Another week goes rushing by....and I always know that it's been a bit crazier than normal when I have a hard time recalling great discoveries for the week. So here is a list of prior discoveries that had a fresh burst of excitement for me this week.
:: David's Tea. A couple of months ago while I was on an interview trip, I happened upon this shop in Kitchener-Waterloo (sorry, I never know which of the cities I'm in when I'm there....and need to rely on the locals for guidance). It's a Montreal-based company with shops across Canada – including North Bay, as I discovered just this morning on their site! I purchased some tea during my first visit and I've been savouring every cup. With Mother's Day just around the corner, I wanted to get some for my mum....and placed an online order. Service was speedy - 24 hours later I had my tea :-) My personal favourites (from an admittedly small sampling) are: Read my Lips, The Earl's Garden, Cranberry Pear and Buttered Rum. If you're already a David's fan, I'd love to hear your top picks - especially as I am definitely going to be checking out the store in NB when I'm up for the Annual....
:: Wabora is a delicious Japanese fusion restaurant in nearby Bracebridge.....and the home of many yummy dining experiences for me. They have a new location in Toronto, and while I can't vouch for it, I can say that I've never had a single bad or even mediocre bite. A new yummy, but rich, discovery is the Volcano Roll. The sisters and I had a feast on Sunday: tasty salad with ginger dressing, Lobster Tempura Roll, Sundae Roll, Volcano Roll....and finished with a fried banana. yum, yum, yum! A great place to stop for lunch when you're driving by, on your way to the Annual in a couple of weeks.
I'll be working hard this weekend, on the final few things for the Annual prep....and hopefully taking the whole day 'off' on Sunday to spend time with my mum. Happy Mother's Day to all of the mums!
Showing posts with label Friday Fabulousness and Favourites. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Friday Fabulousness and Favourites. Show all posts
Friday, May 11, 2012
Friday, May 04, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
Whoosh! Another week comes to a close....and there is a fun weekend ahead for me - yippee! Saturday I will be vending at RUG, and then on Sunday my sisters and I are having a girls' day in the city. It will be a nice change of gears from all of the sitting and stitching (1/2 done the edging on Jumbo....yay!) and continuing to prep for my booth at the Annual on May 26/27. This year in particular I am realizing just how much time and effort goes into my preparing for this event. Exponentially more hours than the time we'll actually be open for business - I've been getting ready for months! And in just a few short weeks it will all be over again for another year....and I'll be celebrating with some knitting, some reading, and hopefully a bit of Liberty quilting! :-D Enough rambling - here is this week's little list....
:: I saw this obi belt earlier in the week and immediately fell in love. While I'm not yet convinced it will work on my body, I have enough hope that I am going to make one for myself. Mine will be made out of pieces of wool, though. More to come, when the time comes.....
:: Navel oranges. I have been having some really great luck buying oranges over the last couple of months. They have (for the most part) been so delicious that I'm almost addicted - and definitely convinced that I've eaten more in last 2 months than I have in the last 5 years. My theory to picking good ones: they should be firm, a nice shade of orange, and feel heavy. If they are light weights they are not very juicy - and sometimes have that yucky almost dried, hard pulp. When it comes time to eat, I take off the peel, grab a bowl and separate the segments....then wash my hands before sitting to savour every bite.
:: The new TV show Scandal. I think that this week's episode was the 5th....so you still have time to catch up online - but you should really start from the beginning. Last week's episode was outstanding - the best political drama since the West Wing (for me).
:: I read this article: Why I don't like Picasso the other night, right before bed...and I was still thinking about it in the morning. I love it when that happens...
Happy weekending!
:: I saw this obi belt earlier in the week and immediately fell in love. While I'm not yet convinced it will work on my body, I have enough hope that I am going to make one for myself. Mine will be made out of pieces of wool, though. More to come, when the time comes.....
:: Navel oranges. I have been having some really great luck buying oranges over the last couple of months. They have (for the most part) been so delicious that I'm almost addicted - and definitely convinced that I've eaten more in last 2 months than I have in the last 5 years. My theory to picking good ones: they should be firm, a nice shade of orange, and feel heavy. If they are light weights they are not very juicy - and sometimes have that yucky almost dried, hard pulp. When it comes time to eat, I take off the peel, grab a bowl and separate the segments....then wash my hands before sitting to savour every bite.
:: The new TV show Scandal. I think that this week's episode was the 5th....so you still have time to catch up online - but you should really start from the beginning. Last week's episode was outstanding - the best political drama since the West Wing (for me).
:: I read this article: Why I don't like Picasso the other night, right before bed...and I was still thinking about it in the morning. I love it when that happens...
Happy weekending!
Friday, April 27, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
TGIF. I'm so glad I've made it to Friday this week, and I'm really looking forward to a weekend of dyeing, dyeing, and drying. Hopefully come Sunday night, all of the piles of wool being propped up by my loveseat will have some new tints and colours, and be sitting pretty in bins, cubbies, bundles and boxes. Today's list is all about dyeing...
:: Cheap Digital Thermometers. With my style of dyeing (basically I tint smaller pieces of wool one-at-a-time, then set the dye by combining all of the related wools together of one basic colour family together in one pot with citric acid to steam), I can easily lose track of time. Different colours take longer to absorb into the wool, so there can be a big range in how long it takes me to assembly a 'family'. So I'm hoping that the little timers I picked up at the dollar store will come in handy - I bought one for each of roasters. Now I just need to keep them out of the water - the magnets are not quite strong to hold tight to the metal exterior of the roasters (definitely not the Lee Valley quality my dad has gotten me accustomed to...LOL)
:: Good rubber gloves - the thicker, the better. For years I preferred to use disposable gloves whenever I dyed. I could quickly toss a filthy pair, change wet ones, or replace a leaker. But a couple of years ago, when I had that really bad burn on the inside of my wrist (not from dyeing!), I decided to try proper rubber gloves as an extra layer of protection over my bandages.....and I haven't looked back! I love the extra length, which provides more coverage and results in fewer accidental dribbles into the insides. But what I really love is that they thicker gloves allow me to grab pieces of wool in the dye bath, shove down any peek-a-boo virgin bits, and even squeeze water out of patches to better reveal the true colour. All things that I would NEVER do with the skimpy disposables. Plus, less waste....is another very good reason to love them. To keep then from getting skanky, I always store them inside out. My initial two pairs lasted for 2 years - and would have lasted longer if I hadn't worn holes with the string of my salad spinner - I just treated myself to some new ones this month.
:: My favourite tongs. I picked up a pair of these last fall in Southampton at the wonderful kitchen shop.....and they are my absolute perfect tongs for dyeing yarn. No rough bits for strands to catch on....no sudden extra-wide openings....no sudden down-pouring of water down the channel if you lift the bottoms higher than the hinge (there is no hollow trench in the handles like many other tongs)....they don't seem to discolour (at least no so far). The only drawback is that they don't offer a super strong grip - but that's not an issue for me with yarn. Oh, and the fact that I only have one pair......but hopefully I will remedy that soon! LOL!
:: Cheap Digital Thermometers. With my style of dyeing (basically I tint smaller pieces of wool one-at-a-time, then set the dye by combining all of the related wools together of one basic colour family together in one pot with citric acid to steam), I can easily lose track of time. Different colours take longer to absorb into the wool, so there can be a big range in how long it takes me to assembly a 'family'. So I'm hoping that the little timers I picked up at the dollar store will come in handy - I bought one for each of roasters. Now I just need to keep them out of the water - the magnets are not quite strong to hold tight to the metal exterior of the roasters (definitely not the Lee Valley quality my dad has gotten me accustomed to...LOL)
:: Good rubber gloves - the thicker, the better. For years I preferred to use disposable gloves whenever I dyed. I could quickly toss a filthy pair, change wet ones, or replace a leaker. But a couple of years ago, when I had that really bad burn on the inside of my wrist (not from dyeing!), I decided to try proper rubber gloves as an extra layer of protection over my bandages.....and I haven't looked back! I love the extra length, which provides more coverage and results in fewer accidental dribbles into the insides. But what I really love is that they thicker gloves allow me to grab pieces of wool in the dye bath, shove down any peek-a-boo virgin bits, and even squeeze water out of patches to better reveal the true colour. All things that I would NEVER do with the skimpy disposables. Plus, less waste....is another very good reason to love them. To keep then from getting skanky, I always store them inside out. My initial two pairs lasted for 2 years - and would have lasted longer if I hadn't worn holes with the string of my salad spinner - I just treated myself to some new ones this month.
:: My favourite tongs. I picked up a pair of these last fall in Southampton at the wonderful kitchen shop.....and they are my absolute perfect tongs for dyeing yarn. No rough bits for strands to catch on....no sudden extra-wide openings....no sudden down-pouring of water down the channel if you lift the bottoms higher than the hinge (there is no hollow trench in the handles like many other tongs)....they don't seem to discolour (at least no so far). The only drawback is that they don't offer a super strong grip - but that's not an issue for me with yarn. Oh, and the fact that I only have one pair......but hopefully I will remedy that soon! LOL!
Friday, April 13, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
Happy Friday the 13th! I can hardly wait for the clock to chime five times tonight -- I'm taking next week off for a little stay-cation. Nine glorious days in a row to play in the dye pots, fondle wool, make up some patterns, read a book or two, exercise daily....and do my taxes. Yes, that last one is a bit of a drag, but a necessary evil. My plan is to try to do the bookwork early in the week, so that I can really relax and just enjoy the rest of the days.
I had originally planned to take a week and sew a quilt top, to satisfy my 'inner maker*', but my mind is telling me "no- don't do it! There is too much else that needs to happen first...." (* if you haven't already read it, check out this Yarn Harlot post from earlier this week - so clever and so true!)
While I was still dreaming of quilts, I happened upon a couple of share-worthy sites - both new to me this week....
:: Barbara Brackman blog is jam packed with information and eye candy on old quilts. Whether you are a quilter or just like looking at textiles, there is definitely lots for you to feast on here....
:: I love, love, love this quilt. Sujata shares how to make the individual blocks here
I had originally planned to take a week and sew a quilt top, to satisfy my 'inner maker*', but my mind is telling me "no- don't do it! There is too much else that needs to happen first...." (* if you haven't already read it, check out this Yarn Harlot post from earlier this week - so clever and so true!)
While I was still dreaming of quilts, I happened upon a couple of share-worthy sites - both new to me this week....
:: Barbara Brackman blog is jam packed with information and eye candy on old quilts. Whether you are a quilter or just like looking at textiles, there is definitely lots for you to feast on here....
:: I love, love, love this quilt. Sujata shares how to make the individual blocks here
Friday, April 06, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
Hoppy Easter everybunny! I received a large Lindt bunny yesterday at work, and he is mocking me still....but (thankfully!) so far I've been able to resist. My Mum is coming over this morning for a little play in the dye pots - the wind forecast is good, just hoping it warms up a bit - so I should have some fun pictures to share soon. There are lots of little jobs on my list for this 4-day weekend, with some family time mixed in, too.
Just a short list this week - not much time for random surfing and discoveries....sorry!
:: Here is a quick and easy, no-machine-required vest that you can make out of washed/dyed wool yardage. If you work quickly, you can wear it this Spring! :-) Personally, I think I'll save it for a late summer, early Fall project....there's just not enough hours in the day for me right now.
:: Speaking of not enough hours in a day....I decided to take a little break last night and just lay about reading and watching TV. I managed to read the Hunger Games (1st book) from cover to cover. Such a quick read - I loved it! - and now I'm ready to see the movie. Yes, I really prefer to read the book first, then watch the movie.....don't like my characters to be tainted by the visuals, yada yada...
Just a short list this week - not much time for random surfing and discoveries....sorry!
:: Here is a quick and easy, no-machine-required vest that you can make out of washed/dyed wool yardage. If you work quickly, you can wear it this Spring! :-) Personally, I think I'll save it for a late summer, early Fall project....there's just not enough hours in the day for me right now.
:: Speaking of not enough hours in a day....I decided to take a little break last night and just lay about reading and watching TV. I managed to read the Hunger Games (1st book) from cover to cover. Such a quick read - I loved it! - and now I'm ready to see the movie. Yes, I really prefer to read the book first, then watch the movie.....don't like my characters to be tainted by the visuals, yada yada...
Friday, March 30, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
I'm writing this on Tuesday night, before I leave for a five-city interview trip. I feel tired already....and I know that come Friday I will be longing for home, my bed, and some fun crafty times. Fingers crossed that Sunday lives up to its name, and that there is a good breeze to set the scene for some dyeing - a big box of 100 skeins just arrived and I'm itching to get playing in the pots.
:: if you like improv quilting and colour....or even improv quilting or colour, check out this beauty I happened upon by sheer accident earlier this week. Je l'aime!
:: ....then that blog lead me to another blog, that lead me to these fun finger puppets...and these ones. If only the people in my family were still little enough for these....I guess I will have to wait for the next generation. LOL!
:: while my next quilt is definitely going to be made with the Liberty Tana Lawn I splurged on last Fall in London, seeing this quilt the other day has me fantasizing about a quilt made out of velveteens - pure luxury!
:: if you like improv quilting and colour....or even improv quilting or colour, check out this beauty I happened upon by sheer accident earlier this week. Je l'aime!
:: ....then that blog lead me to another blog, that lead me to these fun finger puppets...and these ones. If only the people in my family were still little enough for these....I guess I will have to wait for the next generation. LOL!
:: while my next quilt is definitely going to be made with the Liberty Tana Lawn I splurged on last Fall in London, seeing this quilt the other day has me fantasizing about a quilt made out of velveteens - pure luxury!
Friday, March 23, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
I'm just starting a self-made long weekend....and it's so nice to be able to laze about in bed, reading the news and checking a few blogs - even if I did wake up at the same time as if I were going to work! At this rate, though, I will be lucky to start 'working' at lunchtime. My wish list for the weekend is a long one.....drawing patterns, dyeing (if the wind blows the right way to make the yarn nice and fluffy), preparing yardage for a big dye spree (next weekend?), and experimenting with a couple of sewing projects that have been stewing. Hope you have a great weekend, too, and find some time to play and make.
:: I think I need to declare a moratorium on candy this Easter....and just eat real eggs, instead. Here is a great online tutorial on dyeing your own eggs with natural dyes, so you can have pretty and healthy at the same time!
:: Not that I want to lessen my odds of winning, but have you seen Christine's anniversary giveaway yet? Run - don't walk!
:: I so want to make some of these friendship necklaces for myself.....it's just a matter of allowing myself a big enough window of time. Soon. Hopefully soon. I don't think the world is quite ready for me to sport them around my waist, yet though.... ;-)
:: One last one....check out this cool scarf - knit one row each day, replicating the colour of the sky that day. Perfect for people who only have a wee bit of time to work on a project each day....and what a unique way to record the weather!
:: I think I need to declare a moratorium on candy this Easter....and just eat real eggs, instead. Here is a great online tutorial on dyeing your own eggs with natural dyes, so you can have pretty and healthy at the same time!
:: Not that I want to lessen my odds of winning, but have you seen Christine's anniversary giveaway yet? Run - don't walk!
:: I so want to make some of these friendship necklaces for myself.....it's just a matter of allowing myself a big enough window of time. Soon. Hopefully soon. I don't think the world is quite ready for me to sport them around my waist, yet though.... ;-)
:: One last one....check out this cool scarf - knit one row each day, replicating the colour of the sky that day. Perfect for people who only have a wee bit of time to work on a project each day....and what a unique way to record the weather!
Friday, March 16, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
Another week has come to an end....and although I was hoping to get back here with another post or two, I decided to put all of my time and energy into hooking this week. Things are looking hopeful (and being helped along with my working just a half-day today, so I can sit frame-side this afternoon) that I will be finished sometime tomorrow. I can hardly wait - and neither can the list of what I will work on next! It seems that the closer I get to the freedom of being finished, the faster the ideas are forming.....so I'm thinking I might be in for a bit of a disappointment. Some prioritizing - and a reality check! - are definitely in order.
:: I've been indulging in a few treats lately...to fuel me along during my long hooking sessions. I've been having a real thing for peanut butter lately (yay Reese's!), but my latest discovery is the new Cadbury's Dairy Milk Pretzel + Peanut Butter bar, accidentally discovered while wandering the tempting centre-aisles at my local grocery store.
:: Lately I've been starting my day reading Karen Kahle's new blog: Primitive Spirit. Great writing, thoughtfulness....and lovely eye candy. Who could ask for more?
:: If you're into quilting, or just like to read about other people's thoughts on colour....check out In Color Order and her series on "The Art of Choosing" just don't forget to keep pushing "next" at the bottom - there are many, many posts in this series.
:: Did you see the new show Missing last night? Ashley Judd kicks butt - and I think it's my favourite new show in a long while.
:: I've been indulging in a few treats lately...to fuel me along during my long hooking sessions. I've been having a real thing for peanut butter lately (yay Reese's!), but my latest discovery is the new Cadbury's Dairy Milk Pretzel + Peanut Butter bar, accidentally discovered while wandering the tempting centre-aisles at my local grocery store.
:: Lately I've been starting my day reading Karen Kahle's new blog: Primitive Spirit. Great writing, thoughtfulness....and lovely eye candy. Who could ask for more?
:: If you're into quilting, or just like to read about other people's thoughts on colour....check out In Color Order and her series on "The Art of Choosing" just don't forget to keep pushing "next" at the bottom - there are many, many posts in this series.
:: Did you see the new show Missing last night? Ashley Judd kicks butt - and I think it's my favourite new show in a long while.
Friday, March 09, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
This week has gone by at break-neck speed, and at the same time, it seemed like it was crawling by.... How is that possible? I'm not sure, but I do know that I have a lot of hooking ahead of me (Jumbo looks the same as it did on Monday....sadly), and that I'm looking forward to having a couple of days off from the office.
:: My newest favourite app for the iPhone is the Tom Tom GPS app. Yes, it's pricey ($49.99 for Canada only and $59.99 for Canada and the US)....but that's about the only drawback. If you don't have a GPS (and want one) and you have a newer iPhone (with internal GPS), I would definitely recommend it. A neat feature is that you can search in Google for the place you're looking for....which is great if you don't have a proper name in mind.
:: Twiggs in North Bay. I had to be in North Bay for work this week, and ended up at Twiggs for a couple of hours. I cannot say enough good things about this place....and the London Fog drink is dee-lish (Earl Grey teabag in steamed milk with vanilla syrup - so much better than it sounds). Oh, and the desserts in the case looked to-die-for good. If you're coming to the OHCG Annual in May, you might want to make a stop (there's a location just down the hill from the college/university - 501 McKeown). It would be a great place for lunch, a snack or light supper.
:: All you can eat Sushi places. I like sushi....and have eaten it in lots of different places, but this week was the first time I went to an all-you-can-eat place. Again, it was in North Bay: a place called JT Sushi on Lakeshore (I can't find their site, but if you google it, you will quickly find lots of reviews, maps, menus, etc.). Whenever I think of all-you-can-eat, I think buffet....and when I think buffet and sushi, I feel sick.....but this place provides table service. You order from the menu, they make it fresh and bring it to you. The menu is quite diverse and also includes things like terriyaki, tempura, soup, salad, dessert.....and a variety of Thai food. Another suggestion if you're travelling to NB in May.
:: My newest favourite app for the iPhone is the Tom Tom GPS app. Yes, it's pricey ($49.99 for Canada only and $59.99 for Canada and the US)....but that's about the only drawback. If you don't have a GPS (and want one) and you have a newer iPhone (with internal GPS), I would definitely recommend it. A neat feature is that you can search in Google for the place you're looking for....which is great if you don't have a proper name in mind.
:: Twiggs in North Bay. I had to be in North Bay for work this week, and ended up at Twiggs for a couple of hours. I cannot say enough good things about this place....and the London Fog drink is dee-lish (Earl Grey teabag in steamed milk with vanilla syrup - so much better than it sounds). Oh, and the desserts in the case looked to-die-for good. If you're coming to the OHCG Annual in May, you might want to make a stop (there's a location just down the hill from the college/university - 501 McKeown). It would be a great place for lunch, a snack or light supper.
:: All you can eat Sushi places. I like sushi....and have eaten it in lots of different places, but this week was the first time I went to an all-you-can-eat place. Again, it was in North Bay: a place called JT Sushi on Lakeshore (I can't find their site, but if you google it, you will quickly find lots of reviews, maps, menus, etc.). Whenever I think of all-you-can-eat, I think buffet....and when I think buffet and sushi, I feel sick.....but this place provides table service. You order from the menu, they make it fresh and bring it to you. The menu is quite diverse and also includes things like terriyaki, tempura, soup, salad, dessert.....and a variety of Thai food. Another suggestion if you're travelling to NB in May.
Friday, March 02, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
I'm so happy it's Friday. Even though I have a few things planned for the weekend, it will be great to have some relaxing moments at home, too. And get some major hooking done - I hope! Here is this week's list...
:: washing dishes by hand. The warm water is so soothing to my hands when I've been hooking up a storm. Sometimes I will fill the sink for just a couple of things, just so that my hands can have a little soak.
:: The Needle Emporium. While I've ordered from Julie lots of times before, this week brought my first visit the stone and mortar shop....and if I had to describe it in just one word, I think it would be overwhelming. There is just so much lovely to look at - and touch.....but in the end, after wandering around like a lost kitten, I settled on enough Tosh Vintage to knit a cardigan (maybe this one?) in the summer (in Graphite) and Tosh Merino Light to knit another Alga (in Manor). Oh, and I also picked up a few assorted balls of Noro Kureyon Sock for my mama - they were such a great price (just $12 a ball!) Even though I won't really have time to knit until after the OHCG Annual (at the end of May), I'm looking forward to having some great projects to work on at the campsite.
:: Lov Organic Tea. I love a good bargain....and I have a hard time resisting great packaging. So I quickly indulged in picking up a few boxes of All my Lov tea assortment at Chapters when I saw them in the sale stacks for 75% off (of the regular price of $27). And now that I have savoured my first cup, I am already wishing that I'd bought more!
:: fancy food shops. Last week, Elaine and I went to check out McEwan's....and practically drooled the whole time we were there. When my cousin Laura took me to Whole Foods for the first time, she told me to "always take a basket, never take a cart" (or you will have a heart attack when you get to the check out)....and the advice applies here, as well. Pricey, but oh, so interesting and exciting and delicious and decadent. Mmmmmmmmm.
:: washing dishes by hand. The warm water is so soothing to my hands when I've been hooking up a storm. Sometimes I will fill the sink for just a couple of things, just so that my hands can have a little soak.
:: The Needle Emporium. While I've ordered from Julie lots of times before, this week brought my first visit the stone and mortar shop....and if I had to describe it in just one word, I think it would be overwhelming. There is just so much lovely to look at - and touch.....but in the end, after wandering around like a lost kitten, I settled on enough Tosh Vintage to knit a cardigan (maybe this one?) in the summer (in Graphite) and Tosh Merino Light to knit another Alga (in Manor). Oh, and I also picked up a few assorted balls of Noro Kureyon Sock for my mama - they were such a great price (just $12 a ball!) Even though I won't really have time to knit until after the OHCG Annual (at the end of May), I'm looking forward to having some great projects to work on at the campsite.
:: Lov Organic Tea. I love a good bargain....and I have a hard time resisting great packaging. So I quickly indulged in picking up a few boxes of All my Lov tea assortment at Chapters when I saw them in the sale stacks for 75% off (of the regular price of $27). And now that I have savoured my first cup, I am already wishing that I'd bought more!
:: fancy food shops. Last week, Elaine and I went to check out McEwan's....and practically drooled the whole time we were there. When my cousin Laura took me to Whole Foods for the first time, she told me to "always take a basket, never take a cart" (or you will have a heart attack when you get to the check out)....and the advice applies here, as well. Pricey, but oh, so interesting and exciting and delicious and decadent. Mmmmmmmmm.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
I missed last week, by accident. Sorry....sickness intervened, and it just disappeared in the night from my mental to-do list.
:: Mollie Makes magazine and blog. I had seen mention of this relatively new UK crafty magazine on blogs, but forgot all about it until I saw it on the newsstands when I was in England last Fall. Naturally I picked one up...and loved it. I was happy to rediscover it in Chapter's last week....and even happier when I read inside that there is a digital version available for a fraction of the price of the hardcopy The magazine sells for £4.99 in the UK (equals approx $7.50Cdn) ...but sells $13.75 at Chapters. A digital subscription is just 64.99 for 13 issues (less than the price of 5 hardcopy issues at Chapters)
:: The urge to sew with felted sweaters continues, thanks to Belle Armoire magazine and discovering Katwise's wonderful many-sweater coats. Now I don't think I would have the gumption to wear an exact replica....but I can dream.....and create my own cardi.
:: Speaking of sewing with felted sweaters...check out these baby blankets and this bigger blanket. Love!
:: One of these days I want to learn how to crochet.....and then I want to play with colour, like Eclectic Gipsyland and Ceitaspasaule and many others....
:: I've been periodically checking out Pinterest....and tried to join, but my invitation didn't work (I think it's because I didn't have FB, and the delay - while I set up a special FB just for it - caused a problem....but that's a whole other story). Definitely lots of eye candy on there, but it's easy to get overstimulated and feel like everyone else is so perfect. In my research, though, I discovered something quite cool for other bloggers....Did you know that you can see what images people are pulling off/pinning to, from your blog? Copy and paste the following into your browser:
http://pinterest.com/source/fisheyerugs.blogspot.com/
(of course you need to remove my blog name and add your own. It will also work for other blog platforms and some websites, too .....)
:: Mollie Makes magazine and blog. I had seen mention of this relatively new UK crafty magazine on blogs, but forgot all about it until I saw it on the newsstands when I was in England last Fall. Naturally I picked one up...and loved it. I was happy to rediscover it in Chapter's last week....and even happier when I read inside that there is a digital version available for a fraction of the price of the hardcopy The magazine sells for £4.99 in the UK (equals approx $7.50Cdn) ...but sells $13.75 at Chapters. A digital subscription is just 64.99 for 13 issues (less than the price of 5 hardcopy issues at Chapters)
:: The urge to sew with felted sweaters continues, thanks to Belle Armoire magazine and discovering Katwise's wonderful many-sweater coats. Now I don't think I would have the gumption to wear an exact replica....but I can dream.....and create my own cardi.
:: Speaking of sewing with felted sweaters...check out these baby blankets and this bigger blanket. Love!
:: One of these days I want to learn how to crochet.....and then I want to play with colour, like Eclectic Gipsyland and Ceitaspasaule and many others....
:: I've been periodically checking out Pinterest....and tried to join, but my invitation didn't work (I think it's because I didn't have FB, and the delay - while I set up a special FB just for it - caused a problem....but that's a whole other story). Definitely lots of eye candy on there, but it's easy to get overstimulated and feel like everyone else is so perfect. In my research, though, I discovered something quite cool for other bloggers....Did you know that you can see what images people are pulling off/pinning to, from your blog? Copy and paste the following into your browser:
http://pinterest.com/source/fisheyerugs.blogspot.com/
(of course you need to remove my blog name and add your own. It will also work for other blog platforms and some websites, too .....)
Friday, February 03, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
Every week when I sit down to write this post, I think that I should start jotting down a list of things for next week's list right after I finish posting. So far I haven't managed to progress beyond that thinking stage...but maybe this coming week will be the week! :-) In the meantime, it's a pretty short list this week.....
:: I've knit a lot of shawls over the years, and I've decided that now I know that it is possible to knit my own sweaters that I lurve – and because a girl only needs so many shawls – that I wouldn't knit any more. But now Veera has designed this....and I'm having a very hard time resisting the pull....
:: A couple of years ago I kept reading about washi tape on blogs. Then when I was in NYC almost two years ago, I actually saw some in a store! I quickly snapped it up, treasured it and used it sparingly. But the more I used it, the more I loved it.....and the more I knew that I had to find a place to buy it in Canada. After a bit of hunting, I found Omiyage and placed an order with them last summer. Now I happily have a good supply, and feel free to add it to any project where the tape is visible. The colours are great and I especially love how it just the right amount of sticky. It makes great removable labels (it lifts off without leaving any residue behind), too. It helps to keep bags closed and easily resealable. And did I mention all of the pretty patterns and colours? <3
:: Sherlock. A modern day interpretation of the classic aired its first season last year (I got caught up on Netflix, following a recommendation by my cousin Laura). There are only 3 episodes per season, and they are almost movie length long (1.5-2 hours each). I was thinking that I would have to wait until May for season 2 on PBS, but last night I happened upon one by accident airing on BBC Canada. I didn't wait to start half-way into the episode, so I checked the schedule online...and it's back again on Sunday at 2pm and 10pm. I think I will have to take a little hooking break to really watch it.
:: I've knit a lot of shawls over the years, and I've decided that now I know that it is possible to knit my own sweaters that I lurve – and because a girl only needs so many shawls – that I wouldn't knit any more. But now Veera has designed this....and I'm having a very hard time resisting the pull....
:: A couple of years ago I kept reading about washi tape on blogs. Then when I was in NYC almost two years ago, I actually saw some in a store! I quickly snapped it up, treasured it and used it sparingly. But the more I used it, the more I loved it.....and the more I knew that I had to find a place to buy it in Canada. After a bit of hunting, I found Omiyage and placed an order with them last summer. Now I happily have a good supply, and feel free to add it to any project where the tape is visible. The colours are great and I especially love how it just the right amount of sticky. It makes great removable labels (it lifts off without leaving any residue behind), too. It helps to keep bags closed and easily resealable. And did I mention all of the pretty patterns and colours? <3
:: Sherlock. A modern day interpretation of the classic aired its first season last year (I got caught up on Netflix, following a recommendation by my cousin Laura). There are only 3 episodes per season, and they are almost movie length long (1.5-2 hours each). I was thinking that I would have to wait until May for season 2 on PBS, but last night I happened upon one by accident airing on BBC Canada. I didn't wait to start half-way into the episode, so I checked the schedule online...and it's back again on Sunday at 2pm and 10pm. I think I will have to take a little hooking break to really watch it.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
I'm waking up in Toronto this morning....but truth be told, I wrote this on Wednesday night, before I left :-) Hope you have a great weekend. Me, I'll be (hopefully) hooking up a storm, in an attempt to play catch-up from a lazy, sleepy start to the week.
:: Does your favourite sweater have a little snag or hole? Don't despair....check this out this tutorial on making a needle-felted patch instead. I think it's genius! Oh, the possibilities....
:: If you like doing your own nails, and want to do a bit of fun colour polish.... Step-by-step gradient manicure instructions here. It's like each nail is a different piece of the same swatch...
:: I love clothes that you can wear more than one way....and the more different ways, the better IMHO. Last spring I discovered the Origami and it's been a wardrobe staple ever since (cool video showing some of the many different ways you can wear it here). Last weekend I discovered a new clothing line called {r}evolution apparel, focusing on comfortable, versatile, fairtrade, sustainable clothing. They're just getting up and running this Spring, but you can pre-order their first piece: The Versalette. I will be sure to share more first hand reviews once mine arrives in April (I finally settled on Aluminum).
:: Rug Hooking Magazine has a new on-line e-zine called Rug Beat. I haven't subscribed yet, but it's on my list of things to do...and hopefully that happens this weekend. If you want to read some first hand accounts in the meantime, check out April's blog or Woolly Mammoth.
:: Some great things made with wool here. Sadly no hooked rugs, but I do love the necklace!
:: Does your favourite sweater have a little snag or hole? Don't despair....check this out this tutorial on making a needle-felted patch instead. I think it's genius! Oh, the possibilities....
:: If you like doing your own nails, and want to do a bit of fun colour polish.... Step-by-step gradient manicure instructions here. It's like each nail is a different piece of the same swatch...
:: I love clothes that you can wear more than one way....and the more different ways, the better IMHO. Last spring I discovered the Origami and it's been a wardrobe staple ever since (cool video showing some of the many different ways you can wear it here). Last weekend I discovered a new clothing line called {r}evolution apparel, focusing on comfortable, versatile, fairtrade, sustainable clothing. They're just getting up and running this Spring, but you can pre-order their first piece: The Versalette. I will be sure to share more first hand reviews once mine arrives in April (I finally settled on Aluminum).
:: Rug Hooking Magazine has a new on-line e-zine called Rug Beat. I haven't subscribed yet, but it's on my list of things to do...and hopefully that happens this weekend. If you want to read some first hand accounts in the meantime, check out April's blog or Woolly Mammoth.
:: Some great things made with wool here. Sadly no hooked rugs, but I do love the necklace!
Friday, January 20, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
This week is a little bit of a last-minute scramble to put together a list....but here goes....
:: Liberty introduced their Spring/Summer 2012 fabrics. You can see all of the gorgeous colourways here.....I've been drooling over them all day, and would love some company. There are some very pretty prints in this collection that I'd love to splurge on and add to my stash....but not until I get my first quilt sewn from my London souvenir stack. On my 'one day' list is to make a dress from Tana Lawn.....but I will wait and buy the fabric that sings to me when I'm actually ready to sew it (and wear it! :-D)
:: I downloaded Instagram app for my iPhone this week....and it's made taking photos using my phone a lot more fun - and the photos more interesting IMHO. I'm consistently amazed at how much better (like other world better) my new iPhone 4S photos are compared to my old 3G phone. It's not longer a complete catastrophe if I forget my camera at home....yippee!
Have a great weekend everyone -- I'll be busy hooking up a storm, in an effort to catch up with Christine. I think at this point the only thing that is going to help me win is a broken leg or ankle that keeps me at home....but maybe there is still hope!
:: I recently discovered Tiny Owl Knits and their super cute patterns. I followed the link on Dulcy's blog a couple of weeks ago and even knit my first felted ring! I think these hats will make great Christmas gifts next year for some of the littles in my life....and this reminds me of the real Mr. Foxy that lived in the dress up box at my Nanna and Poppa's house-- oh, how glamourous we felt with it clipped on our necks..
:: The Doris Eaton book I mentioned last week is also available in hardcover. I wish I'd known it before....since it's really going to be a 'forever book' for me.
:: I downloaded Instagram app for my iPhone this week....and it's made taking photos using my phone a lot more fun - and the photos more interesting IMHO. I'm consistently amazed at how much better (like other world better) my new iPhone 4S photos are compared to my old 3G phone. It's not longer a complete catastrophe if I forget my camera at home....yippee!
Have a great weekend everyone -- I'll be busy hooking up a storm, in an effort to catch up with Christine. I think at this point the only thing that is going to help me win is a broken leg or ankle that keeps me at home....but maybe there is still hope!
Friday, January 13, 2012
Friday Fabulousness and Favourites
After five years of blogging, I'm hoping to mix things up a bit and start adding some new features to this here place. One idea I had was to start posting a list of fabulous finds and some of my favourite things on Fridays. Some weeks there may be just one item, and other times there may be fifteen things on the list -- it's all new, so I'm sure it will evolve as the year unfolds. Here is my list for this week....
:: One Line a Day Journal. Discovered here. I ordered mine last weekend and it arrived yesterday. I've often contemplated writing a journal, but it seems like too much of a big commitment -- and what if someone else sat down and read it?!?!?!? I think this is just my speed -- totally achievable....and hey, not a lot of room for too much foolishness! :-D
:: A Lifetime of Rug Hooking by Doris Eaton. I ordered Doris' book last fall from Deanne....and just never got around to posting at the time, but it is - by far - the best rug hooking book I've read in a very long time, and if I'm being honest, the only one I've actually read from cover to cover in years. If you haven't seen it yet, I can't recommend it enough.
:: Apple tv. After both of my sisters got them for Christmas, I had to at least try to keep up, so now have my own. It's been great for watching Netflix on my tv without having to mess about with any cords. Plus, I can easily access all of my music, movies, etc. from my computer and play on my tv. It all makes for perfect background noise while I sit and hook.
:: Downton Abby. When I was in England last Fall, everyone was gushing about this show....and I knew I would have to check it out when I got home -- but I didn't want to start watching it mid-season, so I patiently waited. Over the holidays, I downloaded all of Season 1 on itunes for $9.99 and watched it together with my mum and dad. We all loved it! Season 2 airs on PBS on Sunday nights, starting last week.
:: Actor Tim Roth. I'm crushing on him after my marathon of watching all of the episodes from three seasons of Lie to Me (and wishing the whole time that it wouldn't end). I tried revisiting more of his past work, including Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Rob Roy, Four Rooms and the Legend of 1900 (all on Netflix, by the way!)....but the younger version is just not as appealing somehow. I guess I'm getting older....LOL!
:: One Line a Day Journal. Discovered here. I ordered mine last weekend and it arrived yesterday. I've often contemplated writing a journal, but it seems like too much of a big commitment -- and what if someone else sat down and read it?!?!?!? I think this is just my speed -- totally achievable....and hey, not a lot of room for too much foolishness! :-D
:: A Lifetime of Rug Hooking by Doris Eaton. I ordered Doris' book last fall from Deanne....and just never got around to posting at the time, but it is - by far - the best rug hooking book I've read in a very long time, and if I'm being honest, the only one I've actually read from cover to cover in years. If you haven't seen it yet, I can't recommend it enough.
:: Apple tv. After both of my sisters got them for Christmas, I had to at least try to keep up, so now have my own. It's been great for watching Netflix on my tv without having to mess about with any cords. Plus, I can easily access all of my music, movies, etc. from my computer and play on my tv. It all makes for perfect background noise while I sit and hook.
:: Downton Abby. When I was in England last Fall, everyone was gushing about this show....and I knew I would have to check it out when I got home -- but I didn't want to start watching it mid-season, so I patiently waited. Over the holidays, I downloaded all of Season 1 on itunes for $9.99 and watched it together with my mum and dad. We all loved it! Season 2 airs on PBS on Sunday nights, starting last week.
:: Actor Tim Roth. I'm crushing on him after my marathon of watching all of the episodes from three seasons of Lie to Me (and wishing the whole time that it wouldn't end). I tried revisiting more of his past work, including Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, Rob Roy, Four Rooms and the Legend of 1900 (all on Netflix, by the way!)....but the younger version is just not as appealing somehow. I guess I'm getting older....LOL!
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