tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66425046301577700102024-02-07T03:31:52.302+00:00paraknitJudyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-65298863512253220072016-09-04T10:48:00.000+01:002016-09-04T10:48:57.919+01:00Pre Tour BlogAwakening blog pre USA and CAnada cricket tour.<br />
<br />Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-41273755897041157112011-10-10T17:00:00.000+01:002011-10-10T17:00:14.625+01:00Making Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFOLePfU4qkA65vtiawyUYCvjCHujJH7Np8ib3NqM85URwb_MFTmzVP-0PoI54tPO8yN9uXeKxmsHaLNGe6EBZXGIULwssHf3g1tIAsPHZbJSjoPE0oFAwq36gduLhtB59Y7oU4cs-bvFQ/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFOLePfU4qkA65vtiawyUYCvjCHujJH7Np8ib3NqM85URwb_MFTmzVP-0PoI54tPO8yN9uXeKxmsHaLNGe6EBZXGIULwssHf3g1tIAsPHZbJSjoPE0oFAwq36gduLhtB59Y7oU4cs-bvFQ/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> After many months of neglect I have revisited my blog, inspired by N who can be found here<br />
<a href="http://theyarnyard.co.uk/blog/">http://theyarnyard.co.uk/blog/</a><br />
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This photo shows me 'making a mess' last Monday. I took advantage of the fine few days we had last week to tidy the hedge in my garden. Unfortunately, this year, due to several incidents, many things in my life have been neglected. This hedge had grown so big, I needed a chain saw for some bits. One of the trees had died so that was taken out and I have 2 small conifers to go in the gap. One is a Thuga and one is a yew.<br />
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After many hours hard work, the garden looked like this the next day. Order was restored once more and I also had time to wash some fleece - the sun went in though and this fleece is now on the floor of my craft room. <br />
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</div>This Monday, the weather is not so good so I am having an indoor day. I have made bran loaves - one for this week and one to be put away for when we visit friends next week. Very easy recipe, 1 cup of each of the following , all bran, dried fruit, brown sugar, milk (with an egg in it) SRflour, mix and bake at gas mark 3 for an hour or so. <br />
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I managed to pick some sloes while I was in my ambulance sitting waiting for a call last week. We have to sit in the middle of Salisbury Plain and whilst many of my colleagues do not appreciate this, I am more than happy. There are plenty of them this year so I was able to pick them quite quickly. I kept them in the fridge and then today I have put them and some sugar in some gin and now just have to wait for 3 months !<br />
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I also made some birthday cards, but they have been put into envelopes ready for sending and I found a place on line that makes calendars from your own photos so I have made some of those and they will be used for presents. There has also been knitting but no photos of that either as it is a very long ongoing project which I have mentioned before. Hopefully it will soon be finished but I have just worked out that the border alone will take 40 hours to knit!Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-64760096052817441062011-03-16T17:43:00.001+00:002011-03-16T17:47:19.149+00:00Lyme Regis<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> Rog has not been too well following his knee operation so I decided that after yesterday's appt with the GP we would go out for the afternoon. We visited the GP in the camper van and then as the weather was fine, we headed for Lyme Regis. As you can see from the first photo, it was lovely down there. It was hazy but warm and the tide was in. We managed to park down by the harbour and then after some lunch, I left Rog sitting in the sun and went for a wander.</div><br />
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I love to see a working harbour and these nets were on the wall drying in the sun. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In between hospital visits and GP appts I have beeen crafting. I spun this yarn first and then knitted it into a simple scarf. It is fairly rustic when viewed close up but it is very soft and comfortable to wear. I had to guess when to change direction (the pattern has very specific weight instructions, but my digital scales only arrived this morning) but I made a good guess and ended up with about 2 ft spare after the sewn cast off.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75nmrbg5Njhh7mmlnlsE7i4lyDmK7l9DDbzB5jnBvuacVwfwJTOi_B88wfA51-Yw8IBG0CeXFC69cFLPQKQ1Sgc-_bNeg2LAlzVXktFjiihFhirWCZygUbr6JhhPojxlD8CU7Ae8CoQx_/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75nmrbg5Njhh7mmlnlsE7i4lyDmK7l9DDbzB5jnBvuacVwfwJTOi_B88wfA51-Yw8IBG0CeXFC69cFLPQKQ1Sgc-_bNeg2LAlzVXktFjiihFhirWCZygUbr6JhhPojxlD8CU7Ae8CoQx_/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This was the start of it, I actually pulled it back to the narrow bit and lengthened it.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I have also been sewing - my machine has come back from a much needed service. When we were in New Zealand a couple of years ago I bought a 'jellyroll' of typical New Zealand fabric and the other day I found a pattern that I liked. This is the start of it - I bought some green fabric to go with the roll and cut it into 2 inch strips. I like the effect so far but I think putting the squares together might be a bit of a nightmare.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I have made some changes to the settings on this blog and I did it in the middle of this post. The last two photographs enlarge if you click on them, but the first two do not. Hopefully in the future, they will all enlarge when clicked on.</div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-89342714194793984862011-01-04T19:47:00.005+00:002011-01-04T20:18:41.688+00:00One a DayI have decided this year to take a photo a day and try and keep a record of our life for a year. It is difficult at this time of year to always take a photo in day light as I am not often home during daylight hours. I am also going to try and get a little fitter - I set myself a target each week as I give up easily. This week's target is to use my indoor rowing machine 3 times. I have rowed twice so one more to go. I find it very difficult to row when I work as I am too tired when I get home.<br /><br /><div><br /><br /><div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558422493389953746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMPIhcUGmkTQaYd3gZDZLIAxDpGImWr4rjy3-rVbwXqFP6UWXbb-iQvs5Bb4-c6i_jrFcNS6nfBxP6YhTlHnbhNffQjFWIjWe9ZV6BwhTWxkVzdOb_KZRhhqQ5KLCm4o8q-wp4Ld6nQS2/s320/1+a+day+001.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>Photo number 1. This was a Christmas present from Andy and Carrie. It stands at the top of the stairs but in a very dark corner so it was difficult to capture. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558422070700926258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY9LznjiCxuHPfvt9UY6hycIU-nARI3TWrIpcLvYambIsKXRTwwfSsqGpf-cmCN6YlupaN4sFB0WXl9gkCfXY1W7XFp_FMxinGhsosoCYQEXoV_o7RvYLh1pp499NOFCE6zyOr7fhfkmOg/s320/1+a+day+002.JPG" /></div><br /><div>Photo number 2. This was taken from our bathroom window and I intend to take one each month from here to show the seasonal changes.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558422062370989618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnXzgkf4Ojw-iSCLKHeCnJbCwEhNzYWTEiCJ6b_hM4hNThpHvMa6GsBDBHQzDFPyCgU-wDMg865S9zRWp35l2KGLkVkXE6i2SIOrYAfrEkihfUYXBMQbxP0nzOOvAWOjYzpPh1ZwbV0Hd/s320/1+a+day+004.JPG" /></div><br /><div>Photo number 3. This is the river that runs alongside our garden. Not much water in it for this time of year but it looks very cold.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558422057832222114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N_sJmXklU-Z6zw5V81Buq1GoEQ1vUVVOfrMUv-HEG_ifjjmk48k-Ofe7g9m0KbiGzx4Lv4-5R9CG80Sw4D0o60wQYSzSX-Yi7l2Vkwzahrt2IyKNAPlhRAMkVh8hDuXExALalxysJArb/s320/1+a+day+008.JPG" /></div><br /><div>Photo number 4. The feeders outside our back door. The log has holes bored in it and I fill it with nuts, seeds, scraps and fat. The woodpeckers visit, but are very sneaky and hide behind the log, using the holes on the back. The tray under the feeder is to catch the seed that the nuthatch throws out when he is looking for his sunflower hearts.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>There has been knitting - presents for friends and family and started this week, socks for Rog as he gets cold feet in bed and is due to have his knes replace so will need easy on socks. </div><div><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/paraknit">http://www.ravelry.com/projects/paraknit</a> This is where I record all my projects, and is the group where I have made many new friends. It is the time of year when we will be meeting at York again and I am very much looking forward to it.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-31205132659308895492010-10-31T09:38:00.005+00:002010-10-31T10:18:37.573+00:00Simple and FreeAt the beginning of the summer this year, I deceded that each week we (Rog and I ) should set aside one day and do something together. I work shifts and Rog is theoretically retired so it should be possible for us to find one day. It has worked out well and we have taken advantage of cheap train travel, using our camper van, going on a paddle steamer and various day trips.. Recently we camper vanned in mid Wales which was bitterly cold but beautiful and last week we went down to Lyme Regis to see a friend. The last two trips have given me an opportunity to do some walking and I relised how much I have missed it.<br /><br />This morning I was lying in bed and listening to Radio 2 - it was Aled Jones and his theme was 'Simple and Free' so I decided to make use of the extra hour and go for a walk. I think that I, probably like many others, forget that I live in a beautiful area and there is no need to 'go' somewhere.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534143421423884898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJFUy0VjgYJPi80LakD7zUpKPpXrWFzvjnJHtLsESnB2W5JB3vnpdVccU_Tm3uv_KoXbomWYbEBUdenM_VS6OLqzdBxeXhYOARy1tnO_Q7nkpy5HFmemjZZY40rXI6CUT-KhWL9_a7DohW/s320/local+013.JPG" /><br />This boundary marker is a couple of hundred metres up the road from me. I didn't think that we lived in the Cotswolds, but there it is , set in stone, so I must. As it was a wet morning, I decided to try and find a circular route of about an hour that would not be too muddy. Unless I walk along the canal, I am faced with a hill in whatever direction I walk. I decided to go up to a place called Muirhill and on the way, stopped to get my breath back and look at 'my' valley.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534143412549742226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsx_7BelYDdc1cpGq-IL_ZBfL4bAIMIDavBA8s-DekFCQiw63Qwg8IhLXDAKb3181uyzs8r64AKhlb06AZT9euxP92hWAv1PDJDokcNQ_4OBhNOlT5RHAX5WXYOyef2lTcdkUl6jU1S7L/s320/local+002.JPG" /><br />This is the village where I live but my house is over to the right , off camera. Just above the lowest trees is the old railway station, no longer functioning as a station but is lived in. This is where the film 'The Titfield Thunderbolt' was set. I had a lovely walk and discovered many footpath possibilities for another day.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534143399704547090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbeJmPhRsMvWrzgv8ocrfp5TFRhba9Jxq9D20DDV5CseI9a03D3U7i_rpd-UUNEIrTbhcDn7JfhksE0IhtG2v2lWCFYdVNFED0xvDWwB56MFehItbSPSiMv_Zs4RdeMMfcI8KccpJq6yo7/s320/local+012.JPG" /><br /><br />This is on the way home again and although this is a main road, it was empty at 8 o,clok on a Sunday morning and very pretty to walk along. When Andy was at playgroup, 22 years ago, I walked this route every day with him. When he was tiny, he sat on the back of my bike and I pushed him up the hill and then rode on the flatter part. The footpath that you can see was wide enough in those days to walk along and have room for my bike beside me. Today it is hardly wide enough to walk along.<br /><br />I was out for about an hour and had a really lovely time. I came back and had a mug of tea and planned the rest of my day. I could spin some more, knit some more of this blanket (which I re-discovered yesterday while looking for something else)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534143395993808962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dYOvneia5k7SpAXQ6XS9a26ZDO9T25xVbXlZxr2-pdcqOvgs-tzJZAeu-MZ6nkZSzZX46pLeIVGFp7PnRlivLr-HAn2wg29s4f_vD4XRaELRAP21pCivOP_BePeQbbfsKu97r_Iu6yKC/s320/local+001.JPG" /></div><br /><p>knit some more Christmas presents, get ready for my November socks and November Cranford KAL <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cranford-mitts">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cranford-mitts</a> - Oh so many things I would like to do...............</p><p>Then the dream ended and back to reality, bed for me this afternoon ready for a night shift, but I have at least achieved my aim for today, an activity which was 'Simple and Free'.</p><p></p><p></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-26814668902322575032010-09-20T12:47:00.003+01:002010-09-20T13:33:18.544+01:00Frome ShowNo excuses for lack of blogging - I have been enjoying my summer and we have taken every oportunity to go away in the camper van.<br /><br />I went to The Royal Welsh Show back in July and was very disappointed at the lack of entries in the handicraft section. I decided to start entering my knitting in shows again and start with my local show. I did not get the schedule until August so did not have much time but I entered 7 different classes. I entered a scarf, a shawl, a pair of socks, a bag, a lavender bag (crocheted ! ), a summer top and a baby jacket. I had to burn the midnight oil a couple of nights but finally it was all ready. I could not get to the setting up day so my friend Chris and other half Rog took my items for me.<br /><br />The day of the Show and I was at home doing some jobs before going for the afternoon and I got a text from my friend to say my socks had won! I was very excited because I nearly didn't enter them as I thought I could see a definite 'ladder' line in the purl stitches. We went to the show and I found I had won 2 firsts, a second and a very highly commended. There were some very high quality items there and I was pleased I had entered and also peased that knitting once again seems to be on the up. I also met some knitters from a local knitting group that I did not know existed so I am now going to join them when I can - shifts <strong>do</strong> get in the way.<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518962185761155698" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10bUN_TErQMhxmqnwH04JGVjvaGv8DO20X_ktSSGOqqE22UdO78pxD6u5eDhCUsLxa7puUnS3ymxg4_7nQfNSRKko8X7oSwCCnTylgNijpc8_QyGCvywGjNI2bh-ADKXo9J4h5f60rEgI/s320/Frome+Show+003.JPG" /><br /><br />Winning Socks<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518962180266742866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6CFiAIw3ACItAkT03vSOHkZlUHUUYQWTEoeIbL_JIuPZh5UfWh2rSiwbJQvdRGBJAZIjNM0bI6d-AWuf4knPPLLMzVhz-0iSga0eIGmQUeWlE1MCD1nbSdBjgwmXfp07Q15rduj-5_8a/s320/Frome+Show+002.JPG" /><br />Baby Jacket<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518962175714285554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRTLFuTk0z39StewWU48Mln0LamIjvOP7AyrQyog2OarjnmrsGwMMJdiIP00B_rRIEbVGBunW4P0XRlJ-I1ldbIDEifj4JLOtUypZ-8xBxRTVI2CPFkUUzwR58gU_bsZY9FDmIJzF6g8S/s320/Frome+Show+001.JPG" /> Summer Top</div><div></div><div></div><div>I am in a knitting group on Ravelry which is run by</div><div>Natalie <a href="http://theyarnyard.co.uk/index.php">http://theyarnyard.co.uk/index.php</a> and one of the things we are doing is a 12 in 12 challenge. We are trying to knit 12 pairs of socks in 12 Months and there are very few rules. Some of the socks must be in YY yarn and the socks must be wholly knitted in the calendar month but they do not have to be a pair . This is my 'pair' for the month of September, a work sock in Regia and a lace sock in Yarn Yard Clan.<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518962192188917650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZ_FmS0p05w0W7q9lqNKXPJNS8pwvJy7te8TzNjjNYl1r3SHMaGVfYZd9Eu3SEyN5_Vjd1LYug5VyUaHuEP_S8k1NuGeR0eR5-R9nIUBKUednjJXKD0NVnBa85havOFhEWtXEtmt_k_JX/s320/007.JPG" />The cricket has just started so off to do the ironing and get ready for tonight's shift.<br /><br /><div><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-87456124884627913702010-05-22T14:52:00.011+01:002010-05-22T22:40:21.343+01:00BusyLife has been very busy recently but there has always been time for knitting. I decided to use some of my stash from The Yarn Yard and make a modular jumper. I have 2 of these skeins and 2 other skeins that I thought were of a similar colouring, that is until I wound the skein into a ball! Natalie had hidden some bright yellow in the skein. The picture shows the skein, the ball with a part knitted octagon and a complete octagon. The original pattern uses DK and I am using 4 ply and it is also too small so I have decided to enlarge each module and end up with something that fits.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLFCSIV0T7NT3aAG3dk7o-u6hoIYAPMO9l7NLqE6fygocwaghHJtQ8t-S8YL4A8l4LxCe7UKDDgjMVWTeeVea2XCgpx-jTa1QxTc8S4yFRwVYntZnFMeg34VuzywOxA55AatgZtYwZaWV/s1600/025.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474095043430733650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRLFCSIV0T7NT3aAG3dk7o-u6hoIYAPMO9l7NLqE6fygocwaghHJtQ8t-S8YL4A8l4LxCe7UKDDgjMVWTeeVea2XCgpx-jTa1QxTc8S4yFRwVYntZnFMeg34VuzywOxA55AatgZtYwZaWV/s320/025.JPG" border="0" /></a> Here is the first completed octagon but when I pinned it out, it is a bit big so I will make the next one a bit smaller and pull back some of this. I love the swirls of colour that this yarn makes.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474095047265320498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuz22eFyERhNcXLoF9mILFpF9FaveIvySTZvwfnoogQ_yJQQ6Ysh_Q2gCJyt53iHt4_CAtBEDch02_i1fTYDyfUZ3MOpY62rnhhnPw4k-kMETOOw16E70hAwMjFb5r5LGikPkrgoy4a9xh/s320/028.JPG" border="0" /><br />Last week it was the smallholders show in Wales and we paid a visit. It was a lot bigger than the first year I visited and I had a lovely time wandering around the animals on show.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474095041658431090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmxEjEn5zI17DcFMqsFc5vyuEfLMex7RDrKINWhBXMRe01F0d1ckQIr-puPPUFuWPilMqI_HFpN94GHSm31rSfZ7GU0C5T7pqVuYiJ0ws2D5X01qpHbABfXtGi8xe4rez8LlmushZ9Fxbs/s320/008.JPG" border="0" /><br />Some 'regal' looking llamas<br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474094127984693106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJtEFW6__vwzV2MexXz5JKESlMzxCPy2Ku4WimLuSghIUu54Y2PTCTBP7-8OyBlHFAOhyphenhyphenttXBbfootbT-In-lKWfPk_2S2kAkOrU83rwUlQ6PazeqTNJ8vTfparWvA9DToO0zEdOIBBct/s320/012.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>A beautiful ram<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474094123980033650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjTTep4KFbjFzuwhBKQ4lDkU2Y7817nNwsBoKjTiXe7g5APP4wyS7Fb8y2pOEdCMSc-nx4uEXvbAUvFXHHFbFv-NYPEfOCkOsEXvDaFQNFzJcTtUUsnEBqiRqDjiBMwASyU1nW5PNnmTd/s320/007.JPG" border="0" /></div><div></div><br /><div>An adorable angora goat kid.<br /></div><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Some days before the show we were guests at a wedding and I decided to knit a shawl. Unfortunately the weather was not warm enough for my planned outfit so the shawl did not get worn. We were however going out to dinner on another day so it did get an outing. The original pattern is for a small shawl but I extended each section and used three shades of purple yarn and I am very pleased with the result. I usually end up knitting shawls for other people, but this time I am keeping this one.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474094115237296626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDA_AIMD5vMWXsrxFfh0XlrKIZ7GjhJTa70sddxL5pQBMkyCsaPVMvp1mltdHMmuR_pXAgnHTnjC9uI5uwaU-TEVHbSX_S3P_SnuD0EMVPX8rSUNR36qy8jnsFNM74HZFeNyV3v-6-GE1y/s320/001.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-37864822004065355822010-03-12T15:20:00.005+00:002010-03-12T15:35:30.509+00:00Photos<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAbNcolErz3XEjhd2wwLIi1veIGrdQ1HYYVAv9E4FCn6jazMDjWRVAdjFvjP4o4QtuO3qI-qZAFLBEmlNc6rYywgTbjlNsdsS1BpCHtzOUaiHM1jiRlZYpVzvYXYXsDVMX_Y4sL4oM0Sb/s1600-h/T+%26T+Tour+131.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447770056412219938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAbNcolErz3XEjhd2wwLIi1veIGrdQ1HYYVAv9E4FCn6jazMDjWRVAdjFvjP4o4QtuO3qI-qZAFLBEmlNc6rYywgTbjlNsdsS1BpCHtzOUaiHM1jiRlZYpVzvYXYXsDVMX_Y4sL4oM0Sb/s320/T+%26T+Tour+131.JPG" /></a> On a boat after snorkelling at Buccoo Reef and swimming in the Nylon Pool Tobago<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB3aH2rVNs0i8dCjSCGVUt6WhEpTuwlNlAd64fCMpNjwlQKzBtbaiLKQUmKezv_Y2pgeMsTvOokq4StoJNEEll4eculHtrSAdZzd6eyV3-lmX2ShR8V6oFvDxN42bm7OsXbtFGHTKebscy/s1600-h/T+%26T+Tour+098.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447770049789389714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB3aH2rVNs0i8dCjSCGVUt6WhEpTuwlNlAd64fCMpNjwlQKzBtbaiLKQUmKezv_Y2pgeMsTvOokq4StoJNEEll4eculHtrSAdZzd6eyV3-lmX2ShR8V6oFvDxN42bm7OsXbtFGHTKebscy/s320/T+%26T+Tour+098.JPG" /></a> With Anisa, nominated for the Trinidad and Tobago Sports Personality of the Year.<br />I was an invited guest and luckily had this 'smart' blouse with me.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsEQAIll52bplVlL4dEkcrenD28KEnAar-87vz3oIWDBqoO6fBlMfhkrfB_o037ZF5FVMknJhzQReCmWlMp2hsrVxTlQCoOyHcUsYOA5kUomvUByovGIg3xTFxXJBtr4NCgI7uI_lqAynD/s1600-h/T+%26T+Tour+035.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447770038701667938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsEQAIll52bplVlL4dEkcrenD28KEnAar-87vz3oIWDBqoO6fBlMfhkrfB_o037ZF5FVMknJhzQReCmWlMp2hsrVxTlQCoOyHcUsYOA5kUomvUByovGIg3xTFxXJBtr4NCgI7uI_lqAynD/s320/T+%26T+Tour+035.JPG" /></a><br />Spindling on the balcony outside my room in Trinidad.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKibl5B8ONk8_LSzhfPLR0qQ8vVR96bXtR6mXihf_b7zJmz-v8BGB20PzYtYGElQ-CQ_mx-1ko_sFcX-GJMpJ3Ow9a837zo3Cm_WzU0LrYm-F1_P_VjHVs9qjrZkJIJHgsc6AyQ9QxvTC7/s1600-h/T+%26T+Tour+024.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447770035249951954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKibl5B8ONk8_LSzhfPLR0qQ8vVR96bXtR6mXihf_b7zJmz-v8BGB20PzYtYGElQ-CQ_mx-1ko_sFcX-GJMpJ3Ow9a837zo3Cm_WzU0LrYm-F1_P_VjHVs9qjrZkJIJHgsc6AyQ9QxvTC7/s320/T+%26T+Tour+024.JPG" /></a><br />After one of my early morning swims in the pool you can just glimpse below our balcony.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7B1J9sJvnktdzP5n6X-Iv591G7nJ40GdeEcEd8fPrH7mFLdxL66xcn2B5imZYNb8fBVPw0YzYdbYx9mS5QmFpZhkOLJzsz6rixzP6VglaQnlNKj0PLOOsj32jvu0Q_AicGhmDieXnBN6/s1600-h/T+%26T+Tour+003.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447770024404953810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7B1J9sJvnktdzP5n6X-Iv591G7nJ40GdeEcEd8fPrH7mFLdxL66xcn2B5imZYNb8fBVPw0YzYdbYx9mS5QmFpZhkOLJzsz6rixzP6VglaQnlNKj0PLOOsj32jvu0Q_AicGhmDieXnBN6/s320/T+%26T+Tour+003.JPG" /></a><br />Arriving in Trinidad. View from the plane.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-1849268135786378552010-03-03T00:13:00.006+00:002010-03-03T00:47:05.268+00:00Latest UpdateMonday March 1st<br /><br />A day off!! Another cloudless sky and hot day but this time no cricket - a day to ourselves. A little business first as the MCC wanted the score sheets from the weekend, so I managed to fax them from Hotel reception. We had hired our tour bus driver for the day and we planned to go to the beach to meet the Trinidad and Tobago ladies team. The beach we were going to was about an hour away and is called Maracas. I t was a very pretty route over the mountains and we stopped a couple of times for Photo opportunities. The beach looked beautiful when we arrived, palm trees and lots of sand and deep blue sea. The sand was too hot to walk on but the sea was very close. We put the cool box full of water under a palm tree and into the sea. It was lovely and warm but there were a few waves. We stayed in for ages, and I actually had a manager's meeting with the Trinidad and Tobago manager chest deep in the sea! There was a small 'incident' when I went in to photograph the beach from the sea with my waterproof camera. Lesley and I waded out and I was taking a shot of her when we were knocked over by the biggest wave of the day. I felt her rushing past me, under water but towards the shore. When I eventually stood up, my tankini was around my neck and ankles but I still had hold of my camera. Lesley had lost her glasses but was in one piece. Several of the team came to our rescue - the one who is nervous of water did take her shoes and socks off but directed proceedings from the water's edge. In what must be a million to one chance, one of the team found Lesley's glasses and they were not even floating! After that little episode we needed sustenance so over the road we went to Richard's Bake and Shark. This is a famous delicacy consisting of a fried bread roll thing filled with battered shark and then any sort of salad and sauces you want. Our trust liason officer had negotiated local rates so it was very cheap. After lunch there was more swimming and we all bought necklaces and bracelets from a beach trader. Back to the hotel for dinner and a couple of beers around the pool. A brilliant but tiring 'rest day'.<br /><br /><br />Tuesday March 2nd<br /><br />Back to work today! We were programmed to coach today so on the coach to the National Cricket Centre where we met the T and T ladies for a day's coaching of some 50 local school children. I don't think my tum appreciated the shark sandwich of yesterday so I was struggling. I drank lots of water and ate fruit but I did not attempt the spicy West Indian lunch, which is a pity because it looked delicious. We finished coaching at 2 and then our coach driver and liason officer had managed to get us a good deal on a boat trip on a mangrove swamp. We lathered ourselves in insect repellent and boarded our boat. It was a very interesting trip and we saw fog fish, four eyed fish ( these can apparently see under water and on top of water at the same time) snakes, tree crabs and then the finale was hundreds of red ibis coming in to roost for the night. The trip was 2 hours and cost us each about £5. We were all so tired and dirty that we did not bother with a meal, we just grabbed some food from a supermarket and back to the hotel .Early night tonight as we have a one day game tomorrow.Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-59368459783790653202010-03-01T01:04:00.006+00:002010-03-01T02:11:27.229+00:00More WindiesFriday 26 February<br /><br /><br /><br />Lazy morning playing in the pool and doing some washing. First match tonight so keeping out of the sun as much as possible to conserve energy for playing later. Snack lunch round the pool and then into less formal uniform of navy walk shorts and white polos to go and watch the Zimbabwe cricket team playing a warm up game. We were treated like royalty and given special seats under a big sun shade with liptons ice tea - raspberry flavoured - for refreshment. It was an exciting game which went to the last ball with the Zimbabwe team just managing to scrape a win.<br /><br />We then changed into warm up kit and were given an air conditioned hall to warm up in and then some outside nets to get used to the lights which we were playing under. I had been selected to play the game which was a twenty over game. We were using pink balls so it was quite a memorable match - first under lights and first with the pink ball. Unfortunately the Trinidad and Tobago team were far too strong for us and we lost very badly. We only scored 56 runs and they got them very easily in about 12 overs. I was not required to bowl or bat and I managed to successfully field the balls that came to me. There was a large crowd watching and we were astonished by how excited they all got and how loud they were. The team were very despondant after the game but we had to buck ourselves up and forget the game and think of tomorrow. Another day and another game.<br /><br /><br /><br />Saturday 27 February<br /><br /><br /><br />Up early, but still managed a swim before breakfast and on to the coach to travel to the National Cricket Centre for a one day game. It was about an hour away from where we are staying. It had been decided that I would be manager for this game and not take part in the play. It was extremely hot when we arrived and the pitch was very large and much browner and dustier than we are used to. We had our photos taken in our suits and then while the teanm warmed up, I chatted to the opposition manager/coach and other officials about the tour and what we expected from it. There had been so much media hype about the tour and one or two things had got out of perspective and our reason for being here was getting lost. We are here to promote and develope cricket, not just to play matches where winning is important. We are also here on tour so should have some enjoyment as well. I decided one way to break the ice and foster friendly relations was to split the teams up at lunch and we would mix and match. We played a lot better in this game and took wickets and contained their runs. The 12th man and myself used a lot of energy running onto the pitch with drinks every half hour and taking ice around to fielders to cool their hands. Lunch was very pleasant, and the teams started to interact. After lunch we were batting so I was not needed to run on with water. Our liason officer had invited his family to come and watch and they had a car boot full of cold drinks. I was treated to 'Trinidad Coke ' or so we told my team. It consisted of a very pleasant mix of dark rum, angostura bitters and lime. It was very refreshing !! We unfortunately lost this game as well but we played much better and it was an enjoyable day. We were very tired and dusty so came back to the hotel to swim but Bev (the captain) and I got a phone call saying we were to go to the local radio station for a live interview. We jumped in a taxi and off we went. We met 2 of the Trinidad management team there and had an interview with all four of us together. It was great fun and we laughed a lot. Back to the hotel where the team were waiting to go out for a meal. It was just down the road so we walked to it and although we had to wait ages for the food, it was good when it arrived.<br /><br /><br /><br />Sunday 28 February<br /><br /><br /><br />The big day has arrived !! This is the day that we are to play at 'The Queen's Oval' ground as the warm up game before the Zimbabwe team play the West Indies Team. It is a twenty over game wearing coloured clothing and using a pink ball. It was a very early start - 07 30 - so no time for a swim today. Again I have to do my Manager's Job so no playing for me. I am a little disappointed about this but I am here as mManager so this is my priority. We arrived at the ground and were directed by security to our changing rooms. We were in our suits, so had the usual team photo. I was going to join the team in the warm up but at the last minute I had to change into our semi smarts as I was to spend the match in the media centre with the scorers so that I could identify our team members for them. I had absolutely the best seats in the ground, and was sitting with Colin Croft, an ex West Indies player,but I would have preferred to be down with the team amongst the atmosphere. Trinidad and Tobago batted first and we played well today and took all their wickets just before the twenty overs was up. Our Captain Bev took 5 wickets and was also involved in 2 run outs. ( She was later voted player of the match)Lesley, our 12th man did a grand job of runnig out onto the pitch with drinks. Unfortunately our batsmen did not do so well and again we lost the game but it was a great match. We were taken over to lunch and then back to the afternoon match at which we were guests. The seats we had been allocated were behind the dug outs so although we were able to be close to the teams we could not see the match very well, so we sat there while the teams ran out and then moved. It was a very exciting start and a wicket fell on the very first ball. Zimbabwe were 3 - 0 (they had lost three wickets and scored no runs) but they recovered and went on to score just over a hundred runs. During the West Indies innings, some of the girls wanted to go into the 'noisy stand'. This was a stand with music and dancers and looked a lot of fun, but was ticket only. Somehow we manged to get in there and were able to join in. The West Indies somehow managed to lose the game and just before the end we moved back to our official seats so that we could meet the two teams. When it came time to leave, the four teams left at about the same time so we felt very special as we walked through the car park with security keeping back the crowd. Back to the hotel to relax in the pool after what has been a very special day indeed.Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-5226760315643471302010-02-26T14:48:00.002+00:002010-02-26T15:04:52.866+00:00More West IndiesThursday 25 th February<br /><br />Suffering from sore feet from last night. It was an amazing reception, very formal with lots of protocols but very tiring. We are all suffering from standing for so long in shoes and suits that we are unaccustomed to.<br /><br />I woke early this morning so I started with a before breakfast swim in the outdoor pool. It was a delightful way to start the day and was followed by breakfast with fresh fruit. Onto our coach to travel to the UWI which is the sports university. Here we were to coach about 60 children for the day. We all lathered on loads of sun cream but as we realised later in the evening, it was not enough!! The children were of all abilities and quickly attached themselves to one of our younger coaches who had to spend half an hour at the end of the day signing autographs. It was hot all day but we were treated to a lovely lunch in an air conditioned room so we were fevived for the afternoon.<br /><br />We travelled back to the hotel for a brief freshen up in the pool before we donned our second, slightly less formal suit for our reception with the British High Commissioner and his wife. We asked our liaison officer to ring and ask his PA if our 2nd uniform was acceptable and were very relieved when he said yes. The Britsh High Commissioner had met us the night before so had seen our full uniform. This was a lovely evening and was hosted from his house. This is up on the hill and has splendid views out to sea and over the Port Of Spain city. There were some important West Indian sporting women there, the World hammer throwing champion, a contender for the world boxing title and a beach volley ball player. It was a lot less formal and we all had a great time. We went from there to a famous bar in town called 'Smokey and Bunty'.<br /><br />I finally manged to round them all up and we came back to the hotel at a reasonable time as Bev (the captain) and I need to be up early as we have a TV interview on local breakfast TV tomorrow.Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-59815489211035554712010-02-25T01:39:00.005+00:002010-02-25T02:04:47.870+00:00West IndiesNo pictures yet, they will follow, but sitting on my bed in Trinidad where we are on tour.<br /><br />Monday 22nd February.<br /><br />Drove to London where the touring team, the MCC Ldies Cricket team were meeting for the start of their tour. We had designer suits made for us as a touring uniform and this was to be the first time we had seen them. Paul Costello is the designer and the suit consists of a navy jacket with red and yellow ribbon trim and a navy skirt. Very smart but not quite my sort of thing. Paul came to see us all and we had several photos taken with him in the Long Room. We also had head and shoulder pictures done (have not seen mine yet but have seen the team ones).<br /><br />We also had a net session, packed our bags, including a mangers bag which weighed 32kilos and was/is my reponsibility. This is filled with cricket balls, a flag and miscellaneous presents to be given to officials. Off to the hotel in the airport for the night.<br /><br />Tuesday 23rd February.<br /><br />Up very early, into suits and high heeled shoes and walked, or staggered to the airport. I had a big shoulder bag with paperwork,laptop etc a cricket bag and a managers bag so I was struggling ! We managed to get all our luggage through, (massively overweight) and went through to departures. There I said the team could change into official tracksuits, which we had hidden in our hand luggage. The flight was long, 11 hours but it passed uneventfully. I knew we were being met at the Trinidad airport so I thought we could change while waiting for our bags. What I didn't know,was that the Zimbabwe men's team were travelling with us and so the press were waiting as we got off the plane! We all had to dash into the loos and do a quick change. With the change and the heat, I was a dripping mess and had 'bed hair' from the flight and was caught for interview! The first interview was with Colin Croft who is a famous retired West Indian cricket player. I then had some sort of television interview. Next we were met by our Liaison officer and taken to the carpark - mistakenly, I thought it was to get on the coach, but no, it was to have cold beers from the boot of his car!! The heat, the flight, the small amount of food and beer are not a good mix for me. We moved to our hotel and ended up eating a meal at 22 30 which is 02 30 English time.<br /><br /><br />Wednesday 24 th<br /><br />Leisurely breakfast after a swim in the outdoor pool and then back into the suits to go to 'The Oval' for photos and a press conference. Had our photos taken and then the captain and I had our conference. We were taken to a room and when we opened the door it was to see a row of cameras and microphones. I do not remember much about all the questions but we got through it without making too many mistakes. We were told at this point that we had featured on the tele and also in the Trinidad Guardian. I think if you google it you can find the photo. We then had a lazy afternoon around the swimming pool before getting into our suits yet again to go and meet the Trinidad President and his First Lady. Very formal affair and standing for two and a half hours in high heeled shoes !!Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-55211632685712708942010-02-02T14:26:00.010+00:002010-02-02T15:06:29.533+00:00Convent(ion)This last weekend I had an adventure. Many months ago a chance remark on here, <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/account/login">https://www.ravelry.com/account/login</a><br /><div>led to a group of us gathering in a converted convent in York for a knitting/spinning/crafting weekend.</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433655797007113586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsghJ3ygdBDMh45Fzcm8jveht8deXDlABx05oyp15aBs6AFxQStWkrd5cG1iKRVfUAcvBMyx0kmuUQpAudkxAXmyVZCljglpOfff5f-XiKnqtXZc9EkeavOhioPND3_245d0_ACEQqEBcb/s320/York+001.JPG" />This is a picture of my bedroom. Not the largest imaginable and apart from having to virtually crawl on my knees to get there, it was very comfortable. It was up in the eaves of the building behind the bell tower and this is the view from the window.<br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433655799188955794" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXxdIZO9SYaWE1VOnxdoQ89VqPoCn-wJWVMM3DATnhbdmgEupUrxxqMsrpUlaOdNut0ED8tmEd3pTKRxfM9ALIaVmKKQdYfQb9ccUa4KHrOIjK10cj5FQZCUFfdgFjQuGNXf7Bh-F55T56/s320/York+005.JPG" />The weather was bitterly cold, but dry and sunny and there was an opportunity to explore York. I walked the entire wall, both ways. The first time I was alone as I was competing against 'The Archers' and Andy Murray for company, but the second time, I had company in the form of my friend Natalie. This talented lady dyes yarn and below is an example of her yarn. It is now a sock for me to play cricket in on my tour to Trinidad later this month. This is how you can find her work. <a href="http://www.theyarnyard.co.uk/">http://www.theyarnyard.co.uk/</a><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433655805227724546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3xXAwJ20JxsHdMYf7e-7XTSIiITzDa6AakeqwQfRf8QMP7FlFWbnXi00zxfJYF_-s8mpUvs9KuzQS3v4i3jTWQhyphenhyphencCYrPlvByya7Y03z66SLHWTAO7RTdjJ-LRNWjgAAwm3bqZWolVIBn/s320/York+032.JPG" />The sock is plain knitting, toe up, but when I came to the leg, I purled all the coloured stitches that I came to. This really makes the colours 'pop' out and gives a lovely random texture.<br /><br />Apart from exploring the wall walk, we went to a quilt exhibition, ate loads, knitted, chatted (lots), learned to tat, learned to crochet, spun on wheels and spindles, laughed and chatted some more. We were known as 'the knitters' but at one point we were mistaken for nuns.<br /><br />As I don't know how to upload more photos half way through a post, more can be seen here <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/paraknit">http://www.flickr.com/photos/paraknit</a> if you are interested.Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-27409866899894950842009-12-30T13:22:00.003+00:002009-12-30T13:42:37.194+00:00Walk and projects<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsC4vyVAr7j8Hbxd-LGErhpdW3dbzYWAm_i1okbnu3jfDOgvqHy1DS-_wo0dP9cJqpslsB6lTlxpSU15_FZpQCUd87WcYBLhQw2NJZMEeZxqs-86T9gqBRSSs3V4Y5Gv8Hb1Uu5RYbZ4We/s1600-h/Tree+Frog+003.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421020222576195058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsC4vyVAr7j8Hbxd-LGErhpdW3dbzYWAm_i1okbnu3jfDOgvqHy1DS-_wo0dP9cJqpslsB6lTlxpSU15_FZpQCUd87WcYBLhQw2NJZMEeZxqs-86T9gqBRSSs3V4Y5Gv8Hb1Uu5RYbZ4We/s320/Tree+Frog+003.JPG" /></a> On Christmas Day we were supposed to go for a walk on a beach somewhere but the weather was against us. Instead, we decided to visit some friends and go for a walk on the 'front' at Clevedon. Not really seaside as it is the River Severn but there are some lovely views over to Wales and there are some waves. My DH needed the little boy's room and I found this in a wall while I was waiting.<br /><div><div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421020206331420978" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGNFMVk40sdUMEzQ8IDb9iWJXNYWFzDq4A9xIsFU-MnCYgOpdPDvRSwCTvY4Y4EfWpbPn3t9tSN-8yGocAzt7pJpoAkuFYwYhZih-Wip3ZbDx1i1MqKBdgCCtRm3XRAejDRgYQ92dpiKR/s320/Tree+Frog+002.JPG" /><br />It was quite a scruffy wall and this is beautiful - well in my opinion anyway. I love patterned tiles and to find this, really made my day. It is in good condition and I loved the colours, and of course the white roses.<br /><div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421019678119507778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWMYtEgxf6V60oBzYE6tQGK67XWGLiYwGCoTtpDqP_-x25n4tO03K6FD8i4YPCSxeKgziiok_z4j6yBntouIzob1A58_4IWTr08Br_vB_OJ4r-9UGLAZX_yrSRz_vKi4U3eGRO1CpUBRhi/s320/Tree+Frog+009.JPG" />The weather here has been quite appalling - cold and wet and then freezing so there has been knitting. This was a Christmas present for my Mum but unfortunately he had to be wrapped and then brought home again because I failed to finish the toes. It is a delightful pattern to knit but the toes drove me crazy. The pattern is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tree-frog-3">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tree-frog-3</a><br />and is very well written.<br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421019671041677874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1T0GNND8fW3dK-lJTZQlI2Xl63SGzf6J0lD1GEsb8fBaZm_NyOK5XAUNYobOk8aWLy7Sz7T86bBbXrQlbYMpmLCLWptStEkh1jFdS-6KSEMj3IYArQOZbkvZAYIVZEIdUczGF_fiKm5cS/s320/spoke+004.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div>I also started knitting this but it is going to have to be changed. It is 'Spoke' from Knitty and should be knit in an Aran type yarn. I wanted to make it in DK but unfortunately it is not working. The width is OK but not the length, so I am going to try adding some variegated 4 ply and working the 2 together.</div><div> </div><div>I have so many projects on the go and many more ideas but I am back to work tomorrow so they are going to have to wait.......</div><div> </div><div> </div></div></div></div><br /><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-22619981207715613572009-11-29T21:55:00.004+00:002009-11-29T22:10:59.626+00:00Not Knitting but........<div><br />The rain has kept on and on all day and so I spent the day 'crafting'. Not much knitting progress, just a few rounds on Mieke's gloves and socks but I have been crocheting. I can crochet basic stuff where tension is not an issue and I enjoy making Christmas decorations.<br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409648385632952914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyHaUDsbLiSt8yC4FOtoWbLUfNG-GrmC6xHXakZfSmYGdRbO4F_qUxLhjlzGSUTXytEe-YrvZxnX59KwFzj6pLTNapT0MXYKrI20Mw8cQZG-aLPW3SF9BKupO5GjWsdtbuPvT2MjMaZKG/s320/005.JPG" /><br />This is a mat which hopefully by 'The Day' will be a set of placemats. Very easy hexagon with a cluster edging. Crocheted with 'peaches and creme' cotton from the USA.</div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409648378306848178" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G5OmEG8p6AdAFf39MGSHr4N_uipWoZzp_3wX8eoi1JEI2THL0l-mrL8d5QfeKYZK0gzHrJ8wNVzsXSvPcPAxJnUDuH6Gq4GSoGTOHJfv2nyzsOua3q-aPKL0UxSz5cY9dZneMH5fW_vi/s320/004.JPG" /></div></div></div><br /><br /><p>Another hexagon pattern which will become a table decoration and perhaps an afghan if I get <em>hooked </em>and make too many hexagons. I easily become addicted to modular projects and always want to make just one more corner or fill in one more line.</p><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409648370774868594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQa_ELfRlta33bMhONIyFqgn4_xv3oRJuHXQRXLTqLcArDh1aWcvacVEYZXEnryBbil4Ul8KHuQYSub8G1HSj_-4KZkM5uewAN_kVOoZ6B2po5Pm7XQ9XK4UMFseY0EH_rS2iKYCLJwJUx/s320/003.JPG" /></p><br /><p></p><br /><p>Finally I have been working on the writing of the pattern for this 'chinese lantern' pen or needle holder. Or in fact holder for anything - one year I made loads and put plants in them and gave them as presents.</p>I was supposed to be working tomorrow but I have been stood down so we are going to friends in Wales and on Tuesday we are going to visit a sort of stately home - will write about it after the visit.<br /><p></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-58866368877707471082009-11-24T21:38:00.004+00:002009-11-24T21:51:38.419+00:00Crafts but not Knitting<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ZdB5Bhyphenhyphen80_LHOsCYbD7E0zLMdwJ2-r9T6km9ZC_8yB2c3AAU97S9rSMS3gBqHm9HhOwDR1NJD68ZrJcpNLFGI-dhUfJRu7w8N01u3Y-oZyxrGB45T4hVlVvSZWb2NwzZGn-_RlWeAGre/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407788657605090690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ZdB5Bhyphenhyphen80_LHOsCYbD7E0zLMdwJ2-r9T6km9ZC_8yB2c3AAU97S9rSMS3gBqHm9HhOwDR1NJD68ZrJcpNLFGI-dhUfJRu7w8N01u3Y-oZyxrGB45T4hVlVvSZWb2NwzZGn-_RlWeAGre/s320/007.JPG" /></a> When I was young and living at home, my father found a lump of stone with some sort of inscription on it. We could work out some of the words but not many and in those days there was no such thing as 'Google'. I don't remember whether it took months or years but eventually we worked out that it was the above poem. I found this X stitch kit and so have made it for my Mother. It was supposed to be her Birthday present but I did not finish it so it is now for her Christmas present. I finished the Xstitch ages ago but hate the back stitch bit so it got left in a bag. Last night I decided I would not go to bed till it was finished and here it is.<br /><div><div> </div><div> </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407788650086096626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgr_91uEt6U9RtiADPCtspyeIiUHdwIbAQgrCI8Y-1wSkhsH5Tajp8spiZn0JSUN7WDDTZf9RUebsLfGpf1R4mKu-5KZuRidiHrFhiudeTj3q2wBkCUEoETiiuhemHtD0kfscnHV6yGuK/s320/004.JPG" /></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407788644164182850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJQbavORuhv48ip2C_kVDUd1Th4fJH9OeeiakP2bqofBWr4E71ID0d5WaL3O5LBwWtedZY2p0tQx__0OYPU_WNJBOjIF2ZNYRqZMfDDVr6EXrwvToZG2AWBNLBLZBMewQfOlJlyEjBQqt/s320/001.JPG" /></div><div><br /><br />This weekend was also an outing for my spinning wheel. I bought this fibre in New Zealand when I went there last spring. It is Ashford's merino/silk blend and is wonderful to spin. I spun 100 gms and got 266 metres from it which is my best effort yet. I think it is destined to become a triangular scarf.</div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-81355341941646757592009-11-22T11:24:00.006+00:002009-11-22T11:54:38.393+00:00Sunday !After a difficult week at work where one of my patients was tasared in the back of the ambulance, frightening me as much as the patient, I am having a 'me' day. The weather is awful, wet and windy so I am having a day pottering around, watching cricket,knitting and spinning.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406889924271292434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEda0Qv7ZnYGsPZ4g91wEzFSo7X5OPNrHlIYdyuH0pgMjZ-i7v7td6VY9Qe-zn1o8fsGb7rEoIm4saBnAzvxuUe-hwGy_okugFaY6fviS7O8SauvAZLRxqLV8maikMNM1hvEOdMKgfacp/s320/008.JPG" /> This is the view from my craft room. The tree opposite is a copper beech and at this time of year it catches the smallest amount of sunlight and shines beautifully. I love all the trees that surround us but at this time of year they become a nuisance as the fallen leaves keep blocking the road drain outside our house and the water runs down the drive and floods our back yard. I spent a whole morning clearing up and a couple of hours later it was just as bad again.<br /><div><br /><div><br /><div> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406889952971381282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8ZwJcaBbXQSI5y_-kHOXxjhIA9S1o4YN2CRt5IEw4NY_wGT2MBZh-frEsiXB7apPvpZdEpmVZPpmG-MO5Ey9SxA-keiWoK3VIvp17GdZLyFDbx_mgqV48QuB3ZNxspV1q4Cz73QZ4sL-/s320/006.JPG" />On the knitting front I have -as usual- several projects on the go at once. I am unable to sit and knit at one thing, I have them all surrounding me and I pick up and put down at random intervals. This is a second attempt at a glove - the first was far too small and the stitch pattern does not allow for any 'give'. I am loving knitting it although the fingers are very fiddly.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406889941345091394" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlQvRaaqplDCBXPby7WA6TmhnUr-IqA5DyBrmV7re1l0kXxEIUbNCAKTMroxeLA1uSgaZse9NkOBai125sHEGFsc-KEc2uoSBVdBRxK3cDGZ-OTxgIWDIreFxwWVlgDZN55Qjjwg_RcAb/s320/003.JPG" /><br />These are a 'finished' project - quite a rare thing in this house. I started them way back in the summer but they were knitting up too loosely so I frogged and started again. A very simple toe up, gusset heel pattern which knitted up very quickly and could be picked up and put down without losing my place.</div></div></div><br /><p> </p><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406889938779742146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqRiqrtcqGmpodpvfjevnAKYEfhNP1LeJWL9lRGKoJ7GpXyujirPuy4N3QIeP0Vek_40oWyp-MzTqZjWCsZs2JB6nGQaImcFFfpPSxtG2BcBse7WcgcdPAeZbA7qgVjRaIsAdft7M_A97C/s320/004.JPG" /></p><p>This is a project started a couple of years ago !!! It started life as a poncho with sleeves but is now going to be a jumper. I love modular knitting and this has an i cord celtic knot on the plain triangle but I did not like the idea of a poncho. Not sure why I started it really but I think it will work as a jumper - well I hope so - if not it will become and afghan! Watch this space !!</p><p>Off to knit and spin and see if England can bat well.</p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-10292618674818813852009-11-15T21:54:00.002+00:002009-11-15T22:04:37.150+00:00Walk and KnitThis is just experimenting to see if I can do photos any quicker and get them in the right place.<br /><div> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404452896922537026" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtNybsQpOR-D2mmgyMODn7O-kDUsQd9jb8EFWI98uZvackHPru1H_7tDqEMQCQX6mm3vTSV27XUcQL66jd_AGUABI5pC3QIAPifDqowXTcYVndoe_sKY76gwJdqwZm6eYXTW_S85oPs58/s320/005.JPG" />This was the continuation of my walk this morning, and as you can see, I was obsessed by the blue sky.I was trying to show here the beautiful tree colours against the sky.</div><div> </div><div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404452891775926450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWv_U2jWYkljIBngdEuhRyHfjP0-CcYrqUXo26vTT1FJ0qiu70qWeXyUlfwH5yL0Hl8ZUHqcTFIj_oeeOT2K1iK4O1advdGoz3glfOb3vMZNnGxns9XIEB0mPUiCIB720WweIlabpU83ec/s320/010.JPG" />This is the start of yet another knitting project. The blue, plain merino wool was bought for me 26 years ago by Roger. He was working in Denmark and thought it would be a lovely present for me. I loved it but did not know what to knit. I kept getting it out, admiring it but then would put<br /><div>it away again. I didn't want to make socks but couldn't imagine me in a jumper in it. Finally today I saw a pattern I liked and cast on. The other yarn that goes with it is Drops Fabel and as you can see it is multi coloured.</div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-44973102235221012802009-11-15T20:41:00.015+00:002009-11-15T21:36:29.527+00:00Local WalkI have decided that the reason that I use this blog less than I should is because I like blogs with photos in and I take so long to put photos here from my camera. Today though was such a beautiful day and I have been stuck inside because of horrible weather and a bad cold/cough thing that I went for a walk along the canal with my camera.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404438504314425762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFPU3cPlhNTlz1VdGvwCUkSDSXd8lmgn90IVzx8d5sjvfZgvRKLs37BenKgSfPl_z2yc3htiyniC9PF5ZE9ygMtKsnXMlmifCdksQTfyuEb1IOPaWmCHcA3UvlEEu-LtrPa_QLbNwhZrHf/s200/001.JPG" />This is the picture as I set off from home and it shows how</div><div>close the river is. My house is next to this one. </div>I couldn't believe how blue the sky was after yesterday.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404440191087506146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZr5ssrNU2GhO1k4He-mBEop8f6gcm_qU2xW6uzu1Mft1G1NgVujbo8-ik7oqErmxxQ2gTZpmVjboAlQ4WRmRhVRag0C1E6owFQKjGcMNYtN09qNAo4ZzxbtWcoonwdZn6bDPT80oOa8q/s200/003.JPG" />This is looking towards Bath and is a hill called Brassknocker. </div><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404446286854654962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vUaMADT6i2PWNv0GqmvHvvw2v9PHuAEu1mOZFwcBdKQ5ypKEygFGxj4Qo7SQ7j2qPg3avoFIOgIuangAmR5tTkIbEkuv8yukhe-XzTRpmCCNrTCJZCROJqFjbiKHLgh1uBSAowKpF1GQ/s200/002.JPG" />And this is the local railway station- no longer a station but is lived in. You would not normally see the river in this view as it should be much lower but it is in flood at the moment.<br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 134px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404444227199304082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSCFJetD2jFxi5h6zLbC9_VZbFgcgpsZpy2WB28MAFG-BjQeLcx7w2BuuyVsItlGbO6_8xHBiEBdJpPW6lYNy9oJSFLWkNsnLxJZYKKLktXnW_LcTM3EAfRRNs5vP0bVOP7FAOlGilwP1/s200/006.JPG" /> This was on the way back to home and it is too small to see the village in the distance but it does show how blue the sky was for the whole walk.</p><p>I also did some knitting this afternoon but Photos will have to wait as it has taken me ages just to get this few in place!<br /><br /></p><p></p><br /><p></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-60974571266120137682009-01-04T17:15:00.006+00:002009-01-04T17:44:15.537+00:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcNPw14yss_SDfGNkSO9YicZn0P8-6UeTTVOsw0QxcN1IwNj6MxnOtwZt0RtfItPQNGbkGcV5mThUG7dpZ9JI2qCmZr5L4YNJj8asJ0RH-5vhs7rX380onvVnYrhpP3HISOoStstM156x/s1600-h/003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287489219710753218" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjcNPw14yss_SDfGNkSO9YicZn0P8-6UeTTVOsw0QxcN1IwNj6MxnOtwZt0RtfItPQNGbkGcV5mThUG7dpZ9JI2qCmZr5L4YNJj8asJ0RH-5vhs7rX380onvVnYrhpP3HISOoStstM156x/s200/003.JPG" border="0" /></a> New Year !<br />I belong to a group in Ravelry called 'The Yarn Yard' and one of the threads is 26 26. We are all trying to be more healthy and lose some weight. As part of this I am doing more exercise and this morning although it was -5 degrees we went for a walk. This is the tythe barn that was at the end of our walk. We walked along the canal tow path. We also walked along it yesterday and the weather was beautiful but I did not take my camera.<br /><br /><br />Another of my fitness drives is to use my rowing machine again and so far I have rowed each day. I used to row quite a lot but have lapsed somewhat. It is very frightening how quickly I have lost fitness. I used to row 10k or 30 minutes easily, now I am struggling with 20 minutes.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />These are a couple of finished articles. The green bear was a Christmas present<br />for the boy next door. It is sitting with the other bear I knitted.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakEPygLamYu9aXScN6fzPal-grbEjqGXyKH9YS0J0KP5ywaox5YOguQ4Fcikr2FCZQ2FD5xO4z3_t41038n-yoSj9hYG3V5s6uqTOVuZ4m_XMZCCldxppQHE_wEly7Mvp9nIb_IGZTrMB/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287492379479941746" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakEPygLamYu9aXScN6fzPal-grbEjqGXyKH9YS0J0KP5ywaox5YOguQ4Fcikr2FCZQ2FD5xO4z3_t41038n-yoSj9hYG3V5s6uqTOVuZ4m_XMZCCldxppQHE_wEly7Mvp9nIb_IGZTrMB/s200/010.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The neck warmer is from a pattern in Knitty called Poinsettia but I used 4 ply yarn and added more stitches and more pattern<br />repeats.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8u4QjBo1bczmb9uZsh_0iU6ij3YK7awiiNIVO5L9P5wWq-424V1zstpnWG1sZLieXOGMAR3folq00FRHUQuSQ6S_5cEjXXu6wS-xOm-Irzz8EbteHhSCmbeR-eMdCI98vM7LzmgyHJ7G/s1600-h/008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287489205512225122" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8u4QjBo1bczmb9uZsh_0iU6ij3YK7awiiNIVO5L9P5wWq-424V1zstpnWG1sZLieXOGMAR3folq00FRHUQuSQ6S_5cEjXXu6wS-xOm-Irzz8EbteHhSCmbeR-eMdCI98vM7LzmgyHJ7G/s200/008.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I am now knitting an afghan for my son and his girlfriend and still plodding on with the 'big' sweater. I also have to finish some fingerless mitts. There are also lots of other UFO's but they will be done later !!!!Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-33482927779251256692008-12-14T09:54:00.007+00:002008-12-14T10:30:06.665+00:00That time of year again !!Floods!!! Not really expected this time and not much warning. I was working Friday night and it rained all night and it was difficult driving but the amount of flooding Saturday morning was a surprise.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfMvkKNFgaoL2ST9JyuZoS5Dqfc5lzfmZIJF6I8u5s9Do-tXu5FS8L9NPWvRnUZyak2Q1_P3PZrbc1VrZfvGfv-70Wfs0bcDVOvIaDMBo_rwNTfMPDaErKDCC4nyMyT6wh-1caDznZQEP/s1600-h/FO'S+December+001.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279584333385060946" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfMvkKNFgaoL2ST9JyuZoS5Dqfc5lzfmZIJF6I8u5s9Do-tXu5FS8L9NPWvRnUZyak2Q1_P3PZrbc1VrZfvGfv-70Wfs0bcDVOvIaDMBo_rwNTfMPDaErKDCC4nyMyT6wh-1caDznZQEP/s200/FO'S+December+001.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtVez53LjV4YhRaKUe_Tw3IwSNs3HDCr7Jivyv4iCfBz0pgIlCLJ3vMdceH15qMaqRNUWIhH8ZZpkhD6YplYKy_PXAsvFaZ3CnDQGAQ3OumvUr1TyHjfpGjJGUj9OvnoC8YlQ4d6gXHXS/s1600-h/FO'S+December+004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279584339363510802" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrtVez53LjV4YhRaKUe_Tw3IwSNs3HDCr7Jivyv4iCfBz0pgIlCLJ3vMdceH15qMaqRNUWIhH8ZZpkhD6YplYKy_PXAsvFaZ3CnDQGAQ3OumvUr1TyHjfpGjJGUj9OvnoC8YlQ4d6gXHXS/s200/FO'S+December+004.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Here are two pictures taken this morning after the floods have receded quite a bit. The first one is looking up the garden towards the house and the second one is of newly finished Carolus bear sitting next to my greenhouse.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsqeiC2CX1n6QgRrmVLaOfJB_JLP6XAI0bsE5BKCW91YWq0aOme-G38-QewCzX8ZKQPeqcLL78pPnCvLy6PQloM6oISOSp4P9Q44mojhdwM2BlLMIBFqj16W1_pApVcs96sbGtJcaWhog/s1600-h/FO'S+December+005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279584339717427442" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsqeiC2CX1n6QgRrmVLaOfJB_JLP6XAI0bsE5BKCW91YWq0aOme-G38-QewCzX8ZKQPeqcLL78pPnCvLy6PQloM6oISOSp4P9Q44mojhdwM2BlLMIBFqj16W1_pApVcs96sbGtJcaWhog/s200/FO'S+December+005.JPG" border="0" /></a> <br />This is the corner of my fishpond. In the winter we put a heater in it to stop it from freezing. You can see the fish 'sitting' next to it. This always makes me wonder about the way we treat fish. When we put them in a new place,we sit them in a bag or dish of water in the pond and let the temperature equal up. Apparently fish do not like sudden changes of temperature. Well these fish obviously do not mind because they swim from on top of the heater to the furthest end of the pond where there is a significant temperature drop.<br /><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEoXWLelKNj5dDLfYL5kYPln6i7Ep1mtxLVg1_Ur8nmAhq-bSSJ4Rsh8WOtZhgRJdzCEJQAYQTHLRh8SIix3OomgOymNI_3gkChi7SF8w4Qt8GnP-a7bCgUCNr3k-lMhdvDedY6Yd5-2Y/s1600-h/FO'S+December+010.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279584349177505106" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEoXWLelKNj5dDLfYL5kYPln6i7Ep1mtxLVg1_Ur8nmAhq-bSSJ4Rsh8WOtZhgRJdzCEJQAYQTHLRh8SIix3OomgOymNI_3gkChi7SF8w4Qt8GnP-a7bCgUCNr3k-lMhdvDedY6Yd5-2Y/s200/FO'S+December+010.JPG" border="0" /></a>I have been busy knitting. I am trying to knit my husband a replacement jumper for his 'favourite'. I knitted him a plain grey mottled sweater when we first met and he still wears it. It is so thin there are more holes than stitches [it is 26 years old]so I have decided to knit another. I am doing a top down raglan and it is taking forever. I am doing the chest now so it is a bit quicker but is still 48" around.</div><div> </div><div>This picture is of some dorm boots I knitted for next door. A bit of a cheat really. She wanted socks for her cold feet but as time is very limited I plied together 12 strands of yarn from my machine knitting days and knitted these. A very quick knit [4 hours] and surprisingly comfortable. I will do a pair for me sometime.</div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279584344468225842" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s200/FO'S+December+007.JPG" border="0" /></a></div></div><div> </div><div>Another finished object and one in progress. This is Carolus Bear. I knitted him tightly and filled him with wheat. It makes him like a bean bag so he sits but I also hope that I can use him as a handwarmer by putting him in the microwave. I found the pattern on Ravelry and he is a delight to knit. </div><div> </div><div>Behind the bear is the start of a knitted Christmas decoration. I visited the American Museum [just outside Bath] the other day to see the Christmas display. It was a little disappointing but I did find a 'knitted paper chain' in the quilt room. It is a very simple idea of garter stitch strips sewn together just like we used to make paper chains. It looks very effective and the strips can be knitted from any oddments of yarn.</div><div> </div><div>I have a busy day planned - garden clearing when the floods have gone a bit more, baking, and room clearing of my sons bedroom ready for him to come home at Christmas. As he is away most of the time now it has become a craft cum dressing room for me! Christmas cards need to be written as well but I am cutting down on those and donating to charity instead. Natalie of 'The Yarn Yard' is asking people to donate each time they use a free knitting pattern. It is called p/hop which stands for pennies per hour of pleasure. I have donated instead of cards so I can spend more time knitting!</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br /> </div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgONfozBxcH1qhvKs3RDfnvGtacl3ujejMEw6AcM6dPwUz1QWE8FeVDeUb7QTzflRoZYzu50N3zx46JaOH5jsnkp-nzuAJbDxr9Mk8vQ5SM2kEL7-TF_MXR9F6CnZvxDNmImhujamUjbDQj/s1600-h/FO'S+December+007.JPG"></a> </div></div></div>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-26550695083881820922008-11-27T21:58:00.004+00:002008-11-27T22:18:40.144+00:00Finished ProjectsI have done so much I don't know where to start! I have visited the Isles Of Scilly for a long weekend, been on a spinning course (and bought a new wheel) and completed TWO projects.<br /><br /> The Scillies were beautiful. We were staying on St Agnes and the weather was beautiful. The cottage had views of the sea so inbetween walking, I sat and knitted while watching the sea.<br /><br /> I really enjoyed my spinning course at Wingham Wools. There were four of us on the course and I learned a lot. I trialled a Kromski Sonata and then bought it!! I much prefer the double treadle and it is a very easy wheel to spin on. I can now produce something that looks as if it could actually be knitted : ).<br /><br /> I have also started and finished two (very simple ) projects. The first is a set of wrist warmers for a driend of mine who has just got a new dog and her hands got cold while walking it.<br /> <br /><br /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273460814809849538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPxsSu1av06RRrwQea7MC24YiTPICFu9aRM-GnwsdF-ymw0dC-6pGv32kqcm09AoLLFubtK1FnMF_XnqJVwDqnkLgizQYu1eLntd_dxr6DnhMqKhSSxxWF3RQemtVef0NeCsXrVGQ5sR71/s320/017.JPG" border="0" /><br /> I designed them myself and am quite pleased with the result. They need some slight mods before I knit them again - I would like the 'spirals' to link with the rib better and I would like to make a mirror pair instead of two the same.<br /><br /> I also knitted an alpaca hat for another friend of mine. This is taken from <a href="http://www.aestheticentanglementz.blogspot.com/">www.aestheticentanglementz.blogspot.com</a> and is called Tweedy Cabled Cap. It was good fun to knit and I love the way the cable makes the brim.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273460806255109970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rc6-h4dPPQxABITwTxZB_BI5nBBGIBC6W-f3zREiMgsi-Lu-BwyHByoDLkrIFLiVS7ngqywLLiGul_uRyInWVKdJ9C0C3IRLUDCsRMSxPz3KNY-DdZ0r9Wt3TsHMXnAix8oYWFqSIOks/s320/006.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /> I am now trying to finish a scarf for my son's girlfriend and a sweater for my husband. The sweater is to replace one I knitted 26 years ago and which is soo thin now it is see through. It is just a plain one but I am knitting a top down raglan and as he needs it to be a 48 inch chest it is taking ages to get once round!! It will get quicker once I get passed the shoulders and down on to the body.Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-15477368107638264462008-10-13T19:42:00.003+01:002008-10-13T19:58:29.733+01:00Off Campervanning.<div>I have just finished my set of shifts and am not due back at work till Friday, so we are off to mid Wales in the Camper Van. </div><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5256711708282700962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZsB-sh4uwZss8Q93WKcxw5CnRxLMRlJq7YMkZFNb_WIfsQJ2Pwx5a4e25AyH5NkiA98LVZQ-jiYCKSVESWoIaZWR9TSHSkbttvdxvFjBenlSKoWVjl0DB59KP0LBSDHchALP1_bFRcLjZ/s320/summer+various+020.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>This is it, on the site where we are going. Rhandirmwyn. (Not sure if the spelling is correct.) This afternoon was spent washing it and filling water tanks. I have also been deciding on 'projects' to take. I have decided on my modular jumper, my toe up socks and some fibre and a spindle. </p><p>The campsite has no mobile phone reception or television reception and the forecast is not good so I am looking forward to a 'crafting' time. I have planned a trip on Wednesday though. We are catching the train from Llandovery to Knighton where there is a wool shop. The train trip is supposed to be pretty and my Husband loves trains. </p><p>In between jobs this afternoon, I did manage some spindling. I plied some singles that I had spun on my wheel. They were spun straight fom a raw fleece and the result did look like yellow string. I have now skeined it and washed it and it is hanging to dry. It is fluffy and white now - an incredible transformation - but still a bit lumpy. I plan to knit diagonal garter stitch squares with all my trial spinning so I can make a blanket. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-1990937092455924742008-10-02T09:30:00.000+01:002008-10-08T09:55:56.662+01:00Clever - Not !I thought I would be clever the other day and I downloaded some photos for my blog, saved them in 'drafts' and then thought I would be able to write my blog at work. All seemed well, and I wrote my blog. I tried to save and then post it. The computer froze and then cleared the lot! I had managed to get a print off but as it was several days ago, I think the comments are probably<br /><br />irrelevant now!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252530316713913106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PjbLkpZcZkwwPOPnhSUms3WTcd9JqZaAm7MwvU90my2jonsbenZfY2qUC59cH2HFgwlq4oKGqyHfXsR2s6u3H97EpEtGxRuQNt862epGJzIT7w7dA0ko31jEtSz3Tq_YMFNB5XYyc4ey/s320/Knitting+003.JPG" border="0" /><br />I did decide that we would have a day out in Minehead last Sunday (one week ago now) as the forecast was good. We took our camper van and on the way down I managed to knit another square for my modular jumper. (have actually finished the squares now).This idea is from the book Second Thoughts and is a fun knit. Having finished the squares you pick up stitches and knit 'finishing bits'. I am using wool I found in a charity shop - two huge cones of natural coloured aran.<br /><br /><br /><br />I also made some progress with my wool from Natalie at 'The Yarn Yard'. This was going to be a sock but it is so pretty I think I will change it into gloves or fingerless mittens. I will make some increases for a thumb gusset and knit the hand and see how I get on.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252530310940302194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmZ6jlMJz6FZoPz7NamnbfIjLs1WYurgfD957QAHh6qyQWQhZzSKaOX4ISN1iAvjMfnpY2sWxOo3RiWDgak_OE5w-4VfyF9Binsl9MHGoIx1acXwWINjvhs4UuE2CSloxkLTFWlZuuRLs/s320/Knitting+002.JPG" border="0" /><br />I have a day off from work today so hope to get some knitting done and also I am expecting a parcel from The Yarn Yard with fibre as well as wool to knit. I have booked myself on a spinning course in November at Wingham Wool and they want me to take examples of my spinning, so I thought I had better have a go at some more fibre. I have been using fibre straight from the fleece but I am not very good yet.</p><br /><p><em>Just going to find my print off to see what else I wrote ............... I described the wool colour and stitch pattern so here goes ............</em></p><br /><p>The wool colour is called 'funghi' so I chose a stitch pattern that I thought looked like little toadstools and the wavy edge of some funghi. A colleague at work decided it looked like 'coral' both in colour and stitch pattern. I think both apply - now just got to find time to finish the item - whatever it turns out to be. </p><br /><p>The sun is shining so I had better get dressed and put the washing out and get busy! or just have another quick look at Ravelry .........................<br /></p>Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642504630157770010.post-69928555246887643822008-09-25T18:58:00.000+01:002008-09-25T19:43:08.303+01:00Busy Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ccztsxYj3KbcSanXoWrRe_ICGIhx96Z2hUcqgvpD4KesV60g48ENxQLMfIl9sIpIl_KkzTlpfYhk80tjTyFY4G-A1VsOOLJIv-z0D5aeXBDedom10ehxvPJF-PSSgLS4G44Ol2EJ8rtQ/s1600-h/Knitting+002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250025215667751970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ccztsxYj3KbcSanXoWrRe_ICGIhx96Z2hUcqgvpD4KesV60g48ENxQLMfIl9sIpIl_KkzTlpfYhk80tjTyFY4G-A1VsOOLJIv-z0D5aeXBDedom10ehxvPJF-PSSgLS4G44Ol2EJ8rtQ/s320/Knitting+002.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is a pile of my 'work socks' which have just been washed. I wear these socks with my uniform on the ambulance much to the amusement of my patients. I am not sure that management are all that keen though!. I tend to knit 4x1 rib in fairly thick wool as I wear boots for work.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKPMO_a8EtbeDENy1UBjOUWOZxcurmZKLXmk3aEa97EWH4wweRFJY7QKxHvkMSJ-oP5to1pkzy0RCUo9ho2iBzT4ioQfS4URxsTR3WaYKZ_5NhI5u3gHdorRxWbY3wq70aXX0ulii5F_RR/s1600-h/Knitting+004.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250025225472482802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKPMO_a8EtbeDENy1UBjOUWOZxcurmZKLXmk3aEa97EWH4wweRFJY7QKxHvkMSJ-oP5to1pkzy0RCUo9ho2iBzT4ioQfS4URxsTR3WaYKZ_5NhI5u3gHdorRxWbY3wq70aXX0ulii5F_RR/s320/Knitting+004.JPG" border="0" /></a> This is what I saw when I went across the road outside my house. I rather think this road might be closed soon due to road works.</p><br /><br /><p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWwXhug_cuQ9Dh47qwAG_R2IRUXcJfAQQiM2xC_qjwM7NKAe2Bsvyt6qe0gi2i11peZRhIH4lzUmbwZL2o29_If2xy_whRcuijSN0V5o0YmS0Zi7w6xbSllA-0RXvYrHyy5isP4if8UvB/s1600-h/Knitting+005.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250025233511129714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWwXhug_cuQ9Dh47qwAG_R2IRUXcJfAQQiM2xC_qjwM7NKAe2Bsvyt6qe0gi2i11peZRhIH4lzUmbwZL2o29_If2xy_whRcuijSN0V5o0YmS0Zi7w6xbSllA-0RXvYrHyy5isP4if8UvB/s320/Knitting+005.JPG" border="0" /></a> And this is what I saw when I walked down my garden - or tried to walk down! It is the remains of my son's tree house which he built in our neighbours garden with their son when they were both about 6. They are now 23 and are moving into a house together in London at the weekend. The apple tree that it was built in had some dead branches so we (my husband and me!) pruned the tree and pulled down the tree house. The pile is now reduced to small pieces ready to go in the log burner this winter.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250027846624485346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqBdS25HLOIhQS0Vi6rh__kpQEVclZJzYLLFD7PHbpyHGG4tuKzz7TgdTLW53mFJ8AwHlmO4kG1yrP39_nspaNR_mdU-1I60VwZ91HfWUuPm8OLKClOMp-rxR_XmOjBMGAc_Cmn5sVayyY/s320/Knitting+006.JPG" border="0" />A finshed (or 2 finished) object! These are Viking Socks from <a href="http://www.lykkeogloekker.blogspot.com/">http://www.lykkeogloekker.blogspot.com/</a> knitted in bright orange wool that I got from Natalie at The Yarn Yard. <a href="http://theyarnyard.co.uk/In">http://theyarnyard.co.uk/In</a> real life they are much brighter than this and I love them. I can now cast on a new pair as I promised myself that I would finish these first. Work tomorrow so need to cast on tonight and get them set up so I can work on them in my down time tomorrow.<br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250025239294516338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZWra4aPR6MwwgMrrrNiKhbU5cEEYIlZHqCkoCcgTPP-wfIRF7U8ji-KYmvizNKYo2eIalgr6EfYTFsaGPzz2xlRTFBKuKsi9YvWAuyU3ao8Ylsog3aFZsrLboiaFALRe2xGBsRW_KV1T/s320/Knitting+007.JPG" border="0" />Judyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18271707983395235184noreply@blogger.com1