Vacation is Over ....

It is true that all good things must come to an end!

Vacation is over and there is no other looming on the horizon. It is all good though ... I have already returned to work and fell right back into the grind. Actually, it feels like I never left!

I managed to hit my 4th repeat in the German Shawl. (YAY!)

I managed to spin over a POUND of wool! (YAY!)

I managed to get a photo of Diesel enjoying a twilight sky with the sea below him! (YAY!)

And I managed to relax & regroup. (Double YAY!)

But the TRIPLE YAY is this: with all the nuttiness in the world, stuff means absolutely nothing. My week was great because I got to spend time with my husband, my dog & my parrot. We didn't do anything out of the ordinary - we just did something special: we were able to spend time together and just BE!

A Revelation

I am not living up to what I *can* do.

This is just a revelation that I made this week. I have known it for a while - but things like this are always more honest when shouted out to the World!

So - in that regard - I am taking a few days to actually do something! I hope it means that I will be creating ... and learning. I hope it means that I will walk for miles with my dog and appreciate my husband with zest. I hope it means that I will judge less and help more - whatever or whoever needs it. I hope it means that I will learn to accept me and find me - all at the same time! Oh ... and I hope to have photos too!

I think being totally absorbed in the dailies - I have forgotten how to BE. (So much for my time management skills!) I am just SO excited for these next few days - I truly think my head is going to BURST (in a good way though!!)

Funny that this quote just found its way to me:
"Plant seeds of expectation in your mind; cultivate thoughts that anticipate achievement. Believe in yourself as being capable of overcoming all obstacles and weaknesses." - Norman Vincent Peale. Hmmmm ......

So ... I will leave you with my latest creation (yep - I believe in myself ...ggg!) Blue States - it *is* almost election time!!

Can you Click for a pup in need??

I have been so incredibly busy of late ... that now, my body rebels with it's first FALL cold.

We are just 24 hours into this new season ... and well, I suppose I let myself get run down. Mom was right, I can't burn the candle at both ends. Sigh ....

One of the things that keeps me going is working for causes I believe in. There are many ....
That being said, today, I want to highlight one that is EZ PZ to help. No money is involved ... and *that* is SO cool in this trying economic time. This local dog rescue has the opportunity to win money from Care2. I do mean a LOT of money .... 10k to be exact.

The German Shepherd Rescue of New England helps this large breed of dog find their forever homes by carefully placing them with wonderfully matched families. Large breeds have a tendency to be over looked - it is fabulous that this rescue assists these beautiful animals!! Check out the beautiful dogs ... you will want one!

Money is tight for all of us at this time ... please help this rescue win funds so their wonderful work may continue! Please click today!

Ready to SAVE 20%??

I mean really, with the stock market falling, the housing crisis and gas/oil prices SKY high ... saving 20% on anything seems like a Gift.

And when one celebrates a Birthday ... Gifts are abundant!!

Etsy For Animals (EFA) is celebrating it's FIRST Birthday. 180 members are participating in this glorious Festival of Savings ... and The Knotty Sheep is a typical party animal!!

Just use the coupon code " SHEEP " in the notes to seller section when you purchase any of my yarns and fibers! BAA-DA-Bing ... you will save 20%!! *You may request a revised invoice OR I will refund the difference bing-o bang-o!*

But...the cool thing is ... it doesn't stop there!! You may use that coupon code, "SHEEP" at any of the 180 shops!! Those Holidays are coming .... and take a peeky at all the FUN shops YOU can save at!!

(Yep ... I humbly request you use "SHEEP" as I would love to win a prize!! He/she who has the most coupon redemptions wins!!) So ... Be Knotty and Be Shoppie!

Yarn Collections

This weekend was a retreat of sorts. It was just me & my dog and a tropical storm called 'Hanna'.

I was expecting the worse ... and I was pleasantly surprised to find Miss Hanna a shy visitor. Rumor had it that she was to be a blow-hard and unfriendly - kind of like the mean girl on the play ground.

Instead - she announced her presence like a Hollywood has been and quickly retreated into the 'wings' once she had her say! "Au revoir, Mademoiselle Hanna!"

I was lucky. There are so many people in the Carribean, Mexico, Cuba, parts of the US and more - that have felt the force of Nature. She comes in different forms: hurricanes, tornadoes, wild fires, earthquakes, blizzards ... there can be such devastation & loss.

Pray for those in harms way & and do be grateful for the opportunity to offer those prayers to the Heavens while Mother Nature does her thing. Faith & Hope are nice ladies to keep you company. Charity is too. And I must say, I am so proud that when there is a need ... most people truly deliver.

Knitting for charity has been an important part of my life. It allows me to do what I love & to allow those who are struggling to receive some warmth and the notion that someone, somewhere cares for them deeply.

I recently began spinning for charity too. And while I wish I could give buckets of yarn away ... that will have to wait for sometime in the future. (O Powerball, where are you?) For now, I am offering "Yarn Collections" at a truly reduced price!

"Turning Tides Collection" is 3 skeins of handspun "Maude" ... a columbia, romney, coopworth sheepie. 7 ounces of yarn for $24.44. (Don't ask about the weird amount, I thought it might be FUN!) Seriously ... I would charge pretty much double that if I hadn't been bitten by the charity knitting bug!
Like Autumn colors ... do check out the Fall Collection too!

Here in the US - summer storms are still around and winter storms are on the horizon - as I said: Faith, Hope & Charity are nice ladies to have around. Love is too - let's not forget to invite her.

VOTE for ME!! VOTE for ME!!

It is September - WOW!! I am having a hard time believing it! This month will morph quickly to the next ... Halloween will be here ... then it will be time to VOTE for a US president ... then it is the Winter Holidays ......

WHOA Nellie!!! Did I mention voting???

I did - AND I need yours!!

I know I ask a lot of you in BloG Land ... shop my store ... sign petitions ... knit for those in need ... etc, etc. MoM always told me "I never hurts to ask" & recently I read someone that "Can't never did" (love this!) ... so, today I ask for your vote!

Being an Etsy member is grand - I have met many wonderful artists & animal lovers who are part of Etsy for Animals (EFA.) 28 of us are participating in a challenge to celebrate EFA's birthday. The challenge is - the item with the most votes wins!! AND I would love to win that $50 donation to my favorite animal charity!

My handpainted, "EFA Birthday Celebration" canvas tote is OOAK!

Visit this LINK! This Etsy forum thread will connect to to the voting booth - I am listed as ' theknottysheep ' ! If you do vote - please go back to the thread & leave an "I voted " comment - then you will be eligible to win a prize too. You do not have to purchase anything (unless you find said bag, and/or my yarns & fiber totally irresistible!)

Once again - I know I ask much of you ... I will try NOT to ask for anything else ... for at least 24 hours! Please vote ... this election runs thru 9/4!

5 POUNDS gone!

I did it! I did it!

Lost 5 pounds! Nope, don't mean weight ... I mean stash! Remember when I said I couldn't treat myself to any new yarn-yummies or patterns until I unloaded 5 pounds of stash? ... AND this could mean both from knitting yarn odds & ends as well as spinning some of the flock of fleeces I have snoozing in the studio ... just waiting to become something grand??

Well --- 5 pounds has been USED! Most of it went to charity knitting ... some ended up in skeins ... but either way - it does a body good to help others as well as to destash. Like losing any 5 pounds - I feel like I can move a lot easier - more lightly.

My last spinning endeavor went to my new "Yarn Collections". Geared towards the charity knitter who wants to dabble in handspun without emptying the piggy bank! Check out Fall.

AND - I did start a lace project too. This yarn came to me via another project - but, that project will come in time as they all do. After a slow start ... I am loving the German Shawl.

As the US winds down to Labor Day ... I just can't wait to just spin & knit in more comfortable temps!

Nothing new in my world - You??

This week has flown by - I am not sure where it went. That troubles me as I am truly trying to savor the moments ... but this week, I don't remember them.

My mind is fuzzy with a cross of a 'summer cold' & allergies. DH is feeling the same way - so we are stumbling thru the daily jobs, chores & animal care. I am happy to report that at least I did some dyEing & I completed a pair of sox for Macuwita sni!

This weekend - it is supposed to be HOT once again. I am in the process of starting a shawl .... only if my fuzzy brain can figure out what ' 2 left twist (knit the last stitch from behind, leaving it on the left needle, knit the second to the last stitch & drop both stitches off the left needle' means. I am thinking that the last stitch should be knit thru the back loop?? Anyone??

Sock Yarn Diet

I started & frogged the lace shawl I was working on. Guess after all my 'worstedness' - my fingers just didn't want to play with lace weight at this time. Of course, watching the Olympics out of the corner of my eye didn't help. Oh well ....!

Stasia recently sent me a link to Sparkpeople (clickable link on my left side bar.) What a FABulous FREE resource of all things diet & exercise! I have already lost 2 pounds ... and hope to lose MUCH more!!

Of course, this means I share my excitement! For me ... a "Sock Yarn Diet!" Until further notice all my Painted Toes Sock Yarns are 10% off. Hurry ... these yarns are part of my "Spots & Shades" study - and, as always, they are one of a kind!! AND this sale can end at ANY time!!

So... do shop - and do join Sparkspeople .... it is a great day to treat yourself to OOAK yarn and to grab hold of your Life! WhEEEEE!

Shelter Dogs are the Best!!

Shelter Dogs are the Best!!

But, what they go through, the stress they deal with, is truly h*ll on Earth.

My mind can not grasp the fact that someone would 'throw their dog away' - because it has become a chore, or an inconvenience. It gets back to what I said in my last post ... moments are either a chore or a gift, it is all a matter of perspective & attitude.

I recently purchased 2 books: "Shelter Dogs by Traer Scott & " One at a Time: A Week in an American Animal Shelter" by Marilee Geyer. Not for the faint of heart or those that believe that their disposable pet will find a forever happy home. Geyer's book notes that only 20% of those who enter the shelter system get adopted. Somehow, I feel *I* have a better chance of winning "Powerball" than most animals do making it out of a shelter alive.

As I continue my journey on this Planet ... I am beginning to realize that shelter dogs are playing an increasing importance in my Life. At this time ... only the Universe knows why. I know my heart will be broken, I know tears will be shed ... but, maybe, just maybe a few dogs & cats & all the others who make their home at a shelter ... will find their forever families soon if I work harder.

Which leads me to how YOU can help!
** Don't purchase a cat or dog from a pet store. Puppy Mill Awareness Day is September 20th. Yes ... those little kittens & puppies are adorable in those windows ... but, stop & think of their mothers ... who have to produce litter after litter and live in conditions that are just plain wretched.

**Volunteer at a shelter ... socialization is key to the animals ... see what is on their 'wish lists' ... is it food, $$ for medical treatment, toys, blankets??

**Shop at establishments that give back. There are plenty of artists on Etsy that do ... search EFA (Etsy for animals) in the 'tags' OR go directly to the EFA Shop! Not only are the artists fabulous - they also work long & hard to fight for & protect animals around the world!

EFA will be celebrating their first SHOP Birthday in September!! Do stay tuned - it is going to be a blast!

Jump start my week

This is a bold statement: "I have decided to change my life."

The craziness still exists but instead of fighting it - I accept it. Yes - you heard me right, I accept it.

There is no 'slow down' in the near future, there is no 'extra hours' in which to 'fit in' something/anything. There is only 24 hours in a day (or 1440 minutes or 86400 seconds.) Each hour, minute, second - can be a gift or a chore - it is all a matter of perception & attitude.

My attitude embraces the craziness ... I just hope my body can keep up!!

I started the Faceted Gem lace shawl this weekend. I haven't used such skinny yarn in such a long while ... should be an interesting journey!!

I also carded Clouds in the Tides - super lustrous spinning batts blended from dorset wool & mohair!!
Seriously ... these babies are pure luxury at an affordable price! Woo-WHOO!

So - while my world keeps spinning along .... I accept the pace at which it twirls ... being Dizzy is going to be fun!!

Accept your day today ... with all its craziness. I just *know* there is a lesson to be learned for each of us!

Go Kiva!!

OK ... can I introduce you to Rafoat Kosimova??

She need you help too - if her loan goal isn't reached ...... shattered dreams.

Kiva!

I was BloG surfing yesterday. You know how it goes - you stop here - click on there - jump over to this & that and before you know it: vous êtes ici! - ( you are HERE!) or as I like to call it: Kiva!

I became fascinated - almost obsessed with the stories I read. Just when you think this world has no light left ... the SUN shines!

Sadbargul Faizova caught my eye! I hope she catches your eye too as the time to raise her loan amount is ending shortly. For $25, which is some nice wine & even nicer yarn .... YOU can help her make her family's life a little bit better!

Motto for the day: Kindness in Giving creates Love - Lao Tzu

Back to Painting - support EFA!!

As you know -- I am trying to get over my 'fear' of painting again. I am unsure what made me feel so insecure about my art ... but, slowly - those fears are subsiding. It is a constant battle.

With Life being what it is - it is hard to cram everything into an already jam-packed day - let alone make time for something that you fear. That is why if you surround yourself with like minded (creative) people, they help to stretch your imagination and break down those walls that you have built around yourself.

Take Etsy for Animals or EFA for short! They are a group of artists on Etsy who donate time, $$ or their artistry to help animals. I am honored to be a part of this wonderful team!!

Which gets me back to my point on fear, painting & surrounding yourself with like minded (creative) people. Our August challenge became "C is for ..." . Cows, cats, crows, cougars came to mind ... but I was thinking more in terms of collard greens, cabbage, carrots, cantaloupe & cherries. Me, being the little environmentalist that I am, saw those images on a canvas grocery bag .... after a deep breath, VOILA ... I came up with this hand painted OOAK bag! - and pardon while I pull on your heartstrings a bit - BUT 5% of all purchases goes to Pittie Love Rescue. They help one of *the most abused* dog breeds of all times.
Comments?? I would love to hear what you think of this functional piece of art!

Weekend Goal ... Finis!

On weekends - I try to set a goal for my Macuwita sni knitting. I find I am pushing myself to complete 'just one more row' when normally - I would have laid the project down for the evening.

This weekend, my goal was 2 pair of mittens as well as a hand spun skein.

I am proud to say ... I completed my goal!! YAY!!

If obtaining a goal is motivation to do even more ... so are these pups currently in foster care thru the German Shepherd Rescue of New England. Yes ... my heart belongs to my Diesel and the pitbulls, but, DH has always had a soft spot for GSDs. Guess who is becoming a GSRNE member?

So - just when I didn't think I could survive another day of 90 degree F weather ... I plopped some wool into the dye pot for the 4th skein in my Study of Shades & Spots! This salmon beauty is currently For SALE!

Just when you think you can't knit one more row OR stand at the dye pot one more minute - it is nice to know that God created such wonderful things as motivation & inspiration to give you the kick in the bloomers that is needed to make the world a better place.

Christmas in July - again!

This is another posting about Christmas In July! Can you stand it??

While I sit here and sweat ... today is nothing compared to what they are saying the weekend will bring ... high 90's with tons o'humidity.

Ok ... I am a whimp. I can't tolerate the heat ... and I know there are those of you who are snickering as you read. I digress, you won't find me complaining about 10 below ZERO! come December/January. THAT is what wool is for.

December & chilly temps mean Christmas to me! Yesterday, Ravelry asked if they could use my Peace Fleece Christmas Stocking photo. I said "Sure!" I mean, what an honor!!


Here she is - in all her knitted glory! Check out the snow in the photo!! WhEEEEEEE! Seriously, who needs a mojito when seeing SNOW??

In honor of the 'at-a-girl' on Ravelry ... I am offering my only 2
Peace Fleece Christmas Stocking kits
at a 15% off savings - NOW until 7/23 ... or until they sell out.

Yep - those Winter Holidays will be here before you know it .... start one of these beauties now ... (especially if you have AC!)
WhEEEEEEEE!

I thought July was a quiet time??

I thought July was a quiet time.

I thought that with the heat came a simple quietness - a quietness that may be broken by a child's laughter, splashes in the sea, ice cubes in lemonade or, for those that have it ... the hum of the air conditioner.

HA! I say!

I am so busy, my head hurts! I am so busy, I barely breathe! There are a number of factors - and truth be told, I thought that I had them under control. Households, husband, pets, jobs, gardens and family challenges make the world one non-stop party.

So much for being carefree.

But, Life still goes on and while I don't have a spare moment to think ... thank goodness for the internet! I am filled with gratitude that there is a world and friends out there who are just a click away! HOOray for Cyber-space!

Knitting is still part of my busy Life. My parents, while facing challenges of their own in recent years are still going as fast as they can with the health issues they bare. This past weekend, they came for a visit. MoM was thrilled to shove 11 pair of mittens for Macuwita ani into my arms. How VERY cool!

These mittens, when entered into the database last night - pushed us over the 100 pair mark. Thanks MoM!!

Today ... we hit 110 with these babies:

It just blows me away to know that so many on the Cheyenne River Sioux reservation will have wonderful woolie warmth this winter! Thank you everyone .... please keep up the great work.

I will try really hard to "Be Calm and Carry On" ... (thanks Britain for that wonderful slogan!) - I still have much to do and if I can get as much done as my 'mom who is up in years can' ... Life will be refreshing and yet relaxing!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please! http://www.theknottysheep.com

Christmas in July!

Ho! HO! HO! It is CHRISTMAS in July!!

Did I actually type the "C" word??

Why "YES" I did!! AND for a very good reason too!

I am a member of a street team on Etsy called "BBEST". We have quite an eclectic group of artists - who dabble in so many different mediums that I can't even begin to list them all here! We are global too - which adds some spice and constant conversations 24/7.

Suffice to say ... some of us are participating in a "Christmas In July" sale which has begun - and will run until July 21.

I will be adding sale items constantly, so please check back DAILY! Since it is a perfect time to start those Winter Holiday projects - please peek at my wonderful discounted handspun & spinning fibers HERE!

Looking for my latest addition?? Check no further! My second skein in my "Shades & Dots Study" is NOW available for PURCHASE!

As always .... 5% of all my sales is donated to Pittie Love Rescue. With their permission, I am able to use their doggie photos! This is "Weezy" - he is looking for his forever home ... isn't he THE most cutest pup ever?? With each purchase - you are helping pups just like him!!

You can check out our participating members listed HERE!

Shop early - shop often!! Today, help not only pups in need - but support independent artisits!! WhEEEEEE!

Spots. Shades and Mittens

Well, not only have I been dyEing ... I have completed my self imposed Mitten Marathon!!

First, the dyEing!
The Knotty Sheep has begun a new series of dyEing called "A Study of Spots & Shades!" I have been having fun playing in the dYe pots ... WhEEEEEEE!!!! The first color to be released ... TEAL! I think that this is such a wonderful color!!

Second, the Mitten Marathon! I was able to complete 3 pair of mittens for the Cheyenne River Sioux. It would have been 4 pair, but the stripey ones were frogged when I realized that I didn't have enough of the same yarn to 'stripe'. Down to the thumbs they were 'ripped' - sigh! I am quite partial to their cheeriness - they do make me smile!

I think I will start another pair tonight. I am still using up stash like a Wild Woman! Stash-using is a good thing ... I am kind of psyched that I have just a wee bit more room in the studio than I did a few weeks ago!

YiPpEE!

My Mitten Marathon

Part of what I love about the 4th of July is it a celebration of family, friends, country, and Life.

I can forgo the parades - way to crowded! AND the fireworks - way to loud! (... I always wonder what the wildlife think when the night sky turns radiant and the sonic booms reign!)

My long weekend doesn't truly begin until Thursday evening - but I am choosing to begin my Mitten Marathon tonight! Yep - I am just SO curious to see how many pair of mittens I can complete for Macuwita sni!

I have put this aside - without its mate even being casted on:

Hopefully, I will turn this from a nondescript collection of stash into a mountain of mittens!

So - as of today, I am lying low for a while. A good LONG while! I have much to do, much to contemplate and family matters to address! While I will be BloGGing ... and creating ... I will also be hibernating! HaPpY 4th everyone ... and may you be able to celebrate your family, friends, country, and Life - wherever you may be!! May your nondescript stash turn into your very own mountain of mittens too! WhEEEEE!

How could you shoot a dog??

Short & sweet .... How could anyone shoot a dog that is NOT attacking - NOT maiming - NOT - mauling anything or anyone?

It this day and age - it happens. My heart would like to believe that stuff like this is isolated - my brain tells me 'not so much'.

Gage was a seemingly happy, carefree, well trained & socialized pit bull . Yes ... he slept with his family & YORKIE dog siblings. He wore Santa Hats & Christmas bows in his hair. He danced in splashes of water and snoozed in afternoon sunbeams. Ah ... such is a dog's life.

Then, why, may I ask will I be wearing this shirt in honor of his memory this coming Saturday??

Well, seems like Gage's neighbor didn't like him. Didn't care about his Christmas bows & Santa hats. Didn't care about his social skills or dances with the waves. He saw a FREAKIN' pit bull and decided it was time for target practice. SHAME ON YOU, Mr. Neighbor!

Please consider a donation to Gage's family as they are battling legal fees to get said neighbor's unfriendly, ok, murderous Gluteus maximus into prison where it belongs! Go HERE - to view how a pit bull is also a son & a brother!

Diesel would appreciate it. Yes - he has donned his share of silly clothes and silly poses ... but, as a dog who is half rottie, can I show you how much he hates thunder??

God Bless Sweet Gage & his family.

to knit or draw?

Some long time readers of this BloG remember that I am an 'artist' - at least I think of myself as one. Pastels are my medium when I long to put images on paper. I like to think that I am half way decent in this foray too. Like knitting & spinning - there is always room for improvement, and the more time one makes to develop a talent, the more talent they seem to have.

There in lies my problem: putting the time into drawing once again. I really, really, really want to draw - but, I am nervous. O Heck ... I am actually afraid. There, I said it ... I admitted to the world that I am afraid to draw! What if I lost *it*? What if I can't translate what I *see* on to paper??

This weekend, as I attempt to complete a pair of sox for Macuwita sni ... I will also attempt to draw.

I found this sketch from 18 YEARS ago:

This pastel was created about 5 years ago:

Sadly - there hasn't been to many paintings since .... sigh!

So, I ask you to send me 'creating vibes & calming energies!' This weekend, I wish to painting something ... wish me luck!

Socks

I haven't knit socks in a while - but I have had a skein of "Lakeberry" that I had purchased from Ray at Knitvity a while back.

I casted on Saturday ... and the with Celtics playing a LATE game once again tonight, I just might finish the first sock. I would be SO happy with that. After all, SSS (second sock syndrome) doesn't happen to me all that often, but I want to make sure it doesn't happen here since I am in the throes of using STASH. Yep - only 57 ounces to go .... YiPpEE!

Well, here is what I have completed thus far .... and "GO Boston Celtics!"

One mitten note: some readers have requested the pattern for the mittens I displayed in a previous BloG post .... Well, HERE it is!! Have fun .... WhEEEEE!

A Mitten Weekend

I am having a difficult digesting that we are in the middle of our first heat wave. YiKes!

My garden lettuce is wilting ... Diesel is wilting ... and I am just plain melting. Seriously, it is ONLY the second week in June and temps in the mid 90's makes this New Englander quite crabby! Sigh ....

I did manage to complete 3 pair of mittens for Macuwita sni over the weekend. Yes - it was quite warm to knit ... but mittens, like sox, are EZ PZ in the heat. They are small - they barely touch you - and while you are sweating off water weight - you know come December they will being warming the hands of someone who hands just might have been terribly cold last winter.

So ... here they are!! The trio was made from stash yarns. A truly nice way to reduce my mountain of yarn! WhEEEEEE!

Diesel Spins

Once again, busy, busy, busy!

It is all good and it makes me reflect on my time management skills or lack thereof. I feel like I haven't been that productive - although to look around the house & garden - I have accomplished a bit.

As always, there is still much to do.

I recently put a notion into my head that says: "You can't purchase any yarn or wool until you have knit and/or spun 5 pounds of stash!" Yep - 5 POUNDS!

This is going to prove difficult as there as SO much that I want. Yep - want - I don't need a thing. Sigh .....

So, by my calculations 80 oz of stash must leave the studio in some way, shape or form. Currently, I have 70.6 ounces left to go .... O Diesel ... can you help me??
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

The Killing of Pits

I tend not to make my BloG a diatribe about politics, religion or other fun things that cause people to run for cover. There is enough of that on the local news and discussions abound at water coolers during business hours and at local 'watering holes' after hours. Besides ... I haven't met to many individuals interested in my opinions on 'hot topic' issues.

But, today, I digress. I don't live in Ohio and due to impending legislation - I am glad that I don't. Ohio Representative Tyrone Yates has amended House Bill 568 , which, if passed, will prohibit the ownership of pit bulls in the State of Ohio. Ok - without mincing words here, not only will pitbulls be banned, but ALL pitbulls and those deemed 'pitbull mixes' will be euthanized. That is right - Killed. Murdered. It doesn't matter that these family dogs have done nothing - have NOT bitten or maimed or mauled ... OK - they *may* have licked someone or snuggled up to their children - but - Mr. Yates has decided that the good citizens of Ohio and AMERICANS at large - can not choose their pets.
(A copy of said amendment will be found HERE - please scroll down to the bottom to see the latest rewording - it is listed as section 955.111!)

Dangerous dogs are products of dangerous owners. Maybe Mr. Yates should use the criminal justice system to prosecute the owners instead of murdering dogs who have done nothing - except to wear the clothes of a breed he dislikes.

I recently sent Pittie Love Rescue the donation from The Knotty Sheep. I received a beautiful thank you - with an adorable little girl in between her two good friends. What do you think Mr. Yates?? How would you explain your legislation to her? How would you explain killing her friends?

I humbly ask you to write/call/email:

John Husted, Speaker of the House
77 S. High St
14th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215-6111
Telephone: (614) 644-6008
Fax : (614) 719-3591
Email Address: district37@ohr.state.oh.us

This type of legislation smacks of everything we, in the US, don't stand for - but we do stand UP to!! Mr. Yates ... punish the deed NOT the breed.

Wool - 24/7

Last night I couldn't decide between spinning & knitting. I wanted something easy - and new fleeces had arrived, fresh from the processor. I thought I might just take a turn at both - but opted to cast on a simple watch cap for Macuwita sni. I seem to have a growing stash of left over yarn balls ... this cap will be made from the same yarn as the English Rib combined with handspun singles. (Photo provided as soon as it is completed.)

Sometimes it is a difficult choice to decide between spinning & knitting - I can't be the only 'out there' who feels that way either .... so ....

Did you happen to see my skein entitled Sunset Sailor? I donated this handspun wonder to Etsy for Animals! I love the colors flowing thorough this yarn .... don't you?

OR - maybe you noticed Just Blushed. These spinnable batts are the palest of pinks! Totally girlie & wonderful. Don't they just make you want to spin - like right NOW?

Ah - choices! Sometimes it is just to much fun NOT to choose and to play with everything that we want to play with! WhEEEEEE!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

Short & sweet - the Herringbones are Done!

It took a total of 9 days to complete these babies .... One solid week for the first mitten - 2 days for the second. Don't you just love it when a plan comes together??

These were a nice, fun knit and Peace Fleece will provide a myriad of options for some colorful mittens!!

These "Herringbones" will be donated to Macuwita sni! "Mitten Quest 2008-2009" is going strong. To date, 21 pair of mittens completed - 230 to beat our goal! Feel free to join us ... we want to warm both hands & hearts!

Tired - but still going

It never ceases to amaze me that just when you are *this close* to throwing your hands up in the air and screaming "No more!" - you dig a little deeper into your soul and find that you had what it takes all along.

That is what is so cool about each & every day - it is all about choices. To love - or not. To be patient - or not. To have Faith - or not. To grow - or not.

It seems that everyone is moving a mile a minute. Not good. Not good for the health of each of us nor is it good for the Planet.
Each minute is valuable - this I know. But, it is how we spend those minutes that really count.

There are times when I don't want to spin, or dye or card wool. What keeps me going are dogs. All dogs / every dog that is still in search of their forever homes. Shelter dogs, in particular, have my heart - they always will. My motivation is that just when I feel like throwing my hands up in the air - I think of all those pups who haven't know love. They deserve good homes - it has become my mission to help them.

There are also times when I don't want to knit. What keeps me going here is those that are cold. Those that may not have access to a warm jacket or a home. Those that live without hats, or scarves or mittens - it doesn't seem right that my stash might just actually outfit a small town. So I knit to share - I knit to let someone I don't know - know that someone cares for them. I want them to be warm - both inside & out.

Check out my first completed, unblocked, Herringbone Mitten!

I am making them out of Baghdad Blue & Chickie Masla Peace Fleece. Pretty, yes?? They will be part of Macuwita sni's Mitten Quest.

My wish for you today is to find what motivates you. Find what makes your heart GLOW and just when you feel like throwing your hands UP in the air - do so!!
And clap to the Heavens knowing that you have the will & motivation to carry on!

The English Rib is DONE!

For such an easy sweater - this baby has taken me months. TWO months almost to the day.
I got bored ... and I will admit that once that happened, I became lazy too. Unfortunately, I am not the type that can have several projects OTNs at the same time. Little by little, row by row - the English Rib is now completed!

So, here I sit as 'proud mama' of this sweater which will be sent off to South Dakota for Macuwita sni. It most likely will fit a 6 year old child, please, take a peek:

As there is no rest for the weary - a pair of Herringbone Mittens has also been started for Macuwita sni's "Mitten Quest 2008-2009". Since this photo was taken, I am only 15 rows shy of completing the first mitten. Got to love small projects!! WhEEEE!

What are you creating??

Knit Mitts!

It is hard to believe that in these first 2 weeks of May, I am thinking about mittens! 250 pair of mittens to be exact!

Macuwita sni members recently voted upon this goal to help warm the Cheyenne River Sioux in South Dakota this UPcoming winter. You KNOW heating a home will be costly in the colder months - so, we might as well throw caution to the wind and start knitting those mittens NOW! Do join us for "Mitten Quest 2008 - 2009 ... we love welcoming new members!

Of course, even though I have been knitting like a fiend to finish up The English Rib Sweater - I also had time to play in the dye pots. Look at these Scrumble Skeins. Perfect for stripes - don't you think?

Time to go peruse the mitten patterns ..... WhEEEEE!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

A FABulous Day for Pit bulls!

Faitful readers of this BloG know how much I love dogs!

Seriously, my life would not be as JOYful if these 'in the moment' creatures suddenly vanished. I LOVE all dogs! And while it has been 8 months since my senior girl passed - my rottie x, Diesel, still remains an only dog child. There is no replacing my Motu - and I think Diesel is just fine with that.

Over the last several years - I have donated a portion of my sales to different animal organizations. Not only do I feel compelled to give something back - it is totally good Karma!! It does a body good to get (as I like to describe it) ... "One's head out of one's bum." Yep - think of the visual & you will know what I mean!

Why is this a FABulous Day for Pit bulls? The Knotty Sheep has just surpassed the $100 donation mark!! I am tickled - tickled - tickled!! So - to the folks at
Pittie Love Rescue a check will be coming your way this week!

Thank EWE all SO much .... now, being the goal oriented person that I am - I am seeing the next $100 coming VERY soon ..... Be ShoppiEE!!

Diesel waits ....

So today is April 25. By my calculations - April 27 is in 2 days ... gulp. The 27th is the day that I proclaimed that the English Rib sweater would be completed for Macuwita sni. Alas ... it won't be happening.

Try as I might to work a few rows daily - it has been a struggle. I am thinking that it isn't so much my busy schedule - but more the fact that I don't like ribbing for an eternity. I am happy to report that the front is almost done. That just leaves 2 sleeves, the neck, and the seams. NOT *so* much to complete ... but I have mittens & sox & hats & Lopi sweaters to knit!! Never mind all the spinning that I must do.

Just about a month left to my silly schedule ... I do feel the end is in sight! Until then, Diesel waits .....

Of Patti Larkin & Earth Day

This weekend, DH & I were lucky enough to see Patty Larkin in concert with friends who are FUN! A picnic was packed into a wicker basket - libations were stored in a cooler ... and we were treated to great music with terrific company.

I have been SO busy that I haven't taken to much time to relax. Saturday night reminded me that inspirations happen all the time - that sometimes we need to forgo the mundane and break free from the chains that sterilize our minds. The creative process doesn't lend itself to crabby people & daily chores that become robotic. The MUSE needs sparks ... it needs laughter .... it needs beautiful music ... it needs FUN (and a good guitar rift with a respectable sauvignon blanc doesn't hurt either!)

The organic nature of Patty's music reminded me that Earth Day is right around the corner. I decided to be inspired .... here is my interpretation of Earth Day 2008!

I hope you celebrate the Earth - everyday!

A time for Sleepy Clouds

I wastrying to be realistic when I said I wanted to finish the "English Rib" sweater for Macuwita sni by
April 17th. Truth be told, it isn't going to happen. It is possible if I knit day in & day out for the next 6 days - how realistic is that??

I will work my fingers off, instead, to get it completed by the 27th. That is a more appropriate time span. Spring is popping out at the reservation, luckily, the coldest of days are behind the Cheyenne River Sioux for a bit!

On the business front .... The Knotty Sheep has yarns in a boutique right on the corner of Newbury Street, Boston! How very, very cool!! Isn't OAK just SO incredibly Bostonian?? If you are in the area ... do stop by and pick up some of my one-of-a-kind handspun goodies and tell Keara (the owner!) - I said "hi"!

I did manage to squeeze in a little time at the carder while listening to the Boston Red Sox on the radio. Sleepy Clouds has fabulous dollups of cotton .... one terrific textured yarn will be created once these babies are spun!!

Pretty, yes??

Well, must go 'ball up' some Peace Fleece for the 'English Rib' - yep - the 27th will be here before I know it! WhEEEEE!
Remember .... Inspire Art! Create Art! Buy Art! Be ART!! Comments, please!

A Sweater for Macuwita sni

I recently selected a Yankee Knitter Design pattern for my next Macuwita sni project.

It will be a fine looking sweater when completed... the pattern is called "English Rib". Yep - rib, as in ribbed, as in RIBBING. I don't know why I chose this ... I have to ask myself, "what was I thinking, a whole sweater in ribbing?" But, I digress ....

I console myself knowing that it will keep someone warm - the Cheyenne River Sioux saw temperatures in double digit negative numbers this past winter - who am I to complain of a little K1 P1? So, here is a photo of the 'almost completed back'. I post it here so I will complete it post haste ...... Wish me luck!

The Beat Goes on ....

I have been really busy. If you know me at all ... you know I am not good at being busy. I kind of roll on thru life - with coffee or wine in one hand and fiber and a dog in my other. In being busy - I find my hands are holding other things - things that I am not used to holding for any duration - I am trying to hold on to everything at the moment. Sometimes it works - sometimes, not so well.

One thing I made time for today is *Oprah*. I hadn't viewed her TV show in quite sometime. (See above paragraph.)~ ~ But today was a must see ... it was about
puppy mills. Suffice to say, NEVER purchase a pet thru a pet store ... check out your local shelters and pure bred rescues. NO dog ... NO LIVING THING should ever, ever live in conditions such as those found in puppy mills.

On a brighter, fibery note ..... Barnyard Chicks anyone?? WhEEEEE!

Swan Kissed Sun

I love the fact that day by day the colors of the Earth are changing. Spring does that - it is her job to brighten our days.

I am finding that colors are usurping my dye pots. How can they not?? The Sun shines longer & brighter these days ... the crocus have been waving at me for a bit and the robins play - looking for juicy somethings that have survived under the thin layer of frozen soil. Life is good!!

Swan Kissed Sun has a pale beauty that I love this time of year. Something gently pleasing that gets one's eye ready for the full force of Nature's springtime beauty.

I suppose Spring's arrival will not be today ... when I awoke - it was 18 degrees F! Did I mention that "Swan Kissed Sun" could be spun to make a nice pair of mittens??

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

Where are the daffodils??

I don't know about you, but the weather here is nuts! One day, up in the 60's ... the next 20's .... some snow, some rain, some sun. It *is* New England - is anything goes this time of year ... but, it is nutty all the same.

Some small crocuses have poked their wee heads to greet Spring with a smile. Haven't seen a daffodil (out side of market vases) as of yet - so, I created my own!!

Frosted Daffodils is my entry for the Etsy for Animals April Challenge. We are thinking Spring while helping animals!!

If you are looking for daffodils too ... look no further than these babies!! 5% of my sales goes to Pittie Love Rescue !! I am totally GIDDY as The Knotty Sheep's total has just cracked the $90 mark!! Woo-WHOO!! So .... here is a wee bit of Spring for all you spinners!!

UGH - way busy!

I have never been good at being busy. I don't like the hectic pace ... I feel not only do I not have a chance to think - I really feel like I don't have a chance to breathe.

Work outside the studio has become an 'all day event'. I admit to liking the larger paycheck in this 'unappealing' US economy - but a price is always paid on the creative front. Playing Easter hostess with over night guests attached and you have a recipe for 'really busy'.

As of today - I hoping that things straighten out and I can return to my fun loving, creative self. I feel like I am breathing already!

Of couuse - there is nothing like a good shot of color to get those creative juices flowing!! I did manage to work on more wee skeins - why dye eggs when you can dye yarn??

Did I mention that The Knotty Sheep will soon be in a Boston boutique? Well - more on that in a bit ... I must go breathe so I may create! WhEEEEEEE ..........

An Etsy Life

This past weekend, I took a look at my bedroom only to discover that most of my artworks & 'pretties' have been purchased from members of Etsy. That brings me incredible JOY to have someone's hard work; their talent; their God-given gift; present in my daily life. I celebrate each piece, knowing that a part of their grace has entered into my home.

I like selling my yarns & fibers there too. The Knotty Sheep had a banner weekend ... it was record breaking! For that, I am extremely grateful! $86.90 has been realized thus far, from sales, to donate to PittieLove Rescue - thank YOU dear customers ... I just tingle knowing that these funds will benefit dogs in need.

So many wonderful people on Etsy make up what Etsy is all about! Pam at Bags & More by Pam is one such person! She, like I and many others, are members of the BBEST team. We are very chatty AND recently, we had a goodie swap. Today, I received my swap gift from her ... and dear Pam - thank you!! It is a beautiful crocheted bag in red!! I love red!! Not only that, but as some of you know - I carry a small basket to work which houses a spindle ... Pam's bag HOLDS not only the basket & spindle & wool - but there is plenty of room for my notebook too. (Just in case I get a creative inspiration ... I can jot it down!) This bag is more than perfect as I have started to walk to work and now, I can carry my spindle basket easily. I LOVE IT!! AND thank YOU, Pam, for a most perfect gift!

Do visit Pam's store ... I think you need one of these hand crocheted, LINED bags too! Did I mention that it is perfect for carrying your knitting project too? WhEEEEEE!

Little Wee skeins!

I love little skeins. I have been known to take snippets of yarn, ply them, and have teeny-tiny wee skeins just an inch or two long. They are fun to make ... wonderful to view in a small vase ... but, difficult to put into skein form. Ah ... the challenges of the fiber arts!

I just finished a batch of what I call "Scrumble Skeins™" I love their colors and the fact that for short money - you can have a brilliant bouquet of hand spun lovelies is a delicious bonus! Perfect for stripes or weaving or freeform crochet ... they truly jump-start the Muse! What do you think of Lot #5? WhEEEEE!

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

The 'Gapish Scarf'

If you are like me ... you have 101 little balls of remnant yarn that sit in a collective basket just waiting for some love & attention. There isn't enough of any one color to do a whole hat or scarf. I think that is why 'stripes' were created. Call them whimsical, call them bold, call them trendy - I call them a necessity in the world of knitting.

Behold ... my 'Gapish Scarf' (think Big Store Chain) for Macuwita sni. It will take me some time to complete it as I decided that it needs a crocheted trim. I think that will tie everything together nice and neat. Not that it looks fragmented by any stretch of the imagination - but a crocheted edge would soften it as well as make it look 'UN-Gapish'. You know - like someone actually took the time to create a masterpiece and not some mass-produced piece of 'eeewwww' for "$$$ OUCH!"

I will keep you up to date of said "Gapish Scarf" and it's long journey to completion. That being said ... the kicker is - I don't crochet! Wish me luck!!
WhEEEEEE!