Friday, November 20, 2009

Giving Thanks...

As Thanksgiving time nears, I am mindful of all the things for which I am thankful. First and foremost, I'm thankful for a loving family. And I'm thankful to have 3 of the greatest grandchildren around. They bring me much joy.

I'm also thankful for my health. For years I've taken good health for granted. And then when two car accidents injured my back in June, my health took a turn for the worse. I've had to really struggle to regain my health. I'm thankful to have two of the greatest physical therapists in the world. Both Mark and Joy have been there every step of the way helping...and sometimes pushing...me to work hard and get my strength back. It's amazing how a simple hug or a big smile can motivate me to keep trying. And even though I've still got some healing to do...both physically and emotionally...I'm making progress. For that, I am truly thankful.

Thankfulness doesn't even begin to express my gratitude to the wonderful gals that both work for me as staff and teach my classes. They encourage me...they watch out for me...they inspire me to keep learning new knitting and crocheting skills. I consider each of them a dear friend. I'm thankful to have them to work alongside me.

And speaking of friends, I've had so many new friends come into my life simply by walking in the door of my yarn shop. I get so excited to see them learn new skills...and I love to see them truly excited about the crafts I love. I'm thankful for each person that has helped me to build my business.

This next week as you celebrate Thanksgiving, why not spend some time thinking about the things for which you are thankful. You'll be amazed at how your spirit will be lifted up as you focus on the many blessings God has given you. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends!

Friday, November 13, 2009

Show and Tell Friday...

If you missed our Holiday Cookie Exchange and Book Signing last weekend, then you really missed out. The gals brought some delicious cookies and we enjoy seeing all of Andra Knight-Bowman's beautiful garments. We still have a few of her books left that are signed if you'd like a copy.

For Show and Tell today we have Daniel's felted hat and socks.


He also made one of Kristina's bookmarks out of the Presencia perle cotton.


Mary Beth brought by her Colonnade Shawl...which is a free pattern on Ravelry. She used Malabrigo yarn.


And she also brought the witch she made using one of Alan Dart's patterns. Too cute.



And finally, Sarah brought by her UT scarf she made out of Cascade 220 superwash yarn.




Great job on your finished projects, everyone!

Monday, November 9, 2009

Sometimes you just need a break...

Have you ever felt that you were pushing and pushing to get everything done...and yet still were so far behind? I've felt like that a lot the past few months. Last week Melissa gave me the day off. She said I was not to come to work...I was to go have some fun. I must admit it was hard for me. I wasn't quite sure what to do with myself. I did have 2 doctor appts. that day, but between them I picked up some lunch and went to Cove Park. After eating a leisurely lunch, I sat there on the park bench and just enjoyed the beautiful day. I could feel the warmth of the sun on my back...I could hear the birds singing...I could see the beautiful leaves and the water move as the wind blew across it. For just a short time, I felt relaxed and at peace. My life has been such a whirlwind the past few months since my car accidents. I'm better, but still in therapy. Many days I just feel too tired to continue going on. But then I get to have a day of rest and I'm rejuvenated...at least for a little while. I think we all need breaks every once in a while. Have you had a break lately? Try and find some time to just go and sit and enjoy the beautiful world that God has given us. I know I'm going to try to take breaks more often.



The Yarn Bowl Challenge is over. We had an independent judge come in to pick our winners. She said to tell you that many of you did wonderful jobs on your caps. It was very hard for her to choose, but here are the winners...

Most productive knitters and crocheters: Sandy Privets, Linda Cepeda, Kori Tisdale & Aggie Wallace (each of these ladies made over 250 caps each!!)

Most UT Spirit: Mary Beth Cox for her UT helmet hat


Most Unique: Kristina Plaas for her many cute original designs



We had a good time making all of these little caps. I'm glad we had the opportunity to help out our community hospitals.

Now go enjoy this beautiful day!!