tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81977464072173203682024-03-13T19:16:57.305-07:00Granny Taught Me To CrochetGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-84331934221929262522013-02-17T05:51:00.000-08:002013-02-19T11:36:16.206-08:007/52 - the warmth of the sun :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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1. How could I not include the exciting heart swap I received this week! You can read all about what was in those lovely red and turquoise packages <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/heart-swap.html">here</a>.<br />
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2. Pancake Day! Wahoo! I had such a fab evening. We had our lovely friends over for a home made lasagna and salad and then the famous Jubilee Pancake. Cherry's and ice cream ..... yummy! No complaints that night .... and if you are wondering which pancake recipe I swear by it is Delia's. Though instead of half water and milk, I use all milk.<br />
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3. Its been so nice to feel a little bit of warmth from the sun this week, wouldn't you agree. Yesterday I could wait to get into the garden and do a job I have been putting off for ages. I needed to tackle those unruly wild geraniums. Don't get me wrong, I love them, but just not everywhere, and certainly not chocking my spring bulbs and other plants. <br />
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So I set to it. A woman on a mission - with a spade. I feel so much better! My front beds are looking spacious and tidy ready for some lovely plants to go in. I also revealed hundreds of green shoots poking out of the ground.... hopefully some lovely crocus' and bluebells! I am a true sucker for spring bulbs!<br />
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So my third picture today is Ivy my chicken. She is filling out a lot, and producing some marvellous eggs! She certainly was happy with a couple of wheelbarrows full of weeds and clumps of wild geraniums to sort though. A little bit of green always does them good and the roots would have contained lots and lots of creepy crawlies!<br />
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4. A final joyous occasion in our house. Two beautiful bright red, ripe and delicious punnets of strawberry's. The perfect Saturday afternoon snack after a couple of hours in the garden!<br />
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I hope you have also had a great week! <br />
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Kate xxxxxxxxxxx<br />
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-61229199299971054112013-02-16T03:25:00.002-08:002013-02-16T11:01:28.043-08:00Shopping Bag LoveHave I mentioned how much I love my Granny Chic book I had for Christmas off my sister who must know me so well! Well if I have forgotten to mention this small fact then ....... I LOVE IT!!!<br />
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I have a small plan of every time I buy some new yarn, I have to use some up from my stash .... as I have to admit it is getting slightly ridiculous! So I decided to balance the act of buying some lovely chunky yarn for a ripple blanket, by using up some sock yarn I had left over from a scarf I made last year. <br />
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After browsing the Granny Chic book for some divine inspiration I decided to make myself a string shopping bag. Without a cause, or planned use, I knew I wanted one hanging on my pegs in my newly decorated hall. <br />
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I set to it. Using a 6mm hook and some fine sock yarn. Making a lovely round base to start and watching the colours melt into one another. It was a dream to work with slight yarn and a big hook. So fast and easy to catch. No splitting and it quickly spiralled into a lovely circle which I then could build up from. <br />
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Oh the sides were wonderful too. Simply wonderful. Just a dc and ch5 into each gap. This created the most stretchy and shape adapting bag there ever was! And no signs of this one ripping under strain! This was going to be a very strong bag!<br />
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After I had hooked up the sides I decided to bring it in a little by decreasing every time by just 1. So I did 1 dc into 2 gaps and then ch5. This added a little shape and charm to my bag. And I think that is the beauty of crafting. Once you know what you are doing you can change a simple pattern or recipe into something that is truly your own. And if it goes wrong, who cares! That's the glory of crochet .... you can unravel up to where you went wrong!<br />
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Nearly done now. Just a couple of handles to make ........<br />
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So here is my ta-dahing moment. And what better place to ta-dah than on my new quarry tiles!!!!!<br />
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TA-DAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />
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Such a fabulous way to keep all those gloves and hats together during winter. And I am sure I will think of a grand use during the summer! Maybe keeping my flip flops, a book and a blanket in .... all ready for summers day outing!<br />
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So if you are looking for a stash busting and quick project .... that is equally as satisfying then this is for you!<br />
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Speak soon and welcome to my new fabulous followers!<br />
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Kate xxxxxxxxxxxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-11607174385723386532013-02-16T03:08:00.000-08:002013-02-16T03:08:16.375-08:00Heart SwapI usually don't mind getting up early on a Saturday. Mostly because it means I can have a good catch up of all the weekly blogs and also post an update. <br />
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This week has been very exciting. I received a lovely parcel in the post. In fact .... Mr Postman couldn't get it through the door so I had the added further excitement of actually going to collect it.<br />
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I knew when I walked into the collection office exactly which one my parcel was. Not the ones in the brown and white packages .... oh no ..... there was one on the S shelf covered in heart tape .... I told the lady not to worry about looking because that one with the hearts on it would be mine (at this point I though ... Kate you are brave ..... what if it isn't!) and I was right!<br />
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I then had to have the Shall I Save It, Shall I Open It battle ..... and decided I should save it for the big V Day!<br />
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So here is what the lovely lovely Sue of <a href="http://www.suepops.co.uk/">@ home</a> (to see her wonderful blog go to <a href="http://blog.suepops.co.uk/">here</a>) sent me.<br />
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Just in love with the red and turquoise! It killed me to open it ...... so I started first with the card.<br />
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How beautiful is it! This will be framed once I take my heart decorations down!<br />
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I love praline .... and I will be saving these as a special treat once lent is over! I can't wait!<br />
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Some pretty tissues and a lovely lip balm. Oh this lady knows me!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Lex97U7yI/UR5rLTeQF9I/AAAAAAAADgc/HuV6Hlc0gAQ/s1600/DSCF0667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Lex97U7yI/UR5rLTeQF9I/AAAAAAAADgc/HuV6Hlc0gAQ/s640/DSCF0667.JPG" width="640" /></a>A lovely little handbag mirror in a cute drawstring bag.<br />
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A gorgeous tiny handmade note book that I filled with love vouchers for Craig and gave to him. Also a lovely heart shaped pom pom that Sue has been busy making for a lovely hanging mobile. <br />
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A beautifully crafted needle felted heart brooch. I adore this, I really do! I am going to put it onto my coat! Oh and see the cookie in the back ground!<br />
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A large stuff heart to hang with some lovely beaded and ruffled detail.<br />
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And my favourite thing. A hanging paper heart that twirls happily on my kitchen shelf with some lovely hanging buttons. I felt so treated!!!!<br />
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My house is so very hearty! Every where you go there are heart things hanging from shelves! <br />
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How lovely!<br />
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I think <a href="http://all4meggymoo.blogspot.co.uk/">All4meggymoo </a> did a great job! And I do hope Sue likes her gifts!<br />
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Kate xxxx<br />
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-79421838246939589552013-02-09T06:02:00.002-08:002013-02-11T22:56:47.226-08:00Craigs lovely PhotosSo in my last post I mentioned the beautiful hour I spent waiting for him in a cafe gorging on carrot cake.<br />
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For Christmas I brought him a super duper DSLR camera and along side it brought him an experience at a wildlife sancturay where he would get the chance to photograph birds of prey (another passion of his).<br />
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The results were hundreds of lovely photos. <br />
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I hope you don't mind but I wanted to share a few of my favourites. I hope you like them too.<br />
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Before we set off he had a mini rehersal with our own chickens. I just love the rich colours of this photos. Its so warm and clear.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMJweccZL0w/URZVIp0QQxI/AAAAAAAADdQ/CTB9aAVIGEo/s1600/DSCF0395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMJweccZL0w/URZVIp0QQxI/AAAAAAAADdQ/CTB9aAVIGEo/s640/DSCF0395.JPG" width="640" /></a>You'll have to forgive me but I am not sure of the names of the birds but this photo caught my eye as the owl just sinks into the tree. It's so camaflauge and with a little bit of cropping I think this would be a lovely print. <br />
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A close up of the own above. This time with a bit of gree moss and ivy to help him stand out a bit.<br />
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Although not a bird of prey, craig likes all birds! I love this shot. Somehow it makes me feel full of freedom. I love the empty sky the little bird is just about to adventure into. <br />
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Another Owl. This time a gremlin looking Owl. Grey body, bright yellow eyes and a lush green backdrop. Wait until you see the next one .......<br />
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Wow - what a close up. I don't know whether its cute, or scary ..... still it's such a good photo!<br />
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Another lovely close up, this time with some brilliant shadows and light bits. I really love this one. I think the little bits of straw give the picture some depth as well.<br />
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I hope you liked them too. It's not bad I think for a starter. I was so proud of him!<br />
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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-68768224094405461132013-02-09T05:47:00.001-08:002013-02-09T05:47:11.911-08:00Four things that have made me happy #5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">1. A precious hour in a cafe. Just me, a pot of tea, delicious <span style="font-size: large;">carrot cake</span> and my <strong>new book</strong>. Total <em><strong>recharged batteries</strong></em> and the perfect way to spend an hour waiting for my husband (I will do a special post to let you know what he was up to while I was waiting!).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">2. Freshly painted, glossed, tiled and carpeted hall/landing/stairs. My <strong>dad</strong> has been so kind to us spending time helping. I am so happy with the results. But it isn't half stressful when there is decorating going on. We don't even have that much "stuff" in the hall but it seems to still effect every room. I finished work early yesterday and spent a good three hours <span style="font-size: large;">spring cleaning</span> the home and getting it back to normal. Today I feel so nice about my house again! I am sure you all know what I mean!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">3. A <span style="font-size: large;">thrifty book</span> find. After enjoying Starter for Ten and One Day I couldn't resist another David Nicholls book. I am already at the point of not being able to <strong>put it down</strong>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">4. Some bargains in Aldi for the garden. An apple, peach and cherry tree (Craig is currently planting them) and some seeds for when it gets a bit less chilly. I brought a few mixed packets as I love the surprise. I can't wait to see what comes up from the <strong>nostalgic Cottage Garden</strong> packet, or the bright Summer Long mix. I have treated myself to some primrose plugs, <em><span style="font-size: large;">hollyhock</span></em> seeds and some Chinese Lantern bulbs things week.</span> GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-25488190249927665852013-02-02T03:28:00.002-08:002013-02-02T03:28:30.636-08:00Week 3 & 4 (52 Weeks of Happy)<div class="ecxMsoNormal">
I missed a week …. Not because I wasn’t happy …. I was ….. just busy.</div>
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Week 3; No photos .... just some love for my friends!</div>
<ol>
<li>Having encouraging texts from a sunshine of a work friend .... Lisa! And a precious and stolen half an hour coffee with a friend I don't see very often. </li>
<li>My Dad sparing the time to paint and gloss my hallway.</li>
<li>Working on a project with my Mum. We are a great team .... a dream team!</li>
<li>A husband who is full of kind words and empowerment!</li>
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Now onto the less soppy and more interesting (for you I mean!) week 4 .....<br />
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1. A lovely <a href="http://www.thorntons.co.uk/product/Yummy-Offers/2-for-10/Youre-So-Fabulous-165g/pc/2246/c/2398/www.thorntons.co.uk/product/Yummy-Offers/2-for-10/Youre-So-Fabulous-165g/pc/2246/c/2398/537.uts">box of chocolates</a> from my hubby, with a treasured note inside! We have shared one a night before bed. They are scrummy yummy! Mmmmmm.<br />
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2. Using up some left over sock yarn for a shopping bag (taken from the <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Granny-Chic-recipes-inspiration-handmade/dp/0857831550/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1359804163&sr=1-1">Granny Chic</a> book). I keep teasing Craig that I making it him as a man bag ... obviously I am not, it's just funny! I think I am going to keep it to collect all the plastic bags in. I love a bit of organising!<br />
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3. Practising the ripple technique thanks <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/neat-ripple-pattern.html">Attic24 </a>for a planned housewarming present! My sister has just brought a house .... about 10 mins walk from me. And I want to make her something special. So I am trying different things out to make sure I get it "just right".<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cute-Easy-Crochet-Nicki-Trench/dp/1907563067/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1359804144&sr=8-3">A new book!</a> Yippppppeeeeee! I am now going to love you and leave you while I enjoy a coffee and some lovely browsing through each page of this delightful book. <br />
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xxxxxxx<br />
GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-46802356298286485042013-01-22T06:53:00.001-08:002013-01-22T06:53:09.600-08:00SwimathonIn an effort to become a better and fitter person I have signed up <a href="http://www.swimathon.org/">Swimathon 2013</a>. <br />
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The last three weeks at the gym and pool have been brilliant. I have left feeling healthier and full of good little endorphins. All I needed was a challenge other than to be thinner. One that I couldn't get out of. One that needed a bit of commitment. <br />
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In a bid to challenge myself I decided it would have to be something swimming related. I am good at endurance, but a bit of a water baby .... better in the water than on land. I saw Swimathon adverts going up last week and decided this was the one.<br />
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So, on April the 28th at 1200 I will be doing a 2.5k marathon .... 100 lengths to be precise. All for a fantastic cause ... <a href="http://www.mariecurie.org.uk/en-gb/fundraising-volunteering/great-daffodil-appeal/?gclid=CK6anLKZ_LQCFWbKtAodMCEAGA">Marie Curie Cancer Care</a>. <br />
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Today was my first proper session with the Swimathon in mind. I had 45 minutes and thought it best to just see how much I could do. I managed 50 lengths in that time. I was certainly most pleased! That means I am already half way there all by myself. I just need to now get up to 60, then 70, then 80 and so on .... <br />
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I don't really want to bore you with all of the little updates every time I get back from the pool. But just wanted to let you know I am doing it. And if at all you feel like you would like to sponsor me, then <a href="http://my.artezglobal.com/personalPage.aspx?registrationID=414686&langPref=en-CA">here is the link</a>. <br />
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Also if anyone has any good ideas to help raise that little bit extra I would love to her them.<br />
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Kate xxx<br />
GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-88791325030426703192013-01-20T04:38:00.002-08:002013-01-22T06:53:21.360-08:003/52<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Four things that have made me happy this week.....<br />
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1. Making decopage hearts for next weeks craft fair.<br />
2. Finally being able to make snow prediction forcasts with my Michael Fish magnets.<br />
3. Spring inside, winter outside.<br />
4. Hooking hearts whilst watching Little Women. GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-85684264240188198822013-01-20T04:18:00.003-08:002013-01-20T04:18:56.549-08:00Chickens in the SnowThey didn't like it, one bit.<br />
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I think they are still missing the black chicken. <br />
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But as for the snow. They were most horrified!<br />
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It took almost ten minutes to encourage them out of their home and out for a little exercise. <br />
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Ten minutes encouragement and lots of treats!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9GoAzwp8Q8/UPvZNPE4VjI/AAAAAAAADak/j5GrBFceAXA/s1600/DSCF0332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9GoAzwp8Q8/UPvZNPE4VjI/AAAAAAAADak/j5GrBFceAXA/s640/DSCF0332.JPG" width="640" /></a>Its funny just having three again. Don't they look like a gang! Such posers!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FxGWySLTaxQ/UPvZOxgxqBI/AAAAAAAADa0/KFjJi-WzRUw/s1600/DSCF0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FxGWySLTaxQ/UPvZOxgxqBI/AAAAAAAADa0/KFjJi-WzRUw/s640/DSCF0336.JPG" width="640" /></a> I couldn't miss the opportunity to also take a shot of Derek who also looked most unhappy.<br />
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And as for my bedroom view .... wow.<br />
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I just had to go up and explore the fields.<br />
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Slight snowdrift issue ....but we soon got over it!<br />
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Up the hills we went. Like kids again.<br />
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A beautiful chance to take some lovely photographs. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OWIoLRVGEfs/UPveqR4oOQI/AAAAAAAADb4/nvk8MfOQUbY/s1600/DSCF0359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OWIoLRVGEfs/UPveqR4oOQI/AAAAAAAADb4/nvk8MfOQUbY/s640/DSCF0359.JPG" width="640" /></a>Underneath the branches.<br />
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We finally reached the hills. After getting quite lost in the woods.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JMqJ9kZT1y4/UPvesGDf9zI/AAAAAAAADcI/j-8zEyIiW-c/s1600/DSCF0344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JMqJ9kZT1y4/UPvesGDf9zI/AAAAAAAADcI/j-8zEyIiW-c/s640/DSCF0344.JPG" width="640" /></a>Two cows out in the field. Looking a lot braver than my three little chickens at home.<br />
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-49251675514096223302013-01-18T01:40:00.000-08:002013-01-18T01:40:32.504-08:00Lovely Books<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I know most of us have already got this book ..... but it is delightful so!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_JKA87VqzJQ/UPkV2NyQudI/AAAAAAAADZM/K881E1zGW0k/s1600/DSCF0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am enjoying a snow day .... with lots of cups of tea.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I was going to treat myself to this book last year. But knew that the person who knew me the most would get it me as a Christmas gift.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My sister brought it me.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dfjaXfOgY8E/UPkV1GeMVhI/AAAAAAAADZE/8W1WxshKHoI/s1600/DSCF0153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dfjaXfOgY8E/UPkV1GeMVhI/AAAAAAAADZE/8W1WxshKHoI/s1600/DSCF0153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dfjaXfOgY8E/UPkV1GeMVhI/AAAAAAAADZE/8W1WxshKHoI/s640/DSCF0153.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Sadly one of our chickens died yesterday. He couldn't with stand the drop in temperature. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQXes2RDADY/UPkV0OfLWGI/AAAAAAAADY8/1xPZVzeMZYM/s1600/DSCF0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQXes2RDADY/UPkV0OfLWGI/AAAAAAAADY8/1xPZVzeMZYM/s1600/DSCF0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQXes2RDADY/UPkV0OfLWGI/AAAAAAAADY8/1xPZVzeMZYM/s640/DSCF0152.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My friend Jill gave me the powers to move the body out of the cage but standing and holding my hand. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSjwQ4XoSA0/UPkVwhaElQI/AAAAAAAADYk/pLUQusk4x4w/s1600/DSCF0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSjwQ4XoSA0/UPkVwhaElQI/AAAAAAAADYk/pLUQusk4x4w/s1600/DSCF0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSjwQ4XoSA0/UPkVwhaElQI/AAAAAAAADYk/pLUQusk4x4w/s640/DSCF0148.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Another perfect book.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUzhwy8VAe4/UPkVvhP8AvI/AAAAAAAADYc/tTYADC-UoGs/s1600/DSCF0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUzhwy8VAe4/UPkVvhP8AvI/AAAAAAAADYc/tTYADC-UoGs/s1600/DSCF0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUzhwy8VAe4/UPkVvhP8AvI/AAAAAAAADYc/tTYADC-UoGs/s640/DSCF0146.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This time from my husband.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_w-5T_K1bw4/UPkVumz_DlI/AAAAAAAADYU/vQj4jbyug0c/s1600/DSCF0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_w-5T_K1bw4/UPkVumz_DlI/AAAAAAAADYU/vQj4jbyug0c/s1600/DSCF0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_w-5T_K1bw4/UPkVumz_DlI/AAAAAAAADYU/vQj4jbyug0c/s640/DSCF0145.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">So many ideas and all achievable!</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utdmVFninqQ/UPkVteknPeI/AAAAAAAADYM/eqF4uefve4o/s1600/DSCF0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utdmVFninqQ/UPkVteknPeI/AAAAAAAADYM/eqF4uefve4o/s1600/DSCF0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utdmVFninqQ/UPkVteknPeI/AAAAAAAADYM/eqF4uefve4o/s640/DSCF0144.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I love my husband. I love my sister. I love my friend. R.I.P Black Chicken. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">xxxxxxxxxxx</span>GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-37439103095472131232013-01-13T01:37:00.000-08:002013-01-13T01:41:37.055-08:00Business CardsHellooooo :)<br />
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Just a brief post before I embark on a super creative day with my lovely <a href="http://eandzmake.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/hello-everyone-well-this-is-very-very.html">friend Jill</a>. <br />
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This week I had some more exciting post (in addition to the stuff I told you about in <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/packages-postcards-letters-dead-heading.html">this post</a> yesterday). I received my business cards.<br />
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I am so proud of the tiny bits of cards. Despite the fact I am not going into business or anything, its just that sometimes I find I really could do with one. Sometimes I get asked to make bits a bobs by friends and family. Or I get chatting about blogging and need something with the link on. I also need something to write prices on when I do craft fairs. <br />
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So ........ here they are ...........<br />
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Simple, but informative. I didn't spend a lot - just £2.50 for 250 so for the cost I am quite pleased with them. I also splurged on a stamp .... which I have to keep stopping myself from stamping every where .... it is really cool. <br />
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Yesterday I got to use them.<br />
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After my aunt visited from Christmas and saw my <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/christmas-tree-table-runner-ta-dah.html">little table runner</a> she asked me to make one for her. So I used it as an opportunity over the Christmas break to start learning some new quilting skills. <br />
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I really enjoyed making the table runner and due to immense concentration and excitement I didn't really photograph all the way through. I just quickly took a couple of snaps once finished.<br />
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Reds and greens, with lots of lines, in the ditch quilting and some fun little reindeer's (a red sequin for Rudolf's nose or course). <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0dLWOnL9zg/UPE5TmTA2hI/AAAAAAAADXQ/XafT2iFy_g4/s1600/DSCF0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0dLWOnL9zg/UPE5TmTA2hI/AAAAAAAADXQ/XafT2iFy_g4/s640/DSCF0241.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here is my first proper commissioned sewing piece .... all bagged up with a business card. I felt like a true professional crafter!<br />
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It feels very fitting that after blogging about quilting for family that I point you in this direction ... <a href="http://lazydaisyjones.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/my-darling-nan-if-only-you-could-have.html">a beautiful post by a beautiful blogger.</a> Lazy Daisy talks about how she restores a quilted cushion her Grandma made. You won't be disappointed!<br />
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Kate x<br />
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-72717159570038886072013-01-12T02:17:00.001-08:002013-01-12T02:17:29.544-08:00Packages, postcards, letters & dead heading!<br />
It is a great thing this 52 Weeks of Happy. I love reading everyone's happy blogs. Short and sweet overdose of happiness .... the origns come from this <a href="http://www.jenlittlebirdie.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/52-weeks-of-happy-152.html">lovely post</a> ... its amazing how things can spread!Happiness can go a long, long way.<br />
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Here is mine for the 2nd week of 2013.<br />
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1. My favourite flower still going strong. I thought the last flower was about to die when all of a sudden two new buds popped up. Cyclamen's were apparently my Grandma's favourite flower, and for some reason I can keep them going and going ... this one was brought me as a gift in August. I think the trick is to put in a cool but bright place, water from the bottom (not too much, but never let go dry) and to dead head on a daily basis!<br />
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2. A lovely bundle of vintage fabric. I order these as a treat from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Bobobun">Bobo Bun's Etsy site.</a> She has an offer on until the end of Jan. The fabrics were beautifully pressed, tied up with string and then wrapped in lovely tissue paper. A treat to come home to after a long day at work!<br />
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3. A card of my Granny. Post is simply a happy thing in itself. But when it's off your Granny ..... well that's happy beyond happy!<br />
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4. Some new postcards to sit nicely by my spice shelf. We brought these way back in September and I misplaced them. I am so happy they are now firmly on the wall so I can enjoy them.<br />
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Kate xGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-10127556315567074112013-01-05T10:43:00.000-08:002013-01-05T10:44:43.592-08:001/52 Weeks of Happy<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ihaQaIYUZok/UOhyUjLsONI/AAAAAAAADWQ/DPhxPWcfkCs/s1600/mind+body+and+soul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ihaQaIYUZok/UOhyUjLsONI/AAAAAAAADWQ/DPhxPWcfkCs/s640/mind+body+and+soul.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Four photographs to celebrate the first week of 2013.<br />
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1. Two fantastic walks up the Chase ... and a bit of deer spotting.<br />
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2. Delightful crochet flowers patterns and getting a deep sense of
satisfaction when complete.<br />
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3. Another crochet photo ... however, as much as I enjoyed crocheting up
these hearts I would prefer a photo of me swimming (practically a no-no) as I
have enjoyed swims early morning before work and before bed. Blissful.<br />
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4. Bargains .... 3 bulbs of hyacinths for £1 which I places next to my Amaryllis.
I love waiting for bulbs to pop. What is the fun of buying already popped
ones???!!!!<br />
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This week has been lovely. Full of optimism and tidying ... and not just the
house. Mind body and soul too. <br />
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Happy New Year.<br />
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xxx<br />
GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-39478491494152942222012-12-31T04:01:00.001-08:002012-12-31T04:02:01.802-08:00100th Post - last one of 2012 - what a year!!!Today is the last day of the year when I found my love for crafting. And coincidentally it is the 100th post of the this little blog which I have enjoyed soooo much.<br />
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I thought it would therefore be best spending my 100th post, and the last one of the year, reminiscing on the journey I have made by celebrating all the ta-dah moments over the past year! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mirw2_C62Uc/UOF5tmZVTzI/AAAAAAAADQ8/BqqW8yccFNc/s1600/913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mirw2_C62Uc/UOF5tmZVTzI/AAAAAAAADQ8/BqqW8yccFNc/s400/913.jpg" width="400" /></a>I <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/no1-post-yipeeee.html">first posted</a> in May not really knowing where things were going to take me but I had discovered blogs like Attic24 as I was first learning to crochet and thought <em>"I could do that".</em> And I am so glad I did. Blogging has introduced me to a whole community ... not just online but also in my town. <br />
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Although I was very very ropey both in blogging and crocheting I made <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/for-perfect-and-clear-description-of.html">my first blanket</a>. For a baby, which sadly never came ... but without my new found hobbies I don't think I would have ever got through it. This blanket is now safely in a box with a few other little memories. <br />
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I then picked up the hook and yarn bug ever so quickly ....... I literally went mad for it!!! I made some <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/birthday-bunting-ta-dah.html">birthday bunting</a>, which now traditionally gets hung up on all of the families birthdays, some<a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/olymic-bunting-ta-dah.html"> olympic bunting </a>which me and my sister waved like crazy when we went to London 2012 (and is still strung in my car's back window). <br />
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These quicker projects gave me much needed breaks while I tried to complete my brightly coloured <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/ta-dah-vintage-stripe-blanket.html">vertical strip blanket</a>. This is now a much loved beach/picnic/chair cover blanket! A new family heirloom.<br />
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I must take a second out from the yarn ta-dah's and just salute the Queens Jubilee (wasn't it fantastic!!!!) with my <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/patriotic-felty-birds-tutorial.html">little Patriotic Felty Birds</a> which still hang with British pride in my kitchen and get the most attention from visitors! <br />
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While completing my first projects I also learnt how to knit. I didn't really pick it up as quickly or with as much enthusiasm as crocheting, but I did stick with it and I am glad I did. I started off with some easy projects and did a <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/scarf-ta-dah.html">sample scarf with some sneaky crocheted flowers</a> to hide the mistakes. My granny wore it every day we went out over the Christmas holidays and I am glad to say it looks alright! <br />
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In my knitting class everybody made a <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/doll-ta-dah.html">doll to send to Africa</a>, which I embraced and learnt a whole lot whilst making it. I definitely want to do some more charity knits in 2013. <br />
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I also made a little <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/mrs-tt-mouse.html">Mrs TT Mouse</a> which my sister-in-law took to Thailand as a good luck charm during her travels.<br />
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By this time, its was all clicking and boy was I on a crafting high .... a high I don't think will really ever go! I felt confident enough to start making things for the home and learnt to <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/tunisian-crochet.html">Tunisian crochet some arm covers and cushions</a> for our living room and a nice <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/08/beach-inspired-rug-ta-dah.html">beach inspired rug</a> to hide a stain on the carpet in our bedroom. <br />
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I started to use wool to make gifts as well .... <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/snood.html">scarfs and snoods</a> for friends and family, <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/baby-blanket-one-ta-dah.html">baby blankets</a> for <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/baby-stuff-2.html">new arrivals</a> and decorations and <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/felted-mouse-and-bag.html">felted bags and mice</a> for Christmas gifts. <br />
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For my birthday in September my husband also brought me a sewing machine .... I was too scared to touch it for weeks but as soon as I did I caught that bug as well .... just in time for Christmas. I made some lovely <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/advent-calander-ta-dah.html">little advent bags</a> for my mum and dad and in laws (as well as myself) and filled them with some little goodies to help with the build up to Christmas. I went to a couple of amazing workshops and learnt new skills and came out with some <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/stocking-making-workshop.html">festive stockings</a> which are now with my godchildren in Oz and a <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/christmas-tree-table-runner-ta-dah.html">Christmas Tree table runner</a> ..... which has inspired my first commissioned pieces; a table runner for my Auntie. I also have made the most out of <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/scrappy-christmas-bunting-and-scented.html">scraps with bunting and hanging tree decorations</a>.<br />
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Phew ..... I think I have covered the main bits! Wow what a year! What an achievement. <br />
<br />
Other than crafting I have had a nice year, a tough one, but a lovely one all the same. Some lovely holidays, new Friends, a weekly crafting circle to go to and our lovely chickens (in the picture is Jill .... the one that got away)! I have so much to be grateful for and would like to thank you all for taking my on the ride as well! You are all wonderful and lovely and inspiring!!!!!! Thanks!<br />
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So 2013 ....... a few goals.............<br />
<ul>
<li>Keep crafting and blogging and getting better!!!</li>
<li>Try some craft fairs (I have already booked on one at the end of the month) to raise some money for materials.</li>
<li>Read 12 books (one a month). I have already decided on six.</li>
<li>Try mediation.</li>
<li>Do a charity knitting project.</li>
<li>Loose some weight.</li>
</ul>
I am sure I will keep you posted along the way! <br />
<br />
Love and best wishes for 2013<br />
<br />
Kate aka Granny Taught Me To Crochet.<br />
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-62422947206157568872012-12-29T01:37:00.000-08:002012-12-30T00:40:04.413-08:00Scrappy Christmas Bunting and Scented Christmas Tree Decorations using scraps from the scraps) I had almost forgot to post about my thrifty delight that is "scrappy Christmas bunting".<br />
<br />
I was the most perfect-simple-oh-so-satisfying couple of hours I spent on the morning of Christmas Eve. <br />
<br />
I had a fair bit of joined up jelly roll strips from the Christmas Table Runner (if you haven't yet seen it .... <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/christmas-tree-table-runner-ta-dah.html">follow this link</a> ... I hope you like it! I am uber proud!) so carefully snipped out some triangles and then some plain fabric in festive green.<br />
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I then whipped up 10 flags and then raided my "pretty little things" (whilst humming <a href="http://youtu.be/pBQ-S6njQQw">this tune</a>) and added some cute little bells and charms that fell out of the most beautiful little Paperchase crackers I purchased in last years January Sales .... I knew they would come in use!<br />
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These little pretty things were tooooooo pretty to just tie on with any normal thread! I used my precious vintage roll of gold thread that I received from the lovely mum in a parcel she sent me during the Bloggy Blanket Chain (if you go and <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/blog-blanket-swap.html">check out this post</a> I did about it then you can follow the link to Mum's page .... she is so brilliant and does do a great job of looking after all of us bloggers!). <br />
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Anyways ..... what more fun could I be having ..... creating-Christmas-crafts!!!!<br />
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After using some lovely left over spotty red bias binding to join all the flags up I decided the wall in our kitchen could do with a little bit of jollying up .... so two tacks later (and a little help from Craig) our kitchen wall looked like it was celebrating Christmas too!<br />
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Ta-Dah!!!!!<br />
<br />
And if that wasn't enough fun for the morning!!! ..... There were scraps left from the scraps!!!<br />
<br />
So I made lots of little triangles and made some Christmas Tree Scented Tree Decorations!<br />
<br />
Oh so easy, oh so smelly, oh so lovely!<br />
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Firstly I got a bowl and put in Christmas smelling stuff ..... Cinnamon sticks, orange peels, mixed spice, cloves ..... etc .... your all Christmas loving peeps ..... you know the whiffs!<br />
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I mixed it together and took a sniff .... but being careful not to sniff too hard .... I didn't want to Christmas over-dose!<br />
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I then filled my little tree's with toy stuffing and and teaspoon of the smelly-stuff and then joined up the gap with a tree trunk!<br />
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These were used to wrap up little gift bags of homemade fudge to give to my guests coming in the afternoon for coffee and mince pies .... and they went down a treat!<br />
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So that was my little morning of sewing ..... ahhhhh .... it seems like so long ago ... I wish it was Christmas Eve again, everything is over so quickly when you grow up .... I guess it won't seem like a minute until the next one arrives though!<br />
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Thanks for stopping by.<br />
<br />
Love xxxxxxxxxxx<br />
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<em><strong>A Tutorial on how to make bunting. </strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>Cut long strips from various fabrics. Either all the same width (including your seam allowance) or at variant angles and widths (this is easier when your a beginner).</strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>Join the strips by placing two pieces the right side together and sewing a hem along the long edge. Keep adding a strip until you have the correct width. Then press the seams. </strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>Next use a template and cut out all of your flags (plus one triangle for the back - I used plain green fabric) from the new piece of stripey fabric you have just made. </strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>Then, place your front piece and back pieces together, the right sides facing in. Go around each of the triangles on your sewing machine, leaving the straight, top edge free.</strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>Turn all of your flags out the right way and iron them. I then trimmed the top edge as this was a little wonky now. </strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>Arrange onto your bias binding (there are some great videos on you tube if you want to know how to use it) and then zoom up the row of flags with your sewing machine.</strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>I then added some little trinkets on the bottom. You can add buttons on the binding in between the flags as this looks nice too.</strong></em><br />
<em><strong> </strong></em><br />
<em><strong>If you want to see a crochet bunting tutorial then check out this link to one of my previous posts where I made some </strong></em><a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/birthday-bunting-ta-dah.html"><em><strong>Happy Birthday Flags!</strong></em></a><br />
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**********************************************************************************GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-15126547856388008062012-12-26T01:07:00.002-08:002012-12-26T01:08:04.734-08:00Snowflake Swap Goddies!I feel so elated to finally be able to tell you what I got in my snowflake swap with <a href="http://moonstruckcreations.blogspot.co.uk/">Helen from Moonstruck Creations.</a><br />
<br />
When I received my swap a couple of weeks ago I put all the gifts under the tree and on Christmas eve transferred them into my stocking. It killed me not being able to open them!!! They were wrapped in the most adorable paper and there were so many exciting shapes to think about!!<br />
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The first thing I did very early on Christmas morning was to tip out my stocking onto the bed and get to opening up those goodies. <br />
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I had so delightfullllllllllllll snowflake window stickers which I loved! Plus a little light up snowflake .... which reminds me. I must put that in the window tonight!<br />
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<br />
A 2013 diary to keep me organised, some Christmas tissues, a cute compact mirror and lip gloss in the shape of a cupcake.<br />
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I also got a Yankee candle in my ultimate favourite Christmas scent!!! Again today I will burn it to carry on all the Christmas jolliness! Also I got the first chocolate item of the day. A little chocolate teddy bear. <br />
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So ....... for the final reveal....... the crocheted snowflakes!!!! ...........<br />
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Aren't they just lovely. I am so pleased with them. They have lived for a few hours on my welsh dresser, and are now hanging from the tree! <br />
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I love them, thank you Helen!<br />
<br />
xxxxx<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: yellow;"></span><br />
<br />
I do hope you all had a lovely Christmas day. I was sooo lucky and got spoilt rotten by my family, friends and husband. Too much stuff to even start..... from recipe and crafting books, knitted slippers and scarfs from my crafting friends, diamonds (oh yes Craig knows how to spoil me), fabrics and kitchen things ........ anyway .... I wish you a Merry Christmas and hope that you have a lovely day today and a great festive week.<br />
<br />
Love xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-25759887981933956322012-12-23T13:09:00.000-08:002012-12-23T13:09:56.554-08:00Star and Tree Christmas Garland Link<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://theroyalsisters.blogspot.com.es/2009/11/grandma-tree-tutorial.html">http://theroyalsisters.blogspot.com.es/2009/11/grandma-tree-tutorial.html</a><br />
<br />
Oh what a lovely tutorial!<br />
<br />
So quick and satisfying ... great for last minute garland gifts!<br />
<br />
xxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-29347526748071287422012-12-21T01:42:00.004-08:002012-12-23T00:32:01.074-08:00Kate's Christmassy-Boozy-Ginger-Truffles
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<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heat 300g of milk chocolate, a big glug of advocaat, a small
pot of double cream and two teaspoons of ground ginger in a pan. Stir all the
time and don't let boil. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pour into a container and let it set in a cool place.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once set use a teaspoon to scoop out a ball of the mixture
and roll quickly in the palm of your hand. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Then roll again onto a plate with your desired covering. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have used sugar crystals, c</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">oca powder and w</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">hite chocolate shavings.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Will keep in the fridge for a few days. Perfect to make in
advance of a Christmas party!</span></div>
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-8350320171550022102012-12-21T01:31:00.000-08:002012-12-21T01:31:04.854-08:00Christmas Tree Table Runner - TA - DAH!!!!!
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Over the past few weeks I have been working on a Christmas
Quilted Table Runner. Since I have started learning how to sew it has always
been my aim to learn how to quilt. I saw the workshop advertised on the lovely
</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/LichfieldSewingShop"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lichfield <em>Sewing Shop</em> facebook page</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and signed up there and then. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After going to the </span><a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/stocking-making-workshop.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">stocking workshop</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> and enjoying it so
much, and even coming home feeling inspired to go on and produce more and more stockings
I was confident that this was the start of a beautiful quilting relationship.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So to start .... we joined 6 strips of delicious red fabric
together and then six green strips of fabric.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYnI6uZmmTY/UNQh5BLTrCI/AAAAAAAADLQ/1CgBdv-ZWk0/s1600/IMAG1932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYnI6uZmmTY/UNQh5BLTrCI/AAAAAAAADLQ/1CgBdv-ZWk0/s640/IMAG1932.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was my favourite bit!!!! I loved the easiness (remember
I am a beginner!!!) of zooming up and connecting AmAzInGlY gOrGeOuS strip of
fabric to another AmAzInGlY gOrGeOuS strip of fabric. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZU_3xKVWkbE/UNQh6ZfQh1I/AAAAAAAADLY/EFSWVFwmcFw/s1600/IMAG1933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZU_3xKVWkbE/UNQh6ZfQh1I/AAAAAAAADLY/EFSWVFwmcFw/s640/IMAG1933.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I spent that particular
half an hour in sewing shop paradise! I mean who can blame me .....</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuwy_Na8E3s/UNQh7tdwgoI/AAAAAAAADLg/qvKJCW6FeDU/s1600/IMAG1934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuwy_Na8E3s/UNQh7tdwgoI/AAAAAAAADLg/qvKJCW6FeDU/s640/IMAG1934.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once I had pressed the seams I cut out lots of Christmas
tree triangles out of my new stripy pieces of fabrics. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0dk2fg8gt-8/UNQh-BMrsJI/AAAAAAAADLw/22rJcQKUuDg/s1600/IMAG1937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0dk2fg8gt-8/UNQh-BMrsJI/AAAAAAAADLw/22rJcQKUuDg/s640/IMAG1937.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then it was onto the
slightly harder stage two where I cut out all of the white fabric joining bits.
Followed by the even harder, and must concentrate, part of joining my Christmas
trees with the white fabric bits. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uVyBSQe87qI/UNQh-9oSxsI/AAAAAAAADL4/jQDPQv8EqnM/s1600/IMAG2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uVyBSQe87qI/UNQh-9oSxsI/AAAAAAAADL4/jQDPQv8EqnM/s640/IMAG2020.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then some more pressing. Does anyone else love the smell of iron and fabric? No, just me then??</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_ZiF8HPrnY/UNQh8ycZS7I/AAAAAAAADLo/8evYj4eq_ng/s1600/IMAG1935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_ZiF8HPrnY/UNQh8ycZS7I/AAAAAAAADLo/8evYj4eq_ng/s640/IMAG1935.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This took me to the end of the day and I scheduled in to come back and finish it off once I had broken up for work. Plenty of time to admire those lovely pieces of fabric and soak up all the different things I had learnt. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On Monday I returned feeling confident I would be able to complete at home (guided by the wonderfully provided instructions of course!). All I needed was to go back to the shop for a touch of the magic rotary cutter to straighten up my edges and a little fill of <em>Sewing Shop</em> lurveee .... a debate of</span><a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/2012/12/christmas-wreath-ta-dah.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Lucy's Festive Crocheted Wreath </span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and a comparison of husband present buying mishaps. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At home, I had got the bug big time. Monday night was spent adding the trunk details and final white border.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NQdxaF6EuM/UNQiAG8SX6I/AAAAAAAADMA/sJU5VFaVze8/s1600/IMAG2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NQdxaF6EuM/UNQiAG8SX6I/AAAAAAAADMA/sJU5VFaVze8/s640/IMAG2021.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And then it was onto the bit I had been waiting for....... QUILTING!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My kitchen floor became my workbench and the rest of the room was transformed into hazardous amalgamation of flying pins and steaming irons as I joined the wadding and backing fabric onto my lovely Christmas tree scene!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MX2wTgYhB1o/UNQiBJtDsaI/AAAAAAAADMI/eUxYvQEM9ZU/s1600/IMAG2022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MX2wTgYhB1o/UNQiBJtDsaI/AAAAAAAADMI/eUxYvQEM9ZU/s640/IMAG2022.jpg" width="404" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then was the fun bit ..... sewing it all together! After much debate with my better half we decided on vertical lines all over. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X6-42G4XS98/UNQiB03UcMI/AAAAAAAADMQ/7__MWBzbd9w/s1600/IMAG2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X6-42G4XS98/UNQiB03UcMI/AAAAAAAADMQ/7__MWBzbd9w/s640/IMAG2024.jpg" width="426" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A couple of hours later, two broken needles and a few horizontal additional lines later I was the owner of a ooooo soooooo lovely (unbinded) quilt. I felt like squealing with excitement, and my husband was pretty chuffed too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I rewarded myself with a little snowball and a nice early night!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next morning I was all charged up ready to bind the quilt with my red spotty bias binding. I didn't want to make the usual mistake of just s"eeing what would happen without thinking about it first" ..... so I did a bit of research on youtube. I found this </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPakMj6XPUY"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">fantastic video</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> which I had on pause as I went round corner by corner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After loosing two needles to the thickness of the quilt, I made the correct decision to add a thicker needle - and it paid off ... the mitered corners were pretty hefty!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I conclude, after a journey of blood (nasty pins), sweat and tears, sheer pride and gleeful joy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Drum roll please ....... drdrdrdrdrdrdrdrdrdrdrdr........</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">TA-DAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s22CsSo8EVI/UNQiC0ivQsI/AAAAAAAADMY/cxqNxGu5Kq0/s1600/IMAG2046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s22CsSo8EVI/UNQiC0ivQsI/AAAAAAAADMY/cxqNxGu5Kq0/s640/IMAG2046.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">My proudest blogging ta-dah to date.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">A scrummy quilted table runner. Not bad for a first go, huh?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Don't you just love the fabrics??? I think my favourites are the nordic red and white strip, the spotty green one and the holly piece. Luscious!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6fAMmVlxWHE/UNQiFWWRZbI/AAAAAAAADMo/1-eo-YkkGlQ/s1600/IMAG2050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6fAMmVlxWHE/UNQiFWWRZbI/AAAAAAAADMo/1-eo-YkkGlQ/s640/IMAG2050.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">One last look and then I will have to go ... </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iDGG8suZv8/UNQiEJzYPFI/AAAAAAAADMg/jlpQUmkLcVQ/s1600/IMAG2047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--iDGG8suZv8/UNQiEJzYPFI/AAAAAAAADMg/jlpQUmkLcVQ/s640/IMAG2047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Ahhhh, a lovely <em>satisfied foot</em> photo! I will now find a lovely place to put it. Hearth? Coffee Table? or Dining Table? I am sure it will travel with me to a fair few places over the next week or two.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Thanks for reading, and all of your continued lovely comments and I'll speak soon xxxxxx</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Kate xx</span></div>
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-79947879002842521072012-12-20T00:57:00.000-08:002012-12-20T00:57:46.221-08:00Go on .... have a go.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n9MzwhrQ7BE/ULnCagi1DfI/AAAAAAAADC0/tLdMqF7jjfE/s1600/IMAG1874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n9MzwhrQ7BE/ULnCagi1DfI/AAAAAAAADC0/tLdMqF7jjfE/s640/IMAG1874.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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An hour to spare?</div>
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Beautiful Yarn?</div>
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Some beads and a bell?</div>
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...... <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/bauble-decoration.html">http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/bauble-decoration.html</a></div>
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xxxxxx</div>
<br />GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-49745132224976698732012-12-18T00:22:00.000-08:002012-12-18T00:22:08.993-08:00Driftwood Christmas Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcnyQmZ2xm8/UMwzwSi-BFI/AAAAAAAADJs/dODbP7UEeRM/s1600/IMAG1994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gcnyQmZ2xm8/UMwzwSi-BFI/AAAAAAAADJs/dODbP7UEeRM/s640/IMAG1994.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So while I was busy decorating the living room, Craig set off to do the conservatory. <br />
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He went wild with filling vases with bauballs. Snowflaking the windows. Making the ledges look pretty. Dressing out second tree.<br />
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And last but not least dressing the <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/drift-wood.html">driftwood</a>.<br />
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Doesn't it look lovely. Not <a href="http://pinterest.com/gtm2crochet/drift-wood-christmas-tree/">what I had in mind</a>, but just lovely because he was so proud of it!<br />
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xxxxxxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-18146230289215131602012-12-15T00:52:00.000-08:002012-12-15T00:56:02.329-08:00Holidays are a-coming!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9MuCEY66gk/UMwz3zfb8oI/AAAAAAAADKc/jDvJTGIOHHQ/s1600/IMAG2004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W9MuCEY66gk/UMwz3zfb8oI/AAAAAAAADKc/jDvJTGIOHHQ/s640/IMAG2004.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Wahoooooooo I have officially broken up for Christmas. 19 days in total. I couldn't be more happy!<br />
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I had some holiday going spare so decided there couldn't be a nicer time to use it. <br />
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Last night I celebrated with a lovely glass (Craig's Granddad's old Polish glasses ... we have the whole set!) of Madeira wine. Mmmmmm it just chillaxed the blood ready for a much earned break! I snuggled up with my hubby and watched National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Such a funny film!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnR2lXhKzMk/UMwzn7YVYhI/AAAAAAAADI0/YlXrSUIyy88/s1600/IMAG1985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnR2lXhKzMk/UMwzn7YVYhI/AAAAAAAADI0/YlXrSUIyy88/s640/IMAG1985.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Last week helped on the Round Table Santa Sleigh, collecting money with charity. We knocked on ever door to tell the children (and grown ups) that Santa was coming. All the houses then rushed around getting on shoes and coats to then wait on the street listening to Santa's sleigh on its way, blasting out favourite Christmas songs. They then wave to him as he passes. <br />
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This is something that I loved when I was little, and I totally loved actually helping. It was so enjoyable and I had that many Merry Christmas Wishes I didn't know what to do with them! I simply Christmased Out with happiness! It was so exciting to watch children literally shake with glee as he passed and watch adult turn into kids for a few seconds (seriously some adults, me included, can be so drawn into these things, we turn into five year olds again).<br />
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I have been lucky enough to have 2 Christmas party's this week and all that hard work of homemade gifts has certainly paid off. I loved giving away my wrapped pressies to my bestest friends at work and Knitting Class. I also was the lucky receiver of some beautifully wrapped presents that are now taunting me from under the tree .... oh well, only 10 days to wait .... I can do it!<br />
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I also received my snowflake swap from the lovely Helen at <a href="http://moonstruckcreations.blogspot.co.uk/">Moonstruck Creations</a>. I couldn't believe it when I tipped them package over the sofa and all of this fell out ...........<br />
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Yipeeee ..... another thing I am going to have to wait 10 days for! I can't wait to show you what I got!<br />
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Although I wait in anticipation for the 25th of Dec, I have been sooooo lucky already. I mean just look at this beautiful card from my friend Lisa at work.... <br />
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And this gorgeous hand made card from my lovely friend Jill who goes to knitting with me. You should go see her <a href="http://folksy.com/shops/EandZmake">lovely shop</a> ... wish her happy birthday aswell ... its today!<br />
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Also this cute beyond cuteness; Ha - Pea - Christmas decoration my friend Nicki gave me so I would promise not to open her gift before the big day!<br />
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Also my oldest and dearest friend Charlotte included a crocheted star in her card, which I hung with love and lots of memories! I can't wait to see her over Christmas! She has just got engaged and we have soooo much to talk about!<br />
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So as you can see I have been busy deckin' the halls. I loved dressing the tree as always. I love getting out all my decorations I have collected over the year. Each year my mum got me, my sister and her, a decoration each in our stockings. And now I have moved out I have lots of Christmas memories each year to hang out on my own tree. I love the fact my tree has a mismatch of ornaments. No two are the same and I love standing by it looking at them deciding which one is my favourite today! <br />
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Here are the two which I admired most last night...<br />
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I brought this one for Craig last year which if you look closely is a vintage picture of a boy and girl looking at a deer. It reminds me so much of the fun we have <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/deer-watching-rut.html">watching deer on Cannock Chase</a>. <br />
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The red egg you can see hanging is a Polish Egg which Craig hangs up every year in memory of his Grandad. The photo really doesn't do it justice. It is a pretty, glittery thing of beauty.<br />
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So that's all for now. As I am off this week I would love to be a bit more of a blogger. So hopefully will catch up with you more over the week.<br />
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Have a merry lead up to Christmas, and remember its not too late to be good!<br />
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Kate xxxxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-77222321765708396342012-12-13T11:08:00.000-08:002012-12-13T11:08:31.749-08:00Felted mouse and bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have been having a ball. A ball with 100% wool. <br />
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My two little cousins are coming to spend Christmas with us and I was dying to use the felting wool I brought a couple of months ago and this was the perfect excuse. Two home made gifts!<br />
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Firstly I'll just allow you a couple of seconds to Oooooooooo, Mmmmmmmmm over the colours!<br />
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The little bag was made using a fandabbydosey pattern<a href="http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/pattern.php?id=5702&lang=en"> here</a> (if you haven't checked this site out you are in for a flippin treat!) I used the mobile pouch pattern and then have added a strap. Its idea for a little girls over the body bag.<br />
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Look at the sherberttie colours. I loved knitting with this yarn!!!!<br />
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Hanging on the tree ... and why not! Its Christmas!<br />
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Then there is this cheeky little fella.<br />
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I hope Ben likes him. I certainly do.<br />
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I used the pattern from my tutorial for a little knitted mouse. You can <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/07/mrs-tt-mouse.html">see it here.</a> <br />
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This was my first attempt at felting. I am certainly very pleased and would recommend you have a go too. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxGrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-78492556977802545292012-12-03T10:13:00.000-08:002012-12-03T10:13:44.786-08:00White Chocolate Penguins<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My own festive variation on chocolate mice.</div>
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Gently melt chocolate in a bowl above boiling water.</div>
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Sprinkle some Pretties (aka sugar strands) in a silicon ice tray. Mine is penguin shaped. And then fill with lovely metled white chocolate.</div>
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Leave to set in a cool place. </div>
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(lick out the bowl!)</div>
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Carefully pop out.</div>
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There we have it. White Chocolate Penguins with sugar strand wings.</div>
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Yummy.</div>
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<br />GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8197746407217320368.post-43112819741045144242012-12-01T10:32:00.001-08:002012-12-01T10:32:20.906-08:00Granny Knows BestEvery year my Granny has brought me a calender. <br />
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And even after all the glamour or my <a href="http://grannytaughtmetocrochet.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/advent-calander-ta-dah.html">little advent bags</a> I have to say, I love my granny's calenders the best.<br />
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This year the picture is a group of joyous carol singers.<br />
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Can you see the first door?<br />
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What about now?<br />
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Let see what is behind it .....<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx4SqXq37l8/ULnCj_6iF6I/AAAAAAAADDw/7ZGoHe9If-E/s1600/IMAG1889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx4SqXq37l8/ULnCj_6iF6I/AAAAAAAADDw/7ZGoHe9If-E/s640/IMAG1889.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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An angel. Ahhhh. <br />
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Today, after the joyous occasion of putting up my advent bags, and then putting them back up again (after they fell down) I though I would make the most of the free day.<br />
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I have wrapped and wrapped and wrapped. About a hundred gifts! I really do like wrapping presents but this year I was a little overwhelmed. <br />
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It was nice to lay everyone's presents out and see if we was missing anything, or god forbid, had forgotten anyone. But I am surprisingly organised this year, and only have a couple of stocking fillers left to get. So thumbs up all around!<br />
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The reason I wanted to get all the "shopping" stuff out of the way is so I can now chillax! And by chilling, I mean making. All I need to worry about is having fun making lots of Christmassy things!<br />
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I am going on a workshop to learn how to make a quilted table runner on Tuesday and also hope to make some hanging decorations too.<br />
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Hope your Christmas <strike>decorations</strike> oops I mean preparations are going okay. And just remember ....<br />
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Keep Calm and Jingle On! xxxxx<br />
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GrannyTaughtMeToCrochethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09004275397607377119noreply@blogger.com3