My "Knit Picks"
blocking wires arrived today. If you ask me, they arrived just in time!

I have been working on Tallulah Chris' Gift of Friendship Scarf. I love the pattern ... it is so simple - but yet so elegant. I am using my hand dyed lace weight in Sweet Sea Clouds. Both the design & colorway are perfect for blue jeans! YiPpEE!

If you are looking for a wonderful lace scarf pattern .... I highly recommend Chris' design! Thanks for sharing Chris!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Can I tell you a secret? I am not into "American Idol".

I have put it on maybe 5 times since it first appeared on the tube. I know that I am in the minority and I am 'ok' with that. But, last night - I watched.

It started out innocently - the remote could find nothing that held my interest. When I happened upon "American Idol" - I noticed that they were doing something unique - something different - something worthwhile for all humanity.

I was hooked. "Idol Gives Back" was one of those shows that made me shed a tear and sob a bit. It made me stop and think how very, very lucky I am.

DH & I don't have kids. We have our dogs and the parrot that rules the roost but we try to always do the right thing. In my mind, if I ever get interviewed and someone asks what my 'one wish' is ... I would say "I wish we would learn to share."

We teach children to do it all the time, expect it even ... but, as we grow into adult hood we forget. Sure, we all throw a buck here & there to various interests ... but do we really share, from our hearts? Even before last night ... I had been thinking of this for a while.

Today, I want to share something with you. One of the charities who will benefit from the $30 million + raised last night is Save the Children. Their website goes into detail about sponsorships, donations, programs, where they work, etc. They do wonderful work! So, what is it that I want to share with you? "Shaina"! She is my sponsored 'child' & has been for a while.

We send letters and/or emails! I smile when I think of her AND I glow inside knowing that for a few skeins of yarn or a few bottles of wine a month - I am helping her, her family, her community & basically the whole planet.

Sharing - it is a good thing! Here is my beautiful "Shaina"!

I admire those fellow fiber artists who can create the most intricate of designs in seemingly effortless fashion. These are the people who can take a complex Nordic sweater or a lacey shawl and have it completed within a week.

Yes - I do admire them ... but I am also jealous.

I know my time management skills are a little, shall we say, nonexistent - but I tend to work around this fact by knitting my little heart out when need be.

Take make socks for instance: I had them completed in 10 days.

The Roses on My Pillow colorway is just perfect and the k3 x p1 rib showcases the yarn nicely.

Suffice to say ... I have already started a scarf. After that is done, I am thinking shawl or sweater. I have yet to try a Nordic Olympic design .... but I don't know if summer is a great time to start. (To uncomfortable to knit in the heat?) I must think on that.

Of course, I don't mind spinning in the warm weather. My 'Fraid Knot skeins are back. This is #4 in an on going series. I LOVE to Navajo pLy! Can you tell?

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Sometimes I just can't believe how long it takes me in between posts! There are times when I type like wild-fire - other times, I am as slow as molasses flowing uphill. Don't you just love visuals??

This post lies in between. :)

I have been busy knitting a pair of sox (hopefully they will be finis this week ... as well as doing a wee bit of dyEing and carding! Check out the goodies!

Camilla is quite captivating, yes?

And What A Pumpkin Head! just screams fun!!

Who knows what I will be doing next .... all I know is that it will be FUN!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

It is pouring rain this afternoon. I am sure some folks are getting snow ... others thunder & lightning. It is a good day to stay huddled by the woodstove - knitting on my sox. (Yes ... it is *my* own hand painted yarn in the "Roses on My Pillow" colorway!)

I feel self indulgent knitting for myself. But, while the charity knitting is on the 'back burner' at the moment - I am grateful that there are other ways to help the world heal.

Every Easter - DH & I always host. It has been that way since we were married. Nothing is spared ... my dinners are complete with games & prizes! (How many BLACK jelly beans in the pot? The male / female who came closest won a fair isle hat & fair isle mittens as prizes!)

I take it upon myself to beg on this occasion. My family is pretty cool about it - they are used to bringing canned goods for the local food pantry OR dollars for a collection near and dear to my heart.

This year - it was the later and after the Easter Bonnet was passed funds raised are being sent to PittieLOVE! I have met these folks and some of their available Bullys - can you tell I am in love with this breed? It was thru "PittieLOVE" that I met a lab named "BO". And right now - he needs all of us. Read his info HERE.
Please make a donation to his FUNd and pass the word. Thanks and WOOF!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I have finally decided what my next project will be: Sox for ME!

It has been a while since I have knit an adult pair - I wanted something relatively quick & painless. While I enjoy knitting socks - I will admit to not being overly persnickety over elaborate designs. That being said, in multicolored yarns, I like the yarn itself take control and do it's own kind of dance.

I found a pattern over at Spun Magazine that seemed to be perfect. A K3 x P1 rib. No 'slouchy' socks. No infamous 'ladders' that DPNs love to create. (Naturally, it is never the knitter's fault - 'ladders' are always caused by the DPNs!)

VOILA!! Basic Ribbed Socks! I only started them yesterday, I am hoping they only take me a week to complete as I see so many things that I crave to knit! Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I know that it has been a few days since I posted. The last 10 days have been a flash of knitting needles and a whirl wind of cleaning. DH & I hosted the Easter Holiday - therefore BIL's Christmas gift (the dubblemossa) just 'begged' to be completed.
I am happy to say that the hat is finis! (No photos though - truth be told, I was kind of sick of looking at it!)
But - it is completed ... I am thrilled! ... BIL is thrilled! And now, I feel like I am ready to do something/anything for me. I haven't decided what *IT* will be ... Sox? Shawl? Summery top? I don't know ... At this time - I am just estatic to declare myself UFO Free!

Now - I feel like I can catch up on stuff that I have 'let slide'. Nothing major you understand - just stuff that requires a wee bit of time and attention. Something like ordering new dog collars.

Dog collars are vital as they do contain pertinent information about the dog, it's vaccines & hopefully it's human parents. My dogs wear their collars all the time ... I would rather be safe, then sorry.

Given the fact that my dogs like to "look good" - I was so very grateful to my dear friend Stas when she informed me that "Hugs for Homeless Animals" get the proceeds whenever they sell "Lupine Collars/Leads". I love Lupine ... they last forever - are even guaranteed by the company AND come in "the best & brightest" prints ever!

Now that it is Spring .... it is time to fancy up your dog or cat. If you need a new collar - please purchase one that will help save a life!

Motu will be stylin' in "Doggie Dreams" - look how pretty the red is against that beautiful blue! Diesel will be looking mighty dapper in his new "Brooktrout!"

And yes - just because these collars last forever - what is so bad about changing them with the seasons? ggg
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

As Creatives - at some point - each of us suffers from a Nemesis of some sort. It might be a UFO, or a commissioned project that doesn't sing to our soul. It might even be a deadline that was both long in reaching yet very short incoming. Ah ... the Nemesis!

Suffice to say - my current nemesis is the Dubblemossa. It isn't like it has just been started ... I only have 28 pattern rows left (and then, of course, the multi inch stockinette in steel grey for it's innards.)

Words of encouragement are appreciated ... as well as the proverbial kick in my knitted bloomers!
Wish me luck .... Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Spring was in the air today. I must admit - the fresh air smelled like heaven and the sunshine was a total delight.

While I love all the seasons - Spring is just energizing! Could be the longer days ... could be the fact that I can work out of doors comfortably ... could be that I love hanging laundry on the line and having it dry! The list goes on and on ... I like that.

I know Spring has greeted many over the last several weeks and while Easter is upon us - I can't help thinking that Summer isn't very far behind. That, scares me! I mean, when did it get to be the end of March?

(My mother was right - time flies as you get older ... but, I am not older .... YET!)

Yes - Spring is here ... and I thought I would share a wee bit of Springtime with you! Meet MayBelle! WhEEEE!

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I bet your dogs are as lucky as mine. If you don't have dogs - I am pretty confident that if you are reading ARTsy/knitting/spinning BloGs - any animal in your care is treated as a valued member of your family. YAY!

Over the course of the last week, I have been horrified by the way Pit Bull dogs are treated/handled/discriminated against. Actually - they are profiled. I know the horror stories too ... I find it unfair that we label a whole breed as 'bad' just because that is what the media wants us to believe. Sensationalism sells.

Well, this coming weekend - I am putting my $$ where my mouth is and I am going to meet a few. I just can't wait - seriously, I am overJOYed at the prospect! While we can not add to our present family (please read, Diesel doesn't want a sibling!) there will come a time when I would be honored if a pit bull would come to live with me!

Now Diesel being the 'good boy' that he his - does feel a wee bit upset at his inability to share his home ... so, he & his sister Motu are putting their $$ where their mouths are too - They are sponsoring "Maxwell Smart" - you can't tell me that this pup isn't the cutest thing EVER? Maxwell Smart is the top pup on the sponsorship page! Maybe he could come live with you?

While I have been enthralled with Pit Bull research - I am still getting some carding done! Take a look at Flying Cowgirl!

Giddy UP! Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! AND - please try to adopt a pet before you buy ... there are so many that need forever homes. Comments, please!

Balance is such an important thing. I am working on ways to find 'better balance.' It sounds easy - it is proving to be a challenge.

I have to much stuff. To many dishes. To many Tshirts. To many spices that have been in the cupboard for years. And I won't even begin to tell you how many bars of hotel soap are in the linen closet.

So, while I am learning to appreciate the small moments in life - I am also learning to practice 'better balance'. No *new* tshirts can enter unless some older ones are either rehomed or made into cleaning cloths. No new dishes or glassware until some overly used ones are recycled. No more hotel soap ... I just can't use it all in one lifetime - I have actually banned it from entering the house.

Traveling the road of 'better balance' is good. Of course - one usually stumbles upon a road block here & there. Luckily, some road blocks are sweeter than others. Such is the case of "Sweet Pea", a beautiful jacob fleece

She can come to play with me as I am releasing some yarn into the Universe in the form of a hat, a pair of mittens and baby sox (the other soxlette is on the needles and will be completed tonight!) I just LOVE knitting for Charity!

Isn't *Balance* the best?
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please.

Now that our clocks have changed - I feel like I am getting more completed. I do believe that it is all imaginary. I am not doing anything differently than I was last Tuesday, but I feel more energized.

That is good ... I will take it. More time is always a gift from the Heavens. Time is one thing I know I take for granted. I am working on this as I know all time is way to short. Do we really have enough time in the day to create? To knit? To love? To do chores? I suppose we do, if we manage it wisely and don't let the 'junk' creep
into our souls. (Sorry, I really don't care that Britney is bald or that Paris hasn't been in the news for a bit and why-o-why are we still speaking about Anna Nicole's sad demise? These tidbits belong in their lives & in the lives of those who love them.) But, I digress .... time is what we make of it and I am really sure that ALL time is meant to be enjoyed.

I have been busy knitting more charity goods as well as spinning and dyEing. I have discovered that I actually have more time than I ever thought I did. I can knit an EZ PZ ribbed hat at work in the brief snippets of time that become available. While others may be able to do a more difficult pattern, K2 P1 works for me as I work with kids and have my attention diverted frequently. I don't have to concentrate on the pattern - it just flows ... the kids like to look at what I am doing & they ask questions - which is great, and someone, somewhere will appreciate the hat's warmth! I love the fact that I am also keeping sheepies very busy - producing the beautiful wools that I use. HaPpY Kary - HaPpY Universe!

Did you want to have a peek at the dyEing? I think I have captured another sunset in Celeste
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Very rarely do I post on Sundays. Weekends for me are just that - the end of a work week ... it is time to relax, recharge and spend some well earned quality time with DH & the pet kids.

I know that I am *the* luckiest girl in the world to have such a wonderful family. I really, really am!

I also know that my pups are pretty lucky too. I am ever so honored that they were entrusted to me ... tonight, I send out the call to the Universe that "Bella" needs a forever home - RIGHT NOW. All the info is HERE!

If you could pass this info on ... maybe on your BloG or maybe to your email list ... the Universe will appreciate it. I will appreciate it. "Bella" will really, really appreciate it.

Only 28 more pattern rows left in the Dubblemossa! How very cool. Of course, in the scheme of things - I still have about 9" of stockinette left to do as well - but, that should fly by once started.

I find it amazing that my attention span can be so .... minimal. Who knew?

Anyway, one thing I am loving is knitting my charity hats. These 2 babies weigh in at 9.3 oz! Does a heart good knowing that someone somewhere will be a little warmer because of a few sticks, some wool and a little effort.

Remember the Navajo Plying? Well, the hat in the background is knit from that yarn. Fun stripes, yes?? I did combine it with a handspun milk chocolate blend as I knew I would not have enough of the NP yarn. Today, I will do recon of the patterns once again .... I am in the mood for more charity knitting this weekend. The Dubblemossa will have to wait until Monday!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I have been both feverishly working on the Dubblemossa (yes - it was supposed to be a Christmas gift for BIL - it will now hopefully be an Easter gift instead!) and charity knitting projects.

Yesterday, when going thru my handspun stash - I came upon 2 skeins of Navajo plyed yarn. I make these skeins when I have stocked piled various colors of hand carded batts.

Navajo Plying is easy - although the concept itself can be a wee bit confusing when digesting the written word. If you can visualize "crocheting a chain" - there is the concept behind NP. It really is a great way to keep colors distinct. Because the final yarn has a 3-ply thickness - my yarn is usually classified as a 'bulky weight'.

Suffice to say - I began knitting a charity hat - breaks of color add such excitement & cool striping! I miss Navajo plying as it has been a while since I had extra batts lying around for *ME* to play with. Hmmmm .... I wonder how long I can wait on the Dubblemossa? Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

My fascination with overdyeing is still going strong. There is no rhyme or reason to it - it is just spontaneous & unpredictable. I like that.

Many times, I think that we lose our sense of fun & wonder as we grow older. Thing become stagnant, mundane. Sure - I can measure dye with the best of them - but right now - I am just having way to much fun being 'spontaneous & unpredictable'!

Color elicits such emotion & attitude. One person's favorite color is another person's 'ick'. Another person's red is another person's pink. Isn't it neat that something SO simple can create such passion?

Here is a skein I overdyEd still in the pot. It might become a charity knitting project as it is a worsted weight. (BTW - I finished my 10th hat this week - it will be headed to Dulaan..... YAY!) Isn't it pretty? Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I have some good news to share: The Knotty Sheep thus far, has raised over $70 to be donated to GREYhound Friends! YiPpEE and thank EWE!

I know that it isn't a million bucks, it isn't even in the triple digits .... (yet!) - but I am tickled all the same. All dogs are my passion and rescue dogs have a special place in my heart.

If you are looking for a dog-friend, please check out your local shelters and rescue organizations. If you find yourself in Cape Cod and want so make someone's heart soar ... check out Blackie - he could really use a good, loving, forever home!

Please pass the word - with all the knitters & spinners out there - Blackie should be finding his forever home soon ... thanks and "Woof"!

I am the perfect homebody!

It doesn't take to much to keep me happy or entertained. I love staying by the woodstove - all cozy and warm. I delight with napping dogs at my feet and a glass of wine by my side. Now is a good time to tell you - I don't even have cable.

Winter is good for quiet relaxation & serious contemplation.

It is the perfect time for a little soul searching. As I sit and wait for some mind blowing revelation or lightbulb moment to ignite my brain waves - I have been doing a wee bit of dyEing & carding!



"Lovers in the Garden" is a totally artsy colorway! Those color bits just scream fun, don't they?

What about"It's Cocktail Hour Somewhere" - sassy colors are tres eye catching!

And last but not least - "Cheyenne" - who goesn't love the colors of sunset?

Ah winter .... did I mention it is the perfect season for wool (and a perfect time to cyber-shop?) :)
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I have been trying to think of "what I should do next." A nice charity project? A longish cardigan for me? A pair of fair isle mittens for next Christmas ...

Suffice to say - I have been doing "recon" of my patterns and stash - trying to find the right combination that will soothe the savage knitting beast within. As of this post - I am still empty handed - nothing has peeked my interest.

I have high hopes that something will jump out a me ... until then, my spinning wheel will keep me occupied.

Of course - 2 pampered dogs will keep me on my toes too. Look out when the 9 year old gets going ...more than once I have put myself in harms way to protect my wheel. Should I mention Diesel weighs over 100 pounds? But, isn't he the cutest thing ever? Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Another Valentine's Day has come & gone. Truth be told - I am not really 'into' it.

While the notion of romance is in the air - most of us see 'that' almost as much as we see a chubby cherub flying around shooting arrows thru the hearts of the unsuspecting. Even after a few cocktails - I have yet to see a winged baby with dangerous weapons!

Don't get me wrong - I am a romantic. I drool over hearts & lace. I get happily excited in seeing red & pink - everywhere! I love the nostalgia of long ago school-time Valentine's that were passed out amongst classmates. Tell me truthfully - didn't you always give the best card to the guy who made your heart flutter?

Ah romance .... !

Yesterday - I was happily surprised that DH actually celebrated the day! I love French music ... the accordians & robust lyrics! The tunes are filled with such passion that it is hard not to imagine yourself sipping wine at a sidewalk cafe! While some may scoff at the minimalistic nature of receiving a French music CD on Diamond studded-Rose scented holiday .... I say "Turn up the volume and pour another glass of wine ... it is time to dance with Cupid!" Thanks DH - you still make my heart flutter!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I am in the midst of change. I am unsure if it has more to do with wanting to rid myself of 'stuff' OR finding 'simpler' stuff. Do collectibles go out the door so homemade cookies and old fashioned aprons may enter?

I am becoming more devoted to a slower paced life. I am yearning to appreciate the small steps that I take daily - whether if that means sending a card or letter to a friend, making a delicious home cooked meal, grooming one of my dogs or singing a silly duet with my parrot. It is the small steps that have a tendancy to get run over during the daily business called life.

If we give gratitude and thanks - we don't crash & burn. It is that simple.

Today, I found THE BEST hand lotion ever. Yes - I am grateful for this discovery! This lotion is wonderful. It is brillant. It is from France and it makes my hands as soft as a baby's bum!! I love the fact that is contains lavender ... my flowery alter ego!! I had never ventured into (OK - I admit it - I have never even heard of)
L'Occitane before ... but, WOW - they have a new favorite customer! Yes - it is that simple!

Don't you just love the plain tube-look?
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

As most of us sit in front of our TVs or computer - we have a knack of complaining about the world. There are many stories that sicken us daily and even more that break our hearts. The really terrible thing about the situation is ... we have the power to change the world and to make a difference.

If all of us chime in ... with loud voices and dollars in hand (and yes - this does mean to respect the people, nature & inanimate things around us!)... the world will be happier and healthier.

Not to many of us will become the Dalai Lama or Mother Teresa. But each of us is a ripple on the ocean of humanity. When ripples join together - waves happen.

Two causes that come to mind: Wolves Lose ESA Protections! "The price to kill a wolf is cheaper than a large pizza: Idaho residents pay $9.75 to kill a wolf. (It costs more if you're from out-of-state.) " (Quote taken from The Petition Site.) Seems illogical and totally outrageous! Are these the people whom we have elected and pay their salaries? Makes you think, does it not? Sign this Petition and save a wolf!

Breast Cancer. It seems in this day and age - we all know someone who has been touched by this killer. As my friend Stasia says - "Pink scarves are easy!". A wonderful woman I work with has decided to participate in the 2 Day "Avon Walk for Breast Cancer"/ Boston. As she trains in 12 degree weather - I admire her focus and ability to remain upbeat in the wind chill. I cheer her on - with words of encouragement and fistfuls of dollars. For her to participate in the Walk, she must raise $1800. Of course, anything above and beyond is pure JOY for those who are doing the research to end this disease. Instead of a latte OR a new skein of yarn today - please consider a donation to her Walk! Imagine ... if everyone who read both mine & Stasia's BloG donated $5 to Denise's walk ... WOW!!

Please pass these two causes on to your friends & families. Celebrate your voice - celebrate your life by making a difference!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Don't you just tingle when you absolutely love doing something? I know that I have mentioned that I am having a love affair with Navajo Churro wool - seriously - I am spinning it daily much to the chagrin of my knitting needles!

My poor wheel is tired ... but, I just can't stop. It spins so wonderfully - and I am loving the fact that by spinning this wool - I am supporting this rare breed. It will continue to thrive and prosper and little old me is assisting this cause! How very, very cool!

But, I digress - you must see the colors in which this fantastic fiber has been dyed. Can you tell that I have rug hooking on my mind?? Aren't they pretty?

I love the subtle shade differences. As an artist I will attest that shading brings out depth in any piece. It adds such professionalism to your work! They are available HERE. They are first come / first served. They are sold in 2 skein lots for some serious shading! I know that you will love them as much as I do!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I ask you to bear with me as I learned how to put 'watermarks' on photos this weekend. It has been interesting as my computer skills are not extensive. High tech and I have a love/hate relationship.

That being said ... I love adding watermarks!

While it took me a very, very long time to master this skill - I did manage to complete another Charity hat! This brings my total to 8. How gratifying to know that there will be 8 warmer heads in the world ... and I truly love the fact that I am using my handspun!

Spinning is something that I do pretty much daily. I love the way wool varies from breed to breed - and different sheepies within the same breed can vary greatly. The fleece of a particular sheep from year to year can even be quite different. One person's course wool is another person's 'merino'. I spin it all ... and pretty much wear it all.

I am currently on a Churro high! The Navajo-Churro sheep is listed as 'threatened' by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. I find this wool amazing and to be so closely tied to the Navajo makes my knees weak. Did I mention I was in AWE?

But check out pearl grey "Yazzie" on the left and "Kos" on the right! I just wanted to do a face plant into these Churros today!!

And "Katherine"? Well, this churro is already spun. Hmmm .... stay tuned to find out what happens next! WhEEEE!

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

This weekend was chilly. I was in heaven. So were my dogs. I find it weird that they are unfazed by wind chill factors in the single digits. I am even pretty amazed that they are still eager to rush outside and gleefully romp in the frigid air.

I joined them for a bit. After all, I DO have warm wool sox, hats, scarves, mittens and sweaters! (Yes - the waiter at the French Bistro we visited said I looked just like I had skiied the Alps ... *got* to love a nice Dale of Norway sweater!) AND - I also figure I burn more calories in the COLD. Not such a bad thing.

But, it also reminds me that many of us do not have warm beds, warm houses, warm clothes. My friend Stasia (who has *the* cutest goaties ... ever!) recently told me that she 'appreciates' the cold as it makes her aware of what she (we) take for granted. How true ... thanks Stas! I will keep the needles going for Dulaan, CIC or whomever else needs knitted garments!

The chilliness also allowed me to do some decorating. I have placed my new watercolor created by Miss Paris Breakfasts herself, Carol Gillot, right on my Kitchen Counter. Got to love ART!

Remember to stay warm - and help someone else BE warm! Comments, please!

Being organized in not my strong suit. In the scheme of things ... not only is not my 'strong suit' - it isn't even my closet! Try as I might - yarn, wool, drawing/painting supplies - all get the best of me. When I am not looking, in the dark corners of night - they multiply. 2 bags of wool become 5. 5 skeins of yarn become 15 ... and the art supplies - we won't even go there as each particular genre has it's own nuance.

Needless to say ... the Kreative Muse begins to drown.

My friend Stasia sent me a wonderful article from Daily OM - do read it, especially if your Muse is drowning too. It is an eye-opener!

On that note - I destashed a wee bit today .... 10 Skeins of NORO - anyone?? Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Not to much happening on the drawing front! I purchased new Derwent Graphite pencils and I am awaiting their arrival. Seriously - I can't wait for them to come.

So - I have been soothing my soul by knitting. What wonderful recreation. I truly think if more people knit, crocheted, spun or wove - the world would be much happier.

I recently found a small snippet (somewhere) which had "5 Rules for Happiness". I saved them - and remind myself of their importance daily. Since I like to share - here they are:
Free your heart from hatred; Free your mind from worries; Live Simply; Give More;
Expect Less.

I recently took some wool I overdyed (more on that in another post - I LOVE overdyeing!) and 2 skeins of handspun and turned them into a couple of hats for Dulaan! I still have more so guess what?? Yep - I am still knitting for Dulaan!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART ... Remember to practice the 5 Rules for Happiness too !! Comments, please!

I received some lovely Moleskin sketch books this Christmas. Pretty, aren't they?

I feel it is imperative to draw as often as possible - not only will I grow as an artist - I will also re-learn how to SEE like an artist.

Well, my sketch books were at home - and I was at work. Working in a preschool does allow for some interesting subjects. This tiny sketch was done on copy paper and a "regular" #2 pencil. WhEEEE!

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

HaPpY 2007! .... Seems over said as well as over stated - but here we are in a brand new year. I look forward to the Kreative Journey which I have begun to embark upon.

Yesterday was spent spinning wonderfully rich colors of wool!

Today, thus far, has been spent in the studio - organizing, tossing, rearranging ... all to stimulate and awaken the Muse.

I have been getting inspirations from "Everday Matters". Danny Gregory and his EDM group provides constant support and challenges!

But, as I sit with my cup of coffee in hand - typing away - I also realize that I am a wee bit intimidated. Am I fearful of the journey? Am I afraid of failure? Am I trying to do or be something I am not?

All of these are good Q's ... I guess any journey involves self discovery.

I leave you with a pastel I did a while ago. I am hoping it will give me courage.

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

The New Year is upon us ... time to bid au revoir to the old and bienvenue the new. Times of change are so refreshing.

I typically do not make 'resolutions'. My past history dictates that I always lack the follow thru required to keep them. It is all good though, I know this is going to be one totally Kreative Year for me!

So - I will venture forth into 2007 with knitting needles, wool, paint brushes, sketch books and spinning wheels tucked under my arm. My goal is to Kreate and make my small corner of the planet just a wee bit better for all!

HaPpY New Year!
*** Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!!*** Comments, please!

Christmas 2006 is now behind me. I am sad that it is now a good, no - scratch that - I am sad that is now a GREAT memory. It seems that the build up goes on for 6 long weeks - only to implode in a matter of hours.

C'est la vie. Weddings are the same way.

At least I have figured out that Christmas 2007 is in 362 days! Ah .... something to soothe my Elfin Soul! My friend Denise says I have "OCED" ... Obsessive Complusive Elf Disorder. I must agree. Truthfully - I have made notes for the coming Christmas Holiday. I do better if I am prepared.

Santa was good to me and there was absolutely NO stress. Remember how I love the small moments? Well, this past weekend was filled to the brim with them! I hope you were able to savor yours.

As I look ahead to 2007 - I look forward to a year filled with microscopic memories and pixels of Kreativity! I hope you will join me. As I say on my side bar ... the Playground is FUN when there are more kids playing!!

Today, I dyEd and carded up a storm! I have totally "Gone Batty"! How about YOU?

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Santa is coming! Santa is coming!
A HUGE part of me still can not believe it is Christmas. I mean, wasn't I just typing not so long ago - that it was something like 200 degrees under a broiling summer sun?

Time flies - but I am enjoying the small moments. If one lives by small moments you can actually remember things like what you did, what you ate, and what you wore. In times which are frantic - these small, special moments are the one to savor.

As we head into 2007 - I am looking forward to an incredibly Kreative Year. One with twists and turns, curves and loop-D-loops, swirls and spirals. Embarking on a journey with straight lines seems a wee bit boring, yes?

One of the first things on being Kreative, is surrounding yourself with those who inspire. Take a look at paintings by Paris Breakfasts - AKA: Carol Gillot. Her work is inspirational and it truly makes you want to run to a local patisserie for a quick sugar buzz. Tres Beau!

My Dear friend, Stasia is very much the Muse. She made these wonderful things for me a while ago, and this past week, I wore them to DH's work Christmas Party. How can one not feel special when displaying such fine art pieces? The scarf was woven out of my "Mermaids Singing to Starfish" colorway and the jewels? WOW - so bling bling sparkly! Each charm has a special connection to my life.

Thanks again, Stas! You are such an inspiration!

Start the New Year Kreatively!! I will keep you posted on my journey!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Have I mentioned how much I am enjoying Christmas this year?

Yep ... I am feelin' the love and goodwill towards all! In the past, the intensity of the season has been overwhelming. Gifts! Bows! Cookies! Cleaning! Cards! .... you name it! I have tried to do it all in the hopes that I do not disappoint. Well, the only one who has been disappointed is me.

No more .... I love Christmas. Love the lights, love the music, love the surprises, and the closeness of family and friends. If you ask me - it is over way to soon.

This coming year - I have high hopes for a totally Kreative year! I also have high hopes to do more for those less fortunate.

So, sit, relax and enjoy all that you can. Instead of buying more gifts - BE a gift!! Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Christmas will be here in 9 days. WOW!

That is pretty much all I can say. I still have packages that need to be placed in the post ... a few cards that need to be signed ... and a few things that need to be bought and placed under the tree. There is only one thing left to knit (Dubblemossa) .... and I am thinking that will become an "Epiphany" gift in January. Such is life outside of Whoville.

Two gifts are completed and await their turn at the wrap table ... nephew's St. Anton mittens and niece's lace scarf knit from alpaca. Got to love the fact that they are blocked too .... suffice to say, I have given damp woolies - fresh off the blocking pad in the past and the recipients, well .... they just didn't know what to say ....

In the spirit of the "9 Days left and counting down" - if you still need a quick gift for a fiber fanatic - I do know a place where you can get some Blueberry Moonshine .... Wink! Wink!
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I can remember making a promise to myself last year at this time - "Next Christmas - I will be ready!"

So much for promises. It isn't that I am totally befuddled in my gift making & purchasing. It is more like I have forgotten how to enjoy the Christmas Magic. More importantly - I am dismissing the notion of Christmas magic altogether.

Don't get me wrong - I am not "BAA-hum-bugging" it. I am quite taken with the sounds of Christmas music and the sparkle of Christmas lights. It is the notion of commercialism that beats negatively in my heart.

This week, I went to a "mall". It might as well have been another 4 letter word ending in "double L's". Most of the stores offered inferior merchandise with hefty price tags. UGH - no wonder I have lost the magic ... could I have bought into the media's feeding frenzy that Christmas is nothing more than inappropriate gifts inside non-recycable boxes & bags - tied with landfill choking ribbons and bows? I mean - should I really concern myself with what Britney Spears is purchasing this Christmas??

NO! NO! NO! NO!

Dove Knits has blogged in the past about knitting toys! Look at these fun booklets I bought ... just because Miss Dove inspired me so! (Suffice to say - you are only seeing the 'Christmas editions' .....gggg!) These toys will be fun to make and even more fun to give!

In the next few weeks - do support your small shopkeeper, local baker, and fellow artist! Shop at a local winery, artisan cheese shop and butcher!! These people BASK in the glory of happy customers!
Christmas is magic ... It is all about discovering it by candlelight not under the BAAzillion fluorescents at the mall.

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Never let it be said that I always wait for the last minute to do things! Dear nephew wanted Dale of Norway/St. Anton mittens for Christmas ... well, that is what dear nephew will get!

I started these babies on Monday ... and one is almost complete. (Just sans thumb!) YiPpEE!

I love doing fair isle and even though I was using my Norwegian thimble - my tension is tight. (I know you are screaming "gauge" ... I *do* hear you!)
While snug - it fits my hand ... thankfully - the boy is 10.

If I don't get this tension thing under control - I most likely will have to increase needle size when doing fair isle. Not the worse thing in the world - but it is a situation that I must address before attempting a FI sweater. Suffice to say - my next attempt will be swatched!

Guess I must practice more! O DARN!
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Thanksgiving was good for me. Time shared with family & friends is a gift - and who doesn't like gifts? I *know* I do! But, for now, the KRAZYness has ended - time to concentrate on the 'everyday'.

Brother-In-Law has decided on a Dubblemossa! Dear nephew has decided on a pair of Dale of Norway/St. Anton mittens! Think I will be a wee busy over the next couple of weeks, but it is all good ....

There is still plenty of time to knit - and with that in mind - I have a shameless plug for my sock yarn! Spraypaint the Moon is a beauty, don't you think? Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Usually while working on a project - I am already thinking about 'what I want to do next!"
I mean, part of the knitting fun is planning ahead - thinking about new patterns & drooling over new yarns. It is the anticipation of a new journey that gets my juices flowing.
But, here I sit ... the Beaded Mitts are finis and I have no idea what to do next. So - suffice to say, my next posting will be a suprise ... to both of us!
A little info on the Beaded Mitts: the pattern is from Cabin Fever and the yarn used, Dale of Norway Hauk. (I used about a skein & a half). The beads were size 6/0.
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How is your Christmas Shopping going?

While I am a wee bit behind this year, I *did* manage to order my postage stamps for those ever important Christmas cards. I know - some shutter at the mere thought of writing & addressing ... but - Christmas is such a special time of year that I feel it deserves all the attention we can give it! True Celebrations are few & far between. Personally, I like to celebrate small stuff ... but CHRISTMAS? Geez Louise ... It comes but once a year ... It is the only time of year *I* can act like a kid and look normal!

But back to the stamps ... special times deserve special touches. I ordered my stamps from Zazzle! What a great way to support the Humane Society, spread the word about homeless animals - and these stamps are "cheek pinchin'" cute too!

I have been asked about the fair isle mittens I completed last week - I ordered them as a kit from Nordic Fiber Arts. They are the Frostrosen kit in coloways #4686, fuchsia & #424, tomato red. Thanks for asking!

This past weekend - I completed a beaded mitten out of Dale of Norway "Hauk". Love the yarn ... it is really neat as it is made with 'teflon'. Should have some interesting water repellancy!

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

As knitters, spinners, artists - we all know how beneficial dabbling in our chosen art form heals our tender souls. The greyness of daily living can leave one 'blah'.

I have been 'blah' of late. But, boy ... have I been knitting!

I have finished 2 hats for charity ... they will be sent to those in need in South Dakota. I will complete a few more items first ... 2 just isn't enough.

I did complete my second fair isle mitten. While as I was knitting - I purchased a Norwegian thimble. I love the way this baby holds 2 different yarns and keeps the tension nice and even. It worked so well, that mitten #2 was smaller than mitten #1. (It was completed in record time too .... all I can say is "thank goodness for blocking!")

You should get one too .... cheap $$ for a terrific invention!

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

One of the first frosts of the season happened last night. I am thrilled. There is something to be said about seeing tiny, diamond-like sparkles covering the still - green grass. Pure magic! Cooler temps just scream wool!

Spinning and knitting this time of year brings me true JOY! Not only am I creating for the Winter Holidays ... I am also working on warm woolies for those who need them. I think it is wonderful that sheep can keep us warm, don't you?

Since it is now November ...The Knotty Sheep has chosen it's new charity for 2007. (Each year, I choose a charity and donate 5% of my sales - the running total can be found on the left side bar of this BloG.) If you need yarn, fiber and may be a wee bit of art work - I am your woman! Heck, who doesn't need more stash?? This year, my charity of choice is GREYhound Friends! Shop! Shop! Retail therapy is a good thing!

This weekend I hope to finish my second fair isle mitten .... and - Behold! - the beaded scarf is just waiting to become a gift - just waiting to be worn! Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I can't remember the last time I posted on a Saturday. Rain will do that ... I not just talking about wee drops - I am talking something just shy of a monsoon. I am talking windswept leaves - complete with branches attached.

It is one of those days to stay in snuggled next to a loved one, sipping coffee, hot cocoa or some libation watching college ball on the tube. That is of course, unless said windswept branches pull down your power lines.

I like days like this. It forces me to slow down and to catch up. To organize and get familar with the things that I have. Sometimes, 'Life' infiltrates to the point of madness and it becomes a challenge just to climb over the clutter. Some seek to tame Everest ... I seek to implode the clutter pile.

The studio is getting an over haul ... it is long over due. I am feeling like the FlyLady on steriods. Wool, yarn, patterns, pastels, acrylics, canvas and various papers - all are in a flux. Things will get better - the sun will come out tomorrow!

Days like today also afford me the opportunity to catch up on some serious BloG reading. Alicia has written a great piece for 10/27! I urge you to read it - it is very eloquent and thought provoking.

But, back to the over haul ... here are the few tidbits of knittedness that were finally completed. The beaded scarf is soaking - so that will be posted later in the week. It is the Dubblemossa & one fair isle mitten. (Not to worry - I casted on for its mate last night!) Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

I am hopeful by this week's end you will see some knitting photos!

The beaded scarf needs blocking, the Dubblemossa still needs pom-poming and a fair isle mitten needs 12 more rows and a thumb.

Today, I want to inventory my Dale of Norway patterns and do a little fiber carding. Of course, I also need to catch up on my BloG reading .... did you know that Donna Druchunas is starting a blog book tour to talk about
Artic Lace?

It starts Here!. WhEEEE!
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No knitting /spinning content today. ( I will admit to finishing the beaded scarf and starting a pair of nordic mittens. Photos of the scarf as soon as I block it. )

Today - I feel the need to voice a few opinions.

As we approach winter, here in New England - I ask these questions for your kind considerations: "Are you doing everything you can to conserve heat/energy"? "Are you concerning yourself with the environment and taking steps to reduce global warming"? "Are you helping to reduce your need for petroleum based products"? (To which, it seems, everthing is petro based!)

There are so many things that are out of our control on a day to day basis. We do forget, in the calamity of life, that we can make a difference. Be a voice. Be an example.

Our knitting/spinning can take us far to turn down our thermostats! Don't turn the heat up - turn it down and pull out a sweater! Make some funky colored wool sox for your family. Send a pair to a local shelter, VA hospital or nursing home! (Of course, there is Dulaan & CIC too!)

One of the issues I am concerned about is an LNG facility that *just might* be built ON SHORE in Fall River MA. They would need to dredge a bay, and the ships carrying the LNG would only have a 5ft clearance under the Mt. Hope Bridge, during a 'proper' low tide. Seems strange that those who we have placed in power would even begin to think that this is Ok. Terror aside - this is just plain stupid.

Thank you Congressman Barney Frank for being a strong voice. But, then again, even collective whispers can be heard.

Be an activist! Life is to short NOT to care. Comments, please!

Have you climbed aboard The Dulaan, 10k or Bust Knitting Train yet??

If not - you must! The requirement? ... Knit 5 items and send them along to their proper destination by July 1, 2007. (Info may be found HERE. EZ PZ, right??

Personally, I just love to knit! But, I can only keep so much and the DH is just not interested. (Hey, can mittens & sweaters really compete with power tools?) Most items for my Christmas basket will be small as there is just enough distance between family members that proper sizing is a challenge.

So ... knit a bit for Dulaan!

I *just* received some additonal colorways of Peace Fleece! (Shameless Plug! Shameless Plug!) Wouldn't these colors (Volgasippi Blue, Latvian Lavender & Mir-Atlantis Periwinkle) make a wonderful fair isle project??

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It finally happened! I am learning to appreciate the small stuff. A life made of simple things and simple times is a life that has moments that one can remember.

This weekend, my DH gave me flowers! Not a bazillion roses nor a fancy FTD delivery. Just a fist full of hand picked mums slouching effortlessly in a Nortel coffee mug on my knitting table.

Beautiful? ... totally. Unexpected? ... delightfully so! It was a very sparkly and twinkly moment.

Suffice to say, Diesel wasn't motivated by the sparkles & twinkles! But, simplicity is about moments ... especially if that moment is reflected in a dream.

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Is it really October?? Is Columbus Day this coming Monday? Holey Moley!!

The problem with taking a vacation the last week of any month - is that it totally distorts time. You leave your house one month - return the next. While I am just tickled that it is now FALL - I can not believe how quickly the month of September passed.

Can Christmas really be just around the corner?? YiKes!!

The Dubblemossa is finis. It is sans tassle so I will post a photo when I tie that baby on. I found it any interesting process and will probably make another in the future. I doubt that I would use the unspun Icelandic though ... methinks my tension is just to tight for fiber which is 'unspun'.

I did manage to complete another Bea Ellis hat for my Christmas Basket. I just love knitting these - and if you are looking to try fair isle - Bea's Originals are very well written for the beginner. This hat came out larger than the first one I did. Why?? Well, I didn't carry one of the colors in my left hand. I just used my right and while more time consuming - the finished product is more relaxed. Note to self: knit fair isle right handed only.

Also - you have got to love a good knitting "score"! Dale of Norway "Nagano" anyone?? YiPpEE!!!

Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!