Squirrels Knitting Conquests

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T20:33:00.000Z

Happy Valentines Day everyone xx

Leaky eyed

2012-02-05T11:33:00.002Z

Mmm, this is a sad post but I feel I need to post it as I miss the person very much.

A year ago today my family lost a very special person, we were all shocked and saddened by the news that my Aunt Mary had passed. The day of her funeral was very bleak and very somber. The minister was very sympathetic and unknown to any of us started to read a passage, this passage was to give the family a little moment of happiness at a very sad time. He started to talk about a Patron Saint, St. Francis of Assisi to be precise and his love for animals. My Aunt was very kind hearted and loved all animals big, small, tame and wild, she often fed animals in her garden and they would appear as soon as she stepped out the door, little hedgehogs, birds, even foxes. I think we all faintly smiled that day at my Aunt being likened to a Patron Saint who loved animals, it certainly seemed very fitting. And even though it took the family a long time to recover from the death, I think the image of her surrounded by animals helps to ease the pain.

We all love and miss you.

God Bless.

xxx

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Just Chillin!

2012-02-03T23:30:00.000Z

I was cleaning up my inbox, as you do-well especially when it's sitting at 4986 posts- ahem and I came across some emails from my little sister which happened to have attachments to them. Imagine how surprised I was when I found this adorable picture, my little nephew Kody and his kitten Felix. As you can imagine this picture has been safely saved to my hard drive, pen drive and Blackberry so it never goes missing or forgotten about again.

Yahoo!!

2012-01-24T15:48:00.002Z

I'm a happy wee bunny found out today that I passed all my assessment exams (1st time). 90% for Play, 90% for Holistics, 78% for Child Development, 78% for Theory and 70% Developing an Understanding. Also passed school placement with a glowing reference. I'm a little more stress free now. I'm going to celebrate with a wee bit knitting. (those top percentages say ninety not forty, stupid typeface lol)

Hanging My Head in Shame

2012-01-03T16:43:00.002Z

Hello everyone, hope you're all well and enjoyed your Christmas and New Year.


Happy New Year From the Capital of Scotland (Edinburgh)

Not sure about Braveheart. Brave sods more like wearing a kilt in freezing weather.

I wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone who purchased a bag or dpn case throughout 2011 and I hope I go on to entice more customers to buy my wares (fingers crossed).
On a sadder note:
I'm not even going to apologise to my little blog for neglecting it, I think that would just be too much of an insult and I'm not even going to make up excuses, other than to say I'm eating, sleeping college at the mo. Need to find a happy medium between college and home life as I didn't really have a home life before Christmas and it resulted in me becoming ill with stress again, just a tiny glitch but one I need to remedy.

On a kind of happier note:
I've picked up the needles again. I haven't really knitted since September and I've really missed it, so my New Years Resolution is going to be one I can't break and that's to knit more. Well it's better than saying I'm going on a diet or I'm joining the gym as I would definitely break those two.

A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE AROUND THE WORLD FROM HERE IN BONNIE SCOTLAND - LANG MAY YOUR LUM REEK ♥

Happy Halloween Everyone

2011-10-31T19:47:00.000Z

I love Halloween time, not that I dress up or do anything special, well, apart from watch scary movies that is. It's just nice to see all the little one's dress up, sing songs, play tricks on each other and eat loads of treats. And I think it's even more special this year as I have just started in my first placement, a primary school. and carried out my first activity, making pumpkin faces out of ripped up tissue paper and black card, with the little ones. Very cool.
And my home activities. I've been crafting these little guys for a Halloween special swap:


Halloween Swap Goodies

The little ghost with the boo in his hands is from a pattern by Sarah Gasson and the little pumpkin pattern is by Phoenixknits. I think perhaps the pumpkin is my favorite pattern, although I loved the construction of the little ghost. They didn't take very long at all to make up. However, just look at Leatherface, I don't think they're going to last very long. Do you?

New Stock- Shop Update!

2011-10-23T15:30:00.001+01:00

Since my computer is now well and back to good health I have managed to photograph my new stock and upload photos. All the new items have been uploaded to my Folksy store here

Partridge in a Pear tree (blue)

Partridge in a Pear tree (cream)

Winter Rose

Orange Blossom

Twilight Safari

Cinders

Toffee Apple

Poppy

Autumn

Made by Sun Rae

Sewn in beautiful designer fabric, these gorgeous Pyramid Project Bags measure 7" high x 7" wide. The cases are fully lined with a zip fastening closing and carry handle made from ribbon. They are able to hold a sock knitting project with Dpns and 100g of yarn or a small crochet project, yarn and hook.

This item is ideal for popping in your handbag when out and about or storing your project discreetly away, when at home.

I'm back!

2011-10-15T16:36:00.005+01:00

Hi everyone, hope you are all well.

I'm back to the land of the internet and ready to finally sort out my poor little blog, how neglected does it look? I've not only been very busy, I'm at college now studying Early Years and Childcare fulltime. Then my laptop died on me when I tried to take it back to factory settings, it was running really slow and I felt taking it back to how I received it was my only option. Big mistake, it totally fried. Ironically it was exactly one year to the date of having a new mother board installed, weird or what????? So twenty-one days, new hard drive, DVD drive and strip cover (don't know what the third item is) later, I'm back to the land of the internet. Still trying to iron out a few niggles , sound card, downloading programmes and re-installing stuff from disc, I can see where my October holiday is going to go, *sigh*.

Not too bothered about my October holiday being taken up with this though. A spot of baking from my new book, *bliss*.

The Great British Bake Off

I subtly hinted to Paul that I wanted this book for Christmas after seeing it for £10 in Tesco and lo and behold I was packing my rucksack for college one day and saw the top of a book that looked too thick and I didn't recognize. Thinking I had accidentally packed one of my knitting books to take to college, I yanked it out and burst into tears when I recognized the cover. Paul had only bought the book secretly and stashed it in my college bag as a surprise, how thoughtful is that?

Sorry I'm going off on a tangent: I'm including a picture of the yummy Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry (just for you Ozzy =D ).


Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry

So now I'm on holiday he's pressurizing me to make 'Paul's Iced Fingers' and 'Paul's Pork Pies'.

Paul Hollywood's Iced Fingers

Told him if he mentions these again for the fortieth time I'm going to "hit him in the face with the book" , his reply in kind, "good job I bought you the book then, eh? "........ cheeky monkey.

What a week!

2011-09-11T20:15:00.001+01:00

Thank Crunchy it's not just Friday but it's finally the weekend, what a week it's been. I can't go into too much detail yet but let's just say it involved a trip to the Citizens Advice Bureau. Never had to use their services before but I can tell you I will definitely be using them again in the future. I left their offices full of confidence, I felt reassured and the biggest plus I have a contact who is more than willing to help me sort out my problems (yes plural). I'm now able to sleep properly at night and eat a full meal without feeling I'm going to vomit everywhere. More information to follow.

Baking

The Great British Bake off started..... ohhhh! A couple of weeks ago, I think. Love this series, the only drawback, I want to bake and bake. Fine if you have a large family to feed but there's only Paul and the dog. Does this stop me from messing up the kitchen with flour, eggs, sugar and what ever else I can fit in a bowl? Not a chance, queue photos-

yummy cupcakes

Flower Cupcakes

Vanilla cupcakes decorated with green icing and sugar paste flowers. I placed these into clear presentation bags and shared them with my family. I couldn't have possibly eaten them all by myself. Unlike the little treats below.

Strawberry Velvet Truffles

These guys are so moreish and to be honest I didn't give very much away. Yes I did eat more than my fair share and I'm not scared to admit it. Lol! Plus their a secret recipe, so I'm not going to share. Sorry!

Banana Loaf Mixture


Banana and Sultana Loaf

Brilliant recipe for using ripened bananas, easy and quick to make, very moist. I have also substituted the raisins for sultanas (juicier) and I have also used chocolate buttons before too. Loaf is very much a comfort food recipe, you know the type, shut the world out, put feet up with a tea/coffee in one hand and a huge slice/wedge in the other, bliss.

Chocolate Chip Muffins

And finally Chocolate Chip Muffins. Sugar is added to the top of these before baking to give then a crunchier, crispier top.

Some Sewing

Margaret Sherry Cross Stitch

The Robin and the Mouse outline

A kiss

Christmas Card

I don't know what has happened to my knitting mojo I haven't picked up the pins for weeks. It seems to have flown straight out of the window, however cross stitch has appeared in it's place. In the form of a freebie sewing kit by Margaret Sherry. I was so obsessed with it that I managed to finish it in one day. I only stopped for food and toilet breaks and nothing much else. Doesn't it look cute? I've advised Paul if he wants to perhaps buy me a small gift at anytime, then I would love another Margaret Sherry kit. Don't think he was listening as I haven't received anything yet. Sigh!

Pyramid Bag Update

In my previous post I announced that I would be adding some new stock to my Folksy account. After losing the battery to my camera and then the lead, I have now found both and stashed them in a safe place, the update will now take place on Thursday evening (15/09/11) at 8pm GMT.

Colours of Summer...... Sherbert!

2011-08-23T15:12:00.001+01:00

Hi everyone. Hope you are all well =D.

Once again this has been a wonderful week for my handmade items. My Sherbert Dib-Dab Pyramid Bag recently featured and made it into an Etsy Treasury: "Colours of Summer" the theme was Sherbert (bottom, 2nd from left).

To say I'm excited is an understatement, people are seriously going crazy for these bags, so I'm going to add more fuel to the fire and announce some new stock. Yes! I've been squirrling away for the past couple of days making loads of new bags-11 to be precise, which will promptly be added to my Folksy, and Etsy by the 25th of August (Thursday) this week.

Getting back to Nature

Even though where I live we are surrounded by countryside, sometimes it's just nice to get away to pastures new. See new scenery, a different layout and just generally drink in whats around you. I'd never been to Crieff before, well not that I can remember of and even though I moaned on the way up in the car, the end result was both breathtaking plus relaxing.

Lady Mary's Walk- Crieff

The River Earn

Wild Flowers

breathtaking scenery

dog walking

Soaking my feet in the River Earn

bliss

We walked and walked and each turn on the path brought more nature, some people, kids playing in the water, people jogging, dogs walking with their owners, babies being wheeled around in their buggies, everyone with the same thing on their mind, don't rush just take it easy.

Just Doodling

On Fabric:


Poppies

I was taught how to sew from a very young age by a rather cantankerous elderly woman. She was married to the local doctor -old military type and very to the point, no nonsense kind of man- she was a brilliant teacher, with an awful temper. Heaven help you if you forgot your sewing bag or "gasp" your needle happened to slip and your stitch didn't look right, all hell broke loose. Then in High School a rather nasty Home Economics teacher took it upon herself to tell me I was useless at sewing and it would be better if I just gave up.
So I'm not sure what they would make of my little embroidery doodle, sewn on to some denim. ooops! What the heck! It was fun.

Healthwise

I've had a months rest from my PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) therapy treatment, EMDR, which has thrown up a few glitches but hopefully it is just old memories being processed into the files in my brain. The one thing I wasn't counting on was the severe depression or the abnormal lack of energy that has come with the break, or my therapists excuse "the reason why you're feeling like this, is because you have stopped taking your Fluoxetine", I've been off my tabs since April and seemingly it's only now my body is retaliating with depression, mmm! I don't think so. To me the antidepressants weren't working, they were masking my feelings and I wasn't facing up to reality. I was walking around feeling numb and zombiefied and I'm afraid that is a state I didn't very much care to be in. Yes the therapist frowned at me, when I tried to explain that I wanted to feel the pain of reliving the memories I had whilst going through the EMDR treatment and that is why I weaned myself off the medication. To me it's the only way I'm going to recover, period. So after a power struggle with me refusing to go back onto the medication (I'm very stubborn) we decided the next best thing would be to try a more natural approach in the form of fish oils. Omega 3 with a high EPA count, this is to combat the severity of depression and the sluggishness, I'm suffering from. I'm also taking B vitamins for adult acne (due to stress)
Anyway, I've been taking the fish oils and vitamins since Thursday of last week. Friday, Saturday and Sunday I felt on top of the world, loads of energy, talking non-stop, knitting like a woman possessed, tidying, taking the dog for a walk, eating less sugary foods, listening to music and living again but then Monday appeared and I hit a wall so big that I couldn't even step over it let alone climb over it. I was majorly tired but not depressed, which is good, I think. By Tuesday (right through to Thursday) I was bulldozing the wall and marching ahead full of beans, then Friday had to happen. I just sat and cried on and off for most of the day. Sounds depressing but this is me getting better. Before treatment I was down and crying for 6 days out of 7. Now it's maybe 2 and at a push 3 days out of the week, eventually it will be none. So were does this take me? Well, I will be moving forward and starting CBT after the therapist comes back from his holidays. The CBT is the final push on my therapy and is the ground work for making me a living, working, person again.
It can only get better, right?

Can I have a drum roll-please!!!!!

2011-08-07T15:40:00.007+01:00

Exciting News

Watermelon Pin Case as featured in Sew Hip Issue 32

The right hand column has a new item added. Yes, my Watermelon Needle Case features in the September Issue of Sew Hip Magazine. So far I have sold 6 of these little guys since they appeared on my website and Folksy shop.
Another best seller is the Abstract Russian Doll Bag. I've lost count (only in my head) as to how many of these lovely bags I've sold. Knitters seem to be going crazy for the design =D

The No 1 Best Seller

My handmade items are doing really well and cater for all craft people. So if you have a birthday or just need a gift for that special craft person in your life, head over to my shop for a browse. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Headbanging time

About two posts ago I spoke about having to make the big decision to frog my Sunshine Cardi, as it just wasn't me, then I found a new project called Shimmer by Kim Hargreaves, which I was most excited about. Well, a week later I'm not liking it at all, I love the look of the pattern, so I think it maybe the yarn colour I'm hating. I think it may have a hex on it Lol! This is now the second time I've used it and it looks like this project will have to be frogged too (squirrel walks away, shoulders heavy, scraping her paws along the woodwork, in defeat) =( I can hear the frog behind me saying "Rip it, Rip it, Rip it, Rip it. Think I'm going to have to place the yarn in the naughty corner for a week or so, well, until I can least face looking at it again. Stupid beep-beep frog!!!!

New Knitting

The Beekeeper's Quilt, image courtesy tinyowlknits

Yes your eyes just bulged out of their sockets, didn't they. Cause I know mine did. Isn't this amazing looking. The little honeycomb puffs are individually made in 4ply yarn then put together to make this awesome multicolored quilt. I've been rummaging frantically in my stash for mini skeins, oddments and anything else I can get my squirrely paws on. I want my quilt to be just as fab as this, so I've joined a Kal (so I can be nosey and see what everyone else is doing). If you want to make one too it is designed by Tiny Owl Knits and the pattern is The beekeeper's quilt.

Taadaaa!!

2011-07-24T13:34:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone! Hope you are all swell =D

Well I woke to a wonderful surprise on Wednesday.

I am now the proud owner and one of forty winners to obtain a copy of Mollie Makes Issue 1. I already have issue 2 & 3- I absolutely adore the magazine- but this issue is really like gold dust, so I'm one very happy Squirrel. I had thought of purchasing the magazine as a digital edition but it's not really the same as having a magazine that you can thumb through at your leisure. Not very environmentally friendly, I know.
Crocheting
I've been busy on the crocheting front. I feel in love with Inga's Hakelbeutel back in 2010 on Ravelry.

Inga's Hakelbeutel

Mmm.....! My queue of items on this site is quite extensive. I'm going to have to live until at least a hundred to get through it. Anyway back to the bag, I loved it so much that I decided to make my own. I've gone for crochet flower squares for mine but still followed Inga's formula for putting the bag together. My bag is in Neapolitan-ish ice cream colours and made with Rowan Cotton.


My variation of Inga's Hakelbeutel

I would highly recommend creating this bag it's quick to make up, just needs a little patience to put together but it's so worth it.

Made with Rowan Cotton

I was going to sew the squares together but in the end I just used a running crochet stitch which has given the bag a raised detailed seam. Not only does it look more professional but it keeps the squares from stretching when the bag is in use.

The bag is fully lined with an interior zip pocket and magnetic fastener

The interior of the bag is also fully lined. I'm not going to tell you how much of a beep-beep (excuse the language) that was to sew in place, especially around the V section at the top of the bag. However there was no way I was giving up after cutting and making the letterbox zip pocket, so I persevered and it paid off. I will soon be strutting my stuff once I've attached the woven handles I bought for it.

FO -finished object!


Button Close-up

I have finally finished my Anais. She has been blocked, sewn together, tried on, buttons bought, buttons attached, tried on again, stroked, oooooed and aahhed over. Yip! She's stunning and I love her.

She's stunning

another button close-up

It took me a couple of days to find the right buttons, I had 4 in my button collection- Anais needs 10- when I saw them I had no reservations about snapping up 6 more.

Stunning

Please don't ask me how these little guys ended up in my basket. All I'm saying is my hand must have slipped and they fell in at checkout. Honest! Wink, wink!

Squirrel Buttons, so cute!

Whats Next

I have a few potential new knits that I have my eye on. Just don't know which one to start first as I love them all.

First up is Margate by Sarah Hatton. I love this little shrug, however some of the pictures I have seen on Ravelry it's sits above the bust line, I'm a busty girl, so if I made this I would have to lengthen the body, which is no problem. I love the pink colour but not sure if I have any in my stash. So this is a maybe.

Margate by Sarah Hatton

Second up is Dapper by Marie Wallin. I've only used bead work once or twice and loved it. I'm not sure if this is a bit dressy for me. I usually only wear jeans and trainers. Then again maybe making this would put me back in touch with my feminine side. I also like the models hair too. I've been toying with having mine chopped into a bob for ages. It's the same colour and thickness as the models in the picture, then again, that could be construed as stalking, wearing the same cardi and having the same hair do. Lol! Think we should jump onto number three.

Dapper by Marie Wallin

Third up is another Marie Wallin design called Sedate. It's not a very clear picture, the bodice is plain with a lace sleeve. I love this colour, however I have just knitted Anais and the colouring is very similar.


Sedate by Marie Wallin

Fourth and final design I like is Serene by Martin Storey. I'm not keen on the colour, beige tends to wash me out. I am more of a jewel coloured person. Ohhh! I've just noticed someone on Rav has made this in black and red, which I like very much. This could be the next one on the needles, peeps. What do you think?

Friendship Blanket

The following squares are for the month of July and from Leg on the forum.

Beautifully wrapped, I was also thrifty and kept the ribbon

Dogman needs a hug

My poor little boy hasn't been very well all week. He has had a nasty tummy bug and not to go into too much detail, he's had stuff coming out either end. He's had no energy, he's not even been moaning- which has been very strange, as he's a hound. He's only been able to drink water which is also odd as he's like a hoover normally. So could everyone send him big hugs and tell him to get well soon. He's my world and I would be so lost without him.

My Mobile is Full of Silliness

I thought instead of talking about what's on my I Pod, I would tell you about the silliness on my phone.
I don't use my mobile very often, only for texting my mum, sister and Paul. I don't even talk on it since developing a phobia of phones during my EMDR Therapy. It's not just my mobile, any phone no matter who's calling I just can't face picking it up and saying hello. Odd I know, hopefully the CBT will sort this out. Not being able to talk on the mobile doesn't stop me from adding silly stuff to it though.

Like wallpapers I change frequently:

Boo!!!!

Domokun

Domokun he's friendly really

Help!!

So Who Is Domokun?

He is a strange creature born from an egg. He has a sawtoothed mouth that is locked wide. His body is bulky but his heart is pure. He likes to daydream and often finds himself in trouble for not paying attention. He is strong but gentle. When he's in a bad mood, nervous or upset he breaks wind. Lol!
His only form of communication is by producing a low pitched noise which sounds like his name.
I love him he's cool.

I also like to add silly tunes, so if my phone does ring it makes me smile, even though I don't answer it.

In the form of Bod!

or Roobarb and Custard

Or my all time favourite The Flumps. Yes I'm a seventies kid and proud of it.

Shirley oxoxo

Raspberry Fools!

2011-07-12T17:03:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone hope you are all well. Me, I'm good, I think....... Okay perhaps feeling a wee bit bogged down with the world just now. I just wish I could stick up two fingers to the horrible rude people that I encounter now and again in my life (but I'm too nice a person for that). You know the type, the ones that like to chuck not just spanners in the works but the whole tool bag, hammer and all.

Me blowing a raspberry to the rude fools of the world!

It just never fails to amaze me how ignorant and selfish some people can be. I was taught as a child to always respect other peoples feelings, to say please and thank you. Nowadays, you're more likely to have a door swung in your face or worse someone deliberately walking through you to the point you nearly fall over, then they announce you fell -hello, I wasn't aware I was capable of stealth mode. Deep breathe, aahhhhhh! Karma- just keep thinking, karma. Lol!

Having a go

At Cross Stitch. People who knit, will tell you they also dabble in other crafts. I'm afraid I'm no exception to this rule. I will try my hand at any craft. I embroider, sew, dress make, crochet, knit, draw, weave, spin and now I have added Cross Stitch.

The Daffodil

The Daisy

My favourite The Poppy

They are worked on 14 count Aida and come with all the supplies (thread, aida, card surround, envelopes and chart) you need to recreate the little flowers. They can be found in this magazine here. These little samples are just right for someone starting off Cross Stitch as a lot of counting is involved. And having a brain like a giant sieve at the moment, these turned out to be just right for my attention span. Hopefully by Christmas I will have progressed onto something more spectacular but then again, maybe I will have found a new craft to occupy me.

On the knitting front, new knitting books:

Rowan Limited Edition Members Book

Very beautiful book. Loads of info about the designers through the years and gorgeous patterns too. It's to celebrate the 50^th edition of the Rowan Knitting Magazine, and gifted to members. It's a hardback and not available to purchase anywhere!

Rowan Limited Edition Book

This also came through the door the other day too.

Little Red in the city by Ysolda Teague

I'm really spoilt for choice and not sure what to make first. Quite a hefty book , 264 pages. Contains section on Yarn Selection, swatching, measurements, sizing, fits, blocking, cast on, short row methods, buttonholes, using patterns, abbreviations and 7 patterns. My favourite is Angostura, Lauriel and Skelf.

OTN- Off The Needles
Not a finished product. I'm talking quite literally, off the needles, as in frogged =(

Yes, I've been bad and I'm sure I'm going to regret it later. My Sunshine Cardi has been sitting in a corner waiting for me to finish it's collar, for over a month. I was loving this knit at the beginning but as times gone on, well..... To be honest I just don't think it's me. Don't get me wrong it's a lovely pattern, however everytime I looked at it, I just couldn't face finishing it. I'm not sure if it's the colour or me procrastinating over my body image and not feeling quite right within myself, I've put a lot of weight on during therapy and it's dragging me down. Anyway, I've only gone and frogged all of my lovely work, I know.... I know.... I'm trying to look on the bright side. What would I rather have, loads of lovely yarn for a new project or an article that just sits in the corner gathering dust. So I voted for loads of lovely yarn.

Anais waiting to be blocked.

It's not all doom and gloom though. I've finished the sleeves on my Anais Cardi, I couldn't wait to see what it looked like, so I laid it out on the bed, piece by piece. I'm so excited, I can't wait to block it, attach the shoulders and start on the neck band. It looks gorgeous and I know I'm going to get loads of wear out of it.

Very Pretty.

OTN- On The Needles

I have also found a new project for the recently deceased Sunshine Cardi yarn, well.... that didn't take me long did it. Lol.

Shimmer by Kim Hargreaves

Rowan Calmer

On Knit Pro Needles

It's another Kim Hargreaves knit called Shimmer . Easy pattern to remember as it's a 4 row repeat, with alot of yarn overs and knit 2 togethers to give a lace affect. Which in turn helps the garment to knit up quite quickly.

Knitting Swap

These are the squares for the month of July that Caloubear made for my Friendship blanket (the year long swap I mentioned previously in past posts) we should all accumulate twenty-four, 8x8 inch squares at the end of the year. I'm also going to add my own squares in a variety of Autumnal colours, as I want my blanket to be super huge, for the winter.

Loving These

I just had to show these off. I have collected these kind of items for along time but never really shown them off. I now have my mum hooked on them too.

I had to have the card, it has a squirrel in it =P

The little Goth mirror is my favourite item.

Gorjuss by Scottish freelance artist Suzanne Woolcott. One day I hope to be a proud owner of an original piece of her artwork.

Comments that make me smile from ear to ear

The little bags and other bits and pieces I make, have being going down a treat over at My Folksy Shop
The comments people leave really make my day. I craft because it relaxes me and each item is made with genuine love. Pauls role is kind of - quality control. He scrutinizes the work I make and gives me honest feedback, anything from- colour combinations to "theres a loose thread", "that ribbon is twisted", "I like that zip but not that one". Off I go to tweak the not so right bits. Doesn't happen very often but it's got to look good and feel right. 9 times out of 10 I get it right =D.

So here are a few of the comments that have made my day (I haven't included the peoples names, privacy and all that).

Comment : It's such a cute little bag, I LOVE it!

Comment : I adore this, thank you very much!

Comment : Absolutely perfect!!! Love the item and SO well made!!!

Comment : Lovely product, beautifully packaged.

Comment : thankyou Sun Rae this little bag is adorable. the amount of detail in the finishing touches is amazing, i love the tiny little button details on your label tucked away inside as a secret surprise. the size is just right to keep a 100g ball all neat and tidy whilst i'm knitting. x

Thank you to all my customers so far and hello to all the new ones to come.

On The Pod- please click the song titles.

Black Sheep by Metric

Daniel by Bat For Lashes

Tightrope by Janelle Monae

Metronomy by The Look

I'm also listening to this but it makes me cry everytime I hear it: Max Richter -On the Nature of Daylight it's very emotional and very beautiful, the violin (what would life be like without music) makes me feel very teary.

Shirley xx

And The Revised Winner Is........ Kirsty!

2011-07-03T19:20:00.005+01:00

I have had no contact with the original winner of this competition-which is a shame, as the prize is wonderful. I have asked Paul to re-pick a name out of the hat and I have made contact with them. Once they accept the prize I will announce who they are. Shirley x

I still haven't heard any word from the winner of this competition. If she hasn't made contact by Friday, either through email or by leaving a comment on this blog, a new name will be picked out of the hat for the prize.

Thank you to everyone who visited my blog and took the time to leave a comment. Whenever I see a new comment, it makes me smile. Then I always run and announce it to Paul, cause I'm sad like that. =D

Now down to the nitty gritty:

Names written out on to bits of paper- Check ✔
Paper folded tightly- Check ✔
Names placed in hat- Check ✔

Paul picks winner - Check ✔

Paul announces winner- Check ✔

So who's the winner Paul:
Drum roll.......

Well done Kirsty, you're the winner. I have sent you a message. Once again congrats and thank you to everyone who entered.

Shirley xx

Big Baby & Blog Competition

2011-06-19T11:28:00.006+01:00

Only a couple of days left to enter my competition.

Just leave a comment to be in with a chance of winning. If your not in it, you won't win it.

Hi folks , hope you are well!

This week I haven't been able to survive without my knitting firmly by my side. I find when I'm feeling vexed, crafting is my only source of release from my worries, that and watching movies while I knit.

So I opted for and watched Toystory 3

Kody

It's only the third time I've watched this film, nevertheless, it now holds a special place in my heart. Today whilst watching it Paul announced my little nephew Kody looks like Big Baby. Lol! I love the Big Baby character, can't say why, I'm not sure if it's the name, the way its face looks, or the blinky eyes- I had a blinky eyed doll when I was little and I'm sure one of the dolls eyes ended up like Big Babies- anyway, the character just makes me all fuzzy and smiley inside.


Big Baby

So when I told Kody he looked like Big Baby, he replied "I don't like big baby, it's scary". Lol! Bless.

The film then prompted a huge discussion between my sister, oldest nephew and I. My oldest nephew Curtis, confessed that he thought it was the end for the toys, the furnace scene, he said he felt very sad at the thought of them all melting and perishing. Wow! That's a lot of emotion for someone who will be nearly 16 in October hahaha! But to be fair he grew up with Toy Story, so we'll let him off. My sister on the other hand is just embarrassing. She cried at the end of the film when Andy gave his toys away. I shouldn't be surprised at this, she was inconsolable watching Watership Down when the rabbit dies at the end. *sigh* there's no hope for her. Ha Ha Ha!

Oh! and my all time favourite film is Bram Stoker's Dracula starring Gary Oldman. I love the costumes, the music, the scenes, the colours and I also have a secret crush on the Gary Oldman character Prince Vlad. It's a film I will never, ever, tire of. This was watched after Toy Story 3.

So the film was watched to stop me procrastinating. I'm in the middle of deciding a life change and it has resulted in me jumping into not just one new knitting or hooking project but 5 altogether. Yes I'm afraid I've entered the dark side , will I ever finish these projects or are they destined to live as WIP's for the rest of their lives. Lol!

Sunshine Cardigan
Anais Cardigan by Kim Hargreaves
Hunters Socks
Manly Socks
Hawaiian Flower Blanket

I'm fairly flying through my Sunshine Cardigan. I'm now on the sleeves. Won't be long till I'm finished.

I've also started this:

Anais Cardigan by Kim Hargreaves

I'm loving this knit and the pattern repeat is very easy to memorize. Should have this finished in a couple of days the rate I'm going at.

I've decided to knit this in the large size to accommodate my ample bust. I'm using Sirdar Calico instead of Rowan milk cotton. For one I had the Sirdar yarn in my stash and two the Rowan yarn isn't. Also, I really can't afford a splurge at the moment, as pennies are tight. = (

Hunters' Socks

What else have I been up to. Oh yes! Paul celebrated his summer birthday yesterday. His original birth date is in January but as it's so close to Christmas and the weather is usually miserable we decided to move his celebration to Junuary. I made these:

Hunters Socks

These are made in undyed alpaca yarn from a lovely lady in America , Dawn is her name and she kindly sent me a load of goodies for making her socks. I have a dark chocolate version of the yarn and a cream version too and tonnes of it. This yarn is so soft, very cosy but not sock weight. So the Hunters', pattern is ideal for this project as it asks for worsted weight yarn. Now to any normal human being these would just be too hot to wear in summer and probably more suited to January instead of Junuary but not Paul. He wears 2 pairs of socks everyday-not sure why and I've never asked- just a strange boy thing I suppose.

Hawaiian Flowers

My mums birthday is also this month, next week to be precise and keeping with my thrifty theme I decided to make Hawaiian Flowers by Sarah London. This pattern has been in my queue forever but I just never got round to making it until now. Doesn't look much, when you see the picture above. I made 14 flowers of each colour, think there is 5 colours in total. Paul thought I had lost the plot- I just kept churning these little guys out. Then he saw this:

I still have to block it. It's not a normal sized blanket but a leg cozy- for when you're sitting in a chair. My mum mentioned she normally snoozes in her chair when she finishes work and that her legs become very cold, hence the blanket.

I really do hope my mum likes this as I've poured a lot of work into. I will also be very sad to see it go as I'm in love with it. Paul on the other hand hates crochet- he says it's grannyish- stopid boy. Hahahaha!

I'm also loving the weather we've been having. 2 whole days of sunshine, keeping fingers crossed that tomorrow and the day after will be the same. Love hanging out my washing when the weather is this hot. My mum laughs as I'm just as anal as her at hanging out my washing. Underwear goes on one section of the line with one colour of pegs, tops on another section of the line with another colour and so on and so on. I hate when Paul hangs the washing out as he hangs the tops the wrong way and I twitch until it's sorted. I also always wipe the line before putting out my stuff, I never leave my washing out over night and never leave the pegs out on the line-my sister does this and I had to tell her off. I sound like a nutter. I also like to smell the washing while I fold it (not the underwear though, that's just pervy).

Folksy Shop Update

Other news: I have more pattern keepers in my Folksy store and website and also different fabric designed bags. The pyramid bags are going down a treat and have sold quite a few since placing them in my store. Will try to publish some of the lovely comments I've received from customers in my next post.

BLOGOVERSARY COMPETITION

I've just noticed my blogoversary is coming up soon. My little blog is 5 years old in 3 days time (I know, what on earth have I been gibbering about all these years) and to celebrate I'm giving these goodies away:

A Russian Doll Pyramid bag, Brittany Straight Knitting Needles, Set of Bamboo DPn's , 2 pattern keepers and 100g/333m of Merino Tencel in Raspberry by Krafty Koala.

To be in with a chance of winning all these goodies. Just leave a comment. I will ask Paul to randomly select and announce the winner on the 3rd of July at 7pm.

and finally:

Don't worry I won't be using the smiles all the time. Just wanted to be silly and have a change.

Phew! Wasn't that was a long post. Think it's time for a
could have been worse I could have told you I needed the hahahaha!

Shirley xx

Little bit of fame and alot of changes

2011-05-30T23:10:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone, lovely to see you again! Well, it's been quite a week for little moi.

First off, I had to make two purchases a portable light studio and a tripod then I had to get to grips with this big boy.

I paid a lot of money for the camera above when it first came out but I'm ashamed to say I've never really grasped how to use it =( I've always felt frustrated when I've tried to take photos with it, so the majority of the time it has lived in it's camera case. Bad I know.

Whereas for this little guy:

Never out of my hand. That was until Monday of last week when I received not one but three emails about the bags and needle cases that I make. Once I'd picked myself up off the floor, panic set it. The first email was from was from the lovely Linda who asked if it was okay to feature my bags or her blog here. The second email was from KNIT magazine to feature one of my project bags in a forthcoming edition. The third email was from SEW Hip magazine they will be featuring my Watermelon Needle Case in Issue 32 of their magazine yahoo!! The magazines asked if I could send some High Resolution images to them-High Resolution what?????? So after panicking, Googling and sharing the news with the lovely people on the Knitting forum I'm a member of. The lovely Christine came up with this brilliant blog Eskimimi Knits. She has a wonderful, wonderful tutorial on how to get the best use out of your camera and of course, the all important lighting and setting up your photo shoot.

So an hour and a half later I was all set up, lighting studio in middle of front bedroom, lighting set up -two lamps from Ikea hahaha! And my new tripod - which when I set up had one leg shorter than the other two, mmmmm! And when I placed the camera on it, well it was at an angle????? I mean, I don't know much about photography but even I know the cameras meant to sit straight. So after taking it back and exchanging it we were good to go.

I'm soooo pleased with the results. Took me a couple of hours, fiddling around with the settings and not cursing at the Olympus camera and this is what I produced-with the help of a little editing in Photoshop, of course.
Taaaa-daaaa!

Owl Pyramid Bag-Olympus Camera shot


Owl Pyramid Bag-Sony Camera shot

Russian Doll Bag -Olympus Camera

Russian Doll Bag -Sony Camera

Russian Doll Abstract Bag-Olympus Camera

Russian Doll Abstract Bag-Sony Camera


Russian Doll Abstract Bag-Olympus Camera

So my aim now is, to always try and take decent photos for my little blog. Lol!

Oh! And all the above bag designs are now available in my Folksy store =D.

Second Change: The Tutorial-Knitting and Tutorial Crochet tabs at the top of my blog, are now active and 3 new pages are live in this, more will be added over the next couple of weeks. So be sure to check back regularly ;D

You may also have noticed another change- the appearance of my blog. Whilst composing this post on Saturday I decided to take a step back from it and found it gave me a headache just looking at it. Hahaha! I deemed my blog to be too busy, trashy, with a lot of colour clashing, hence the reason I've simplified it. I'm quite content with the look now, it's easier to manoeuvre around and less sickening to the eye. Lol!
Also, in the future if I want to change the look I plan on just substituting the background colour from blue to whatever takes my fancy-simples- hahaha!

Now for another change- I actually have some knitting to show on my blog, yes the blog that's meant to be about knitting ;P

I currently have this on the needles:

Sunshine Cardi by Anni Howard

This design asks for 4ply yarn but I've had a pack of Rowan Calmer sitting in my stash forever and I was just itching to use it.

The colour I'm using isn't really a sunshine yellow in fact it reminds me of Angel Delight pudding. The shade is actually called Delight (489) so I'm not far off with my description.

Now this knit is either going to go really well or be a complete and utter disaster. You see I hate swatching. I hate it, hate it, hate it, with a vengeance. Swatching makes me want to scoop my eyes out with spoons- over the top, I know- but to be honest I've never, ever swatched a garment in my whole knitting life and I'm not about to start now and anyway I've always got away with it. My Sunshine Cardi will probably be a complete disaster now after my rant. Lol!

Anyway! I'm progressing along with this knit quite nicely and I'm thoroughly enjoying it. The yarn is yummy and the pattern is interesting enough to stop me getting bored (I'm an impatient person at heart).
I have already completed the ribbing detail and advancing up the body of the cardi very fast. I've taken it off the needles once and placed it on spare yarn to try around my body and I'm very pleased with the results so far.

Also off the needles is this:


Molly Ringwald by Michele Rose Orne Molly Ringwald knitted in Malabrigo yarn in coral I love this top so much. It was fun to knit and the detail around the neck is so flattering.

And The Winner Is........

2011-05-17T19:01:00.002+01:00

First off, I'd like to thank all of you who have taken an interest in Shirley and her talents. What she does through her love of crafts is very genuine and the very likes of this wee competition is the kind of event that I hope should be one of many to kick-start a fledgling career in what takes her to a place she should probably have been a long time ago...

Okay, here we go.

I imagine a few of you will be disappointed but I thank all of you for taking part at least - that means a hell of a lot ! The entry I've chosen is fairly simple, but it's really because of how the the words run together and compliment one another... That being 'Daisy Haze' !

So congratulations to our winner and a very big thank you to all who took the time to post and show an interest. For what it's worth, I hope you all keep following Shir and who knows, you might just be the next person to pick up a future item that we need your input for.
Keep looking in and keep an eye open for forthcoming events i.e. Blogoversary!

Thanks y'all.

Paul x

Shirley pops in and pushes Paul out of the way!

Congratulations Polarpurplebear aka Loupylou on the Phoenix Knitting forum. I'm glad I asked Paul to pick the winner as it would have been so hard for me to chose. Some of the names where outstanding. Paul spent a couple of hours looking at the bag and looking at the suggestions ummmming and aghhhing all the while. It was a tough competition to call.
He's now sitting drinking a well earned beer and playing Red Dead Redemption on his PS3.
Lets leave him to do his killing, shall we.

Shirley xx

Made By Sun Rae shop update plus Competition!

2011-05-13T22:44:00.020+01:00

Sewing needle case

Hi everyone, hope you are well! I've been very busy this past week or so, making items for my Folksy shop and my website. I have now introduced Sewing Needle Cases and more Pyramid Knitting Project bags. The new Pyramid Bags come as a standard size 7"high and 7"wide. Heavier designer fabrics have been used in some and they are fully lined throughout. If these prove to be successful, I will endeavour to produce more in other colour waves.

Sun Flower Passion

Watermelon

Sherbert

The Sewing Needle Cases are reinforced with interfacing and heavy duty wadding to stop needles protruding out and also to help it maintain its shape.
*****Update***** Paul has just come up the stairs to spy on me and has also confessed my Sewing Cases are very cute-not me- the sewing cases Lol.
Pyramid Bags

Flower Power Love

Flower Patch

Daisy Haze (name suggested by Loupylou)


Sherbert Dib-Dab

Marshmallow

The last Pyramid Bag is made in a lighter weight fabric i.e. cotton and fully lined.

On Safari

The heavier fabric pyramid bags cost £12.00 whilst the lighter fabric ones cost £10.00. The Sewing Needle Cases cost £6.00 each. All these items ~~will be available from 6pm tonight~~ are now available on my Folksy page and website.

Competition
In this post you may have noticed one of the pyramid bag designs caption reads ??????
This pouch doesn't have a name :( . To be in with a chance of winning the pouch, please just leave a comment with your suggestion of what I should call it. ~~I will leave this competition open until 8pm on Sunday 15th May.~~ Due to the maintenance glitch I will be extending the competition closing date and time until, Monday 16th of May at 7pm. I will ask my O/H to pick the best name and he will announce the winner on Tuesday 17th May at 7pm.

Goodluck!
Shirley xx

Missing Post!

2011-05-13T20:50:00.000+01:00

Naughty blogger!

Well this is, exciting isn't it....... I thought I'd actually broken my blog when it crashed and my post disappeared =D but it seems it was just a maintenance glitch. And it had to happen on the very day, I launch new stock for my website, Folksy store and a competition to boot. Oh! well not the end of the world.

With regards to the missing post and competition-well, I'm going to give blogger to the end of tonight to see if it re-appears. If it doesn't (ever the pessimist) I will re-post in the morning (9am GMT). I have already contacted the three guests who submitted there suggestions, so they don't miss out.

So all we have to do is prod blogger with a big stick and watch this space-the post will reappear, it will, it will. Lol

Shirley xx

Ms Messy!

2011-05-06T20:26:00.037+01:00

Hi everyone, I hope you all had a Happy May Day holiday. I've decided to take some photos of my workplace. The workplace that my O/H and I recently put together, just a little section in the front bedroom. Somewhere I can work and not be disturbed, somewhere I can make a mess and not get into trouble-well I'm not called Little Mr Ms Messy for nothing you know!!


Mr Ms Messy

Now I don't just make a mess, I make a mess in style. I tend to leave things lying around for a while, I'm talking- fabric, scissors, pins, wool etc you get the jist- much to the dismay of my O/H. I do eventually tidy up, however I tidy up so well I can never find what I'm looking for, ever, ever again. 'Sigh' The only area of my work space that is clear is the space above my desk. Well it's a bit too high up to pin garments, block items and doodle, just wouldn't be very comfy and I think the shelves would probably fall down if I even attempted to sit on them- not good. So instead I adorn them with The Beautiful, The Cute and The Grotesque.

The Beautiful is very girly, loads of colour in the form of pinks, red and florally items, these make my heart skip whilst they makes boys sick. Hahahaha!

This litle one flowers every year


Picked from my Aunts house when she passed away

Then we have The Cute


Who's a lovely little sheep then? Mwah! a big smaker on your sheepy lips!

And then we have

The Grotesque these items reflect the darker more sinister side of my personality. I'm only joking, or am I ?

These little guys are from Tim Burton's "The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories." they're hideous but very cool and I love them. I have all the box sets from this series and I swap them around when I get fed up looking at their faces. Told you I wasn't a very nice person lol!

I do have more items on my shelves but I shall leave these for another day. Don't want to give too much of myself away.

This week I have also started quite a few craft projects.
I don't think I have photographed any of my projects for quite sometime now! Very naughty! I promise my next post will contain a lot of crafting bits and bobs.

On the iPod this week:

'I know I'd go from rags to riches
If you would only say you cared,
And though my pockets may be empty
I'd be a millionaire'
ELVIS PRESLEY

Awesome Wedding Day!

2011-04-29T22:07:00.003+01:00

Congrats to William and Kate. What a wonderful and beautiful day to witness. I think this day was extra special as I had followed his mother's wedding to Prince Charles, then watched with great sadness at the lost little boys, attending their mother's funeral.

This was my favourite scene, it placed a smile on my lips-along with the young Verger, cartwheeling down the aisle once all the guests had departed =D

Humour and light heartedness, bringing the Royals in touch with the younger generation. Simply beautiful.

Goodbye 30's, Hello 40's!

2011-04-25T19:33:00.002+01:00

Prestonfield House Drinks Lounge

I celebrated my 40th birthday last week surrounded by my family. My mum asked if I felt forty to which I replied "No not really, cause in my heart and head I'm still five" hahahaha. To be honest, I think it has affected my mum more than it's affected me, she has been reminiscing all week. Today she text me to say that 40 years today she was returning home from the hospital with me and that I was 6lb, 2 and a half oz's. A very random text, still, it put a smile on my face.

Anyway enough waffling on to my surprises and celebrations:

Main Entrance

My Birthday treat possessed a touch of decadence, romance, drama and magic. It was a night that felt so special and one I will never forget. My partner decided, for my 40th birthday celebration we would dine in style at the Rhubarb Restaurant From the creator of the Witchery situated on the Royal Mile, near Edinburgh Castle, James Thomson's latest venture is the most opulent and prestigious to date and situated in the heart of Prestonfield House.

Entrance Hall and Reception

Entrance Hall

Drinks Lounge

My wonderful and very handsome O/H Paul. Looking very fine in his suit jacket and tie.

Striking a pose.

Me, I hate having my photo taken. Can you tell? I look like I'm going to beat Paul up with the camera, haha

Champers for the celebration.

A Little Restaurant Info:

"Exceptional cuisine is based on exceptional Scottish produce, much locally sourced from small artisan suppliers and inspirational wines come from an award-winning cellar. And the name? Rhubarb was inspired by the discovery that Prestonfield was the first estate in Scotland to propagate rhubarb in the eighteen century."

Monday Before My Birthday
Four days before Prestonfield House, my sister, mum and myself dined at One Ten Bar and Grill, Glasgow.

This picture really captures my sisters true character, we are both mad as hatters. In the next photo you will see my mums reaction.

My poor mum, not once did she tell us to grow up or behave. She was trully mortified by our behaviour and silliness. We don't get out very much lol

Birthday Presents
I was very spoiled for my birthday and received loads of lovely gifts. It's certainly a birthday I will remember for a very long time.

I received Wonders of The Universe book by Professor Brian Cox

The Broons Gairdenin Wisdoms book

I'm a huge Dave Grohl and Foo Fighters fan, you can hear this blasting out of the cars speakers as I drive by.

Silver necklace from Paul's parents.

Plus tons of clothes from Fat Face -I'm a huge fan of this brand. If I had the money I would buy the whole shop.

My Birthday Flowers

On the iPod :

This week (I also received the Elbow and The Strokes album for my birthday)

A Whole Lot of Things Going On!

2011-04-07T21:00:00.004+01:00

Mothers Day Gift: Well Dressed Bunny by Barbara Prime

In the United Kingdom, there was a celebration called Mothering Sunday, which fell on the fourth Sunday of Lent (3 April in 2011). Most historians believe that it originated from the 16th century Christian practice of visiting one's mother church annually on Laetere Sunday which meant that most mothers would be reunited with their children on this day when young apprentices and young women in servitude were released by their masters that weekend. As a result of secularization, it was then principally used to show appreciation to one's mother, although it is still recognized in the historical sense by some churches, with attention paid to Mary the mother of Jesus Christ.
By 1935 Mothering Sunday was less celebrated in Europe. The idea was revived by the American soldiers who came to fight in World War II who celebrated Anna Jarvis' Mother's Day on the second Sunday in May. People from Ireland and UK started celebrating Mother's Day on the fourth Sunday of Lent, the same day on which Mothering Sunday had been celebrated before it disappeared. Some traditions were revived, such as the tradition of eating cake on that day, although they now eat simnel cake, instead of the cakes that were traditionally prepared at that time.
Mothering Sunday can fall at the earliest on 1 March (in years when Easter Day falls on 22 March) and at the latest on 4 April (when Easter Day falls on 25 April).

Miss Dior Cherie

Natalie Portman is a very busy young woman. Oscar winner and awaiting her baby's birth in a few months time, she's now also the new face of Miss Dior Cherie.

Her natural beauty really shines throughout the promotional advert displaying a cheeky, cute side similar to Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffanys.

I would have never have thought of trying this scent before, but now Natalie is the new face I may just have to investigate.

I would also like to add, whenever this advert appears on television all knitting, sewing and any other hobbies cease. I'm immobolised through awe.

James Brown London- Intensive Hair Mask

My hair is naturally curly underneath at the back and usually my hair is chemically straightened on boards, a process that takes forever but with stunning results and super-duper straight hair- even when left to dry naturally. So without a doubt my favourite product of the moment for using between salon visits, is the aforementioned -Intensive Hair Mask by James Brown London. I first came across the product when I received a free sample tube with a popular women's magazine and I've been hooked ever since The tube prevents you from using too much product. It smells divine -unique as floral scents go, really classy and natural- not all chemically and synthetic. It makes my hair the softest it's ever been since I was a child and the shiniest too. Not salon expensive but not so cheap you wonder what's really in it.

March Blanket Squares: From Joy

Think I mentioned in a previous post that the knitting forum I am a member of has organised a blanket swap. Whereby each month we send two knitted or crocheted squares to our swap partner- person is different each month. The swap is ongoing each month of this year, by the end of the year we will each have enough squares to make a friendship blanket for ourselves. Which I think is very cool.
I think the squirrel square is going to be the centre piece for my blanket. :D

Squares I made for my swap partner: I think it's a done deal I will be making an owl square for my blanket. Watch this space, Lol

Day Out

My mum and I made a decisive move to take a day out yesterday, she wanted to raise my spirits and cheer me up.
However I had the deed of driving everywhere, so I don't know how that was going to lighten my mood, lol.

We ended up in the lovely little village of Aberfoyle. The village lies at the heart of Loch Lomond and is without a doubt the most important gateway to the Trossachs and has something for everyone, including those who love old mysteries. See below:

The Reverend Kirk

Robert Kirk, 7th son of the minister of Aberfoyle was born in 1644AD. He had a fascination and belief in the magical world of Fairies. Robert also became a minister and after preaching at Balquhidder he came to the Aberfoyle ministry. He should have been remembered as the person who provided the first translation to Gaelic of the book of Psalms, however it was the publication of his book "The Secret Commonwealth of Elves, Fauns, and Fairies" in 1861 which was to fire the imagination of historians as the Reverend Robert Kirk disappeared in mysterious circumstances.

Legend has it that the inhabitants of the Secret Commonwealth, namely Fairies and the like were furious at the Reverend for disclosing all their secrets and they planned revenge. Daily Robert Kirk would walk from the manse to Doon Hill, one day in May 1692 he did not return. Legend tells us that at Doon hill the Fairies appeared and took him to the underground world of the Fairies. The pine tree that still exists at the summit of Doon Hill, the only evergreen on this forested hill is said to contain his imprisoned spirit.

Another part of the legend states that somehow the Reverends wife was given one chance to retrieve her husband from the Fairy kingdom. She was told that he would appear to her once during a service at the Old Kirk. When this happened she was to throw a knife at him. In the event she could not bring herself to throw the knife and so lost her husband forever.

That's one way to get rid of your husband and have a quiet life. Lol
Do you believe in Fairies? I do.

The Joy of Daydreaming!

2011-03-31T00:43:00.004+01:00

"A daydream is a meal at which images are eaten. Some of us are gourmets, some gourmands, and a good many take their images precooked out of a can and swallow them down whole, absent-mindedly and with little relish." ~W.H. Auden

Apparently in the late 19th century daydreaming was held in disrepute in society and was associated with laziness. Some people argued that those who had daydreams were filled with grandiose fantasies and self-gratifying attempts at "wish fulfilment". In the 1950s, some psychologists even warned parents not to let their children daydream, for fear that the children may be sucked into neurosis or psychosis.

Leopard dreaming

Truthfully I can't remember the last time, in a long time, where I have just sat in my chair and suddenly drifted off into my own little world, you see, the therapy I am undergoing for PTSD is very quite intrusive and hasn't allowed me to find peace inside myself for nearly a whole year now. The therapy makes me feel so spaced out and at times, numb and detached. I can quite easily just gawp blankly at the wall, no thoughts, no feeling, just zilch. That was until yesterday. Yesterday was totally different. A whole half hour just disappeared, I was fully aware of what was happening and this time I wasn't just staring at the wall - I was daydreaming. I was daydreaming about putting together a Happy Box, a box that I will fill with objects and treasures that make me joyful when I'm down. A box full of my secrets and wishes. Well in reality, I wasn't dreaming about the box itself, I was dreaming about what makes me happy. What do I find comfort in? What sight, sound, smell makes me happy? And anyone who has suffered from PTSD will know the last sentence is crippling and downright terrifying to say the least. These three senses can cause nightmares, flashbacks and quite likely foreboding, if the trauma is left untreated.

So where did my daydreaming take me? What makes me happy? Where do I start? My first daydream ( in no particular order) I have a fondness for:

-The feeling of t-shirt material between my hands, although it has to be cold.
-The feeling of velvet, the way the pile moves under my fingers
-Freshly laundered bedsheets, (this peeves my O/H off, as I always manage to jump into bed before him) so I gain all the newness to myself.
-The softness of my dogs ears.
-Frozen soil, crunching under my feet
-Scuffing my feet through fallen leaves.
-Period dramas such as Pride and Prejudice, Bleak House, Tess of the D'ubervilles and Emma.
-Michael Nymans soundtrack for The piano
-Gattaca soundtrack
-The innocence and naivety of the character Amelie in the film of the same name
-The Flumps, Bagpuss, Bod, Timmy Time and Button Moon
-The smell of warm bread
-Falafel
-The smell of coconut, chocolate and vanilla
-The sun on my face
-Wading into the sea
-My dog sleeping and snoring at my feet
-Red gerberas

There is additional dreaming but I won't bore you with a huge list.

Whilst daydreaming, I may have also had a smile on my face, which freaked Paul out and lead him to ask what I was doing. I couldn't even reply as I was still lost in my own little world- Squirrel world ; D

Anyway, enough daydreaming. I have been a very busy squirrel, spring is here and I'm out of hibernation and been squirreling away (sorry). I've been getting to grips with loads and loads of knitting, I've been very occupied, in truth no housework or spring cleaning has taken place for the past few days and I was doing so well on the cleaning front too, what a shame..... Not lol!

Little booties-this pattern is so adorable: Ruth's Perfect Baby Booties by Ruth Bennett knitted in Sirdar Calico- cream

Another adorable baby pattern:Tiramisu Baby Blanket by Alicia Paulson. Crocheted blanket with an easy repeat pattern. Decided to use ricrac to weave around blanket border. Used ribbon for the bow which was secured in place with a teddy bear button.

Waistcoat from Sirdar Early Knits booklet. Yarn used Regia Extra Twist Merino in Greens, button band and arm edging- yarn is Regia Extra Merino Twist in Chocolate.

Baby Mittens used Sirdar Calico in Turquoise the booties behind are Chaussons Mignons in Sirdar Calico Turquoise colourwave.

Makes a very beautiful baby set.

Pattern is Dear Wee Baby Singlet by Justine Turner knitted in Regia sock yarn by Design wave by Kaffe Fassett.

Improvised design, faces are from Monkey by Mary Ann Stephens on a basic roll brim baby hat.

Both items knitted in Sirdar Calico Cream and Dark Blue.

Baby Sweater Vest by Bley Hack knit in Sirdar Calico Turquoise and topped with Teddy Bear buttons.

Enchanted Wrist Purse by Michelle Heaney.
I'm loving this and if Paul ever asked me to marry him (wishful thinking) I would make this to accessorise my outfit for the big day

On the iPod this week

And

Also listening to Cosmic Dancer by Marc Bolan & T-Rex

And

Other activities on my agenda, that is other than sitting on my behind knitting. Decorating the living room. Paul would like the main feature wall this colour:

Dulux Red Currant

And my colour choice is this:

Dulux Blue Babe

I do like red- it's my favourite colour. However I do think it is a touch overbearing, loud and angry for our living room. Whilst the blue is calming, in fashion and will go with the sofa (cream cord) and curtains (rich cream) - think I may need a better argument lol. I wonder if I will win the war of the living room! I've never seen an angry Squirrel before. Have you? Wonder if they're any good at fighting mmmmm! Only one way to find out I suppose. Lol!

Paul "the blue will look too cold" my reply "well stick a jumper on then" Squirrel 1, Paul 0. Lol!

-

Famous People I have Something In Common With!

2011-03-14T16:59:00.002Z

Amanda Holden, Corey Feldman, Dani Behr, David Tennant, Mark Wahlberg, Michael C Hall, Penny Lancaster, Scott Maslen, Tess Daly, Tom Ward and Winona Ryder.

All these poor sods and I have something in common! We all turn or have turned the big 4-0 this year. Mines is but a month away today and to say I'm crapping myself is an understatement. Why? Well birthdays as you get older, don't retain their ability to dazzle like they do when you are young! I don’t feel that old. People tell me I don’t look that old. But there isn't the same spark of excitement that I felt when I turned 5, 13 or 21, I wonder why…? Also at the tender age of 13, I thought anyone older than 30 was passed it. Funny how my outlook has changed for that statement. I didn't feel any different when I moved from my 20's into my 30's, so hopefully I won't feel any pain when I move into my 40's. As my mum said to me today, you're still my little girl and I replied "Do you know something mum? I still feel 5" and then there's my other half who constantly tells me to grow up.

Somehow I don't think I ever will!

Squirrel xx

The Winners!

2011-03-07T21:20:00.001Z

Thank you to everyone who left a comment on my post, the winning numbers are:

The winners are Mouse, Mazzam Again and Ozzy Blackbeard congratulations to you all. I will pop a little something in the post to you within the next two weeks. If you can email me your address to sqyguy at hotmail dot.com or pm me on Ravelry or Pheonix.

Squirrel xx

Pay It Forward Comp Ends Tonight!

2011-03-07T10:15:00.004Z

Competition is now closed I will be picking the winners and displaying the results before 9pm.

You could still be in with a chance to win. Just leave a comment on the post below and I will randomly select three winners after 8pm tonight. The competition is open to all nationalities. X

Pay It Forward Competiton!

2011-02-28T16:56:00.008Z

The Competition is now closed I will be picking the winners and displaying the results before 9pm.

Hi! It's nice and sunny here today, still a bit on the nippy front and I'm still stunned at seeing my first short and tshirt wearer of the year. It's ((((February)))) put some more clothes on lol. What is it they say "Ne'er cast a clout til Mays out" i.e. don't cast any clothes off until May is out of the way. Anyway competition time:

I would like to say a big thank-you to Josiekitten for my Pay It Forward gift that I won after leaving a comment on her blog.
These are the wonderful gifts that where looking up at me when I opened the parcel.

Beautiful pink, lilac and white washcloth. A chocolate sheep nom, nom, very yummy hic!!! Heart shaped soap that Josiekittens friend made it smells heavenly.

So now for my part in Paying It Forward.

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning a little gift is to leave me a comment between now and the 7th of March 2011 on this date. I'll randomly select three people to be winners! Go on -it's easy peasy, you could be a winner. xx

Off the Needles:

I've managed to finish a couple of items during the month of February. Knitting is very theraputic and my constant companion.....keeps my fingers and hands out of mischief.
I'm not sure why most of them are toys it's not like I have a kid to knit for but hey-hoo! I enjoyed making them. First up is:

Well Dressed Bunny
by Barbara Prime

I just love this little guy to bits. He's knitted in Sirdar Double Knitting, his waistcoat is knit in Regia 4ply sock yarn. His little jacket is knitted in Navy Merino yarn and topped off with a duck button. Very dapper don't you think?
My mums in love with him however I can't bear to part with him, so I'm going to make my mum the little girl wabbit version, she's very purty. Shhhhhhh! it's surprise.

Bunny Blanket Buddy

Knit in Sirdar Calico, I doubled the strands whilst knitting to give this item more structure. The yarn is lovely and soft just right for a little person to squidge and bite on. I'm just not sure of it's facial expression looks quite scary- might change it to a softer look =D

Owl Mittens

Lovely close up shot.

I love, love, love these. Even though they look a bit oddly coloured. Knit in Easyknits Merino- Gunmetal and Zauberball- Cranberry.

February Blanket Squares by Mazzam

What I'm listening to:

I'm now going to settle down next to the window, with my new Crochet Today Magazine, a cup of tea, my ipod and my knitting. Have a lovely day everyone, speak to you soon.

Sorry For The Lack Of Posts!

2011-02-17T09:30:00.002Z

I'm going to be taking a week away from my blog.

The family has been hit with a difficult bereavement and we are all devastated at the loss. I just need to take time for myself and my family to heal.

I will be back in a weeks time with a Pay It Forward competition.

Sorry xx

Woooo-hooooo!

2011-02-03T10:52:00.004Z

My little blog has nearly reached it's 1000 U.K visitor. The next person to arrive on my blog from the U.K. after:
A visitor from Plymouth viewed "Squirrels Knitting Conquests" 12 hours 1 min ago

Will receive a free gift! Please just private message me, tell me how you found my blog, what browser you used i.e mozilla firefox etc, what your address is and I will post the item out to you!

Shirley x
sqyguy at hotmail dotcom

CONGRATULATIONS PINKSHOES, YOUR THE WINNER!!

Twit-Twooooo!

2011-01-27T12:44:00.006Z

Did I ever tell you that I have a fascination for lots of different wildlife and some insects! Few of my favourite animals include sheep, highland cows, elephants, giraffes but my all time favourite apart from my dog -who is wild, ( I will tell you about that later) is the barn owl. The barn owl is mysterious and that's what fascinates me about these beautiful sharp featured birds. The barn owl is....

Elegant, calm, confident and truly stunning. Quite Regal looking in a sense.

And powerful.

So what better way to celebrate my fascination for this beautiful creature- than to cast on a pair of mittens, not just any old mittens though Owl Mittens by SpillyJame. I've decided I'm not going to make the full mitten but the fingerless type with just one owl on each hand.

I'm also being a tad thrifty, the yarn on the left is the remainder of the skein I was using for Norie- mmm! yes I did finish it in one day and it's blocking while we speak. I will post photos of that tomorrow. Now back to the owls, the other yarn is Schoppel Wolle Zauberball in Cranberry, beautiful rich reds, delicious to knit with.

This is my progress so far:

I'm really enjoying this pattern and can't wait to finish them and show them off, oh! and did I tell you they're all for me, cause I'm selfish like that lol!

Oh nearly forgot the wild dog story. My O/H and I had an appointment very early on yesterday morning and we never have any problems about leaving the dog alone or giving him the run of he house.

This is the wild thing.
Anyway we arrive home an hour later and just manage to open the door and he flies out, nearly knocking us over, he's all panicky. We are then hit with this awful smell of gas that is overpowering the whole house. I manage to calm the dog down by placing him in the backgarden and leaving him there whilst my O/H investigates the cause of the gas leak. There's no gas leak, my bad puppers has been trying to get at some food from the work top- now he hardly looks like he's starving- next to the cooker and somehow managed to hit and twist one of the knobs on the cooker to turn the gas on. I dread to think what would have happened if we hadn't arrived home when we did and thank heavens we don't smoke or there would be no house, O/H, me or dog. Thankfully Chievs is ok and doesn't seem any the worst after his hair brain caper, we still have a house and we are still alive, however, we will need to be more vigiliant about leaving food around and we will need to turn the gas off when we go out anywhere. Wonder what mischief he will concoct up for next time!!!

Decision Time!

2011-01-26T13:14:00.001Z

Thank you everyone for taking part in my poll. I've decided -well I think I was always going to make it, if not now, then in the very near future. I've decided to go for Norie. I've had my eye on the pattern for a long time but I've had the perfect yarn for longer. I loved looking at the skein, squishing it, stroking it but just couldn't bring myself to wind it into a cake, just felt too final-that if I wound it into a cake too soon I would have to use it and it would probably be used for the wrong pattern. Don't get me wrong I love winding a skein into a cake but it has to be when the pattern feels right-strange I know- and this one certainly does, I'm thoroughly enjoying it :

The yarn I'm using is by Jon Dunn it's called Gun Metal and is a Merino/Cashmere/Nylon mix. It's beautiful and soft. I'm not usually into knitting with grey, I prefer bright colours, like reds and purples but this just feels so right.

I can see myself wearing this hat alot, when it's finished.

It's soooo cute. I just love the Cats Paw pattern, close up they really do look like Cats Paws-sweet! The pattern is so well written, I can actually see myself finishing the hat today (which is quite embarrassing, as I only cast it on this morning) as I'm enjoying it so much.

Anyway! Did I tell you I ordered more yarn. This time it was too big to be shoved through the letterbox. I don't know why I bought it, I really don't have a project in mind, I just sort of had to have it. It wasn't very expensive, I bought it on Ebay from this seller Kingcraig Fabrics

I bought 2 of each in Verde, Pistachio and Navy. The yarn - 100g balls of Merino/Angora mix at £3 each. I think that really is a bargain! I don't have a clue what I'm going to make with them, even though they have been wound in to cakes already, I bought them like that, honest. And do you know what, I may even order some more, at that price I would be stupid not to =D.

Squishyness!

2011-01-25T11:34:00.007Z

I love when I hear the postie pushing, rustling parcels through my letterbox and they land on the floor with a thud. For one, I know for sure it's not a bill, or two, junkmail. It's even better when you make it to the letter box and there are two parcels teasing you to open them. Who am I to keep them waiting! I already know what's inside them, no I'm not psychic, I've read the labels. lol!

The first little parcel is from a swap I'm curently involved in, on the Pheonix Knitting Forum . Everyone participating in the swap has to Knit (or crochet) 2 X 8" squares in the colour scheme of your partners choice. The squares are made up in DK weight yarn, then blocked to exactly 8" so it's easier when sewing them together. Each month we send to a different person. The swap is ongoing each month of this year, by the end of the year we will each have enough squares to make a friendship blanket for ourselves. Which I think is very cool!

Following squares: Made by Pinkshoes.

My first parcel, beautifully wrapped in pinkish red tissue and white ribbon.

First square. My colour scheme is Autumnal colours.

Second square. My swapee has advised me there is grey in this square to represent the typical Central Scotland sky- which I have to add is very true.

We also send a postcard of where we live, to our partners, makes it more personal-well it is a friendship blanket you know.

My second parcel of squishyness is from the lovely Jon from Easy Knits. Once again I am thrilled with the club selection

The yarn is called ember, mixture of superwash merino and bamboo.

Also included in the parcel- Lush handcream and sock pattern.
I'm really in love with the colour of this yarn. I would have to say- these are all my ideal colours rolled into one.
Well I'm going to sign off now. Think I might just sit, ohhhhing and aaghhhhing, squidging and squeezing for best part of the day. Bliss!!

Undecided!

2011-01-24T15:34:00.005Z

Please help me decide what I should make next. I have an awful case of startitis i.e. I want to start all of them. However I'm putting my foot down and I'm only allowed to cast on one. See directions on how to vote below:

Online Surveys & Market Research

TO VOTE: Just hit comment on the blue bar above and a new page will be displayed, then hit vote on the top left and cast your vote Shirley x

Weird Things That Pop Into My Head!

2011-01-23T19:30:00.002Z

My O/H is sitting watching a film and I'm sitting on the computer, smiling to myself like a goon lol. What am I smiling about, a silly ditty my mum used to sing to me when I was wee. Haven't got a clue why it has popped into my head, perhaps it's something to do with the name of the film my O/H is watching -Solomon Kane. The ditty in my head is this:

SOLOMON GRUNDY

Solomon Grundy,
Born on Monday,
Christened on Tuesday,
Married on Wednesday,
Took ill on Thursday,
Worse on Friday,
Died on Saturday,
Buried on Sunday:
This is the end
Of Solomon Grundy.

My mum has just told me her dad used to sing it to her when she was wee, looks like a family tradition. Personally, I don't think there's much hope for me.

Countdown to the Big 4-0

2011-01-23T17:30:00.004Z

Made By Sun Rae Products

2011-01-23T12:51:00.002Z

Made by Sun Rae: Item prices range from £6 to £20. All items wrapped in tissue at no extra cost. Items can be found here: sun rae yarn and Made by Sun Rae

Shirley x

Yahooooo!

2011-01-13T12:20:00.001Z

Weighed myself this morning, looked at the scales with one eye, didn't believe what I was seeing so popped on them again and I was pleasantly suprised. In one week I have managed to lose 3lbs. So I'm on a high and walking around with a smile on my face. Feeling very smug! Long may it last and here's to losing another 3lbs next week, fingers crossed, if I lose less it's really no biggy as long as I lose something. Oh! and I know it's only 3lbs but I can already feel a slight difference around my middle, just under my bust it doesn't protrude as much anymore =D

I'm Too Scared To Look!

2011-01-13T12:17:00.002Z

Armed with a tape measure and shaky hands I decided I needed to see after 6 days if I had lost anything, from my wobbly bits. Standing half naked in the livingroom with tape measure in hand, notepad and pen lying on sofa I started measuring. I was too scared to look at the tape measure, pinched at a number between my hands, quick peek, standing in disbelieve and denial at what I was seeing. So I measured myself a 2nd and 3rd time just to be sure, yip the numbers were correct. I had lost 4cm off my hips, 2cm off my waist, 4cm off my arms and a whopping 6cm from under my bust, the only downer, I hadn't lost anything off my thighs = ( but heho, it's my upper body I need to lose weight from and after 6 days, I feel it's a good start. = D
Wonder what my weigh in will bring! = $

Oh Dear..........

2011-01-07T23:52:00.002Z

......what can the matter be? Poor wee Squirrel, is going on a diet-tee (sorry I had to try and make it rhyme lol).
Why! Oh why! Do I make New Year Resolutions because now I have to stick to them. Yes, yesterday I decided to take the plunge and joined Weightwatchers online, aaaargh! I have to admit, the diet does actually work, I lost 2 stone in 2001 but then I put it back on again a few years ago, sigh! So, I'm now a little lighter in the bank balance area, hopefully in a few months time I will be alot lighter around my body area. My O/H's reply "yes, I will soon be able to chuck you over my shoulder". Hmmmm! "caveman" springs to mind. Then again maybe he is thinking of proposing if I lose alot of weight, perhaps my first thought is more accurate :D

So to motivate me, I have decided on a weightloss ticker:

This is me, running in the park, losing loads of weight. Fingers crossed and oh! skinny clothes here I come.

Intentions For The New Year!

2011-01-01T12:40:00.001Z

1. Exercise. Seriously, it’s time to get off my backside at least 3 times a week
My mantra is- Just.Do.It.
2. Work on portion control. I eat good food, I just eat too much of it.
3. Take care of my skin. I’m not as young as I used to be and it’s time to be proactive about it. (Big four-o this year)
4. Read more books. More reading has decreased significantly since knitting took
over my life.
5. Spin more frequently. I may even take up 10 minutes a day again.
6. Sketch more designs for my website. I don't draw as much, anymore.
7. To take up the offer of studying Buddhism.
8. To beat the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, I've been suffering from.
9. Allow myself to be happy. This can be difficult for me, I think mostly due to the major traumas I have had in my life. I think somehow my mind gets all twisted and believes that if I am too happy something bad will happen – so I look for problems. It’s unconscious but I’d like to be more conscious about it and just allow myself to feel happiness without worrying about what will happen next.
10. Live in the moment.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:49:00.002Z

Goodbye and good riddance 2010 and hello

Happy New Year! xx

Christmas Past (2010)

2011-01-01T00:34:00.000Z

This is my new decoration. I have found myself staring at it and wondering what it would be like to live in it. lol
Well Christmas seems like weeks ago but I still need to write a blog post about this year’s holiday – if for no other reason than knowing that I will want to go back and read about it next year.

On Christmas Eve, Paul and I finished our food shopping, then we had our usual scurrying around trying to wrap each others presents-without the other seeing. I then made and decorated my traditional cookies, which I promptly wrapped before the cookie monster i.e Paul, stole them. There were alot of cookies this year.

Christmas morning. with my sister, niece, nephews, Paul and my mum.

My mum and sister exchanging photos on their mobiles, of the kids unwrapping their presents.

Sister and Kody looking at photos

Cool dude Kody with his Yoda t-shirt

My sisters dog, Summer joining in the fun.

My Christmas gifts from Paul (mmm! I mean Santa)

I was good this year, loads of cool pressies. Audio Chi headphones (cool pressie, cool sound), Fossil watch, Musical box loaded with Shortbread, Highland Soldier tin-with more Shortbread, Russian Nesting Doll, Knitting Nancy, DVD of Scrooge with Jim Carey, a Gruffalo, Fatface bag, scarf, hat and Hoodie. My super cool Merrle boots. I was a super spoiled Squirrel this year :D

Knitting Nancy with her cool Mary Jane shoes.

More pressies from a knitting swap. These are from Knittingpat on www.knittingforums.org.uk

Swap Pressie from Princess, again from the above group.

Snuggly gloves for my sister. Knotty-gloves by Julia Mueller.
I had a lovely Christmas this year, surrounded by my wonderful family, who I love very much. xx

Special Offers!

2010-12-28T19:43:00.003Z

Special Offer on Made by Sun Rae!

From December 30th 2010 until the end of January 2011:(not including postage)

Spend £20 and receive a free pattern keeper.
Spend £30 and receive a free dpn roll.
Spend £40 and receive a free medium pyramid bag.

Found here: Sun Rae Yarn
or here: Made by Sun Rae

Happy New Year and thank you to everyone for supporting me in my new venture.

Shirley xx

Delays!

2010-12-20T21:41:00.002Z

Sun Rae Yarns would like to apologise to anyone, who has placed an order with us and not yet received it. All parcels have been sent out promptly ( 1st class recorded delivery) but due to severe and unusual weather conditions affecting post your items may be delayed, unfortunately this is out of our hands and we apologise sincerely. Shirley xx

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-19T23:56:00.000Z

Last Parcel Posting before Christmas!

2010-12-19T17:43:00.001Z

The last date I will be posting parcels out, for Christmas Day from Sun Rae Yarn and Folksy Account, will be Tuesday 21st of December. It's nearly Christmas, how exciting. Looking out my window I can see it has started snowing again. If your venturing out, remember to wrap up warm and stay safe. On a final note I would like to say:

Merry Christmas everyone & thank you to all my lovely customers, for helping me to realise my dream of Sun Rae Yarn and Made by Sun Rae.

Shirley xx

Santa's Mini Sock Pattern!

2010-12-13T10:17:00.005Z

Quite a few people have asked how I made the Santa's mini sock for the washing line, without the kit pattern.

I will try to write it out for you to follow. I apologise if there are any mistakes, this is my first go at writing a pattern down for someone to read.

Yarn: baby 4ply
Needles: thinnest you can work with.

Cast on 16 stitches. Divide stitches onto 3 dpns-yes I know it's tricky, try not to poke your eye out or stab yourself and join for knitting in the round. Knit three rows in 1x1 or 2x2 (whatever takes your fancy) ribbing. Switch to st st and knit about 12 rows.

Start of heel prep:
Next row, knit the next four stitches and transfer these four, plus the four just before them, onto one needle (leave the other 8 on a separate needle). Knit 8 rows in st st, ending with a RS row. Next the heel turn.

P4, p2tog, p1, turn
sl1, k1, ssk, k1, turn
sl1, p2, p2tog, turn
sl1, k2, ssk

Pick up five stitches along each side of the heel flap and rearrange your needles so that the round starts at the bottom of the heel. On the next round, k5, k2tog, k8, ssk, k5. Knit one round plain. Then k4, k2tog, k8, ssk, k4. Knit another plain round. Then k3, k2tog, k8, ssk, k3. You’ll have 16 stitches again.

Knit the foot straight for several rounds. I like having about 14 total rounds from gusset pickup to toe decreases.
Toe Shaping:
For the toe, k2, k2tog, ssk, k2 twice. Knit a round plain. k1, k2tog, ssk, k1 twice. Now rearrange the needles so that the top of the foot has four stitches on one needle and the sole stitches are all on the other, and knit two stitches so your yarn is in prime kitchener position, I used this link for the stitching, Knitty. Graft the stitches together, sew in ends and ta-da a mini sock. =D

Santa's Washing Line!

2010-12-12T17:14:00.002Z

I made Santa's Washing Line for a swap I was involved in. I'm not saying the groups name though, as my swappee hasn't received this yet. It is based on the pattern kit which can be found here . I didn't have the pattern or kit to hand, I just looked at the original image and improvised. I hope my swap partner enjoys what I have made. It was very hard to part with it, think I may have to knit one of my own =D.

I used the tinniest needles I could find and the thinnest yarn too.

I then used white fun fur to trim the coat and little hat.

The little buttons on Santa's undergarments are hand sewn, using french knots.

I've been knitting!

2010-12-09T19:03:00.000Z

I've knitted my bit of Macmillan's woolly scarf petition to make sure people with cancer can keep warm without the worry. You can get knitting too.

Website Update!

2010-12-01T14:01:00.002Z

Beautiful handmade pattern keepers these are magnetic and designed so that you can mark your place on your knitting pattern or chart. They come in a variety of lengths and are made using beautiful ribbons and high quality magnetic pieces. They will be launched on the website at 8pm today.

Shirley xx

New Website!

2010-11-29T20:32:00.000Z

It's finally here. Sun Rae Yarn

I hope you enjoy my new website. It will be updated and replenished regularly over the next few weeks. So go on treat yourself or the knitter in your life.

Shirley xx

Christmas Gift Preview LAUNCH MOVED!

2010-11-26T20:17:00.002Z

Website Launch Moved to 29/11/2010, 8pm Launch!

This is due to a few issues with the new website. I have contacted the host company and they are looking into it and will be working over the weekend to iron the issues out. They have promised the website will be ready for Monday morning. I am so sorry for the inconvenience, very stressful but I would rather everything was perfectish with no glitches. Once it's working it will be amazing.

I designed these cases with only the finest fabrics and threads.
Each Case has 7-9 pockets and plenty of room, they also fold over the needles so they wont slip out. Each roll fastens up and ties with a ribbon, Ribbon color may vary.

Each one is unique, as I have created each one by hand with lots of love. They will grace your knitting bag and you will receive many compliments as well as "Where did you find that case?" at your next knitting/crochet group.

The pyramid bags, are avaiable in small, medium, large, the smallest will hold stitch markers, sewing needles and other haberdashery items

There is also box bags, most are available in the fabric used for the needle roll. They also come in small, medium, large. The largest will hold sock needles and 100g of yarn.

Sorry if the preview is a little bit late....the joys of a certain uploader we shall not name lol.

So, here I am, finally at the starting line. I'm such a hoarder I would love to keep all of them but because I 'm such a perfectionist that's the statement that will assure you that these items are of genuine quality. Thank you for looking, shop launch tomorrow at 4pm. I hope you find something you like and in keeping with my perfectionist traits all items will be beautifully gift wrapped in tissue paper.

Squee! My New Website Launch

2010-11-24T03:33:00.004Z

Please see new notice above and launch date =(
~~*New Website Launch*~~
~~4pm- 27th of November 2010~~
~~(be first to preview items, 8pm-26th of November 2010)~~

Loads of knitterly scrumptious Christmas Gifts, for you, or the knitter in your life.

Who's Excited?

2010-11-15T16:00:00.002Z

It's 39 days to Santa time ! Can you tell I'm excited...... lol!

Researching the therapeutic benefits of knitting, crocheting and cross stitch!

2010-11-05T16:21:00.001Z

Today I submitted My Story to Stitchlinks xxx
Researching the therapeutic benefits of knitting, crocheting and cross stitch!

They're research: (extract from Stitchlinks website)
"There is no doubt that developing an interest or hobby is good for you. It gives you a point of focus which is outside yourself. This can divert the brain’s attention away from issues such as chronic pain, worries, stresses and depression. Without such a distraction the brain can easily focus all its attention on problems, such as pain, and this focusing inwards can soon form destructive cycles of downward spiralling thoughts which become difficult to break.
When we first began researching the therapeutic benefits of knitting and cross stitching, our initial thoughts were that they could provide an effective way of ‘occupying’ people from the arm chair or hospital bed which could be deliverable in kit form.
As our investigation of narratives progressed, however, the benefits appeared to go a lot deeper with possible physiological, neurological, psychological, behavioural and social changes."

This is my story!

This story is going to sound so blunt but I don't know any other way to write it.

I am a survivor of Child Sex Abuse and I have suffered depression all my life because of it.

In 2006, aged 35, my niece was born and to protect her from my dad, my sister and I decided to go to the Police. We had to end the nightmare we were living under and to protect the innocent little one from the abuse we had suffered as children. It was around this time I started knitting again. I was taught as a child at the age of 5 by my mum.

We waited 2 years before our case was heard at the High Court and throughout that time my knitting became my friend and my release. Eventually my dad was sentenced to 8 years in prison, I thought my nightmare was over, or rather I put on a brave face to the world, friends and family around me. Then in December 2009 I broke down, I couldn't carry on my normal life. I was reliving the abuse I had suffered over and over again. My head just couldn't set it free. I cried all the time, suffered panic attacks – it became the norm.

I was signed off from work in January 2010 with depression. Then in June 2010, I met a psychotherapist who diagnosed me as suffering from Trauma. After only one visit, it may sound strange, but I felt a huge weight lifting from my shoulders. The relief of finally finding out what was wrong with me and finally realising I could be helped. It is now November 2010, I'm still in therapy, my friend (knitting) has never left my side. It has kept me sane, it has calmed me down and each stitch helps me forget. It stops my mind from racing, in fact when I pick up my needles and yarn, it feels like my old friend is giving me a hug. I love my knitting.

Taking Knitting to a Whole New Level!

2010-11-02T05:19:00.000Z

The Art of Ben Cuevas

I am absolutely stunned, speechless and in awe of this piece. The detail is mind boggling, the vertebrae, the hands. Stunning! I'm really gobsmacked.

Curtis and Struan!

2010-10-31T09:27:00.001Z

Celebrations galore. My wee nephew celebrated his birthday on Friday. I can't believe he is (((((15))))) and he's not wee anymore. Standing at 6 ft 1" tall and built like a bean pole, will he ever stop growing? I can remember the first time I met him, he was lying on the fluffy rug in the livingroom and had jet black hair. My brothers and I just stood looking in awe, too scared to touch him as he looked so small. It's funny how that image and happy memory is still so clear today. It actually feels like yesterday. Anyway enough of the slushiness now to some pictures =D.

I was really at a loss as to what to make for my nephews birthday. Until his mum pitched in and told me he wanted a hat. I sent her 4 images of different kinds of hats. Beanies, Chullos, Caps and he chose this one

Design: Struan by Ysolda Teague
Yarn: Hayfield Bonus Aran
Size Knitted 22"
This pattern was truly a dream to knit. The instructions are so clear and it knitted up in no time. I however, feel a tad silly now as I hesitated in finishing it for a day. I was worrying over the peak part and thought I would make a mess of it. I think I just need to have a bit more faith in my knitting and sewing ability. lol! Then I worried that my nephew might not like it, however after seeing this photo I think we can safely say Curtis loves his Struan hat!

Happy Birthday Wee Nephew! Love Aunt Shirley x

Fright Night!

2010-09-30T00:25:00.000+01:00

Bedtime is supposed to be relaxing. There I was nice and comfy, leaning on my elbow, with puzzle book across other halves side of the bed, trying to think of an answer. What happens? A giant spider decides to walk over the side of the bed and saunter onto my puzzle book. I don't know who got the biggest fright, the spider who froze or me screaming at the top of my lungs, whilst doing a dance across the bed on all fours. I stop screaming but I'm still doing a merry dance across the bed but now I'm wondering, how the hell do I make it to the bathroom to grab a glass. Cause as soon as I stop looking at the spider, it's going to hide.
Funny, that even if you side look at a spider, it still knows your looking and doesn't move. So what do I do, I dive to the bathroom, grab glass, open window in 2 secs flat and guess what, when I return, no bloody spider. I shake the duvet, I shake pillows, I even lift the bed, still no spider. I'm now thinking, where the hell am I going to sleep? Cause there is no way, I'm getting back into that bed. When all of a sudden it scurries across one of the pillows. At this point the adrenalin is pumping through my body but I'm thinking, I really wish I had orangutans arms to be able to put the glass over this sucker. One orangutan arm later, spider is safely in glass. I'm know thinking, what the hell do I do with it? (I'm not one for killing even the ugliest looking creepy crawlies) So I have to imagine I have a second orangutan arm and slip my puzzle book under the glass( yes the same puzzle book I originally shook the sauntering spider off). All the while the spider is having a fight with it's own reflection. I bound to the bathroom, heart racing, mouth dry and manage to get the spider out of the glass on to the window ledge and slam window shut, all in one action.

I'm now downstairs drinking a cup of tea, trying to calm my nerves but also thinking, please don't let it's family be waiting for me when I go back upstairs.The End x

Eurgh!

2010-09-27T23:58:00.002+01:00

Cough! splutter! choke! sniff!

Eurgh I feel awful! I've been feeling under the weather the past few days, didn't know what the hell was wrong with me. Argumentative one minute, crying the next, feeling cold then hot. That was until I woke up this morning, throat on fire and a body that felt like it had been hit with a battering ram. Yes I have the dreaded Lurgy! So to make myself feel better I put my pj's on at 3.30pm (ahem! I also have a thermal vest on) a giant cozy house coat and to help me on the road to recovery, I'm eating a tub of Haagen Daz Strawberry Cheesecake Ice cream, I offered my other half some but he kindly declined, saying it was my medicine to make me feel better hahaha! . :D Yes it's for medicinal purposes! Munch! Cough! sniff! munch!

Phew! Think I might have to stand outside now, can feel a hot spell coming on. :(

I've Got The Baking Bug!

2010-09-26T14:54:00.000+01:00

Faithfully every week I have been watching The Great British Bake Off on BBC2. Well what can I say, a truly amazing programme. It inspired me so much, that now I have the baking bug and decided to make Paul Hollywood scones, using a pamphlet of recipes from this site Get Baking.

Eight scrumptious scones later, I must say, I'm in heaven. The recipe is well written, easy to follow and the pamphlet contains lots of tips and tricks about ingredients used.. I could bake till I drop but before I do, I will definitely be making Mary Berry's Victorian Sponge from the same pamphlet. :)

Tea-cozy Cuteness!

2010-07-31T22:07:00.000+01:00

A little bit of fun!. I recently knitted this :

Little Tea-cozy House, it took me a couple of days to complete the decoration (I'm a perfectionist hahaha!)
Knitted in Sirdar Country Style.
I knitted the main area of the house first, in two pieces, which I then stitched together. I knitted the roof next in Garter Stitch. Then set about making the windows, doors and other accessories.

The front of the house, complete with running plant and flowers, window shutters, door handles and door knocker.

Back of house, complete with potato sack, sweeping brush, ladder and split door with handles.
I was so taken with my creation, that I have been looking at buying a teapot, just so I can knit one for myself hahaha!

Frustrating!

2010-07-30T07:29:00.000+01:00

I do wholeheartedly apologize to you little blog, for the lack of photos and posts over the past month. I have had no laptop for 23 days. It comes home for 1 day and has to be sent back (very cross!!!). It has a new mother board but Technical Support, forgot to sychronize the sound card with the new mother board (they call themselves professionals).
I have managed to steal a few seconds on my O/Hs laptop, while he is a sleep lol. I just have to phanthom out how to send pictures to the new system, hahaha. So fear not little blog, you will have loads of new photos of lovely projects (that I have been knitting since I have had no laptop) coming soon.
For everyone who reads my blog. I have a big announcement to make within the next week.Oooohhhhh! Squeee! Very exciting.
Love Squirrel xx

Years Gone By!

2010-06-20T15:24:00.001+01:00

Last week my mum and I decided to visit my mums sister, my aunt. She had just turned 60 a couple of days beforehand and we where very much laden with gifts. Anyhoo after copious amounts of birthday cake and cups of tea my mum asked to see one of the old photo albums. Cue a lot of laughing and a huge trip down memory lane.
This is what we found in the album:
My brother and I. I'm 2 in this photo. Mum says I was very mean to him, seemingly I was jealous that he was around hahaha!

Little Squirrel with Paddington Bear T-shirt aged between 5 or 6.

With my partner in crime, Shep the dog, he wouldn't let anyone near me(even my siblings) he was really protective. We grew up together, he was bought as a puppy 6 months after I was born.

My little sister (she was a bit of a tomboy, sssshhhhh don't tell anyone)

My Grandad (or Papa as we called him) with my Aunt Mary on the left and holding my mum.

My Aunt who celebrated her 60th

My siblings and I. Just look at the size of the rolo packet my sister is holding, it's huge.
From left to right my brother Mark, Me, holding my baby brother Jason and my little sisiter Amanda.

My Nana and I. I'm about 8 months old in this picture

My Nana and Aunt Margaret

My mum and sister

Me striking a pose

My young aunt she was just 10 years older than me. With my Uncle Alec, who I lost age 6.

Melody the dog , (she used to steal tea from your cup if you laid it down. and me), think I'm aged 8.

my Aunt Margaret, Nana and Aunt Alison

And finally, Shep as a puppy, isn't he sooooo cute. I miss you little guy.

Hope I didn't bore everyone too much. I had real fun looking through these photos, a real trip to the past.

Bugs and Flowers Swap!

2010-06-12T21:08:00.000+01:00

Hooray! I have just received word that this little swap parcel has reached it's destination. It is now safely in the hands of the recipient. It had to wing it's way to Turkey, I'm so glad it has arrived! Why? Cause I put a lot of work into it hahaha!

Lets have a look at the goodies. First up a little ladybird tape measure. This is my own pattern and was a bit of an experiment (I'm very pleased with the results). Crocheted in black and red cotton.

The wings kept moving, hence the pins. They stopped me using a few bad words, whilst trying to make them sit. :0
I'm not a very patient person at the mooo! : p

Little ladybird with her spots i.e. buttons. I decided on a two spot ladybird. I believe she is native to the U.K.

Look she works! She reassured me it wasn't sore when I pulled her antenna to reveal the tape measure.

Now for the Ladybird home!

Under Construction!

The inside of the ladybirds home i.e. box bag.

Little label, so the ladybird knows it's her home

Shaping the bag

The outside

Hey! I think she likes her new home.

Ooooww! she's gone inside

Have a safe journey, little one, bye!

That was fun! What can I make next. Watch this space.

Over The Rainbow!

2010-05-23T09:56:00.001+01:00

Absolutely amazing show, a real pleasure to watch each week. Loved the glamour and the choice of songs and yes I did shed a tear when the girl I favoured was voted out. I would sit on tender hooks wondering what was going to happen on the Sunday, who would stay and who would go. To see all the girls progress throughout their time on the show, feel their joy or sorrow at the judges constructive criticism , watching their talent blossoming was awe inspiring. I will miss this programme each week but do you know what my O/H and I have agreed to purchase tickets to come and see the show, I can't wait. squeeeeeeeee!!

Congratulations to Danielle and Sophie for getting into the final (just between you and me, I voted for you both in the semi final). I jumped off the sofa (sad, I know) when the two of you got through to the end. I think the both of you are truly amazing and I could never have made the decision as to who should be the winner, as in my eyes the two of you are. Sophie I will definately be watching out to see what shows you appear in and Danielle break a leg girl, it's bad luck to say the other one (I can't get the song out of my head 76 trombones traaaa laalaaalaaa!). Your families should be very proud of you both. All the best!

Mouthwatering!

2010-05-19T12:45:00.000+01:00

Pattern: Chloe by Alana Dakos
Yarn: Anchor Magicline colour 1740
Needle Size: 5mm
Knitted top down, all in one piece. The pattern is fantastically written and easy to read.
I wanted something different to go with my little nieces present, plus the yarn has been sitting in my stash for what seems like forever and you might say, I have been itching to use it, since I bought it many months ago. It is truly a dream to knit with, the colour changes are so mesmerizing. I just have to search for the ideal buttons now to finish this little project off. Sigh......

Summerlin for Nieces Birthday!

2010-05-14T20:43:00.001+01:00

I've been busy over the last week or so making these pretty little things for my niece. She will be 4 on Tuesday.

Knitted bib with crochet flower decoration and crochet flower button.

Dress number 2.

I wish I was wee again to wear them. This is such a lovely pattern, it's on Ravelry and is called Summerlin.

by Alice Schnebly.

Handmade Quilt and Other Crafting!

2010-05-07T14:13:00.004+01:00

I've been very busy lately, as you can see, busy cutting up fabric and generally making a mess ( my O/H word not mine). The mess is putting all the pieces together to create this:

Handmade Kids Quilt. This is the first quilt I have ever made and even though it's not perfect, I'm loving it.

Little Ducks waddling around

Little bunnies taking a stroll!

I'm not sure what I'm going to do with this little quilt when it's finished. I was going to give it to one of my nephews or niece but after discussing with my O/H and mum, I'm going to keep it for my own little one :0

Summerlin
I have also been busy knitting this for my little niece.

Her birthday is on the 18th of May.

Looking good!

I have already picked the fabric to attach to the bib but I will leave that for another day haha! Watch this space!

Homemade Apple Pie! Slurp!

2010-04-28T12:43:00.003+01:00

After a strenuous morning of abs, tums and bums and Aerobics Oz style, all in the comfort of my own livingroom, I could barely walk upstairs to the shower, my legs ached so badly. 10 mins later I was able to hobble back down stairs again, to the kitchen.

Flicking through this fabulous book for their gorgeous pastry recipe I decided to make this:

Gorgeous apple pie!

I wasn't sure how to make the filling i.e stew the apples or bake the apples in the oven. Stewing them would have made more of an apple sauce, which I wasn't keen on and baking the apple in the oven just seemed like too much hardwork, well I had just completed 1 and a half hours of exercise and was in no mood to walk back and forward to the kitchen to check them hahaha!

So i decided to peel, core and slice 3 Bramley apples. I then arranged the slices on to the rolled out shortcust pastry, which had been placed into a tart baking dish. I then covered the apple with (2 tbsp) of soft brown sugar and (1/2 tsp) of ground cinnamon. I then covered the apple with more pastry, I pressed round the edges to secure it and then using a sharp knife, I made a small slit in the centre of the pastry lid. I then brushed the pie with a little milk and sprinkled some castor sugar on top. I then baked for 20-25 mins at 200 degrees celsius until the pastry was lightly golden.

The result, gorgeous homemade apple pie with a giant 1/4 of a chunk out of it, one half to Paul the other to me. Pauls reaction gorgeous. Result!

Sorry... I Forgot!

2010-04-21T14:26:00.001+01:00

He's gorgeous, he will make you laugh, then kick you in the shins and run away... be warned haha!

Ages and ages and ages ago, well a couple of months to be exact. I crocheted a new blanket for my nephew Kody. If you can remember his old one was going to blanket heaven in the sky (got to bribe the kid somehow). I would show you pictures of the old blanket but you may cry with laughter ( if you look closely it has sneeked into the picture above). The blanket was very much loved and carried everywhere, so much so that 1 blanket eventually became 2 and then eventually 3 and still the little guy insisted on carrying it around. That is until- the new blankie came along

V-Stitch Blankie #70118AD by Lion Brand Yarn
He calls it his special blankey (bless!)

and it's only for special occassions i.e. bedtime and when he's feeling ill , not to keen on the feeling ill part but very pleased with, it's special enough to cuddle up to and fall asleep. That's when he's not trying to grab the camera of his auntie to shove it in his mouth.

Love you Kodster, enjoy the blanket! xx

100 Things I want to do before I die!

2010-04-19T09:38:00.003+01:00

All the statements I have achieved so far are shown in red (not very many, better get a move on hahaha!)

Attend at least one major sporting event: the World Cup, the Olympics.
Throw a huge party and invite every one of your friends.
Swim with a dolphin.
Get married in an exotic location.
Have your portrait painted.
Learn to speak a foreign language and make sure you use it.
Go skinny-dipping at midnight in the South of France.
Watch the launch of the space shuttle.
Spend a whole day eating junk food without feeling guilty.
Be an extra in a film.
Tell someone the story of your life, sparing no details.
Make love on a forest floor.
Learn to horseride.
Learn to rollerblade.
Own a room with a view.
Brew your own beer.
Learn how to take a compliment.
Buy a round-the-world air ticket and a rucksack, and run away.
Set up your own business and work from home.
Give your mother a dozen red roses and tell her you love her.
Be a member of the audience in a TV show.
Put your name down to be a passenger on the first tourist shuttle to the moon.
Send a message in a bottle.
Ride a camel into the desert.
Get to know your neighbors.
Plant a tree.
Learn not to say yes when you really mean no.
Write a fan letter to your all-time favorite hero or heroine.
Visit the Senate and the House of Representatives to see how Congress really works.
Learn to ballroom dance properly.
Learn how to do a Zumba Fitness class properely (not go in a different direction from everyone else)
Be the boss.
Fall deeply in love -- helplessly and unconditionally.
Ride the Trans-Siberian Express across Asia.
Sit on a jury.
Write the novel you know you have inside you.
Make a quilt.
Stay out all night dancing and go to work the next day without having gone home (just once).
Drink beer at Oktoberfest in Munich.
Become a mentor to a young person who needs direction.
Shower in a waterfall.
Ask for a raise.
Learn to play the guitar with some degree of skill.
Teach someone illiterate to read.
Be in two places at once.
Spend a night in a haunted house -- by yourself.
Write down your personal mission statement, follow it, and revise it from time to time.
See a lunar eclipse.
Spend New Year's in an exotic location.
Get passionate about a cause and spend time helping it, instead of just thinking about it.
Experience weightlessness.
Sing a great song in front of an audience.
See a shooting star.
Drive across America from coast to coast.
Make a complete and utter fool of yourself.
Own one very expensive but absolutely wonderful dress.
Write your will.
Sleep under the stars.
Take a ride on the highest roller coaster in the country.
Learn how to complain effectively -- and do it!
Go wild in Rio during Carnival.
Spend a whole day reading a great novel.
Forgive your parents.
Learn to juggle with three balls.
Drive the Autobahn.
Find a job you love.
Spend Christmas on the beach drinking pina coladas.
Overcome your fear of failure.
Raft through the Grand Canyon.
Donate money and put your name on something: a college scholarship, a bench in the park.
Buy your own house and then spend time making it into exactly what you want.
Grow a garden.
Spend three months getting your body into optimum shape.
Drive a convertible with the top down and music blaring.
Accept yourself for who you are.
Give blood (scared of needles but I want to give)
Get a tattoo (again scared of needles).
Go up in a hot-air balloon.
Attend one really huge rock concert.
Experience (firsthand) the birth of a child.
Be able to handle: your banker, telephone solicitors, call centres.
Give to a charity -- anonymously.
Visit the pyramids of Egypt.
Let someone feed you peeled, seedless grapes.
Kiss the Blarney stone and develop the gift of gab.
Fart in a crowded space.
Make love on the kitchen floor.
Go deep sea fishing and eat your catch.
Create your own web site.
Visit the Holy Land.
Make yourself spend a half-day at a concentration camp and swear never to forget.
Make Bread from scratch.
Create your Family Tree.
Become a good listener.
Make a hole-in-one.
Learn to ski.
Learn to bartend.
Run a marathon.
Be able to forgive and not hold a grudge..
Reflect on your greatest weakness, and realize how it is your greatest strength.

February Lady Sweater!

2010-04-15T11:46:00.001+01:00

Pattern: February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne at http://www.flintknits.com/blog/
Needles: 4.5mm, 32" circular needle and 4.5mm dpns
Size: 41" bust (I'm a curvy squirrel)
Yarn : Robin Aran with wool in Salmon Pink.

I decided to knit this sweater for a couple of reasons
* Pattern is gorgeous and I had to have one
* I had the time and patience to make one (I usually only knit scarves, shawls, mittens etc)
* And finally, I don't really have a sweater that I can wear on a chilly summers evening, hence the short sleeves (we do get alot of cold weather in the North).
What I love about this pattern: You knit it from the top down (my first and certainly not the last). The pattern is very easy to follow and you do the lace after the garter stitch yolk instead of the other way round (i.e working from the bottom up). I was bad though as I didn't do a gauge swatch and kind of just winged it. Could have been very disastrous. I think that's why I liked knitting this pattern so much, as I could see where I was going, I could stop and try the item on to get an idea if I was on the correct track and guess what, I was, (first time for everything) no frogging, amazing!

I then had 2 dilemmas- sleeves or no sleeves and what buttons to choose. I really couldn't decide so left the pattern for a couple of days and searched photos from other knitters February Sweaters to see what I liked best. I decided on no sleeves as you can see. The buttons where a different matter. My poor sweater sat for about a week buttonless and in no hope of ever being finished :( . (I won't just put any button on a garment it has to be just right. I have a thing about buttons.)

I finally decided on these from: www.thenaturaldyestudio.com/ they are wooden Daisy Painted buttons 30mm. Some of the Daisy Petals are the same colour as the yarn (told you the buttons have to be just right). All in all I love the colour of the yarn but not sure if I would use it again. I found it very sore going and drying on the hands, however the shape is beautiful, I love the drape and it is very cosy and to top it all of I have had quite a few admiring glances whilst wearing it. The postie even commented on the buttons (and he's a man) result.

Happy Birthday to meeee.......

2010-04-14T16:15:00.003+01:00

Lots of cake and a cup of tea hahaha!

39 years ago today at 7.40am (I'm an early bird) I came into the world screaming and kicking. I don't feel 39 though, I'm actually only 5 (well in my head I'm 5 ). Anyway, come in, sit down. Would you like a piece of cake and a cup of tea? Enjoy!

I will post my birthday pressies later on today or tomorrow!
Have a lovely day!
Squirrel xx

Ladybug (bird) Picnic Mittens!

2010-03-24T14:59:00.003Z

Ladybird (bug ) Picnic Mittens by Elinor Brown.
Knitted in Rowan Pure wool 4ply. (Avocado, Red and Black)

I just love these, I have a real thing for Ladybirds . My mum once caught me in the garden covered in them, they were crawling all over my hands and arms, loved it, my mum didn't really see the fascination for it . Even now if I see a Ladybird and I think it's in danger of being squished, I will save it's life . When my mum noticed what I was knitting she nearly fell off the couch laughing, she can't believe at the age of 38 and 3/4 I still have this obsession with ladybirds. I haven't got the heart to tell her if I could find adult wellies in a ladybird design I would wear them Oh! and a mac to match .

I just love the twisty cord around the cuff and the picot edge. These where really fun to make and I would definately make them again. The Ladybird is supposed to have 6 spots but it was too busy for the mits and you lost the effect so I ended up unpicking the sewing of the dots and went for a 2 dot ladybird instead.Think it was just my knitting that made it look too busy.

p.s. please don't look at what I'm wearing in the 2nd photo. It doesn't match purple and white polka dot pyjamas with orange Holland hoodie mmmm! lovely hahaha!