With Hook and Needle

This Rug Needs Work

2012-01-29T18:33:00.005-05:00

some progress here

still not loving it

but will hook more

before any more reverse hooking takes place

II could use one of these

to mix with my other little quilts...

just not in red

(it's on ebay if you need it)

found some patches already

in progress...they were going to be 9 patches

but are now destined to be

a little blue and tan 1 patch...

how about that fancy pincushion

otherwise known as a stack of

patches for a different project

the Clover patchwork pins

are a dream for hand piecing...

~~~
the little darling in the header

Hannah from NC...

on my favorite quilt

that Mom made for Deb

Rebecca "Goodwool" Punches

2012-01-25T11:12:00.003-05:00

look at what Rebecca punched !!!

she took my simple doodle

and made it her own

with some design tweaking and the colors...

WOW

my friends sure have some talent

this is up for auction now on ebay

Oh Pierre

2012-01-24T09:08:00.002-05:00

ooh la la

what a handsome fellow

my friend Doris

punched up this latest doodle of mine

and he's looking sweet...

she has him for offer on ebay

right now

check out the link

in the right hand column...

Thanks Doris

for making my doodles

looks soooo good!

Reverse Hooking

2012-01-22T10:57:00.006-05:00

here's a sneak peek of my current hooking project

before

I reverse hooked all but the background

I was trying to go with the original colors

(see rug in today's header photo)

but it wasn't working for me

this is our Pattern of the Quarter project

in my ebay group

I'll have another photo next weekend
~~~~~

for our next project

(beginning April 1)

I'll choose from one of the

following three antique rugs for inspiration

I'll be sharing the pattern

(April 1)

on the blog if you'd

like to hook or punch along with us...

~~~~~

It's a cozy day here

with about 6" of snow

cold with sunshine

perfect for hooking and stitching

today I'm cutting out textured wool mittens

hand piecing quilt blocks

puttering around

yesterday I was a hermit

other than feeding the birds I stayed in...

A Penny Saved

2012-01-15T10:32:00.004-05:00

Olivia is helping sort the coins

thinking I should spend the money on cat treats

instead of saving it for long arm quilting...

this is one of many quilt tops

waiting and waiting to be quilted...

this year all my change is going to be saved

in the hopes of getting a few quilted

others can be primitive quilted by me

I'll let you know when that starts...

(insert skeptical looks here)

Large or small

UFO's are going to disappear in 2012

Scrappy Hooking and Finishes

2012-01-12T12:04:00.004-05:00

I hooked up this little pillow

the other day...

will add some interest to display arrangements...

someday

finished up the wool pillows/bowl fillers

I started a while ago

there are three blue

one tan/cream

for offer on ebay

...

100% of the proceeds

on two of them

will go to Alchemy Acres

...

almost want to keep them

but I'm not much of a heart person...

Merrie Wynter again

2012-01-07T09:04:00.003-05:00

I've had some requests for this booklet

so have listed it on etsy.com again...

click on the photo in the right hand column

to take you there...

Thanks a bunch!

Plans are to get some other

things listed this weekend...

destash

some of my

patterns on linen and weavers

I've been battling a cold all week

so rest is priority one

which the cats love

since they nap on top of me!

Antique Applique

2012-01-03T11:41:00.006-05:00

I found this antique quilt

Crazy Creek Quilts

circa 1845

wouldn't you love to know the history?

Making Do

in addition to using up my

craft supplies this year

I'm working on using up most
of my food before buying more...

packing my lunch for work everyday

it won't take long since in the past

I've mostly eaten in the cafeteria at work
plus way too much fast food-take out...

Yesterday I made a pot roast

in the crock pot that drove the cats mad

by the end of the day

Olivia had knocked the lid off
and was licking the inside of the pot
(the food was in the fridge by then)

this morning I had a hearty lunch
to take to the folks for
Mom's 88th birthday!

Basket Quilt

2012-01-02T18:31:00.003-05:00

at least one basket quilt

is on my list for this year

this one just leaves me speechless!

~~~

the cats on the other hand

have been nervous nellies all day

roast in the crock pot...

making quite a racket

demanding beef

I've learned my lesson

about when to cook a roast...

never overnight

they tend to pounce on me

and yell in my face

good thing they are cute

Use It Up

2011-12-31T09:22:00.006-05:00

My very simple plan for 2012

with the addition of

Do Without

huge stash of supplies:

quilt fabric
wool ~ wool ~ wool
floss and thread
books ~ patterns
batting
cotton velvet ~ prairie cloth

I don't need a thing but
time to use it up

WW2 poster

other than floss for punch needle

I'll be making do & using it up this year

( I say this every year

but for some reason know it's finally true)

pin from WW1

I will be needing new scrubs for work

I'd love a new purse

don't need one

as I'm carrying an old leather

Dooney and Burke that is beautifully worn

sigh

Wishing You A Very Happy New Year!

Neutral Palette

2011-12-29T21:29:00.005-05:00

I'm still thinking neutrals...

this photo is from an antique site

featuring the child's bed

(don't ask - I have no idea the name)

Today it was one of those days

Melrose chased Olivia

so much she ended up

on top of the fridge...

I was trying to stitch something

and could only find 7 pins

probably have thousands in here somewhere...

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T13:04:00.002-05:00

Neutral Hooking

2011-12-19T06:37:00.003-05:00

a few hooked pieces

created for my friend Rebecca...

she was my secret santa recipient

it was great fun working

on all neutral pieces for her

even though she is the master

(she's goodwool on ebay)

I'm so glad she took

this photo

since I totally forgot...

*****

wish I had a photo

from the blueberry incident this morning

I was getting some water

out of the fridge...

Melrose does his usual attempt to climb in...

he knocks over a pint of blueberries

which falls to the floor

scattering berries in all directions...

he and Olivia had to chase and inspect

every berry...

knocking them away from my hand

as I try to pick them up...

finally I give up and start throwing the berries

gently across the room

the party was ON!

anything fun happening at your house today?

My House

2011-12-10T12:26:00.002-05:00

Olivia and Melrose

would turn up the heat

if only they could...

most of the time the thermostat

is set at less than 60* here...

part being frugal

mostly I don't like to be warm

How about you?

More Antique Inspirations

2011-12-06T08:42:00.005-05:00

I couldn't resist sharing a few more

this one is way at the top of my to hook list...

another awesome background

don't you love the variety

of animals and their different sizes?

Do you have a favorite rug

from all the antiques I've shared recently?

I'd love to hear about the one

you're most inspired by...

Feed the Birds

2011-12-04T11:30:00.003-05:00

too bad my photography skills are so bad!

this is the favorite of all my pn pieces...

very subtle and drab colors in person

it's on ebay now

and I'm hoping some loves it as much as I do...

So glad to hear from everyone how much

you are enjoying the antique rugs...

I'll be taking a break from the for a few weeks

but have many more to share

the one on the header is a favorite

and will stay for a while

Hope you're enjoying your days

it's chilly and windy in NE, Ohio today

the birds are enjoying the feeder

in my back yard

Geometric Stash Buster

2011-12-02T12:42:00.004-05:00

at least one of these rugs

is on my to do list for next year

I'd like to empty the worm baskets

once and for all!

~~~

Check back tomorrow

for my latest punched piece...

sneak peek

to the right on the ebay image

Antique Backgrounds

2011-11-30T13:53:00.006-05:00

I struggle with backgrounds more than anything
These old rugs have given me so many ideas

Can't wait to try some out...

*****

Thank you so very much

if you've purchased

a book or two from me

on ebay this month...

the money is adding up for the shelter

I thank you

the dogs and cats thank you!

My plan is to do a monthly

item for sale on ebay

or my blog for the shelter in 2012

~I'm guessing they will involve a cat~

More Antique Rugs

2011-11-27T13:15:00.004-05:00

A few more antique rugs

there is so much to see

in the farm rug

my eye doesn't know where

to stop first

those faces!

the background!

Have you been doing any searching?
I found all these this morning...

More For ebay

2011-11-25T11:03:00.004-05:00

after this I'm done for a while
oh I have plenty more to declutter

but it takes too much time

away from my creating

next declutter will be bundles of wool

Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!

the cats were deliriously happy

with their leftover turkey

More Book Destash

2011-11-22T13:33:00.009-05:00

Books just listed on ebay!!!

part 1 & 2 available

this one is hard to find

a very special book

with tons of patterns

If only I had a magic listing wand...

it takes so much time

getting stuff on ebay...

but worth it

since I'm donating

the proceeds of these sales

to a local no kill animal shelter

I am so thankful

for the joy

my cats bring each day

will take some photos

when I drop off the $$$

Frosty Boy Freebie Pattern

2011-11-20T12:28:00.004-05:00

this punch needle piece will be listed

on ebay later today

size is 7 1/2" x 6 1/4"

this is how I sign in stitches

am glad my nickname is short

the freebie pattern for you...

it's my original rough draft

from a few years ago

given to my friends in our ebay group...

as you can see

I never follow a pattern exactly

Enjoy!

Blogger Issues...

2011-11-18T17:39:00.003-05:00

I have a photo of my latest punchneedle

project ready to share...

but blogger is giving me fits...

Will try again tomorrow

after the piece is

completed and at auction on eBay...

a snowman with his tree

Melrose and Olivia want me to get this recipe!

~~~~~
As for the antique rugs
most of the images are of rugs
I've found recently...
I don't keep track of
who
what
where
when
or size...
for me it's all about the eye candy

Antique Rugs

2011-11-16T08:22:00.008-05:00

I've been searching for and saving images

of antique hooked rugs

for as long as I've had a computer...

Every rug teaches me something

or gives me an idea

for a rug of my own...

This chicken rug is amazing

makes me want to hook one

just like it...

except with cats

love the face on this one

cats and thread ~ endless joy

So you want to know where to find these images?

google antique hooked rugs

then spend hours

looking through antique shop sites

narrow down your search

antique cat hooked rugs

or horse, dog or house...

it takes a lot of time

like any worthwhile endeavour

just wait until you see

the rugs inspired by the ones I've shared

searching for old rugs is time well spent

Giveaway Winner

2011-11-11T07:40:00.003-05:00

Thanks to everyone

who entered my giveaway...

there were over 100 entries

Congratulations to Mindy

Raymond Homestead

Thanks to all the readers

of my blog

for reading all those posts

and commenting!

Searching

2011-11-10T19:00:00.003-05:00

it's the old needle in a haystack hunt

I thought I knew where all

my rug hooks were...

turns out I did know

before I moved

the past few days have been

an exercise in organizing

all my small baskets of

thread

pencils

scissors

pinkeeps

works in progress

floss

wool strips

and on and on...

nope

I haven't found the

one hook I'm looking for

but I did find

2 Miller pencil hooks

(I have about 6 or 9 or so)

not to worry...

it won't stop me

from drawing a name for the

giveaway tomorrow morning!

Cats Just Helping

2011-11-08T11:30:00.008-05:00

First I took a stack of books

off the shelf in my little jelly cupboard...

Olivia hopped in to make sure I didn't miss any...

then Melrose had to double check

I've been posting a bunch of books
on eBay to start later tonight...
destashing
from Mom and my collections...

The cats would be much more help

if they could to the listings for me!

Hope you're enjoying a beautiful fall day...

The Giveaway Goodies

2011-11-06T12:58:00.002-05:00

as always, the photo is a little bright...

the two x stitch pieces still need some finishing touches...

these 5 items hand made by me...

there will be more in the box

if you're a rug hooker

I'll send you a pattern on linen

too hook and some wool...

a few prim treasures

I'm ready to part with too

***

no photos of the cats today

they are busy in the garage chasing after something

mouse or chipmunk

who knows...

I've only seen cats flying around

in a frenzy

500th Post Giveaway!

2011-11-05T11:46:00.004-05:00

see that box on the bottom of the stack?

I'll be filling one of those with

handmade goodies

for my 500th Post giveaway...

simply enter by leaving a

comment on this post

please make sure I am able to

contact you if you win...

I'll be posting photos the real items tomorrow

(little quilt, punched needle mat,

small hooked pillow, x stitch bowl fillers...)

just wanted to get this underway...

when will the winner be picked?

Nov 11th in the morning

maybe 11-11-11

will be your lucky day...

If you post about this on your blog

and let me know

you get a second entry...

***This contest is only offered

to residents of the USA

due to shipping costs

Winter Friends

2011-10-30T10:48:00.005-05:00

Mom gifted me with this

tea towel a few weeks ago...

she loves to stitch them

on the ticking fabric...

another lucky me piece!

the applique designs are Jan Patek

can't stop making the 3" blocks

there is something missing that

I can't put my finger on...

the colors are just not right

still looking ho-hum

they will go in different projects

once I get

the scrappy look I want

~~~

I've been putting images of antique

hooked rugs in the banner area

of the blog...

great inspiration

~~~

did you know this is post 499?

next post is the giveaway...

Ho Hum

2011-10-27T09:57:00.005-05:00

" Ho Hum"

is how I feel about these blocks

for a little quilt

they are lacking interest...

to me it they need more dark fabric

what do you think?

this little quilt

was inspired by one

I saw somewhere online...

it was a mix of light colors

with patchwork stars

where my large squares are

those square will have wool pumpkins

appliqued on after the quilting...
this one I'm quite happy with!

Chow Time

2011-10-22T21:40:00.009-05:00

Olivia simply refuses to wait for

her dish to be filled and placed on the floor

when canned food is involved...

Melrose is a little more patient

now that she has gobbled up the food
on her dish
Olivia mosies over to check out
what Melrose has left

he is not amused
a little growling and posturing ensue

his belly must be full...

or he's being a gentleman

Olivia used to do this to Chester

all the time

it's a rare day Melrose shares with her

and she would never

let him invade her dish

Pumpkins Galore

2011-10-06T16:04:00.003-05:00

three simple designs

on one piece of linen

going to tweak them before finishing

I can see parts I don't like

better in photos

than real life

they'll be finished

to use as bowl or shelf fillers

this is post 495

my giveaway will be here soon!

October Pumpkins

2011-10-02T17:17:00.005-05:00

yesterday I planned on making

some stuffed pumpkins

cotton velvet ~ wool ~ homespun?

once I started looking through

the wool stash

I know it was futile...

I had to hook

nothing would do but hooking

cut some strips

drew a few pumpkins on linen

then got to work

I couldn't put the hook down

it's only about 15 x 15

so finishing it in a day

was a breeze...

all that's left is to sign it in stitches

I think Melrose loves it

as much as I do!

the colors in this photo are

closest to the real thing

and Melrose does not have a cloudy eye

just shows up that way in photos sometimes

Nearly Done

2011-09-24T11:12:00.004-05:00

~ some wool yarn whipping

a few strips of wool on the back

then it's done~

this rug was adapted from a pattern

by Lynda Hall

in her book

A Little Porch Time

there are many more patterns

in the book

I'm planning on hooking...

like the huge watering can

with flowers

~~~

Pippi Girl

2011-09-23T12:21:00.004-05:00

Olivia's favorite window spot

the sun shines here most of the day

and she just soaks it up...

the photo was taken yesterday

today she is hiding in the closet

as there is thunder and lightening

she'll pop out when it's quiet

then run for cover at the first rumble
not even the promise of

"chow chow"

will reveal her hiding spot

Over Dyed

2011-09-20T12:15:00.004-05:00

after a few false starts

the background is nearly finished

Mom has a spot on the wall

in her sewing room picked out

for display

one of the false starts

was the wool on the left

over dyed and not quite

the right shade

looks a little too green

so I dug through all my containers of wool

and found the perfect as-is yardage

hundreds of skeins of light, bright and ugly floss

over dyed with RIT tan dye

and wound on to my frugal spools

(some were gifted to me-some cut from cards I've received)

ready for punching and stitching

Melrose still likes this cozy warm spot

when he's sound asleep Olivia sneaks up

to sniff his paws and tail

poised to run if he wakes up though...

Melrose

2011-09-18T19:26:00.002-05:00

Seriously...I brush this fella all the time

but he still looks like a

scraggly mop photos...

in person he's quite handsome

It took seconds for him to choose

this new place to sleep...

I replaced the flannel with

polar fleece folded to 4" deep

on the seat of the chair

Now he can put his chin on the

arm of the chair and look at me

(making sure that Olivia isn't on my lap)

This morning I heard a little crash

in the kitchen...

Melrose was on the counter

had opened the cupboard door

where I keep the cat food

he was knocking cans to the counter

(it did not work)

I did offer him some sauerkraut

part of my lunch

---

from the horrified expression

on that furry little face

I can tell he won't be asking again

he ran away so fast

his paws were slipping on the floor!

What I'm Reading

2011-09-15T18:05:00.006-05:00

one of my favorite authors

another rewarding

visit with the residents of

Three Pines

mindless thrillers

I've started these in order

after having read a few here and there

recommended and loaned by Rebecca

a book

that makes me nod my head frequently
if you're an introvert too

you don't want to miss this one...

audio book

I was just going to listen to it in the car

but am enjoying it so much

it's in the house

making my hooking and stitching

an extra treat...

About the Book

"The Victorian language of flowers was used to convey romantic expressions: honeysuckle for devotion, aster for patience, and red roses for love. But for Victoria Jones, it’s been more useful in communicating grief, mistrust, and solitude. After a childhood spent in the foster-care system, she is unable to get close to anybody, and her only connection to the world is through flowers and their meanings.

Now eighteen and emancipated from the system, Victoria has nowhere to go and sleeps in a public park, where she plants a small garden of her own. Soon a local florist discovers her talents, and Victoria realizes that she has a gift for helping others through the flowers she chooses for them. But a mysterious vendor at the flower market inspires her to question what’s been missing in her life. And when she’s forced to confront a painful secret from her past, she must decide whether it’s worth risking everything for a second chance at happiness."

A Wonderful Dreary Day

2011-09-05T17:12:00.004-05:00

It's been a dreary, rainy

Labor Day

just perfect for

stitching away on the ufo's

~binding on a small quilt

~newer punched piece done

plus a cross stitch sampler

that's been about a year or so

in the making

all three of these items

will be part of the 500th post giveaway

at least two more

will be added...

Melrose

under the sewing room table

from here he can

keep an eye on me

at the computer and sewing machine

ugh...the carpet is monstrous!

check out those ears and bit of tail

way up on the shelf

near the ceiling...

guess who got her way ?

in fact, when I got home from work

the other night

the huge basket full of quilts

in her way was on the floor...

no one claimed responsibility

it must have been teamwork!

Olivia

2011-09-01T12:57:00.005-05:00

I think my little friend

is just too cute

she was having fun checking

out the sewing table this morning

while doing some rearranging

I forgot to leave her a spot

on the shelves

...

will have to fix that tomorrow

Peace and Quiet

2011-08-30T17:58:00.005-05:00

That's how it starts out:

a day of peace and quiet

Melrose with his favorite toy

Olivia peacefully resting on the couch

not quite minding her own business

but certainly not

asking for trouble

... then he spots her...

who wants a pipe cleaner toy

when there is a live little cat to chase?

Care to guess what happens next?

no more peace and quiet

that's for sure!

I've been working on finishing some

UFO's

binding small quilts

making little pinkeeps out of stitcheries

some will be for my

giveaway

coming soon...

Hurricane Prep

2011-08-26T10:39:00.002-05:00

sweet Hannah in NC

waiting for Irene

my sister and her dh
live on the coast
so Hannah was helping
with the hurricane prep

apparently looking adorable
is her contribution

More Punching

2011-08-25T11:19:00.003-05:00

this will be my last punch for a while

I just had to use the floss

from Doris

the colors aren't showing up too good

with my photography

not nearly as bright in real life...

Olivia is a sun worshipper

she follows it from

window to window

the glare is for me

poking her tail with my foot

Melrose is on the alert

for attacks by Olivia

he is nearly always leaning

on the footstool

when I'm using it

I see I'm getting close to

500 posts

must be time for a giveaway soon!!!

Punching Away

2011-08-22T10:36:00.004-05:00

No matter what color

I love pumpkins

the latest punched piece

is an experiment

in neutral

or almost neutral

it's heading to eBay tomorrow

I'm trying to get away from

punching for a while...

too many other projects

to finish

my friend Doris

sent a great bundle of floss

for me to enjoy

some as-is skeins

plus some of her hand dyed

looks like I can't resist one more

punched piece

before hiding the needles...

the hand dyed oranges

are too yummy to resist

Thought for the Day

2011-08-13T11:24:00.000-05:00

if only...

From Kathy to Rebecca

2011-08-12T09:23:00.004-05:00

another wonderful swap package

in our AAPG 3rd anniversary exchange

~~~

this is what

Rebecca received from Kathy

Rebecca loves neutrals and birds

I'd say Kathy did
a tremendous job!

Mailbox Overflow

2011-08-11T11:51:00.009-05:00

Swap Goodies

plus RAK's from Sharon

(our 3rd anniversary swap in AAPG)

this shot includes the stapler and staples...

gave me a total fit of laughter

when I was getting my latest booklets

together I couldn't find my good stapler

then broke the little cheap one

so ended up making do with paper clips

without the stapler!

lots of wool, floss and some sweet muslin from Moda

plus a piece of coverlet

( I saw it - shared on eBay about it...

someone bought it first)

the three ornies are perfection...

again

many thanks Sharon

this was a total surprise

from Doris

using a Primitive Bettys pattern

since the heat has really gotten to me

this summer I've been praying

for some snow...

Doris did the next best thing

thanks a bunch Doris...

I'm putting it in the sewing room

on the design wall so

I can think cool thoughts...

~~As for the cats~~

the other day Olivia was minding

her own business

checking out the vent to see

if she could wish some colder air

out of it

along comes Melrose

a little tussle ensues

with his fur ending up all

over the floor again

do you like how he's trying

to look cool and blameless

Olivia heads for cover

under the safest spot in the living room

as you can tell from the fur

on the floor in front of her

Melrose is always getting a smack

(don't feel bad for him

he's asking for it where she's concerned)

Meanwhile...

2011-08-10T13:47:00.006-05:00

when it comes to exercise

that's how I feel

I'm doing it

just without enthusiasm

it's Week 2 of Commit to Fit

at work

and while I've been

80% on track with the healthy

eating portion

(lost 7 # the first week)

the exercise part has been

more of a challenge...

if you have one

please send

a velociraptor to chase me around

for about 1/2 hour per day

or even a large dog

that needs walking

Many Thanks

for all you kind posts

and many emails

regarding my depression/anxiety issues

especially for not telling me to

"snap out of it"

Caution: Depression Ahead

2011-08-08T08:08:00.006-05:00

this about sums it up

trying to deal with my depression

with a sense of humor

this is one of the reasons I've been so

cranky lately and having headaches...

changing anti depression meds is a pain

you have to wean off of one before starting another

so all the things you were

able to deal with are back with a vengeance

anyone who's been clinically depressed for a long time

knows the feeling of

"maybe when I'm off the meds I'll be okay and won't need them"

I've been off the meds completely for a month

(dealing with an elderly parents going

through a crisis during that

time is not something I'd recommend)

will be starting a new one this week...

after you've been on some for years

they quit working right

***

The saddest part is having people

tell you to snap out of it

get more therapy

get more exercise

go outside

or
this or that

(because obviously this is my fault

for not trying hard enough)

sorry, but it's a real illness

that not everyone can wish or talk away

(because I've tried that

and am still trying)

it's chronic and will part of me always

sometimes better, sometimes worse

it just is

as far as I can tell

I've always been depressed

it got much worse

after thyroid issues in the late 90's

this endless heat is not helping either

nor is anxiety

(Thank God I still have meds for that)

I know there are millions

of people dealing

with the same issue

be thankful if you are not one of us

Cat in the Sun

2011-08-02T09:43:00.006-05:00

Seems even the cats

aren't enjoying the relentless

Ohio sun so much lately

getting this piece ready for eBay

turned out just right

after the tea dyeing

I've spent some time

off and on

the past week

rearranging a few rooms

at my parents house

to make life easier for Dad

when he gets home (today)...

these painted Shaker boxes

were always on the

"give to Kelley" list

for when Mom got tired of them...

since she couldn't find the right

place to move them to

she decided they'd look best

at my house

they sure do!

I'm thinking she purchased these

in the early 80's

at a craft show

handmade in Zoar, Ohio

the price on the largest one

is $65

next size is $48

Shaker boxes

near the top of my

Very Favorite Things list

look what I picked in the garden this morning

what a great landlord

I have for letting me

help myself

still waiting for tomatoes

for making fresh salsa

will probably buy some later this week

at one of the many

farm markets I pass on the way to work

We're starting a voluntary 10 week

Commit to Fit

challenge at work this week

(yesterday and today)

so I'll be getting weighed once I get there

then once a week until October

there will be incentives

plus a grand prize for the winning team...

my team leader says

Jillian from the biggest loser

has nothing on her...and I believe it

since she's lost over 180

pounds over the past 3 years...

Be Warned: Snarky Post

2011-08-01T18:36:00.009-05:00

snark·y
(sarcastic + nasty)
1. Rudely sarcastic or disrespectful; snide.
2. Irritable or short-tempered; irascible.

We're starting a 10 week "Commit to Fit"

challenge at work this week...

so I'm sure I'll be acting like this guy soon

Yep

more of the same

HOUSE

what's not to love about his attitude

I do work with a Dr I call HOUSE

and he takes it for the

compliment it's intended to be

Enough Said

Now if only there were

some back to back episodes

Hell's Kitchen

with Gordon Ramsey

on I'd feel better in no time!

We'll resume our regular type posts tomorrow~

thanks for letting me vent

Yep, It's Been That Sort of Week

2011-07-31T00:12:00.002-05:00

when I saw this image on a blog this week

I knew it was meant for me

and my "offline" life.

A Guest Cat

2011-07-24T05:29:00.003-05:00

this is Hannah

she lives in NC with my sister and dh

she is just about the sweetest

girl ever

lucky too

because she has rugs on the floor

to enjoy

here she is

enjoying the vent

while peeking at the

screened in porch

this rug is on loan to my sister

which probably means

I'll only see it in photos

the purple flowers

were hooked in honor of our

Grandmother Pansy

in my house rugs would be attacked

if they were on the floor

on the wall Melrose

might try to climb them

who knows

for now they are mostly

rolled up and stored in baskets

a few small ones on

tables ~ cupboards ~ counters

~~~

the rug pattern

is from

Barbara Evans Brown

hooked many years ago

and rolled up until this year

I'm so happy to see it on the floor!!!

In the Garden

2011-07-22T10:25:00.002-05:00

my latest pn piece

is on it's way to eBay...

I think it turned out just right

one of those designs

drawn directly on the backing

then changed as I went along

thinking this would make a great rug too

I can look at cats and pumpkins

all year long

~~~

this heat is kicking my butt

the AC in this house

leaves a lot to be desired

but at least I have AC

some of my coworkers don't

a few didn't want to go home last night...

Irresistable

2011-07-18T07:28:00.002-05:00

At the local quilt show

on Saturday I picked up an issue of

Quiltmania

to look through ...

Mom saw

Bonnie Sullivan's

gorgeous wool applique

and got so excited!

Once she knew a book was

available

"we" had to have a copy

Looking around online I found

the best price was directly

from Bonnie herself...

Do you find it as

irresistable as Mom does?

I'd been wanting the book too

but it's wasn't in the budget

so we'll share

good thing

I have plenty of wool for both of us

http://allthroughthenight.net/All_book_garden.php

A New Quilt

2011-07-17T07:15:00.004-05:00

here's my new quilt from Mom

I meant to set in on the counter

for a few minutes

then hang it on the quilt ladder...

Olivia is so happy there

maybe she thinks if she stays

very clean

I'll leave the quilt there for her

~surprise~

tomorrow it's going on the ladder

( I'll put something else in it's place for her)

It was a rough visit with Dad yesterday
he really wants to come home...
who can blame him

Dad will be 88 this Friday...

I'm heading over for a visit this morning

with an out of town newspaper

and a few potato chips

too bad I can't sneak Melrose in...

More Antique Inspiration

2011-07-12T07:37:00.003-05:00

This amazing antique rug

was the inspiration for one of my new designs...

mine has a cat, crow and pumpkins

would you have guessed if I didn't tell you?

Sometimes just the layout of an old rug

can help you plan a new one...

The background on this one is perfection

wish me luck in doing mine

half as well

***

Thanks ever so much

for the booklet orders...

I'd love to see photos when you use the designs

Before: Messy Cats

2011-07-10T07:20:00.004-05:00

While I've been punching like mad lately

finishing the pieces has been pushed aside

So I'm sharing messy photos

before the trimming of threads

rolling with lint brush

adding the back and edging

A little over exposed

but you get the idea

nothing like a romp in the pumpkin patch

for this little cat

These designs are in the new booklet

along with a few others you

haven't seen...

including a few

inspired by antique hooked rugs

drawn up on linen

waiting for me to let go

of the punch needle

To order a booklet directly

email me at

kankerdoodle @ aol.com

I'll send a Paypal money request

My real cats have so much fun in the garage

Olivia aka the Mighty Hunter

caught another mouse yesterday

Melrose is more laid back

he looks for mice and chipmunks

but I think he'd let them

walk across his paw

and just sniff

Thanks as always for liking

my simple cat designs

And More Cats

2011-07-09T00:09:00.002-05:00

Cats

and more cats...

that's what I keep punching

this latest one is my favorite

just like each one is

when I'm working on it...

~the new booklet is almost ready~

shipping starts Monday

And More Cats

since you like cats

it's going to be all cats

and pumpkins

10 designs

Preorder directly from me

this weekend

to get Free Shipping

$13.50

(Paypal only)

or wait for the listings

on eBay and etsy

at $15.00

Thanks again for wanting more cats!

***

I've had time to sit and doodle lately

like the day and night spent with

Dad in the ER last Saturday

until he was admitted...

he's now in a rehab facility

working on regaining his strength

two weeks until he's 88

can only imagine how hard it is

not to be home with Mom

...

for both of them

Two Not So Bad Cats

2011-07-05T09:40:00.004-05:00

" someone" knocked my latest punch needle piece

to the floor and is trying to eat the floss

Olivia thinking of maybe

sleeping in the comfy chair...

but Melrose is close by

so she'll just ignore him instead

he's just watching the birds fly by

Thanks for your recent comments on my new designs!
so maybe a cats only booklet
is in the works
~10 designs
cats, pumpkins, sunflowers
all my favorite things

Cats and More Cats

2011-07-01T11:01:00.004-05:00

This is why I've been absent lately...

punching and more punching

works in progress

they need trimming

staining and finishing

***

I'm not sure if there will be

any more design booklets from me

I feel as if everything I create is the same old thing...

oh how they love the bird feeder

right outside the window

two minutes after this I let them

out in to the garage

where Olivia promptly caught a tiny mouse

Better After

2011-06-22T19:19:00.003-05:00

I'm liking the Thankful redo...
changed the flower petals and stems
left out the word
see...
I can't even leave my own
designs alone
~~~
the punching is done
now to stain and finish
to sell on eBay
~~~
I'd love to see how you
use the pattern

Thankful Freebie

2011-06-21T10:04:00.003-05:00

This pattern is from my Early Harvest booklet

in 2007 (?)

all the booklets have been retired

I have never been happy with this pattern

it needs some tweaking

So I've drawn it up to punch

and will share the new

improved version in progress soon

You are free to use the design as is

or wait to see how I change it

then use the changes as your inspiration

All I ask is that you give me credit

for the design

Summer Swaps

2011-06-17T06:18:00.013-05:00

Two of my online groups

are having simple summer swaps...

in one we're making sewing rolls/needle cases

here are a few photos

I'm using for inspiration

this is a Sue Spargo pattern

free on All People Quilt

of course

I'd have to add some pockets

to the inside...

this photo came from esty
I like the idea of printed sewing images

this is one is just about perfect

lots of Stacy Nash patterns

to choose from in my stash

an old favorite

I like the mix of fabric/textures

I'd like a few hanging

sewing rolls for display

a little too prim for this swap

love it...but too much work

Which one would make you happy

to receive in a swap?

Not sure exactly which sort of

huswif I'll be stitching

but I do know

it will have cotton, wool and cotton velvet...

In my eBay group we're doing

our 3rd Anniversary swap...

three ornies/pinkeeps

one has a sunflower theme

the other two are your choice

Both swaps end in early August

should be plenty of time for stitching....

Ginger Cat

2011-06-16T10:42:00.003-05:00

one of the sweetest cats ever in my life

was Tigger...a big fluffy ginger

he loved roaming around outside

almost as much as he did

leftover milk from your cereal bowl

his ruff would get so big in the winter

he looked like a lion

this is one of those designs I drew

directly on the backing

it's a one of a kind

that will make it's way to eBay

The Catnip rug pattern is available

in it's original form by

Lynda Hall

in her book

A Little Porch Time

~~~

my rug has an extra sunflower

different bird and cat

is a different size

another one of a kind

Hooking & Punching

2011-06-15T17:41:00.003-05:00

here's my work in progress on the Catnip rug

(adapted from A Little Porch Time)

Melrose had to check it out too...

still need to dye the background wool

hope to achieve an oatmeal type color...

notice the helper still around in the lower right corner?

this photo was from before I decided to change

the cat from black to ginger...

punching on black weavers is wonderful for dark background

~~~

chemo hat update

I gave 10 hats to Paula yesterday and she was delighted!

she can wear them to surgery too

while she still has her hair...

Thanks to:

~ Mimi and Cheri for some wonderful fabric!

~ Bren for four great hats!

~ Doris for 4 more hats!

You're wonderful!!!

Chemo Hats Update

2011-06-04T21:42:00.002-05:00

Thank You

so very much for the wonderful

response to my chemo caps

fabric and cap request

~~~

Caps arrived this week from Doris

fabric from Cyndi and Mimi

big hugs my dear friends

there are some ladies who requested

my address but are

no reply bloggers

so I have no way to get in touch with

~~~

my email address is along the right side

of the blog where it says

"contact me"

please email me there

so I can get right back to you

~~~

I'll be sharing photos soon of caps and fabric

knowing Paula

there will be

photos of her wearing her caps!

Hooking Sunflowers

2011-06-03T11:37:00.006-05:00

this week

there are two sunflowers rugs

on the hooking frames at my house...

the first is for me

inspired by the photos for sale found on

etsy.com

I finally picked up this book the other day

there are so many great patterns

in addition to the

wonderful quilt...

am hooking my version

of the Catnip pattern

for Mom

~~~

photos of my WIP soon

Freedom

2011-05-30T07:33:00.005-05:00

1865

Richmond Virginia

graves of Confederate Soldiers

On May 30, 1870, General Logan gave an address in honor of the new commemorative holiday. In it he said:

"This Memorial Day, on which we decorate their graves with the tokens of love and affection, is no idle ceremony with us, to pass away an hour; but it brings back to our minds in all their vividness the fearful conflicts of that terrible war in which they fell as victims.... Let us, then, all unite in the solemn feelings of the hour, and tender with our flowers the warmest sympathies of our souls! Let us revive our patriotism and love of country by this act, and strengthen our loyalty by the example of the noble dead around us...."

As we so peacefully stitch our new quilts

using reproduction Civil War fabrics

may we not forget the price of freedom

Chemo Caps

2011-05-26T07:19:00.003-05:00

I can use some help here...

One of my coworkers is getting ready for chemo

again...

She's already lost both breasts to cancer

then recently had a second primary cancer

ovarian...

some girls have all the luck

Yesterday she was saying

it was harder to lose her hair

than her breasts...
no one can see what's going on

under your shirt

but your head...no one can miss it...

The help I need is with bright fabrics

blues for work

any other colors/prints for home

or if you'd like to make a cap I'd love that too!

My budget isn't allowing for anything

extra right now but I'd dearly love to

make her six or more caps...

the pattern calls for 2/3 yard fabric...

http://www.craftandfabriclinks.com/bonnet/chemo_hat_pattern2010.pdf

Please email me for my address

if you have any bright fabric to share

or can make a cap...

I'll share any extra caps

with the Oncology Department at work

A little bit about my coworker...

once she had a patient with cancer and they were

talking about losing their hair

the patient said how tight money was

and that she was going to have

to keep wearing the same few caps

for months...

well

these are the same caps we wear to surgery

my coworker went to her mailbox

pulled out all her caps

then gave them to the patient

who left in tears with a big smile on her face...

my coworker looked at all of us

and said

"don't say a word or I'll cry too...I hate crying"

Design Wall

2011-05-19T12:50:00.003-05:00

the other day I finally got around to putting up my design wall

so simple...

two pieces of insulation styrofoam

attached with Command Strip tape

then

covered with wool (yes, I have that much extra wool)

the wool is pinned on

...

the perfect size for making small quilts

...

on the wall this week is the

Simple Joy quilt in progress

the top three rows are stitched together

still need pressed

finished all the other blocks this morning

time to stitch and press some more

then decide on the border fabric

...

I'll let you know the size when I'm done with it

larger than the pattern

since I only used that for the layout

...

It's rain and more rain here in Ohio

so I'm having a little contest in my eBay group

to create our own sun with a sunflower project

to be finished by the end of the month

not much time...

but I'm desperate for some sun!

...

ps I found the indoor button on my camera

Little Stitches

2011-05-16T12:10:00.004-05:00

two small quilts in progress

the stitching is slow when you do it by hand

but I'm not in a hurry

I enjoy the process of hand piecing

the nine patch blocks
are for the Small Joys quilt shown below

my quilt will have no pink or red

it's another drab brown, olive and blue piece

it's tough to get a good photo
on a dreary Ohio day...
when you haven't found the time to read
the manual yet

Swap Goodies

2011-05-10T08:22:00.007-05:00

We had a little sewing roll swap

in the Small Quilts group on YahooPenny got my name

another oh lucky me moment

beautiful work and colors
I'm going to be able to put it all to good use!
Thanks again Penny

I had Carla's name and color preferences...

fun to make

even if it turned out more wallet-like

Olivia watching Melrose joining us

in the sewing room
she gets her little nose out of joint

because he only comes in here

if I'm in here

he prefers the front bedroom (wool room)

~~~

the big photo of her in the banner

is of a yawn

Seriously

2011-05-09T09:33:00.005-05:00

I was pawing through a basket full of yarn

looking for the pumpkin shade I need to whip

a rug...

Turns out it wasn't a basket of just yarn...

it was half full of woolly worms

they are everywhere!
No matter how much I hook

they keep turning up

filling the baskets...

May be time for another giveaway

possibly a surprise

to one of my hooking friends

(insert evil laugh)

might it be you???

Still Stitching

2011-05-09T06:32:00.003-05:00

Mom

I dearly wish that at 87

I'll still be happiest when stitching...

taking care of Dad is a full time job

she doesn't get nearly enough time

to sit and enjoy herself
but nothing brings a smile to her face

faster than seeing me pull a new

quilt magazine or some fabric out of my tote...

with the latest quilt for me

pressed and ready to be quilted

she's been sewing 4" squares together

something simple and mindless

busy hands, happy heart

Loops and Stitches

2011-05-06T07:59:00.005-05:00

One more rug hooked from the woolly worm

scrap baskets...

this closeup shows the true colors

mostly drab with some wild red

I tried to make it look old and make-do
Its' approx 20 x 26

has planned on hooking a word in the middle

but ended up not being enough room...

plenty of woolly worm scraps in the basket

for another rug using only already cut worms

for now the hooking tools and supplies are put away

~ time for some hand piecing ~

I saw this little quilt for sale on eBay recently

can you believe it's only 15 x 17???

those are some mighty small flying geese...

I'll be cutting out some little triangles soon

for a not nearly so small

flying geese quilt of my own...

Olivia gets to the window first

to have a look at the wild turkey strutting around

she is such a mighty hunter

I would be afraid she'd go after if outside...

Happy May

2011-05-01T14:18:00.006-05:00

Olivia has been having a very happy day

hiding behind the quilt top

chasing her toys around

...

she likes balls with bells inside and plastic Easter eggs

Melrose has had a very happy day

attacking rugs as I put them on the floor

my feet and Olivia

not necessarily in that order...

this new scrappy rug

will have a word or two in the middle

Does this rug look better with or without the cat?

I tried a bird in the center and didn't care for it
so switched to something simple
the true colors are somewhere between
the two photos...

Olivia's Indoor Adventure

2011-04-29T12:30:00.006-05:00

It's a little too cold in the garage for

Olivia's comfort today...

so she found something to do inside...

making sure the coast is clear

(no Melrose around)

(Seriously, I do vacuum the floor)

Olivia heads across the hall

to the built in drawers and cupboards...

Bottom drawer in perfect position...

checking out the smelly work around the house clothes

good for climbing assist...

Up, up and away...
Melrose isn't even trying to stop her today

some days she manages to get the cupboard door open

and once in a while I'll leave it open for them

(when it's empty of towels)

I finished hooking on the big ufo rug last night

still had time for hooking

so started another from the scrap baskets...

mindless geometric hooking for now

I'll share a photo of the other one tomorrow

when I unroll it to start whipping the edges...

Good Times

2011-04-27T09:18:00.006-05:00

Good times at my house

rug hooking and happy cats

I've really been making progress on this

long time ufo...

~now what to hook in the middle?

more geometric...a bird or two

suggestions are most welcome~

love this corner

Olivia having a blast!

Melrose can see the tiniest bugs...

they do love their garage adventures

Mom's Work

2011-04-21T11:00:00.002-05:00

Mom just finished this hand pieced and appliqued

quilt top for me...

this is the third courthouse steps

quilt she's made over the past few years...

one for each daughter

Lucky us!

I'm Not Proud of This

2011-04-18T13:11:00.003-05:00

yes...my taxes finally made it to the mail box today!

thank goodness for the 3 day extension

normally they are done in early February

but between owing $ this year

and moving, well, they weren't a priority

some folks say they procrastinate...

A Little Less Stuff

2011-04-15T09:31:00.006-05:00

Every day I find more things

to declutter around here...

these 3 snowmen

are heading to the

Angels for Animals Garage Sale

they start accepting donations

April 24 and my car will be loaded!

along with a few boxes of fabric

more snowmen and Christmas decorations

Melrose was a rescue kitty

from Angels for Animals

so he thinks donating is a great idea

Simply A Must Have

2011-04-10T07:09:00.002-05:00

I've been needing some inspiration

and it arrived in the mail yesterday!!!

quilts, rug hooking, punch needle...

it's all here

where to start?

Cheri or Maggie B

such a tough decision...

should I hook or stitch?

looks like my recent ho-hum projects

will be added to the UFO stash

because flowers are calling my name!

Did you get your copy?

pages of joy for prim lovers

I hope you've subscribed too!

it's a must have

Cotton, Wool and Cats

2011-04-07T13:01:00.005-05:00

I finally broke down last week

ordered a little bit of new fabric to round out my stash...

most are 1/4 yards...Civil War and Jo Morton

after I wash them Mom will get half of each

I really must learn how to use this camera indoors

at least you can see the direction the new design is taking... will Reverse Hook (aka rip out) the vase and flowers

not as bad as I'd thought

changed the blue to olive and added some red...

still drab but more interesting

don't feel sorry for Melrose

he was in the windowsill for over an hour

before he gave Olivia a turn...

A Little Hooking

2011-04-04T11:50:00.004-05:00

there has been some progress on my

antique reproduction rug...heading around the third corner today...

will start adding more color soon...

the only bad part is hooking on monks cloth

the pattern has two crows and a vase with flowers

something that's not "me" anymore...

there is some reverse hooking to be done too

it's been warm today...upper 60's

so the cats got a bit of fresh air

nice for me too

love to hear the birds and the wind blowing

before a storm

Antique Inspiration

2011-04-03T21:09:00.003-05:00

This rug was on eBay a while ago...

something about the old rugs that inspire

me to create my own version

I'm working on the borders

deciding what colors to use for the center...

blues and browns

drab neutrals

olive and khaki

???

Will share a work in progress photo soon

Now that I've finally picked up the hook again

I can barely stand to put it down What a great feeling!

* I don't know why blogger is double spacing my words... I'm typing them as normal paragraphs

Two Good Friends

2011-04-02T10:26:00.002-05:00

this collection of goodies

was sent by my dear friend Jo aka JoNut

the violet stocking is especially wonderful!

Miss Pippi ~ my favorite girl

she loves to hang out on the wool covered bench

I'm planning on adding some pillows for her

(was going to buy a pillow form

yesterday until the magazine caught my eye)

she loves to sleep with her head elevated

Somebody Slap Me

2011-04-01T10:54:00.005-05:00

I'm trying to be frugal -

to avoid impulse purchases...

but there I was in Joann's

with my 40% off coupon

intent on a specific item...

thought I'd look at the magazines first

oh sure

it's the one time

there is no sale on them

so i was able to use the coupon...

It really is a nice issue

Unpacking Standstill

2011-03-30T10:31:00.005-05:00

~ The Wool Room ~

hmmm... it's hard to be creative when I look in here

just a little more work and the room

will be neat and tidy

~The Living Room ~

where should I start?

some of these things are going back to the garage for donations to the garage sale next month

some need to go to the wool room

and I'm tired of fixing the quilts on the ladder... the cats seem to prefer them pulled to the floor

really Kelley?

what is this still doing in the kitchen the plastic container

with most of it's contents go to the garage sale donation the other pieces should be easy to find a spot for

Can you tell I'm tired of unpacking? it won't take long to finish up instead I've been tripping over boxes for more than a week... at least it gives the cats something to jump over hide behind and run around

Maybe this weekend...

Sheep and Bird Rug

2011-03-24T14:56:00.008-05:00

~Sheep and Bird~

a Maria Barton design

if you'd like to hook your own

check out her

Star Rug Company site

One of those rugs

I hooked a few years ago

then rolled up in a basket

It's being listed on eBay today

for a low low price

SOLD

still in the purge mode around here

Melrose checking out the back

Olivia in the windowsill
of the kitchen sink

she does what she wants
no matter what I say

So does Melrose

No snack
so she's outta here

Despite the photo in the last post
showing her giving Melrose
"what for"
he is the aggressive one...

forever tormenting and chasing Livvie...
she spends a lot of time
under a chair or up on the fabric shelves...

kids

Two Busy Cats

2011-03-20T12:58:00.005-05:00

Melrose pushed a little wool over the edge

to get a better swing at the yarn

on the shelf above

"Kitchen Inspectors"

Olivia and Melrose

"Back off Melrose!

Stay in the drawer..."

Once Olivia starting swinging those little paws

Melrose listens...

Work has been going slow around here
on arranging and decorating...I'm still in the
stage of purging and unpacking

With a little time for hooking...

Chores and More Chores

2011-03-13T12:05:00.002-05:00

feels like I'll never get done

moving in to this house

the garage is still pretty full of "stuff"

my plan is to be able to get the car in

by the end of the week...

I have an extra day off

for a Dr's appointment

so can spend the morning

going through boxes

putting things aside

for the annual

Angels for Animals garage sale

next month

most of my Americana pieces will go

many of the crows...

less and less

is still

what I'm aiming for..

other than

quilts

crocks

hooked rugs

redware

????

I'd like to have something

green and growing

in the house...

would love some suggestions

for

cat safe plants...

The Garage Awaits

2011-03-09T08:58:00.006-05:00

Can you see why the cats

stand at this door

begging to go out in to the garage

for an adventure?

All this

needs to make it's way

in to the house

(there's more than you think)

Even the car is full

for now

with one more

load of belongings

to pick up today...

Haven't started decorating yet

still deciding

what should go where...

some of the furniture will move

before the walls

start holding my

rugs and quilts

As for quilts

Mom is about finished

with a new one for me

(yep, I'm spoiled)

Regarding my last post...

I've decided to hold off

on buying the fabric

for now

after coming across a bunch of

"had to have it"

fabric I've never used...

Resisting Temptation

2011-03-06T17:28:00.002-05:00

I know I don't need any more fabric

I've packed and stacked

enough to last my lifetime

over the past few weeks...

So why do I keep thinking

about this piece?

The one I don't have

from an older line

that will soon

be unavailable...

Should I keep resisting?

or break down

and purchase a yard or two...

but what if I really need three?

~dear friends~

~please give me some guidance~

Resting

2011-03-02T13:16:00.004-05:00

My body forced me to take

a day of rest today...

I started out

thinking it would be a

productive day...

emptied a few more boxes

putting things away

tormenting the cats...

then a shower

after that my body

said "no more"

there went my plans

to pack another load of stuff

from the old house

maybe clean a bit

instead...

a three hour nap!

Now as I sit

at the computer

looking out the window

at the bird feeder

squirrels in the backyard

feeling tired is all worth it

soon

I'll be able to enjoy this house

and yard

as much as the cats do...

Melrose

the other day

resting in between

chasing Olivia around

Olivia watching the birds

a few days ago...

the snow is gone now

Olivia the first few days

...

living under the blankets

Unpacking

2011-02-25T12:58:00.007-05:00

sewing room corner 1

a bit of my quilt fabric stash

sewing room corner 2

wool room

living room

watching Olivia

Melrose is always

doing the "rollies"

Olivia's second favorite

hiding spot

I'll be glad when I can sit and stitch

Moving with Cats

2011-02-24T15:21:00.002-05:00

If you're looking for Olivia

she is on the couch

under a flannel sheet and quilt...

That's where she's been

since I brought the

cats here late

yesterday afternoon...

oh sure, she checked out

the living room...

from my lap

As for Melrose

he is bouncing around the house

checking all the windows

sniffing up a storm

jumping up eveywhere...

trying to open all the cupboards

it's F-U-N for him

Maybe by tomorrow

she'll step on to

the windowsill

to watch the birds...

if only a chipmunk would run by

she'd forget all about

being a sweet little scaredy girl