jannikinz

2008-11-17T14:08:00.002+11:00

I feel like I've been a ghost these past few months. Truth is, it's been a very depressing year.

On March 24th, my Brother passed away from a sudden heart attack, while sitting at the bedside of my dying Mother. The medical staff tried to revive him, but after 20 minutes, he was pronounced dead. The thing that was most distressing about that was I was in the room too....the whole time....holding my mothers hand. Even though she could not communicate any longer, you could see her eyes clouded over, she knew exactly what was happening, and there was no way I was going to leave her.
Four days later on March 28th, she also passed away. My Mother had Cancer of the coccyx and lung cancer. She had never smoked a day in her life.

My Brother was 52 and my Mother was 82.

May they be at peace.

2008-01-17T13:29:00.000+11:00

A FEATHERED VISITOR COMES TO MY BACKYARD.

This is not his first visit to my backyard, this is the first time he actually "Posed" while his picture was taken.

He only stayed about 5 or 10 minutes, but it was nice for me to see him again

2007-12-14T13:43:00.000+11:00

THE LITTLE FELLA CAN DRAW PRETTY GOOD:::::::::::::::

My Grandson, Zac. He draws very well for a 5year old, and writes very well too. A couple of days ago he sent me a card in the mail..the outside was addressed by an adult hand, but everything on the inside was written by him...and...it was very legible.
He starts school next year.

Hope everyone has a Happy & safe Festive season.

2007-11-08T13:50:00.000+11:00

Fruit salad anyone?

There are times when I don't feel like following a pattern...the last couple of evenings were one of those times...so with hook in hand and some yarn I decided a little experiment...Fruit!
There will be more added to this lot over the next few weeks..needs some greenery...

2007-10-17T09:46:00.000+10:00

On the way home from work yesterday afternoon

I saw this ............. what is it, what is it? It's a Rainbow...lol.

2007-10-15T15:36:00.000+10:00

MEET NELLIE..................

I love my "Yarnable".

Well, she WAS mine.. I am not her creator, I am her Maker.
Comes from a pattern by Bernat, Canada.

She was entered in the Royal Melbourne Show this year....&...came in 3rd.
Of that I was very happy.
There was another toy that "I created", no pattern, just what came from my head..hee hee, it got a Commendation. Must be doing something right. AND they both SOLD, mind you no profit was made, especially after commission and GST comes out. If I made a profit of 10 $ after all that, then I'm happy.

2007-09-24T10:50:00.000+10:00

Hello...still here lurking.

A little picture of Orchids, picked from my Aunties garden on saturday. These flowers are just magnificent. Photo doesn't really do them justice.

I've been doing bundles of knitting & crocheting over the past few months. This year I managed to get a Commendation and a Third prize in the Royal Melbourne Show...needless to say, I was very chuffed about that.

My Mum is still hanging in there, battling along. Only a higher power knows when the time.....
When someone you LOVE has been diagnosed with in-operable Cancer...it's tuff.

Keep well.

2007-03-02T08:13:00.000+11:00

MY FIRST SWAP COMPLETED

A huge thankyou to my SWAP BOT friend from Canada for this lovely piece of handmade jewellery. It will look great with the right chain, or even maybe a thin leather strap...hmmm, good excuse to go shopping. Thanks again 'Pickle'.

2007-02-27T10:21:00.000+11:00

On Friday 23rd Feb......

....this was taken as I was driving to the country to see mum...about 300 kms...with a mobile phone....hand hanging out the window...Actually the sunset was a lot nicer than in the pik.

Mum and I had a really good weekend..the nursing home where she is now, is really nice and comfortable, and the staff....I have never met a nicer group of carers. It makes me feel more at ease knowing she is in good hands. We both look forward to every second weekend. It's a long drive...I worked it out that I drive approx 800kms every second weekend....but she's worth it.

My niece, Asheleigh is 20 tomorrow....Happy Birthday Ashe....Oooh, and I just realised my eldest son will be 31 this year. . . and my "Baby Boy" is just 27....Dear me, I don't feel young when these sort of numbers come to mind...

Happy Tuesday everyone.

2007-02-22T13:34:00.000+11:00

24 and COUNTING !

Yes, it's only 24 days to the Melbourne Grand Prix. This was taken about an hour and a half ago, and as you can see the works are in full progress. And almost diagonally across from this scene will be where a group of friends and I will be partying. I just love this time of the year...the build up to the GP is electrifying.

In the meantime I have joined SWAP-BOT ..This is going to prove interesting and this is the first time I have done such a thing. Am very eagerly awaiting my first swap package....and three more in the near future..

There has been more stash enhancement of late..(only himself above knows why)..I sure don't know why...just can't help myself..

Something funny to finish off with....I tried to knit from a graph...HUH...no way Charlie... I am now in the process of reading & writing out the whole pattern in long hand.......aaaah, that'll teach me!

2007-02-14T14:43:00.000+11:00

Aaaagh!!!!!

Oh dear, this blogger thing is coming VERY CLOSE to doing my head in...At first it forced me to switch to the "New & Better version"...HUH!!!, and consequently wiped the Flickr badge from the blog. Am I the only one who this has happened to?
Now the brain cells are attempting to work overtime in order to rectify this problem. Any advice would be handy.
I think I need a drink.

2007-01-31T12:33:00.000+11:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO AMBER

My dear Grandaughter, Amber, is 10 today.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMBER.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday.

AND

It's also my first BLOGIVERSARY today.

I'd like to give someone a pressie, (possibly a package of fancy yarn stuff)..any takers??? come and say hi.
It's Wednesday here....and on Friday, names will go into a hat or something
similar...An independent party will dip in, grab out a name...IT COULD BE YOU.

Happy Hump Day Wednesday.

2007-01-18T14:51:00.000+11:00

FLOWERS TO PUT A SMILE ON MY FACE

My lovely daughter in law....Tracey gave me these flowers on Sunday just gone..All home grown too. The garden is only small, but it is very well nurtured. Also, considering that water is like liqiud gold at the moment, she has done herself proud.

INTRODUCING......."NIKKI"

This set of 4 wheels will be named 'Nikki' after I take possession in 2 days time.
Unfortunately my car that I am driving at the moment, Carrolle Corolla, is being put into retirement. I think she is well past her use by date. But not to say she hasn't been good to me. For the small amount of $$$ she cost me, she more than did me good! It may sound a bit kooky, but a person's gotta have a name for their car...Nikki is a 'KIA'.

The fires are still raging here in the state of Victoria. So much damage has been done. Praying for rain.

A sincere THANKYOU to all the dedicated Firefighters and Volunteers who are doing a great job with their efforts in extinguishing this carnage. You are truly a special bunch of people.

2007-01-04T14:52:00.000+11:00

Also CONGRATULATIONS to me. At the end of duty today...in another 1 hour and 40 minutes.....TA DA....I will have completed 20 YEARS service in the same job! soooooo happy about that.

2007-01-04T13:23:00.000+11:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Hope everyone did have a good time wherever and however you saw in the New Year.

It certainly has been a while since I did a post. My dear Mum is having a few health issues. The medical teams etc are working on giving her a reasonable quality of living. My 'MA' will be 81 years young on the 7th Jan. She lives about 4 hours drive away....and I will travelling every other weekend to see her, starting tomorrow.

Keep well.....I'll be back!

2006-11-20T13:16:00.000+11:00

LATEST ACQUISITION

The only word to describe this book is AWESOME! Finally, I now own a copy. The first design to knit will be Midwest Moonlight. And very slowly followed by about 5 or 6 more..

From the WOOL BAA shop in Albert Park, Melbourne. A few weeks ago, I purchased some yarn on-line from them, this time I went there in person. It's small but good quality, worth a visit if you are nearby.

BTW - that's my lunch in the top right hand corner. Prawn & noodle salad rice paper rolls with a spicy dipping sauce...Mmmmm Yum...

2006-11-07T08:41:00.000+11:00

PRIDE & JOY

It never crossed my mind that something like this would be done in approximately 3 weeks, and in between working on other projects too. Giving myself a pat on the back for this number because I'm a smidge chuffed that it is FINISHED.

A close up view. All that remains now is a little wash etc. and it will be ready to use.

It's a quiet day in Melbourne today, that is for those select few that are at the cube farm. The race that stops the nation is on this afternoon..the good old MELBOURNE CUP..fingers crossed that my horses from the office sweep will do well.
The skies here have just started to drizzle, which is a good thing because the drought is so severe. Pray for a few days of good downfall which is so desperately needed. Melbourne may only be on stage 2 water restrictions, but in the Wimmera Mallee region, they have been on stage 4 for quite some time. They can't even wash their cars from a bucket of water.

On the lighter side of things....think of all those young Fillies & Colts out at the track today, all dressed in their finest without umbrellas...Now that's worth a giggle. lol. :-)

2006-11-06T12:23:00.000+11:00

Another W. I. P.

Which means to me YAAAY, the Snowflake Ghan is finished, but um - er - ahem - guess who forgot to photograph it..Moi... This is the first thing that will be done on entering the home this evening. Stay tuned for a squizz because it's AWESOME...am soo happy with the result :-)

This newbie, which has only just been started, will also be Ghan size. The yarn in this project is TLC Cara Mia, just love working with that yarn. It might take some time to complete as I am doing the whole thing in single crochet....oooooh boy.

2006-10-24T11:58:00.000+10:00

He's a WEIRD looking fellow, this POOPY DUCK.

This is NOT what I would call a success. Hopefully the next one will be a little more symmetrical. Possibly the beak done a different way and a little smaller. WOW, that is one decent sized snout!!!.

The Snowflake afghan in previous post..had 14 motifs sewn together....Now it has 33 - Yaay that means it's a bit over the half way mark, and the next picture of it will be of the completed project.

2006-10-17T15:39:00.000+10:00

F. O. --- Something finished.

A few weeks ago My Grandaughter & I went shopping in the city. What better way to start spending the good earned dollar than at a yarn store. She picked out the yarn herself, and the colour too. It will match the auburn hair perfectly. the last row of this crocheted scarf had 1360 stitches.

U. F. O. --- W. I. P.

This will be my coloured version of Snowflake Afghan. The only thing uniform is the white border. The medallions are very enjoyable to do, at this stage..but....maybe....will have to re-think that after a couple dozen more are made.
After having a look in the Works-In-Progress basket, must to promise myself not to start any more new projects, until a few more are completed.... There's a lot in there..

2006-10-13T08:01:00.000+10:00

A LITTLE STASH ENHANCEMENT

TRENDSETTER YARN, this is quite soft. With the amount on 6 skeins, I should be able to make a couple of shawls. Maybe, I'm being a bit ambitious on this one, Just got to find the right pattern. & now that my circular needles are in action and the cord is no longer doing it's own thing, this yarn is high on my list of to make something with projects. NOT JUST LOOK AT IT.

Mmmm, this ROWAN LINEN PRINT is just gorgeous. Don't know exactly what it will be as it was bought for a Christmas present. But I can look at it for a bit before it gets bundled out to a new home...boo hoo

Both of these yummy yarns are from the knitting garden.

TLC Cara Mia

Last but not least, this Cara Mia yarn purchased from Spotlight for a mere $3au per skein, would have to be one of the softest yarns out there. It's made up of 50% acrylic, 19% nylon, 18% rayon and 13% angora. It comes in quite a good range of colours too. There's going to be a nice handbag coming out of this one.

How many of these did I buy??? Not telling anyone, but let's just say that the shop did very well from my now empty purse.. hee hee, and loving it!

Have a great weekend everyone.

2006-10-11T15:08:00.000+10:00

Mmmmmm it's SPRING!!!

One has been waiting a few months now to wear white shoes to work. Just thought to share that with you. At 1400 on 11th Oct it was 27.9 celsius, and in Horsham (where my mum lives) it was 29.7 celsius..

This makes a person happy :-)

2006-10-10T16:18:00.000+10:00

H E L P....please

Does anyone know how to straighten the cord on circular needles?? The set I have is that plastic thingamy stuff and they're useless because every time I try to use them....YEP....they curl up. Frustrating, annoying, it's doing my head in.
Thankyou.

2006-10-05T15:02:00.000+10:00

SATURDAY SUNSET AT ST. KILDA....30TH September

On Saturday the family & I went to listen to a band in St. Kilda before having a
pizza for dinner... A small Birthday celebration ....
Son nbr 1..took this sunset photo with his phone.. Rather awesome I thought.

2006-09-28T08:24:00.000+10:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY NUMBER 1 SON..

Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew.

Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew. Andrew.

Born September 28th 1976. And it only seems like yesterday that a 22yr old gave birth to her first child. Ow, did I say that?

Andrew, I truly wish you a fabulous day. You will never be anything else but my nbr 1 boy.

2006-09-26T08:43:00.000+10:00

25th September in MELBOURNE.

The Royal Melbourne Show 2006, is in full swing.

Some MAORI culture. The performance from these ladies was just superb.

Standing, listening to them, it was such a pleasure to hear their voices.

I had a day off yesterday to attend. This tent was just huge, massive. It had so many displays & stands in it, and still had plenty of space. There were quite a few wine displays with free sampling....Mmmm, yes, most of the wines I tasted were ??? nice and mellowing..

This is my happy photo...My entry this year got me a third prize. Very happy about that...One of these days I'll get that ELUSIVE BLUE RIBBON..

The day turned out to be excellent weather wise..no rain. and the crowd, yes, there was a very large crowd. By the time I got home, couldn't wait to sit down... with a lavendar foot soak, aaaaaaaaaah, that's what it's all about.

2006-09-13T08:13:00.000+10:00

My PRINCESS

....my Grandaughter, Amber. She is truly an amazing little girl. She will be 10 in January 07.
The hair is to die for...Appearances can be deceiving, her hair seems to be about halfway down her back....ha ha ha....that is because it is so curly, almost like ringlets...but combed down (or stretched a bit), she can almost sit on it...and that hair colour....GRRRRR....I have to resort to the bottle every few weeks to try & get mine looking a similar shade to that. Like I say, she is my PRINCESS.

and a TURTLE IN A JADE TREE.....

This is a very athletic little fellow. Standing, he is about 5.5cm. He thinks he is very clever because he can climb trees.

2006-09-11T08:32:00.000+10:00

9:11

The world will never forget. May they be at peace.

2006-09-06T09:26:00.000+10:00

SWEET GUARDS

These two little fellas are my sweet guards. Made from acrylic yarn, 2 strands of sportweight. The big eyed one is going to a new home later today and his new owner who is 1 should have lots of fun.

2006-09-05T16:19:00.000+10:00

I am a
Canna

What Flower
Are You?

2006-09-05T12:42:00.000+10:00

DURING MY LUNCHBREAK................

....sitting outside for a while...enjoying some sunshine....and watching the bees attack the lavender....all too soon it was time to return to the 'cube farm"......Oh well.!.

2006-09-05T09:18:00.000+10:00

BEAR & BUNNY

Two more little friends. They're waiting for the weather to warm up just a smidge more before entering the wide world. In the mean time they're quite happy with each others company at home.

2006-09-04T16:58:00.000+10:00

BODY GUARDS

These two little "pets" were my escorts & body guards this morning as I travelled to work.. fearing I would not get there, go around the block and end up at home again, they made sure that I didn't..believe me, the thought was there..They may be small but are quite ferocious.(hee hee)..

And in a couple of days they will be joined by two more...beasts..What fun!!!

2006-09-01T12:21:00.000+10:00

NICE DAY FOR IT.....

First day of SPRING....perfect for a day at the beach.. Mr. Grandson is out there somewhere walking the sands with his mum.. and where am I??? stuck in a place that cannot be escaped from for another 4 hours...

And a PINCH & A PUNCH............

2006-08-29T10:19:00.000+10:00

SPRING IS SPRINGING

On the way to the shops last night to get some milk, seeing blossoms means coming to the end of the CCCOOOLLLDDD weather.

Most of the street just around the corner from where I live (Prahran) is like this. It made for a nice little walk.

2006-08-29T09:59:00.000+10:00

A LITTLE STASH ENHANCEMENT

Truly couldn't help myself...from ozeyarns...
Most of this will be used to make little wee toys for the bubbies.. My s.i.l. & I are planning to have a craft stall in sometime in November...just in time for when peeples are doing Christmas shopping. Need more money for more yarn, says me who is SABLE for more than a life term. I think I may be a yarnaholic.

2006-08-22T15:01:00.000+10:00

FIRST EVER BOOK ON AMIGURUMI

Would you believe it? How many times has a person tried in shops etc, to get something like this?? I have lost count..and certainly was not prepared to pay with *gold bullion* for similar from e/bay..Then, a catalogue arrived from CROCHET AUSTRALIA
Oh, how I looooove shopping on the internet.. Yes they had this in their catalogue, couldn't order it quick enough, plus a couple of other items too.
The Roly Poly toys will be fun to do.

Also purchased were two pairs of knitting PINS, yes I say PINS. One set is 1.25mm and the other is 1.5mm...too thin to photograph..LOL.

Anyone thinking of dealing with CROCHET AUSTRALIA, I give a positive recommendation. They are safe & fast.
p.s. I have just put in another order.

2006-08-16T07:46:00.000+10:00

THE START OF SOMETHING

These little things are fiddly to make. They will be used as embellishments on little girl bags that I have been making. Oh so many WIP's, but they are slowly being worked through. I should make myself a resolution, not to start anything new until all wip's are finished... yeah - right - in my dreams..

2006-08-11T12:58:00.000+10:00

HELP TO KNIT A RIVER, AND GIVE ALL AN OPPORTUNITY TO DRINK

This is just the start of some squares that have been made for the WATER AID CAMPAIGN

The deadline for the squares is early 2007. Hey that's plenty of time to knit a square or two. C'mon give it a go! Thankyou.

Have a great weekend.

2006-08-08T09:29:00.000+10:00

MEET MR. BLUE JELLYBEAN

Mr. Blue Jellybean takes a bit under 50gr of Zhivago (PATONS) yarn to make. This yarn is very soft and is ideal for toys like these and babies love them, so do some big babies. I have lost count of how many of these I've made over the past 10 years. It's from a book by Jean Greenhowe.

2006-08-07T09:34:00.000+10:00

A WALK ALONG THE BEACH

Yesterday it started out as drizzly in Melbourne....Not for very long thank goodness.
It was just perfect for a picnic at Black Rock beach. The grandson had a great time on the toys - swings, slides etc, and he didn't forget to eat either, as kids tend to do when there is something better on offer.

Then it was time for a stroll. It was just magic walking along looking out over the water, talking & laughing. Oh, I think we had an early touch of spring.

2006-08-01T09:18:00.000+10:00

HE GOT IT!

Oops, nearly forgot...while away, this was another of my completed thingamys. Little Zac was very happy to receive it in the mail.

2006-08-01T07:50:00.000+10:00

GOOD TO BE BACK

The last 12 days have gone by sooo fast. I have just returned from spending a few days with my dear Mum. She is doing ok for someone who is 80. Yes, she has a few health issues (who doesn't), the main one being her severe anaemia. Every 8weeks or so she has to get 2 units of the *Red Stuff*. This gives her that little bit extra up and go. This time I was able to be there with her, and that to me was worth the 4 hour drive. We also get on very well and do enjoy each others company. I LOVE MY MUM!
While I was away, I was able to complete a couple of my craft projects. One knitted and the other was crochet. Photos will be up in a couple of days.
It is good to be back....even to the *cube farm*..

2006-07-17T13:46:00.000+10:00

Special FLEURS

The beautiful flowers just arrived for yours truly..from 2 special people in my life.. Thankyou Kay & Ron.

Thankyou also to so many out there, you know who you are, who also made my day SPECIAL.

2006-07-14T14:13:00.000+10:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME.17th juleeeeeeee..(lol)

Actually, it is THAT TIME OF THE YEAR!!! Again.... I remember only just last year I had one of those...Last year - YIKES, it seems like last month...crazy bananas how the years are flying by......New theme song - The old grey mare she ain't what she used to be, aint what she used to be...

Happy Birthday to all Cancerians.

In the making............is....well, sort of ..going to be a wonky superman..

Should end up in Mr. Grandsons hands about next week. He just needs some 'hair' and a cape. Hopefully a nice little surprise in the mail for him.

2006-07-05T07:59:00.000+10:00

JOY - HAPPINESS - EXCITEMENT - ELATION......

And all over a package of yarn that arrived on Tuesday from Elann.
The service I received from them was excellent. Fast and hassle free. I will certainly buy from them again and recommend them to anyone.

There are 12 balls of the 'Grape" colour...it's cotton. Something for the summer is imminent for this lot. I'll really have to put some thought into it as this yarn is awesome :-)

This 'Blue'Pharao...is also cotton, quite fine. I have 5 balls of it and as yet have not decided what to make from it. So for the time being it will be part of the stash, but not for long.

It's Wednesday here in Melbourne, looks nice outside.....BUT.....looks are deceiving.
It is CCOOLLDD outsisde.
Time to see what can be created today. (er, time to get back to work I mean) :-)

2006-07-03T12:00:00.000+10:00

TUNING IN

That's my man...(Mr.Grandson)...in his pj's. Maybe I should call him Pyjama Man..
Another 6 weeks and he'll be 4.

OK - READY TO PERFORM NOW

What can I say...........he's...A STAR IN THE MAKING!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-07-03T10:43:00.000+10:00

Hand Warmers

The grey ones were made last week and the red ones just this past weekend. Easy to make and took so little yarn.

2006-06-28T12:49:00.000+10:00

My Mittens

These very warm mittens arrived today. An absolute Gem by the name of Suse was commissioned to make them....and did an awesome job. I couldn't be happier and I know these are going to keep the hands warm on very cold mornings going to work.
Have a look at some of the fabulous work on Pea Soup

Thanks again Suse, I love them.

2006-06-22T10:24:00.000+10:00

From "The Peak"

My youngest son, Chris (a.k.a. Bubby)is on his first overseas trip. In Honk Kong at the moment, then off to Phillipines for a few days. He's stoked, the lucky duck. I once went to Hong Kong, stayed at the Excellsior Hotel, oh so many years ago. And can only imagine the changes that have taken place since then. (btw - 1987) Hopefully ONE DAY, another trip will happen, but if it doesn't, I've still got my memories.

Have a Happy Thursday everyone.

2006-06-21T08:41:00.000+10:00

Not so long ago I purchased a 'Knitting Loom'.. This has fast become one of my favourite novelties. One can play with yarn and come up with an item that can be worn, be it on the head, but still worn. They came in a pack of 4 different sizes and were only $10 (aus) from Spotlight (on special of course).

This little beanie ....is called Bobble Beauty. Very quick to make. Not my own pattern, it's by Dot Matthews from 'Crochet by the hook'. Dot has quite a few patterns available to use and I highly recommend having a look at her site. It's awesome. Thankyou Dot.

2006-06-14T10:48:00.000+10:00

Relaxing on the weekend

My friend "YODA" always enjoys relaxing, and he makes for an extremely good bed warmer.

Another "Friend", his name is "CHOKKY". He likes his 'ear' scratches

While on a day off from work yesterday, I decided to have a wander in the city and do a spot of retail therapy. Came across a kindly old gentleman who was feeding the pidgeons. As you can see there were quite a few enjoying their seed.

2006-06-08T08:47:00.000+10:00

GOODMORNING MELBOURNE * FROM THE OFFICE WINDOW

It was quite an early start..only 4 shivering degrees when I got up this morning.
And while most sane people are still under the covers, guess who wasn't? Does that tell you anything? LOL.

This is the almost sunrise that awaited when I got to the office. Taken at about 7.25am with a mobile phone. A few minutes later it was a very vivid orange, but trying to get a half reasonable shot was impossible.

Time to think about warming up...Is knitting / crocheting in the office an option???
ABSOLUTELY and POSITIVELY ***AFFIRMATIVE***.

2006-05-29T17:01:00.000+10:00

TABASCO

He's a handsome fellow and knows it too.

Looking forward to,in a couple of weeks time...a weekend of R&R, and a bottle or two.

Spending a day or two away from the city is just wonderful. Almost like a mini holiday, and one good thing is that it's only about an hour and a half away.

No noisy cars screeching and hooning down the streets...just peace, and **COLD**brrrrrr.
Yes it gets very cold there, so must remember to take something WARMING.

2006-05-23T15:28:00.000+10:00

FROM THE OFFICE WINDOW

With reflections and all, even an exit sign spelt backwards....This is what we see from the "Office Window" right at this moment..it's about 3.30pm on Tuesday 23rd May...and I think the skies are about to open up, makes me glad that I'm indoors. Rather an awesome sight.

2006-05-15T14:53:00.000+10:00

LOOKING FOR SUNSHINE IN MELBOURNE

Need Sunshine...On a break, I went to look for some, I couldn't find any. All I found was a tram going past.

I found the front of the building where I work.

I found a tree out the front of where I work. And the leaves are going brown...this is not a nice time of year........Is there someone out there who could send some sunshine to us downunder? Any would be greatly appreciated. Thankyou.

2006-05-09T07:46:00.000+10:00

"WAS"

IS

Oh Dear, Last night this is what one was working on...Actually I was very pleased with the progress....and normally an item wouldn't get photographed until it is finished....THEN, I heard the 'VOICES' saying to me, "take a photo, take a photo", so, always willing to oblige them, I did.... glad now because not 10 minutes later it landed on the floor..."OOPSIE" was not quite the correct term used...more like #*&*^%*^&, hee hee. OK - next.

On the lighter side of things. "CONGRATULATIONS" to all those involved in the rescue of the two trapped miners at Beaconsfield, Tasmania. TWO very happy men walked out of the mine this morning at around 6am. Could you even imagine what it would have been like to spend the best part of two weeks underground and not knowing if you would see daylight again? Someone was looking out for them, that's for sure.

2006-05-08T08:35:00.000+10:00

INSPIRATIONS

These books, plus a number of other items arrived from the Ukrainian Gift Shop (http://www.ukrainiangiftshop.com/pages/art6.htm) , on 2nd May. So many great designs in them that it's difficult to choose what to work on. White eggs seem to be in short supply, so will have to practice some lines on a few brown ones.

With Mothers Day coming up on May 14th, I knitted Mum a scarf yesterday. A big daggy, but at least it will help in keeping her warm.

Another thing I purchased over the weekend was 'Sock Wool'....Yes, I am going to ATTEMPT knitting socks. Looking at so many pictures of what others have done has spurred me into giving it a go. Hmmm, maybe I can knit two left feet...........

2006-05-03T10:42:00.000+10:00

A Happy Day...28th April

Recently I was able to take a few days off work. Great in itself..but even greater is that I was able to spend them with my Mum who lives abut 300 kilometers away in Horsham. While there, my niece Simone was travelling through on a school excursion and stopping for lunch, we were able to have a little "catch up". The younger generation are getting taller...or is it that we are shrinking? Mum was so happy to see her Grand-daughter as it had been quite some time since she last saw her. I think Mum is about 5'3".and for an Octogenarian, I think she looks pretty good.

2006-04-18T13:22:00.000+10:00

LEARNING SOMETHING NEW - PYSANKY

On the 8th April my Sister In Law & I went along to a "CRAFT" class.
What I did in there - was a total muck up. I had absolutely no idea, very frustrating, but wasn't going to let that get the better of me. Practice practice and lots of it, including wrecking about half a dozen eggs, glad those poor chooks couldn't see what I had done to all their *HARD WORK*, hee hee.. This is the result. Still a long way to go before the wobbly lines straighten up. Maybe if I had a glass of Chardy in one hand and the Kistka in the other, would the lines improve?....hmmmm.
Might have to try that one when I am on annual leave in a few days.

2006-04-12T15:22:00.000+10:00

TREASURE JUST ARRIVED

Just had to share this...One of my MANY MANY e/bay purchases.. There are 6 of the light blue and 2 of the darker blue....Maybe something for my Grand-daughter. I think the blue would go very well with her deep auburn hair.

2006-04-12T08:25:00.000+10:00

V 8 at the Melbourne Grand Prix

Very early on the morning of 2nd April 2006, five of us set off to the Grand Prix, (as in 5.30am). We wanted to get the "BEST SPOT"..ha ha, of course we knew the gates didn't open until 7am and so decided to take a little something to keep us going. Yes, the champagne was very nice at that time of the morning..
Woo Hoo, a good day was had by all..but alas, when it came to taking photos the hand was not too steady and that resulted in a ***LACK*** of photos.
It is a great day out.

Happy Easter all.

2006-04-07T11:46:00.000+10:00

WORKS IN PROGRESS..

One day in the not too distant future this will be a finished Frog. Stay tuned!!
In the foreground are two gold coloured crochet hooks, I bought these about 25 years ago and they are just the best to work with. Nice & smooth.

Keep Happy.

2006-04-05T16:32:00.000+10:00

CROCHETED LION

I think I did this little fella a little while ago, hey could be up to 18 months. Time flies, especially when the hook is on the go. Am currently working on quite a few "Little Ones" and should get them finished within a couple of weeks.

Time is also getting near for one to think about getting some creations together for the Royal Melbourne Show again. So far in the pipeworks are: Uncle Sam, which is a knitted toy (not started). One of my own creations will be a "doll" done in freehand..actually I am very pleased with the progress on that one (that's the only one that is started), and my favourite, it's crocheted. and last but not least I am planning to knit another Teddy in white 8ply cotton.

Happy crafting.

2006-03-30T13:12:00.000+11:00

This is a little something I made a few days ago. No pattern was used just trial & error...What fun.
Haven't read the book yet either, excpet for about 5 pages. Been told it's good and also looking forward to the movie.

It's a quiet Thursday in Melbourne, except for when the cars are out for their practice sessions for the F1 Grand Prix. Where I work is less than 5 minutes walk from the 'Track'. OMG!, the sound is terrific & can't wait for Sunday when the main race is on. Lots of preparation to do before then...catering for dinner saturday night & the breakfasts & lunches on the Sunday..This does include champagne this year as an appetiser...Champagne at 5.30am, er yes we do.
Getting to the track from home doesn't take long we leave (by taxi) and it takes less than 10 minutes..One of the advantages of living "Inner Suburbia".
Will post some pikkis next week as where we usually stand is a *GOOD SPOT* (so we like to think).
Just have to hope now that the weather holds out.

2006-03-08T17:47:00.000+11:00

I have had the greatest pleasure in reading an absolutely amazing blog of "The Crochet Dude". What can I say??? Brilliant, just brilliant.
Alongside "The Monster Crochet" site, which by the way is my all time favourite, this is another "Awesome Favourite".

Crochet,can't stop, am SOOO totally obsessed...it seems that there is a hook in hand almost 24/7. I have been doing a few freehand experiments, calling them *KOOKY KREATURES* (will post some pikkis once I work out the program, i for one am not completely computer savvy). Must get into some knitting soon too, before I forget how.. Aaah, I don't think that is likely to ever happen.

Looking forward to a nice warm weekend here in Melbourne..Should reach 31 deg. on Saturday (25/3/06), which is just perfect for the beach. splish splash.

2006-02-21T16:42:00.000+11:00

EXCITING TIMES FOR MELBOURNE !

Just a snapshot of Melbourne City coming in from the Westgate Freeway. It was taken from my car while driving, "NO STOPPING" allowed they say, hmmm......... it has been done.. Oops.

Anyhow, Melbourne is in the process of preparing to host the Commonwealth Games. Somewhere in that hazy mist there is a lot of activity going on. Hard to imagine.

What is even more exciting is the FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX...Now that is an event not to be missed. To all the 'Rev Heads' out there, 'You know what I mean'. This year it is on the 2nd April, and I will be there TRACKSIDE with friends & a set of earplugs.
The Adrenalin will be OUTTA CONTROL.

2006-02-03T14:43:00.000+11:00

He can't possibly do without a compass to help navigate his way to the ' 19th hole '.

2006-02-03T14:40:00.000+11:00

side view showing some of the detail

2006-02-03T14:32:00.000+11:00

This is my 'Clown'which was made a little while ago. He lives with me, but maybe one day he can be 'Adopted' to a good home.

2006-01-31T13:11:00.000+11:00

As they say Downunder...."G'Day Mate".. Oh have I ever had a mental blank!

I love to knit & crochet. It doesn't matter what the temperture is, because when it's hot all that is needed is a container of talcum on standby and away I go!

A favourite pastime is knitting & crocheting TOYS. Doilies, scarves, bags, beanies. I attempt anything that can be done with either a crochet hook or a pair of knitting needles.

Back in 1997 a very dear friend, now no longer with us in this world, convinced me to put an entry into the Royal Melbourne Show. Straight away I thought 'yeah right', and after heaps of nagging I did. It was the 'Jean Greenhowe" knitted golfing clown. It's got all the 'trimmings' as in golf clubs with covers, umbrella, tees, quite a bit of work....well I got a 'Commendation' for it, and was absolutely stoked. So thanks "Heather" .
That was the start of quite a few prizes..some time in the not too distant future I will put up a few photos.

Family, yes, Two Sons and Two Grandchildren (no husband tho', kicked him out a few years ago - oh so very much past USE BY date). Grand-daughter is 9 today and Grand-Son is 3 & 1/2 going on 23.. where does intelligence come from? - these days the "Littlies" seem to know so much more than than we did at the same age.
Have a great last day in January 2006.