tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22091194432416039752024-03-06T01:06:50.619+00:00All you need is craftUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-64932739286339354572016-09-08T15:50:00.000+01:002016-09-08T15:50:03.860+01:00Me, my craft and the dreaded fatigue.So, my fatigue has been kicking my butt recently. I'm having to admit to myself that I cannot do all the things I want to do and, no matter how hard I want to push myself, this is ok.<br /><br />I've been keeping myself occupied with Pinterest research and have discovered some really lovely craft pages, which is always a bonus. All this research has inspired me to crochet some more clothes for myself and has given me lots of ideas for patterns of my own. So, whilst I may not be able to make when my energy is low, I'm still able to be creative :) <br />
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New project.</h4>
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Over the last few days I've made a start on a simple granny square bag pattern. It's nice and simple which means I don't have to concentrate too much and, because it's made in sections, the project can be broken down into manageable chunks - very important when you suffer with chronic fatigue.<br /><br />
Here are a few photos of my progress so far........<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9cHtsaXfttlB0huIwu-2pJYYOHaN84NKbAL0x7n6U61mFLqU26R5ieKtqCEIXzCa1j8AVDYITLyzpmxUZW6vi6GWHQ5LMpXa1RNnKiLcF1RZn4IzSKb6xMbpOgaiRjL3fJ1pgG1VrG4A/s1600/IMG_20160908_151834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9cHtsaXfttlB0huIwu-2pJYYOHaN84NKbAL0x7n6U61mFLqU26R5ieKtqCEIXzCa1j8AVDYITLyzpmxUZW6vi6GWHQ5LMpXa1RNnKiLcF1RZn4IzSKb6xMbpOgaiRjL3fJ1pgG1VrG4A/s320/IMG_20160908_151834.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This project is perfect for using up your yarn stash. You can choose and match as many or as few colours as you wish. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Rl4xTBoiq9YFtzW6VP-z27XPsFLqMwN_Wa2sl78RNNQciDCm9N4lzvbEbvQyFDMFEnGd7YiXTsH9THe5zBCqgZl4RIuW7_BRGU5lEdaDeTCecSDQW7DxbLttqeoGlPscGFBSdYkj_HA/s1600/IMG_20160908_151819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Rl4xTBoiq9YFtzW6VP-z27XPsFLqMwN_Wa2sl78RNNQciDCm9N4lzvbEbvQyFDMFEnGd7YiXTsH9THe5zBCqgZl4RIuW7_BRGU5lEdaDeTCecSDQW7DxbLttqeoGlPscGFBSdYkj_HA/s320/IMG_20160908_151819.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">General idea for the bag layout. The rectangles form the front and back whilst the granny squares form the sides and the treble stitch piece forms the base. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oEw_8YUbPDrLmbqgFA6fjkVxcQjQE7rW7Lqb1Vc57RdiRcJkMjvp2jNSsyVQ0Eh_YF1Cp4FTclkl3IIx6HEKUPCbjkQ2oQQDBkupj8N-at256IlVbeSx2WpuMtz6gaL0NAOL5Xkzk1E/s1600/IMG_20160908_151709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oEw_8YUbPDrLmbqgFA6fjkVxcQjQE7rW7Lqb1Vc57RdiRcJkMjvp2jNSsyVQ0Eh_YF1Cp4FTclkl3IIx6HEKUPCbjkQ2oQQDBkupj8N-at256IlVbeSx2WpuMtz6gaL0NAOL5Xkzk1E/s320/IMG_20160908_151709.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the simple granny square/rectangle pattern. Fun, easy to make but so effective. </td></tr>
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<h4>
Sixty Million Trebles project.</h4>
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For those of you that haven't heard, there is a new yarn bomb project on the street. The Sixty Million Trebles project is aimed at raising awareness of the estimated 60 million refugees worldwide. The idea is that one (treble) stitch equals one life. I am one of the many people who have so far joined the cause and hope that many more of you will join the team and help us to spread the word for this cause.<br /><br />The aim is to make (crochet or knit) one huge blanket (to include a minimum of 60 million treble stitches) that will be unveiled in London next Summer. The final blanket will be made up of lots of smaller blankets, each measuring 36" square. We are aiming to break the record for the largest handmade blanket in the world! This is where you lovely lot come in :)<br /><br />Can you crochet or knit? Do you know anyone else that can? Are you able to share the details of this project via your own social media profiles (whether that be a blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc)? As far as this project is concerned, the more the merrier!!<br /><br />After the record attempt is made, the individual blankets will be distributed to refugee camps and charitable organisations that support refugees throughout the world.<br /><br />You can find out more details <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/sixtymilliontrebles/?fref=ts" target="_blank">here</a> and see what the other group members have been making. You can also follow us on Twitter - @sixtymilliontre<br /><br /><br />Well, that's it from me today. I'm off to make myself a cuppa, put my feet up and continue with my granny square bag project.<br /><br />Thanks for reading,<br /><br />KnittyNora xx<br /><br /><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-51058796219572795372016-07-20T16:54:00.000+01:002016-07-20T16:54:54.766+01:00Recent makes and sewing plans for JulyHi!<br />
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So, as you all know by now, my blog posts can be a little sporadic. I'm not a fan of posting for the sake of it and prefer to wait until I have something to show you or have a specific topic I'd like to blog about. Today's post, as the title suggests, is all about what I've been making recently and my ever growing list of sewing plans.... becasue I'm kind, I've wittled this list down to just a couple of items :)<br />
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Here's what I've been making.........</h4>
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Unfortunately, I totally forgot to take nicer photos before I posted this little critter to my niece, Nancy, but here is a little picture of the amigurumi I made a couple of weeks ago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmEM026-8dGbT4IP1Sd-yAZfeO40ZPJafbwFnM6SdLM6AuzX6iVVCXhlKyAXFs3dDXFeN4dytpCWEKAJvevLJjtO3ttXXyKJvY56NNnhijFSCj54VE4RVB1mzIPzRQEEFX4tOSqZUOEw/s1600/IMG_20160613_131157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTmEM026-8dGbT4IP1Sd-yAZfeO40ZPJafbwFnM6SdLM6AuzX6iVVCXhlKyAXFs3dDXFeN4dytpCWEKAJvevLJjtO3ttXXyKJvY56NNnhijFSCj54VE4RVB1mzIPzRQEEFX4tOSqZUOEw/s320/IMG_20160613_131157.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Believe me, he looks a lot better up close. My sister has sent a few messages telling me how many compliments this little fella has received and has been asked if I sell my handmade items. The answer to the question, for now at least, is no. It feels great to know that so many people have been impressed by my handmade gift. They genuinely thought it had been bought from a shop.... high praise indeed, I guess...? :)<br />
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Next up.......<br />
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My hand knit tunic. This was a pattern I made up myself. Well, I adapted it from a very basic pattern that was posted on Kollabora. The original pattern was for the same style top except that it had been knit in two pieces that were later sewn together. I'm not a big fan of sewing seams...at all! And why do it when you can just knit in the round..?!<br />
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This knit was pretty straight forward and would make a great first project for those venturing into the world of knitting in the round. I shall be typing up the pattern details and posting them here soon, for those of you that fancy having a go. In the meantime, here is my finished tunic.......<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8s4XdddhAGYbquphsqjQx_XQgq-ZZbnjZDv_q_YMBoGsCAuXQiUHFXpd0BXHjg7TxKQXKkbvmKhbMn7evwHajANYBiJ-e-YTVHZ5a8F02zh_5f9jnNnay0aQbLId3bJZXgty_NiBDu9s/s1600/IMG_20160720_163644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8s4XdddhAGYbquphsqjQx_XQgq-ZZbnjZDv_q_YMBoGsCAuXQiUHFXpd0BXHjg7TxKQXKkbvmKhbMn7evwHajANYBiJ-e-YTVHZ5a8F02zh_5f9jnNnay0aQbLId3bJZXgty_NiBDu9s/s320/IMG_20160720_163644.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boatneck neckline works really nicely on this simple tunic</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9VWzR74EffrmKQD8jEq5nsS-7I3gxYViAJunO3UBNamiCmfwIUyWlUZaPujhj5j6QOat1GNh0YAYq-iBLmJFKeuIlB97DYfNMVRfDdsH_EoUVfPTO9uxBVN54M_CraN7U8ZB0F1PGbU/s1600/IMG_20160629_104046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9VWzR74EffrmKQD8jEq5nsS-7I3gxYViAJunO3UBNamiCmfwIUyWlUZaPujhj5j6QOat1GNh0YAYq-iBLmJFKeuIlB97DYfNMVRfDdsH_EoUVfPTO9uxBVN54M_CraN7U8ZB0F1PGbU/s320/IMG_20160629_104046.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing the contrast panel with a crocheted edge to help stop the fabric rolling. Simple finishing touches can make all the difference to the overall look. </td></tr>
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Next.......<br />
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I finally got round to finishing off the Mossa stitch cushion cover I'd be working on. Buttons have been sewn on and the cushion is now on the sofa with my other crocheted creations. I do love a crocheted cushion cover! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSMa0B15ZT6EAMVYHpd6TP5c-4WlWrl4OI3VuoCpXScRbdjsjW1oeHVXPg-i1JNtV8gdyWvXUip_8XMYk4dEe2aNwMWdKYORp7QBeErc97cVGlOj-YpTGAL3euiCPGFAcm6A3b7JJd-s/s1600/IMG_20160621_133534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkSMa0B15ZT6EAMVYHpd6TP5c-4WlWrl4OI3VuoCpXScRbdjsjW1oeHVXPg-i1JNtV8gdyWvXUip_8XMYk4dEe2aNwMWdKYORp7QBeErc97cVGlOj-YpTGAL3euiCPGFAcm6A3b7JJd-s/s320/IMG_20160621_133534.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h4>
Sewing, sewing and..... a bit more sewing!</h4>
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So, as you might probably have guessed, I've been doing a bit of sewing recently :)<br />
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My grand plans have been a bit hampered by my migraine episodes but, being the stubborn woman that I am, I haven't let this stop me planning for the days when I feel up to a bit of making. I've spent many an hour scouring the internet for patterns and design inspiration and have purchased some beautiful books. My most prized purchase has to be the Tomoko Nakamichi pattern books I gifted myself - Pattern Magic and Pattern Magic Stretch Fabrics.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-WCMz5C_sihlzfUgZWyP-UajKEGKYBlV2bSUT-O-KLIASul7pPHKMFugEG70_FhzCiGKmI0IMg7WnN0sqASzF1ckVnlazg1nk5Latc2l4bOjfbn8guR1kdCZIEBh-LX9oN2erT9e7s78/s1600/IMG_20160701_104319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-WCMz5C_sihlzfUgZWyP-UajKEGKYBlV2bSUT-O-KLIASul7pPHKMFugEG70_FhzCiGKmI0IMg7WnN0sqASzF1ckVnlazg1nk5Latc2l4bOjfbn8guR1kdCZIEBh-LX9oN2erT9e7s78/s320/IMG_20160701_104319.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I can't remember how I discovered these books but I'm so glad I did. The designs are absolutely stunning. I realise they may not be to everyone's taste but I am a HUGE fan. I am so enjoying reading these books and would love to make everything in them but think I will have to wait until I've developed my skills a bit more. Some of the designs look quite challenging but well worth the effort.<br />
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Here is the first pattern I've attempted.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJzK1tfZGIKk5tiRSG_g-qEfIe2Zs_WYeGmaYIJCKx5VP3nXjttKBAN8jl0WLG249VZY3y1FbFg7WfMCNYtrYG-09ZAe3WKwol797KPegoG8l5KTb0wi8yXPfgADyL3pETK07eNOdRxU/s1600/IMG_20160710_151207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJzK1tfZGIKk5tiRSG_g-qEfIe2Zs_WYeGmaYIJCKx5VP3nXjttKBAN8jl0WLG249VZY3y1FbFg7WfMCNYtrYG-09ZAe3WKwol797KPegoG8l5KTb0wi8yXPfgADyL3pETK07eNOdRxU/s320/IMG_20160710_151207.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QEAcR0f2ikoUgWvjyBtP6f-Z8Ff6WwmZEBm3xyg0nuv8sY7AL0tM2uWKPnltDCWwNYJ_q4mNUr6qchydApQdfC-yUGO2dVGc3ZcdrQcOoVVL1wsY3TV1JQ2vI8oMgUz4JEgmrpxDPRU/s1600/IMG_20160710_151140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QEAcR0f2ikoUgWvjyBtP6f-Z8Ff6WwmZEBm3xyg0nuv8sY7AL0tM2uWKPnltDCWwNYJ_q4mNUr6qchydApQdfC-yUGO2dVGc3ZcdrQcOoVVL1wsY3TV1JQ2vI8oMgUz4JEgmrpxDPRU/s320/IMG_20160710_151140.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This pattern for this piece is fairly straight forward. It works on the principle of using two long pieces of fabric that are sewn together to create a long rectangle with two short side seams for the bottom and one seam at the top to create a loop that you can tie anyway you want. The book provides a few pictures for inspiration but I had fun making up my own alternatives :)</div>
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Unfortunately, you'll have to wait for pictures of me wearing the finished item. I didn't want to post a picture of myself posing in front of the mirror so I'm waiting until a friend can help me out :)<br />
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Until then, here's a sneak peek at the jersey fabric I used for the pattern. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifD2EkoJj0b3hIENOotgomGdIy3HWRa2N9SI6P-MISnu2bwuUq9LR6dpHAGtBXFZDbHTesK7U_F7P93J_jvXIztZIFejkMSqxYFcMj-O1maStXCKDf4wrKhI7Gl24SUbAOO-_wjzK_e4E/s1600/IMG_20160710_142922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifD2EkoJj0b3hIENOotgomGdIy3HWRa2N9SI6P-MISnu2bwuUq9LR6dpHAGtBXFZDbHTesK7U_F7P93J_jvXIztZIFejkMSqxYFcMj-O1maStXCKDf4wrKhI7Gl24SUbAOO-_wjzK_e4E/s320/IMG_20160710_142922.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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Sewing plans for July.....</h4>
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I shall definitely be continuing to work my way through the Pattern magic books. I've also just bought myself the Madeleine skirt pattern from Victory Patterns. For this I need to buy some more denim fabric.<br />
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I also have to use this lovely lot of fabric.........<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kN2_x54w8QCnNQitjSUNZfnu6ZhSaYBUecXhgZ38Rt-Qy5V5TBsNYE-nImIEX4ZlnwDUsdYYYKohWY9MxGuMw7cb1l0rvwuLtWlbMsaqeZSdc8MT3OBcBx6y7Ca1T7gaZ7OxAo7bJzY/s1600/IMG_20160711_194722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kN2_x54w8QCnNQitjSUNZfnu6ZhSaYBUecXhgZ38Rt-Qy5V5TBsNYE-nImIEX4ZlnwDUsdYYYKohWY9MxGuMw7cb1l0rvwuLtWlbMsaqeZSdc8MT3OBcBx6y7Ca1T7gaZ7OxAo7bJzY/s320/IMG_20160711_194722.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm thinking of using the floral fabric (a bargain find at a local fabric stash sale) for a pattern I found on the Kollabora website. It's called the Lobelia tee, which you can find <a href="http://www.kollabora.com/supplies/lobelia-tee" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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The bumble bee fabric was purchased to make the Sophia top from Simple Sew's Sophia 2 in 1 pattern. I was going to make the whole outfit for a christening but unfortunately, due to feeling pants, I haven't been able to. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8txR7PhAMUZHapToWBENK_-794lv780FLIy-E_-wIjgDJJ6XCnnTc1eH8CN0q8wziRMvrTZ2IbX3wIFwVL4Jh4PqK9jeUHSN4AYUePNIiC344sYE0D4VWc9h3nF_W2Fii_e3pgVNtDk/s1600/1468263282355-699763500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8txR7PhAMUZHapToWBENK_-794lv780FLIy-E_-wIjgDJJ6XCnnTc1eH8CN0q8wziRMvrTZ2IbX3wIFwVL4Jh4PqK9jeUHSN4AYUePNIiC344sYE0D4VWc9h3nF_W2Fii_e3pgVNtDk/s320/1468263282355-699763500.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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Definitely going to have a go at this though. I had bought some denim fabric for the skirt but may end up making the whole thing in a totally different fabric altogether :) </div>
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Right, I think it's time for a brew. Thanks for stopping by to read my blog :) </div>
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Wishing you all a very happy and healthy week.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
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KnittyNora xxUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-6145274956435651072016-06-21T23:54:00.000+01:002016-06-22T00:15:52.391+01:00Sewing, sewing and .....a bit more sewingAs you may have already guessed, I have spent most of this week sewing. Trying out something a little different this time and posting a quick review of two pattern kits I had in my 'stash'. Not something I've done before but thought it might come in handy if, like me, you've never bought a prepacked sewing kit before.<br />
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Here goes......<br />
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After being a very sensible girl and reading the user manual, I was eager to get sewing with my new machine - a Singer Confidence. Cue a mad half hour of trying out all 50 stitches on a scrap of fabric and filling my bobbins ready to sew.<br />
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With my machine fully set up, I made a start on a pattern kit I bought for myself in the sales last year - the Sewing Bee sewing apron.</div>
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The pattern</h4>
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The pattern is graded at <i>intermediate </i>level. On the whole, I thought the pattern was pretty straight forward. There was no need for any fancy stitches (everything was sewn in a straight line) and the pattern pieces were printed on one large piece of fabric that you had to cut out (again, in straight lines). So, if you can sew and cut in a straight line, you're OK 😃<br />
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The instruction booklet was very user friendly. The instructions were easy to read and follow and I was able to sew the whole thing up fairly quickly. This was a really nice project to do over an hour or so. I started one evening by ironing and cutting out my pattern pieces whilst I had a bit of time to spare. I came back to the project the next day and did all of the sewing in about an hour (although I probably took a bit longer when I factor in my tea break :) ) </div>
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The only fiddly bit was threading the waist tie through the small channel at the top of the apron. I used a large safety pin that is fitted with a safety cap so that it wouldn't come open and stab me in the finger and/or get caught halfway (I initially used a normal safety pin.....which resulted in both of the above happening......oops!)</div>
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Pictures</h4>
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<h4>
Final thoughts</h4>
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This pattern kit was really easy to follow and I actually found it quite relaxing. The fabric pieces are nicely printed and the contemporary colour palette and pattern used are fun yet grown up. </div>
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I really enjoyed this pattern and am really happy with the finished article. I would definitely recommend it (if they can still be purchased!) and would happily buy another Sewing Bee pattern kit again.<br />
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Pattern review... 2</h4>
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The second pattern kit I tried out this week was from the people at The Makery. This kit, for a oversized purse, was given to me as a birthday present. The packaging, as you might expect from The Makery, was very contemporary, brightly coloured and made you want to open it immediately. The contents were beautifully wrapped and included everything I needed to make the purse, apart from a pair of scissors, some fabric glue, a pair of pliers (needed right at the end) and, of course, a sewing machine (although this wasn't really needed since everything could be hand sewn). </div>
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Thoughts on the kit....</h4>
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This pattern kit was...... well, a bit fiddly. The instructions weren't always the clearest and, if like me you like to think outside the box and try and be clever, you could easily find yourself having to back track and undo some of your hard work. There were one or two points in the pattern where I had to reread it several times to make sure I had got it right. Occasionally, you find that the written instructions don't give you all the detail you need and therefore you have to work out what to do next by looking at the drawings and hoping you haven't missed anything. Now, it may just have been me being a bit slow on this particular day but... I do think the instructions could do with a rethink.<br />
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The final few steps require a bit of patience, some glue and something pointy to squish (yes, that's a technical term!) the fabric into the purse clasp. Be careful not to put too much glue in the clasp channel. Even if you think you've only used a small amount, it soon spreads and can leave a bit of a sticky mess on the clasp. Nothing you can't clean up with a baby wipe....provided you've used the recommended fabric glue. </div>
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The finished article....</h4>
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The purse actually came out really well. Apparently, it looks 'really professional'...!! (Thanks husband, dearest). Obviously, I was quite chuffed with such a review. </div>
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I must admit that I prefer a purse with places to put things like bank cards and somewhere to keep my clubcard safe (other store cards available!) but this purse would be great for a night out. It looks great, has plenty of room for your lippy and some loose change and, I'm sure, will get you lots of compliments.<br />
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Would I recommend it as a gift idea....? Yes, i think I would. Just make sure the person you're buying it for is good at following instructions, has plenty of patience and a few hours to spare :)<br />
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<h4>
Final thoughts on sewing kits....</h4>
If you know someone who likes sewing, I would definitely recommend a sewing kit as a gift idea. I received two this year and both are for items that I will use and have fun making. So, be brave and try something new. And, whilst you're at it, why not buy one for yourself?! :) </div>
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So, that's my first pattern review post done. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this as a possible future feature. </div>
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I'm still busy with knitting and crocheting but looking to expand my sewing repertoire as I continue on my quest to be able to make all of my own clothes. It has long been an ambition of mine to be totally self sufficient where fashion is concerned and, with regards to knitwear, have stuck to this over the last few years. My improving sewing skills give me the oppurtunity to branch out into much fancier and ambitious outfits and is a new avenue for creative development which I am very excited to pursue.</div>
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Well, that's all from me for now. I am already plotting and planning my next blog post and looking forward to showing you what I'm making right now.<br />
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Come back soon to see what I've been up to!<br />
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Much love,<br />
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KnittyNora xx</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-16655834688097101342016-06-11T23:52:00.003+01:002016-06-11T23:52:59.084+01:00What I've been making<h4>
Hello! </h4>
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Finally finding the time to sit down and finish a blog post I started last week. I have been busy resting and enjoying the sunshine. </div>
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I thought I'd start this post with a few pics of the projects/ideas I'm currently working on and developing. </div>
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Current projects....</h4>
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I'm also working on a gift for my middle niece, who is soon to be two, and a knitted dress for myself called the Yoshimi dress. A rough outline for the dress was posted on the Kollabora website, of which I am a HUGE fan. Being me, I decided to develop the pattern and am currently in the process of writing up the instructions so that I can share them here, via my blog, and with the lovely people over at Kollabora.<br />
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I'm really enjoying the process of writing and developing patterns and am already working on some of my own, which I hope to be able to share with you at some point in the future. Much of what I've designed is specifically written for me and therefore my very specific measurements. Armed with various books on pattern design, I'm hopeful that I shall, at some point in the future, have the time (and patience) to begin developing my patterns for a range of sizes. Stayed tuned!<br />
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Other developments of a crafty kind...</h4>
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After much umming and ahhing, I finally got round to buying myself a new sewing machine. I am absolutely rubbish at buying things for myself. I have spent weeks looking at machines online and searching Ebay for a bargain (none to be found!). I mentioned that I was looking at machines on a well known supermarket website a couple of weeks ago. By the time I'd convinced myself to buy one, the one I had in mind was out of stock. Cue much annoyance with myself. </div>
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After a little sulk, I requested stock updates for the two sewing machines I was most interested in and tried to forget about it (easier said than done). A couple of weeks later (including several hours spent on Ebay), I received a very pleasing email from said supermarket chain. Cue a frantic 5 minutes of me logging into my online account, buying my new sewing machine and booking a delivery date. Two days later and my new arrival was here. I was one very happy lady :) </div>
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And here it is........</div>
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I've yet to use my new purchase. I've decided to be a very good girl and read the user manual very carefully before embarking on my first project (those of you that know me well will know how difficult I will find this :) ). I have several patterns that I'd love to have a go at, including a couple from the new Sewing Bee book.<br />
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I am absolutely in love with the pallazzo pants pattern featured in the book and ever so slightly tempted to make myself a jumpsuit (also featured in the book), if only to wear around the house :) </div>
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Come and find me on twitter....please.</h4>
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For those of you that didn't know, I have a twitter account :) I'm now using this to share photos of the projects I'm working on and to share my thoughts on the making process and what inspires me to make in the first place.<br /><br />I would love to hear from you and hope you'll pop over and follow me. My twitter tag is @LittleMrsCrafty.</div>
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That's enough from me for now. I'm off to make myself a cuppa and to work on my Yoshimi dress. </div>
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Wishing you all a very happy Sunday,</div>
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<br />KnittyNora xx<br /></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-63832935526423648082016-05-22T14:27:00.001+01:002016-05-22T14:27:45.053+01:00Spring cleaning my craft room Oh, I do love a good spring clean.<br />
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Making the most of some help from my husband, I've been reorganising of my little house. After some much needed storage was added to our livingroom, we began making our way through the clutter in our spare room (also known as my craft room). We moved into our house 5 years ago and, during this time, a lot has happened. What remains are boxes full of teaching resources, books we no longer read and a collection of random odds and ends that we have no use for. Cue a major declutter of shelves and cupboards, a trip to the tip and a rather generous donation to our local charity shops.<br />
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Whilst I had to leave the heavy lifting to P, I was able to dust and clean the shelves before putting back a much reduced and reorganised book collection. I'm finally able to put my boxes full of yarn on the shelves and love how clear and organised everything is.<br />
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We still have a few bits to organise and spare furniture to dismantle before putting in the loft, but it feels like we're on our way to having the room finished.....finally!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDyznbaT4Hy-pyjgPtNV_YlUGEHUUaZM5RvjdA1xWapVpmW9G6VDXPJsbFCWnW3FKT8Vy0rMOasmmdoggI1rH5djMmCsMyHzSGYWfCFtCWFRRWGEfO1WxzSmebW_8Xc7gqOilZO9BGDJ4/s1600/IMG_20160520_202543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDyznbaT4Hy-pyjgPtNV_YlUGEHUUaZM5RvjdA1xWapVpmW9G6VDXPJsbFCWnW3FKT8Vy0rMOasmmdoggI1rH5djMmCsMyHzSGYWfCFtCWFRRWGEfO1WxzSmebW_8Xc7gqOilZO9BGDJ4/s320/IMG_20160520_202543.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My ever growing collection of Mollie Makes magazine<br />
(in numerical order... obviously ! 😃)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBD5ouoA0gMVXm09D6MWpX7-xp9RZwlkhc7lTpwuOo8xCkAOuSdWORe8heeyI5Whm7eq6FcqOvFk7QYEbqa2IMCHX51bHh2XlcezDoDua49xOPuI5kWGUJESVdp7EjBOtUVH6Z_UT6iBw/s1600/IMG_20160520_202555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBD5ouoA0gMVXm09D6MWpX7-xp9RZwlkhc7lTpwuOo8xCkAOuSdWORe8heeyI5Whm7eq6FcqOvFk7QYEbqa2IMCHX51bHh2XlcezDoDua49xOPuI5kWGUJESVdp7EjBOtUVH6Z_UT6iBw/s320/IMG_20160520_202555.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a couple of crochet books so far</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few of my knitting books.....yet to be put into some kind of order 😃</td></tr>
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I'm currently trying to make up my mind about a very important purchase......a new sewing machine! I've narrowed it down to the Singer Confidence range (after seeing some good reviews and because I'm going to use my Tesco vouchers to purchase it). I was originally looking at the 7465 but since this is currently out of stock, I've been looking at the 7470. It comes with some great features but I'm still not sure which to get. Do I wait for the more basic version or go for the upgrade which should then last me a very long time as I develop my sewing repertoire....?<br />
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I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Have any of you ever used or owned either of the Singer Confidence models? Any tips?<br />
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Wishing you all a lovely Sunday and hoping that, wherever you may be, you get to enjoy a little sunshine.<br />
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Best wishes<br />
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KnittyNora xxUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-40031731456225224612016-05-18T11:07:00.000+01:002016-05-18T11:07:21.163+01:00Adventures of the crafty kind. <br />
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Hello, it's me again! </h2>
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So, by now you'll probably be used to the fact that my posts have become rather...... well, sporadic. Due, in most part, to my complete lack of energy. This can be very frustrating at times. Most recently, I've been thinking about my blog and the content that I post. For a long time I have be wary of posting too much about my health issues because I'm not someone who likes to share for sharing's sake. I'm also not very good with sympathy... :/<br />
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Some months ago I met and made friends with the loveliest lady. She has become something of an inspiration to me and is always so encouraging of my crafty plans and projects. We regularly meet for a natter, a chai tea and to share pattern ideas and inspirations. I always leave feeling uplifted and full of confidence that the things I make are 'good enough' and well made. More about this in future posts...<br />
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For the past couple of months I have had to rest and take extra special care of myself. During this time I have been making and creating when I can. My crochet skills have continued to develop and I am really pleased with my new found skills. I have become something of a convert to crocheting. I still love a bit of knitting but have to admit that crocheting is a lot quicker and easier to transport around (very important when you're travelling to and from hospital appointments).<br />
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Below are some pictures of my most recent makes. As you will see, most are crochet projects and home furnishings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45N2kK5KQ14zxN6hQdSWvRcquvUlrB5aXi2NVF9R_Pcw8NATEjFmoyphZJZhrkhjKY8goRPQi2kpaAdjCibTRHHQbEKU1vFXcrP0S2QX2I5OfFW_0v_yMsOseFTLRGXk2O1_Sc5Y_WmM/s1600/IMG_20160512_193422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45N2kK5KQ14zxN6hQdSWvRcquvUlrB5aXi2NVF9R_Pcw8NATEjFmoyphZJZhrkhjKY8goRPQi2kpaAdjCibTRHHQbEKU1vFXcrP0S2QX2I5OfFW_0v_yMsOseFTLRGXk2O1_Sc5Y_WmM/s320/IMG_20160512_193422.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mossa stitch cushion cover against our new charcoal sofa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EpfqSH0A8Q-7-xf0py86YIGDIcdHjonRgqUQl_Pt7diFO5QscQpZlspUDpwDaVbf4ubKvAcAgxn1fDU2k5FkdHvRzqabAHiTl85QAAlbOGvU1p4xhxb1w1hYe0CLMsinrKtE1isujok/s1600/IMG_20160515_194750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EpfqSH0A8Q-7-xf0py86YIGDIcdHjonRgqUQl_Pt7diFO5QscQpZlspUDpwDaVbf4ubKvAcAgxn1fDU2k5FkdHvRzqabAHiTl85QAAlbOGvU1p4xhxb1w1hYe0CLMsinrKtE1isujok/s320/IMG_20160515_194750.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mossa stitch in the great outdoors</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My very own granny square cushion design<br />
(This will sit alongside the Mossa cushion on the sofa)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuU5kdSjNMSYO_o-fuiaD6_tlfBMNCvGo7tLbU_bhOHvmAHz17vexgEG-_iZOm1lsFuIIPlSfD8wQUbKu_u098THp9r5plYGmwN1DMvKGka7LfeDwiGCM8CLFDWZD8bcDoEjn2KeK7YU/s1600/IMG_20160417_203534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuU5kdSjNMSYO_o-fuiaD6_tlfBMNCvGo7tLbU_bhOHvmAHz17vexgEG-_iZOm1lsFuIIPlSfD8wQUbKu_u098THp9r5plYGmwN1DMvKGka7LfeDwiGCM8CLFDWZD8bcDoEjn2KeK7YU/s320/IMG_20160417_203534.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An extra special gift for a very special lady</td></tr>
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Here, at KnittyNora HQ, we are in the middle of some redecorating/re-imagining of our home. We have lived in our little house for 5 1/2 years now and the signs of wear and tear are becoming very obvious. Cue lots of online research for design ideas and the purchase of a few litres of paint. Thankfully, my husband has been on hand to help out and has been busy putting together shelving units (got to love IKEA!) and has made a start on the painting. It gets very frustrating that I'm unable to help with much of this work but for now I am focusing on the positives and keeping my hands busy with some crochet accessories to finish off the final look.<br />
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I shall sign off with a photo of my beautiful pooch, Buster (seen here showing off a crochet bandana I made for him). This gorgeous boy never fails to put a smile on my face 😘<br />
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Until next time, much love and best wishes,<br />
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KnittyNora xxUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-79822812566897845952015-08-19T20:03:00.000+01:002015-08-19T20:03:39.986+01:00The return of KnittyNora<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Well, hello there :)</span></div>
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Yes, yes, I know it's been a while but I promise that I have a good excuse...</div>
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As ever, my health has gotten in the way of my blogging. I've tried to post on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/allyouneediscraft" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page when I can but I'm guilty of letting things slip a little. I won't try and promise that I won't do it again because I just don't know how I'm going to feel from day to day. What I can promise is that I will try my very best to post updates here whenever I can. Deal...? </div>
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I've posted previously about my health issues but have always felt that I didn't want to bore you all with my moans and concerns or turn this into a blog about my silly body. Instead, I'd like this blog to be about my crafting adventures and, more recently, my adventures with my gorgeous puppy, Buster. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buster being gorgeous</td></tr>
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<br /><br />I'm not embarrassed about talking about my health issues (I have Endometriosis and severe IBS) and am happy to share my experiences with people should that wish to hear about it. In short, I don't want to inundate you lovely people with information you might not want to know. I can say, however, that my crafting and baking have been a huge help to me when I've been feeling at my worst. There are some days when I don't have the energy to do much at all but sometimes I just pick up some wool and some knitting needles and just start making and creating. Focusing my mind on something other than medicine and hospital appointments offers a much needed sense of relief and the sense of achievement when I finish a project (no matter how small or simple) is wonderful.<br /><br />Just over 5 weeks ago I had to go into hospital for an operation. Coming home to my knitting and my lovely pup (and not forgetting my husband!) made my recovery a lot more bearable.<br /><br />Here are a few pictures of my most recent creations so that you can see what I've been up to whilst I've been away......<div>
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The 'shell' necklace</h4>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knitted shell design necklace - just need to add the fastening</td></tr>
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The pattern for this lovely necklace was a random find thanks to a fellow crafty lady that I follow online. She had posted a link to some patterns that created from small amounts of yarn (think - patterns to use up your leftovers from larger projects). I loved this necklace and started making one right away. I decided to choose the soft green colour as I thought it would look a little more grown up and would work nicely with lots of different outfits, whether it be for daytime or night time.<br /><br />
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The Nordic cafetiere cosy</h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKzdTsBz3AUOBjPvsSvuWDX-EPonoSw9aqHwhV-zN3d5Hmauy4ocDj-1q-cE5JJvTn6DKzDH2kSrtN5osOZgphW2XNj00O6LaPU1YUgffDIxLPOS7ilXgrO7cdAhcPXELAifuGOHOpk4/s1600/DSC_0208%255B2%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKzdTsBz3AUOBjPvsSvuWDX-EPonoSw9aqHwhV-zN3d5Hmauy4ocDj-1q-cE5JJvTn6DKzDH2kSrtN5osOZgphW2XNj00O6LaPU1YUgffDIxLPOS7ilXgrO7cdAhcPXELAifuGOHOpk4/s320/DSC_0208%255B2%255D.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Nordic design cafetiere cosy I made for my husband. He loves it.</td></tr>
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I've been promising to make something for my husband for some time now. I haven't made anything for him since the beanie hats I made for him a few years ago, when I'd first started knitting (not counting the abandoned cable knit jumper I started a few winters ago). He loves his coffee and is a big fan of Nordic and Fairisle designs. After finding some lovely Nordic pattern books in my local library, I was really happy when my husband picked out this design. He chose the red and the white (which I already had tucked away in my stash - very handy) and that was that. I'm really pleased with the results and so is he - a win all round.<br /><br />
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Vintage inspired baby blanket in pastel shades</h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlA279JvNXuDy42ESH3UXl46JcSenbu_ayUtT3Og-j5PhgtlWWU7ubqhJjQjYqqETgPL_cEIaWsw21oRAyCSghBriwrrTwcdtTSC2alDL_vonO1YQ0zDTaeloQGczOnweraeTkXwTm1w/s1600/DSC_0115%255B2%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlA279JvNXuDy42ESH3UXl46JcSenbu_ayUtT3Og-j5PhgtlWWU7ubqhJjQjYqqETgPL_cEIaWsw21oRAyCSghBriwrrTwcdtTSC2alDL_vonO1YQ0zDTaeloQGczOnweraeTkXwTm1w/s320/DSC_0115%255B2%255D.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vintage inspired baby blanket I've been making for a special friend</td></tr>
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<br />This is a quick picture taken just before I finished the blanket so that I could post about it's progress on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/allyouneediscraft" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page. When I say 'finished' what I really mean is that I've done the knitting and now I just need to sit and weave in the ends.... for now though, I've been distracted with some new patterns. Thankfully it doesn't have to be finished for a couple of months. Plenty of time :)<br /><br />
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Nordic inspired, knitted bunting</h4>
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The pattern for this bunting came from another library find. The book, called 'fair isle and nordic knits', is full of lovely designs that are bursting with colour and perfect for practising your fair isle knitting skills. I loved this pattern as soon as I saw it and knew it would be perfect for me to work on after my operation since I could do a little bit at a time and could quickly knit up a flag when I felt up to it. I've now knit the number of flags I need and just need to decide how I'm going to join them - do I knit a cord or sew them onto a nice length of ribbon? </div>
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<br />Looking forward to decorating my spare room come craft room with these beauties :)</div>
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Knitted sampler </h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DdQccnm4ONHiInHGnwiW5SAMXFKwwfpKhiOfEvs59elDkZzAZZLGnBMCVoatoG4V6g1be3chfOoOoJ3zOG6v6b1IMlLXyyytqRZKFf2-Vjr3lbESetIHyfUDAiacLq3TXQJOW94DmRU/s1600/DSC_0186%255B2%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DdQccnm4ONHiInHGnwiW5SAMXFKwwfpKhiOfEvs59elDkZzAZZLGnBMCVoatoG4V6g1be3chfOoOoJ3zOG6v6b1IMlLXyyytqRZKFf2-Vjr3lbESetIHyfUDAiacLq3TXQJOW94DmRU/s320/DSC_0186%255B2%255D.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A great project for perfecting your multi strand knitting skills</td></tr>
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The pattern for this sampler came from the same book as the knitted bunting/flags. I love the idea of making small designs that I can hang around the house. Again, this pattern is perfect for when I'm in the mood for a short project that keeps my mind busy and is ready in no time. I've yet to decide where to hang this..... I'm thinking the hallway so that my visitors can admire it as they walk into my cosy little home.<br /><br />
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And on the recipe front........</h4>
Besides the knitting, I've also been busy trying to create recipes for the new diet I've been put on by my IBS specialist. Basically, all my ideas of healthy, home cooked food have gone out of the window, My diet is now restricted to meat, fish, eggs, milk, butter, rice, carrots, potatoes and sugar. All I can add is salt, not even pepper! Gone are the spices and herbs and in are simple and plain dishes that many would find uninspiring. Me being me, I have to have a go at making and adapting recipes so that I can brighten up meal times. So far, I've adapted a macaroon recipe and found a fudge recipe that should satisfy my sweet cravings.<br /><br />I've currently got a batch of said fudge cooling in it's tray........time for me to say goodbye and go and have a cheeky taste.<br /><br /><br />More recipes and stories of my knitting adventures to follow soon.......<br />
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KnittyNora xxxxx<br /><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-33881505661374662352015-05-11T10:47:00.001+01:002016-06-13T12:23:39.330+01:00It's been a while.... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">Hi all,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">yes, it certainly has been a while since I last blogged, sorry. As I logged in for the first time, in a VERY long time I discovered a post I had started in October of last year (posted, incomplete, below). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">Being poorly really can get in the way of my making and blogging :( As far as my health is concerned, I am back and forth to the hospital as usual but now have a new gastro team in Manchester. Yes, a bit of a trek for me (minimum of 2 1/2 hour each way) but I am hopeful that they can help.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">On the crafting front - I've continued to make and design things since I last spoke to you all. I managed to keep my promise to make all of the birthday gifts for my nieces and nephews last year and am continuing to make gifts for my youngest nieces and nephews this year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">Here's a pic of just a couple of things I've made: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In other news...</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfKgMIdDwYMpUknVWp0uegnjNP2P0Xg4r4yBgzr16VbgyCfUPkpUOflpTeo6b0k7CFoqSfdbTUSmNqd-OTy__druz0BYM0yzJuYLeMvBMBAY_FjtnVUsRGTLFHOAh2MnCJ71P5S8Umwk/s1600/CAM00016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfKgMIdDwYMpUknVWp0uegnjNP2P0Xg4r4yBgzr16VbgyCfUPkpUOflpTeo6b0k7CFoqSfdbTUSmNqd-OTy__druz0BYM0yzJuYLeMvBMBAY_FjtnVUsRGTLFHOAh2MnCJ71P5S8Umwk/s320/CAM00016.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is a picture of my lovely puppy, Buster, on the day we brought him home. He was just 9 weeks old when we got him from the rescue shelter. He has filled my life with so much happiness and fun over the past 6 months. I cannot begin to tell you how much I love this little man. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You'll notice that he has grown some what since we got him.................</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buster and I posing in the sun </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'It's very tiring being this cute' </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Be prepared for lots more news on Buster and his adventures :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For now I shall head back to my knitting bag and continue with a baby blanket I'm currently making (see below). My husband is in bed at the moment after a night shift so I'm going to take Buster for a little walk soon and then make myself a well earned brew. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Speak to you all very soon xx</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Post from last October.........</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><b>Hello from me </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>Hi everyone!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, I know I've not been very chatty recently, but I have good reason..... as you will all be aware, I've been a poorly sick lady and, unfortunately, this has prevented me from keeping up to date with my blog. All of that aside, I wanted to stop by and say hello and let you know what I've been up to recently.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Crafty projects.......</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At the beginning of the year I made a promise to myself that I would make all of this year's presents for my nephews and nieces. I have six in total, with one niece (Nancy) being born just a few months ago. Their ages vary from newborn to 11 so I've had to plan gifts that suit their age range and, for a soon to be teenager, their lifestyle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The younger ones were pretty easy to plan for - soft toys, clothes, bunting, etc. My eldest nephew, George, will be 12 at the end of the month. I want to make him something that he'll not only like but be proud to wear in front of his friends. This year's must have accessory for the teenage boy appears to be the slouchy hat. I found a great pattern online (cocoknits) and have just made a start on it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here's a sneaky peek......</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-87791669683696857042014-04-25T19:05:00.000+01:002014-04-25T19:05:54.728+01:00A blog milestone and a new knitting project.<h2>
A bit of a milestone....</h2>
As I logged into my blogger page I realised that I'm almost at 5000 blog views.....yes, 5000! I'm so pleased that people are reading my little blog and I hope you're enjoying it. I often wonder who reads my blog? I'd love to hear from you and get some feedback. What do you like most about my blog? Is there anything else you would encourage me to add?<br />
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Come on, don't be shy :)<br />
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What I've been up to....</h2>
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Over the last few weeks I've continued to wait for my next hospital appointment to come through and have been trying to find ways of distracting myself from ill health and treatment (or lack thereof). I'm really lucky to have some fab people around me who are constantly introducing me to new things and trying to keep my spirits up. I've been introduced to some interesting alternative therapies and have even tried a few of them out. One of my most favourite ways to relax though is by listening to music and, if I have the energy, with a bit of knitting.<br />
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My latest knitting project is one especially for me. I love to knit for others but thought I would treat myself to something new for the summer. I was lucky enough to be sent some complimentary knitting goodies from the awesome people over at Kollabora. With the grey cotton yarn and 5mm circular needles I had everything I needed to make this gorgeous <a href="http://www.berroco.com/patterns/maderia" target="_blank">vest</a> - perfect for warm, sunny days or even layered over a t-shirt/long sleeved top when it gets a bit chilly.<br />
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Here's a sneak peek of where I'm up to...........<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JqoYOuxT-grhzd2QA9Vy3226g26Nk_kJ1YkenFZc1XxF6bWUVeiaI-J6CfJXSsKQYH95GglSmrg3-Y_LRDr6hp53EtMsOfElHB82_H4sfGbC3poHU0cBmL0ILTg6U1a6LPjbGv6F850/s1600/DSCF9868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JqoYOuxT-grhzd2QA9Vy3226g26Nk_kJ1YkenFZc1XxF6bWUVeiaI-J6CfJXSsKQYH95GglSmrg3-Y_LRDr6hp53EtMsOfElHB82_H4sfGbC3poHU0cBmL0ILTg6U1a6LPjbGv6F850/s1600/DSCF9868.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the best picture but gives you an idea of where I'm at so far :)</td></tr>
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This evening, I shall mostly be spending some quality time with my knitting whilst my husband enjoys an evening out with his work colleagues.<br />
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I'm off to pop the kettle on, put my feet up and watch exactly what I want on the TV.......bliss!<br />
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Happy weekend everyone,<br />
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KnittyNora xx<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-10279597473464970002014-04-07T12:13:00.002+01:002014-04-07T12:13:49.407+01:00Making, baking and taking it easyAs I sit writing this post the rain is pouring outside. This is a day for hibernating at home with some crafty bits and bobs and tasty treats to accompany many cups of tea.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc2ZgRHdOF3fbyJ-KfLJHZqB6yEnDZcikraGgqvnW-VfUlFQkSdgeiHLzsWJ-VGJCWswHrZx-gXT2ifgMPqy7JV4WB_7HUW0VqTfWMBzOF_ZmUZNizoqi-T4vwv11zn8uNh1u9S8xFAA/s1600/DSCF9336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc2ZgRHdOF3fbyJ-KfLJHZqB6yEnDZcikraGgqvnW-VfUlFQkSdgeiHLzsWJ-VGJCWswHrZx-gXT2ifgMPqy7JV4WB_7HUW0VqTfWMBzOF_ZmUZNizoqi-T4vwv11zn8uNh1u9S8xFAA/s1600/DSCF9336.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Baking some tasty treats</h3>
As many of you know, I've been a rather poorly chick over the past year and a bit. Whilst I wait for my next lots of tests at the hospital I'm keeping myself sane with my love of craft and, when I can, baking. Today, given that I had a large pot of natural yoghurt to use, I decided to make some gluten free scones - here's the <a href="http://www.yummly.co.uk/recipe/external/Gluten-Free-Scones-389703" target="_blank">recipe</a>. I do love a good scone. Finding gluten free ones is impossible and I much prefer homemade than shop bought :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mVIW6livHUE-Fj5-xLhGOmB9ewsXyifc1aW7_2Mlf0R13cAZGm1xBt1hLUzlX4G5iFX4akZfEFKlGJ5nopAnrocPmLDqZJBiWmg59ard6tzdKCcuWme18ti5PGIDeh4hQQoNj6aMXzA/s1600/DSCF9747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mVIW6livHUE-Fj5-xLhGOmB9ewsXyifc1aW7_2Mlf0R13cAZGm1xBt1hLUzlX4G5iFX4akZfEFKlGJ5nopAnrocPmLDqZJBiWmg59ard6tzdKCcuWme18ti5PGIDeh4hQQoNj6aMXzA/s1600/DSCF9747.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I've also got a bowl of pears to use up soon. I'm sure my husband will be voting for a crumble when I come to use those :)<br />
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Making</h3>
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I managed to find myself some new little crafty bits and bobs online during the week, including some iron on webbing and some double sided tape. May sound random but I have some ideas in my little head that require both. You'll have to wait and see what I use them for......... :)</div>
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I can reveal, however, one of my new projects - reusing old plastic bags to create new and usable items. I hate waste so why should plastic bags be any different? After finding inspiration in one of my knitting books I've decided to go crazy and just knit until I decide what I want to make. The original pattern is for a bag but I'm wondering whether I can make something a little more adventurous.</div>
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Here's what I've got so far .....................</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZrJm4h0uKfGwcCKw-uu9kIC_qzwNh7iv32p9PA7tlogr6qbG6hrVBtmlKhS6zrl-wVTA_IkI8ATzprDo6pWj1kNjGI0mAvLjHR7Y57Rhh8KTYD76Spv5T2cTxbPN14z8fX7DezH3abIc/s1600/DSCF9752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZrJm4h0uKfGwcCKw-uu9kIC_qzwNh7iv32p9PA7tlogr6qbG6hrVBtmlKhS6zrl-wVTA_IkI8ATzprDo6pWj1kNjGI0mAvLjHR7Y57Rhh8KTYD76Spv5T2cTxbPN14z8fX7DezH3abIc/s1600/DSCF9752.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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..........and time to relax</h3>
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After all the excitement of baking and blogging, I'm ready for a little rest. Time to settle down and catch up on some of the programmes I've missed recently. I discovered Inspector De Luca (BBC4) at the weekend and have to say I'm quite intrigued and MUST watch more to really decide whether I like it or not ;)</div>
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Happy crafting, people :)</div>
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KnittyNora xx</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-21032695191914052102014-04-02T09:28:00.000+01:002014-04-02T09:28:07.848+01:00Hello Spring!I'm very glad to say that the sun has actually been shining in my garden......yes, it occasionally makes an appearance up North :) This has given me the perfect excuse to get out into the sunshine and to be inspired by the colours and scenic changes that happen as Spring arrives.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7hRcXUxpArvq-Mq6YeyAwoy-4I7JjxrCPk9ydeNVLXkm2r2huG3yTtAHSroMzmqhuvpg-Yp5DrOI_-UMNRjM1Mw4F_7scne6koaEeTT_cKs6Q5nftcDr4I2-yE-rstHyzgEeNThfoQA/s1600/DSCF9716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7hRcXUxpArvq-Mq6YeyAwoy-4I7JjxrCPk9ydeNVLXkm2r2huG3yTtAHSroMzmqhuvpg-Yp5DrOI_-UMNRjM1Mw4F_7scne6koaEeTT_cKs6Q5nftcDr4I2-yE-rstHyzgEeNThfoQA/s1600/DSCF9716.JPG" height="240" title="" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not strictly 'my garden' but a view I am very lucky to enjoy :)<br />
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I really do love seeing the first Spring lambs and all the energy and life they have. It never fails to put a smile on my face. I'm very lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the country.<br />
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What have I been up to?</h3>
On the making front, I've been continuing with some baby makes for my sister's little one (due at the end of June). I know my sister loves vintage style clothing and is specifically researching 'old fashioned' baby names - Millicent, Ada, .....the list goes on :) I'm sure she'd be grateful if any of you fancied posting some names suggestions below. I've sent her a few. The chosen name will only be revealed on the day the baby is born.<br />
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Here's a little picture of the vintage inspired cardigan I'm making for the little one.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzfz5zy9m6ThxSgTVnrKCdF4IbuNh_zw3Tchu7hWMr49p8C_kh1pC9xlY-eEZ3FcAAdy-U7RMXR622aNibJtoIrqM8PObKrnUDOwpESNFhmydieECPSQywK5eWwRQeYgLjpOpyfqE20U/s1600/DSCF9734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzfz5zy9m6ThxSgTVnrKCdF4IbuNh_zw3Tchu7hWMr49p8C_kh1pC9xlY-eEZ3FcAAdy-U7RMXR622aNibJtoIrqM8PObKrnUDOwpESNFhmydieECPSQywK5eWwRQeYgLjpOpyfqE20U/s1600/DSCF9734.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost finished!</td></tr>
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Making mission</h3>
I made a plan this year to make all the gifts I give to my nieces and nephews and thought - why not extend this to everyone I give gifts to? With that in mind, I've been busy researching patterns and gift ideas for friends and family. It's a very special friend's birthday soon and I'm hoping I can make something equally as special for her....... she'll also be able to read this .......no pressure! :)<br />
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I'd love to hear what you lovely people have been up and to and if you have any projects in mind. It's so much easier to think about making and creating when the weather brightens up.<br />
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Until next blog, take care :)<br />
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Best wishes,<br />
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KnittyNora xx<br />
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*All pictures included on this blog are property of Allyouneediscraft and KnittyNora. Please seek permission if you wish to use any of them.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-51008980794281705462014-03-01T11:33:00.000+00:002014-03-01T11:33:19.257+00:00Here's what I've been up to.......<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hi all,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">thought I'd check in with a quick update and let you know what I've been up to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">It's a girl!</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, after finding out that my sister's imminent arrival is going to be a girl I've been on a mission to find beautiful girlie wool and some lovely vintage inspired patterns. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here's what I've been making so far.........</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pBuFrhwJCR125a0LUXiWe-uhZMIeOHg1vGXwlwMcuMJn0_2Wycj0MiRJ35LDZnxo31j0QJi9Efk6nwUk3u8tbYeLtY8_C7NpytQMmdLitM6mrSq6Mzn_zGVXb-IpQur9vk7jrSrjU-k/s1600/DSCF9651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pBuFrhwJCR125a0LUXiWe-uhZMIeOHg1vGXwlwMcuMJn0_2Wycj0MiRJ35LDZnxo31j0QJi9Efk6nwUk3u8tbYeLtY8_C7NpytQMmdLitM6mrSq6Mzn_zGVXb-IpQur9vk7jrSrjU-k/s1600/DSCF9651.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'm using a pattern that I used for the cardigan I made my best friend's baby a few months ago. I managed to find this peach wool which I think really suits the project. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Making gifts for my little nephew</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My youngest nephew is going to be two in just under two weeks. He loves his cuddly toys and I love making home made gifts for him. Thanks to the array of wonderful patterns to be found online, I came across a pattern for a Herdwick sheep. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are all the parts knitted.....</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZ5GcTbeQg532j4MakTlnGn7J_Zeq8geQMV1ufyDLNTZr36T15tpfXyo09YrRuVgiDtzN5IXQHhsyyZcMDwW0gGf4bqd19n87wTINndqBNWomB5y6WMD0FcelMCfHcKFQpW34zPQnn40/s1600/DSCF9660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZ5GcTbeQg532j4MakTlnGn7J_Zeq8geQMV1ufyDLNTZr36T15tpfXyo09YrRuVgiDtzN5IXQHhsyyZcMDwW0gGf4bqd19n87wTINndqBNWomB5y6WMD0FcelMCfHcKFQpW34zPQnn40/s1600/DSCF9660.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cable knit body, four legs, two part head, two ears and a cable knit tail</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">.....You'll be able to find pictures of the finished Herdy (once he's been filled with some toddler friendly toy stuffing) over on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/allyouneediscraft" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Old rope for a new rug</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thanks to some inspiration from a fellow maker on Kollabora, I've got big plans for this old climbing rope. I don't like waste and I certainly don't like letting my climbing ropes end up in the bin. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Stay tuned to see what I do to this little beauty :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">.........and last but not least - Shaker peg rails</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whilst I'm talking climbing rope I thought I'd tell you about my plans for creating a Shaker style peg rail for my other climbing ropes - my husband and I have many!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I love the shaker style pegs - simple and elegant. I'm planning to make one of my own, sourcing pegs the right size and weight to hold several heavy ropes. I'm also going to source a piece of wood for the rail that will add some character to the display. A friend of mine (who turns out to be a bit of an amateur carpenter) has offered me the use of his wood work tools. Along with my GCSE in Resistant materials (woodwork to me), I'm hoping to create something extra special for my much loved climbing gear. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I'd love to hear what you're all up to this weekend and if you've got any crafty projects on the go. Feel free to leave your comments below.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Best wishes,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">KnittyNora xx</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Psst.......did you know that my psychedelic sweater was selected for a Kollabora collection. Find it <a href="http://www.kollabora.com/collections/sweater-weather-better-weather?utm_medium=email&utm_source=transactional&utm_campaign=knock%40kollabora.com" target="_blank">here</a> </span></h3>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-49798230361307850362014-02-06T19:34:00.001+00:002014-02-06T19:34:19.655+00:00Looking on the bright side.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPjVlJTZR_hJ0uP6YwQDPJVLZkWWoLxzMUj8h99ufB2RzkUQ2iuDsJT90inVNFrenXuLuHjuy1huPyjVy-gf94hmKJ6-6f72HiNLu-O87fTrO-Gg8mtPgBYecN6W3JBPs1I5Rv7Vj7zS0/s1600/CAM00377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPjVlJTZR_hJ0uP6YwQDPJVLZkWWoLxzMUj8h99ufB2RzkUQ2iuDsJT90inVNFrenXuLuHjuy1huPyjVy-gf94hmKJ6-6f72HiNLu-O87fTrO-Gg8mtPgBYecN6W3JBPs1I5Rv7Vj7zS0/s1600/CAM00377.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The last year has been a rather busy and testing time for me. Due to ill health, I am currently unable to go to work and have been making regular trips to see my GP and consultant at the hospital. Being a person who is normally running around in the mountains and climbing things, I've found this rather difficult. However, I'd like to think of myself as an optimistic person and therefore have pledged to use this time, whilst taking it easy at home, to consider those things that are most important to me and to look forward to the many new adventures this year has to offer.<br />
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<h3>
Home improvements</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5O9SrSyrya5cdLkZq3nhmPM29Uy9P3BwHo9ji0vvf3ylvlV4X8ev-3VnK0KbET1EEauJDxhWcNF3wqwNo8tfblbloT4V9SDbtT04NERN6EvAO26B5QHGf-FLuk3jH0pPs38Th-OBKuPs/s1600/DSCF9105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5O9SrSyrya5cdLkZq3nhmPM29Uy9P3BwHo9ji0vvf3ylvlV4X8ev-3VnK0KbET1EEauJDxhWcNF3wqwNo8tfblbloT4V9SDbtT04NERN6EvAO26B5QHGf-FLuk3jH0pPs38Th-OBKuPs/s1600/DSCF9105.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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After watching the Great Interior Design Challenge on BBC2 I have been inspired to start adding some personality to my home. I'm planning to start simple - cushions, throws, etc, but would love to do a bit of decorating and inject a bit of colour to the place (once I'm well enough). My home is jam packed with outdoor gear and I would love to make more of a feature of this rather than just trying to hide it away in cupboards. My husband and I are both musicians too. His guitars have finally made it onto the walls but now I want more :)<br />
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Babies, babies, babies........</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnEw_xkrYDkHOBjWSvoEl1fzgQQaOvrdXurPIocPJtR-miaOA774BjvOgoBhrH4wGkQ9Twbs6mqZTBo3zywESa2EHKPuhUhG2nIpINvec5YA4TVbeXhpNVqL9jsgc0FopoERh99OmkNQ/s1600/baby+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGnEw_xkrYDkHOBjWSvoEl1fzgQQaOvrdXurPIocPJtR-miaOA774BjvOgoBhrH4wGkQ9Twbs6mqZTBo3zywESa2EHKPuhUhG2nIpINvec5YA4TVbeXhpNVqL9jsgc0FopoERh99OmkNQ/s1600/baby+hat.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This year my sister will have her second baby. Her next scan is due on Valentine's day. She's planning to find out the sex of the baby this time which means I will get the chance to go out and buy some girl or boy specific yarn. Last time round I opted for safe white and lemon. This little hat (above) was one of the first gifts I gave my new little nephew. He's now nearly two and has a lot of handmade gifts from his favourite auntie :)<br />
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My best friend will also be planning her baby's christening for this summer which means finding a lovely outfit for me.....I may even try and make one if I'm feeling really brave! And of course, I'll have to make the little one something special to mark the occasion.<br />
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Developing All you need is craft</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgleq5ojdQ7gddJfFgn3pvWz1mc5iZLKr6_pWvjTLfW8RAnD-_4uxAFNMp6wPYmFmvMwvnPPF3JiUbreHYWav6hGqxDaiGGraCwnmiZIOH_dXXdwzFeDlLF68o70sR6UvLvyqRJ8Cd2c-o/s1600/rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgleq5ojdQ7gddJfFgn3pvWz1mc5iZLKr6_pWvjTLfW8RAnD-_4uxAFNMp6wPYmFmvMwvnPPF3JiUbreHYWav6hGqxDaiGGraCwnmiZIOH_dXXdwzFeDlLF68o70sR6UvLvyqRJ8Cd2c-o/s1600/rings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Whilst I have this time on my hands, I'd like to develop the range of things I create. A few people have asked me whether I sell the things I make. The answer - no. I would love to but with a full-time job I've had little time to focus on creating my own little business. I would love to increase my audience and know that there are people out there wearing something I have made.<br />
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If any of you have any experience of making and selling/setting up a small business I would love to hear your thoughts. I'm sure my other readers would also enjoy some of your words of wisdom.<br />
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A treat for you</h3>
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If you pop over to my Facebook page you'll find a great little offer, especially for my followers/likers, from Pepper Ink. They make a fabulous range of temporary tattoos, including some new, craft inspired ones. </div>
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You can find the offer here: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/allyouneediscraft" target="_blank">All you need is craft</a></div>
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Wishing you all a good week,<br />
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KnittyNora xx<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-90732742569268778852014-01-16T13:50:00.001+00:002014-01-16T13:50:42.752+00:00A little hello from me<br />
Hi all!<br />
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I've been a bit busy recently with returning to work and trying to adjust to new routines.<br />
Fear not, I have managed to fit in a bit of crafting when I've been able to grab some me time. <br />
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I'm currently enjoying my lunch break and preparing myself for the pile of work I have to get through before home time........<br />
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....... in the meantime, here's a little sneak peek at what I've been up to.................<br />
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I've mostly been making:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Cosy slippers as gifts for family</li>
<li>A funky pompom adorned hat for a close friend's birthday</li>
<li>Messing around with gardening wire and i-cord to create a project inspired by something I saw in Mollie Makes. </li>
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I'll be back later to show off some pics :)<br />
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Hope you're all having a good day.<br />
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KnittyNora xx<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-5497246561967287672014-01-02T13:11:00.001+00:002014-01-02T13:11:44.082+00:00The journey back to health<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a very long break, I am back at work. Wow! Now that's a shock to the system :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As many of you will already know, I have been very poorly this year. After many hospital appointments and a few too many stays in hospital, I think I'm on the road to recovery. I've still got a few appointments with my specialist coming up but am hopeful that I can start getting my life back to 'normal'.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since my last operation, in early October, I've been keeping myself sane by knitting gifts for friends and family. This time of year is a rather busy one for me with several birthdays and the lead up to Christmas. And not forgetting the birth (nearly three weeks ago now) of my best friend's first child - baby Jack. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year's gifts have included cosy snoods, chunky knit slippers and some very practical hand warmers for a fellow crafter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's a sneak peek at what I've been making......no complaints so far :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIwkDdYpth4h6AS_PCVoHnyMqvs_ABVzDH8U4YiWw6Z9UkslWdsSUpu43Ishyphenhyphen0OSH0uzeZoGnXTstHcIjII11fyxlbJcpdgIIL1LDzlY3qVRmDt-RBE3ZnR-s4L6nkQ-lFJLqftRSeub0/s1600/green+slipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIwkDdYpth4h6AS_PCVoHnyMqvs_ABVzDH8U4YiWw6Z9UkslWdsSUpu43Ishyphenhyphen0OSH0uzeZoGnXTstHcIjII11fyxlbJcpdgIIL1LDzlY3qVRmDt-RBE3ZnR-s4L6nkQ-lFJLqftRSeub0/s320/green+slipper.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4TwTEoep2B85GKntvIRyN4WcfL6J7HgslE0l1NA4R5DKppEEqRHaomaN72fg6T9xM98KdajPrvtL_1W2G_mmS02T9Bhbdrnl7GrtAgnbvOkw31c-z_KUf2Y13JBO1tJhGW8EDTw30s4/s1600/butterfly+slipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4TwTEoep2B85GKntvIRyN4WcfL6J7HgslE0l1NA4R5DKppEEqRHaomaN72fg6T9xM98KdajPrvtL_1W2G_mmS02T9Bhbdrnl7GrtAgnbvOkw31c-z_KUf2Y13JBO1tJhGW8EDTw30s4/s320/butterfly+slipper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Update - 2/1/2014</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you can probably tell, the above was written just before Christmas.....since then I've had the flu :(</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trying to get myself back to health and looking forward to learning some new crafty skills thanks to some beautiful gifts I received for Christmas. My mission this year is to master crotchet. I <u>WILL</u> have my own granny square blanket by the end of 2014.....fingers crossed :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's hoping that you all enjoyed the festive break.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Best wishes,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">KnittyNora xx</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-22817710667117933942013-10-27T14:33:00.002+00:002013-10-27T14:36:02.104+00:00Slowly but surely......<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hello lovely readers! It sure has been a while.....a very long while.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm pleased to say that I am now resting up at home after having an operation two and a half weeks ago. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Over the past few days I've managed to pick up my knitting needles again and have made a start on some Christmas gifts. Think cosy, warm slippers and snoods.....yum!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are a couple of pics, especially for you:</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRkS6CTXUFsRWJsCYu4bGS_PGRp8vKAE_wl08obj67NfR_Dkr3_KrolXgJECMDLGbBchUnV3gDQpDgFimR9ZgrB0RXrcmSMS6GdSQnd_uAKFqYjJUFQ6QFXLyzTKkdvbWISbDqzOpRcw/s1600/DSCF9359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjRkS6CTXUFsRWJsCYu4bGS_PGRp8vKAE_wl08obj67NfR_Dkr3_KrolXgJECMDLGbBchUnV3gDQpDgFimR9ZgrB0RXrcmSMS6GdSQnd_uAKFqYjJUFQ6QFXLyzTKkdvbWISbDqzOpRcw/s320/DSCF9359.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My very happy feet and slipper socks</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAlEMeJHRKqAJUVafVVME4igTGyERPiNUYShyphenhyphenZ6CIGmbB1aI8XiP-zxLS1D9ob-UkDRGIZxEES65soTBXrN0cmvdEp6Re6GAucwfqTUdH8s5zy7rV_52tj2-Ln7rGCLR4XhOXI2cu_HHc/s1600/DSCF9362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAlEMeJHRKqAJUVafVVME4igTGyERPiNUYShyphenhyphenZ6CIGmbB1aI8XiP-zxLS1D9ob-UkDRGIZxEES65soTBXrN0cmvdEp6Re6GAucwfqTUdH8s5zy7rV_52tj2-Ln7rGCLR4XhOXI2cu_HHc/s320/DSCF9362.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using a multi colour wool created a lovely multi tonal design </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've also made these in a couple of other colours, ready to be wrapped up for Christmas and given to their new owners :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm also making some baby clothes for a special friend who is about to become a mummy for the first time. I love making baby items and especially love making things for people I love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope you're all keeping well. Pop back soon for a sneak peek at some of my other new makes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">KnittyNora xx</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-24241207589666596202013-08-18T12:58:00.000+01:002013-08-18T12:58:20.287+01:00Birds of prey, visiting friends, a 40th birthday and a hospital visit.It's been a busy week or so for me......a hospital visit to see my consultant, a lovely visit from some friends and my husband's 40th birthday.<br />
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As I'm sure you can imagine, this left me feeling more than a bit tired :) Here's a little sneak peek at what I got up to...........<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwQHgC2ay9g_M-9K0t2ouvQcoGtPowhet2SMq_29pYOK6QxEZk9t2CabL8U-T_oKt4EBfF_8550QOLYPMCjEmR2fXXeKbjukzQJxWrgUT0KjtK9NC9aMeJuclUMlRTXYZSMVnMUdkUWY/s1600/DSCF9124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwQHgC2ay9g_M-9K0t2ouvQcoGtPowhet2SMq_29pYOK6QxEZk9t2CabL8U-T_oKt4EBfF_8550QOLYPMCjEmR2fXXeKbjukzQJxWrgUT0KjtK9NC9aMeJuclUMlRTXYZSMVnMUdkUWY/s320/DSCF9124.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A gentle stroll around Ennerdale water</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LL3n97kBDQDRetAyQIt-yj6WpT00MujLdb9J0IMV6AteCyadu0R17S5O4dOsitFMbPXL7tjnmuuxFpS8G19v8D6VnVZrvX7jxvYButHlM9c_WweIFpNIiQ0yIwkdzhNHQYrLeYsorD0/s1600/DSCF9170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LL3n97kBDQDRetAyQIt-yj6WpT00MujLdb9J0IMV6AteCyadu0R17S5O4dOsitFMbPXL7tjnmuuxFpS8G19v8D6VnVZrvX7jxvYButHlM9c_WweIFpNIiQ0yIwkdzhNHQYrLeYsorD0/s320/DSCF9170.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A ride on L'al Ratty</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEZnoYCRAvs1fbnxesLMU1SmE0CVZ65uh6QgQUstf3FONVr1yOjG_Rhj2gC6AtsKbJdPBwZ2sNYT89-1USD0jX4isNtGqLegOzxjqDu4Fg4mt3yvk40dDinfOyUa70WEAsT_634zNktc/s1600/DSCF9173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEZnoYCRAvs1fbnxesLMU1SmE0CVZ65uh6QgQUstf3FONVr1yOjG_Rhj2gC6AtsKbJdPBwZ2sNYT89-1USD0jX4isNtGqLegOzxjqDu4Fg4mt3yvk40dDinfOyUa70WEAsT_634zNktc/s320/DSCF9173.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious and homemade (gluten free) birthday cake </td></tr>
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A visit to the Penrith birds of prey centre..........<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Y6wa0056O9Xl1JHiNXzbS4afpo1w0jicwtOAZQ80x2iT-gIXsZS2Ir5eVhWKZCNXVZfKD2FEwcTRVFTkd8sDxxnQGzOBwLe_DGzBq2WDbEoZPl0LZxylS3FXHW2EeuaM1vI3gFCBeaI/s1600/DSCF9189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Y6wa0056O9Xl1JHiNXzbS4afpo1w0jicwtOAZQ80x2iT-gIXsZS2Ir5eVhWKZCNXVZfKD2FEwcTRVFTkd8sDxxnQGzOBwLe_DGzBq2WDbEoZPl0LZxylS3FXHW2EeuaM1vI3gFCBeaI/s320/DSCF9189.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very beautiful Harris Hawk.....</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkpZ7pFWSyp1gUDBkJeo9tJauBnMnnls2X25M1EPSgN19MIAt0AqiqvHvhyphenhyphenBV53WPut_Wwdowx3FYhCvisaVX-bR52QDkSZd09jZZI8YbP4KZpvXz3BrlIPndtU5-s0DORLlUA6fXPRs/s1600/DSCF9192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkpZ7pFWSyp1gUDBkJeo9tJauBnMnnls2X25M1EPSgN19MIAt0AqiqvHvhyphenhyphenBV53WPut_Wwdowx3FYhCvisaVX-bR52QDkSZd09jZZI8YbP4KZpvXz3BrlIPndtU5-s0DORLlUA6fXPRs/s320/DSCF9192.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">..........and very well behaved too </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNIRbA994GiWZ7s8UX-N9fDPnjmX-M45unZVBZuxrNTjrSwsoNhPu9V3cT8NuPN9ATCliGrjZ8UgGiAe7OoFFw4iufDxzAS5-Nb4AOzfB3hhBEaSlfciTMhS3rKRTp4MCdCOvNv3m50m4/s1600/DSCF9212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNIRbA994GiWZ7s8UX-N9fDPnjmX-M45unZVBZuxrNTjrSwsoNhPu9V3cT8NuPN9ATCliGrjZ8UgGiAe7OoFFw4iufDxzAS5-Nb4AOzfB3hhBEaSlfciTMhS3rKRTp4MCdCOvNv3m50m4/s320/DSCF9212.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Otto the owl enjoying a tasty chicken bone</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xLLLMGL9LUYban6EJp0SHuVV2jnNqP1H7I1wGcD8DU5dIlR2VANF5RFSAbGig184dHkRFO2p-uaDuG3vWhlkwFSMvDRt1NhiQmo-8NFqZgTS99CPPAc3pa-WMn6GM3zqOZXyGV2N3As/s1600/DSCF9216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xLLLMGL9LUYban6EJp0SHuVV2jnNqP1H7I1wGcD8DU5dIlR2VANF5RFSAbGig184dHkRFO2p-uaDuG3vWhlkwFSMvDRt1NhiQmo-8NFqZgTS99CPPAc3pa-WMn6GM3zqOZXyGV2N3As/s320/DSCF9216.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful close up of Otto the owl</td></tr>
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And some new makes...........<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0AH5111_mP_vi4q8PfvjJm_0lkRMT76yh6GNUbn2PNUvb6y8MQJtm8gYDj0UWmTkTc6YiTOt34_CqxP2u1QowUFq42vyA7eZqnjsyPWdtDUcQipUMohh8n1V8Z4cLTGLiIx1uEbb0U4/s1600/DSCF9272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0AH5111_mP_vi4q8PfvjJm_0lkRMT76yh6GNUbn2PNUvb6y8MQJtm8gYDj0UWmTkTc6YiTOt34_CqxP2u1QowUFq42vyA7eZqnjsyPWdtDUcQipUMohh8n1V8Z4cLTGLiIx1uEbb0U4/s320/DSCF9272.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bow detail for my new jumper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDypuFACl-qgvfHyF9BnkJeEs5ltmvi_nDTX_XkjuM7UwGMVFZXv6RpMAcyEQ3A_0alTHEOPXrgqdj4YRS25IIB8YtDBdzi2gv-5zyNGRU7DuGU8jbA54JcwbGDNPP1z4D_u8f5Rnw93o/s1600/DSCF9277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDypuFACl-qgvfHyF9BnkJeEs5ltmvi_nDTX_XkjuM7UwGMVFZXv6RpMAcyEQ3A_0alTHEOPXrgqdj4YRS25IIB8YtDBdzi2gv-5zyNGRU7DuGU8jbA54JcwbGDNPP1z4D_u8f5Rnw93o/s320/DSCF9277.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new chunky knit jumper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgLupK0HmHFclrJao24SnlbaeGOy9Po8QKpIJzYwszzDu6SkxfZR7wYlXDVBz9kxg5d2eDkSoq4ZIaZGCCuQbhefyW7FTKOMx3d-wsdFy3vhEJ7X4r_AW61ejIWTQsLnSAdNBcx2taZg/s1600/DSCF9287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgLupK0HmHFclrJao24SnlbaeGOy9Po8QKpIJzYwszzDu6SkxfZR7wYlXDVBz9kxg5d2eDkSoq4ZIaZGCCuQbhefyW7FTKOMx3d-wsdFy3vhEJ7X4r_AW61ejIWTQsLnSAdNBcx2taZg/s320/DSCF9287.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love oversized jumpers......getting ready for the colder months already :)<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Love,<br />
KnittyNora xx<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-25443864795839294002013-07-29T19:50:00.002+01:002013-07-29T19:50:50.548+01:00Well, hello there! <br />
Over the last few weeks I've been trying to keep myself busy with lots of crafty projects. Since I'm not able to climb or go out walking I've had to find lots of other things to keep me busy..........<br />
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<h3>
Project one: Cable knit cushion</h3>
Here is a little look at the cable knit cushion I've been working on....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-_4rE7-Mfy6MyGLra3YmIcDVj5jT2pM3grdCFEhnfA5OKiLIR7U6Ge4t1vvoJHMxQHjI2h5e385Aghk-HTkbMcHfUmWFippF-2SbZbj0SdbVoQuu6_zFyJT-WvuVq8VZ-mTu-LQabnY/s1600/DSCF9096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-_4rE7-Mfy6MyGLra3YmIcDVj5jT2pM3grdCFEhnfA5OKiLIR7U6Ge4t1vvoJHMxQHjI2h5e385Aghk-HTkbMcHfUmWFippF-2SbZbj0SdbVoQuu6_zFyJT-WvuVq8VZ-mTu-LQabnY/s320/DSCF9096.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Triple cable </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdi7e9wi1pKEuu9Qt_imeZ4qfYpfWb9vKomOSuyGf5ndO7Fmc_j6X1QlbVIgyHr8CUEaGjE2GnSIcuovW_IytcjRs1Vqoig_P-zOPVlLmduGcwNS2jWQO5QHry3gzrZUUliOpEJ9RLgc/s1600/DSCF9098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIdi7e9wi1pKEuu9Qt_imeZ4qfYpfWb9vKomOSuyGf5ndO7Fmc_j6X1QlbVIgyHr8CUEaGjE2GnSIcuovW_IytcjRs1Vqoig_P-zOPVlLmduGcwNS2jWQO5QHry3gzrZUUliOpEJ9RLgc/s320/DSCF9098.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I've made this from a pattern I designed myself. This can be tricky but it also allows you to amend and tailor the pattern as you go along, which is great.<br />
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If anyone would like the pattern details once I've finished please get in touch......</div>
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I've made up quite a few of my own patterns and would love to know if people would like me to share them.<br />
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<h3>
Project two: Make do and mend.....continued.</h3>
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And so, another pair of cords get a make over.</div>
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Here they are before:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCh97yZL51ch1vm8bzg-cD7d793wxgmhHCnBpOfJFMQE6rzZXgRNmcR60G-LdJQiKwA-V0Eaq_ekzxrL-C09Xc9V3b5XczMjE0RdktPO4cZ_ztPVBsDqc6m9tSBGyJxaK3p5bk2NIFVhM/s1600/DSCF9094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCh97yZL51ch1vm8bzg-cD7d793wxgmhHCnBpOfJFMQE6rzZXgRNmcR60G-LdJQiKwA-V0Eaq_ekzxrL-C09Xc9V3b5XczMjE0RdktPO4cZ_ztPVBsDqc6m9tSBGyJxaK3p5bk2NIFVhM/s320/DSCF9094.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plain old cords<br />
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and here they are after I went a bit crazy with them :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_ZfmhGdYQIZit5JpmH-ho729W7XL6DFuZXeCleye3yFLeglnvqSjutSQglvnSGGxxi64QiLUePnPChtT74iQeIDi57_7VEQ7nTnWMH6PuKlx_oUo98pWqRUSo1d0PnNoTRZ3LKeiiPU/s1600/DSCF9100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_ZfmhGdYQIZit5JpmH-ho729W7XL6DFuZXeCleye3yFLeglnvqSjutSQglvnSGGxxi64QiLUePnPChtT74iQeIDi57_7VEQ7nTnWMH6PuKlx_oUo98pWqRUSo1d0PnNoTRZ3LKeiiPU/s320/DSCF9100.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My (almost finished) dungarees</td></tr>
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<div>
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What do you think? </div>
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<h3>
Project three: What to do with all this fabric?</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7vEihDz_hrnFBzI3s_wbM18ThxP8lCa6wYIOcXaEEbC5p-tDUMmLOgH642gLICcwWgWUwLM1V-1qBtHZkBGOCEwu9n6C4lSRp5X6dHa7eFiSGVzzGrRGH6gBDZ19LuZAzs7D8fnt_dPw/s1600/DSCF9101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7vEihDz_hrnFBzI3s_wbM18ThxP8lCa6wYIOcXaEEbC5p-tDUMmLOgH642gLICcwWgWUwLM1V-1qBtHZkBGOCEwu9n6C4lSRp5X6dHa7eFiSGVzzGrRGH6gBDZ19LuZAzs7D8fnt_dPw/s320/DSCF9101.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A selection of my new fabrics</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVU77aOVwUWu0WBnQMXi67NMPhAc54Xrr4Upd_mSicCi7jdGwlvTBzFkpTGm651RUhF6pqjo_22Hz8cB5AJnFkrrmj9Ce6zgg6bvOvqdfy08dVBqyu3SvFIavMbK-ZsilZXRgilqH0yQ/s1600/DSCF9105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVU77aOVwUWu0WBnQMXi67NMPhAc54Xrr4Upd_mSicCi7jdGwlvTBzFkpTGm651RUhF6pqjo_22Hz8cB5AJnFkrrmj9Ce6zgg6bvOvqdfy08dVBqyu3SvFIavMbK-ZsilZXRgilqH0yQ/s320/DSCF9105.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice little close up</td></tr>
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And so.....what does a girl do with all this fabric (and a few more pieces stashed away!)?!<br />
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I'm thinking a couple of new skirts and possibly a dress....... what do you think?<br />
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I'm off to play with my sewing machine......pop back soon for a peek at my complete cushion and perhaps a peek at something new :)<br />
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Best wishes,<br />
KnittyNora xx</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-9251928706534661622013-07-20T18:08:00.001+01:002013-07-20T18:08:13.653+01:00Boungiorno! Come stai?<h2>
Ciao!</h2>
<h4>
.........don't worry, you haven't clicked on the wrong blog..........I'm just practising my Italian :)</h4>
Given that I'm off work for the time being I thought I should use the time wisely and productively. Yes, I always have my crafty creations to keep me busy but I wanted to learn something new and exciting. For me, that is a new language. Now, many years ago I used to sing in many different languages (when you're a classically trained singer you kind of have to) but I never really learnt a language properly, or well enough to hold a proper conversation......besides from a bit of French and German at school. I've always loved Italy and the Italian language, so..............here goes......wish me luck! :)<br />
<br />
Can anyone recommend any resources for learning languages?<br />
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I'm currently using a combination of BBC CD/book combo, a phrase book and an Italian dictionary.<br />
<h2>
<b>On the craft front</b></h2>
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Well, it wouldn't be an All You Need Is Craft blog post without a little bit about my crafty makes.....<br />
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I'm finding knitting in this weather rather difficult......never thought I'd say that! However, I'm trying to persevere with the cable knit cushion I'm making for a friend. I've also been sent some lovely cotton yarn from <a href="http://www.kollabora.com/" target="_blank">Kollabora</a> which should make a lovely vest style top for the Summer months.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SgVDmhHiR39mBGla5nxn8Jg2tonRnogHimAP-iTgO71jCsFrUWcQSj-YbuSLfX0T0baH-qFfuoIzC0VL6gbQcd7Hwme1alxBxam-pF0hLkWBn7UfEJPXRDt_8yjQput3Jf9OuCJqANA/s1600/DSCF9072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SgVDmhHiR39mBGla5nxn8Jg2tonRnogHimAP-iTgO71jCsFrUWcQSj-YbuSLfX0T0baH-qFfuoIzC0VL6gbQcd7Hwme1alxBxam-pF0hLkWBn7UfEJPXRDt_8yjQput3Jf9OuCJqANA/s320/DSCF9072.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just the right colour for me too! :)</td></tr>
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And here's what I managed to make with some scraps of material and a few other bits and bobs I had lying around...................</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlihUChThpezgfaGxfNJI2a0sXkL41TlPQH-pnNJsRA5vvmYoVglQMjsfWisOjnCuO_r7JkRtMGH5m3rUddl_RTvuauO_WG3qlqL5kMy2fJvpucCJ79vAIJgZTEDkezzoFd_vwvfIJQ-w/s1600/DSCF9091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlihUChThpezgfaGxfNJI2a0sXkL41TlPQH-pnNJsRA5vvmYoVglQMjsfWisOjnCuO_r7JkRtMGH5m3rUddl_RTvuauO_WG3qlqL5kMy2fJvpucCJ79vAIJgZTEDkezzoFd_vwvfIJQ-w/s320/DSCF9091.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flower power brooch</td></tr>
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Pop over to my Facebook page for a few more pics and further details: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/allyouneediscraft" target="_blank">All you need is craft Facebook page</a></div>
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<h2>
Out and about in the sun</h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0gcFO2ZpSUzQRRYbUjlmDgZG5Doy7h52vy6ZTS2e6AuU6DhnvF-VXdy6LHrwmU9BoNWzQ8Sp_2YLLkn6P0Tu-NgOx0-IDfVI0Y4mZFb_Ka04a6BEBnoJzarfQqqcprs4bdyub5r7xuU/s1600/DSCF9055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0gcFO2ZpSUzQRRYbUjlmDgZG5Doy7h52vy6ZTS2e6AuU6DhnvF-VXdy6LHrwmU9BoNWzQ8Sp_2YLLkn6P0Tu-NgOx0-IDfVI0Y4mZFb_Ka04a6BEBnoJzarfQqqcprs4bdyub5r7xuU/s320/DSCF9055.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching the fishing boats...........</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MLoVdguGwvuNYDNRRxSrLvpkuuhrHvDlmgc30u6XRAR90KmRfUzeBrcQJUh_U7MvExr08s7SbpTBVhvpXMwCGlljtvuNlPBQvMO6lsvwZpVD1XiSUBiXhbT_IQF2M3K2orSrsamFr6g/s1600/DSCF9063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MLoVdguGwvuNYDNRRxSrLvpkuuhrHvDlmgc30u6XRAR90KmRfUzeBrcQJUh_U7MvExr08s7SbpTBVhvpXMwCGlljtvuNlPBQvMO6lsvwZpVD1XiSUBiXhbT_IQF2M3K2orSrsamFr6g/s320/DSCF9063.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">.........checking the nets for a catch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
When I'm not making, creating and trying to learn Italian, I've been trying to get out in the sunshine. A few days ago my husband took me to one of our favourite beach spots. It's completely shut off from anywhere else which means that it is the perfect spot for a quiet picnic and a nap (yes, I did say nap!). It's also a popular climbing spot, so whilst my husband climbed some boulders I took the time to lie in the shade, watch the fishing boats and have a lazy, sunny afternoon snooze.........perfect! </div>
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Hope you've all been enjoying the weather, wherever you are :)<br />
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Ciao!<br />
KnittyNora xxxxx<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-71268749381021516792013-07-16T15:22:00.000+01:002013-07-16T15:22:05.440+01:00Summer craftingSun, sun, sun! It's everywhere!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFXY9kUWM6aZvbj0TWwmKPsh2Ebp1HxWbrQh059y1KQqso1HyJSaRyNPQvY7qfD90-tL6ngtrWFMDV5XmkXlx7Bp45Z_rG4NT4DODQXFiOR9CaS4UDrxD2MjLwpEEs-en_WoD5vBmV1I/s1600/DSCF8986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFXY9kUWM6aZvbj0TWwmKPsh2Ebp1HxWbrQh059y1KQqso1HyJSaRyNPQvY7qfD90-tL6ngtrWFMDV5XmkXlx7Bp45Z_rG4NT4DODQXFiOR9CaS4UDrxD2MjLwpEEs-en_WoD5vBmV1I/s320/DSCF8986.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I LOVE a bit of sunshine, especially when I've got nothing else to do but relax in my little garden and eat ice cream......and not forgetting a bit of alfresco crafting. As you will have seen from a previous post, I have been busy altering some old clothes into new, summer friendly outfits.<br />
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Here is a picture of my finished skirt............I'm actually quite proud of this :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJZ1G_kPSLkvgct1mwMqAhFcGRxgl-ao1q0WFMCRdqyRpPd4YqdyNk_HMufzbRdPc-y7cUO6I3uhQHQ9THwJ8ClMiYEU2OeLPADFkZH8aG1i29b-EUgZu9unYHv3vxBndg9Vtzcb_hso/s1600/DSCF9040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJZ1G_kPSLkvgct1mwMqAhFcGRxgl-ao1q0WFMCRdqyRpPd4YqdyNk_HMufzbRdPc-y7cUO6I3uhQHQ9THwJ8ClMiYEU2OeLPADFkZH8aG1i29b-EUgZu9unYHv3vxBndg9Vtzcb_hso/s320/DSCF9040.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished article</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSNblouSLzWZ2n3z10a_Q7w0OnyzqwfDwaEirKk9s2hSzJs73ah8D0fu9Z6C7tLuix08IDHiZfjIxYB6ZELA_hQDnfclp-LbJSTXR40xtpKmXWOlAitpSDgAkt2VlUWVPYtxu_1eVsyU/s1600/DSCF9037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSNblouSLzWZ2n3z10a_Q7w0OnyzqwfDwaEirKk9s2hSzJs73ah8D0fu9Z6C7tLuix08IDHiZfjIxYB6ZELA_hQDnfclp-LbJSTXR40xtpKmXWOlAitpSDgAkt2VlUWVPYtxu_1eVsyU/s320/DSCF9037.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5UWkZZvTVq9xKBkCIz9kgBirIR2iWOXRiQf_gHTgJqe-oIQaNLuxm7qHBa7ZnR5YmQVjuTobX0W319fAt9h-s9-jUrsZuoc8eJqs_xxvBLTzmPyZtSl2cDVXozG7Q-8jFgoeJBQ11tGQ/s1600/new+skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5UWkZZvTVq9xKBkCIz9kgBirIR2iWOXRiQf_gHTgJqe-oIQaNLuxm7qHBa7ZnR5YmQVjuTobX0W319fAt9h-s9-jUrsZuoc8eJqs_xxvBLTzmPyZtSl2cDVXozG7Q-8jFgoeJBQ11tGQ/s320/new+skirt.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As modelled by me</td></tr>
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As well as being on a 'mend and make do' mission, I've also been creating some new knitting patterns. I really enjoy making up my own patterns. They can take a while to work out and I sometimes have to make adjustments (as I change my mind about the finished item) but find the whole activity really fulfilling. There's nothing quite like receiving compliments on an item you've designed and created yourself.<br />
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Here is a little something I've been working on....................<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflBlgbnMfzPTGVxf7Edy_nrR8TMWEgKe1AkUDmyXR2FbjK0LJQzThGs_oOq83at44ghgMA1UhIf7aHEDQCfhM7FTQdQbGeRKX7XrqeX7qQuAVoKpFRLfY9mm8STakERTIknxAprQHK0w/s1600/DSCF9051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflBlgbnMfzPTGVxf7Edy_nrR8TMWEgKe1AkUDmyXR2FbjK0LJQzThGs_oOq83at44ghgMA1UhIf7aHEDQCfhM7FTQdQbGeRKX7XrqeX7qQuAVoKpFRLfY9mm8STakERTIknxAprQHK0w/s320/DSCF9051.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A work in progress......... cable knit cushion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Have any of you ever designed and created your own crafty creations? I'd love to hear about them and/or see some pics :)<br />
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Lots of love,<br />
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KnittyNora xx<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-52927572342263151962013-07-10T09:37:00.001+01:002013-07-10T11:45:37.505+01:00As time goes by..........And so......another month has gone by since my last post. Unfortunately this is because of poor health rather my being too busy to post :(<br />
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Another trip to the specialist resulted with me spending another week in hospital...... I think I may need to start another blog for just my hospital visits! :) Thankfully, it seems that they may be closer to solving my health issues since the new team I've seen seem to know what's wrong......somewhat of a relief!<br />
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With feeling poorly much of the time I haven't had much energy for making. I have, however, done my very best to fit in some making when I can. This has mainly taken the shape of some baby bits and bobs for my friends who have recently had their first child. He is so sweet. I really love making things for other people.<br />
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Here is a little snap of one of the items:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQv70ozzbosIa6kxh_kTCXgoeBcNl8DCApJabZuAW2L62SK-8urfUMeVOOt1dt8d6biA4dQfB1aeYr5YIswEQXO9iJ04Hk2nICKYZf5qV06tk65M9IjbWIOhhVrUn4Krg7pLX4mcRCWA/s1600/DSCF8958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQv70ozzbosIa6kxh_kTCXgoeBcNl8DCApJabZuAW2L62SK-8urfUMeVOOt1dt8d6biA4dQfB1aeYr5YIswEQXO9iJ04Hk2nICKYZf5qV06tk65M9IjbWIOhhVrUn4Krg7pLX4mcRCWA/s320/DSCF8958.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super cute little baby hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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With the weather changing here and there I've been making the most of sunny days by sitting in the garden and getting some help from my husband to plant some seeds and new plants. He is great at carrying pots and compost and I have the patience to sit and watch the plants grow....perfect combo :)<br />
(I posted some pics of my plants in my last post....)<br />
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Unfortunately, some very naughty slugs and snails have decided that my little plants are so tasty they have decided to eat most of them :(<br />
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Anyone got any tips for keeping my veggies safe??!!<br />
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Speaking of projects....<br />
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Here's what I did with an old pair of cord trousers that were too big......<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMjHDpi_S5EdHPWw2XcJPDyjsASikuenXaMMaakk0xJBBKyM1PScwcQPEug4NCUmk5PeR_KltEWxSBPlPTya-hUi4Dt4u7zJyDZcBkKROrww3BeVGpuAHY_UOBuUe6U-dTs9pzITjLjQ/s1600/DSCF8948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMjHDpi_S5EdHPWw2XcJPDyjsASikuenXaMMaakk0xJBBKyM1PScwcQPEug4NCUmk5PeR_KltEWxSBPlPTya-hUi4Dt4u7zJyDZcBkKROrww3BeVGpuAHY_UOBuUe6U-dTs9pzITjLjQ/s320/DSCF8948.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting off the legs.........</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-kG1ybxk_WfvQxl7uTvqbmCaM7WnKBe8Nx71mOdZOYfZcw1w6UjdIqDWxpmf81pzj7sQ1HU7TKFl0KYP34GlOtSLEWYNu435daNmyty4GdJ2i2Sp9wbQTz18X-Puka_rzHceMRuG5Lo/s1600/DSCF8943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-kG1ybxk_WfvQxl7uTvqbmCaM7WnKBe8Nx71mOdZOYfZcw1w6UjdIqDWxpmf81pzj7sQ1HU7TKFl0KYP34GlOtSLEWYNu435daNmyty4GdJ2i2Sp9wbQTz18X-Puka_rzHceMRuG5Lo/s320/DSCF8943.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening and restitching the seams around the bottom area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As you can see, I've chopped them up and made a low waisted skirt. Perfect for any season and great with a chunky belt. Just need to finish the hem :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRY95tOUSv0lqp53qCrdp9k6szvnGHfVzgZh8Vn0he3NYEYzWJH3_s-X5oEvY80AnNxUdEcOV3y7tDIF-DZBGBkdaY81fF8rERrvR0oBNjs0MAZ5qYkEfj84BBauN3qLKRjTJn7FpJIlc/s1600/DSCF8952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRY95tOUSv0lqp53qCrdp9k6szvnGHfVzgZh8Vn0he3NYEYzWJH3_s-X5oEvY80AnNxUdEcOV3y7tDIF-DZBGBkdaY81fF8rERrvR0oBNjs0MAZ5qYkEfj84BBauN3qLKRjTJn7FpJIlc/s320/DSCF8952.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not much to do now......<br />
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</tbody></table>
and so........off I go to pin the hem of my new skirt.....<br />
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hope you're all enjoying the sunshine :)<br />
<br />
KnittyNora xx<br />
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P.s. The hat was made using a pattern from Debbie Bliss's 'The knitter's year'. The pattern is called 'Striped baby hat'.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-19436666890958372992013-06-09T11:25:00.000+01:002013-06-09T11:25:22.163+01:00Sunny Sunday - crafting in the great outdoors. <br />
Let me set the scene for you.............<br />
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The sun is shining, the husband is out walking up mountains and I'm home alone with my crafting goodies.<br />
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Sounds good....?! :)<br />
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As some of you will be aware, I have been rather poorly recently and so my ability to go out chasing my husband up mountains is zero. Rather than dwell on my lack of energy for the outdoor activities I love so much I've decided to make the most of today and my brighter mood by doing the following:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Writing an update to my much neglected blog</li>
<li>Get back to some knitting and finish a top I started a while back</li>
<li>Sit in the garden with a glass of cloudy lemonade</li>
<li>Eat dinner in the garden</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>Well......why not combine the lot?! </b></div>
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<b>Great plan, KnittyNora! :)</b></div>
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And so, I'm off to sit in my garden, finish that knitted top and drink cloudy lemonade. When the husband gets back I'm sure he could rustle up something on the BBQ....... sounds like a great day!<br />
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Speaking of my garden.........<br />
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.....here is a little pic of my 'developing' wild flower patch in the corner of my garden - my little contribution to encourage wildlife to come and visit my garden.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTQnaSmKExmyfYPxPwfoHXYr32QnXeB3aBQyn90bPBWSXFognhYy7V9m_XOCMoHPlv3L_6gSbFiMRFSqbLN2HMab7ZwXekRzYDZLW0YUq6nL2hRg_tgGc-YDsmpli4t5X9JfqIWq_wnQ/s1600/DSCF8903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTQnaSmKExmyfYPxPwfoHXYr32QnXeB3aBQyn90bPBWSXFognhYy7V9m_XOCMoHPlv3L_6gSbFiMRFSqbLN2HMab7ZwXekRzYDZLW0YUq6nL2hRg_tgGc-YDsmpli4t5X9JfqIWq_wnQ/s320/DSCF8903.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">We've since added some wild and fragrant flower seeds to the patch and just waiting for them to grow<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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</tbody></table>
....and some pics of my brand new veggie grow bags :)<br /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHC6Su-PQJFJFTDkzb02Ihl0XYf8E4B2YJLsIGIXtiozI9ElFYyhkDGReA9u1lbKiIGm_OoceIszVZeY8GwDLWdaRKZHfvZewinBZtLXfKABRBVUAdOKSlhgcmuwb9F4cbhCRN7pn52fc/s1600/CAM00018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHC6Su-PQJFJFTDkzb02Ihl0XYf8E4B2YJLsIGIXtiozI9ElFYyhkDGReA9u1lbKiIGm_OoceIszVZeY8GwDLWdaRKZHfvZewinBZtLXfKABRBVUAdOKSlhgcmuwb9F4cbhCRN7pn52fc/s320/CAM00018.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New veggie grow bags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDWozXxIUcmTlLAKLcnNf7GmpSp0Q8ghe2xkl4VMXkBmm39oOKwWCULm6DkTDpVgV6p22S8uHUOgBeV9lSg61kkRa1P58HoZvuj4eZ5mZxcV-_yyEGM7eQ0unjdo1I9OTEEqMcELzbHg/s1600/CAM00021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDWozXxIUcmTlLAKLcnNf7GmpSp0Q8ghe2xkl4VMXkBmm39oOKwWCULm6DkTDpVgV6p22S8uHUOgBeV9lSg61kkRa1P58HoZvuj4eZ5mZxcV-_yyEGM7eQ0unjdo1I9OTEEqMcELzbHg/s320/CAM00021.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomatoes just starting to pop their heads out</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqEUF2K3wJTFnUdaO0I0Lr4Znn5NrBotCLButIFOYUOh52ofaHpa1jD2l__JlMoabUUyfBwXsOUHd0-UpEtJP4FdJnBHzl2Q4uNwy9Z4lkhCKjyH6afOUubcxsAkpGvMvyQty7P5s-lG4/s1600/CAM00020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqEUF2K3wJTFnUdaO0I0Lr4Znn5NrBotCLButIFOYUOh52ofaHpa1jD2l__JlMoabUUyfBwXsOUHd0-UpEtJP4FdJnBHzl2Q4uNwy9Z4lkhCKjyH6afOUubcxsAkpGvMvyQty7P5s-lG4/s320/CAM00020.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrots</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
I'll be heading south later in the week for another investigative operation.....wish me luck! </div>
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Wishing you all the very sunniest of Sundays,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
KnittyNora xxxx<br />
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<b><i> </i></b><b><i>Some </i></b><b><i>happy stuff:</i></b><br />
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I recently entered and came first in a competition run by the lovely folks at 33Hearts (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/33hearts" target="_blank">http://www.etsy.com/shop/33hearts</a>) </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QLk05Czz3luIMJPwAnkji-iMf_giM0WWJNcwRGGru65_dlAF0VRVxM57YfwcSKdnsq0GRZMPhpvhdJJOzpYywjD_jKnRnSvM_-KV3Tsr44dES-ye6B8C_kenkphi5yZafV73B5_NKEo/s1600/941588_10201279428574881_1398666841_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QLk05Czz3luIMJPwAnkji-iMf_giM0WWJNcwRGGru65_dlAF0VRVxM57YfwcSKdnsq0GRZMPhpvhdJJOzpYywjD_jKnRnSvM_-KV3Tsr44dES-ye6B8C_kenkphi5yZafV73B5_NKEo/s320/941588_10201279428574881_1398666841_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is just one of the lovely items I won</td></tr>
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<br />Please pop over and say hi to them. They are very friendly and make some very cute items :)<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-49664099437399814112013-05-17T13:27:00.002+01:002013-05-17T13:27:54.550+01:00A birthday, some new toys and a little inspiration.Goodness me, it's been over two weeks since my last post.......... Ooops!<br />
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As many of you may already know, I have been rather poorly over the last few months and still have to juggle the good days (when pain is low) and the bad days (when all I can do is sleep). Since I'm unable to work at the moment I have been making the most of my time by reading craft blogs and seeking out inspiration from other makers and some beautiful new books I have recently acquired.<br />
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Yesterday was my birthday - happy birthday me!<br />
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I'm absolutely rubbish at asking for things so this year my husband got me to save weblinks to anything I liked in a special folder on the computer so that he knew what to get and could help friends and family decide what to get me too - GREAT idea! I don't feel awkward for asking and I know that people will be able to get me something that means a lot to me - in my case that's knitting books!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVM4e83jLCbmn7PB3oEMzQ95FywIn4czKUe4GpaTpRecZDrEgUDmds7KOFuBoXFvnaX3fjfxxsW5CNekBOncUgFdDDzhx3KC_bc_l-dk0QFky6X-C2xQVZxgBKBEiaCGeiv8r6FWW4BA/s1600/DSCF8815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVM4e83jLCbmn7PB3oEMzQ95FywIn4czKUe4GpaTpRecZDrEgUDmds7KOFuBoXFvnaX3fjfxxsW5CNekBOncUgFdDDzhx3KC_bc_l-dk0QFky6X-C2xQVZxgBKBEiaCGeiv8r6FWW4BA/s320/DSCF8815.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This year I also added a sewing machine to the list and a fantastic sewing book that I came across thanks to Kollabora (I LOVE that site). I didn't want anything too fancy since I am basically a beginner.<br />
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My tick list consisted of these main points:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Cheap</li>
<li>Suitable for a beginner - easy to use!</li>
<li>Fairly lightweight so that I can move it on my own. </li>
<li>Basic range of stitches covered.</li>
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Thanks to my husband and Beldray, we found just that.......................</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEyjpWBEsh3LCIl98iFXfmhkEx4RcA8ZVLbSt5hUxjkuofpaIfRAiNJiy-KkpJJlADSs5PJVgTc-Ppj1vd1hvB5XQ3JdvnJFOhxYRGs-U-gnTuPBCgmTnLPe2lgLMSwSs8-7ZmFVOp2g/s1600/DSCF8812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEyjpWBEsh3LCIl98iFXfmhkEx4RcA8ZVLbSt5hUxjkuofpaIfRAiNJiy-KkpJJlADSs5PJVgTc-Ppj1vd1hvB5XQ3JdvnJFOhxYRGs-U-gnTuPBCgmTnLPe2lgLMSwSs8-7ZmFVOp2g/s320/DSCF8812.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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As a little treat on my birthday my husband took me to a fabric shop so that I could find some delicious fabric for my first official make on the new sewing machine. I found some beautiful material on sale - £5 a metre!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioyV4gq8ACXm3Qqu7hUCg3am6wXbCBMHA4M5P5kqf33iGAYTImfySA60cqjS67_yFb6YQhGXdZS0NTvflTwvSUWEmJ_CTbmLmAb3zofz19CqWZEDfY_defyB9uipKrfJOn7Um5Oh6_xM/s1600/DSCF8809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioyV4gq8ACXm3Qqu7hUCg3am6wXbCBMHA4M5P5kqf33iGAYTImfySA60cqjS67_yFb6YQhGXdZS0NTvflTwvSUWEmJ_CTbmLmAb3zofz19CqWZEDfY_defyB9uipKrfJOn7Um5Oh6_xM/s320/DSCF8809.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9rMasWiG1dQttw284Y4l0yA7mIoye8ujS1s26InTZodOoDj3Y_eRgUbFJ_-dJxIf5lnCBQKd4iAxtCRebh0NXBMtVtAHiauld6uQ5HSesUMReJtkILNr9smZ7YQxg9seeYj6C3njpiA/s1600/DSCF8810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs9rMasWiG1dQttw284Y4l0yA7mIoye8ujS1s26InTZodOoDj3Y_eRgUbFJ_-dJxIf5lnCBQKd4iAxtCRebh0NXBMtVtAHiauld6uQ5HSesUMReJtkILNr9smZ7YQxg9seeYj6C3njpiA/s320/DSCF8810.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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To start though, I thought I'd start with some fabric my husband's great aunt (Auntie Pat) gave me to play with.........so that I could practice my stitches and measuring skills :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmwk6__366jAfAM4WZyUqPLF-F8mkyWkLm2KJO8cghSVXUiSvh3VnnNCZzNC4zixyp1Iuo_TaqxKiMIFdMPCeHK21I9EYMP1mW4KhMrCz_JiKlukCD6VHYf6qSlGoQLEA-rVKIK2eyFY/s1600/DSCF8796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmwk6__366jAfAM4WZyUqPLF-F8mkyWkLm2KJO8cghSVXUiSvh3VnnNCZzNC4zixyp1Iuo_TaqxKiMIFdMPCeHK21I9EYMP1mW4KhMrCz_JiKlukCD6VHYf6qSlGoQLEA-rVKIK2eyFY/s320/DSCF8796.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Pinning my seams</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jhecOpzji5h-CSnCBANI9eDUncMQys8L3cahAx096L4TMWDTgJXLyLMlIZPIuNttJk1MLKNbSUC8fwtW_wObgoq_Jaaf0a38HA6uVK-QegKln2jri-KtGn2RKOuhVjYYZREoLMnGrBU/s1600/DSCF8799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jhecOpzji5h-CSnCBANI9eDUncMQys8L3cahAx096L4TMWDTgJXLyLMlIZPIuNttJk1MLKNbSUC8fwtW_wObgoq_Jaaf0a38HA6uVK-QegKln2jri-KtGn2RKOuhVjYYZREoLMnGrBU/s320/DSCF8799.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful floral fabric from Auntie Pat</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EYezHGczriZ24L2pUuKq8OqqGGgAPK3Bu4v7h176KEhIz15wnsq6OfMZ2wyL61ZNikxj4P9LTwuGZbb1yMQS62zUaeNKsVRoUW5yJZFWCWbq2gEGuPR8N_gnFVSKPbVL_-FXHIQOeiM/s1600/DSCF8802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EYezHGczriZ24L2pUuKq8OqqGGgAPK3Bu4v7h176KEhIz15wnsq6OfMZ2wyL61ZNikxj4P9LTwuGZbb1yMQS62zUaeNKsVRoUW5yJZFWCWbq2gEGuPR8N_gnFVSKPbVL_-FXHIQOeiM/s320/DSCF8802.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Neat little side seam</div>
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Here is a link to the skirt I'm going to make:<br />
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<a href="http://www.kollabora.com/community/sewing/projects/one-hour-skirt" target="_blank">http://www.kollabora.com/community/sewing/projects/one-hour-skirt</a><br />
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I'm so glad to have my hobby to keep me company whilst I'm at home. I'd love to hear if any of you have a new projects on the go.....??<br />
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I'll be back soon with some updates on the skirt :)<br />
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Love and best,<br />
KnittyNora xx<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-12050675242246484822013-04-30T13:29:00.000+01:002013-04-30T13:29:44.778+01:00Cushion or strapless top?........you decideHere's a little something that I started on recently. It's a pattern I've created myself and therefore leaves lots of room for alteration and experimentation - my favourite!<br />
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A few cheeky snaps:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGv-Z89v1e6FeMoapcfBWx-uA3MxuowtYNaUg2Gj6Zd59r5jOxWGns6Lz_58dEbELxf-ctpkaB8JptpVdk7a6J8BIVvv4_WWTnqAl2Pe-NA5ncl3CDEnNuJyMxHLFbtAjiHAI1w6YnfdE/s1600/DSCF8693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGv-Z89v1e6FeMoapcfBWx-uA3MxuowtYNaUg2Gj6Zd59r5jOxWGns6Lz_58dEbELxf-ctpkaB8JptpVdk7a6J8BIVvv4_WWTnqAl2Pe-NA5ncl3CDEnNuJyMxHLFbtAjiHAI1w6YnfdE/s320/DSCF8693.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple cable detail</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00MWjY8UsTQ90D1CyZHLAtbTZTsmiYgQGm9Jii7RiByI3n_TZxyBaRTVfyAN75o0Ypdmf8c1K2tFPsLUFYphxtc88IPpoW3wEmc7bJcQuhVIYEe2VxEtBm7bFKkogN497ROr5MREl64k/s1600/DSCF8696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00MWjY8UsTQ90D1CyZHLAtbTZTsmiYgQGm9Jii7RiByI3n_TZxyBaRTVfyAN75o0Ypdmf8c1K2tFPsLUFYphxtc88IPpoW3wEmc7bJcQuhVIYEe2VxEtBm7bFKkogN497ROr5MREl64k/s320/DSCF8696.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmmmmm.....what should it be?</td></tr>
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Well.......it began as a cushion but I have to admit that I am very tempted to turn this little number into a strapless top for moi too :) Although.....could be both! A perfect excuse to go out shopping for more yarn.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVcsngaOxkChUpt_3l9-e6zIxr-vAWC9dRbY7CYVAKA5vN3DDyp4LmxAAJ1i8LlrbeisEm7hikkMwEG1Y5KRMs4cN5osLrwbwd6evFBnj4vC2eYBTTnuzWn2kJQH4HXCfsp31V-CJiVI/s1600/DSCF8660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVcsngaOxkChUpt_3l9-e6zIxr-vAWC9dRbY7CYVAKA5vN3DDyp4LmxAAJ1i8LlrbeisEm7hikkMwEG1Y5KRMs4cN5osLrwbwd6evFBnj4vC2eYBTTnuzWn2kJQH4HXCfsp31V-CJiVI/s320/DSCF8660.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old skool sexy back sweater</td></tr>
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I'm pleased to report that my old skool sweater (above and previous post) was featured on the Kollabora Facebook page. I was so pleased when I found my little top highlighted on their page......I was just a little bit proud and very excited. If you haven't discovered Kollabora yet.................do it!<br />
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Kollabora website: <a href="http://kollabora.com/" target="_blank">http://kollabora.com/</a><br />
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My featured item: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kollabora" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/kollabora</a><br />
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Please let me know what you think my latest creation should be...........<br />
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KnittyNora xxxUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2209119443241603975.post-924599035905786852013-04-25T20:01:00.000+01:002013-04-25T20:01:05.736+01:00Putting the pieces together...........I'm pleased to say that since picking up my knitting needles again I have been able to finish a project I started before going into hospital.<br />
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Here is a picture of the pattern.....................<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8bybkag8gZY6jSytnGf8q7dpArhbaYoLzjXDy33wJgK6ipk7nbMkEjoz_4_sZIC3kkaXnFoV11QRcyztQdI_OstTcF_FutS5loY0TZ-E5DjcPNE7INTVXmSw8C0GU-5_4vcndDsgs0Q/s1600/DSCF8227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8bybkag8gZY6jSytnGf8q7dpArhbaYoLzjXDy33wJgK6ipk7nbMkEjoz_4_sZIC3kkaXnFoV11QRcyztQdI_OstTcF_FutS5loY0TZ-E5DjcPNE7INTVXmSw8C0GU-5_4vcndDsgs0Q/s320/DSCF8227.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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and........here is the finished article!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-w3FHaltpwIrNY_xLrDPKIFkDCjyqKvXnrKPwjFG6SADgHcJyfont8P1sNqmpA5jsBlwo4DccbiRBSJ44tIbazMqKiW5wbNDBQEC-1e7lrflppmCer-Msxo89wZ4mtnszXfxDd5IqTI/s1600/DSCF8660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-w3FHaltpwIrNY_xLrDPKIFkDCjyqKvXnrKPwjFG6SADgHcJyfont8P1sNqmpA5jsBlwo4DccbiRBSJ44tIbazMqKiW5wbNDBQEC-1e7lrflppmCer-Msxo89wZ4mtnszXfxDd5IqTI/s320/DSCF8660.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Low cut, crossover back detail</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDrTdYqUHl7KHUODekZSN1dDOn-4uM11ru42YeH8YIwm94wep3xn7xTbox8qHe6TxSXYd4ltASkXeG8B7hN02JqeZB1V8nDn5j-MrYQOjDVFFHFhG7SlJbBUNPqQdxO-PDl2J5rNQcPU/s1600/DSCF8661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDrTdYqUHl7KHUODekZSN1dDOn-4uM11ru42YeH8YIwm94wep3xn7xTbox8qHe6TxSXYd4ltASkXeG8B7hN02JqeZB1V8nDn5j-MrYQOjDVFFHFhG7SlJbBUNPqQdxO-PDl2J5rNQcPU/s320/DSCF8661.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple neckline. Perfect little number for wearing with jeans or a pretty summer skirt</td></tr>
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<br />As you can see, I have altered the pattern so that the top is sleeveless. I wanted to make something suitable for the summer months which can also be transformed into a cosy autumnal number with the addition of a long sleeve t-shirt underneath.<div>
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What do you think?</div>
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KnittyNora xxx<br /><br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1