Where have you been?

I've been a bad blogger.  I have been absent for many months.  No, I didn't go into hibernation although with the winter we had it would have been nice. We had many days where we were -40C with the windchill.  In mid-October, I made a career change.  I had been working as a supervisor for a therapy program.  There were still parts of my job that I loved, but there were also many things that were out of my control making the job difficult for me.  It was affecting me in ways that were not healthy and impacting my ability to do the job I needed.  So I made a change.  Between then and now, we also did a major bathroom renovation, I attended a few shows and completed a number of custom orders.  Needless to say, blogging fell off the radar.

Baby Beard hat - custom order

Me modelling the honeycomb scarf - custom orders

Teacher gifts for my daughter's teachers

The course revision project is complete, courses are winding down soon, and for the first time in months I picked up knitting needles the other day (insert big smiling Laura here).

Swatching for a new project

I'm using sock yarn which I don't typically knit with.  This is Scachenmayr Regia Jeans Style Color that I picked up at Len's Mill.  I'm knitting a lacy dress for a one-year-old and liked this as I felt it would be modern yet still cute for an infant.  The pattern is the Lizzy Dress by Taiga Hilliard Designs.  You can find it on Craftsy or Ravlery.  I hope it turns out.  I must admit that I have started the first 6 rows and am already feeling like I have messed up something somewhere.



I don't quite know what the rest of spring and summer will hold yet.  I am hoping for some online courses to teach.  I'm also really looking forward to time to garden, get back to running, and create!  Last year character hats were a big seller.  This summer will be spent planning for the fall and winter show season and figuring out what I want to make for those shows.

Happy Easter weekend to all!
Laura

Creativ Festival

Mmmmm.  Yarny fibery goodness.

Last year I became aware of the Creativ Festival.  This is a show meant for crafters and is a great place to check out crafting materials for sewing, quilting, beading, needlework and knit and crochet.   

I saw it online last year but wasn't sure whether it would be worth my time to travel into Toronto and attend the show.  It seemed there was some yarn involved but could primarily be sewing and quilting.  Sewing is something I also enjoy, but not enough to make going to the show worthwhile.  I also didn't have anyone to go with (insert sad Laura).  I am not against going to these types of shows alone.  Let's face it, it's more fun to go with someone.

Lovin' the fabric!

This year it worked out perfectly.  My friend and fellow crafter Aimee was available to go to the show.  She sews up headbands, belts and other cool accessories.  In the end I was very glad I went.  While we didn't take part in any of the classes or talks, we did enjoy walking through the exhibits checking out ideas and materials.  Aimee picked up a selection of cool fabrics.  While I was primarily out for the yarn, I also found some fabric for myself.  This little piece of yumminess will become an overlay for my table at craft shows.

There were a few booths selling the uber bulky weight yarn I had first come across on Pinterest.  There was Alpaca and Merino wool available.  Unfortunately, it will still way out of my budget.  As I wiped the drool away (and the tears) I left the yarn behind.  Check out this super comfy looking blanket made from this yarn.  Maybe someday it will be mine.

Super awesome blanket.  I wish we had
touch-o-vision so you could feel how soft it was!

Sorry dear wool - you can't come home with me today (sniff)

I also found some creative and unusual uses for yarn.

Check out this creation by the Crochet Crowd

Yarn bombed bike!

While I was worried about how many choices of yarn there would be, I didn't need to be.  There were all kinds of yarns available.  It ranged from the very expensive yarn I just mentioned above to acrylic yarns that were more reasonably priced.  

Love the colours! This is not your acrylic yarn :)

Some yarn bling

When I attend shows like this, I'm usually looking for something that I wouldn't normally buy or find in my typical yarn shopping venues.  It is like a treat for me.  I managed to find a few that I picked up.  I don't have any particular projects planned but am thinking a hat, scarf, shawl.  They could all work.  

Ta Da!  My new yarn for the stash!  Again, I wish you could feel the softness.

I didn't attend the KW knitter show this year as I was volunteering at an early morning race and my parents were then in town.  This is another great place to find new and amazing yarn.  I was so happy to be able to attend the show today.  It was totally worth it and I would suggest this show to any person who enjoys crafting with any kind of fiber.

The show is on all weekend so if you're interested in going, follow the link at the top and check out the show.  

Cheers!

Laura

Thoughts on yesterday's events in Ottawa

Yesterday was indeed a shocking day for Canada.  A young solider standing guard at the War Memorial was shot from a very close distance.  This was followed by shots ringing out in the halls of Parliament only a few minutes later.  Watching the video shot in the centre block and hearing the shots ring through the halls was eerie.  Seeing photos of the solider on the ground being given CPR takes a part of your heart and just rings it.  In the end, the shooter was shot himself by the Sargeant at Arms in Parliament but the situation continues to hit home for me.

Touching editorial cartoon posted in The Herald depicting the soliders that went before him assisting Cpl. Nathan Cirillo (http://thechronicleherald.ca/editorial-cartoon/2014-10-23-editorial-cartoon)

I have heard "In Canada, we aren't used to this" and I would say we aren't.  In my opinion, no one should be 'used to' that kind of act and in the end I don't think anyone is.  I'm a social media nut and my Twitter and Facebook were plastered with thoughts, photos, etc. related to this incident.  There were photos and stories that brought sadness and shock (like those mentioned above or the photo of Cpl. Nathan Frank Cirrilo who was the solider shot) shortly followed by photos of solidarity and strength for Canada.  

Cpl. Nathan Cirillo - More than just a solider.

Now as Canadians, as a world, we are left with "What do we do?"  For me, it is a question of balancing the need/want to acknowledge what happened but also not allow this to change me or my behaviour so much that I begin to change how I live.  I feel that the people who do these acts are aiming for that - us to change our lives and live differently.  I feel that knowing they have had that impact on the lives of people in the country is what gives these extremists power.  

I also keep in mind a part of a psychology lecture I taught just a week ago on heuristics.  Heuristics are mental short cuts we use in making decisions and one of them is the the availability heuristic which says that how easily we can think of an event impacts our perception of how likely it is for that type of event to happen.  For this situation, it means that because this has happened and received so much attention, we are likely to 'assume' that these events are quite likely to happen.  It isn't the most accurate way to make decisions but it is what we have a tendency towards and I think, for me, knowing this helps.  It helps me keep in mind that as horrific as this event was, the likelihood of it happening again, while not impossible, is quite unlikely.  For myself, I need this information to help focus on moving forward and focus on all the good in this world.

These are my own thoughts and others can certainly feel differently.  From here, I will certainly think of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, his family and friends.  My thoughts are with all those who serve us (military, police, and other first responders).  And I will focus on all the good in the world.  There are so many people doing such fantastic things each and every day.  Unfortunately, even when they do get media time it is usually quite quick in relation to events such as this.  I need to keep this in mind.  

I am impressed by the response of people around the world to this event.  Canadians of course are coming together and showing support by flying flags half mast in their communities, posting photos of remembrance for Nathan Cirillo, creating hastags such as #Canadastrong, and photos meant to help us move forward.  One act I heard about last night especially stands out in my mind.  At the Pittsburgh Penguins home game, they sang the Canadian national anthem.  There were two US teams playing so this was done to show support for Canada only.  Very classy if you ask me.  To see this sign of solidarity, you can find the story here. 

Col. Chris Hadfield posted something on his Facebook page yesterday that really reasonated with me.

Well said Col. Hadfield!  Let's all pay tribute to those who keep us safe, those who were affected yesterday, and continue to be the Canada that makes us who we are.  Toques, poutine, friendliness, and support (especially for those closer to the situation).  Do what you need to pay tribute.  Take the time that you need to process all this.  And do what you need to move past it.  

Apple. Butter. Cheese.

I've awoken from my slumber. At least that is how it feels.  After a few weeks of holding down two jobs, completing renos, and keeping a family running I now have less on my plate.  Yippee!  More time for creating!

A couple of weeks ago, I was invited by a friend of mine to join her at a local festival.  I'm almost embarrassed to say that despite living in the area for 10+ years I have never been to the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese festival.  This year was my first and I got to be a vendor!  I still didn't have as much product as I would have liked (Do you ever?) but managed a fairly good display.  By the time I took this photo, the Olaf hat had already sold.

Display including new screen

Despite being held on the last Saturday of September it was hot.  The temperature hit 30 degrees celsius and it was super sunny.  Most craft vendors were in the arena but we were outdoors which was nice actually.  No matter where you went, it was hot.  It was nice to be out in the sun enjoying all those who were visiting the festival.

If you read my post about the show in Elmira, you'll know that I also had wanted to improve my display for the next show.  Thanks to some time on Pinterest, I was able to do so.  Thanks Pinterest!  I built myself a screen to hang items on (instructions to come in later post), sewed a green chevron accent table cloth, and made use of my vintage suitcases. Due to limited space, I pushed the screen into the corner behind the table.  All in all, I'm happy with the look.  I'd love to hear what you think.  

What an amazing day!  I realized that doing this craft shows is really what I love to do.  It doesn't feel like work.  I really enjoy sitting and working on projects (since knitting in portable :), talking to people visiting the show, and meeting other vendors.  

Some of my items including quilts for sale by Aimee MIchelle Designs

Cat hat - Peg + Cat

September first is my neice's birthday.  Every year, I nearly forget to send a gift (and some have been late) because we head to the cottage the week before.  This year, I'm happy to say, I was more prepared.  I'm proud to say the gift not only arrived on time but I managed to make it as well!

pbskids.org

My niece loves the show Peg + Cat.  She often gets her dad to pretend play Peg + Cat.  She gets to be Peg (the girl) and her dad is Cat (you can probably guess what cat is) ;)  After creating the Benjamin Bunny hat for a customer I had the bright idea of making a hat from the show for my niece Violet.  And the Cat hat was born!

I decided to crochet the hat as I felt I could more easily create the oval eyes in crochet than in knitting.  At least with my skills.  I started with a generic crochet hat pattern that I had.  I then created two uneven oval eyes, round pupils, and ears from my own knowledge of crochet stitches.  I must admit I was proud of myself.  I didn't create anything wild and crazy but it is a start to creating my own designs.  I think it turned out pretty well.

Finished hat

My daughter modeling the hat

My niece lives in Atlanta, Georgia so it is a bit warmer there than here in Ontario.  In the winter, it gets cool enough that a hat can be useful some days so I figured it was a good gift.  She loved it so much she put it on right away and wore it even though it was a warm August day.  Thank you to my sister-in-law for the great photos of Violet in her new hat!

My two neices.  I think Violet's sister  needs a hat too.
Look how sad she is ;)

Ahhh...  Relaxing!

A Cottaging We Go

Every year, at the end of August, we head to Prince Edward County for a week at the cottage with our neighbours.  It's a great time for relaxing and enjoying the county.  

One of our regular stops is for lunch and cider at the County Cider Company in Waupoos. This year I enjoyed a pear cider and super yummy salad.  You also can't beat the view!  There is nothing like eating lunch overlooking the grape vines and lake.

www.countycider.com

The Devil's Wishbone Winery is another yearly tradition.  We happened upon this winery 3 years ago and have been back every year since.  Not only is the view amazing here as well, but their wines are fantastic.  

http://www.devilswishbone.com/

This year, we also ventured to Sandbanks Provincial park to hit the beach for the first time.  It was super windy but the kids didn't mind.  It meant lots of waves to jump!

Of course, I also spend some time knitting!  I may have over estimated my knitting time however.  I brought a ton of yarn somehow thinking (or hoping) I would knock out a few hats and perhaps even start a blanket.  I managed half a hat. :)

Start on a hat

The rest of the yarn I brought and didn't need

While I didn't get much knitting done, I did manage to eat through a great book (The Rosie Project) in just two days.  I also finished a bunch of course prep for the classes I'm teaching this fall.  Along with some county travels, photography and family time.

One more day of summer then back to the routine of the school year.....

Happy long weekend!

The Inspiration to Start

Almost 6 months ago I decided to take my hobby of knitting and crochet and turn it into a little business (or at least try to).  Today I want to share with you what brought me to this decision and what keeps me going.

Passion 

We hear all the time that we should do what we love.  People spend so much time at work that it only makes sense.  Yet I've seen in my own life friends who stayed in jobs that lost that lovin' feeling and the effect it has had on them.  I myself have had to move on when a job started affecting my negatively physically and emotionally.  

I have always aimed to fill my life with doing what I love.  As a mother, I also want to set an example for my daughter.  I truly believe it is important for her to see how important it is to follow your heart and do what you love.

Creativity and Design

From the time I was young, I loved to build and create.  I wouldn't be surprised if to this day my mother shudders when she sees tape or string.  I used to spend hours weaving webs across my room using string and old yarn.  TInkertoy creations became better by taping pieces together when the design I wanted didn't quite fit with the pieces available.  Oh, and you can tie Tinkertoys together too.  Looking back, I'm thankful to my mom for allowing me to do these things that later drove her crazy.  I'm sure she saw the importance of creativity (and of her daughter being busy and quiet on her own).  

I love design and creativity.  Knitting and crocheting allows me to explore this whether it be altering a pattern slightly, trying new colours, or creating my own patterns.  I'm not quite a pattern creation virgin, but I'm no expert yet either.  But that leads to my next point.....

Learning

I love learning.  Well, I love learning stuff I'm excited about.  But that's just about all of us.  Starting my crafty business has allowed me to continue learning.  In the last 6 months alone I have tried numerous new patterns, dyed yarn for the first time, and created a couple patterns.  But that's not all!  I've also learned about what works and what doesn't at a craft show, about using social media to support your business, product display, etc.  And believe me, I'm still learning!  But I love it! 

Connection

I'm all about really connecting with people.  Whether it be in person or via social media, I love a good conversation.  And I love feeling that I've helped to make someone's day.  I didn't truly realize how much this would play a role until I got started.  I love talking to people at craft shows, sharing ideas and stories, getting to share my thoughts and adventures on my blog.  It really fuels me.

Back to Basics 

At the risk of sounding 'old', I'm going to say that in this day and age of bigger, better, faster I find myself gravitating more to a back to basics feeling.  Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my iPhone and many conveniences of the internet.  Take my internet or phone away for a day and I'm lost.  But I also love creating home cooked meals, finding more natural cleaners, canning my own tomatoes, and taking yarn and creating something beautiful.  With Etsy as popular as it is, I really feel that many of us need that feeling of back to basics from time to time too.  I can't quite describe the feeling of making or even receiving something that you know someone put time and love into. 

Possibility 

"You gotta get up and try, try, try"...  I love the artist P!nk.  On her latest album she recorded a song called "Try".  While the song is more about a relationship, I have adopted it as my theme song and it eventually inspired the one and only tattoo I have.  Trying is the first step to achieving anything.  If you don't try, you'll never know if you can fly became my mantra so to speak.  There is always a chance of failure and that is scary but so is not knowing if something awesome could come out of it.  In the end, failure is only failure if you consider it so.  Likely, it is more that you learned some things along the way.  Get up and try again - just this time do something different.  

Here is that tattoo.  It incorporates what I talked about above.  You have to try in order to fly and that is where the butterfly growing out of the word come in.  The butterfly also have another meaning.  The butterfly moving from a caterpillar to a full grown butterfly is also part of the logo for the organization I spent 10 years working for.  The co-workers, families, children and work done there will always hold a special place in my heart.

So there you are.  The why of why I am here with The Knotted Magnolia.  And before I go, I'd like to share another of my favourite things with you - Kid President.  If you haven't seen him before, he is awesome and he inspires me to be awesome through his videos.  This is a Pep Talk from Kid President which I have bookmarked on my laptop and watch whenever I need boost.

A Pep Talk from Kid President

What will you do today to make your, or someone else's, day awesome?