tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84976327055564925012024-03-21T11:38:42.203+00:00Tricky Nicky's Crafty ExploitsThere was a letter in The Times recently about how to define an intellectual. The writer said that an intellectual is someone who can go into an empty room and resist the temptation to try on a tea-cosy. We have all failed this test miserably.
http://yarnstorm.blogs.com/knitblog/knitting/page/9/Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-33453707352430051802011-06-12T17:51:00.002+01:002012-09-30T17:45:51.958+01:00Flowers of the furry kindI've completed 2 rows so far of my Little Flowers baby blanket. It takes me about 15 mins to hook one medallion, hook it to previous row and then to it's neighbour... really hoping I'm going to speed up as I go along :/ Good news is that two thirds of the way through 2nd row I have managed to work out how to bind over the previous medallion's yarn end. Instead of the 400 tails to sew in only 15 to do :D<br />
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Looking good so far. Now onto third colour which although I like it, navy blue, is going to be a pain hooking with as it's so dark (must remember for next time). Daylight bulb working so I'll just peg away at it. Don't feel so guilty being inside today as it's peeing it down outside and winds are a-blowing again too.</div>
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Before I start and get "hooked" with hooking (I wonder if that is even correct as a sentence...), time to cook the rice for tonight's yummy supper of marinaded spicy chicken, homemade tomato salsa and carrot salad :D</div>
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Bis spaeter!</div>
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Nicky</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-72782674686660148932011-06-10T10:23:00.004+01:002012-09-30T17:47:13.603+01:00Flowers everywhere!<em><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/BoppyTigs/fun-bunting">(written in Ravelry under my "Little Flowers" project)</a></em><br />
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As is the way with all good things, I discovered Jo’s wonderful shop via word of mouth and decided to set off and visit. Currently, the shop (<a href="http://www.justunwind.co.uk/">Just Unwind</a>) is just off my route to work. Good thing for my spirit, not necessarily so good for my house space ;)<br />
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On my first visit I noticed the lovely flower bunting she has in the window which she has designed and created herself. I had two options, either wait 6 months til her pattern was released back to her or buy the latest copy of INSIDE Crochet Issue 18… sometimes I’m just too impatient. One trip to market stall and I’m all set, well almost. I first tried doing the flowers using double knit cotton, definitely didn’t work. It was as if there were too many stitches in the first row, reduce them and the same crinkly effect happens. I figured it was because of the magic loop. Second trip, success! I had succumbed and bought the correct yarn for the job in the colour Aqua. No problems, the flower “is so beauuuutiful” to quote Bugs Life, and now I can’t stop hooking flowers!<br />
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I’m sure hubby would have something to say to having flower medallions all over the house, so how to join them up into something useful… I’d found something about Japanese Crochet joining techniques in this book ”<a href="http://www.yesasia.com/global/crochet-motif-and-motif-joining-together/1023825592-0-0-0-en/info.html">Crochet motif and motif Joining Together</a>” ISBN <a href="http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=wJ2FDrNnFUMC&printsec=frontcover&dq=9784529049078&hl=en&ei=UOHxTcDVCI65hAfDmoFD&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=book-preview-link&resnum=1&ved=0CC0QuwUwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false">9784529049078</a>. If you search in books.google.co.uk with the ISBN you’ll find some of the pages of the book. The joining technique I used was on page 50. Sorry, no idea as yet as to what it’s called in English.<br />Jo has also hooked her flowers together in a lovely little blanket which she has in her basket. The basket is almost it’s own little featurette with the gorgeous little flower basket cover she made for it too :D Visit her blog to see a picture of it, <a href="http://justunwind.typepad.com/">http://justunwind.typepad.com/</a><br />
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<strong>09/06/2011</strong>Thus inspired I rushed over in my lunch break and bought the other 3 colours. I think I’ll be using them all… Hooking starts in ernest, I currently have 15 flower medallions all joined together as I go. Just need another 5 and the blanket will be about 30 inches wide. I plan on making it square shaped and stripey, a nice bit of colour not too big nor too little (hopefully) for a friend’s first baby girl :DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-78819571437096724082011-04-22T10:04:00.005+01:002012-09-30T17:49:12.439+01:00Easter Weekend!<div style="text-align: center;">
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It's the Easter Weekend, and it's Sunny! \o/ Woke up to birds singing a sunshine streaming through our blinds,.. also discovered Hubby had stolen most of the bedsheets grrr. But then the temperature is just right inside :) Not sure the cats believe that though, after the usual "Hallo!" it's "ooo, comfy. Mmm, stay right here and curl up". I'd be boiled with all that fur <b>and</b> sleeping on our Indian duvet?!<br />
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I'm torn between writing up what I've been up to recently in the Front Garden (F.G) and actually going out and carrying on the battle with the weeds in the pebble patch and little bed. But that would mean then needing to make something for breakfast and our milk has decided it's going to turn so no cereal and I've eaten all the eggs,... and I'm stumped *humph* Must get out of bed and <b>do</b> something *sigh*</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-320119111864210462011-04-21T12:34:00.018+01:002012-09-30T17:50:01.852+01:00Spring has sprung, and so have the weeds!<div>
A new year has begun and the sight of our poor garden (after 2 years neglect) has shamed me /o\ It has been niggling at me, which has eventually turned into insistant nagging especially now that Spring has gotten underway. The Forsythia shrub and the Daffodils announced the beginning of Spring for us. Then the weeds decided in the last couple of weeks the weather was "just right" to grow in abundance. Well, I can't really complain because if I had been looking after the garden in the first place I'd not have so many weeds to pull :) I'm putting it down to experience. Not only am I learning what is a "weed" and how tenaciously they grow, but what plants they've been hiding!<br />
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Whilst on my knees pulling these dastardly weeds out, I've discovered:<br />
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<li>Jacobs Ladder gets everywhere if you let the lovely blooms go to seed... 10 Jacobs Ladder, 11 Jacobs ladder, oh look another Jacobs Ladder!</li>
<li>3 lovely <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/rQVZ6DaVQDE_7mRY0szSP1_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Primroses</a>, from which I gained about another 7 more!</li>
<li>a <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/YfYODntp718o0RtJjPrvk1_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Peony</a>!</li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/4giH4tTl3CCERECD7cLq-V_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Mon bretia</a> - I think...</li>
<li>Tulips, with beautiful pointy red petals unlike their larger versions.</li>
<li>Possibly another "<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/fYg6oxlFe7Fg4bghSbXNol_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Viburnum</a>" hidden under the <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/iV5mF5m6Ie5TqzJvZfWiH1_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">great sprawling bush</a>. It could be a viburnum, looks similar to <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZA6kM84wSz5UXymGctrayF_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">two tall shrubs</a> I have,... which I think are Viburnums</li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/mBxU1GMFXXPfftoft28a9l_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Clematis - Bagatelle</a></li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/HcB2MZUxgp0L-Xt2NcHQrV_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Oriental Poppy</a> - Salmon Pink</li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/9111qHO1Y7xLc8tZ4Cc61l_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Centaurea montana</a></li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/CTjcwtRSwUETXrdTudUlgF_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Forsythia</a></li>
<li>Daffodils</li>
<li>Possibly another clematis - yet to really discover, still hidden</li>
<li>Primulas</li>
<li>a couple or maybe three different types of edging plant. Could be Phlox subulata...</li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZMyBRM_7uFXDacVzZvfpbV_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Rose in a tub 1</a> & <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/XSALCJ8S39RnqoxH-CwGwV_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">rose in a tub 2</a>. No idea as to what kind they are, previous owner left them behind.</li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/4giH4tTl3CCERECD7cLq-V_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Piris </a>(in corner behind the Mon bretia)</li>
<li><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/n4QpToFmrnD9zFONdQBPpV_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">mystery plant</a>, found digging itself in the pebble patch.</li>
<li>Straggling <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/bnJcenpUU9c0g0-WPw6ACF_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">Hebe</a></li>
<li>Unidentified plant <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/9VvJcRrGqYXei2ZgwOChW1_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">1</a>, <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/mXq8exqhC_xptyWw3fJVu1_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">2</a>, and <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/yhrEuL3YzTVeFa9oFfVcq1_Zmm7be97sAKkQo0C-l0A?feat=directlink">3</a>.</li>
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The weeds I have been grappling with are Ground Elder, Creeping Buttercup, some type of grass and Dandelions. Have you ever <b>looked</b> at a Dandelion flower? Forget the rest of this "weed", just look at the flower. Is it not beautiful? No I'm <u>not</u> bonkers, promise. I like how the petals are set out and the yellow colour. My is it Yellow. Just take a look next time you see a bunch and observe.</div>
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I've always wanted to go out and do things in the garden, but just haven't. Not sure why it's taken 2 years to do so... maybe it's the sun, the need for fresh air. Could be Nanny's influence, she liked gardens and flowers. Whilst we were at her funeral this year, I think I made a conscious decision to create a garden wherever we lived so that she would still be with us in some way and as a means of saying thank you. Now, I can't stop :D The tulips we planted in pots in the backyard have come up trumps, they're like blooms of sunshine when they open up. They've inspired my neighbours on the row too, they're pots everywhere ;D</div>
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There is so much to observe and do. I have much to learn and it's so satisfying to see what you've completed at the end of the day. So long as I don't do what I did the first day I went out. I think all the shrubs felt pretty chilly after their trim and as I kept on cutting I had a fair amount of tidying up to do over the next day or two. Lesson learnt, a little goes a long way. This past week I've been out 3 evenings pulling a bucketful of weeds each time. Easier to measure my progress that way, I get fresh air, garden looks neater and I sleep well that evening. :)</div>
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Time to go out and tackle the small bed in the F.G now. Bis spaeter!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-15991107445538870542011-03-31T11:59:00.000+01:002011-03-31T11:59:40.286+01:00Eden Project’s 10 tips for gardeners in March |<a href="http://www.edenproject.com/blog/index.php/2011/03/eden-projects-10-tips-for-gardeners-in-march/">Eden Project’s 10 tips for gardeners in March </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-73210743499083147962011-02-03T13:09:00.003+00:002012-09-30T17:50:55.878+01:00New Year & grasping the nettle.HAPPY NEW YEAR!<br />
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And it is. I don't care what's been happening lately, it's a New Year and the right time to freshen up & clear the gunge out of one's life and house! But why is it at <b>this</b> time of year that we feel the need to do this? .... um a good question. I guess because I need to be doing something to brush away the grey and hibernatory feeling that the winter months bring on. It's also a good time to give myself a kick up the a*&% and finish things off and motivate myself.<br />
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It's a new year and I find myself looking for a new job. The temp job I found after college didn't pan out and after 4 months I had a long Christmas break. It was nice to have time to get ready for Christmas even if it was a small affair. We had my parents-in-law staying with us with the father-in-law having an extended stay due to slipping on the ice at the corner of our road. His words were "I know smoking can kill me, but never expected it to be this way!" Fortunately, he hadn't broken anything but had landed fully on his hip joint which has meant that he hasn't been able to walk properly without crutches for a while. Last we saw he was managing quite well with using one stick and taking every opportunity in reminding us of the fact he couldn't carry anything so please could we bring his tea through to him :)</div>
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Before becoming a housewife again we'd booked to visit hubby's parents in Spain in early January. Unfortunately it didn't make finding another job easy as I wasn't available for at least 10 days at the beginning of January. But the holiday was booked and I am so glad we had the chance to go. The weather mostly behaved itself and despite the chilly evenings short-sleeved-shirts-were-us pretty much every day. The quality of the sun was just mmmmmmmm! Batteries have been recharged and we are ready to tackle this year. Now all I need to do is organise my home life. Work life was fine, home life seems to be different.</div>
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I have decided that although being at home is a nice change, it is not doing much for my well being and motivation hence the a&%* kicking.</div>
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<li>First step, continue our general routine as if I was going to work. Being pushed in the general direction of the shower about 6:45 am is harder than I remember *sigh*</li>
<li>Second step, form a routine.... still working on this.</li>
<li>Third step, find something to do which gets me out of the house. That was easier.</li>
<li>Fourth step, more of an addon, go through our Sainsbury magazines and sort out and use the recipes from them.</li>
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So far I have made (says me preening) Toad in the Hole with a very nice homemade gravy, and Chilli stew (I'd definitely recommend this one, a delicious recipe and easy to do). I've made other meals but these were on my own :) I know, simple things and all that. Normally Rob does the cooking and I the preparation. I don't mind cutting up raw meat and I prefer Rob's fingers being attached to his hands still :)</div>
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This week I visited our local <a href="http://keighleyvc.co.uk/index.html">Voluntary </a>office and those things I have chosen to do I have contacted, organised and am going out to do. The first step was easy, anyone can pick up the phone and speak to someone. Second step, organising a date and time to meet and going was good. Third step, continuing this forward movement and going again was the hard part. Well, so far with my first voluntary project <a href="http://www.haworthrda.co.uk/">RDA (Riding for the Disabled)</a>. I used to do this whilst at school and at University but haven't worked round horses since about 2001. I enjoyed helping out, but the initial step out of the house in the direction of said activity was hard. It shouldn't be but for some odd reason I have been making excuses to myself so as not to go. Tuesday I had a reason, met and registered with <a href="http://www.bees-ymca.org.uk/">BEES (Bradford Environmental Education Service)</a> and will be planting trees in Keighley all day Friday. Wednesday, excuse was I am doing something this afternoon and really should be redesigning my CV this morning. Today though, mental kick and out I went, after checking help was needed for this morning's lesson.</div>
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I can be such a numpty at times. I <b>really</b> enjoyed myself, although could have done without the breathing in of fine mud after brushing down the ponies before the lesson :D Most had thoroughly enjoyed rolling about in the field earlier ready for me to warm up nicely whilst giving them a good grooming. I discovered I have missed it, working with the horses and helping the kids enjoy and learn. Despite the silly feeling of I'm not sure about being able to remember what to do it was no problem. It was like putting on your favourite pair of jeans that always fit nicely. I also met a friend's mum who has been helping out there for years now. I am going to the Line Dancing Social to which I used to go to and I discovered Jackie (manager of the Haworth RDA) used to work with the large machine looms in a factory. It's funny how things go and those you meet...</div>
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Catz has come to say hallo and see what I am up to. She's very good at blocking access to the keyboard to get my attention. Any typo mistakes, blame on the one handed typing :) She's found a beaded star ornament to play with, two hands now.</div>
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Yesterday afternoon I went to meet Sam at <a href="http://www.smallworldkeighley.org/">Small World</a>, Keighley. It is a small group of people who give and help the young local kids access to somewhere where they can be creative. It is based in an old factory building. They have done really well in improving and creating a creative workspace on the first floor and are looking at improving the ground floor space now too. I wonder if college knows anything about it... something I will look into :) Sam had asked me to bring examples of things I had made. Earlier that morning I dashed around the house going, "what have I finished!?". I have made lots of things, but a few *cough* I have not yet finished and was made painfully aware of this whilst turning the house upside down for finished projects. Hmm, maybe I exaggerate a little but that is one of the things I need to improve on at home. There's one New Year's Resolution formed. :) We had great fun talking about crafts and things Small World do and forming new ideas of things to do. I could even continue helping out there once I get a new job \o/ Same with the other two voluntary projects, as they can be done at the weekend and/or evening.</div>
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Ach Catz is back again, time to feed I think :) I will try not to leave it so long till the next time I write. Have a good week, and keep smiling :D</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-12096995330954689562010-07-03T10:10:00.003+01:002012-09-30T17:52:41.124+01:00Up, Up and Away!If that were only the case, still too sleepy and hot at the moment. The lovely cuppa tea of Earl Grey I made this morning is trying it's best... not quite sure how Jonathan Ross is helping though on Radio 2.<br />
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Imagine I'm standing up in some Heidi-like mountains, with beautiful sunshine, arms spread wide in a joyous stance shouting "Freedom!" (one day we'll go to Switzerland *mmmm*). Today, is my first day as a free woman, as of yesterday I am no longer employed. Not a great thing in of itself, but I have had time to get used to the idea. In that, I have been lucky. I feel... lighter, buoyant almost, ready for a new challenge. First challenge is to keep myself organized and focused, set myself tasks and complete. Not huge ones, small otherwise I do this really annoying trick of digging my head in the sand. Only problem then is, you end up asking "Does my bum look big like this?" with a mouthful of sand!</div>
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It is the first time for being made redundant, and I'm sure not the last considering how things are run in this day and age. Oo, I'll try not to get too serious on you all ;) So, tonight, with a lovely glass of pink champagne, Rob & I will toast to the past and to new challenges. Change isn't a bad thing, it's what we do about it that has great effect. Keep an open mind, even when all you want to do is scream whilst feeling like you're banging your head against a brick wall. Take a step back, breathe,... the next bit is up to you. Positive or negative, which feels better?</div>
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Now, to keep these positive thoughts and feelings going.... I find that a bottle of red wine, a large bowl of ice cream, & a chocolate bar helps ;D</div>
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If any of my friends and colleagues are reading this, thank you so much for just being there. Sorry if I ever sounded grumpy after being asked the question "have you found anything yet?" ;) Lesley may have had a tongue stuck out at her on an occasion or two. Guys, <b>do not</b> try this otherwise you may find it being a permanent fixture in her office ;D (At this point, Nicky considers changing her mobile number ,... just in case)</div>
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Apart from these dazzling thoughts, I found today a small pink envelope lying on our kitchen mat. Postman had been. Yes I was up before he came :P It was addressed to Mrs Nikki Wilson, even after I'm gone they still can't spell Nicky right grrrr. On opening, it is a birthday card. What, it didn't say "Not to be opened until the 8th" on the front. Not that I'd have paid any attention anyhow *grin*. It reads:</div>
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Dear Nikki,</div>
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Happy Birthday from the Principal and your colleagues at Leeds City College.</div>
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Best wishes</div>
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Peter Roberts.</div>
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My reply:</div>
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Dear Peter,</div>
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Thank you very much for the lovely Birthday card and thoughts. If you want to give me a birthday present a job would be nice.</div>
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All the best</div>
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Nicky Wilson</div>
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Well, it was worth a thought. :)</div>
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Time to wake up properly. Bis spaeter!</div>
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Nicky</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-25108545097962324572010-03-10T11:32:00.002+00:002010-03-10T11:43:04.121+00:00Thought for the dayIt's a beautiful day, sun is shining, air is fresh and I came across this lovely thought for the day which I thought I'd share.<br /><br />"It's not a successful climb unless you enjoy the journey!"<br /><br />How true :) Also, have a read of the blog from which it is from. The lady designs her own design charts for cross stitch and it's fun to read :)<br /><br /><a href="http://happythreads.com.au/2010/03/09/little-white-kitty/">http://happythreads.com.au/2010/03/09/little-white-kitty/</a><br /><br />Have a wonderful day :DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-66454172620048575632009-11-14T17:00:00.009+00:002012-09-30T17:53:34.007+01:00Quacks & TribulationsWell that went well. Drove through Keighley and it's chock-a-block town centre, along the rain soaked bypass to Silsden and found myself a spot in a deserted car park, well bar one taxi. Found the church no problem,...hmm no other knitters here. Just kiddiwinks and their parents. *Ping* Wrong date! /o\ My other half chuckled at this when I rang him just to make sure. Eeeeevil man. *sigh* That'll teach me to look at my dates more closely, drat.<br />
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Ach well, at least now I have satisfied my curiosity about Silsden and all that it holds... not much. Saturday's are dead after 1pm and the only residents about were the local Pooch Palour / Pet shop and the Ducks! The dogs were having fun being washed, groomed and petted and the ducks, although not being petted, were enjoying the delightfully wet weather.</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404013135524050754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PVj7eBBpdMvSsMQhfEUAYuOXUrdh8z9Zp91aMvwGFWlOvYx5jxOOF0Vt-j9QfkyQfISxb83atTIAWtrZw2KyYuxMGdrFFO5uRO0KBmfIsKQ9O6mNrgaoPNHaliDDH-3Nv9ZzvzmmQTaJ/s200/Ducks1.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 200px;" /></div>
<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404009939590048258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Fhi4i20bn4x3Z2rVxSRX7J9LqbNG4uPWJvsPBUU1uLa19Y8uCWvvPsj7XH7K-Meb3P9iad6fajpqNRDAcz56cEzUFMSOaTVkQ4lJQoLR6q6pE23DT2gQGLZgg4dm5PxzRfboM2avsVA8/s200/Ducks2.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 200px;" /><br />
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They did however announce their displeasure at not receiving any nice crusty titbits of bread. Welcome to the club Ducks, all I got for my pains were wet jeans and a wet rucksack. It did remind me of how nice walking in the rain can be if one is dressed for the weather which I wasn't entirely :)</div>
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Weather has calmed down a bit since then, wind has stopped howling around the terrace \o/ Hope yours is </div>
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better ;D</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-71486964375118847042009-11-14T11:59:00.005+00:002012-09-30T17:53:52.020+01:00Inspiration & Knitting thoughts<div style="text-align: center;">
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There is so much here on the internet, I'm for ever glued to it looking for new patterns, ideas and information. Need to start curbing it,... or just start concentrating on what I'm doing. I see all these wonderful blogs and like anyone starting up their own think "I wish mine was like that" or "how do they do it?!" or, well you get the gist of what I mean.<br />
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One such blog is <a href="http://susancrowe.co.uk/">Susan Crowe's</a>. I stumbled on to it this morning after mispelling my google search for "knitting blok". Hubby had asked yesterday about the <a href="http://www.cocoknits.com/block/knittersblock_online.html">Knitting Block</a> I might have hinted about for Christmas so I was just finding the link again to send to him ;) Oh if there are any spelling mistakes in this, you can quite happily blame my cat Catz (short for <a href="http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2004/04/07/">Catsby</a> - this story is for another time). She's determined that I spend far too much time at home on the laptop and that stroking her is much more important. Well it is, but then I couldn't write to you all then could I :)</div>
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Here she is, as she is at the moment, hogging my lap whilst I get a crink in my neck writing this.</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403933672844094082" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCW-jgCP9R_2K5yetfOFZtwPB4EHqccXqQl2COKCeVxRGjS9nwvVPu3X7dEYCJ3oY9ZgJ3l4PM8ZFaoS8u3el19Jyd2y1QlCN05lSrHsg1Pi6OdJWgXcv08ZIQ2YYeDBKdfKgnfb3kku_r/s200/Catz.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 150px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /></div>
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Where was I, blog, blok ah that's it, Susan's blog was just what I needed to read. Refreshing, funny, especially the part about the <a href="http://susancrowe.co.uk/2009/05/20/train-knitting-and-nutters">"Anti-Knitting Nutter"</a>, and inspiring. She just gets on with writing about her crafty exploits so to speak and things in general, no fuss, no fluff,... just an unabashed self proclaimed Indulgent Knitter who isn't shy to just be out there knitting in public. See her post about her holiday trip to <a href="http://susancrowe.co.uk/2009/07/20/so-fed-up-i-went-to-mexico/">Mexico</a>.</div>
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Thanks Susan, you've given me the boost I needed :D I'd already started writing and organising my craft projects, but needed to do the same with my blog. So you might see more of me here. No, you <b>will</b> see more of me here. That's better.</div>
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I'm afraid I've been really lazy this morning and now it's well'n'truly time to get up. What, it's cold and windy outside. I wanted to stay cosy and Catz would have been put out if I'd removed my comfy lap, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it ;P Also need to get ready to go to the Silsden Knitting group, you can find them on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/silsden-knit-and-natter">Ravelry</a>. Should be fun :D</div>
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Have a great day!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-8633301606428832662009-10-10T22:40:00.002+01:002012-09-30T17:54:39.697+01:00Book Worm alert!Oh dear, found myself back at the library this weekend. For a good cause though, had to print a document off as our printer isn't working at home.<br />
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The library is a wonderful thing, full of such "yummy" books! Nicky tries to get herself in hand. I'm hoping that by writing about the books / magazines I've borrowed from the local Library I will remember to take them back once I've finished with them.<br />
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I have started afresh, updated my address and my status as a married woman. Still getting used to that, although so far I've remembered more often than my supposed spouse?! Rob has cause to write my name down on Wednesday morning, which name did he put? My maiden name. Why bother sometimes comes to mind ;) I'll forgive as it was ~8:15 in the morning. Okay, books I'm borrowing are:</div>
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<li>French Girl Knits by Kristeen Griffin-Grimes.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"> Well, this one is on order whilst someone else is reading it.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">DK Pocket Encyclopedia - Needle Craft.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(3 weeks)</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">The Harmony Guide to Knitting Stitches Vol.2<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(3 weeks)</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Yarn<i>play</i> at home - Handknits for colourful living by Lisa Shobhana Mason.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(3 weeks)</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Bead magazine - Issue 17<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(one week)</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Bead magazine - Issue 18<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(one week)</span></span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">I will update thoughts on the above books/magazines as I read them.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Really must sleep, lots to do in the morning. Organising yarn for one and shelf that couldn't take the weight of most of my craft books /o\</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Sleep well.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-32481429593624398442009-07-01T11:56:00.006+01:002012-09-30T17:55:26.387+01:00Hitched Finally!Dear Family & Friends<br />
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Just a quick Post-wedding note to say thank you to those who were able to share our Special Day, it meant a lot to us to have you there. Thanks also go to those who were unfortunately unable to attend but were there in thought and spirit.<br />
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We'd like to give thanks to both sets of parents in their determination in getting us to the altar. We're finally hitched! Mum & Dad Wilson, thank you for being understanding and helping out where you could. You certainly gave the guests enough lavender confetti to fill up my dress for a year or so :D Ma & Pa Mueller, thank you for all the preparation & major organising you did. The day wouldn't have run as smoothly as it did without it and I wouldn't have been as emotionally strong as I was. Much thanks also goes to those of you who were "commandeered" by us in decorating and making buttonholes, you all need to pat yourselves on the back ;D<br />
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I'd be fibbing if I said I hadn't thought, on an occasion or two, of absconding to Gretna Green but what is life without those trying times? Now what comes first to mind is the people around us on the day, the laughter & tears, the dancing, the food (ooo the beef was delish!) and the wonderful entertainment :D <br />
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Rob is having great fun at the moment with the word "wifee", but then I'm enjoying finally being able to officially calling him "hubby"! The cats are relieved to have us home and are not letting us out of their sight, although sharing a shower is nowhere on their list of places to be as yet.<br />
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I'm currently waiting on the Photo CD's from the table cameras that you all filled up and I'll see to putting up some on my flickr site for you all to see. If there are any you'd like a copy of just gives us a shout. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-40040489465526182202008-11-20T16:36:00.006+00:002012-09-30T17:57:20.683+01:00Rob's Mitts\o/ I'm actually writing down what am doing for a change! This is my first project to be put onto here and hopefully it won't take too long to do. Well, it can't do as it needs to be done for christmas and there isn't any excuse either as these little beauties knit up nice and quick :) My problem is that I like to "fiddle" as I call it, I can't seem to stick with one thing and finish it off. I get an idea, "fiddle" for a bit then move onto something else. I'm hoping I'm not the only crafty person here who does that.<br />
<a name='more'></a>I'm doing these mitts for my fiancé who being 1 foot taller (6ft 2) than me has rather thick wrists so the pattern in the book doesn't rightly fit. I decided to make a mock mitt to see whether I liked the pattern and if there were any changes to be made.<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8767931@N08/3036434570/in/photostream/">Mock Mitt </a> -</li>
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<li>yarn: cream cotton</li>
<li>needles: 5mm</li>
<li>gauge: 5sts per inch</li>
<li><a href="http://www.knittersreview.com/article_book.asp?article=/review/reading/031120_a.asp">pattern</a>: followed 5sts at 7in.</li>
<li>Result: garter stitch possibly a little loose, but the Mitt did fit his hand. Could be a little longer in length, maybe ~10 sts more. Didn't like the buttonhole used in the pattern so have done a swatch in cotton of different buttonhole types or I could modify the pattern so that the seam edge becomes the thumbhole.</li>
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Right, now that I've finished the mock mitt and know roughly what I'm wanting it's time to start the real thing :DAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8497632705556492501.post-15698058786125091802008-11-19T13:40:00.001+00:002008-11-20T15:58:56.324+00:00Welcome / Wilkommen!Welcome to my humble blog fellow traveller, well you are traversing the internet so yup you're a traveller ;D<br /><br />I've started this in an attempt to organise my sporadic trips into the world of crafts. You are most welcome to join me on my travels.<br /><br />Til our next adventure together!<br /><br />NickyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14886396428483894024noreply@blogger.com0