Category: Uncategorized

If yarn is a trend then I am definitely a trend setter. At least if having tons of yarn around waiting to be knit into blankets or scarves is part of the trend. On my recent trip out west I couldn’t resist buying just a few more skeins of yarn while M’s back was turned. Some will be felted, some will finish a scarf in progress, some will be a brand new scarf. I am gearing up towards dying some of my natural colored wool yarn and maybe knitting a blanket. I especially like the honeycomb pattern of this one. Anyone know what stitch this is? Are you wondering why I only knit scarves and blankets? No gauge swatch needed.

Gone are the days of huge suitcases weighing 5 tons. Gone are the days of checked bags. Now when I travel I want to carry everything on so I don’t have to wait for it once I get where I am going and I don’t have to pay extra. I currently have a bag which mostly fits in the overhead compartment, it doesn’t fit wheels first so it has to go sideways and that means it takes up extra room. Honestly, there is nothing about this bag that I love so when I saw the Checkpoint by Timbuk2 over at notcot, I wanted to see more. Lots of exterior pockets, lots of interior pockets, easy access pockets to help me get through security, and fabulous colors which make it stand out. I love it! The price tag is a little hefty at $250, but this could be the bag I carry from now on so why not spend a little more. So now the hard part… brown and red, or green?

While trying to figure out what I am going to make for Christmas presents this year I ran across this adorable pig pattern from Martha Stewart. I am a sucker for a stuffed pig and this one looks like it is begging to be made from an old sweater or maybe some felt scraps. via

I hope you have a wonderful day filled with family, friends and turkey. If you are travelling be safe. If you are cooking, I hope it all turns out well. Here is my twist on cranberries. Enjoy!

• 1 12 oz bag cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup apple cider
• ground ginger to taste (I add a dash or two to keep things interesting)

Throw everything in a pot together and bring to a boil stirring a few times along the way. Once the berries start to pop you are done. Serve chilled.

FYI, the cider adds some sweet to this recipe, but not as much as the missing 1/2 cup sugar. If you like sweet cranberries instead of tart add another 1/4 sugar.

What is it about the holidays? I mean seriously, every year I am sick on either Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Years. Some years I have been sick on all three! Monday a cold sideswiped me from out of nowhere. Ick. I should be feeling ok for Turkey day, but I am going to sound raspy which some people think is sexy, I just think is hurty. The upside of this particular year is that I finally made the leap and got raw honey. Where have you been all my life?! My doc, an acupuncturist and MD, suggested a few spoonfuls to help with my cough. No chaser. I haven’t worked up to a few spoonfuls yet, but one seems to help my poor throat when it is feeling especially bad. I have been using it in my tea as well for good measure. Tonight I think I will try a remedy my sister swears by. Hot water, raw honey, lemon and lime.

This little felt guy keeps your keys company. Tee hee. I love it!

This bunny bowling set is way too cute. I am not a sewer but I have a feeling this could be a knit item…

As I was appreciating the beautiful pottery pieces created by the very talented Whitney Smith, I missed an opportunity to get in on a drawing for one of her adorble bird bowls by 7 minutes. If only I hadn’t been sucked in by the pretty pictures it is possible I could own a piece. Sigh.

Many of us have at least started to make the switch from throwaway plastic bags to reusable bags (I especially like the carry case for this one.) Although I have gotten a lot better about remember to always have a bag with me I still have what seems like a never-ending supply of those plastic bags overflowing in my kitchen. There are only so many trashcans in my house in need of a liner. This year some of them will become a surprisingly beautiful topper to my homemade gifts. Thanks for the great tutorial, Ez! via

Like it or not, the holiday time is upon us. Tis the time to make gifts. This year in addition to a charitable donation my loved ones can expect a handmade something from me. What is that going to be? I have no idea. I am running out of time to decide though. Luckily there are many many links to help me figure something out. And if I am on your list this year, consider a donation to your favorite charity or making me a little something.