strawberry/rose geranium candy is the 'contest prize'. The 'contest' - why guess how many pink MM's in the glass jar, of course!! Notice the center piece - handspun yarn with little Chicks (Thanks Lexi!!) Happy Easter to all!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

I have recently returned from a long weekend at the seashore. To those of you lucky enough to live by the sea daily - I am jealous! No other way to state it - no sugar coating there - just plain, unadulterated jealousy!! I love the ocean - always have. I am thinking that I lived a previous life on Block Island as I am so 'at home' there. Even though I live in MA - I have never seen Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket. Don't really have a desire to either, although I suppose I would visit the later rather than the former if truth be told. Water has such positive energy to it - it takes on a life of its own - causing the most incredible inspirations imaginable! This picture has the North Light way in the distance. For those of you who are "water babies" in dry-dock - may this photo inspire you! TAG ME ... you are it!

The SUN was actually shining today! This made 'Artist Day' even better - if you can believe that! I drew for about 5 hours and came away with a less than satisfactory piece. Ah well - I am far from perfect and yet it is amazing to me that I expect nothing less than perfection from my art pieces. C'est la vie! There is always next week. But - I hope that spring is here to stay for a while. I realized today that Easter is just around the corner. That is difficult to digest given the cold & snow we have been having on a daily basis. But - I am anxious to work in the garden and play amongst the flowers & vegetables. We leads me to say - pastels are an extremely messy medium - but then again, so is gardening. Due to being at the studio - Kim has provided me with some lucious scrubbing grains for easy clean up. They are gardening grains from Crabtree & Evelyn. Not only does it works wonders - but it also smells terrific too. The best part - a SALE which starts tomorrow!! Shop til you drop!! TAG ME ... you are it!

Winter decided to unleash her fury today. Snow, ice, rain - a cornicopia of frozen water. Although it was the perfect day for fibery fun - I have yet to touch anything fibery. To many chores. But - it was still a good day. I received another letter from one of our sponsored children. This is the second letter we received this week. The first was from one of our sponsored girls - Ana-cecilia. Today - our letter came from John-larri. Both children live in Columbia - and both reflected upon how happy they are that we are their sponsored 'parents'. I am delighted to know that we are making a difference in their lives. A difference I hope is for the better. In all - we sponsor 2 boys (Columbia & Paraguay) & 2 girls (Columbia & Malawi) - each child is a special gift to the world. I encourage you to check out the CHILDREACH website or give what you are able to your favorite charity this coming week. Everything we do for the better - is better for the world! TAG ME ... you are it!

Today, being Thursday, is my "Artist Day". Per Julia Cameron, author of "The Artist Way" - it is a date I have to indulge in an array of artistic outings. Usually, I spend the day with my pastel mentor Kim at her store/studio. It is a fun way to absorb the creative energies that puslate from her studio and her creations. I am delighted to report that I finished "Spindle Sibling # 3". This pastel was a long time in coming. Last weeks piece did not SPEAK to me the way that this one does. The star of this piece is my Kauri wood spindle which I purchased from the Bellwether. The wool - a romney lock from a sheepie named Fennel! I am tickled to share this with you!! AND - I am also happy to report that I mailed my 20th pair of slippers for The Ship's Project to Nancie!! She is the coordinator for our Charity Focus at Spindler's. With all the activity that our military is engaged in - I am honored that my handspun & knitting skills are being put to good use for these brave men & women!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

Drawing has been a struggle for me of late. Nothing has 'clicked' and when that happens - frustration sets in. I now have almost a whole pad of paper with semi-completed spindle pictures on them. Instead of viewing them as a waste - I have decided that they were experiments. They will never be completed. They will never be fixed. They are what they are: a spiritual struggle to draw what my HEART was trying to SEE. Spindles, themselves, aren't overly difficult to draw once the proper perspective in acheived. It is the roving! To draw something with such an 'airy' quality about it is hard to capture. I think it is even harder to photograph!! Meet my latest art piece - let me know what you think!! TAG ME ... you are it!

I have fallen in love with Navajo plYing!! Last week, I had practiced on a space dYed skein that I had purchased. I didn't want to ruin any handspun over a new techinque! Anyway - it came out fine - some burps & slubs, but that is what makes our yarns EWE-nique! So - this weekend, in taking a break from SIS's Christmas afghan - I spun a bobbin of assorted wools. This came from the Totally Tubular kits from THE BELLWETHER. It was so much fun to create such a colorful yarn. Much to my chagrin - I should have realized that this technique would use more yarn than a regular 2ply. Oh, well - if I DO make socks from this - they will have to be striped! Learn something new every day!! I also completed my 19th pair of slippers for THE SHIP's PROJECT!! YAY - the need is truly at its greatest now. If you can help - please do!! Here is a peek at my skein .... what do you think?? TAG ME .... you are it!

Today - the first official WHOLE day of spring!! It was a beauty here - a wee South O'Boston - and I look forward to many more of these days in the near future. I am also looking forward to DH re-installing the 'stuff' I need to be able to show you photos! I miss not doing that!! Hopefully, over the weekend - things will be back to normal!! I ran across some real interesting handspun yarn on eBay this week. In fact - I won an auction last night (naturally, when I meant not purchasing fiber until 7/1 - I really did mean SPINNABLE fiber!!)! Check out Lexi's HANDSPUN - doesn't it SCREAM inspiration!! Mine will arrive with little chicks embedded into the spun single - I can't wait for it to arrive!! Have a great night!! TAG ME ... you are it!

I have been busy trying to reduce the studio stash! It is So EZ to buy roving - and yet, I swear it takes a dog's age to reduce it to a skein. Skeins take up so little room in comparison to the unspun stuff. One of my goals is NOT to purchase anymore fiber until July 1. AND - another goal is to spin all the yarn for SIS's Christmas afghan by May 1. I have been spinning quite a bit on that - but find I get bored spinning 'natural sheepie colors' if I don't take a break from them every once in a while with a blast of color. Recently, my friend
STASIAplaced an order from
TREETOPS and she included my order with hers. Even though this order came all the way from Australia - I can't believe how quickly it arrived. I purchased 2 colorways: Vintage Port and Mango Tango. The Mango Tango reminded me of my bird Kiwi. Once again - I don't have the particular computer thingie I need to show you it! Sigh ....... but .....as soon as I am able - I will! TAG ME ... you are it!

Ever since changing the innards of my computer - I haven't been able to reduce photo size. Sigh .... If I tried to put photos on my BloG without shrinking them - I fear they would take up not only this whole page - but my all important bandwith usage too. Please bear with me while I try to figure it out. Until then - it is click able links! Today was a productive day. I always feel better about myself when I have been productive. I completed a KLAUDETTE Baby T shirt and I have begun to rid my studio of things I no longer use. I think productivity has a love/hate relationship with clutter. The more clutter - the less productive. It is almost like the clutter pulls the creative energy from me to use in reproducing more clutter. No more - this is a battle I will win! And - just to keep you current on my Ship's Project slippers - I just completed pair # 18!! How are your projects going?? TAG ME ... you are it!

Sunday. A day of rest and relaxation. Today, I felt like a slug. I feel like I accomplished ZERO! ZILCH! NA-DA! I did do some spinning and some knitting - but nothing overly taxing or creative. I find that when I am not engaged creatively - I am LAZY. I dislike being like this as I feel time is a precious commodity that is all to often wasted. Don't get me wrong - I also cooked, cleaned & did laundry - but I still feel LAZY. The sun was out today and I got to spend some time outside with the dogs in the sunshine. I was hoping that spurt of sunshine would do me good - I am surprised I wasn't more energized after the fact. Tonight, I will ask God to keep me on the creative path. When I deviate from the path, along with laziness comes stress eating - both of which are such big factors in an unhealthy life style. My friend STASIA asked me what kind of pastels I own. I thought I would answer here. Maybe if I talk about my pastels they will inspire me!! My inventory includes: a Sennelier half stick 20; a Schmincke half stick 30; Yarka Russian 185 full stick and a Conte 48 pastel pencil set. Quite an assortment of different textures & softness degrees. Sigh .... maybe I need to go play. TAG ME ... you are it!

Today is Ash Wednesday - and like some who recognize this day - I try to 'give up or do' something good for the season of Lent. Yes, I try to be a nicer a person, eat less, etc - but this year I have decided to give up clutter! You know how HARD this will be for me?? I have piles on top of piles and even though I can 'usually' locate anything I am looking for - it is time to let some stuff go! My husband is equally as bad and when you live in a small house, amongst fibers & art supplies - space is always at a premium. So - by the time Easter rolls around - I hope to be in great shape. Now, for those of you who give up chocolate - beware!! I have found some truly magnificent ORGANIC chocolate!! Green & Black's Chocolate is located in England. I had seen this confection in an organic catalogue and well, I lusted after it. But, while shopping locally, I noticed that they carried it! WOO-WHOO!! I purchase a bar of the white chocolate and may I say "YuM"!! So - if you are rethinking your 'lenten' offering - clutter is really the best way to go!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

This has been a 'spinning' week for me. I have worked diligently spinning 2 different grey wools and plying them together for my SIS's Christmas afghan. It is coming out quite wonderfully and freeing up some precious space in the stash bins. I also completed slipper pair # 17 for The Ship's Project . I am wondering if I can complete a personal goal of 50 at the end of this year. It would be a long shot as during the summer months - I don't tend to knit as much - but it is really a worthy cause. I will try my best! Speaking of best - for the months of January & February - I netted a cash goal of $35.00 for
Greyhound Friends, Inc.. This wonderful organization finds homes for retired greyhounds. I am willingly making this donation as I was 'paying myself' for not eating between meals, having 'A' glass of wine with dinner and exercising. I am pretty happy with this accomplishment. AND - I have also posted my lastest masterpiece!! I had to put it on my
Klaudette Home Page as I have yet to figure out how to shrink photos with the new programs installed on my computer. Heck, at least I could put the photo there! Let me know what you think!! TAG ME ...touche!

Winter 2003 will certainly be remembered for a while. Here on the East Coast - between snow & rain - I am nothing short of soggy. I feel like a duck! Not going to complain TOO much as I am sure this will benefit us all this coming summer. Our water supply should be VERY adaquate. YAY for all those thirsty trees, flowers & vegetables. It is nice to think of warmer weather, of being/playing outside! Of dogs sleeping in the sunshine and birds singing in the trees. Yes, spring & summer will be here very soon. Today, I started spinning the yarn for the border of my sister's Christmas afghan. It will take some time amongst all the other things I want to do - but hey, least I started it!! I also finished my 16th pair of slippers for The Ship's Project !! We still could use all the help that we can get - so once again, feel free to join if you can. It is a great way for me to use my handspun AND what incentive to do MORE fiber shopping!! (Shopping is always more fun when it is for a good cause!). I will start another pair this week ... just in honor of the fact that I can!! TAG ME .... touche!

As I type this morning - I am looking out the window waiting patiently for the first flakes of THIS snowstorm to fall. I *think* this will be our 100th snow storm of the winter. Yes - that is an exaggeration, but it sure does feel like it. Spring is in 32 days and while I look forward to more sunshine and blooming flowers & birds singing - I will miss the peacefulness that a winter snow storm envelopes us in. Today will be a great day for pastels and fiber! Especially since my DH ran off with my Jeep - Ok. I admit - he has to work on this holiday & I don't! Some one has too, right??? But - in all fairness, I did get to post 3 new KLAUDETTES this weekend. One of which already sold and the other 2 have bids! Plus, there was a special order too!! So - I think I am earning my keep just fine!! If you could take a moment and help "The Ship's Project" - it would really be appreciated. The Project's website is involved in a competition - the more clicks it gets -the more exposure! Therefore, there is a greater chance to reach more people to knit / crochet for the US military. You can VOTE once a day! Just scroll down to until you see "The Ship's Project". Then click away.

Finally - after a month of sketching & planning - I released my first "Klaudette" of the year!! The item itself, is called The WOOL Room. It is a roomy satchel that can pretty much accomodate - well, a lot of your wool room! Spindles, needles, dpn's, pocket looms - all the FUN stuff!! Of course, roving, wool and hand cards (did I really say that??) fit nicely too - with room to spare!! Creativity comes in bursts for me. I find the more I create - the MORE creative I am. So - look out! I will be spinning and or knitting tonight. The temperatures are still VERY cold and it is nice to have my fingers running thru some fiber - it is very comforting in this wacky world. I hope that you continue your journey of creating your masterpieces. After all - you are the only one in the Universe who can create something from your heart & soul. Please don't deprive all of us of your glorious wonder! TAG ME ... you are it!

Today - I mailed off my 15th pair of slippers for The Ships Project. I am excited about completing so many pair for such a worth while cause. I am REALLY even more excited as I have gotten several other people interested in the project! Word of mouth (AND email) is an invaluable resource. Yesterday - I actually used a spindle. It was the first time in a few days that I had spun anything. My time is being spent playing with my pastels & trying to learn French on my own. No easy task - I dare say! I have a tendency to 'flit' for one project to the next. I am not sure if this is more lack of concentration or focus. I will try to get better at both as I know it will help me in the long run. I hope you are having a productive week ... let me know!! I would love to soak up some creative energy from you! TAG ME ... touche!!

Bonjour!! Suffice to say - I have had a lot going on in recent days. Knitting, spinning, reading "The Artist Way" and "Simple Abundance", plus drawing!! I finally finished my first pastel and thought I would share it with you here. I am not sure what to call it - a drawing or a painting - oh heck!! I will just call it a "masterpiece". (Can you tell that I am pretty proud??) I have been drawing for as long as I can remember - which is actually longer than I have been knitting. I do have an amazing teacher who I *think* brings out the best of my style. This is actually a Bosworth spindle. I liked to draw the 'roundness' of the whorl and their craftsmanship made my job EZ-PZ! Let me know what you think - I am looking forward to my new career of 'STAR-ving Artiste' !! TAG ME ... touche!!

YIKES!! I can't believe all this time has passed since my last post. I know the Superbowl was last Sunday (yes! I was glued to the TV) - and that is the day I usually report my fibery happenings of the week. Well, life has gotten in the way - and I have decided that I will report fun, fibery, artsy 'doings' as I 'do' them. More fun, less 'reporting'. My pastel art classes are going well. I hope to post a picture soon. It is still a work in progress and I have promised my instructor that I would not touch it until my next lesson. It is a spindle with roving. Hmmm ... that would make quite a title! My instructor Kim, is AWESOME!! She opened her store after following her path set forth by "The Artist Way" (Julia Cameron). It is a phenomenal book pertaining to a higher level of creativity. I am reading it too, and, so far, I have yet to uncover any major items in my life. I will continue the journey - looking forward to every twist & turn. I also mailed out my 14th pair of slippers today for The Ships Project. I am so excited about this organization!! Please think of joining if you spin, knit or crochet! The military personnel really appreciate these warm woolen hugs from home! Tonight, I am not sure what kind of fibery adventure I will embark upon! Tonight just might be a great night to curl up under the handspun afghan and dream ... TAG ME ... touche!

Suffice to say: It has been VERY cold !! With the wind chill - it is brutal. Nothing warms the heart faster than a 'Happy Mail Day' !! The yarn I ordered as a belated Christmas gift to myself arrived .... yarn and sock pattern from Joslyn's Fiber Farm!! How I wish these socks were done NOW. I chose the 'Sammy Socks' pattern as the yarn is derived from samoyed rescues. It is a 50% samoyed/ 50% merino blend. Can we say W-A-R-M!!?? The colorway is called 'Moonbeams' - isn't that great?? I *think* 'Treebark' will be next on my list. I have used this yarn before ... 2 years ago, I made several warm scarves as Christmas gifts and heard nothing but compliments as to their warmth. ......... "Something for ME ... please!" My inner child has been screaming to get my attention ... well, she has it! Not only am I spinning a vest for myself - but I will also be knitting these socks. WOO-WHOO!! Come to think of it - the 'Treebark' colorway would really compliment the fiber for the vest - now - my inner child is screaming "CHARGE"!! Stay warm & wooly!! TAG ME ... touche!!

With all the football fun yesterday - I neglected Ol'Betsey!! (My name for my computer!) I am still weeding my way thru all the lists & emails ... it will probably take me sometime to do it too. This past week, wasn't overly fibery. I am reading both "The Artist Way" and "Simple Abundance" books and following their recommendations to living a more simple, creative life. I would venture a guess that would mean less TV - which would mean less football - but heck - the NFL games end next weekend anyway. (Then I will admit the thought of Arena football intrigues me!) Anywhoo - last week I completed a 2ply, 173 yard skein of a Cross Patch Creations colorway named "Victoria into the Woods" from The Bellwether . My friend Nancie was nice enough to let me have the last package that Amelia had earmarked for her ... thanks again Nancie!! I will now be working my way thru 5 bags - in the hope that it will become a vest for me!! I also completed my 11th pair of slippers for the Ships Project. With so many of our military deploying - seems like the need is great. I have included a photo of my latest pair (# 12) - I use the 'Favorite Slipper' pattern and I wanted to show you what they looked like prior to sewing. What is great about these slippers is they are knit with 2 strands of yarn on size 11 or 13 needles (they go quick)!! And they make great use of my spindle skeins. These slippers actually are made up of 5 different yarns - I do have a 'constant' 100% wool, commerical yarn running thru the whole slipper - but what a great way to use hand spun!! TAG ME ... touche!!

Lately, my mind has been on Spring! I had received some 'paper-white' bulbs for Christmas. They were planted (in a pretty container!) last week - and they are currently residing by my kitchen window - slowly soaking up the sun. Each day, they turn a little greener and a little taller. I look forward to drinking in their beauty and perfume when they bloom - but for now - my thoughts turn to the new beginnings that this change of seasons will bring! Don't get me wrong - I know Spring is still is the not to distant future -and I am still enjoying the snow & cold!! But - I do love the 'new beginnings' aspect of Spring! The days have already started to get longer - the seed catalogues are here and the studio cleaning has begun. Since my thoughts are racing around preparations for my outside gardens - I thought I would share with you a new book I just bought. It is called Fairie-ality. I have always loved the thought of fairys (or fairies) popping around our woodlands & gardens. I think that they protect our flora from the ill advances of human-kind. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, the noted doctor, states that she had actual photos of fairys that she had taken! (This revelation occurs in her book "The Wheel of Life" - a GREAT read!!). "Fairie-ality" is for those who love nature: flowers, feathers and a bit o' whimsy! AND with the approach of Spring - seems like fairy-dom has its wardrobe all set .... now, if only I could say the same thing!! TAG ME ... you are it!

I missed my Sunday confession! Sigh ... I guess that I was TOO involved with football. The season is all to quickly coming to an end. I am sad about that - as Sunday is 'my day': to rest; relax and regroup. I have always felt this way about Sunday - it is kind of a family day, just my husband & I , puttering around the house doing things separately, but yet 'together' if that makes sense. I do get a lot of fibery stuff done while watching/listening to sports. AND the really great thing is - if I happen to miss an important play - they always show it again on re-play!! That is pretty cool!! My fiber week went well, again all yarns completed are 2-ply: brown shetland, 34 yards; spring green bfl (the Copper Moth) 108 yards; GCNI 'Intrigue' (Running Moon Farm) 155 yards; oatmeal shetland 105 yards; black shetland 118 yards; and I completed my 10th pair of slippers for The Ships Project. Once again, I encourage one & all to participate in this worthy project - it seems like these hand made items are a real boost to those stationed far from their loved ones. I do have time to make someone else happy!! Speaking of being happy - The Daily Zen offers some great insight each day!! Try a random act of kindness each day this week - but Saturday, I am sure you will be positively GLOWING!! TAG ME ... you are it!

It's SUNDAY!! That means ... fiber 'Fession time!! This week was a rather productive one - given it was New Year's Eve / Day and it was UNdecorating time. So - I am pretty proud. I completed 2 FO's!! Hip Hip HOOray!! The first being my 9th pair of slippers for The Ships Project. These knit up SO fast that I have to slow myself down. If I knit to quickly - my hands start crying in agony. Sigh ... My second FO is a scarf for my 'Secret Santa' from work. (Our celebration is THIS month as everyone was just to tired to do it last month.) It is a superwash merino, hand spun yarn which I had purchased a while ago. I LOVE the stitch - it is called 'the purse stitich' - AND it is really EZ - PZ! I did it on size 5 needles in the hopes that it would make my yarn last as I only had one skein. The stitch itself is incredibly stretchy and it is perfect for a 'lacey-type' scarf. My spinning netted 2 skeins of 2 ply: a shetland / southdown blend, 29 yards and 'skunk' (a black & white layered roving) , 36 yards. Both these spindle skeins will go towards SIS's afghan. I hope you are having a great weekend! Let me know what you think of the scarf! TAG ME ... you are it!

HaPPy WHOLE Year - 2003!! I kind of shy away from the 'New Year' theme as I feel it suggests best wishes for just one or 2 days! I want to CELEBRATE the whole year ... as each day / season brings new opportunites to love; to create; and to work towards peace. The first 2 being really important for the third to happen. I will do my part this year ... please join me! I have been working feverishly on slippers for The Ships Project. See, love (for fellow human) + creating (knitting slippers) = peace. It may not be the world peace that we are all looking for - but I know it CREATES LOVE & PEACE in the hearts of the military personnel who receive them as well as THEIR family members who know that this one American appreciates their valiant efforts in defense of our freedoms! I have also decided, with the help of OPRAH - to do more for MY health this year. Not necessarily a diet - but just to watch what I eat & drink, and the portions to which they are given. Each time I DON'T have a snack or a second glass of wine or eat after supper, etc - I will reward myself. Hmmm - what I mean is - I will put $1 in an envelope that I will give to charity at the end of the month! Could be $5 - could be $50!! The way I look at it - I spend the $$ now or later ( medical bills, larger clothes, more food, etc). Seems like NOW is the better choice! I donated to GreyhoundFriends last month - this month, I think it will be ChildReach. LOVE + Creativity = PEACE. Maybe I should say - HaPPy WHOLENESS Year - 2003! TAG ME .... you are it!

Happy New Year to one and all!! It seems weird to think that this is the last day of the year 2002. Where is all the time going too?? It was a year marked, for me, with new beginnings and eventful ends to certain things in my life. I hope that 2003 is one filled with peace, love, health and some time management would be nice too. This last week has proven to be quite interesting - computer crashes really do create chaos!! I have missed NOT being on line and visiting with my cyber-friends. Which leads me to say that my cyber-friends have truly become part of my heart and I treasure them dearly! Now - since I was not up & running on Sunday - here is my fiber week in review! All these skeins are 2 ply. (I honestly don't think I would ever use a 1 ply hand spun - would you?) A lincoln / shetland skein, 111 yards; 'forgot' wool, 34 yards; white shetland, 21 yards; shetland/southdown X , 15 yards; and 'mystery' wool, 12 yards. These smaller, spindle spun skeins will be used for SIS's (matching) afghan for Christmas 2003. YAY!! I am tickled that she liked mine so much!! I also started a scarf for a secret Santa swap for work which will be held sometime in January. I am using an interesting stitch and I will go into more detail (with photo) when completed!! I hope that this message is the first of many ... I am fearful that ol' Betsey, my computer, is still not 100%!! Sigh ... I hope that 2003 serves you well!!! Stay safe & celebrate responsibly tonight!! TAG ME ... you are it!

Happy Day After Christmas!! I hope all those the celebrate the holiday - did indeed enjoy it! I also hope that Santa was good to you & yours!! Even though I wasn't in possession of the 315 million dollar Powerball ticket - I did perfectly fine!! Hazel Rose Looms!! A Bosworth spindle in grenadilla!! The Sock Calendar!! Soaps from Goodies Unlimited!! Bruins tickets!! HO! HO! HO! But - the fun didn't stop there - today I ordered a sock kit from Joslyn's Fiber Farm!! OK - I had asked for one - didn't get it - so in the patriotic spirit of things (buy! buy! buy!) - I did!! I ordered the basic sock kit in Sammy yarn / color 'Moonbeams". If I enjoy doing it - I think I must also have the colorway "Treebark"!! ~~ Christmas itself was spent with family! It was a grand time - in a good old fashioned, New England snowstorm! Kudos to the people of 'JEEP' for making remarkably durable vehicle!! Thank-you!! ~~My MOM also gifted me with 'THE AFGHAN'!! She crocheted this Granny Square afghan!! It has taken a year to complete. It is also totally hand spun by MOI!! Completely all natural sheepie colors - all but the border was drop spindled. The border - a BL / coopworth X named 'Heady" was wheel spun. It fits comfortably on a twin sized bed - but it will be used in the den when a chill is in the air! My SIS wants one next Christmas - same colors - I will just need to find a grey fleece for her border!! AND - I have already begun spinning for it!! Christmas 2003 - will NOT catch me unawares!! Check this out: Christmas Countdown Clock!! I will keep it as a link in the side bar ... just to keep ME on my toes!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

Only 3 day until Christmas - OK - 2 shopping days ... boy, time DOES fly when one is unprepared. I am not saying that I am a total lost cause - but I do vow to start thinking of Christmas 2003 on January 1, 2003! That should give me plenty of time to get things completed, wrapped and sent out in a timely manner. More importanly - I want to ENJOY the season. This is the most magical time of all and everyone around me is stressed, unfocused and uncentered. This disharmony spreads havoc & chaos like a disease. That is why I vow to manage my Christmas-EE 'self' better next year. I spun a great deal today - and will continue tonight as the Patriots play a must win game against the NY Jets. Go PATRIOTS!! Anywhoo - in my 'fibery confession' segment, I completed a 112 yard, 2 ply skein of "Heady" , a BL/ coopworth X for the now infamous and yet to be completed afghan; 68 yards, 2 ply merino which will be used in a pair of slipper for The Ships Project and last but not least, a 25 yard, 2 ply skein of coopworth which I spun on my hatchtown production. I love having these little skeins around!! I also painted my holiday KLAUDETTE studio pillow - which I hope will arrive at its destination before Tuesday. I hope that everyone is able to relax and enjoy the abundant miracles of the season!! TAG ME ... you are it!!

I have been very remiss about posting of late!! AND I feel as there is no particular cause of the 'blog hiatus". Sure, I can blame work or Christmas or illness or 101 other varied excuses. But, excuses are what they would be!! I *think* that I just needed a few mental health days to concentrate on ME & MY things. 'My things' are laundry & grocery shopping! House cleaning & dog time!! Christmas shopping & Klaudette drawing!! All take time & energy - and a few days here and there are definitely warranted!! I DID break my 'fiber hiatus'!! I made 30 days without buying fiber. I cracked when a fellow spindler started her own dYe shop! Alice's 'Wonderland dYeworks' is open for business and the BFL batts are just beautiful! .... my 2 colorways arrived today! "Just before Sunrise" and "Forest Rainbow". She doesn't have her website up yet - but I will post it when she does!! The batts feel heavenly / the colors to dYe for!! - and maybe I will play with them on the wheel tonight. We will see - I am not making plans just yet! I will post my fiber confessions THIS coming Sunday! There wasn't to much to post about last week - and unless I go gangbusters tonight & tomorrow - there won't be too much fiberness to discuss THIS Sunday either!! And Christmas is less than a week away!! Are YOU ready?? TAG ME .. you are it!!

Fibery 'Fession Time!! And I must say - I am not overly proud of my lack of production this week. I DID complete a KLAUDETTE, which sold in one day on eBay!! YAY!! I DID complete and mail my 8th pair of slippers for The Ships Project!! I absolutely LOVE making these things!! AND I am glad that some wonderful member of our military is able to keep their feet warm because of my handspun!!! I DID also finish a 2ply, 123 yard skein for the afghan my Mom is making. Last week I incorrectly stated that this afghan was a 2 year work in progess. It has actually just been a year!! Seems like it has been forever!! I *might* even suggest to my sister that Mom & I collaberate on another afghan for her family for NEXT Christmas!! Sigh .... projects! Projects and MORE Projects!! This week - I hope to do more. I still need to Christmas shop - but our tree is UP!! No small feat considering all the STUFF we had to move out of the way to get to the attic 'crawl space' door!! Did I mention this door is in my studio???? TAG ME .... you are it!

COLD! That is the best way to describe today ... I mean, this is like January COLD! What is a girl to do except laundry & shop! Hey, with Christmas just around the corner - I must start!! But, today was also a day of gifts!! In the mail, from my friend Stasia I received a wonderful box of goodies!! A statue of the Southeast Light on Block Island (how cool is that??), stickers, a spindle holder for my Klaudette bags!!, hand lotion , a little bit o'beach and a cookie mold in the shape of lighthouses! How could I be cold after remembering all the fun I had in the surf & sun just a mere 2 months ago?? Boy - does time fly. This box really & truly boosted by spirits. Thanks Stas!! BUT - I still HAD to shop. It was a retail therapy kind of day. Chuck, if you are reading this **STOP**!! warning Christmas gifts for me ahead ......... first, I ordered myself some new soaps!! Aubrey of Goodies Unlimited makes the best soap in the world. My favorite - the Stress Free, Green Tea soap. Those antioxidants work wonders!! I also ordered myself the new Sock Calendar . Doesn't it look like FUN?? AND - maybe, just maybe a spindle or 2 - but that remains to be seen!! Still - no fiber!! Today, I celebrate my 29th day! It has been hard - but things are looking good!! Hope your day was as wonderful as mine!! TAG ME ... you are it!

The long week end is over. I will be glad to slow down my life again - living at the speed of sound is not my cup of tea. For the next three weeks - it will be more of this hectic pace which utterly DRAINS me. My spirit weakens - my soul collapses. Then - I get cranky! It is cold here - and they are predicting colder weather for this week. Wood stove time!! Woo-WHOO! It is usually lit everynight to take the chill off the house and us. It warms the heart, soul & mind! It is truly one of my favorite things that I love about our home! It is confession time for me ... and I actually DID get a good amount of spinning accomplished!! Here goes .... (all are 2 ply skeins) greeen corridale, 91 yards; a finn X & alpaca blend 32 yards; a corridale & GCNI blend, 15 yards; a wool & angora blend, 15 yards; a coopworth, BL X , 93 yards; and shetland, 25 yards. You can pretty much tell what I did on a spindle! All of the natural colored skeins were given to my Mom as she is crocheting an afghan for us. This afghan has been in the works for 2 years. It would be nice to have it for THIS Christmas, but I don't thing it will happen. I can dream though!! What did accomplish this week? TAG ME ... you are it!