CHALKY'S WORLD

A star choice not an understudy!

2012-01-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

I usually feature books I have enjoyed on my sidebar.

BUT

I enjoyed this one so much I thought it deserved a post all of it's own.

Recommendations about books and restaurants can be a bit of a dodgy area for me.

Recommendations about either can come unstuck.

I once had a restaurant recommended to me for a special anniversary and it is still the only time I have left after just the starters!

We ended up in MacDonalds|!!!

But I have a very dear "old " friend and I love her bookcase and when she says " I think you will like this one" she is nearly always right.

And When God Was a Rabbit was perfect for me.

It is Sarah Winman's first novel --- I hope she writes some more.

And like a good friend I will be returning the book as I hate it when my favourites go astray and I am robbed of the chance to revisit them!

Perhaps you will be inspired to have a read?

A woolly Oasis!

2012-01-26T02:52:00.000-08:00

Oasis

My personal oasis is generally connected to wool in one way or another and lately I have been spending my evening quietly hooking Granny Squares!

A brilliant anecdote to "Operation Broken House!"

My Dear Daughter In Law, Charlotte must have known I would need some woolly cuddles as well as this is the beautiful blanket she made me to celebrate William'' birth.

The photo does not even do it justice but it is certainly amazingly cuddly,calming and welcome right now!

This has to be the point of extremity!

2012-01-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

I googled the definition of extremity!

ex·trem·i·ty/ikˈstremitē/

Noun:

The furthest point or limit of something.

After a lovely few days in Bideford getting to know William I returned home to what I definitely think is our point of extremity with Operation Broken House.

I got my camera and you know what they say -- the camera never lies!

The house all wrapped and protected?

The first floor with the original upstairs back wall demolished.

The view out to the back garden from the first floor with the dining room ceiling removed!

The first floor.

The kitchen ceiling after it had a surprise visit from a lintel from upstairs. I am so glad I was not doing a spot of dusting in the kitchen!

In many ways the craziest picture of all.

The dining room where just a few short weeks ago we were celebrating Christmas!

The original wall between the back corridor and the shower room was load bearing but no longer so it has been demolished to create a new utilty room.

The view of the lounge door from the conservatory!

And the view to the first floor from the same spot!

The back garden

Now I have been told that is the last of the demolition and it certainly has been extreme enough for me.

So now Operation mended house can begin but there is a small matter of rather a large pile of rubble to deal with.

Patio anyone?

Two extremes in my life just now!

2012-01-20T10:32:00.000-08:00

Opposites and extremes!

I quite like juxtapositions.

Differences and changes.

The work on our house is moving forward at a cracking pace and the "Sporty One" describes it as a shambles!

But that shambles is an hour and a half away!

Today I have been just enjoying spending time with William.

Getting to know him.

Getting to understand his expressions,his noises, his movements, and my favourite, just getting to know his smell.

That yummy smell that babies have!

We went for a long walk together this afternoon whilst his mummy and daddy managed to catch up on some sleep!

Bideford was busy and we managed to walk for a good while and William slept for the whole time!

So he missed looking at the river.

The stunts in the skateboard park!

The lovely Museum and the Craft Display.

And a little wander around the shops.

It doesn't matter as I am sure we will go again when he is a bit bigger and he can see it all then!

Now it really is the best time -- a bath!

And snuggle up ready for bed!

And the best bit about being a Grandma is you don't get a wake up call for the night time snack!

The perfect start to my day!

2012-01-19T01:55:00.000-08:00

Perfect!

It has probably been 25 years since I had a tiny little one saying a very special "Good Morning" to me,before he drifted back into that wonderful Land of Nod.

It really was the perfect way to start my day.

I hope you have a lovely day too!

Absence from posting!

2012-01-17T06:55:00.000-08:00

Do you remember when you begged your Mum for a letter excusing you from P.E!

Or Was it just me?

Anyway I could do with a letter excusing me from posting on my blog just now.

BUT---

I think you will excuse me for a little while!

If you want to give your house a bright and breezy feel follow these 3 steps!

Or maybe not!

After all you could just open a window!

It may be a while before normal service is resumed in Chalky's World!

2012-01-09T03:43:00.000-08:00

Work In Progress and Buster is still confused!

The upstairs of the house after day 3!!

Not conducive to woolly restful pursuits just now!

So I am going back to me firt love.

My calming restful Granny Square!

But I am not working on them at home!

For a while!!

Buster is confused!

2012-01-05T05:03:00.000-08:00

A bit of chaos and Confusion!

Buster has only known our house to be complete and normal, a real home.

So today when he came to visit he was totally confused.

Everything has gone into storage after 25 years of life as we love it!

We are having a second floor extension built at the back of the house.

After a few years neglect and a few years gadding about the house is nearly grinding to a halt.

So this is the long awaited project for 2012!

Buster grabbed the last piece of carpet and just reflected,like me how things have been up until now.

The sledge hammers are ready,the scaffolding is up and the Conservatory is selling for 99p at the moment on Ebay!!

It will all be worth it Buster--- promise!

And the winner of my Giveaway is ---

2012-01-02T14:00:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for joining in the Giveaway here at

" Chalky's World!"

It was to celebrate having 100 wonderful followers!

Thank you to each and everyone of you who take the time to leave such supportive comments.

MoonstruckCreations!

I cheated a bit because "The Sporty One" and I were enjoying Morse so I asked him to choose a number from 1 to 15 and he said 14!

Moonstruck left the fourteenth comment so I am going to have a lovely wander around her lovely blog and think about what to send to her to celebrate being the winner!

Oh! And guess what whilst I have been busy packing up the house (another story I will blog about soon!) another 2 lovely followers have joined Chalky's World.

Thank you,every 102 of you!

Wooohhhhoooo!!! Whilst I was busy cuddling I reached 100 followers so it has to be a Giveaway !

2011-12-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

I have to admit to having been distracted by the most gorgeous bundle ever!

He has met all the family and been the star attraction at the Christmas celebrations.

Especially with his Great Grandma.

And I had not lost my touch!

But when I popped back in to "Chalky's World" I realised that I had hit the magical 100 followers!

Thank you so much to each and every one of you who have popped into my little bit of Blogland and left such kind,encouraging comments.

So now down to business -- I love a celebration so let's all celebrate the big 100 with a giveaway.

I have been so beautifully distracted I have no idea what it will be but please leave me a comment and I will get my thinking cap on!

Welcome to the world William Ivor Gilbert!

2011-12-23T14:54:00.000-08:00

William Ivor Gilbert---- weighed in at 9lbs 12ozs.

He arrived at 8.20 on the 19th December 2011!

Well, William every second of the wait has been worth it!

Just Perfect and both your Grandma and Grandad have fallen totally in love all over again.

Only this time -- just with you!

Waiting for the train! Only a little bit late so far!

2011-12-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

Well, we have arrived home and spent the day quietly preparing for Christmas.

The tree is ready except for one little, but very special new decoration!

A sweet little train I bought in Spain .

It is just waiting for a bright ribbon and our Grandson to be born.

Then it can be hung on the tree to remind us every year of his first Christmas.

We have had these little brass decorations for over twenty years but this one depicting Mary on the donkey making her way to Bethlehem where baby Jesus was born seems even more special this year!

Hasta Luego to Spain -- Teddy to go. Champagne to stay!!!

2011-12-16T08:13:00.000-08:00

It is time to go back to the UK for Christmas!

We fly home tomorrow the 17th.

A very significant day as our first Grandson is due tomorrow.

I think he is waiting until we arrive home before he makes his appearance!

So the Teddy is packed!

I was hoping to have raised a toast with the Champagne but that will have to stay in the fridge until our return as we only travel with hand luggage!

We will have to find another bottle to wet the baby's head when he decides to arrive!

A quick and pretty crochet garland.

2011-12-13T02:29:00.000-08:00

Sometimes----
Sometimes you just want a little hooky project!

Sometimes you want to make a special card filled with home made love!
Or a label for a home made gift.

Sometimes you want to to work an easy pattern and be able to adapt it.

And here is one I have enjoyed lately.

Ideal for the busy pre Christmas evenings.

Ideal for waiting to be a Grandma evenings!

Soothing and pretty!

Ideal to dress a little parcel with some chocolates tucked inside!

Perfect for a special card!

I have tried to contact the lady who first wrote this little Garland pattern but I am not sure how to send her a Private Message.

I hope she does not mind me writing about it on my blog.

I know she must be a lovely lady because she works hard for the Loving Hands Charity Knitting Group I like to support.

And you can ring the changes with little felt Christmas decorations!

Pattern.

Row 1. --Chain 15 and slip stitch to make a ring.

Row 2 --Chain 1 to represent the first double crochet. Work as many double crochet stitches into the ring to make it full.Slip stitch into stitch in initial chain to complete first round.

Row 3-- Chain 2 to represent the first half treble. Work 1 half treble in the top of each stitch from the first row and slip stitch into 2nd stitch in initial chain to complete the 2nd round.

Row 4 -- This is the frilly row which finishes the pretty garland off! It goes like this. Chain 5 miss 1 stitch and slip stitch into the next stitch. Chain 5 ,miss 1 stitch and slip stitch into the next stitch.

Complete the round in this way. I never worry too much about counting the stitches before I begin this final round as it all seems to work out jut fine. If you want to make a little hanging loop work 12-15 chain and slip stitch to join!

And just recently I was jogging around Ikea when I spied these gorgeous red ribbons and it got me thinking about jugs of holly and ivy and Snowflakes and Garlands.
So a quick refreshing look at the pretty Crochet Snowflake pattern at lovely Lucy's Attic.
And here they are an assortment of snowflakes and garlands all beribboned and ready to hang when we get home.

Single Snowflakes.

Double Snowflakes!

Garlands with bells!

I hope you find time to have a little hookiness!
And as always plaese email me if you have any problems with the pattern!

A simple baby mitten pattern and no sign of the kittens!

2011-12-09T12:35:00.000-08:00

Mittens!

So many years spent with the "littlies" has left me with songs and rhymes in my mind!

This week I wanted to knit some very simple baby mittens

As simple as can be!

So I decided to make up my own pattern and here they are!

Sweet in minty green!

A little bit of seed stitch to add some texture!

And a final pair in grey.

In case you want to make a pair or two here is the pattern -- it is so quick and easy and perfect for cold little fingers!

Using 3.25 and 4.00 mm needles and Double Knitting wool.

Cast on 24 stitches using 3.25 mm needles and work 10 rows of Knit1,Purl 1 rib.

Change to 4mm needles and knit 10 rows in stocking stitch. 1 row knit,1 row purl.

Shaping--- Starting with a knit row

1st Row--- Knit first 2 stitches together through back of stitches. Knit 8 stitches Knit 2 stitches together.Knit 2 stitches together through back of stitches. Knit 8 stitches. Knit last 2 stitches together.(20 stitches)

2nd Row--- Purl.

3rd Row---Knit first 2 stitches together through back of stitches. Knit 6 stitches. Knit 2 stitches together,knit 2 stitches together through back of stitches,knit 6 stitches,Knit last 2 stitches together (16 stitches)

4th Row---Purl.
5th Row--Knit first 2 stitches together through back of stitches. Knit 4 stitches Knit 2 stitches together. Knit 2 stitches through back of stitches Knit last 2 stitches together (12 stitches)
6th Row -- Knit first 2 stitches through back of stitches. Knit 2 stitches. Knit 2 stitches together .Knit 2 stitches through back of stitches. Knit last 2 stitches together. (8 stitches)

This method of working both through the back and front of the stitches gives a very neat shaping to the mitten.

Thread yarn onto a needle and thread through the remaining 8 stitches and pull up tightly. Fold mittens in half and sew side seam.

To make the little mittens with seed stitch work the stocking stitch rows as follows--

Row 1 -- Knit 1, purl 1

Row 2--- Purl1,knit 1

Continue in this way shaping as previously keeping the seed pattern correct (as much as possible!) on the decrease rows.

If you have any problems please email me!

The Mad Hatter!!

2011-12-06T13:55:00.000-08:00

I definitely know I can be obsessive!

There have been hedgehogs, bibs, bunting, birds and now I am definitely getting a bit obsessed about--

HATS!

Little tiny ones!

Our Spanish plumber and his wife welcomed their first Grandchild into the world two weeks ago
.But,she was in far too much of a rush to meet everyone and weighed in at 850 grams!!!!!

So, out came my needles and these little hats are on their way to little baby Luna!

I have made these hats for all the little babies joining our family this year.

And then it was time to move onto bigger things!

This one needed a makeover!

I always rely on my Crochet hook!

And then, before I left home I was asked for a special hat.

No pressure as the request was accompanied by these words--

" It's all I want for Christmas!"

So I have made these ---

I can feel a hat party coming on!

I think I will have to have a pile in the middle of the floor and play musical hats until everyone tries on one that they like and want to keep!

I wonder if it will be this one?

In case you want to make this super quick one here is the pattern-- Thanks to Jacqui who gave it to me.

6.5mm needles

cast on 60 stitches

rows 1-10 knit

row 11 - knit

Row 12 - purl

Rows 13 - 28 stocking stitch

Row 29 - Knit 4, k2tog across row (50 stitches)

Row 30 purl

row 31 - knit

row 32 - purl

row 33 - knit 3, k2tog across row (40 stitches)

row 34 - purl

row 35 - knit

row 36 - purl

row 37 - knit 2, k2tog across row (30 stitches)

row 38 - purl

row 39 - knit

row 40 - purl

row 41 - knit 1, k2tog across row (20 stitches)

row 42 - purl

row 43 - knit 2 tog across row (10 stitches)

row 44 - purl

row 45 - knit 2 tog across row (5 stitches)

draw up and sew seam

Or maybe this one?
This is the same pattern but I added a textured effect by mixing Stocking and Garter stitch.

Or this one!
I cast on the 60 stitches but worked the hat in rib.
2 knit, 2 Purl.

Or one with a bit of a twist!
A Spiral patterned hat.
Cast on 60 stitches and garter stitch Row 1 and 2
Then work like this
Knit 2 stitches together at the beginning of the next row.Knit to the last stitch make 1 stitch then knit the last stitch.
Knit 1 row.
Repeat these 2 rows until the hat is large enough for your head.
Decrease in the same way as the original pattern and sew 1 end of the spiral tightly and I like to crochet 1 row of Double Crochet on the other end which gives a neat finish.

And one for me for the cold days back in the UK!

And of course one for the "Sporty One!"

Super Chunky wool and this pattern --
Just make the ribbing part to fit and then decrease by knitting 2 stitches together on the next few rows until you have about 10 stitches to pull up and sew seam.

The good thing is that the others will be perfect for the " Hats for Homeless" project!
And a word of warning these obsessions are definitely catching!
Look what my dear Mother -In - Law who is 81 has been doing!

Over 100 hats for premature babies!
Who on earth would want to find a cure for this obsession!

My final woolly exploit until the Baby is born!

2011-12-05T06:21:00.000-08:00

Last night our son and daughter - in -law skyped us and there is certainly some practising going on by Baby Gilberto.

And he carried on flexing his muscles all night!

I remember the last few weeks of labour very well --- The ultimate waiting game!

So,I decided to be one step ahead and got this little fellow finished!

Maybe he will be called Sticklebrick to remind them of their waiting gmae.

It sounds as if we will not have too long to wait to find out what our Grandson is to be called!

Thirteen and patiently counting!

2011-12-04T07:18:00.000-08:00

One little job today !

A different kind of Advent Countdown --- 14 days to go!

2011-12-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

14 Days and Counting!

We are all patiently waiting for little Gilberto to arrive.

Of course his Mummy and Daddy are getting a little tired of waiting!

This is how I spent day 14 of the final countdown to his due date!

These are a few of my favourite things! Memories of Grandma x

2011-12-01T05:07:00.000-08:00

Memories and baking!

My Maternal Grandma was a farmers wife and a wonderful cook!

As I have said before she taught me everything I know about Crafting!

She was born in 1900 and her birthday was on the 5th of December.

So, of course I am thinking of her as a new month begins!

She ALWAYS had a cake in the tin, biscuits in the jar and a pie or pasty in the pantry!

So this morning I remembered her biscuits and found the old recipe!

I so remember being allowed to do the rolling and cutting but not the watching in the oven as I was such a daydreamer they would burn!!

Here is her recipe and it makes so many biscuits!

8 ounces of butter softened-- no Margarine was allowed near her baking!

5 Ounces of caster sugar.

1 Egg Yolk

10 ounces of Plain Flour!

Mix the butter and sugar with a wooden spoon until creamy. Add the egg yolk and mix well.Add sieved flour and mix well

Roll til required thickness and cook in the oven for 15 minutes or until pale golden. Re-roll scraps to get the maximum amount of yummy biscuits!

The oven today would need to be 160 degrees.

I guess you could add all sorts of flavourings but this was the recipe Grandma used.

Enough for us.

One for Salome,the little Spanish girl who lives next door.

And enough for a little gift!

Something else she taught me was never to have the oven on for just one thing so next to the biscuit recipe was her recipe for a Boil and Bake Cake!

1 Cup of water

4 ounces of Butter

1 tablespoon of syrup

2 Cups of dried fruit.

1 teaspoon of mixed spice.

1 teaspoon of Bicarbonate of Soda.

3/4 cup of sugar.

Boil all these ingredients for 5 minutes.

Cool the mixture

Add

1 beaten egg

2 cups of Self Raising Flour

Bake for approximately 1 and a quarter hours in a Moderate oven -- 160 degrees.

Or until a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Wow! The house smelt lovely and it was so easy to remember Grandma as I was baking.

Wouldn't it be lovely if you could just have them back for an hour or two and have a little walk down Memory Lane together!

It's Great being a Great Auntie!

2011-11-28T07:31:00.000-08:00

I am lucky enough to have 7 Great Nieces and Nephews but soon there will be ----

And the little one's Mummy thinks it is going to be a boy!

It is due in January -- not very long after little Gilberto.

So I had a break from dreaming about our Grandson's arrival, and had a little think about a Brand New Great Nephew!

A blanket big enough for a car seat or cuddle on cold January days when he is saying "Hello" to the world!

I love this pattern and have used it many times

If you want to enjoy it too here it is---

And if you are worrying it might be a little girl it looks just as pretty in pink!

Size 4.00 hook

I worked with Stylecraft Double Knitting yarn as it is so easy to wash and use.

Row 1: Ch 126, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across.

Row 2: Ch 1 turn, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc) in 1st sc, *Skip 3 sc, (sc, ch 3, 3dc) in next sc, Rep* across to last 4 sc, skip next 3 sc, sc in lastsc. (31 shells complete across)

Row 3: Ch 3 turn, 3 dc in 1st sc, (sc, ch 3, 3 dc) in each chain space across. ending with sc in last space

Repeat row 3 approximately 55 rows or to whatever size blankie you require.

Last Row: Ch 3 turn, 2 sc in ch-sp, *sc in sc, sc in next dc, skipnext dc, sc in next dc, sc in next ch-sp. Repeat from * across tolast shell, do not skip middle dc of last shell. (123 sc across)

Trim

Working in Rounds

Rnd 1: Ch 1 turn, 3 sc in 1st sc, [ *sc in each sc, rep *across, 3sc in last sc, * (3 sc in ch-sp, sc in sc) rep * across, working infree loops of beginning chain, 3 sc in 1st ch, sc in each chacross,] 3 sc in last, Rep * around, last round rep between [ ] .sl st to 1st sc, (changing

colors here if using contrasting colors)

Rnd 2-3: With white, ch 1, sc around with 3 sc in corners, sl st.

Rnd 4: Ch 2, do not turn, *skip sc, sc, ch 2, rep * around sl st in1st sc.

Rnd 5: Ch 1, turn, sc in sl st, *sc in ch-sp, sc in sc around with 3sc in corners. Rep * around.

Rnd 6: Ch 1, turn, *(sc, ch 3, 3 dc) skip 3 sc, rep * around sl st to1st sc. Finish Off

If you have any problems please email me and I will be only too glad to help

A Special Commission - A Stocking for Isla!

2011-11-24T06:41:00.000-08:00

What a Cutie!

And a special stocking has been requested by her Mummy and Daddy!

It seems only a moment ago I was busy making these little puppies for their wedding.

They were stars of the show for the "littlies" at their wedding!

It is Isla's first Christmas and they wanted a special stocking that will become interwoven with her childhood memories of Christmas!

Now, in Spain, especially in the rural area where we live finding the materials to make a special stocking was quite a challenge.

Friends had no red material in their stash and the market had nothing Christmassy yet!

But, I was not going to give up and suddenly I remembered I had bought a bright red jumper out with the intention of trying my hand at felting!

Well it really was a case of "Let's give it a go!"

I wanted to make a big stocking as I know how frustrating it is trying to squash everything in a tiny one!

So.

Can you see the jumper. I wanted the top of the stocking to have the rib as part of the decoration.

All cut out.

And, I like the garter stitch side for projects like this because I think it looks more kind of Shabbly Chic.

I had so much fun making it I actually did not take any more photos until the end. I somehow felt I was on a total roll, which was a great relief as I want to pop it in the post to the UK as soon as possible.

So let's have a look at the different parts of the stocking!

Crochet Snowflakes. My take on the ones by the lovely Lucy at Attic 24.

"Isla! " worked in Binca with a plaited border.

And my favourite bit. Three Twirly Whirlies worked in the colours of Christmas

and a bell added to top it off!

The " Sporty One "says this is a big mistake as it will wake little Isla up as it is filled by Father Christmas!

He may be right but it does look really pretty.

A little Crochet heart because she is so special and a reminder that this stocking was made with lots of love just for her!

And here we have it.

Hung on the bedpost and looking ready for the magic to begin!

Oh! I forgot to show you one thing.

I lined it with a stripey candy cane material.

Just in case there is something heavy to go inside and the date to remind her of her First Christmas!

I hope a satsuma fills the toe!

A gorgeous bouquet for the special little lady in your life!

2011-11-22T07:51:00.000-08:00

Every girl loves flowers!

But here we have a bouquet with a difference!

A bouquet made of socks!

Can you see them tucked amongst some artificial daisies?

All wrapped and ribboned and just waiting to be delivered!

So if you want to make a sock bouquet for someone special have a look here and have some fun!

I put a little label with a warning about the sticks holding the flowers just in case little fingers get inquisitive!

Just quietly hooking !!

2011-11-20T02:56:00.000-08:00

Calming, addictive and I love them!

The "Sporty One" turns all Cheffy!

2011-11-17T10:30:00.000-08:00

Sadly the "Sporty One" has a bad back!

But, every cloud has a silver lining and to prevent "Stir Craziness" setting in he has decided to take over the cooking this Autumn in Spain!

Thank you to all the blokes on Masterchef!

Cooking can be very manly!

The meals have been great and now we have moved into a new realm of yummyness!

Preserving.

Sporty Oven Dried Tomatoes!

Cut ripe tomatoes in half.

Chop 4 cloves of garlic and put on top of the tomatoes

Sprinkle with sea salt,pepper and dried Basil.

Place in a warm oven - 90 degrees Centigrade and leave for 5 hours.

The house smelled delicious.

And they looked gorgeous when they came out!

Pack in jars with some sprigs of fresh Thyme and top up with good quality Olive Oil.

This of course will not be wasted because apart from preserving the tomatoes the oil will be delicious to cook with afterwards.

Tart it all up with a gingham cover and label!

Actually the "Sporty One" was not a bit interested in this bit.

I was allowed to add the totally unnecessary trimmings

Well it has to be done for "Chalky's World!"

Now we can't wait to try them!

Sometimes making up your own patterns is NOT such a good idea!

2011-11-16T11:37:00.000-08:00

A Definite Thumbs down for this "little" creation!

I was trying to be kind to the "Sporty One " by creating a nice cosy hat to keep him warm in January and February!

Sometimes making up your own patterns is really NOT a good idea!

I am off to get my trusty crochet hook to try and rescue this creation but I can guarantee the " Sporty One " wont be wearing it!
Well a few rows of single Crochet later there is a definite improvement!#

Now Girlie and a slouchy type hat!
What do you think?

Do You Fancy a Twirl?

2011-11-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

Curly Wurlies

When I was a little girl and I had a new dress my dearest Stepdad would say

"Give us a Twirl then!"

And, he always paid me just the right compliments even if he thought the creation hideous!

What a gem!

So these remind me of him!

I hope you find them as much fun as me.

Chain -- as many as you like.

I worked 20.

Turn,working back along your foundation chain row.

In every chain stitch work 2 trebles..

40 trebles in total!

I am holding all those trebles to attention!

Can you see the pattern -- 2 treble crochet stitches in each chain space.

Now it is time to relax and let the fun begin!

Let's have a twirl!

Tie the ends to neaten the twirls!

Ideal little projects for charity fairs.

Key rings,with colours to complement each person.

Or, if you fancy something really special--
What an amazing edging to a blanket!

What an amazing blanket my Dear Daughter In law has crafted!
Just now my little Grandson is popping into every corner of my mind --- and he is not even born yet!!

But what a wonderful curly whirly blanket is waiting to greet him!

LONG HAUL WITH A GRANNY! A TUTORIAL FOR A SUNBURST SQUARE

2011-11-10T05:21:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you do get the feeling that you do need to try something new!

A BIG project that will last a while and make you feel you have been on a long journey together.

A challenge and a commitment,.
Actually it results in one heck of a lot of sewing in woolly ends!

But, I am literally hooked!
I have seen these gorgeous Granny Circles that transform themselves into squares.

Well everything in my mind seems to be manifesting itself in shades of blue right now----
Only 5 weeks until our little Grandson is due to arrive in the world!
Now, as I have said before his lovely Mummy is busy making lovely snuggly blankets just for him.
Have a look here
So, although this is not for him, I seem to be seriously absorbed with all things blue!

I like this wool from Stylecraft.
It is soft yet hard wearing and nice to work with.
I had a look at a lot of patterns for these little squares but decided to just devise my own.
So here goes----
Abbreviations.---- htc. Yarn over hook.Hook through space pull loop through.you should have 3 loops on your hook.Yarn over hook and pull through all 3 loops on your hook. You have completed your
half treble crochet stitch

Here are a few pictures to help-- I hope!

Round 1. Chain 3 and join with a slip stitch to make a loop.

Round 2. Chain 2 .This represents 1 half treble crochet.Work 11 more half treble crochet stitches in the central space. You have 12 half trebles in all.

Round 3 - Work 2 htc in each space and join the round in your beginning chain stitch..You should have 12 clusters of 2 htc-- 24 stitches in total.

Next the pretty little circle is going to start its metamorphosis to a square!

Round 4. 2 chain (theses stitches at the beginning of a round always equate to your first hdc) .1 htc, 1 chain, 2 htc. This forms your first corner. Work 2 htc in the next 2 spaces and then work your 2nd corner. Work 2 htc in next 2 spaces and then work your 3rd corner and complete your round with 2 htc. Slip stitch in the top chain stitch.

Round 5 and 6.. Work the last 2 rounds in exactly the same way as round 3 but work 3 and then 4 clusters of htc between each corner.

I wanted to join the little squares as I progressed. I joined them with a ridge to add texture to the design.

This can be achieved by placing the wrong sides of the squares facing hook through the edges with a double crochet stitch.

This gives you this extra effect!

TOP TIPS

Sew in the ends of your wool as you complete each square. I can not imagine what a chore it would be to have them all to do at the end of your project.

Give your squares a good pull to make sure they are a good square shape.

By working with 2 balls of Navy and starting with a corner in your last round you can save joining the wool every time you want to add a square!
This will click once you start!

So where am I now on my journey?

I am not always committed to a "long journey!"
But, I thought " Am I fed up?
"Shall I turn it into a cushion cover?"
No!
I am going for a Lappycuddlyghan at the very least!
I hope you are inspired to try my version of the Granny Sunburst!

An Unusual Birthday Greeting Card. Perfect for the "Sporty One!"

2011-11-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

A special Birthday on November the 5th!

My dear husband has a birthday on Bonfire Night.

He has a really soft spot for Fireworks and has very happy memories of his childhood parties which always involved a big Bonfire and lots of fireworks!

When we are in Spain for his birthday there are no fireworks and he has given up hoping there may even be the odd Rocket or Catherine wheel!

So this year I decided to redress the balance a bit by making him a special card!

Here is the end result.

I tucked this inside to send lots of love to him on his special day.

A little box in the shape of a cascade firework -- my favourite.

Pretty colours and no bangs!

In actual fact this idea could be adapted for wedding favours,gift boxes or anything else that takes your fancy!

It is easy to download a pattern.

Cut out the shape.

Crease and fold and send with lots of love.

He loved it!

A New Bag! Maybe the Perfect Present. I Hope So!

2011-11-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

My own Creation!

Loving Granny Squares of course.

I wrote a tutorial for this bag here--

http://chalkygilbert.blogspot.com/2011/05/project-just-for-me-how-to-transform.html

Well a dear friend saw it last week and simply loved it, apart from the handles.

She loves shoulder bags.

Well after she left I got hooky and created the perfect Christmas present just for her.

A new bag,almost the same but I added a little touch of lilac.

One of her favourite colours.

I made the straps long enough for a shoulder bag.

And, because It is for a present I managed to find the perfect material to make a lining!

My friend would thoroughly approve.

The lining from a dress I no longer wear!

So now I just have to wrap it up and hope she loves it!

One Square can send your love all the way to Japan!

2011-11-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

Disasters are terrible things and perhaps only stay in the Headlines for a short while!

The Earthquake in Japan.

Some of my lovely followers may remember we went to Japan earlier this year and eleven days after our return disaster struck!

I wrote about it in this post!

Some time afterwards I was doing a little "Blog Hopping " when I found this wonderful site.

http://kyoyukyoyu.blogspot.com/

Wonderful people have been making toys and blankets in the hope that they will make a real difference.

I really believe they will.

A while back I sent some squares to Hawthorn and I have been watching her efforts collecting squares for blankets and toys for children to love!

Items which will bring a glimmer of hope to people who have lost everything!

Today I see that Hawthorn is asking for more squares and I wondered whether you would like to join in!

I hope you do.

Every square will make a difference and you can tuck lots of love inside!

Everybody loves Elephants! Well except the cruel Poachers! Blankets to help the babies!

2011-10-28T13:12:00.000-07:00

Who can resist a call from an elephant!!

http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2011/09/orphan-elephants/siebert-text/1

Lots of charities ask for support, so many charities deserve support.
So many people deserve support!
But everybody loves elephants!
So if you fancy making 1 strip to show your support of these wonderful animals you can click on the link above.
I did ,and will definitely be working a woolly strip or two!!!

Teddies for Tragedy--- Every one will make a difference!

2011-10-27T08:47:00.000-07:00

Teddies for Tragedy!

I love reading comments about my blog!

Thank you to everyone who takes the time to pop in and make a comment, they make such a difference.

The thing that is often mentioned is the picture in my Header Bar of the Teddies.

People say they make them smile.

They say it warms their hearts and I have been asked never to change it.

I won't because I love it too!

That special year so many teddies were made by me and my friends who knit in Spain!

But maybe this year you could make just one or two.

They would make such a difference to a child somewhere.

What do you think?

To find out more visit

h ttp://www.teddiesfortragedies.org.uk/

Special thanks for all the encouraging comments about this weeks posts.

Every Little girl deserves a pretty dress! Older girls do too!

2011-10-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Every Girl around the world deserves one pretty dress

Now usually I spend my time working with woolly stuff but every now and again I like to spend time my trusty Singer Sewing machine.

We are both definitely vintage!!!

And when I stumbled upon this website I was totally sold!

http://dressagirlaroundtheworld.com/

Surely every little girl deserves a dress and surely we can spare one pillowcase!

So, if you fancy spending some quality time with your machine you can be assured you will make a real difference.

Another wonderful cause Operation Christmas Child!

2011-10-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

Operation Christmas Child!

I think you may have guessed by my posts this week that I have been thinking about various charities.

I love sprinkling Charity work amongst my other woolly escapades.

I have totally given up on the idea that I can make any money out of my creations.

I am hopeless at taking pennies from friends, even if they have asked me for something specific.

Craft Fairs are interesting places I find!

By their very nature they attract "crafty" people who actually like making things themselves so in general it is more a chance for everyone to get new ideas rather than buy other peoples items.

So another Charity I love to support is Operation Christmas Child.

When I taught the "littlies" they loved filling the boxes and we used to send off nearly 100 from school!

Now, I like to help Janet or "Puppet Lady!"

She does an amazing job and sets herself the challenge of making 100 puppets every year!

She has recently taken on a supervisory role and welcomes every item that is sent to her!

So, if you fancy popping into either Operation Christmas Child's website or Janet at Musings of The Puppet Lady you may find a little something which will inspire you to join in the fun!

And, you can be sure that amongst all the commercialism that can surround our celebrations your donation will make a child so happy at Christmas.

Would you believe it Mrs Twins is 100!!!

2011-10-24T07:32:00.000-07:00

100 wonderful blankets!

Sue, or "Mrs Twins" as she is affectionately known, is another source of inspiration to me.

Her organisation SIBOL provides another wonderful way in which to help someone in need this Autumn and Winter.

1 square will be welcomed and placed lovingly in a blanket to help an elderly person.

If you would like to join in the fun,maybe in memory of a beloved relative have a look here!

http://sunshineinternationalblanketsoflove.blogspot.com/

I promise you will not be disappointed.

You may however become addicted to being square!

Have you heard about Loving Hands Charity Knitters?

2011-10-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

Loving Hands Charity Knitting Group!

http://www.lovinghands.org.uk/

Autumn days are here and winter is on it's way!

Maybe you would like to spend some of the darker days or evenings helping others.

If so please check out this wonderful group.

The leader is inspirational,members friendly and encouraging and best of all it actually makes you feel good!

Maybe one item donated might make a difference to one person!

The new winter challenges have just been released on the website so pop in and have a look.

Wonderful Granada!

2011-10-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

If Visitors come for longer than a week we love to take them to the city of Granada.

We love it, they love it and each time the memories become more and more special!

If you are ever near this wonderful Spanish city stop awhile and savour it's delights!

I will let the pictures tempt you.

The magnificent Alhambra on the red hill towering above the city!

Perfecto!!

A VERY SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP!

2011-10-16T01:56:00.000-07:00

Every day is a gift.
Enjoy it with a smile.

After losing his parents, this 3 year old orangutan was so depressed he wouldn't eat and didn't

respond to any medical treatments. The veterinarians thought he would surely die from sadness.
The zoo keepers found an old sick dog on the grounds in the park at the zoo where the orangutan

lived and took the dog to the animal treatment center. The dog arrived at the same time the

orangutan was there being treated.
The 2 lost souls met and have been inseparable ever since.
The orangutan found a new reason to live and each always tries his best to be a good

companion to his new found friend.
They are together 24 hours a day in all their activities.

They live in Northern California where swimming is their favorite past time,
although Roscoe (the orangutan)
is a little afraid of the water and needs his friend's help to swim.

Together they have discovered the joy and laughter in life and the value of friendship.

They have found more than a friendly shoulder to lean on.

Long Live Friendship!!!!!!!

I don't know... some say life is too short, others say it is too long,
but I know that nothing that we do makes sense if we don't touch the hearts of others... while it lasts! x

Paella,perfectly delicious!

2011-10-15T02:05:00.000-07:00

The epitome of being back in Spain. Our first Paella!

We met a lady a while back when we buying our first Spanish Paella Pan

I must have looked a bit nonplussed as to which size to choose!

She then explained in half Spainish and half English exactly what I needed and what I had to do.

A lot of love was mentioned.

In fact it seemed more important that the ingredients!

But she told me very sternly that the most important and the most difficult thing to do is put the spoon away after you have added the rice and stock and leave it to BE!!

It is a real challenge as you really do want to give it a little poke at the very least!

But I wash the spoon,dry it and put it away just as she said and last night our visitors thought it

Perfect!

Thank Goodness for that!

Reasons to be cheerful -- Autumn 2011 in a village in Spain!

2011-10-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

We hate saying goodbye!

We hate leaving our family behind.

The journey is very long, and we always need to do quite a lot in our Spanish house

BUT

It also seems just like home!

Our Spanish home.

All the things we have chosen,placed and love revisiting
We catch up with very special friends
AND!

Days like today make everything worth while.

Fresh figs from the market on the hillside!

The view of the Cabreras' from our balcony!

Pure blue skies which entice us to go for a swim in the sea in October!

And supper cooked and served on the back terrace accompanied by a bottle of wine for 1 Euro!
Life is sweet!

Autumn has come so the snowbirds can travel!

2011-10-09T00:30:00.000-07:00

It's that time again!

Goodbye,farewell, see you later to the UK

Ola! Saludo!

To Spain

The Sunshine Bus is packed and we are ready for our Autumn sojourn.

Take Care everyone until we get back.

Rested ,relaxed and batteries recharged.

All ready to meet a very new and very special member of the Chalky family!

Normal service will resume Spanish Style after a ferry to Santander and six hundred miles travelling through Spain to our little Spanish house!

Thank you to mu lovely followers,as ever for all your encouraging comments and support.

ATutorial and a little bit of an addiction to lovely Granny Cushions!

2011-10-07T01:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is lovely to revisit a project!

Actually I can always visit a Granny Square!

To me, it is the epitome of Crochet!

Crochet soothes and calms,delights and inspires and to be honest makes me feel complete.

Like a good friend!

Like a good book!

Like a bar of chocolate!

Just something that I love for being a part of my life!

So, not long ago I tried a cushion for a very special little girl.

I was really pleased with it and it is now all wrapped up in paper for her birthday,

Then, when I was suffering a little bout of "Empty Hand Syndrome"

I thought of my brother and his wife and got hooking!

So here we have a Tutorial for a cushion cover.

Start with the Granny square.
My tutorial here, but keep feeding it with hooky stitches until you have 21 rounds.

So that is the front of the cushion completed!
This time I decided to work the back in a different way.
Trebles of course.
I like projects which grow fast.

So, to make the back you need to make two parts.
One longer than the other to achieve a neat opening.
Start by making a chain with 76 stitches, add 2 chain for turning,this counts as the first treble in the next row.
Working in the chain two from the hook work 2 more trebles. This makes your first cluster of 3.
Miss 2 chains and then work a cluster of 3 trebles in the next chain.
Work along the row until you have worked 26 clusters of 3 trebles.
Chain 3 and turn.
Continue in this way,making clusters in the middle chain of the cluster from the previous row.
Can you see where the hook goes in?

Work 1 part of the back completing 30 rows.

And a second part completing 15 rows.

Now it is compilation time.
Work with wrong sides facing each other.
Working with a contrasting colour and allowing for the overlap of the back work a double crochet stitch all around the cushion.
This joins the front to the back,

Also work across the envelope opening in the same double crochet stitch.
The finishing touch is to work another row of double crochet all around the cushion but adding a little picot edging.
This picot edging is.
5 double crochets worked in 5 stitches in the previous row, then 5 chain and finish the loop by a double crochet in the same stitch

I hope you can see exactly what I mean from the picture
I like to sew on the buttons next so that I get them evenly spaced.

And all that is left is to make the loops for the buttons and sew in the ends!
So working across the opening edge, double crochet until you get to a button then chain 6 .
Leave 3 stitches from your previous row to make the buttonhole loop

Finish the row in Double Crochet and making loops for all your buttons!
The Craft Fairy was sitting on my shoulder this morning look how much orange yarn I had lest at the end of the row!!!!!!

Phew!!!!
So sew in the ends!
Stuff with a pillow pad and here we have it.
Granny has a cushion Take Two!

I love the neat finish with the buttons .
In fact I almost like the back as much as the front.
What do you think?

I hope this tutorial works for you.
Please shout if anything if anything is not clear.

Coffee,Cream and Maroon colours are winking at me now!

The Moses basket got a Makeover!

2011-10-05T15:31:00.000-07:00

I guess that some people who follow my ramblings will have realised there is excitement in the air!

You might remember this post about this

special Moses basket!

Well, with a bit of tweaking and some quiet hours making paper patterns and lots of sewing

a new look has been achieved all ready for our little Grandson when he arrives in December!

It is waiting quietly in his Nursery in North Devon -- just for him!

Sometimes I feel so lucky!!

2011-10-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

The Ups and Downs of life can certainly sometimes be a challenge.

BUT,

A positive attitude and a sprinkling of luck and love can make such a difference!

We are awaiting such a special little bundle to join our family!

Time spent together,talking,planning,sharing,collecting,crafting has made this time very special.

This evening in South Devon the sun was shining and I just felt so lucky!

You have to look very carefully to see a bump!

A special Mummy, also known in Blogland as Sharky Knows!

We shared a most perfect evening at Coombe Cellars on the River Teign!

The most perfect evening, and I hope we will be back next year with our new little Grandson!

How lucky is that!

Let's Play!! A Crochet Cube for the Toybox!

2011-09-30T01:41:00.000-07:00

It does not take Long before a newborn is up and curious!

Certainly longer than it took me to turn these --

Into this!

A Crochet Cube!

I will show you the sides!

And the sixth is a bit special!
It has a pocket and I popped in a little finger puppet!

Ready for a game of Incy Wincy Spider!

Our little Grandson is due in 11 weeks and we shall be ready to Play!

If you want to crochet one of these cubes make six identical squares.
Mine measure 15cm by 15cm.
I used half Treble Stitch which gives a nice dense feel.
Then decorate the sides with all your favourite things.
If you want to copy the Curly Wurly bits I chain 20,turn and work 2 Half Double Crochet stitches in each of the chain stitches in your first row.
It magically curls as you work and I think it will be just the the to encourage little hands to explore!

I promise to write a tutorial for the spider soon but I am so busy finishing Crafty bits and pieces at the moment it will have to be put on hold for a while!

Finally, if you could look inside you would see the perfect Crafty recycling project!
NB. If I was making this again I would sew all the squares together with wrong sides facing and then turn it the right way out just finishing the closing seam with stitches on the outside!
Still, I am sure the baby won't mind!

All my scraps of wool make it soft and cuddly as well as, I hope,
LOTS OF FUN!
Please shout if you want any more details.

Loving This Lurking!!

2011-09-27T02:22:00.000-07:00

Look what was lurking right at the back of the cupboard under the stairs!

What a lovely basket!

I have decided the answer to a really tidy house is not to bother with the "flylady" approach.

But pack most of your possessions in cardboard boxes and stack them very neatly in the garage!

So much tidy space in the house.

And you get these little bonuses too!!

Thank you Sal and your lovely Snippetts!!!!!

2011-09-26T07:50:00.000-07:00

I love the thought of Patchwork-- Choosing,blending,placing,balancing!

All these things.

BUT

In reality -- crooked, squiffy and irregular are probably better adjectives for my efforts.

BUT

Recently the lovely Sal from Sals Snippets gave me this little bundle.

All beautifully cut, very accurate and precise-- She always was good at Geometry!!

So thank you Sal.

So all I had to do was the bits I like best!

And stand back and admire.

And as the song goes -"quit while you are winning!"

1 cushion done and dusted!

Lurking!!

2011-09-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

The "Sporty One " and I work together on BIG projects and ------ a very big project is looming!

It entails a lot of organising,planning and our house being without a roof for 10 weeks or more-- EEeeKKKK!

Anyway,a lot of boxes are being packed and a lot of hidden places tidied.

It's easy for him as the garage is staying the same but my Crafty hideaways -- Oh my goodness no!

We have to move into our DMIL'S house for at least three months whilst our house is shaken and stirred!!

We have lived in our house, in our village, with our family for nearly twenty five years but all is about to change.

I will keep you updated as we progress -- I am even thinking about creating a new blog titled

" Our Broken House!"

We shall see!

Anyway, amongst all that drama look what I found lurking on the top shelf of the airing cupboard.

All alone with some odd socks and a Mary Quant quilt set!

A Lappycuddlyhan I made so long ago I had forgotten it!

The perfect present for a pretty perfect Mother-In -Law (Soap opera watching excluded)

What a find!

A little relapse -- Scrapitis does not want to leave me!!

2011-09-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

You may have read this post about my problem with "Scrapitis!"

Well I thought I had fully recovered from the latest bout!

But just as I was breathing a sigh of relief "The Sporty One" came downstairs with some shirts that he was taking to the Charity Shop!

There in his arms were two of my favourites.

Favourites to look at but not to iron!!!!

Pure Linen.

One in pink and one in green.

Here is the green and within five minutes this was the pink!

So Green,pink,green,pink and look what I had made!

I purposely cut them with pinking shears.

I sewed two together but did not turn them inside out.

I wanted a shabby look and loved the glimpses of detail which showed their origin!

They look really soft and utilitarian, exactly the look I was after!

So if you see some linen shirts watch out for a bout of scrapitis!
I would just like to say a big "Thank You " for all the kind comments about my parcels of love!
So Glad they arrived safely and they had lots of love tucked in!!

Boxes of love! All packed and ready to go!

2011-09-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

I have a list of projects pinned behind my cupboard door, things which are in desperate need of finishing.

Oh! How I love finishing things and I always have a lot to keep my mojo busy!

I love starting things, and suffer,at times with the dreaded " craft butterfly syndrome!"

But this week I have been busy packing boxes.

These 4 Lappycuddlyghans are on their way to a very good home!
My friends on the Charity Knitting Thread I belong to have been busy making squares and I have been busy turning them into the Lappys!

These lovely cuddly bits and pieces are on their way to Bonnie Scotland and Loving Hands Charity.

My dear Mother In Law who is 81 made these wonderful hats for Premature babies --- 86 hats. Isn't that amazing and I know they will make a big difference to those dear little babies- Thanks Mum!

And this assortment is winging it's way to Puppet Lady.

She works tirelessly for Operation Christmas Child and I hope these items will help fill the boxes and bring a smile to a little ones face!

So that is three more things crossed off the list.

Still quite a few to cross off!

Giveaway ready to be posted to -----------

2011-09-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Thank You so much for joining in the fun here at Chalky's World Birthday Giveaway.

I gave each comment a number and popped them in a bowl and comment number 11 was the first I picked out!
So, I do declare Bluebell to be the winner but again "Thank You " for accompanying me on my Blogging Journey!!

So,Bluebell please email me your address and a little box of goodies will be on it's way with lots of love from

ME!!

CHALKY'S WORLD IS 2!!!!! MUST BE TIME FOR A GIVEAWAY!!!

2011-09-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

Wow! I have been rambling for 2 years!

Right now would seem the perfect time to say a big "Thank You" to all the lovely people who pop in and have a little ramble with me!

"Thank You" to the very kind folk who leave such lovely, encouraging comments and also "Thank You" to the people who just follow, and who tell me personally that "Chalky's World" brightens their day.

It certainly brightens mine!

I don't think I could ever change the Teddy picture in the Header Bar.

I only have to look at it and the teddies still make me smile!

So after a gradual recovery from "Scrapitis!" I thought that all that hard work and succsessful tidying could be put to good use, and become the basis of my Birthday Giveaway!

I love packing boxes, and I thought for every comment that is left on this Birthday post I would pop a little something from "Chalky's World" in the box.

Then I will wrap it with a pretty tie and send it on it's way with lots of love from ME!

Another Disease. I hope you don't catch Scrapitis!

2011-09-04T12:03:00.000-07:00

Do you remember these diseases?

Well, I have just been struck down by a new, and very time consuming disease called Scrapitis!

I have alerted the WCO -- Otherwise known as the World Craft Organisation!

I only realised that I was suffering from the symptoms yesterday.

I am trying to tidy and organise the dreaded "Black Hole," also known as the Understairs Cupboard!

Now, that would seem an easy task.

But I am already totally addicted to all things "Crafty!"

Wool is my worst addiction but I also have a very soft spot for material.

My old trusty Singer Sewing machine has been serving me well for 47 years!!!

The wool stash was soon organised and then out came a "Bag for Life" brimming with materials.

I have talked before that really I like finishing things best of all!

So,the symptoms of Scrapitis always get worse when you find things just crying out to be turned into something!

So,Big pieces of material shout "bibs!"

Medium pieces shout " shoe bags" perfect for shoes when you are travelling.

I also love them as soap bags.

Smaller ones are ideal for camera bits and pieces!

Small pieces shout " bunting!"

Pennants in every colour available!

Now, you would think after all this organisation it would be easy to throw out the remaining scraps.

But, no. I hear my Grandma's voice saying "waste not,want not" and of course the tiny pieces shout "Patchwork!"

Well, all this shouting is all very well, and the end results of all this tidying is to say the least thrilling. BUT, I must be the slowest tidier in the whole wide world!

And it's all because I really do suffer very badly from "Scapitis!"

Do you?

Granny has got a cushion!!

2011-09-01T02:13:00.000-07:00

Oh! Granny Squares, I love You!

I have e very special God Daughter who has actually made herself a " Cosy Corner" with the presents I have given her at special times.

When she showed it to me she told me it is where she goes if she is feeling poorly or sad!

I was really touched as she is only seven!

So to give an extra layer of cosy cuddliness I have made this cushion for her special place.

24 rounds of a Granny Square.

3 Rounds of each colour.

And to top it off a pretty button in the middle.

For the back I worked 40 rows of trebles for the main part and 10 rows of trebles for the second part to make an envelope opening.

I worked crochet chains for ties and added a picot edging to finish it off.

I wanted it to be super squishy so bought a Duck Down pillow pad and ---

It really has done the trick.

A perfect addition to a very special little ones "Cosy Corner!"

If anyone wants any more details please ask and I think I will add a couple of extra ties when I look at that picture!

Buster wishes he had gone to New York!

2011-08-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

But at least he has the New York Yankees Cap!

Burp or Dribble we have it covered!

2011-08-27T02:53:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has had a baby knows how important burping is!

Any trapped wind can lead to really sad crying!

And, of course young babies are often a little sicky.
You soon realise your shoulders become the exact target especially when you are just about to go out!

So Muslin sheets become your very best friend.

I was doing a bit of "blog hopping" and found this wonderful idea.

.http://sewing.craftgossip.com/chickpeas-burp-cloths-and-babies/2008/07/25/

Well when we were in America I made a beeline for the nappy section and I have spent such a happy day making this little set!

All folded and ready to go!
But, let's have a closer look at the ones I made.
Three with Hungry Caterpillar fabric!

And three with pirates!

It is only 16 weeks until our Grandson is due to arrive .
Of course he won't burp,dribble or be sicky but he can enjoy looking at the pictures!!
The fabric came from Ebay in case you want to make some.
I have not found pre-folded nappies in the UK but I think they would be good with soft teatowels
or small Guest Towels.

So Thank You Chickpea for such a brilliant tutorial.

Home again,home again, Jiggetty Jog!

2011-08-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

Wonderful memories of a happy time in America!

Day 1 for Ben and Sarah!

And, Thank You Canada.

Such a special visit, and day 12,735 for us!!

Now, it's time to fly home and I hope the flight goes as smoothly as everything else has!

And, I promise normal service will be resumed as soon as we recover from the dreaded jetlag.
Because of course a little bit of wool had to be rescued as we were having such a lovely time!

Serenity!

2011-08-18T17:27:00.000-07:00

Serenity ---

The state of being calm,peaceful and untroubled.

A little bit.

A little bit more.

So nearly there.

Perfect!

For me!

Trip Advisor, Woolworth's, Bethlehem and sleeping in Cary Grants bed!!

2011-08-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

Trip Advisor is my "Bible" for travelling!

It rarely lets me down and right now it has certainly come up trumps!!

The irony of travelling to Bethlehem today had not escaped me.

It became more and more ironic for a "Devonshire maid" to leave Falmouth (in the USA) and on our journey pass Plymouth, Barnstaple, Truro, Lincoln, Weymouth,Braintree Londonderry,Derry and Lebanon.

We arrived in Bethlehem in the pouring rain and found ourselves at the Mulburn Inn on Main Street .

We had booked for four nights at the Inn hoping to do lots of walking in the White Mountains.

We soon realised we were in a rather marvellous time warp!

At the turn of the century Bethlehem was one of America's premier resort destinations.

It boasted sixty grand hotels and three stations with ten trains a day arriving from New York and Boston.

Now it is no bigger than a sleepy mountain village.

The wealthy and famous flocked to the White Mountains to enjoy the crisp mountain air.

The Mulburn Inn was built at the turn of the century as the summer estate for the F.W.Woolworth family.

Social gatherings often occurred here for the rich and famous.

The Woolworth Estate was a popular social gathering spot for members of high society.

The Rockefellers and other social elites frequently visited.
We are staying in the Adams Room where Cary Grant and Barbara Hutton spent their romantic honeymoon!

The details are amazing!

And I am sure Cary Grant will have used this very Art Deco bathroom!

So tonight we shall sleep,maybe dreaming of Cray Grant and
in the morning, after a breakfast, which is no longer cooked on the gift to the family from Thomas Edison in 1924.

We will sit on the porch and think of an era past and plan our day.
Hopefully the sun will have returned to show the White Mountains around Bethlehem off to their best!

What a treat!

Martha's Vineyard- A real treat!

2011-08-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

In the 17c a Mariner named Bartholomew Gosnold found wild grapes on this island and named it Martha after one of his daughters.

Prior to 1640,3000 Wampanoag Indians lived on the island.

Yesterday we added to the swelling summer numbers when we went to visit.

And what a treat we were in for!

Even a reminder of Buster back home!

Sunday mornings in my childhood were spent sitting "on best behaviour" next to my Grandma in the Methodist Chapel in Newton Abbot.

She never touched a drop of alcohol,prayed on her knees by her bedside until she died and would never do any work on a Sunday!

So, I had read about the "Gingerbread Houses" of Martha's Vineyard and that was our first stop.

These little cottages,numbering around three hundred, look like they are straight out of a Hansel and Gretel Story Book.

In 1835 the Methodist Camp Meeting began holding summer revival meetings here.Originally the members set up camps but as the revivals grew more popular the tents were replaced by these cottages which were adorned with extra decorations every year!

They are still lived in, but one has been changed into a Museum.

I remember our family Bible being exactly like this one.
All the important family dates were written inside the cover!

A hand sewn quilt depicting the flora and fauna of the states of America.

Services are still held in the Tabernacle which was built in 1879.

And I had to just step in the Methodist Church built so long ago!

I only had to close my eyes and I could hear my Grandma singing one of the many John Wesley hymns she loved so much!
So more than a little walk down memory lane.
And a very beautiful day.

JUST ONE OF THOSE MAGICAL MOMENTS!

2011-08-09T05:37:00.000-07:00

A Rainbow over Niagara Falls!

And more than a little bit of mist over the Horseshoe Falls!

Only one word - Awesome!