tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3061228933080260462024-03-12T16:16:10.082-07:00SharonnzSharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comBlogger321125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-64906781240492684532011-11-12T23:48:00.000-08:002011-11-12T23:55:34.605-08:00"Let's just call it summer!"<div>Thus declared Miss Nine this afternoon. First BBQ of the season. Done.</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHQPdH4vBj8/Tr93KpQNe6I/AAAAAAAACa4/sO7xcJFTBoE/s1600/lawnmower.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 259px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHQPdH4vBj8/Tr93KpQNe6I/AAAAAAAACa4/sO7xcJFTBoE/s320/lawnmower.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674385080266357666" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SlvCST0W1ZI/Tr93FFyiaxI/AAAAAAAACas/6WbDJKYSFhw/s1600/jandal.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SlvCST0W1ZI/Tr93FFyiaxI/AAAAAAAACas/6WbDJKYSFhw/s320/jandal.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674384984847313682" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m1N9hO-wmio/Tr92-8Z6RuI/AAAAAAAACag/TExavRVFdLA/s1600/sunaht.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 184px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m1N9hO-wmio/Tr92-8Z6RuI/AAAAAAAACag/TExavRVFdLA/s320/sunaht.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674384879248885474" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFlmdlOUpXk/Tr923LAIqaI/AAAAAAAACaU/RZs0x0LlHDU/s1600/bbq%2Bbeer.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gFlmdlOUpXk/Tr923LAIqaI/AAAAAAAACaU/RZs0x0LlHDU/s320/bbq%2Bbeer.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674384745728354722" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKXThe0Fl6Q/Tr92tFNnFCI/AAAAAAAACaI/UeupmANHFko/s1600/salad.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKXThe0Fl6Q/Tr92tFNnFCI/AAAAAAAACaI/UeupmANHFko/s320/salad.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674384572375569442" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VurU1OI3mGE/Tr92kUW9PWI/AAAAAAAACZ8/Z21N7-A-320/s1600/dinner%2Boutside.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VurU1OI3mGE/Tr92kUW9PWI/AAAAAAAACZ8/Z21N7-A-320/s320/dinner%2Boutside.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674384421822479714" /></a>Best thing I bought this week? An EGG SLICER. A must for the hard-boiled eggs atop my summer salads;-)Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-22230159735509569472011-11-12T22:56:00.000-08:002011-11-12T23:05:40.414-08:00SweetPea<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SsKcyss1A4I/Tr9qmIhF4VI/AAAAAAAACZw/wEMOxMddfVg/s1600/Passionfruit%2Bcupcake.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SsKcyss1A4I/Tr9qmIhF4VI/AAAAAAAACZw/wEMOxMddfVg/s320/Passionfruit%2Bcupcake.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674371258863968594" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8JBV5ahLDI/Tr9qgCdtsEI/AAAAAAAACZk/Gn5FyqD6Huw/s1600/Strawberry%2Bcupcake.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8JBV5ahLDI/Tr9qgCdtsEI/AAAAAAAACZk/Gn5FyqD6Huw/s320/Strawberry%2Bcupcake.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674371154159972418" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Izn-IL-m2-0/Tr9qY3WXj1I/AAAAAAAACZY/lDn3MfF4e-E/s1600/Chocolate%2Bcupcake.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Izn-IL-m2-0/Tr9qY3WXj1I/AAAAAAAACZY/lDn3MfF4e-E/s320/Chocolate%2Bcupcake.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674371030917287762" /></a>I had a blissful weekend, hosting my <a href="http://randomthoughtskaren.blogspot.com/">Mind Twin</a>. We hit Petone for a wander and found <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SweetPeaPetone?sk=wall">SweetPea</a> for a wee bite to eat. I grabbed half a dozen of their scrummy cupcakes for afternoon tea. I did share them;-) Delicious! We saw another cupcake place, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Cupcakery/280265765331299?sk=wall">The Cupcakery</a>, is going to open too! So Petone is clearly now a cupcake lovers mecca.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-13530572282631333822011-11-08T18:35:00.001-08:002011-11-08T18:38:17.147-08:00Sewing It<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--sAYNdo-RNk/TrnnJ222Z_I/AAAAAAAACZM/gR2jndTUvTk/s1600/Parents%2BKindles.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--sAYNdo-RNk/TrnnJ222Z_I/AAAAAAAACZM/gR2jndTUvTk/s400/Parents%2BKindles.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672819362180261874" /></a>My parents have joined the e-reader revolution and bought themselves Kindles. This was a super easy, fun project. It just about took more time to select the fabrics than do the sewing.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-74512715311464918302011-11-02T14:55:00.000-07:002011-11-02T14:59:53.319-07:00Sustaining It<i>Wendell Berry:</i><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">How can a sustainable local community (which is to say a sustainable local economy) function? I am going to suggest a set of rules that I think such a community would have to follow. I hasten to say that I do not understand these rules as predictions; I am not interested in foretelling the future. If these rules have any validity, it is because they apply now.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">Supposing that the members of a local community wanted their community to cohere, to flourish, and to last, they would:</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">1. Always ask of any proposed change or innovation: What will this do to our community? How will this affect our common wealth.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">2. Always include local nature – the land, the water, the air, the native creatures – within the membership of the community.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">3. Always ask how local needs might be supplied from local sources, including the mutual help of neighbors.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">4. Always supply local needs first (and only then think of exporting products – first to nearby cities, then to others).</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">5. Understand the ultimate unsoundness of the industrial doctrine of ‘labor saving’ if that implies poor work, unemployment, or any kind of pollution or contamination.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">6. Develop properly scaled value-adding industries for local products to ensure that the community does not become merely a colony of national or global economy.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">7. Develop small-scale industries and businesses to support the local farm and/or forest economy.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">8. Strive to supply as much of the community’s own energy as possible.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">9. Strive to increase earnings (in whatever form) within the community for as long as possible before they are paid out.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">10. Make sure that money paid into the local economy circulates within the community and decrease expenditures outside the community.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">11. Make the community able to invest in itself by maintaining its properties, keeping itself clean (without dirtying some other place), caring for its old people, and teaching its children.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">12. See that the old and young take care of one another. The young must learn from the old, not necessarily, and not always in school. There must be no institutionalised childcare and no homes for the aged. The community knows and remembers itself by the association of old and young.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">13. Account for costs now conventionally hidden or externalised. Whenever possible, these must be debited against monetary income.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">14. Look into the possible uses of local currency, community-funded loan programs, systems of barter, and the like.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">15. Always be aware of the economic value of neighborly acts. In our time, the costs of living are greatly increased by the loss of neighborhood, which leaves people to face their calamities alone.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">16. A rural community should always be acquainted and interconnected with community-minded people in nearby towns and cities.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">17. A sustainable rural economy will depend on urban consumers loyal to local products. Therefore, we are talking about an economy that will always be more cooperative than competitive.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana, Geneva, Tahoma, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto; ">(<i>F</i><em style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; ">rom a speech delivered by ‘mad’ farmer, author, and cultural critic <a href="http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/arts/al0051.html" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-width: initial; border-color: initial; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; color: rgb(51, 102, 0); font-weight: bold; ">Wendell Berry</a> November 11, 1994 at the 23rd annual meeting of the Northern Plains Resource Council. Sourced <a href="http://sustainabletraditions.com/2010/10/wendell-berry-17-rules-for-a-sustainable-local-community/">here</a>.)</em></p></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-69231227016895416462011-10-23T16:25:00.001-07:002011-10-23T16:28:33.263-07:00Quilting It<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLihzY8Z7_U/TqSiplrm6EI/AAAAAAAACZA/L-Sji0DldQg/s1600/cowboy%2Bquilt%2B1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLihzY8Z7_U/TqSiplrm6EI/AAAAAAAACZA/L-Sji0DldQg/s320/cowboy%2Bquilt%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666833066512279618" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imYkN54vSiM/TqSikUpX5FI/AAAAAAAACY0/cLuBkCsX82E/s1600/cowboy%2Bquilt%2B2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imYkN54vSiM/TqSikUpX5FI/AAAAAAAACY0/cLuBkCsX82E/s320/cowboy%2Bquilt%2B2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666832976040158290" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c6ny_1iHOEw/TqSieo3BlHI/AAAAAAAACYo/0ZDHhRVJQe8/s1600/cowboy%2Bquilt%2B3.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c6ny_1iHOEw/TqSieo3BlHI/AAAAAAAACYo/0ZDHhRVJQe8/s320/cowboy%2Bquilt%2B3.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5666832878386910322" /></a>I finished a very simple lap quilt for the young man of the house last week. Very simple but it still produced a satisfying sense of achievement - of a completed project and of using stash fabrics.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-76500103403417204632011-09-04T19:49:00.001-07:002011-09-04T19:59:19.777-07:00Wearing It<div>I'm working hard on improving my sewing from the slap-happy beginner I am. My main struggle is with getting the fit right. I finished this dress back in June - just when it got too cold to wear it. Next time I'll downsize the top even more and attempt a proper Small Bust Adjustment. It's a forgiving fit being a wrap dress.</div><div>
<br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ni5ZRrkT3mI/TmQ4_JLpxVI/AAAAAAAACYg/vnCKr0Ha35s/s1600/crepe%2Bfront.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 179px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ni5ZRrkT3mI/TmQ4_JLpxVI/AAAAAAAACYg/vnCKr0Ha35s/s320/crepe%2Bfront.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648702490077152594" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7lu-9vNaw2M/TmQ47oeZhLI/AAAAAAAACYY/rV1bhpD80no/s1600/crepe%2Bback.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7lu-9vNaw2M/TmQ47oeZhLI/AAAAAAAACYY/rV1bhpD80no/s320/crepe%2Bback.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648702429757801650" /></a>
<br /><div>I bought Pip's <a href="http://meetmeatmikes.blogspot.com/2010/05/sew-la-tea-do-book.html">Sew La Tea Do</a> purely on the basis of the wrap around skirt pattern. The fabric screamed Holly Hobbie to me. Just the thing I was right into last time I wore wrap around skirts! Yeah, t-shirt doesn't match - will sort that out before summer.</div><div>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qjFml0HRXA/TmQ43t223fI/AAAAAAAACYQ/YJ7kTriqb8w/s1600/wraparound%2B2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 163px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qjFml0HRXA/TmQ43t223fI/AAAAAAAACYQ/YJ7kTriqb8w/s320/wraparound%2B2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648702362483088882" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-INV_1Bot3bI/TmQ40K39B2I/AAAAAAAACYI/5y0p9s5clIs/s1600/wraparound%2B1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-INV_1Bot3bI/TmQ40K39B2I/AAAAAAAACYI/5y0p9s5clIs/s320/wraparound%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648702301552838498" /></a>
<br /></div><div>And the Tunic dress from Sew La Tea Do. Again, I started out making it in the wrong size, then realised that women of a certain age and figure can't really wear tunics without looking like they're wearing a paper bag. So a bit of hacking and sewing makes this more wearable. Just.</div><div>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aldQA1Zgk2A/TmQ4uTqxtoI/AAAAAAAACYA/qgsIpSTY4Yk/s1600/tunic%2B1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 157px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aldQA1Zgk2A/TmQ4uTqxtoI/AAAAAAAACYA/qgsIpSTY4Yk/s320/tunic%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648702200834274946" /></a>
<br /></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-59108713510313419522011-08-07T13:55:00.000-07:002011-08-07T14:06:25.966-07:00Winning It<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KhtOkkp0KbI/Tj78GV-zdSI/AAAAAAAACXw/f7aO8VpiPjo/s1600/068.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KhtOkkp0KbI/Tj78GV-zdSI/AAAAAAAACXw/f7aO8VpiPjo/s400/068.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638220969424418082" /></a>I was blessed to win a giveaway <a href="http://mahiandaroha.blogspot.com/2011/06/giveaway.html">SweetP</a> had on her blog a while ago. I scored this fun <a href="http://www.tricottreat.blogspot.com/">Tri'Coterie</a> self-striping sock yarn which I whipped up into a pair of plain toe-up socks for ME (despite begging from other residents). It's Maylin's Red Queen colourway and I love the FUN of the stripes. SweetP also sent a sweet project bag, cute owl stickers and sweeties! It was such a lovely parcel to receive. Mwah!Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-47908373163530998172011-08-04T17:15:00.001-07:002011-08-04T17:22:05.780-07:00Making It<div>Sewing It: <a href="http://sewliberated.com/products/schoolhouse-tunic-sewing-pattern">Schoolhouse Tunic</a> - turned into a dress with front closures.</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P11X7NuZu8Y/Tjs2mrrgAeI/AAAAAAAACXo/KsnI689MQzE/s1600/Winter%2BSchoolhouse%2BFront.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P11X7NuZu8Y/Tjs2mrrgAeI/AAAAAAAACXo/KsnI689MQzE/s320/Winter%2BSchoolhouse%2BFront.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637159396772413922" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i1v4HJq5lY8/Tjs2fnRLKqI/AAAAAAAACXg/E8LNarKvZAU/s1600/Winter%2BSchoolhouse%2BBack.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 123px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i1v4HJq5lY8/Tjs2fnRLKqI/AAAAAAAACXg/E8LNarKvZAU/s320/Winter%2BSchoolhouse%2BBack.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637159275329170082" /></a>Knitting It: <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEff11/PATTleaflet.php">Leaflet Cardigan</a> - great layering piece.<div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OS4AdIOCZNw/Tjs2YaETZ-I/AAAAAAAACXY/xVgY726SBmw/s1600/Leaflet%2BFront.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OS4AdIOCZNw/Tjs2YaETZ-I/AAAAAAAACXY/xVgY726SBmw/s320/Leaflet%2BFront.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637159151526438882" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeEydmIxp9c/Tjs2Sz6GUZI/AAAAAAAACXQ/zG_aRCzJEP4/s1600/Leaflet%2BBack.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BeEydmIxp9c/Tjs2Sz6GUZI/AAAAAAAACXQ/zG_aRCzJEP4/s320/Leaflet%2BBack.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637159055383744914" /></a><br /></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-80806147162476689252011-08-03T16:45:00.001-07:002011-08-03T16:55:29.888-07:00Quilting It<div>I read <a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/">The Happiness Project</a> recently, and Gretchen's Personal Commandment to <a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/2006/07/do_you_hoard_yo.html">Spend Out</a> challenged me. So I opened the fabric stash and grabbed my <a href="http://sharonnz.blogspot.com/2008/09/balance.html">Ginger Blossom</a> that I've had for an embarrassing three years. Ugh. I hacked into it and whipped up this lap quilt (50" x 60") in one week. It's my second ever quilt, and the first one I've sandwiched, machine quilted and bound myself. I'm feeling very proud and satisfied seeing the kids using it every day on the couch.</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PE9hrrNQNXE/TjneCEYBcgI/AAAAAAAACXI/QCiO0LWnlqc/s1600/Ginger%2BBlossom%2BFront%2B1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PE9hrrNQNXE/TjneCEYBcgI/AAAAAAAACXI/QCiO0LWnlqc/s320/Ginger%2BBlossom%2BFront%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636780535746490882" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rr3uz804B0M/Tjnd64BGk6I/AAAAAAAACXA/dvjbsfFlMoE/s1600/Ginger%2BBlossom%2BFront%2B2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rr3uz804B0M/Tjnd64BGk6I/AAAAAAAACXA/dvjbsfFlMoE/s320/Ginger%2BBlossom%2BFront%2B2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636780412170048418" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiRCSzcj23w/TjndzRgAX4I/AAAAAAAACW4/C3kqwO5WIcI/s1600/Ginger%2BBlossom%2BBack.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiRCSzcj23w/TjndzRgAX4I/AAAAAAAACW4/C3kqwO5WIcI/s320/Ginger%2BBlossom%2BBack.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636780281571598210" /></a>Next target - that Very Hungry Caterpillar fabric in the same three year old post and some Michael Millar retro cowboy stuff I've also had sitting for far too long!Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-21592557617293001022011-08-02T21:15:00.001-07:002011-08-02T21:19:53.570-07:00Baking It<div>For the birds: Bird Seed Treats - to hang in our wintery trees.</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oYZ4ix5nP4/TjjLugZsh7I/AAAAAAAACWw/A683DYTWe-U/s1600/Bird%2BSeed%2BTreats.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oYZ4ix5nP4/TjjLugZsh7I/AAAAAAAACWw/A683DYTWe-U/s320/Bird%2BSeed%2BTreats.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636478933486307250" /></a>For the monkeys: Honeycomb Popcorn Clusters - no, I don't style my food like Donna Hay before taking a pic. These were made with our allotment grown miniature black popping corn.<div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fIejwWu_MHs/TjjLmlMPxPI/AAAAAAAACWo/M6J6Kuvz50o/s1600/Honeycomb%2BPopcorn%2BClusters.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fIejwWu_MHs/TjjLmlMPxPI/AAAAAAAACWo/M6J6Kuvz50o/s320/Honeycomb%2BPopcorn%2BClusters.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636478797333120242" /></a><br /></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-18012967927004894092011-06-28T22:18:00.000-07:002011-06-28T22:31:05.615-07:00Wearing It<div align="center">Winter Wardrobe Wednesday</div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GyNxAy1x9o4/Tgq2Dt6p7XI/AAAAAAAACWg/1H0VarzLzmo/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 182px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623507259706961266" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GyNxAy1x9o4/Tgq2Dt6p7XI/AAAAAAAACWg/1H0VarzLzmo/s320/015.JPG" /></a>Cardy: House of G<br />Knit for Tattoos T-shirt: Natalie Dee<br />Yoga Pants: Bamboo Body (bought yonks ago at Organic Baby in Petone)<br />Manky Slippers complete with toe air-holes: Egmont Tanneries<br />Accessories: Mister Six<br />Blurry Photo: Hubby not wearing his glasses<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rnAuG3Pz3h0/Tgq18Q7oMTI/AAAAAAAACWY/csA0tmqu1RU/s1600/017.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 265px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623507131667329330" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rnAuG3Pz3h0/Tgq18Q7oMTI/AAAAAAAACWY/csA0tmqu1RU/s320/017.JPG" /></a> We're reading one of our favourite books - the illustrations of <a href="http://www.geckopress.co.nz/Book_Detail_22.aspx?CategoryId=75&ProductId=116">Seasons</a> give me the warm fuzzies.</div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-32461369739091195732011-06-26T21:43:00.000-07:002011-06-26T21:54:32.915-07:00Learning It<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhzkLIeBqqI/TggLY0BW_3I/AAAAAAAACWQ/u1esQ18YXhs/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622756655681175410" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhzkLIeBqqI/TggLY0BW_3I/AAAAAAAACWQ/u1esQ18YXhs/s320/003.JPG" /></a> Pirates learn French.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c5xQ1LbeZh8/TggLSLk3THI/AAAAAAAACWI/LWZwj-OHNAA/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 273px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622756541745024114" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c5xQ1LbeZh8/TggLSLk3THI/AAAAAAAACWI/LWZwj-OHNAA/s320/001.JPG" /></a> Pirate Cowgirls learn maths. Relaxed on the couch. Cuz you can do that at home.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_OkMhcwn9ZA/TggLMUWlkmI/AAAAAAAACWA/C7mCl3YCcns/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 282px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622756441021846114" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_OkMhcwn9ZA/TggLMUWlkmI/AAAAAAAACWA/C7mCl3YCcns/s320/002.JPG" /></a> Boys learn fine motor skills. Good for the handwriting.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g2oUbyRg4vA/TggLFE3rXyI/AAAAAAAACV4/F4kPx6Wgpcw/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 222px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622756316606586658" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g2oUbyRg4vA/TggLFE3rXyI/AAAAAAAACV4/F4kPx6Wgpcw/s320/005.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J4InzMFOPrk/TggK8yGUmuI/AAAAAAAACVw/Lbze_yfLtyo/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622756174128782050" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J4InzMFOPrk/TggK8yGUmuI/AAAAAAAACVw/Lbze_yfLtyo/s320/004.JPG" /></a> I was able to flick through <a href="http://karenbenke.com/">Rip the Page</a> while visiting a Soul Sister in Auckland recently, after seeing it around the home-learning blogosphere. Looks worth a crack for ALL of us to try some creative writing this year. It's good for the Mum to keep Learning It too!</div></div></div></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-8919273647172561302011-06-25T20:10:00.001-07:002011-06-25T20:15:49.949-07:00Twitching It<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bOPfxVOnsGg/TgajdVhDkzI/AAAAAAAACVo/jKAc4YRO5-I/s1600/060.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 246px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bOPfxVOnsGg/TgajdVhDkzI/AAAAAAAACVo/jKAc4YRO5-I/s320/060.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622360909205967666" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9gxl5q6UCGk/TgajYFYzi4I/AAAAAAAACVg/mr0_4z80cBE/s1600/061.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 222px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9gxl5q6UCGk/TgajYFYzi4I/AAAAAAAACVg/mr0_4z80cBE/s320/061.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622360818977049474" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vaUhA8TQAQ/TgajSdn5u1I/AAAAAAAACVY/GDM3WvrPDVQ/s1600/059.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 282px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9vaUhA8TQAQ/TgajSdn5u1I/AAAAAAAACVY/GDM3WvrPDVQ/s320/059.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622360722403605330" /></a>It's that time of year again! The <a href="http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/biocons/gardenbird/">Annual Garden Bird Survey</a>! Join me for an hour this week, sitting and counting the birds in my garden. We get a wee bit cheatie and lure them in with lard and seed treats.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-11898698515827772682011-06-23T19:02:00.000-07:002011-06-23T19:18:29.651-07:00Fridaying It<div>It's been a funny old week. I had a minor op which will hopefully sort out, once and for all, an annoying problem. I'm feeling very grateful that we've been able to maintain a level of insurance that meant I could have this done when I needed it done, not when the public health system thought I needed it done.</div><div><br /></div><div>Some needed distractions:</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Making It</i>...a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/stripe-study-shawl">Stripe Study Shawl</a> which won't be stripey since I'm using a variegated yarn throughout. I couldn't resist it when I visited <a href="http://thelittlecraftstore.blogspot.com/">The Little Craft Store</a> in Auckland recently. </div><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hz2OScAPN8Y/TgPwsUY5WUI/AAAAAAAACVQ/ow-8G9tmu-c/s1600/001.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 251px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hz2OScAPN8Y/TgPwsUY5WUI/AAAAAAAACVQ/ow-8G9tmu-c/s320/001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621601404066552130" /></a><i>Reading It</i>...<a href="http://www.randomhouse.co.nz/data/media/documents/press%20releases/April_2011/Inside_Stories_PR.pdf">Inside Stories</a>. It wasn't going to cut it waiting at 21st on our library's reserve list. Thankfully, my mother-in-law had gifted me a <a href="http://www.parsons.net.nz/">Parsons</a> book voucher earlier in the year so I could get my grubby little housewifely mitts on this. (Despite being in love with my Kindle I haven't given up my true love of a real book in the hands, especially NZ ones!)<br /><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nndOXl9xNm4/TgPwlskSBGI/AAAAAAAACVI/LaMh_ngVH8U/s1600/002.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 260px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nndOXl9xNm4/TgPwlskSBGI/AAAAAAAACVI/LaMh_ngVH8U/s320/002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621601290297672802" /></a><br /></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-16990156373594051662011-06-20T18:27:00.000-07:002011-06-20T18:33:36.510-07:00Growing It<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LyENZOSm5EA/Tf_zlEu8knI/AAAAAAAACVA/QqB5VacUNpg/s1600/Garlic%2Bfor%2BSolstice%2BPlanting.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LyENZOSm5EA/Tf_zlEu8knI/AAAAAAAACVA/QqB5VacUNpg/s400/Garlic%2Bfor%2BSolstice%2BPlanting.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620478678233027186" /></a>Family circumstances this year have left me feeling a little frustrated with where our gardening is at. I've had my garlic and tree onions ready to be planted for a couple of months now, and even prepped the beds properly. I was hoping to get a bit of a jump on cooling soil temperatures. Now, it's Winter Solstice already and the garlic are still sitting there unlikely to be planted any time soon. As much as the Solstice is about a return to light and longer (colder!) days, for me it will also be about letting go and rolling with what life throws at us.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-37667857350394798142011-06-19T21:38:00.001-07:002011-06-19T21:48:13.868-07:00Making It<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cG4ZxGI3m6I/Tf7PQmhZAVI/AAAAAAAACU4/H8dr2_MD5Po/s1600/Oil%2BLamp%2B1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cG4ZxGI3m6I/Tf7PQmhZAVI/AAAAAAAACU4/H8dr2_MD5Po/s320/Oil%2BLamp%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620157269130412370" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gAoKkZ-Zyq8/Tf7PI7OA6MI/AAAAAAAACUw/PQySAP6C47Q/s1600/Oil%2BLamp%2B2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gAoKkZ-Zyq8/Tf7PI7OA6MI/AAAAAAAACUw/PQySAP6C47Q/s320/Oil%2BLamp%2B2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620157137247332546" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb4lyH-7ne4/Tf7O-8ui0EI/AAAAAAAACUo/wypQDbYkgv0/s1600/Oil%2BLamp%2B3.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb4lyH-7ne4/Tf7O-8ui0EI/AAAAAAAACUo/wypQDbYkgv0/s320/Oil%2BLamp%2B3.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620156965853515842" /></a>I feel I need a little positive encouragement in some of our lifestyle choices at the moment so bought myself <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1605294624?ie=UTF8&tag=homegrrevolu-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1605294624">Making It</a>. I enjoy reading <a href="http://www.rootsimple.com/">Kelly & Erik's blog</a> - because they sound so, um, normal, and their efforts look like things we can actually do here and now. Sure enough...Project 1: Olive Oil Lamps. I had the licorice tin, the wick (doesn't everyone have wick just laying around?) and of course, the olive oil. Voila! The kids are thrilled with it. We're all looking forward to going slowly through the book and ticking a few more things off...some we're already doing, some very achievable.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-36574763487148147722011-06-18T19:21:00.000-07:002011-06-18T19:32:48.780-07:00And again...<div><a href="http://sharonnz.blogspot.com/2010/04/laptop-cozy.html">Recurring</a> theme...</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QsbttI_PuGE/Tf1eDzau3MI/AAAAAAAACUg/x8lrErGx-Gw/s1600/Kindle%2BSleeve%2B1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QsbttI_PuGE/Tf1eDzau3MI/AAAAAAAACUg/x8lrErGx-Gw/s320/Kindle%2BSleeve%2B1.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619751329463196866" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGAJiBhU9sg/Tf1d5EJzHOI/AAAAAAAACUY/117sHJ2C-uE/s1600/Kindle%2BSleeve%2B2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 283px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGAJiBhU9sg/Tf1d5EJzHOI/AAAAAAAACUY/117sHJ2C-uE/s320/Kindle%2BSleeve%2B2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619751144977013986" /></a>I'm not so into the hipster, smart, modern looking e-reader accessories so whipped up this "granny chic" Kindle Cozy. Instead of (sensibly) using stash fabric and going all matchy matchy with my Laptop Cozy I was hooked on using some home decor weight linen. Unfortunately it's ended up a bit more granny than chic but was lovely to sew with and has given me a nice, thick, safe result.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-8439771170116865872011-06-16T18:43:00.000-07:002011-06-16T18:48:40.097-07:00And again...<div><a href="http://sharonnz.blogspot.com/2010/07/winter-craft.html">Recurring</a> theme...</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IEfUdSTqz-I/Tfqxg8hs7lI/AAAAAAAACUQ/hM1q2S2iuOw/s1600/2%2Binch%2Bhexagons.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 283px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IEfUdSTqz-I/Tfqxg8hs7lI/AAAAAAAACUQ/hM1q2S2iuOw/s400/2%2Binch%2Bhexagons.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618998664659529298" /></a>Love, love, LOVE English paper piecing. This <i>will</i> be a lap quilt for the couch. They're 2" hexagons so it's not too daunting for me. Some of the repro' fabrics were gifted to me by one of my <a href="http://randomthoughtskaren.blogspot.com/">Soul Sisters</a> so it's a very special, mindful project for me.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-31882260203599750112011-06-15T17:59:00.001-07:002011-06-15T18:00:58.143-07:00And again...<div>Recurring theme...</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fonKj3GuArQ/TflVcOssKVI/AAAAAAAACUI/R80Fve985KA/s1600/Blue%2BTattoo%2B-%2Bat%2Bwork%2B-%2Bblog.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 329px; height: 282px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fonKj3GuArQ/TflVcOssKVI/AAAAAAAACUI/R80Fve985KA/s400/Blue%2BTattoo%2B-%2Bat%2Bwork%2B-%2Bblog.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618615953591642450" /></a>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-76290519198305379702011-06-14T18:40:00.001-07:002011-06-28T22:31:32.181-07:00Winter Wardrobe Wednesday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7zdUhoX5F0/TfgNuEYP-UI/AAAAAAAACUA/I4T57C7n268/s1600/Wed%2BWardrobe%2B15%2BJune.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 177px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618255620245289282" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7zdUhoX5F0/TfgNuEYP-UI/AAAAAAAACUA/I4T57C7n268/s400/Wed%2BWardrobe%2B15%2BJune.JPG" /></a>I've been a little horrified at how quickly Winter Wardrobe Wednesday comes around each week on other people's blogs! <br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Much needed new haircut: James at Wildelocks on Cuba.</div><br /><div>Cardy: House of G.</div><br /><div>Dress: Thrifted. 50 cents! Go Levin!</div><br /><div>Pants: Moa - my new winter wardrobe staple.</div><br /><div>Shoes: Simple leather High Tops</div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-50849253011966050662011-05-15T18:09:00.000-07:002011-05-15T18:22:13.618-07:00More Autumn Knits<div>I have finished a variety of knitted objects while I've been somewhat inactive. Yes, that unusually shaped jersey IS for a dog - my sister's daschund, Lottie. Crazy, I've gone crazy. Knitting for a dog. Golly.</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-di4qOG7tYgY/TdB6S7NTrQI/AAAAAAAACT0/3hXNt55bkE8/s1600/Lottiew%25C3%25A4rmer%2B2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-di4qOG7tYgY/TdB6S7NTrQI/AAAAAAAACT0/3hXNt55bkE8/s320/Lottiew%25C3%25A4rmer%2B2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607116001626008834" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nSDbypapXAc/TdB6N-rlwlI/AAAAAAAACTs/sJIwiEH_qoI/s1600/Lottiew%25C3%25A4rmer.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nSDbypapXAc/TdB6N-rlwlI/AAAAAAAACTs/sJIwiEH_qoI/s320/Lottiew%25C3%25A4rmer.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607115916658983506" /></a>Baby knitting to use up stash yarn. This wee cardy is a lovely <a href="http://knitsoquaint.blogspot.com/2011/05/puerperium-cardigan.html">new pattern</a> from Kelly. I've cast on another one already.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4Sj-xNBkX4/TdB6JAVK8wI/AAAAAAAACTk/o2bloI95A4M/s1600/Lipstick%2BPuerperium.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 261px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4Sj-xNBkX4/TdB6JAVK8wI/AAAAAAAACTk/o2bloI95A4M/s320/Lipstick%2BPuerperium.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607115831202476802" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGG4DAJTb3s/TdB6DF9QvBI/AAAAAAAACTc/r1M0YFCHF6c/s1600/Paxton%2Bin%2BBlues%2Band%2BSocks.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGG4DAJTb3s/TdB6DF9QvBI/AAAAAAAACTc/r1M0YFCHF6c/s320/Paxton%2Bin%2BBlues%2Band%2BSocks.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607115729633590290" /></a>More socks for ME. These are modeled by my big girl who is trying to tell me that she fits my socks and shoes. Not quite yet!<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3vs4NZtjkuk/TdB57iIPjkI/AAAAAAAACTU/uMzG8ReG7oU/s1600/Pretty%2BLacies.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3vs4NZtjkuk/TdB57iIPjkI/AAAAAAAACTU/uMzG8ReG7oU/s320/Pretty%2BLacies.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607115599756889666" /></a>More stashing busting - a felted tote.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3sgjKEH6_EQ/TdB514SpNXI/AAAAAAAACTM/iqd6H6Hqnz4/s1600/Stash%2BBusting%2BTote%2B3.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 303px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3sgjKEH6_EQ/TdB514SpNXI/AAAAAAAACTM/iqd6H6Hqnz4/s320/Stash%2BBusting%2BTote%2B3.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607115502626878834" /></a>I knitted Master Six this vest which fits his nearly 12 year old sister better - oops.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OIhowruVx-M/TdB5twMjsrI/AAAAAAAACTE/YmD8h6ko4Bk/s1600/Charcoal%2BMilo.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OIhowruVx-M/TdB5twMjsrI/AAAAAAAACTE/YmD8h6ko4Bk/s320/Charcoal%2BMilo.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607115363014914738" /></a>Plenty more knitting planned for the winter months ahead.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-66395387373456390582011-05-09T16:44:00.001-07:002011-05-09T16:46:20.687-07:00Winter Slipper Factory<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8qqZ-2G8i0/Tch8jKdKW2I/AAAAAAAACS8/2a8Bf0-kTIc/s1600/Winter%2B2011%2BSlipper%2BFactory.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 218px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8qqZ-2G8i0/Tch8jKdKW2I/AAAAAAAACS8/2a8Bf0-kTIc/s400/Winter%2B2011%2BSlipper%2BFactory.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604866679806516066" /></a>Pair of felted slippers for each child. DONE.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-45229057860486049062011-05-05T22:49:00.001-07:002011-05-05T23:13:00.560-07:00John Barleycorn<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fxkaTj_xtKI/TcONRUmnduI/AAAAAAAACSs/Hj1gZOXSLjk/s1600/Barley.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fxkaTj_xtKI/TcONRUmnduI/AAAAAAAACSs/Hj1gZOXSLjk/s320/Barley.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603477690107000546" /></a>We've been enjoying a CD of <a href="http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=991362">Celtic Songs for Children</a> alongside our learning this term. One of the songs is a traditional English folk tune called John Barleycorn - about turning barley into beer - a subject close to the heart of <a href="http://sharonnz.blogspot.com/2007/08/family-brewery.html">Man</a> of the <a href="http://sharonnz.blogspot.com/2008/11/suburban-livestock-part-two.html">House</a>. In yet another moment of home learning serendipity I discovered this awesome book at the library this week.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><u><br /></u></span></div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ItqkE6g2jhg/TcOM6ySz0zI/AAAAAAAACSc/DLAOLxB4Zv0/s1600/John%2BBarleycorn%2BBook.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ItqkE6g2jhg/TcOM6ySz0zI/AAAAAAAACSc/DLAOLxB4Zv0/s320/John%2BBarleycorn%2BBook.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603477302939996978" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">The farmer would have a corn doll in a place of honour over the mantle. We made some corn/wool dollies today and I've put one on my mantle. Maybe it will ensure a better barley harvest for Hubby. Sadly, the birds got all of his last one.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DaTPViG3nBM/TcOMkVih8oI/AAAAAAAACSM/UEy7KuZNcFE/s1600/Corn%2BDollies.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DaTPViG3nBM/TcOMkVih8oI/AAAAAAAACSM/UEy7KuZNcFE/s320/Corn%2BDollies.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603476917264183938" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pN53RXFGGP4/TcOMcx3kCUI/AAAAAAAACSE/Nb6r2ZmKQ6w/s1600/Mantlepiece%2BCorndoll.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pN53RXFGGP4/TcOMcx3kCUI/AAAAAAAACSE/Nb6r2ZmKQ6w/s320/Mantlepiece%2BCorndoll.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603476787429640514" /></a>We did have a good self-sown pumpkin harvest this year. I'm seeing soup and pie in my future.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOhyHNc2pFs/TcOMOaS3DMI/AAAAAAAACR8/OFJMKfTIghg/s1600/Autumn%2B2011%2BPumpkins.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOhyHNc2pFs/TcOMOaS3DMI/AAAAAAAACR8/OFJMKfTIghg/s320/Autumn%2B2011%2BPumpkins.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603476540583513282" /></a>We found this lovely mushroom specimen in our garden this morning too.</div><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GgDffRYf62E/TcOMEgIqjUI/AAAAAAAACR0/H9KjDLDxeao/s1600/Gnome%2B%2526%2BToadstool.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GgDffRYf62E/TcOMEgIqjUI/AAAAAAAACR0/H9KjDLDxeao/s320/Gnome%2B%2526%2BToadstool.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603476370352672066" /></a><br /></div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-64798544667484698352011-04-24T21:46:00.001-07:002011-04-24T21:58:54.801-07:00Autumn Knits<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UBzQYH7RJ50/TbT80XvkkxI/AAAAAAAACRs/1ZMPbsdDnwQ/s1600/Windy%2BCity%2BScarf%2BInk.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 185px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UBzQYH7RJ50/TbT80XvkkxI/AAAAAAAACRs/1ZMPbsdDnwQ/s320/Windy%2BCity%2BScarf%2BInk.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599378213385310994" /></a>A gorgeous group of girlfriends gifted me (howzat for alliteration?) this stunning <a href="http://www.knitsch.co.nz/shop/">yarn</a> as a pick me up after a recent bout of ill health. See, I'm smiling - it worked! They even matched it perfectly to my current WIP (Work in Progress) ink;-) Of course I had to use a pattern designed by one of them. Scrummy, scrummy, scrummy <a href="http://shortly24.wordpress.com/2011/04/07/garden-city-scarf/">scarf</a> for winter.<div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x53530oSWEg/TbT8trEDdPI/AAAAAAAACRk/uha0pXGSp5s/s1600/Midnight%2BGooseberry.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 216px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x53530oSWEg/TbT8trEDdPI/AAAAAAAACRk/uha0pXGSp5s/s320/Midnight%2BGooseberry.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599378098312410354" /></a>I'm trying to perfect my "gazing thoughtfully into the distance" look but am really thinking about how badly I need a haircut after being housebound for a weeny while. My Finished Object is a jubbly winter cardy. I am such the cardy gal so am super pleased with how this turned out. Not too big, not too small - JUST right!</div><div><br /></div><div>The weather has turned and so have my thoughts, to planning my Winter Knits.</div>Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-306122893308026046.post-17709115915767898152011-04-24T20:18:00.001-07:002011-04-24T20:20:01.231-07:00Procrastination<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c6VUGVHbEBo/TbToD6fKbwI/AAAAAAAACRc/N3wUiBPMVhI/s1600/Procrastinatowl.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 398px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c6VUGVHbEBo/TbToD6fKbwI/AAAAAAAACRc/N3wUiBPMVhI/s400/Procrastinatowl.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599355390665584386" /></a>Um, yes. It's amazing what urgent and important knitting projects you can find when you have other jobs you should be doing around the house. I have named him Procrastinatowl.Sharonnzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03208823723100893963noreply@blogger.com