Laura's Tatting Muse

Hey everybody!

2010-07-22T11:33:00.001-05:00

Check out the Lep blog. Oisin and I have visitors!

BIG, HUGE, ANNOUNCEMENT!

2010-07-03T09:26:00.003-05:00

Isaac is going to be a big brother! Of course that means Bill and I get one more grandbaby. We are all so excited, for our daughter's family and for ourselves. We will have one new baby at the end of December and this new baby at the first of February. God's blessings are bountiful and so appreciated! Get ready to hear much more about these babies, and big brother/cousin, from now on!!!

Isaac and his guitar

2010-06-14T18:22:00.001-05:00

This link is for diehard Isaac fans only! The rest of you might be bored to tears. These pictures are of him showing off with his new guitar. He is our never ending source of joy! Hope they make you smile!

Isaac and his guitar

Lovely gift from Faizon

2010-06-07T09:49:00.000-05:00

Not often do you find a friend as good, caring and selfless as our Jon. She sent me these beautiful snowflakes last week. In the card she says that she knows I haven't been able to do much tatting lately and that she doesn't want to miss reading about my rainbow tree. So, here are three to get you started. And, she made them with precious hand dyed thread - the two big ones by Tatskool and the smaller one by Lady Shuttle Maker.

It is amazing the friends we all have made, some of them from the other side of the world. What a wondrous age in which we are blessed to live. Even with all the problems of the world, we are able to reach out to each other and create bonds that will last a life time.

Thank you so much, Jon, for your love, friendship, talent and generosity. You are a good sister indeed. Maybe soon I will be better and able to create acts of kindness for you and others. I miss you all very much.

Boudreaux 1990 - 2010

2010-06-06T15:11:00.002-05:00

Our precious Boudreaux has gone to a better place. A place full of joy, friends and no pain. We will miss him terribly but he lived a very long, happy life and is now at peace. The beautiful young lady is our daughter Krista. He has another beautiful sister named Candace who doesn't happen to be in this picture of him. He was a good companion to all of us and a good guard dog for Isaac.

Much thanks to Banfield Pet Clinic for their compassion and kindness during this time.

Exciting News!

2010-05-27T10:18:00.003-05:00

I'm going to be "Lala" again! Our youngest daughter and her husband are expecting their first child. They just came over to tell us last night. She will be nine weeks tomorrow and due December 31st.

Isaac is excited about the baby too. Hope that will last after it gets here!

With my niece and one of my adopted daughters, Sherry, that makes 3 babies we are expecting this Fall/Winter. God's blessings runneth over!

Looks like knitting will be the focus for a few months now. Tatting will have to wait again.

Cowboy Isaac

2010-05-13T20:14:00.002-05:00

No tatting to show off yet, but I have to show you these pictures of my heart. He brings pure joy into the house when he arrives. Wednesday was cowboy/cowgirl day at school. We made these pictures before we went. They panned for gold and line danced. Can you see he is practicing?

Hope to have tatting pictures soon. I'm having a bit of difficulty getting back into the swing of it.

I TATTED LAST NIGHT!

2010-04-26T21:24:00.002-05:00

Yes, that's right. I tatted FIVE rings last night. I know it is very little. However it has been since December and I am pleased to have accomplished it.

Moving right along.

Isaac's First Recreational Vehicle!

2010-04-24T15:25:00.004-05:00

I know many of you have given up on me, but here I am. I won't even begin to tell you all the things that have happened since my last post. I hope to try to tat again in the next couple of days.

Meanwhile, here is a picture of my Isaac so you can see how big he has gotten. He designed this RV all by himself. He tells Granddaddy that he is Lala's boy and I'm HIS Lala! Melts my heart.

Hope all of you are well and that I can get back to posting regularly very soon. Big hugs and love to you.

Snow in the deep South

2009-12-06T19:34:00.001-06:00

I just wanted to share our Saturday morning Winter Wonderland with you. We don't get snow often, even just this little bit so it is very special. Hope you enjoy the pictures.

I'M ALIVE!

2009-12-03T16:26:00.002-06:00

Hello dear friends. I really am still around. I just can't tat and it is unbearable! I hope you are all well and enjoy the holiday season.

Here are two pictures of my tree this year. I will have to start turning it around and get pictures of the other sides. It is covered.

Here are pictures of the angels and snowflakes I have tatted or been given this year. I really expected to have many more made. Oh, well.

Maybe I can force myself to get back into blogging even if I can't tat. Merry Christmas!

Tatting gifts from Carol L.

2009-11-02T07:56:00.003-06:00

I wish my camera made better pictures so you could see how lovely these two pieces really are. These were totally unexpected gifts from a very sweet friend. She knows how bad I have been feeling most of this year. She said as she was tatting the lotus flower, she was thinking of me and knew it was to be mine. Sooo Sweet! It is on a lovely pink cord with pink ribbon and I love it. The heart is a beautiful pink that just doesn't show up in the picture. It is attached to the bottom of the letter printed on pretty, rose stationery.

Thank you so much Carol for these precious gifts. Please forgive me for being a while getting them posted. I have worn the necklace several times and get many questions about it. You are a doll!

I WON, I WON!

2009-10-25T09:39:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time since I won anything and I am so happy to break that dry spell with this win. I can't wait to try out a bead spinner. Thank you so much to Lady Shuttle Maker for all of her contributions to the tatting community. Her generosity is humbling. Furthermore, Whoo Hoo!

Lady Shuttle Maker's Mondo Monday Giveaway

2009-10-21T18:39:00.002-05:00

This week's prize is really a jewel - a bead spinner! I have always wanted one. I hate to tell you to go over and sign up as that decreases my chances of winning, but I promised!

Chinese Dragon in Purple Punch

2009-10-04T14:26:00.004-05:00

Thank you so much Anne Bruvold for sharing this wonderful pattern! Look here for the pattern. I thoroughly enjoyed tatting it start to finish. Wish the scan was better. I have a hard time with things that are not flat. Yes, that is a real pearl in it's mouth! The thread is "Purple Punch" in size 50 by Yarnplayer. Red and yellow might have been better colors for a Chinese dragon, but I really wanted a purple one! I know I don't usually tat in size 50, but I have my first ever Ott lamp and I can see the stitches! I love the smaller threads as they give a much more lacey look to the tatting. Now that I can see, I have to tat snowflakes in this thread. I thought I would have some thread left on my shuttles with which to start a snowflake. Not so! It took a total of 14.5 yards on shuttle one and 12 yards on shuttle two. I had started with 10 yards on each. (You might need more or less, but this gives you an idea.) Thanks again, Anne!

Blonde Heart's October Giveaway

2009-10-02T17:51:00.003-05:00

Kelly at Blondeheart is having the cutest giveaway. It is a cubcake, one of the adorable little bears she has been making for so long. Go see!

Lady Shuttle Maker's Giveaway

2009-09-28T12:02:00.003-05:00

Here we are with another Monday. Do yourself a favor and go to Lady Shuttle Maker's blog and register for her giveaway. The more entries, the more prizes!

Magic Moment Snowflake

2009-09-25T18:38:00.002-05:00

I tatted Jon's Magic Moments Snowflake in size 20 thread. The hand dyed thread is "Granny Smith" by Lady Shuttle Maker. In size 20, it measures 4 3/4". I used 8 yards of thread on shuttle 1 and 13 yards of thread on shuttle 2. This is a fun design to tat with all the changing of the shuttles and directions, but not at all hard. Before I finished, I was just looking at the previous repeats instead of the chart. I only used the written directions to get started. I think this one will be repeated. Watch for it in another size, maybe!

2009-09-24T10:07:00.003-05:00

I wanted to share these pictures with you here in case you don't go to my story blog. This is a picture of my grandparents house. We lived here part of my childhood and the rest of it, next door to here. It was the most special place in the world.

Here is what was left after the freeway moved us out. Go to I REMEMBER for the story if you want to read it.

Aileen's Hallowversary Giveaway

2009-09-23T15:09:00.002-05:00

I just read where Aileen of Aileen's Wicked Tats is having a giveaway. If you win one of her prizes, you won't be disappointed. Visit her here to enter.

Favorite Spring Blossom Snowflake

2009-09-16T18:16:00.001-05:00

This is my favorite Spring Blossom snowflake in Apple Blossom. I used variegated thread on both shuttles for the first round. Then for the second round, I used one with the darkest pink for the outside and variegated for the inside rings. I could have used the shoelace trick to make the chains going up to the trefoils in the pink, but I think it looks nice this way. Way to go on dyeing this thread Tatskool and thanks to Jon Faizon for her wonderful snowflake designs.

Lady Shuttle Maker's first Monday giveaway

2009-09-14T12:09:00.003-05:00

Hurry over to Lady Shuttle Maker's Blog for a visit and don't forget to leave a comment for the giveaway. No matter which prize you win, they will be fantastic.

Help with Dragon Presentation

2009-09-13T09:49:00.003-05:00

I need help! I want to display the dragons as closely to the scene in the book as possible. No matter how I display them, I am going to have to sew them onto a piece of fabric before they can be framed. In the book, they are fighting over what they call "The Burning Plains." Thus I imagine it would be earthy tones with tan, brown and red where the fire breakes through the earths crust. I just don't see this working. My brother suggested a black velvet sky with crystals for stars, a mother of pearl moon and some rocks at the bottom of the shadow box to look like crags.

All suggestions will be appreciated. I want the art of the tatted pieces to be the main focus in the presentation. It should look classy and not overdone.

Like I said, I need help!

Spring Blossom Snowflakes

2009-09-12T10:53:00.003-05:00

As I was tatting Jon's Spring Blossom Snowflake in Yarnplayer's Rhubarb Pie, I thought "wait a minute. This needs to be tatted in Tatskool's Apple Blossom hand dyed thread!" I had three solids from the colorway and used them for the centers, as you can see. I may tat one more in all Apple Blossom. We'll see. So much tatting, so little time!

I just noticed that I scanned 2 of them upside down! Oops.

Spring Blossom Snowflake in Rhubarb Pie

2009-09-09T07:46:00.001-05:00

I think Jon's Spring Blossom Snowflake looks so pretty in Yarnplayer's Rhubarb Pie hand dyed thread. I like this pattern a lot. Be looking for more rainbow snowflakes soon!

Presenting "Thorn The Dragon"

2009-09-07T17:20:00.002-05:00

Here is Thorn from book two by Christopher Paolini. The name of the book is "Eldest." The pattern is by Karey Solomon -more or less. I had a difficult time figuring out several parts of it. If it taught me anything, it was that you have to know what you are doing and not expect to be "spoon fed" the pattern.

The beads are lovely, vintage size 11 seed beads from a little shop in Gulf Shores, Alabama. I bought them over a year ago and just now got brave enough to use them. I wish they were more visible here, but they probably need to be photographed in the sun and I just can't go out there! The thread is size 20 Lizbeth.

I know you have already seen Saphira, but I wanted to present them as I might frame them - in battle.

New Blog - I REMEMBER

2009-08-23T20:28:00.005-05:00

I have started a new blog. I wanted a place to put all of my stories, both published and non-published. This will be a good way to insure that I don't lose any of them. I hope that you will enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy sharing
them. Shoud you want to copy and reuse any of them as my aunt sometimes did in her church bulletins, please just let me know. I know that by publishing them here, I take the chance of loosing control of them, but I hope that will not be the case. Here is the link. I hope you will add it to your blog.
I REMEMBER

Happy reading!

The Letter Carrier brought surprises yesterday!

2009-08-22T10:30:00.003-05:00

I received by thread order from Tatskool yesterday afternoon. I am so excited! As soon as I finish the dragon I am making, I think I will start a doily with this thread. I think it is just yummy. It is, of course, from her hand dyed Choco Raspberry collection and most of the colors will work in my bedroom with Yarnplayer's Rhubarb Crisp.

I had a super surprise in with my order. Along with some extra thread, I discovered I was the friend for whom Tatskool was making the heart! She is such a sweetie and wanted to cheer me up. It worked!

Here is a picture of the end table where I display my heart collection. I bet lots of you recognize your patterns, thread and hearts that you have sent to me. Thank you all so much for being a huge part of my family. You are all in my heart!

The Color of My Rainbow

2009-08-21T21:03:00.000-05:00

Your rainbow is strongly shaded violet.

What is says about you: You are a creative person. You appreciate beauty and craftsmanship. You are patient and will keep trying to understand something until you've mastered it.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

Saphira The Dragon

2009-08-14T12:26:00.001-05:00

I couldn't decide which I liked better, so I posted both pictures. This is one of Karey Solomon's dragons from "Here Be Dragons." I named her Saphira after the dragon in the book "Eragon" by Christopher Paolini. That is the last book I read as my eyes were getting so bad. The second book, "Eldest", I have listed to on cd's. I have yet to listen to the third book. I really like them a lot. I think we all need a bit of fantasy to brighten up or days, especially when we are not feeling well.

I must say this dragon was quite a challenge. I had to start over once, but I finally figured out that I was supposed to be making my beaded joins with the ball thread. Duh! I still had to do a lot of retro tatting, but I am very pleased to completed it and happy with the way it looks - mostly. One big tip for what it is worth, don't tat too tightly and leave a little slack in the beaded picots. You will be able to make it lay much flatter that way. Also, I wish the top claw was lower on the body. I will work on that next time, if there is a next time. We'll see. One of the other dragons is red and the other is gold but I don't know if my eyes or my arthritis will allow me to tat them.

Oh, the thread is size 20 Flora and the beads are size 10. They are not very nice beads so the sizes varied too much. The eye bead is a nice one from an old pair of earrings and the tooth beads are pearls.

Pay It Forward

2009-08-14T12:14:00.001-05:00

I wanted to share with you the lovely gifts from my pay it forward partner, Aileen. I am so pleased with them and thank her so much. The card has two tatted butterflies on the front and one inside with a very sweet note. The pink disk is a tape measure that she has covered with felt and put tatting on it. The other side has a cute little button that you pull to draw the tape back in. I keep that in my little tatting bag. The crochet hook with the cover on the end was much needed. I had broken one recently. I haven't decided on the use of the sequins yet, but I will. I had hoped to put them on a dragon I was tatting, but couldn't make it work. I'm sure they will decide what they want to be. And a whole roll of ribbon in my favorite color! I am always looking for ribbon.

Thank you so much, Aileen.

Baby Isaac project finished!

2009-08-02T18:44:00.001-05:00

Here is the finished project. Just wish I could have gotten a better photo of it. I zoomed in so you can see it better. The frame is white wood. Plain and simple. Yarnplayer's Rhubarb Pie in all of it's glory! This will go in my room with all the other Rhubarb Pie tatting.

Proud Beauty

2009-07-24T19:15:00.001-05:00

As many of you know, I have been working on this doily intermittently for several months. It was supposed to have eight motifs joined and a rose center. The more rows I put on the rose, the longer the chains, (of course), and my arthritis just won't let me finish it. So..... I have joined it together and I have another purpose for it. I think you will all like it very much. It will probably be a couple of weeks before I can show you the finished project as I have to wait for part of it to be done somewhere else and sent to me.

I spent maybe a total of 30 minutes yesterday finishing the end of one of the motifs and then joining two motifs together to make a circle. My head was pounding and I could hardly see by that time. My neurologist ordered a MRI on my brain which I had today. I hope we will be able to find something to help me soon. I ache to return to my tatting and reading.

Oh, the thread is Yarnplayer's Rhubarb Pie in size 20. The pattern is from "The Tatter's Treasure Chest."

One Definition of a Good Friend

2009-07-22T09:47:00.001-05:00

I knew I had a good friend in Sharon Briggs, but I guess I didn't realize how good a friend she really was. To me, one definition of a good friend is someone who does things for you that are not expected. Many times, as in this case, Sharon had no responsibility to make these hearts for me and that makes them very special. They came from HER heart.

I had tatted my first original heart and mailed off in this exchange never to see it again. Nor did I ever see any hearts from the other participants except from J.B. who felt so bad she made me a second one. (Another good friend.) Things happen to the mail sometimes.

Thank you so much Sharon. Mostly for being my friend. Secondly for all you have taught me. Thirdly for caring enough to give so much of your time and effort to replace my hearts on your own. I will never forget your kindness and this unselfish gesture.

Aren't the hearts just lovely?

Oncidium Orchids "Dancing Lady"

2009-07-12T12:47:00.001-05:00

I've no new tatting to post as my current migraine has been with me for almost two weeks. We've become quite attached. I can't sit here but a minute, but wanted to share these pictures with you. I have had the large orchid for 3 or 4 years now. Can't remember which. The little one I split off the big one a year ago. This is her first time to bloom. I hope you enjoy looking at them and they brighten your day. They sure brighten mine.

5th Snowflake in Tropicana Series

2009-07-06T10:59:00.001-05:00

This is Jon's "Radiant" snowflake from her book, "Snowflakes Collection." I really like it in Lady Shuttle Maker's Tropicana hand dyed thread. I had not tatted this one before. I think because of the long picots. It was very simple, however. I just used my picot gauge and made them the size Jon suggested.

I am thinking I will need a revolving tree stand for my Rainbow Christmas Tree this year!

Sweetheart Snowflake

2009-06-27T19:50:00.001-05:00

I couldn't wait to make Jon's new snowflake and here it is. I tatted it in Flora variegated green and a dusty blue. I just pressed it so it is darker than it will be dry. Oh, size 20. I thought these colors would look good on my Rainbow Christmas Tree.

I will tat the other pieces of the set in pink and green or pink and raspberry.

If you haven't ordered by patterns, I hope you will. They are so pretty.

Floret in Tropicana

2009-06-25T15:18:00.002-05:00

The newest addition to the Tropicana snowflake family, is Floret from Jon's book. I am so glad that Lady Shuttle Maker made this thread. I am having a good time with it. Hand dyed thread just can't be beat. Floret took about 1 1/2 yards on each of two shuttles. You might need more. I wouldn't start without 2 yards on each shuttle. I need to go back and give you the amounts on the others. I'll try to do that soon.

I thought you might like to see a picture of the four different ones together. It gives me an idea how they are going to spread the color out on my Rainbow Christmas Tree!

Carousel Snowflake in Tropicana

2009-06-24T18:16:00.001-05:00

I hope you are not getting tired of looking at Tropicana Snowflakes! I thought I might see how many I can get from one skein of Lady Shuttle Maker's lovely hand dyed thread. This is size 20 same as the others. I loaded 5 yards onto each shuttle. Shuttle 1 ended up getting so close to empty that I did a shoelace trick and switched the shuttles. I ended up with barely 1 yard left on shuttle 1 and 1 1/2 on shuttle 2.

I am still tatting snowflakes from Jon's book, "Snowflake Collection." They are all so pretty.

Circle of Crowns Snowflake in Tropicana

2009-06-19T21:21:00.001-05:00

I already loved this pattern from Jon's book. Now I love it even more in this thread from Lady Shuttle Maker. My Christmas tree is going to be covered in rainbows!

Last Milky Way Snowflake (For right now!)

2009-06-16T20:21:00.002-05:00

This interesting thread is "Tropicana" in size 20 by Lady Shuttle Maker. I think it will make a nice addition to my Rainbow Christmas Tree. I am starting another of Jon's snowflakes, Circle of Crowns, in Tropicana right now. Tatting Milky Way is so easy that I can do them on auto pilot. But, it is time for some different ones.

On another note, if you haven't visited Ornaments.com, please do so when you have time. I hope the article that they posted under the blog tab will bring new interest to tatting. Thank you to Ramona for publishing the article.

Another Milky Way Snowflake

2009-06-15T09:27:00.001-05:00

I tatted this snowflake in size 20 Lizbeth thread, both the pink and the green. I wish I could tat with more delicate thread as I think it is so much prettier. My hands and eyes both say NOOOOOO! Maybe one day. Here is the link to Jon's site where you can order her snowflake book.

I think this would make a lovely edging if you needed one. I just don't want to invest the time right now. Too busy making ornaments as you all know I don't have nearly enough to fill up my Rainbow Christmas Tree!

Milky Way Snowflake in Lizbeth

2009-06-06T08:04:00.001-05:00

I really like the new Lizbeth thread. This is size 20 in color #147. It is very smooth and easy to tat and retrotat. It will never replace the beautiful hand dyed threads from our group, but it is nice.

This is, of course, Jon's Milky Way snowflake.

Earrings from Jon Yousoff

2009-06-05T19:55:00.001-05:00

Jon sent me these beautiful earrings and I just had to share them with you. I wish I had a better scan or picture of them. They are so much more beautiful in person. I am sure I will enjoy wearing them as soon as I get to go some place nice enough!

Here's the other exciting thing. A similar pattern will be in the new book. I'm sure some of you have already heard there is one in the works. Isn't she amazing?

Thank you my dear friend and sister, Jon.

First Snowflake of the Summer!

2009-06-05T08:20:00.002-05:00

Once again, Jon's Milky Way Snowflake from her book. I love this pattern and don't know how many I have tatted. This one is tatted in Tatskool's hand dyed thread "Coral Reef."

It's good to have something to post!

Latch Hook Pillow

2009-05-31T18:56:00.001-05:00

As you can see, it's not quite a pillow yet. I still have to turn the edges back and baste them down. Then find a pillow the right size to fasten it to. I just wanted to go ahead and show you how pretty it is - I think.

I am tatting some. I seem to do better if I am alternating rings and chains. To finish the mystery doily, I have to make long, tight chains - one after the other....... That means a very tight tension on my left hand and it hurts. I'll get it one day. I started a snowflake about an hour ago. I just couldn't wait any longer.

Hope you have all had a nice weekend.

Blogger problems and new website

2009-05-28T20:11:00.005-05:00

I have been "locked" out of my blog all week. Ugh! I only got in this time by going to the Leprechaun blog and then to my blog. Don't know what's wrong. Thought I better post while I can. I have actually finished something. Not tatting, but a latch hook pillow top that I work on when my hands won't let me tat. I will try to get a picture tomorrow and get it posted.

My husband has been working very hard on a new venture. He enjoys participating in several forums. Some for solving problems with things like vehicles or lawn mowers and some about the beaches we love so much. Now he has his own! Even though none of you live in the area, there are things there you might enjoy seeing. I think there are three beach cameras that you can look at and even control 1 or 2 or them. It has only been live for a couple of days so there aren't many posts yet. It will take a while. A couple of people have started putting pictures of the area with their posts. Please have a look. It would please Bill so much if some of you would register and comment. NO CHARGE. Gulf Shores Forum is the main link. I don't guess anyone will mind this advertisement since he isn't making any money! He hopes to have much more content soon. The forum for Navarre Beach took 6 months to make it to the top of the Google list so we have to be patient.

Thanks in advance if you have a look.

email problems

2009-05-22T14:14:00.001-05:00

To those of you who have emailed me in the last few days, we are having email problems and I haven't been able to respond or create new emails. Hope to rectify the problem soon.

Happy Memorial Day!

Gina's Monica Hahn Angel

2009-05-19T09:54:00.001-05:00

As I am sure you have seen on Gina's blog, her angel arrived safely so I can now post it. This was a fun exchange and I love the angel Gina made for me. I hope she will enjoy hers. I tatted her in size 20 Lizbeth. My first Lizbeth thread experience and I was very pleased. Enjoy Gina!

Monica Hahn angel for Gina

2009-05-14T08:16:00.002-05:00

Well, I finally finished Gina's angel last night. Sorry. No pictures until she receives it in the mail. I am getting better slowly. It is still very difficult to sit long enough to do anything much. I'm going to try and catch up on blogs. I have missed all of you very much!

Scallop Shell Heart from Tatting Chic

2009-05-03T16:22:00.003-05:00

Last, but certainly not least, I received this lovely heart from Tatting Chic. It is Scallop Shell Heart from Martha Ess. The thread is Pizzazz from Yarnplayer. And, she used one of my thread winders while tatting it!

This is the card that came with the heart.

It is one of those cute pop-out cards. Even the little Get Well Soon card at the top opens to reveal a sweet message from Tatting Chic. You are a very sweet, special friend Tatting Chic. Thank you for the lovely gift and for all of your prayers.

A lovely heart from J.B.

2009-05-03T16:07:00.001-05:00

My dear friend J.B. sent this lovely heart from "Tatting Hearts" by Teri Dusenbury. She and I were in a heart exchange last year and my package, (and Carol's) got lost. J.B. felt so bad that she tatted this for me TWICE! I really appreciate her thoughtfulness and the beautiful heart. The colors will be perfect in my bedroom.

Her sending it happily coincided with my return from the hospital. Thank you for your prayers and well wishes, J.B.

Monica Hahn angel from Gina

2009-05-03T09:59:00.001-05:00

This is the next beauty I found in my mail box when I got home from the hospital. Gina and I decided to do a Monica Hahn angel exchange. Monica's book can be purchased at Handy Hands. I've still not finished the one I am tatting for her. I love this one she made for me. It is Omega thread in size 20 with beads. I appreciate so much the work that went into it. Looks like my Rainbow Christmas Tree will now have a Rainbow of Angels as well!

I really enjoy these personal exchanges. It is so rewarding to make the other person happy and then to anticipate receiving your own surprise. Thanks again, Gina!

Get well card from Pamela

2009-05-02T10:01:00.001-05:00

I am finally better enough to sit at the computer for short periods of time. I hope all of you will forgive my tardiness in thanking you for your prayers and thoughts during my surgeries. There were NO CANCER CELLS this time and I am eternally grateful! Hopefully, I will be back to normal in the next 5 to 6 weeks. No - better than normal! In the meantime, I just have to rest and can't sit for very long.

Pamela a.k.a. Tatskool sent me this lovely card that she made. I wish you could see it in person. It is several layers thick so I had to make the picture with my camera instead of the scanner. The little bears are so precious and the tatting one is holding looks like tatted balloons!

She included this beautiful bookmark tatted in her Rainbow Bright. I love how the colors ended up the same on each edge. Wonder how she worked that out?

Thank you so much Pamela. I will be posting more as I can. It's good to be back!

Mandevilla X amoena "Alice du Pont"

2009-04-20T16:00:00.002-05:00

I have been wanting to paint for a long while now. I decided this was a good time. Mandevilla is one of my very favorite plants. I always have them blooming on my back deck in the summer and fall. I hope the bright colors bring a smile to your face! By the way, the blooms smell like Easter Peeps candy!

These other pictures are of my bedroom and the Rhubarb Pie tatting I have in there.

Tatting Chic

2009-04-16T10:24:00.003-05:00

If you have read Tatting Chic's blog today, you know that we had our first phone conversation yesterday evening. It was so nice to hear her voice and be able to share without waiting for return emails. She is just as sweet as I knew she would be and it seemed like we had always been friends. It is so great to have good friends with whom we can share our thoughts, loves, and even our troubles. It won't be our last conversation!

Tatting Chic is a very talented lady in a lot of ways. Not the least of which, is her ability to write both funny and inspiration blog posts. Please go visit her at the above link if you are not already a fan.

Easter goodies

2009-04-15T18:02:00.002-05:00

My Easter goodies were a little late, but that's okay. I ordered them late! Everyone kept raving so about the Lizbeth thread, that I had to order some. The colors are beautiful. I haven't tatted anything with it yet, but I will soon. I also wanted the Christmas Ornament Collection by JoAnn Stearns that Tatskool mentioned. It, and Christmas Angels and Other Tatting Patterns by Monica Hahn, are both full of beautiful patterns. I don't purchase many books, but lately I have three new ones, including Tea is for Tatting by Martha Ess. I have lots to do!

Oh, I really didn't WANT anymore shuttles, but I had to get to the free shipping cut off. Yeah, right! You believe that don't you? I love Lacis shuttles and pink seems to be my color of choice lately.
Thanks Handy Hands for the quick shipment!

Celtic Teapot by Martha Ess

2009-04-13T18:34:00.001-05:00

Martha's book, "Tea is for Tatting", is wonderful! I had so much fun tatting this Celtic Teapot. I learned new things and hope I got them right. I think there are a couple of places that could have been smoother, but I'm pleased with it. I'm not altogether pleased with my color choices, but I think it will work in my bedroom with all of the Rhubarb Pie. The light pink and green are Flora size 20. The darker rose, almost red, is a hand dyed solid from Marilee's Rhubarb Pie.

If you haven't ordered the book, I hope that you will have the opportunity to.

The Renee Award

2009-04-10T19:46:00.003-05:00

Thank you for this lovely award, Tatting Chic. I love it!

Here's what Bella has to say about why she created this award:

"This one is meaningful to me in three profound ways. Firstly, it was created in honor of Renee, one human being who has made such a difference in the lives of many just by being. Her honestly, wit, intelligence, and grit are a tremendous source of inspiration. She can elicit raucous laughter and guffaws in her banter, and then turn right around and offer the most heartfelt, gentle words of wisdom and emotional support. She is a spreader of love, simple and true. And her love is infectious.

Secondly, this award was created in collaboration with one of my best friends, Ces. She is, in Renee's own words, truly original. She is an incredible artist, both in pen and ink and paint. She is fiery passion with a gentle hand. She is laughter, fun, joy, intellectual stimulation, a sister. The concept and design of the award belong to Ces.

Thirdly, this is a brand new award, and I have the pleasure and honor of spreading the seed, watching it grow. I hope it finds its way to those who are like Renee: the acorn, a small package becoming a tall and sturdy oak giving more acorns, becoming tall and sturdy oaks, giving acorns..."

What a Beautiful World

2009-04-07T13:43:00.002-05:00

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL WORLD

Oh, what a beautiful world today.
The sky is blue with clouds puffy gray.
The grass is greener with each passing morn.
Nature is busy being reborn.

The cherry trees all pink and white seem to
shine with God’s heavenly light.
Azaleas in every color are lacey and bright and
make me ache to paint them just right.

The Dogwoods are blooming as if to say,
“We know that Easter is on its way.
We usually bloom too early but waited this year.
We wanted to be sure the message was clear.
He came to die to save you from sin.
To wash away your transgressions and leave
you cleansed.”

Their blooms bear the mark of our Savior’s pain
to remind us all that for us He came.

He knew He had but a short time to stay
as His mission was planned to take Him away.
He tried to teach us as much as He could, how
to be Christ like, honest and good.

All we can do is strive each day to follow His
example and never forget to pray.
We make mistakes, each and every one, but
God’s work with us is never done.

He’ll not forsake us and always speaks true.
We just have to trust Him to bring us through.
May you each find peace in this blessed spring
and all the joy that your faith can bring.

Laura Blanton
© April 7, 2009

To all of my Christian friends, a very Happy Easter and
the peace of Christ.
To the rest of my friends, may you find joy and laughter
during this glorious Spring season.

Martha's teapot surprise!

2009-04-01T18:49:00.001-05:00

Look what I received in the mail from our lovely Martha Ess. One of her teapots. The one I named! English Country Garden! It was in the sweetest note wishing me well with my operations that are approaching. A prayer in each stitch! For what more could I ask?

Martha's work is as near perfect as I have ever seen. I am really overwhelmed with this lovely gift. I will have to get it framed and take it to the hospital with me. I'm sure it will be the only teapot I'll see while I'm there!

I hope you have all noticed that the book is ready to be ordered. I ordered mine this morning.

Thank you again, Martha. You are truly a dear.

Mystery Doily half way through stage one!

2009-03-28T17:04:00.001-05:00

Half way through stage one of the mystery doily! I really, really like it but the fingers of my left hand sure are stiff and sore. I think it will look really nice after it is finished and blocked.

This is how much thread I had left from a 50 yard skein of size 20 in Rhubarb Crisp hand dyed thread by Yarnplayer. One tiny piece, one a little longer and one about 1 1/4 yards. I have four more motifs to tat so I'm hoping to finish this stage of the doily with only 2 skeins used. The second part of the doily is still a mystery to everyone except Steph, unless some of you just aren't saying!

This is where we are!

2009-03-24T10:51:00.001-05:00

Maybe all this beautiful, white sand and the salt air will make me well! That's what Bill always tells me. The salt air will fix that!

Nothing to say really. Just wanted to show you a few pictures. We have had lovely weather but that is supposed to change before the day is over and be rainy and stormy the rest of the week. Oh well. Guess I'll be forced to tat!

Motif 2 of Mystery Doily Plus Clovers

2009-03-23T06:13:00.002-05:00

Okay, still not blocked and this is the camera instead of the scanner. I hope you can still see how pretty this is going to be. It's a bit slower going than I thought. Some of the directions are a bit sketchy, for me anyway. And, it is difficult to keep up with the direction of the tatting.

Hopefully more tomorrow or later today.

Rest and Rejuvenate

2009-03-22T05:42:00.003-05:00

I've not disappeared - well not entirely! We are on vacation, and boy did we both need it. I've been so sick for so long that all I want to do is sleep right now. I get up early, make coffee and toast. Enjoy said coffee and toast and then take a nap! How bad is that? Still can't talk even a little. My voice has completely left me. I'm hoping if I can be quiet long enough, it will decide to come back home. I really need it! Most people don't speak sign language.

We are going to take things easy and just do what we want to and rest. I've got to get ready for two simultaneous surgeries and need to build up my strength. Nothing life threatening, (I hope), just things that have to be done. I do feel all of your prayers. I have calmed down and am enjoying things more than I thought I would be able to. We spent a little time at a "Blues and Barbeque" festival yesterday. It was a mild, sunny day. Not too many people and very good food. We enjoyed the music, but it was loud so we didn't stay very long. Today, we are having lunch with three friends, and dinner with two other friends. (Better skip that toast this morning.)

I have one more motif finished on the doily and one other part finished. I'm really enjoying tatting this doily. I'll make a picture today and post it. It is going to be so pretty!

I hope you are all well and enjoying the start of Spring.

Victorian Heart in hand dyed thread

2009-03-19T08:19:00.001-05:00

I have been asked to donate one of my hearts to The American Cancer Society by Donna at Stitching For A Cure. They are making ornaments for different types of cancer. They will be on a tree that I think will be auctioned off at Christmas.

I tatted this one in Yarnplayer's hand dyed pink from her Peace colorway. I love the suttle color differences that come with hand dyed thread, even if it is a solid color. I don't know if they show up here or not. I hope so. Now I just have to decide which one to send them.

1st motif of mystery doily

2009-03-18T09:22:00.001-05:00

This is my new project. I needed something to keep my mind occupied and I found it! It's not my design and some of you may recognize it. Thought we might make a little guessing game out of it.

It tatted up real fast but hasn't been blocked yet. I'd like to wait until they are joined to do that, so no judgement on how even or uneven it is.

This is my favorite thread from Yarnplayer, as most of you know. Rhubarb Pie in size 20.

St. Patrick's Day 2009

2009-03-17T08:48:00.001-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Isaac, Oisin and Laura! There are more pictures on the Leprechaun page if you want to see them.

Surgeon's visit this afternoon

2009-03-16T17:51:00.003-05:00

Thankfully, the surgeon doesn't seem to be near as worried about this problem as the radiologist. He doesn't want to do anything radical at this time. He's going to remove it and biopsy it and then we will go from there. I didn't want to go through this again, but he insisted. He says we can get with the other surgeon and try to get both surgeries done at the same time. That would be great.

I will keep you posted. Thank you so much for all of the good thoughts and prayers. Maybe that is why it's not so bad!

Sharon's Suncatcher

2009-03-15T18:11:00.001-05:00

I printed this pattern months ago and just now made time to tat it. It was designed by Sharon Briggs and she has shared the pattern on her blog.

The thread is size 20 Flora in lavendar and the beads are royal blue. Don't ask! Next time I tat it, I will use nice, glass beads as the design deserves it. I loaded 7 yards of thread on each shuttle and almost emptied both of them.

This is a fun, easy design that you can easily remember and not have to refer to the diagram.

Thank you Sharon!

Isaac's 3rd birthday party 2-28-09

2009-03-13T17:56:00.000-05:00

Sorry to be so far behind sharing pictures from the birthday party. Unfortunately, Isaac and I have both been sick since the party. As you can tell, it wasn't bothering him that day! He had a wonderful time at his Iron Man party and I think all of his friends and family did as well.

Blog Queen Award from Lady Shuttle Maker

2009-03-13T17:42:00.002-05:00

The "Blog Queen" award recognizes female bloggers who are:

1. SEASONED; She has blogged for at least one year.

2. PROLIFIC; She writes several posts each month.

3. FUNNY; She make us smile with her witty humor.

4. ADDICTIVE; She keeps us coming back for more.

You may accept this award or not.
There are no rules to follow.
You may pass it on as you please.
This is just to let you know that you make my day!

I'm going to be like Pamela (Tatskool). There are just to many people that I love and most of you have already received the award. Just know that ALL of you make my day!

Dear Friends, Loved Ones and "Adopted Children"

2009-03-13T12:55:00.002-05:00

Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I go back to the surgeon this coming Monday afternoon. My mammogram and ultrasound show changes since December. This is the same site as the lumpectomy from last May. The radiologist recommends that the new problem be removed. Bill will be able to go with me and help make the best decisions.

Thanks in advance for all of the love you have shown to me and will show.

I'm Alive - (I Think!)

2009-03-13T07:32:00.001-05:00

I actually finished Iris' TIAS several days ago. I just haven't had the strength to press, scan and post it. I really enjoyed this Iris and hope to start over and make a doily in different thread. Don't have enough of these two.

These earrings were designed by Martha Ess, I think this past Halloween. I made them for a friend, but might redo them. I think I got them too "smiley." Thank you for the delightful pattern Martha.

I haven't been at all well but I'm some better. Just trying to do what I can when I can.

Iris' TIAS Part Four

2009-03-01T18:46:00.001-06:00

I hope all of you are enjoying tatting this TIAS as much as I am. I don't CARE what it is - it is beautiful! In fact, I've been inspired to get Iris' books out that I proud to own and find a new project.

I'm leaving the green ends where I made a mistake and had to cut and join new thread in hopes that green will touch it and I can hide them!

March 1, 2009 snowstorm

2009-03-01T10:48:00.003-06:00

Well, for Birmingham, AL it is a snowstorm! This is the 1st measurable snow we have had in ten years. Isaac's mom says he had a great time. I look forward to those pictures. It is still snowing and getting deeper. I think we are a little over 4" right now. You will notice in about the last 10 pictures, the snow was falling very thickly. It looked like a "white out."

I was trying to put a link to the pictures. It didn't work. Be back later.

Iris' TIAS Day Three

2009-02-26T11:37:00.001-06:00

No confirmation from Iris yet as to whether I have this right. I hope so. Still no idea, but I'm having fun tatting it and am excited to see what it is going to be.

Iris' TIAS Part 2

2009-02-22T19:44:00.001-06:00

I hope I still have this right. I think it is so pretty and I'm having fun tatting it. It is nice to be led step by step instead of getting overwhelmed by a large pattern that might discourage me. Thanks Iris!

Iris' TIAS steps 1 - 12

2009-02-20T07:57:00.001-06:00

This is going to be fun! I hope I have it right so far. I had tatted the last clover in the dark color and had to redo that, but no problem. I'm using Flora size 20.

Thank you Iris for doing this for us. I, for one, always enjoy them.

Victorian Hearts

2009-02-17T11:05:00.001-06:00

I had intended to finish tatting this little, red heart and post it as a Valentine's wish. Obviously, I didn't make it. Here it is anyway along with a picture of the two I tatted last year. Last year's are both in size 20. The red is size 80 on the ball thread and size 20 on the shuttle thread. I'm not sure if I am happy with it yet. I wanted a little variation in the color, which I got. I also thought the bigger ring in the middle would take up some of the negative space. I think I'm okay with that. I believe I might use the larger ring at the bottom to hold a tassel for a bookmark. This one measure 1 1/4" across and 1 1/2" top to bottom. The others are about 2" both ways.

Presents from South Korea

2009-02-13T07:37:00.001-06:00

Don't you just love it when the letter carrier has a package for you? Sure you do! I received these lovely gifts from Lady Shuttle Maker, aka Sherry Pence. They have been here for a few days, but I wanted to wait and post them when it was almost time for her to be back from vacation.

The eye glass case is very beautiful and elegant. It feels like silk. The beads were in the little yellow case which is just the right size for a shuttle. I love the Jungle Fever hand dyed thread. I have no idea what the interesting postcard says on the front of course. On the back she is thinking me for my contribution to 4 o'clock rock and encouragement in her life. I feel I get much more encouragement than I give.

Thank you dear Sherry. I hope you had a wonderful vacation and a very special Valentine's Day tomorrow!

Eternal Rose Cross #2

2009-02-13T07:28:00.001-06:00

I found this size 10 in orange and it makes a huge difference. Orange happens to be the favorite color of a friend. Guess what she is getting for her birthday?

I really need to order some variegated size 10. I think the roses would be much prettier and real looking.

Thanks again Yarnplayer for the lovely pattern.

Eternal Rose Cross by Yarnplayer

2009-02-10T20:56:00.001-06:00

This is a simple,lovely pattern and a joy to tat. Thank you so much Yarnplayer for sharing it with us. I didn't have any pretty size 10 thread. The pink is a size 3 cotton and too big, but I still think it is pretty. The white is size 20 Flora. If I can get some nice size 10 for the roses, I'm thinking these would make great gifts.

Looking to the Future

2009-02-05T10:21:00.004-06:00

Looking to the future - the future of the arts with which we have been gifted and the tools and fruits thereof. How does that sound?

This is something I have been wanting to talk about for some time. It is not meant to be at all maudlin. In fact, quite the opposite. It is about planning for future generations to take up our arts and see them preserved and perfected as we ourselves have tried to do. Since this is a tatting blog, we all know that closest to my heart is my tatting. I do love to do other things and have tools, supplies and finished pieces to be preserved in those arts as well. When I go to my tatting cabinet and pull out drawers, I can almost see each of my grandmothers with shuttles in hands and lace flying out from their fingers. It pretty much always looked like a blur to me. I have those shuttles. I see crochet hooks and knitting needles making clothing and blankets. I have those hooks and needles. It just so happened that out of nine granchildren on each side, I was the one who was interested in these particluar things. Some of my cousins have other interests and do quite well with them.

All of this to say, someone needs to be appointed as guardians of these things for the future. Most of us, no matter how humble we consider our means, have wills or some form of written instructions as to the disposition of our worldly goods when we no longer need them. Children are interested in assets and personal possessions for the most part. I have tried to cover those things. Those of you with minor children probably have guardianship papers naming who you want to raise your children in your place if necessary. My husband and I both have "Living Wills" and "Durable Power of Attorney, including medical decisions. I have started sharing lots of heirlooms with the grandchildren of my generation that I know will love them most and see that the next recipient knows the value and history of that particular piece. One thing that bothers me is that I have no one interested in learning what I know or taking it any further than it will be when I am gone. I'm sure I can not be alone in this. It could be that our girls and my brother's daughter will one day slow down enough to realize they want to learn, but I'm not looking for that to happen. They are different people and have their own lives and interests. That is not for me to control or make them feel guilty.

What I have been talking to my husband about is naming at least two of my tatting friends to be contacted about taking my tatting things and seeing them divided up where they will do the most good. That could be to help new tatters with supplies like we helped Sherry with her "Four O'Clock Rock" class. Some people might want a special shuttle to keep for their own because my dad made it or Lady Shuttle Maker made it. I don't want someone to uncover a chest of tatting one day that no one remembers to whom it belonged or what it was for. None of us want that. I want to think of my snowflakes hanging on someone's tree for many years to come and recognizing the love that went into them. (Nor would it hurt my feelings if a piece of my lace ended up in a museum.)

I recently heard someone say that all of us want to be remembered. I hope my children and their children will remember me for lots of things, mostly the love that I feel for them. Also I hope I am setting a good example for them to know what it is to lead a life of good morals and sharing what we have with others. After that, I hope someone will one day hold my shuttles in hand and say, "I remember when...."

Clover Drop Heart in "Hydrangea" HDT

2009-02-03T08:09:00.002-06:00

I finally managed to get a little tatting done. Between arthritis and sinusitis, I've not been very productive. This design is by Nancy Tracy of Be-stitched copyright 2005. The thread is Lady Shuttle Maker's hand dyed thread named "Hydrangea." The thread is size 20 and the heart is about 2 1/4" wide. Happy February everyone!

Leprechaun Tales

2009-01-24T17:14:00.002-06:00

Any of you who are interested need to visit the Leprechaun blog. We have a new family member named Conor. Also, Oisin had a new adventure at the grocery store Wednesday and wants to tell you about it.

Pansy Angel #3 by Blossoms & Blessings

2009-01-21T16:42:00.001-06:00

I took a break from this angel to tat the dragon. Now I've finished the angel and I really like her in this thread. It is Lady Shuttle Maker's hand dyed thread "Fuchsia" in size 20. I have almost depleted my stash of this color. Guess that means I like it!

Clyde's says things are better in three's. Now I've done three!

Speaking of Clyde, we had a lovely conversation last night. I discovered that my VOIP phone plan allows me to call Canada for free! His voice was exactly as I had expected and I felt as if I've always talked to him. Sometimes good friends sure do get scattered far away from each other.

Karey Solomon's Dragonet

2009-01-20T13:51:00.002-06:00

Here is my very feeble attempt to tat Karey Solomon's Dragonet. I love Karey's dragons, but they don't seem to love me. I've had this book for some time and finally decided I must brave at least one of the dragons. I seem to have made the belly to small and the claws are too close in and not defined sufficiently for me. If any of you have any suggestions or insight to these patterns, please let me know. I think my brain cells found out where Jane's were vacationing and have joined them there! If they were present before I started this project, they have certainly deserted me now.

Dragonet is tatted in size 20 Flora with size 11 purple beads.

Cyber Counter

2009-01-11T09:46:00.002-06:00

Well, was I shocked yesterday when I saw that my counter said 19? Yes! It should have said 55,019. Has anyone else had their's drop off like that?

No tatting again today. I have been in bed with my back most of the last 3 days. Might have to try tatting lying down.

Blossoms & Blessings Angel in Coral Reef

2009-01-06T20:45:00.001-06:00

I see lots of these angels in my future. I love this design. If you need to tat a quick gift for a sick or burdened friend, this is perfect. Thanks again to Blossoms and Blessings Designs.

The thread is size 20 hand dyed thread named "Coral Reef" by Tatskool. I don't know if you can tell in the picture, but I actually used three different threads from the "Coral Reef" colorway in this angel. The rings in the bottom on the skirt are a lighter blue than the other blue and then the variegated of course.

Experiment and have fun! The link to the pattern is in the previous post.

Pansey Angel in Hand Dyed Thread

2009-01-04T15:29:00.002-06:00

Thanks to Blossoms and Blessings Designs for sharing this pattern. This little angel was a joy to tat. I've had the pattern printed and waiting for a couple of months. Yesterday, I decided it was time to tat it. It is quick and the pattern is very easy to follow. You only have to end once - between the wings and the skirt.

I used Lady Shuttle Maker's hand dyed thread "Summer Bouquet", size 20 and the angel is about 4" tall. The pattern can be found here.

Lovely card and gifts from Clyde

2009-01-03T13:07:00.002-06:00

Clyde sent me this beautiful Hawaiian Christmas card which arrived today. It is very intricately cut in white with a brown paper behind it. So pretty I think I will have to frame it. The thread is Marilee's hand dyed red from Tourmaline in size 80. The Celtic snowflake is tatted in size 50 Apple Blossom. The little copper darts are for marking pages. I have never seen them before, but they will be put to good use.

Thank you so much Clyde for your very thoughtful, and generous, gift to me. Happy New Year!

Coral Reef Doily Finished!

2008-12-31T17:28:00.001-06:00

My grandmother always said it was bad luck to take old work, among other things, into the new year. In that spirit, I was determined to finish this doily and get it posted today. It needs a good blocking, but a light pressing will have to do for now.

This is Pamela's Coral Reef thread, of course. I had a set of the solids to mix with it. I was very fortunate that she had saved a skein of the batch I bought. I ran out of the variegated! Now I know what some of you felt like in this situation.

Wishing you and yours a safe and prosperous New Year!

Laura, Bill, Isaac and Oisin

It's A Leprechaun's Life

2008-12-27T08:51:00.002-06:00

Pamela, Fergal, Oisin and I decided the Leprechauns needed a blog of their own. They all have so much to say. This way those of you who are interested, which has to be everyone, wink wink, can go there to follow their persuits. Of course, there will be tatting and hand dyed thread involved. We hope you will visit often!

Jon's Quantiesque Snowflake #3

2008-12-25T08:18:00.002-06:00

This one counts as this year since I finished tatting it last night and I'm getting it posted on Christmas day - right? I just love this pattern and tatting it in Sherry's Old St. Nick and Country Christmas hand dyed threads was a true pleasure.

I will now go put snowflake #74 on the Rainbow Christmas Tree.

Merry Christmas to all!

Quantiesque #2

2008-12-22T17:21:00.004-06:00

I liked the way Heather used her own HDT called Many Colors with white to tat one of her snowflakes, so I did it with this thread. Trouble is, I don't know what the thread is except size 20. I thought it was Sherry's Grapefruit until I started tatting with it and realized it I was wrong. If you dyed this thread, please forgive me and let me know so I can give you credit. It kind of looks like a store bought variegated, but I just don't know!

By the way, I want to thank my friend >Jane for a wonderful favor. She has given me the rank of "stark staring bonkers." Now I can forget all kind of things and not have to worry about it! Come to think of it I can proabaly get away with all sorts of mischief too. Thanks Jane! No, really.

Quantiesque #3 halfway done in Sherry's Old Saint Nick and Country Christmas. Thank you again Jon for this pattern. I love it.

Quantiesque Snowflake #1

2008-12-18T20:43:00.001-06:00

Yes, there will be more of these. Probably lots more. It is Jon's Quantiesque Snowflake that she so sweetly shared with us as a gift. Thank you so much Jon. I love it and can't wait to see how many color combinations I can find. The thread is Pamela's Coral Reef with the solid blue to match for round 2. Both are size 20.

Way to go Jon and Pamela!

Oh, this is snowflake #72 on my tree.

Oisin the Exchange Student

2008-12-16T13:15:00.004-06:00

Oisin went to class with his new dad, the college instructor today. He had two choices for subjects - Economics and Personal Finances. He chose wisely - Personal Finance! He is posing with his fellow classmates in this picture. They were a little hesitant at first. Oisin soon won them over with his Leprechaun charm!

Here he is with Dad after his exam has been graded. Yippee! An A+ on his first exam!

A close up with his test. He is so pleased with himself.

Another picture with Dad in his office. I had my concerns about these two bonding, but I am sure now that my fears were unfounded!

Here he is in front of Dad's computer screen. He wants all of you to see where is going to be taking classes now. He is used to a big university, but this is a interesting change for him.

One last picture in Dad's office. I hope you all have enjoyed this little glimpse into Oisin's new world. He is excited to hear comments about what you think!
Tomorrow he will stay home and tat with Mom. She has some new HDT's to unwind from skeins and he is sure to be a big help.

New Tackle Box for Laura!

2008-12-14T16:09:00.001-06:00

Most people would wonder why in the world does Laura need a tackle box as she never goes fishing. Those of you in my tatting world know exactly why! I saw this last weekend in our brand new Bass Pro Shop very reasonably priced. I waited a week to see if I really wanted it and, obviously, I did. The four trays can stand on end of on their bottoms. They are divided long ways and have partitions to set more dividers as needed. I know you can buy boxes like this several places, but not four of them together in a nice bag like this one. It has a shoulder strap and compartments on each end as well.

This will be my "mobile tatting cabinet." Now I get to see how much stuff I can fit in there.

If you don't have a Bass Pro Shop, I bet you could find one on line!

Rainbow Christmas Tree 2008

2008-12-12T19:31:00.002-06:00

I couldn't wait until tomorrow. I wish there was some way I could get pictures from every angle. I also wish I could make it look as amazing in pictures as it does in my den. No brag. Just fact!

By the way, there are 71 snowflakes on this tree, 61 of them tatted by me. Just in case you were wondering.

Oh, the reason there is no tree skirt can be explained by the little boy who eats apples by himself!