Darcy's Knotty Knitter

We Are Still Alive And Kicking:)

2011-10-05T00:08:00.000-07:00

Hubby has been gone a month and we still have 15 days to go I'm so exhausted but the girls are doing well in school and a friend took a picture of us at church on Sunday wanted to check in with everyone and let you know hopefully by November should be back to knitting and posting:)(((Hugs)))Darcy

G is For Grandma:)

2011-09-11T07:56:00.000-07:00

My oldest Daughter had her first baby Sept 1 2011 Silas he was 6 pounds and 3 ounces.

I was so tickled and have some knitting to do for my little grandson:)
My hubby is gone on a tdy for 6 weeks already been gone a week we sent him this picture of Myself and Alora & Athena to cheer him up.

I'm hoping the next 5 weeks goes by quickly as my Birthday is October 25th and I want a date with hubby:)
What have you been up to?(((Hugs)))Darcy

Constantinople The Owl:)

2011-09-02T23:41:00.000-07:00

Constantinople, has the owl constellation on his tummy and inside it too!
There are some gold bubbles that can be seen through his window-like front.
Georgie made C out of Triton, a reduction glass from Double Helix, and it has turned shades of blue as well as breaking into iridescent streaky cream striations (let's call them space clouds) . His ears are Mystic Grey, a translucent grey glass and his eyes are wonderful multi-hued nebulae.
I won this gorgeous blown glass owl from a blog giveaway at The Glass Owl November 22 2009.
I finally picked out my beads and accessories and made this wonderful and very special necklace:)
Thankyou Georgie for your generous gift it means so much to me:)
A little about the artist:
All beads are made by Georgie with enthusiasm and care in her home studio in Melbourne, Australia from Moretti/Effetre, Vetrofond, German and/or American glasses.

This was my entery comment that was picked:
My grandmother collected owls and when she passed away I got to pick out a white owl statue I keep it in my china hutch.
I found a story about owls:
The Owl was associated with the Greek goddess Pallas Athena. Soldiers have held the Owl as a special bird because it stays awake at night, which is the hardest time for soldiers to stay awake.
Some Native Americans see the Owl as the symbol of the soul.
I like this as my hubby is Airforce and our youngest daughter age 3 is Athena.
If I won the owl I would go to my local bead shop and make a necklace to wear:)
The owl reminds me of my grandmother she was always looking out for me ((((Hugs))))Darcy

"O Becky Your So Naughty" Baldwin's Little Sister

2011-08-18T00:21:00.000-07:00

˙·٠•●♥ “O Becky Your So Naughty” is a Bathroom Monster who loves accessories and will dump out all the pretties trying to find just the right ones for dolling up but cleaning up is not her thing"♥●•··˙

Athena loves accessories and loves to get dressed up so I knew just what kind of Monster to knit her:)

I had fun learned how to embroider with embroidery floss and with yarn and how to make felt flowers and accessories.

The girls start school Monday one will be going into Kindegarten the other 2nd grade their very excitted :)

Larry Crowne Video Knitting Joke:)

2011-07-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

Tom Hanks and crew on set of Larry Crowne play a cute knitting joke on Julia Roberts so sweet:)

˙·٠•●♥ Summer Bliss ♥●•··˙

2011-07-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

Last time I blogged alot was happening and I was feeling overwhelmed so hubby in his infinite wisdom sent me home.
I bought "The Big Book Of Knitted Monsters" By Rebecca Danger
I knit a Monster for Alora his name is Naughty Baldwin The Bathroom Monster.
I had some Yummy Malabrigo in a colorway that reminds me of my Summer's as a girl chasing the ice cream truck to buy a creamsicle on a hot day.
I bought the skein from SandraSingh.com
Alora loves her Monster and I'm knitting one for Athena right now in Malabrigo Colorway Cuarzo a lovely lilac:)

I visited my Son and Grandson and got some knitting time with friends and relaxed it was a therapeutic trip.
I spent 3 days with my son celebrated his 26Th birthday went out to eat went to the movies and we got pictures taken together:)
I spent my Grandsons last day of Kindegarten with him at his school and went to his Graduation the following day so special.
We are still working on health issues mine and Alora's are getting better but we haven't figured out Athena's yet but we will.
Everything has broken down or had to be replaced this year like washer & dryer ,vacuum,lawnmower,vehicles but we just deal with things as they come.
I'm taking time to just spend lazy days with the girls watching movies or reading them stories and cooking light healthy recipes for my family.
The Summer is going by quickly school starts next month.
Hopefully I will start to be a more frequent blogger until then tell me about your Summer:)

Tough Stuff Just Keep Your Chin Up:)

2011-04-09T00:09:00.000-07:00

I find out next week the results of my bloodwork the doctor believes I have an autoimmune disease.
Alora has had an abdominal x-ray and ultrasound on her kidneys and has to go under for a proceedure on the 22nd.
Athena needs to go to the Children's Hospitol for her skin condition.
Our van broke down a week ago and needs repairs.
Alot is going on right now but with time we will get it all figured out.(((Hugs))))Darcy

Here Comes The Sun

2011-03-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

Most days Iam dealing with cluster migraines and an overall feeling of exhaustion.
We are still trying to figure out what is causing them and I look towards that goal.
Athena's eye was turning in and we found out her eyes are worse than mine they put her in half the prescription that she needs to get her use to them in April they will reevaluate her she is doing better since getting glasses with her preschool work and she likes her glasses and is very careful with them she has an appointment next month to see a Dermatologist so we can figure out her skin problems.
Alora is dealing with some health issues as well so we have appointments every week between the 3 of us girls life is to busy and I feel overwhelmed alot but I know it is just the exhaustion that causes this.
March 7TH we had 70MPH winds we had to pay a $500 deductible to get 3 windows replaced in Toms car the winds uprooted big trees it was pretty scary just glad no one was hurt.
The other day I got a package in the mail from Grace she had tucked into this little box 2 knitted monster chunks one for each of the girls and underneath Sunshines Embrace a lovely shawl she knit:)
Yesterday I took the time to shower and do my hair and makeup so Tom could take pictures.
I wanted to show you the lovely and thoughtful gifts from Grace:)
When you have migraines you have to avoid light and the shawl she knit reminds me of a sunshiny day you cannot help but smile it is a hug and so appreciated and the girls love their little monsters so much.
Thankyou Grace you always know when to send hugs we love you bunches:)
I wanted to share something a friend wrote me this morning.

A Friend

She can deal with stress and carry heavy burdens.
She smiles when she feels like screaming and she sings when she feels like crying.
She crys when she is happy and laughs when she is afraid.
Her love is unconditional.
Pass this to every beautiful woman you know remind her she is unique:)

Update & Some Knitting:)

2011-01-20T13:25:00.000-08:00

I had my oral surgery yesterday and thanks to everyones prayers and get well wishes it went well and Iam recovering well:)
Hubby is taking care of me and on the 31st will be fitted for partials so that I can eat solids again.
Next week I see the Neurologist about my Migraines so we are working on the health issues and Athena is getting better so everything is going great:)
I thought I would share the knits I did over the Holidays alot were little wee socks and one wee tiny ornament and I knit myself a warm hat for The January Month of knitting for self.Hugs Darcy
**I knit A Very Froggy Christmas:)Hugs Darcy**

**I knit Going Postal For My Letter Carrier Larry:)**

I knit Wee Tiny Sporty Sock for Sock Scrimmage:)

**I knit Starry, Starry Night Sockhead Hat for Myself to Wear Next Month On Our 7TH Wedding Anniversary On Valentine's Day:)Hugs Darcy**

I knit an Ornament Wee Tiny Elf Sock.

I knit a wee tiny Sugar Plum Ornament.

I knit a wee tiny Ravelry Sock.

Here We Go Again

2011-01-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

Athena has strep she is on antibiotics again and although my van is fixed Iam a wreck cluster migraines and cannot see Neurologist yet because I have oral surgery on Wednesday.
Those of you who remember last years oral surgery well now I need the same thing done again but it is the exact same molar on the other side of my jaw and if the Ct Scan of my jaw comes back favorable then at the same time the Oral surgeon will be doing the implant for the spot from last years exstraction so to say iam stressed and worn out well that is a given so will be quiet for sometime hope when I come back it is with better news.Hugs Darcy

~2011~

2011-01-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

`Chillin With My Gnomies`

2010-12-25T00:08:00.000-08:00

Before We got sick back in November I knit these little guys for some friends of mine.

Athena no longer has staff infection which we are so grateful for thankyou for all your prayers and loving words it meant alot to us.
I still have not gotten the van fixed as I have gotten sicker and sicker with infection in my sinuses.
I had Friday labwork was put on 3rd antibiotic Levaquin and had a CT Scan will know results next week.
So no tree is up this Christmas but Hubby wrapped the gifts and in the morning we will take pictures and watch the girls faces light up over their presents and drink hot chocolate and read the Nutcracker and listen to TCHAIKOVSKY THE NUTCRACKER
SIMON RATTLE BERLINER PHILHAMONIKER gifts a friend of mine sent me that teaches ballet she thought the girls would love it:)
I sent out the picture Christmas Cards today one is making it's way to Grace.
I hope all my friends and their families have a safe and happy holiday together.
I know alot of us have been sick since Thanksgiving but with a New Year Brings New Hope.Hugs Darcy

When Bad Things Happen In 3's

2010-12-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

Picture Taken At ER Of Athena's Leg

It all started a week before Thanksgiving found out I had an infection in my chest then we got a killer virus I refer to as the Terminator still trying to get over it.
Last Thursday our 4 yr old Athena was bitten by a poisonous spider and she had a fever then from her calf to her foot swelled up and I had to run her to The nearest ER 40 minutes away.
They said she had a staff infection and drew a circle around the infected area and said to get her into the pediatrician first thing in the morning and we did and it had spread both directions way past the lines and were even more red and swollen.
They had to give her 1 gram of antibiotics half in each thigh at one time and she has been on 2 oral antibiotics since then as well.
The swelling and redness is gone but the antibiotics are 5 times a day for a 10 day period.
I was just calming down from all of that when we got in a car wreck today now my back hurts and Iam emotional and exhausted.
I wanted all my blogging friends to know why my blog has been quiet.
I will eventually be back to keep you updated and hopefully our lives will get less crazy soon.Hugs Darcy

~Happy Thanksgiving~

2010-11-25T11:54:00.000-08:00

What Iam grateful for is a loving family and friends:)
Watching Macy's Parade hope your weekend is filled with family and friends and food.Hugs Darcy

Beam N Read

2010-11-14T20:32:00.000-08:00

The awesome folks at ASF Lightware Solutions sent me their Beam N Read LED 6 and I knew just what I would use it for.
We live in the Mojave Desert and I like to go walking at night this hands free light was the perfect solution to my problem as we have areas that I walk that don't have lights and we have coyotes and bobcats that roam the base at night so I needed some illumination.
My hubby also likes that oncoming cars can see me when I'm wearing mine and the light wont blind them as they pass me.
I feel alot safer on my walks now that I have it and it is light weight and the neck strap is adjustable so it doesn't bounce around it sits nicely on my chest as I am walking.
I love that it comes with the 2 filters The orange filter for softer light and the red filter to maintain night vision also it is good to note that magnifiers with the LED 6 and 103M are an accessory to the light that are beneficial for short periods of detail work by those with normal vision.
They are not low vision aids nor for use for extended periods.

Celebrated My Birthday:)

2010-10-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

Birthday was today but hubby works so we went on a date Saturday we went to the movies and then out for Thai food and it was so much fun:)
Today was a busy day running the kids to and from their schools then I felt sick after dinner so will have cake tomorrow.
I got packages in the mail one from Grace and one from Mary and one last week from Kat will post pictures of presents tomorrow also Tom let me buy some awesome yarn when I get it I will take pictures:)
I finished my birthday sockhead hat I love it:)Hugs Darcy

Relaxing And Knitting:)

2010-10-17T09:44:00.000-07:00

We have been sick alot colds and flue but are doing better last week I went to ABC Of Creative Pursuit to visit and buy needles for my Birthday projects and had fun hanging out with friends and bought lots of Cascade 220 to knit toys for the girls this Winter:)
Iam knitting a Sockhead Hat for my Birthday and hubby and I are planning a date night my Birthday is October 25TH but it is during the week so we will have our date night the 23RD.
I had lots of Birthday knits planned but then we got sick so only think I will get a couple done by my Birthday Iam loving the way my hat is knitting up.
So what is on your needles?

~Grace's Capelet~

2010-09-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

I had been planning a surprise for Grace and couldn't share it until she received it.
I knit the pattern Grace Capelet in 1 skein of Worsted Weight Malabrigo colorway Ravelry Red that I purchased from Sandrasingh.com.
Grace loves Malabrigo and her favorite color is red.
I purchased the ribbon for the bow in Ravelry green it was fun to knit a special gift for such a special friend:)
I know I haven't been blogging much lately but my girls have been in school since August 16TH and I have been volunteering in their classrooms also Alora just had her 6TH birthday the picture is of her and her sister enjoying the gifts from Grace:)
Hopefully we will adjust to the new routine soon.Hugs Darcy

Summer Flies

2010-08-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

I knit a shawl every year for my birthday this year I started early when I found this wonderful pattern and I just wanted to share it with you:)
There was a knitalong on ravelry and I read every post and took notes which are on my project page here.
It is the most well written detailed pattern and a quick knit.
A great first shawl pattern for anyone.
I knit it with 10 ply worsted plucky mcn on US # 10 needles it can be knit in 2-4 days and you need roughly 400 yards for this project.
If your not on ravelry write me and I will send you my notes happy knitting.Hugs Darcy

Getting Healthy One Step At A Time

2010-07-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

One year ago as of July 28Th 2009 hubby and I decided to get healthy having your Wii Fit insult you is a motivator;)
We started out by making changes to our diet and a fellow blogger threw out a challenge and we accepted Robyn's Raving's.
We cut processed foods and butter out of our diets and started out eating fish and lots of fruits and veggies.
I lost 20 pounds in 8 months hubby lost 30 pounds.
When I went for my blood panel in April I thought the doctor would give me good news but he instead told me my bad cholesterol had risen from 206 to 268 and that he wanted to put me on a second cholesterol medication.
I said this cant be I lost weight he told me that the only way to lower my bad cholesterol was threw excercise I asked him to give me time to change things he told me I had until my next blood draw.
I started out walking 3 miles a day drinking 2 liters of water a day and eating 5 small healthy low fat meals as time progressed I have upped my excercise to weight training for upper arm strength as well as water aerobics and yoga and now I walk 7.5 miles a day in under an hour although Iam tired most of the time I have lost another 20 pounds for a total of 40 pounds in 12 months:)
This was one of the goals I had set for myself.
I went into see the doctor the other day for my blood panel results and although I still have to keep taking my cholesterol medicine I wont be put on a second one as I have brought my bad cholesterol down to 101.
Our new life style has to be a permanent one and it has been alot easier since hubby and I are doing it together.
My H1C is now 5.5 and I have cut my Diabetes medicine in half it is so great to be able to say I did it Iam on my way to being healthy:)
I saw a friend today I hadn't seen in a year she said hey you lost half of yourself that put a big smile on my face.
Setting realistic goals for yourself and reaching them is a good feeling we cant change everything over night just one step at a time:)Hugs Darcy

Winner Of The Puffy Mondaes Giveaway

2010-07-12T08:39:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Turtle please contact me at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
With your mailing address:)

~Puffy Mondaes And A Giveaway~

2010-06-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

When I went home to Idaho for my visit I spent time at my favorite shop Puffy Mondaes.
My friend Keren and her husband are the owners of this unique shop.
Karen sent home with me a skein of her hand spun for a giveaway.
This "Cloud" skein pictured above came from a raw Idaho Grown "Poly Pay" sheep fleece a breed of sheep developed and named in Idaho.
I asked Keren to explain the process she went threw to make this unique and lovely skein here is what she had to say:

I washed the raw fleece to remove the lanolin, hay, and dirt, then dyed the wool in clouds without carding.
The lofty texture of this yarn is created by spinning the wool in the clouds around a wool core, then wrapping the yarn with a wool thread.
Knit "Clouds" on PHAT needles to retain texture (sz 13 or Larger), or sz 10 or smaller to create a dense, textured fabric.
For more "Cloud" hand spun in other shades contact Keren at Puffy Mondaes.

The prize:100% "Poly Pay" Wool Idaho Grown/Hand spun by Karen 110 yards in a lovely blue rightly named Cloud.

How To Enter:

1. Visit Puffy Mondaes and come back and leave a comment telling me what you like most about the shop.

2. Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your post.
If you don't have a blog but are on ravelry leave a comment about what you like from her shop with your ravelry name.

3.You get an entry for every person who leaves a comment saying they came from your blog post about the giveaway.

Deadline: July 10TH at Midnight

~Feeling More Rested~

2010-06-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

I have still been knitting mostly wee tiny socks.
I did a June Wedding bride and groom set for a couple getting married then today sent off a package with a Rapunzel theme.
I'am feeling more rested which helps alot.
It is very hot in the desert so I try to wait until evening to take the girls to the park as I'am fair complected and so are they and we sunburn easily.
It was nice weather back in Idaho I got some color when I was visiting but here in sunny southern California you can fry under the sun in a matter of minutes so you need plenty of sunscreen.
Father's Day the girls gave Tom his gifts and I made homemade banana bread it was a mellow day spent at home.
I had bought some yummy homemade jam when I was at the farmer's market in Idaho which I will post about later the jam has red pepper and garlic in it so yummy:)
Heading out for a doctors appointment thankyou to everyone for all the prayers and healing thoughts it is so comforting.Hugs Darcy

~Amazing Grace~

2010-06-19T16:46:00.000-07:00

Where to begin alot of family tragedies and the passing away of my friend Samantha all have taken a toll on my heart and emotions shock and grief and constant tears.
Then when I received the results of my ct scan it was to much.
I was told my insides are messed up nothing where it should be and that they cant put it back to rights.
The surgery to correct my abdominal wall to risky so I shut down and just wanted to go home.
My hubby took time off from work to take care of our girls and I took a road trip home it was a difficult trip as I knew my friend Samantha would no longer be there.
I didn't sleep for a week but did get to see my son and grandson and friends and I saved the last day to see Samantha's husband and little ones.
On the drive home I had to stop and eat and drink several glasses of orange juice as the exhaustion caught up with me.
The last week I have been sleeping alot.
I have tried so many times to write a post but was overwhelmed with my frustration and grief.
I received a package in the mail from my friend Grace.
I always think of my favorite Hymn when I think of her she goes threw life comforting everyone around her she is amazing:)
In the package was a card letting me know she is here for me and coloring books and play toys for my girls they squealed with excitement:)
Then the gift for me she knitted me a shawl in pretty Summer colors and the pattern just so pretty it was like a much needed hug so I put on some makeup and did my hair and asked my hubby to take a picture of me wearing my shawl he coaxed me into smiling.
Thankyou Grace for the hug and the nudge it meant so much to me.

Updates And Knitted and Needle Felted FO'S

2010-05-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

Above are some of my wee tiny socks I felted then needle felted with fiber an Orca on one.
I knitted one called the Solar System Sock and one to resemble a Clown Fish.
I knit a lace waves book marker and needle felted a fish for a bead.
I love combining knitting and. felting and needle felting in my projects it makes the possibilities endless.
Here is what is happening in my world
My grandsons mother has crone's and last weekend she had to have 15 inches of her small intestine removed not being able to be there for them is hard we have talked by phone and text but it is not the same but she knows I would be with them if it were possible.
I have to drive to Santa Monica Thursday for a CT Scan then hoping to go over the films with the doctors they want to see what they will be dealing with it seems my insides have shifted around hopefully I will know more by the end of the week.Hugs Darcy

~Preparing For Surgery~

2010-04-29T16:12:00.001-07:00

I’m working on getting surgery approved for rectus diastasis and hernia repair hoping this will be the last surgery.
having health issues is somewhat embarrassing I would much rather always have wonderful news not here we go again with more surgery.
I really try to be upbeat and this is going to be a difficult surgery and a painful and slow recovery time.
I will be down for 6 weeks once I have the surgery.
I’m nervous about the surgery and being in constant pain is exhausting.
We don't have family near by so Tom will have to care for me and the girls by himself if it is scheduled for May.
If we get a June surgery date Momma Rhonda is going to come so that she can help with the girls and my hubby can be with me threw the surgery as it will be 100 miles from us at UCLA.
I have been going to my appointments and preparing for it sorry to have been so quiet.
I have to drive to Santa Monica tomorrow for a doctors appointment then hopefully they can get the ball rolling with my insurance to get my surgery.
I finished the love bites scarf and knit the calm waters cowl the end of February the pictures are of Alora and I modeling them.
I will keep everyone updated as I know more about when my surgery will be.Hugs Darcy

~Needle Felting My Way Into Spring~

2010-03-31T00:27:00.000-07:00

Babette The Easter Bunny

My jaw is healing and I'm feeling good.
I have been knitting and needle felting.
I have always been fascinated with needle felting with fiber.
Three months ago I started out needle felting on felted knits and have recently been needle felting animals it is very relaxing and the fun part is I never know what they will look like until done:)
I needle felted Babette The Easter Bunny I wanted to make her whimsical and sweet with a hint of mischief.
Babette fits in the palm of my hand I needle felted her with fiber from Extreme Spinning.
There are allot of great tutorials on-line for learning to needle felt please share anything you have found with me in the comments or just tell me what projects your doing.
I'm having a giveaway to celebrate Spring in my group knotty knitter on ravelry for a Dust Bunnies pattern from Mochimochiland.

Visit To The Endodontist

2010-03-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

Alora's drawing of a tooth fairy who cares for our teeth

I was told the molar next to the extraction site might need a root canal because the one it had 5 years ago could be failing or he also said that during the surgery the surgeon could have hit the nerve that runs under the teeth or caused a hair line fracture in the molar next to the surgery site that could be causing the pain but would not be visible on x-rays so there are 3 possible scenarios for what is causing all the pain .
but because my surgery site still has a long way to go to heal I have to wait another month to do anything and he thinks it's time for the ortho surgeon to file the bone down since my gums aren't healing over the bone.
The Endodontist thinks I will have to stay on the antibiotics till the bone in my jaw in both spots heals over. So time is what will be needed to heal I have an appointment the 19Th so I guess he will file the bone down then.
I slept deeply last night I was just exhausted.Hugs Darcy

Update On How I'm Doing

2010-03-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

I told the Ortho Surgeon the molar left on that side has been hurting and throbbing and is sensitive to hot and cold since he extracted the molar that was next to it.
The Ortho Surgeon told me March 12TH it had nothing to do with my surgery and to see my dentist to get the molar x-rayed.
Today I did that and he couldn't’t find anything visibly wrong with it and said it looks like something is irritating the gum line around my molar as it is white and he said my jaw doesn’t look like it is healing right which when your tired is scary stuff to hear.
My dentist told me I need to see an Endodontist maybe he can see if there is a hair line fracture of the molar.
My Endodontist is on vacation until April 6th so I will need to find another one within our dental network in the area and my next appointment with the ortho surgeon is the 19Th.
After the girls were tucked in bed I took a hot shower and put on comfy pajamas so I'm doing better and tonight I will try to get a good nights rest and tomorrow I will make phone calls and hopefully get an appointment scheduled.Darcy

~Update On How I'm Doing~

2010-03-07T23:05:00.000-08:00

I had surgery on Feb 25TH a week later I saw the ortho surgeon for my 1 week checkup and I found out that I fall under the small percentage of people who’s body rejects foreign objects.(Forewarning picture below if you have a queasy stomach don't look)
I have a severe infection from the bone marrow implant so I have been taking a really strong antibiotic and rinsing with a special rinse since then.
I have 5 more days of taking the antibiotics then he will let me know whats next.
The infection broke things down so my jaw is open the bone exposed.
Since the area wont close do to the infection it really burns and hurts alot so he gave me stronger pain medicine but they only take the edge off so I knit alot so that I'm focusing on something other then the tension and pain in my jaw and neck.
I will continue to stay on my yogurt,jello,soup meal plan until the hole in my jaw closes my husband said it looked a little bit better.Hugs Darcy

~In Memory Of Samantha~

2010-02-22T09:20:00.000-08:00

I received a phone call yesterday evening from Jared to tell me Samantha had passed on.
I'm having surgery Wednesday morning so I will be unable to fly home for the funeral but I will be thinking of them on that day and be there in spirit.
Last night Tom and I looked threw pictures and talked about the good times with our friends.
Jared wanted me to tell everyone how your thoughts and prayers and knitted gifts brought such comfort to Samantha and to thank you all.
I wanted to tell you how much you all were there for us and thank you for not letting me go threw this hard time alone and for all the joy you brought my friend and know those gifts were a blessing and wrapped Samantha in love.
The pictures are of Samantha ,Jared Hallie and Alora playing in Hallie's room and of litte Jack I took the pictures last Summer.

~I Will Be Gone For Awhile~

2010-02-17T22:02:00.000-08:00

I'm having oral surgery next week.
I have a molar that has to come out and it has curved roots so it needs to be taken out in pieces and some bone with it so
I will also be getting a bone graft then in 8 months They will do a dental implant.
Hubby is taking time off next week to care for me and our girls.
This is something I have delayed but now my mouth hurts to much to ignore it anymore.
I will not be blogging for awhile hope to be back in March.Hugs Darcy

~♥ My Sweet Valentine ♥~

2010-02-14T00:59:00.000-08:00

Card I Gave Tom

Today is our 6TH Wedding Anniversary♥♥
My husband was my best friend for 8 months before we decided to take it to the next level...Dating.
On Christmas 2003 he got down on his knees and proposed.
He was a practical joker I knew he was going to ask me to marry him just not the day.
So when he gave me a jewelry box as a Christmas present knowing I being a woman would think there was a ring in it.lol
I tore that jewelry box apart looking for a ring and he said it was comical to watch.
Well he waited till that night under the pretense of showing me a recipe in a cook book so as to distract me from my daughter who was hiding a camcorder under a blanket to finally pop the question.
My ring was a gold heart wrapped around a heart shaped diamond I was so excited that I didn't realize I hadn't answered his question till my daughter said mom are you going to stop gawking at the ring and answer Tom???
We decided our wedding would be on Valentines Day 2004 because after all he was the heart of my heart:)
How do you know he is the one?
He loves you even though you snore.
He loves you even when your sick and look horrible.
You catch him looking longingly at you and he says your so beautiful and you just woke up and your hair is sticking straight up and your wearing flannel pajamas so your pretty sure he is whacked in the brain and needs glasses;)
For our Wedding he made me a CD of love songs I felt so loved:)
I know I love him because I love the idea of getting old and wrinkly with him and treasure our time together.
I always feel so giddy when he comes threw the front door from work yeah I got it bad!!!

~Grey Garments~

2010-02-11T22:04:00.000-08:00

Grey Garments

Kay and Ann of Mason Dixon Knitting have come out with another keep you in stitches video.
For those of you like me who can relate to having a cat and a stash that has taken over your home;)
If you haven't seen the movie "Grey Gardens" then you'll need to check it out.

~Winner Sunshine Yarns Giveaway~

2010-02-08T23:10:00.000-08:00

Congratulations:Skaro964
please send me your mailing information and I will get the Sunshine Yarns Pale Dawn out to you in the mail:)
Thankyou everyone who entered I loved reading about your favorites.Hugs Darcy

~♥ Hey Cupcake Shawl For Lizet ♥~

2010-02-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

As you all know I had to frog it and restart it on smaller needles.
I finished knitting Simple Things Feb 3 2010 and blocked it.
I will be sending it out Monday to Lizet for her birthday very excitted I bought a birthday card and little treats for her and Dorrit for Valentines Day:)

~♥ Friday Fill-Ins ♥~

2010-02-05T09:43:00.000-08:00

And...here we go!

1. I know_____________ that I need to do my taxes _____________.
2. January for me seemed to be_________ the longest month.
3. You can't help but__________ ♥ Love Valentines Day especially at my house as it will be our 6TH Wedding Anniversary ♥ __________.
4. _____________Ravelry Olympics_____________ bring it on!
5. Where have you looked ______________ For that pattern you plan on knitting during the Olympics?
6. ________Really cool Ravelry patterns________ are now available.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to_____ my yearly visit to the gyno yeah me;) _____, tomorrow my plans include_____Hair appointment _____ and Sunday, I want to_____Knit _____!

~♥ Happy 101 Blog Award ♥~

2010-02-01T21:54:00.000-08:00

I received this very sweet blog award from my friend Grace.
Here is how it works:

1. Copy and paste the award on your blog.
2. List who gave the award to you and use a link to her blog (or hyperlink).
3. List 10 things that make you happy.
4. Pass the award on to other bloggers and visit their blog to let them know!

10 Things That Make Me Happy

1.My Hubby and children
2.My friends
3.Comforting Others making them smile
4.When hubby and I get to spend couple time together on his days off after the girls are in bed cuddling in front of the tv watching our favorite shows or knitting together.
5.Doing sweet things for my Hubby like tomorrow is his birthday so I'm going to look for his favorite ice cream and get him a starbucks coffee.
6.Knitting
7.Starbucks I love a good coffee
8.Chocolate
9.Getting to sleep in a total luxury when you have little ones
10.When I get a package in the mail with a lovely skein of yarn in it.

Passing The Award On:

1.Lizet
2.Leslie
3.Cheryl
4.Alison
5.Erika
6.Mary
7.Cici
8.Tanya
9.Ariel
10.Kathy

~Visiting The Frog Pond~

2010-01-29T20:35:00.000-08:00

Be warned this is a cautionary tale and so if your a knitter this may be to upsetting to read;)
I have been for the last week sick with a nasty bug and knitting a shawl.
Realizing to late one shouldn't knit while sick.lol
My stitches just didn't look right so this morning I frogged it.
I'm feeling much better so I'm going to knit up some swatches on smaller needles and restart the shawl it will be a birthday present for my friend Lizet.
The yarn is The Plucky Knitter Super wash Merino,Fingering in the colorway Hey Cupcake! and it does look like yummy pink frosting:)

~Sunshine Yarns & A Giveaway~

2010-01-24T13:44:00.000-08:00

Sunshine Yarn's and a giveaway
I love Dani's Colorways and I'm excited to work with her to bring you this giveaway.

This is what Dani had to say:
I started playing with dyes for fun while working as a water resources scientist.
I enjoyed my job, but felt too contained by the 9 to 5 work style.
Maybe it was the scientist in me, or the need to play with yarn, but I was soon hooked!
I had gotten into knitting pretty seriously that past year and had a blog, Knitting Sunshine.
I started showing pictures of my hand dyed yarn on the blog, and other girls started asking to buy it. That is when things clicked and I opened up a small etsy store.
I decided on "Sunshine Yarns" as a name, because Sunshine has always been a nickname of mine.
I also feel most at home when in the outdoors -- my husband and I are avid hikers, bikers, skiers, swimmers, and triathletes.
Here in Colorado, we are able to enjoy the seasons, the natural world around us, while doing something we love.
Our love for the outdoors and traveling, gives me all the inspiration I need to dye yarn!

Over the past 4 years, Sunshine Yarns has changed allot since those small etsy store days.
We launched our own website in January 2008, and with the help of Ravelry and our Sunshine Yarnies group, have grown by leaps and bounds.
I say we, because my husband Scott has been working with Sunshine Yarns now full time since the Fall of 2008.
I love the fact that we now have a successful and happy business in a place that we love... we try to never take anything for granted!

The prize:
We are giving away to 1 lucky winner,Pale Dawn Classic Super wash Sock Yarn
Approx.370 yds of 100% Merino Wool.

How To Enter:

1. Visit Dani's shop Sunshine Yarns and come back and leave a comment telling me which colorway is your favorite.

2. Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your post.
If you don't have a blog but are on ravelry leave a comment about what you like from her shop with your ravelry name.

3.You get an entry for every person who leaves a comment saying they came from your blog post about the giveaway.

Deadline: February 7TH at Midnight

Update On Samantha

2010-01-20T09:17:00.000-08:00

I talked with her mother last night Samantha almost passed last week she rallied when her dad came but it is now at the point where she can only talk in a whisper and cannot walk.
Samantha wanted her mother to tell me how much she has loved everything that everyone has knitted for her and how much it has meant to her.
Her husband bought a cubby to keep everything in and when the cowl I knit her and the mitts Tanya knit for her arrived her mother took them to the hospitol and Samantha put them on.
It is very hard to write this post I have been crying since last night.
Samanthas Mom said she wanted me to thank all of you.
Today I sent out 2 day exspress to her the scarflett and cowl from Grace and the socks from Cheryl.
Thankyou so much for everything you all have done for Samantha you are all so wonderfully kind.Hugs Darcy

~The Lady Of The Water FO~

2010-01-17T09:52:00.000-08:00

I bought the Sweet Georgia skein of Tourmaline to knit a shawl for Leslie.
The Simple Things Shawl is a quick and fun knit and Tuesday I will be sending The Lady Of The Water out in the mail to her.
If your interested in doing a knit along for this pattern please come join us here.
I'm going to cast on another one in The Plucky Knitter Hey Cupcake for Lizet's birthday.

~Yarn Harlot Puts Up The Knit-Symbol~

2010-01-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

I know alot of you have been following the news
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti - Hundreds of U.S. troops began handing out food and water Friday to stricken survivors in earthquake-shattered Port-au-Prince, as relief groups struggle to deliver aid in Haiti's fourth day of desperation.
What can you do?"
Stephanie has put up the knit-signal she exsplains how you can help here.
I donated today to Doctors Without Borders

~Ravelry Party At Unwind~

2010-01-14T17:33:00.000-08:00

I was able to go to the ravelry party at Unwind this month.
It was a packed house and so much fun and I met some wonderful ladies.
Hanging out with the ravelry crew and meeting Dawn and Kelly of Namaste was the best part!
Their bags are just gorgeous:)
I bought a Cali Clutch in Saddle and a skein of SweetGeorgia in Tourmaline which I have been knitting into a Simple Things Shawl for my sweet friend Leslie will post pictures of the finished shawl this weekend.

~Finished Simple Things Shawl~

2010-01-07T14:46:00.000-08:00

I love Pagewood Farms Yukon the bamboo gives it a lovely shine and it is a dream to knit with and each skein is 450 yards.
The colorway is New Horizon the pattern is Simple Things by Mary-Heather Cogar.
Simple Things is a easy fun quick knit and I'm starting a knitalong this Sunday here is the link to the knitalong please join in the fun:)

~Knit & Crochet Hope Giveaway Winner~

2010-01-07T07:11:00.000-08:00

The name has been drawn and the person who will be receiving the Mitten All Sterling Silver Cable Needle Necklace is: Turtle
Please contact me with your mailing address at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com

I want to say THankyou to Elaine,Rachel,Grace,and Tanya for the gloves,fingerless mitts,knucks you sent.
With Sincerest Thanks Darcy and Leslie

~Last FO For 2009~

2010-01-04T00:33:00.000-08:00

I knit a cowl for my Mother-in-law in pink and Rhonda one in purple and for Samantha's Birthday she turned 26 years old Jan 1 2010
I knit the green cowl.
I knit a Neapolitan scarf from some hand spun I received in a swap.
I really liked how quickly they all knit up and loved the Mustard Scarf and Burnished leaves patterns.Hugs Darcy

~Happy New Year~

2010-01-01T16:34:00.000-08:00

glitter-graphics.com

I'm pretty tuckered out from staying up till midnight last night to finish my last project of 2009.
A Birthday gift for Samantha she is 26 years old today and as you all know she is fighting the good fight against cancer.
I will show the last finished projects for 2009 this Sunday.
I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year.Hugs Darcy

~Update On Samantha~

2009-12-29T09:44:00.001-08:00

I talked with her by phone today she received the package with the mitts from Me,Grace,Rachel,Elaine on Saturday.
She wanted me to thankyou all of you she loves them:)
I asked her if she would like anything else and she said scarfs and cowls would be nice so I'm casting on a cowl today in this lovely skein of teal from Dicentra Designs it is Alpaca,Merino blend very pretty:)
When it is done and a few more pairs of mitts come in I will be sending out another package.
The other day I received the pair of mitts in above photo for Samantha from Turtle they are so pretty and soft and will go out in the next package.Thankyou Turtle
Friday is Samantha's 26th Birthday hoping it is a nice one:)
Remember when your ready to send out mitts write me at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
for my address.Thankyou everyone for helping to warm Samantha up this Winter:)Hugs Darcy

~Merry Chritmas~

2009-12-25T17:05:00.001-08:00

glitter-graphics.com

We had a lovely Christmas Hubby got me plucky cashmere and silk,merino yarn and let me get my hair cut and colored.
We got Tom games for Christmas The girls received letters from Santa;)
We knit dolls for Alora and Athena for Christmas.
I was up late last night sewing the snap closures on their dolls dresses.
The girls got ponys and barbies for Christmas.
Lizet and her daughter Dorrit sent them chocolate coins and activity kits for Christmas and I got munchies and lovely skeins of yarn and tea and lip balm and a holder such a lovely package from my friends in the UK.
Grace knit the girls a dog and a mouse they love them:)
How was your Christmas?

Thankyou Samantha's Firsts Pkg Went Out Today :)

2009-12-21T15:49:00.000-08:00

A lovely pair Of Mitts and A Neckwarmer from Elaine And Rachel

2 lovely Pairs Of Mitts From Grace

Pair I knit

I found out that Samantha has been taken off her medications to give her time to get stronger then in the New Year they will start back up her Cancer treatments.
Thankyou Elaine , Rachel,and Grace for the wonderful Mitts and Neckwarmer
I cried happy tears of appreciation today as I sent out the package.

I want to Thank everyone for helping to warm up Samantha this Winter.
The warmth and love of all of you has so touched my heart.
As the gloves come in I will post about them and send them out.Hugs Darcy

~Update Knit And Crochet Hope Drive~

2009-12-20T12:25:00.000-08:00

I'm exstending the time to get the gloves,fingerless mitts,knucks to me by and above is a picture of the special all sterling silver mitten cable needle necklace that Leslie and I designed to give away.

for every pair of gloves you send to me by January 5 2010 you will get 5 entries into a drawing for The Mitten Cable Needle Necklace as a thank you for helping give hope to Samantha.
Her measurements are:
arm 11" around
wrist 6.5" around
hand 7" around knuckles
thumb 3" around
When ready to send the gloves out just email me at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com for my mailing address.
I will post the names and pictures of the gloves as they come in.
With Sincerest Thanks Darcy and Leslie

~Finished Projects~

2009-12-20T08:34:00.000-08:00

I have been knitting alot of wee tiny socks and ornaments as gifts:)

~Winners Of Local Gringos Giveaway~

2009-12-19T18:50:00.000-08:00

The Prizes:

SUGAR PLUM SHEEP Set of 8 Christmas Knitting Fiber Care or Gift Tags

PUPPY LOVE with YARN BALL Set of 8

PIRATE KNITTING Set of 8

The Winners are:
Stephcat will be receiving the Pirate Knitting Set:)
Kristen will be receiving the Sugar Plum Sheep Set:)
Channon will receive the Puppy love Set:)
Congratulations ladies please send me your full names and address for mailing out your prizes at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
Merry Christmas Everyone and A Happy New Year:)

~Goodies In The mail From Leslie~

2009-12-18T11:56:00.000-08:00

My friend Leslie went to Stitches East and met Stephanie and Allison they write comic books Handknit Heroes and The Knit Princess she got me a t-shirt from Allison and The 1 & 2nd issue of Handknit Hereos signed by Stephanie and her kit for Alex's Eyes very cool and her pattern Villainess Glovelets which I have the perfect yarn for:)
Leslie also got me a pair of handknit earrings from Knitwear by Ambala there gorgeous:)
What a fun package of goodies.Thankyou Leslie

~Your Are Vacuuming~

2009-12-17T15:11:00.000-08:00

You Are Vacuuming

You are responsible, hard working, and even a bit picky.
You believe that it's important to always do the right thing.

So it totally makes sense that you care both about the dirt you can see and the dirt you cant see.
Vacuuming allows you to do a thorough job.

You're the type of person who keeps tinkering with your work when everyone else is done.
You hold yourself to high standards.

What others think of you doesn't matter much.
What you think of yourself, however, is extremely important.

What Household Chore Are You?

Blogthings: Quizzes and Tests and Memes, Oh My!

~Local Gringos Giveaway~

2009-12-15T20:33:00.000-08:00

The Prizes:

SUGAR PLUM SHEEP Set of 8 Christmas Knitting Fiber Care or Gift Tags

PUPPY LOVE with YARN BALL Set of 8

PIRATE KNITTING Set of 8

Maggie has a wonderful shop.
I was lucky enough to receive some of her gift tags recently from a friend and they make a gift extra special:)

3 prizes 3 winners each one will get one set of Fiber Care Gift Tags featured above.

How To Enter:

1.Leave a comment saying which set you'd like most to receive.

2. Visit Her etsy shop and come back and leave a comment telling me what you like.

3. Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your post.
If You Dont have a blog but are on ravelry leave a comment about what you like from her shop with your ravelry name.

4.You get an entry for every person who leaves a comment saying they came from your blog post about the giveaway.

Deadline is December 19th 2009 at Noon

~Some Finished Christmas Gifts~

2009-12-13T19:08:00.000-08:00

I knit the Mustard scarf and burnished leaves cowl for Christmas gifts this year.
If you are looking for projects that knit up quickly and are beautiful I highly recommend these 2 patterns:)(((Hugs)))Darcy

~Goodies In The Mail And A Project On The Needles~

2009-12-12T15:23:00.000-08:00

I was one of the winners of a giveaway at Hookandneedlegirland received this lovely package in the mail.
Organic merino sport in Cocoa and Cream,a bottle of sweet almond vanilla lotion, a bar of natural handmade soap dark chocolate, a purple tape measure, and a crafter's tin of mints.Thank you Holly
I'm already half way done with a project burnished leaves cowl using the lovely yarn she sent and it is pretty and a dream to knit with she has an etsy shop check it out here:)

Alora's Christmas Doll Is Done:)

2009-12-09T14:43:00.000-08:00

I knit a Dani doll for Alora and Hubby is working on one for Athena but he isn't done yet so I will just show you Alora's for now it is a pattern and kit from AmyGaines etsy shop it was a fun knit only took 5 days.
The girls and I are going to make some loaves of Banana Bread yum:)

~Knitting And Crocheting Hope~

2009-12-04T05:07:00.000-08:00

My friend Samantha has been fighting a rare form of cancer for 4 years. She is now twenty-five years old and she is very cold due to the weight loss and chemo.
I thought it would be nice to make this a warm Christmas for her by knitting or crocheting her gloves, mittens and fingerless mitts.
I would like to ask for help with making this happen as I would like to think that every stitch would restore her hope.
I knit her the fingerless mitts in the photo above from a free pattern called Toast so that she could wear them indoors as her hands are always cold.
I knit them with 10 ply Aran yarn on #6 needles.
I cast on 34 St's as I tend to be a tight knitter.

And I know this isn't much but I want to give back for every one's kindness so for every pair of gloves you send to me by December 20Th 2009 you will get 5 entries into a drawing for a Cable Needle Necklace made by Leslie Wind as a thank you for helping give hope to Samantha for Christmas.
Her measurements are:
arm 11" around
wrist 6.5" around
hand 7" around knuckles
thumb 3" around
When ready to send the gloves out just email me at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com for my mailing address.
I will send out all the gloves 2 day priority mail to Samantha in time for The Holidays and will post the names and pictures of the gloves as they come in.
With Sincerest Thanks Darcy

~Batty Ready For Dorrit~

2009-12-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

My friend LizzieW's little Daughter Dorrit will be getting this cute little guy I knit for Christmas he will be traveling over seas to his new home:)

~Winner Of The Mad Creations Giveaway~

2009-12-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

The Winner of the giveaway from Mad Creations is: Elaine
for her refferral from purple:) please contact me with your mailing address Elaine at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
Thankyou everyone who entered the giveaway and be watching for future giveaways:)

~Comfort And Caring~

2009-11-30T17:44:00.000-08:00

Today I received a package from my swap pal Kat back home filled with comfort and caring I also found out my friend Samantha back home was told her tumor is bigger.
I have been crying and hugging the stuffie bunny filled with lavendar that Kat made.
I want to go to bed and sleep I feel so drained but my hubby works swing shift so I have to wait till I put the girls to bed.
I know what my friend is feeling and if she gives up the fight well that is what worries me knowing how she is feeling right now I wish I could be there to give her a hug and be a shoulder for her to lean on.
When you know that you cannot make things better it is hard to accept because it’s my friend and she has little ones sometimes life seems unfair.
I feel bad normally I’m a very upbeat person but my emotions are sad ones today.
The package from Kat was like a much needed hug.
I'm going to run a nice warm bubble bath for the girls tonight before bed.

~Samantha's Mitts~

2009-11-29T00:35:00.000-08:00

As alot of you know that read my blog I have a friend back home battling a rare form of cancer.
I visited her last Summer twice and brought her a clapotis shawl and urchin hat and since then have knit her a wee sock and yesterday she received the cashmere fingerless mitts I knit her.
Samantha was told she only had months to live but she is still here and trying every experimental chemo they have she is a fighter.
Monday she finds out if this last chemo is the one that will turn things around and it is hard not being there for her.
I hope the knitted goodies I send her give her comfort like a hug from me to her she told me she has alot of chemo hats but only this one pair of gloves so I told her as long as she keeps fighting I will keep knitting with love and prayers and hugs in every stitch:)

~Mini Christmas Stocking Finished~

2009-11-27T22:38:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up my mother would take us in the car during the Holidays at night and drive around looking at all the houses that were decorated with lights.
I especially loved seeing the trees and so in memory of this I knitted a wee tiny stocking.
The pattern can be found here and it is wonderfully written with lots of pictures and different charts to choose from and it is knit flat then seamed and only takes a day or so to knit up it was an enjoyable knit:)

~Happy Thanksgiving~

2009-11-26T00:53:00.001-08:00

Christian Glitter by www.christianglitter.com

Happy Thanksgiving everyone hope you all have an awesome Turkey Day:)

~First Part Of The Day At RhineBeck~

2009-11-21T21:53:00.000-08:00

When first arriving I saw the Ravelry meetup happening up the hill and it was fun to see everyone.
Ysolda was wearing the Bob costume she knit very cool and I got to see Jess and her brother, Casey, and even Mary-Heather it was great to see them again.
I turned and there was Laura Chau she said hey your wearing my shawl very cool as I had knit her Milkweed Shawl to wear to Rhine Beck so it was a treat to meet her as well.
I got to help hold up the Ravelry sign with everyone pretty excitting first part of the Rhine Beck exsperience:)
I will be over the next couple of days be putting up the rest of the pictures from Rhine Beck and the Ravelry party.

~Mad Creations & A Giveaway~

2009-11-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

I'm lucky enough to own one of Deb's bags and matching wallet and they are in constant use.
I also bought one of her acorns it is lovely and I'm excited to be able to work with her to bring you this giveaway:)

A little About Debbie
“I guess you could say I’m a craftaholic.
I am not happy unless I am creating something.
I have always love all kinds of crafts ever since I was little it is in my blood.
I see something and I have to know how it is made.
When I see something I like and want to make it, I have to find out everything I can about the new craft.
My friends who know me even say I obsess over something until I know everything about it.
I have done it with my miniature bears, cross stitching, quilting, scrap booking, quilting and knitting/crocheting.
Right now I’m addicted to my embroidery machine.
It all started with me seeing these adorable lace Christmas ornaments at my local quilt shop.
I couldn't’t get anyone to make me any ornaments so I bought my own machine and start doing it myself and I love it.
I have started an Art fire shop and hope all who visit it find something they love there.
My favorite saying is “Live well, laugh often, love much and create every single day”.

The prize:
One lucky winner will get the lovely quilted project bag with inside pockets and a round bottom so it stands up nicely and the notion wallet that has two little pockets inside and has a zipper and snap to keep your knitting, crocheting, and sewing notions in.
Both in lovely fall colors.

How To Enter:
1. Visit Mad Creations and come back and leave a comment telling me what you like.

2. Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your post.
If You Don't have a blog but are on ravelry leave a comment about what you like from her shop with your ravelry name.

3.You get an entry for every person who leaves a comment saying they came from your blog post about the giveaway.

Deadline: November 30Th at Midnight

Winner Of Darn Good Yarn Giveaway

2009-11-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

~*The Prize*~

Deb's Crafts is the winner of the 2 balls of Sari Silk Congratulations:)
please send me your mailing address at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
Thankyou everyone that entered the giveaway:)

~Baby It's Cold Outside~

2009-11-13T18:28:00.000-08:00

It is starting to get cold at night here in the mojave desert and so we are cooking with the crock pot hot soups sound so good this time of year.
I found a wonderful Jambalaya on line to share with you.
Hubby and youngest have colds and are miserable weather changes always seem to bring on colds around here.
Please share your favorite crock pot soup I would love to know what you like to fix during November to warm up.Hugs Darcy

NewYork Museum Of Modern Art

2009-11-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

Artist Paul Klee Cat And Bird 1928

Pablo Picasso Girl Before A Mirror March 1932

Salvador Dali The Persistence Of Memory 1931

Max Ernst Two Children Are Threatened By A Nightingale 1924

Giorgio De Chirico The Duo Paris Winter 1914-15

Vincent Van Gogh The Olive Trees Saint Remy June-July 1889

Darcy Standing Next To Favorite Painting Vincent Van Gogh Starry Night

Monet's Water Lilies 1914-26

Gustav Klimt Hope ll 1907-08

A pregnant woman bows her head and closes her eyes, as if praying for the safety of her child.
Peeping out from behind her stomach is a death's head, sign of the danger she faces. At her feet, three women with bowed heads raise their hands, presumably also in prayer—although their solemnity might also imply mourning, as if they foresaw the child's fate.

Why, then, the painting's title? Although Klimt himself called this work Vision, he had called an earlier, related painting of a pregnant woman Hope.
By association with the earlier work, this one has become known as Hope, II. There is, however, a richness here to balance the women's gravity.

Klimt was among the many artists of his time who were inspired by sources not only within Europe but far beyond it.
He lived in Vienna, a crossroads of East and West, and he drew on such sources as Byzantine art, Mycenean metalwork, Persian rugs and miniatures, the mosaics of the Ravenna churches, and Japanese screens.
In this painting the woman's gold-patterned robe—drawn flat, as clothes are in Russian icons, although her skin is rounded and dimensional—has an extraordinary decorative beauty. Here, birth, death, and the sensuality of the living exist side by side suspended in equilibrium.

I walked all over manhattan until I found my very first Museum.
I knew I wouldn't have alot of time to see everthing so there were certain paintings I had to see the very nice man guarding Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh offered to take my picture with my favorite painting I was very happy.
It was a wonderful day I was deeply moved especially by Gustav Klimt Hope 11 you could feel the sorrow in the painting.

~Thankyou For The Surprises~

2009-11-09T08:01:00.000-08:00

I received a lovely package from my friend Grace for my birthday there were 3 skeins of super soft Adagio each skein is 70% baby llama and 30% silk 50 grams each I would love pattern ideas for the skeins.

There was a breast cancer awareness pin to wear as October is breast cancer awareness month.

There was a little knitting book to carry in my knitting bag full of cool knitting facts and a place to write my needles down and a Mary Engelbreit Christmas journal.
There were a set of pretty cards with 2 birds kissing so sweet,a pretty accessories wallet,and a knitting needle bracelet purple a favorite I will wear it often:)A key charm which makes me think of Coraline and the secret door.

There was an awesome heart tape measure love it she also sent the girls some treats which they loved and pencils for Alora to use for doing her homework and she loves to draw as well.Thank you Grace

Also for my birthday my friend Leslie gave me the necklace I'm wearing in the photo it is a bubbled heart with Celtic circles cable needle necklace I love it.

I found out I was one of the winners of Chan's giveaway and my prize was a Grace Shawlette it is my favorite color green I have gotten many compliments on the shawlette and it is very soft and pretty.Thank you Chan for a wonderful giveaway and Grace for donating the shawlette it was a wonderful surprise:)

I also won Material Whirled candy corn hat kit giveaway.
I would like to buy another so I can knit one for each of the girls her kits are so cute.Thank you Reenie for the wonderful giveaway.
I received a trip to NY from my hubby for my birthday and he let me buy yarn and get a bracelet on the trip will blog soon about that.

I haven't been blogging much lately as I have been dealing with severe allergies so I will try to update more often as the allergies let up it is still warm where we live and windy so my allergies have been really bad causing migraines and feelings of exhaustion and over all aches and pains .

~Yes It's A Wee Tiny Bat Sock~

2009-11-04T15:45:00.000-08:00

I knit this wee tiny bat from the October Wee Tiny Sock Club pattern more pictures on my ravelry project page.
If your interested in knitting wee tiny socks the Winter memberships will be going up for sale in Meg's etsy shop, BraveLittleKnitter, on November 15th at 10AM.
As a member of the Winter 2009 Wee Tiny Sock Club, you would receive a package in the mail each month this Winter, December, January, and February.
Each package will be based around a different winter theme, and would contain:
-An original Meg Bakewell creative wee tiny sock pattern
-A taste of yummy professionally hand-dyed sock yarn, plenty to knit the wee tiny sock
-All notions needed to complete the pattern - for example, beads and beading needle, so you don't have to run out for extra supplies.
-Stitch markers that coordinate with the theme
-Surprise goodies!

In addition, the first package (December) would include a special wee tiny sock blocker hand-made by Meg's husband, ready to be attached to your keys or your favorite knitting bag.
There is a group on ravelry anyone can join to share their love of the wee tiny sock:)

~Darn Good Yarn & A Giveaway~

2009-11-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

~*The Prize*~

Darn Good Yarn was formed providing the coolest, unique, and exotic yarns, accessories and kits around.
There is something so cool about handspun ecofriendly yarns.
Luckily, her husband Mike has been nothing but a support and keeps the motivation up.
Aside from this yarn being 100% Child Labor Free.
Nicole concentrates on the promotion of Nepalese people to help secure their skills and lifestyles throughout the local region.
For their recycled silk yarn, hemp and other accessories from Nepal, they employ village women through which various benefits are extended such as health care and education for their children.
Fair trade and social benefit….and really great yarn.
Does it get any better? We didn’t think so either.

The prize:
We are giving away to 1 lucky winner,

200 grams Fair Trade Handspun Recycled Sari Silk Yarn, 210 yards and in Balls for free- Funky Arsty Cool.
Step out of the norm and think about the possibilities you can create with this yarn!
Well, what this yarn consists of is lightly spun, sometimes whole pieces of silk tied together.
It's chunky, crazy and a step out of the normal. Perfect for show stopping pieces like belts,to a funky scarf, to an awesome bag, to a table runner,and adventurous ponchos!
let your creativity run wild with this yarn!

photo Darcy took of a Gal at Rhinebeck she is wearing a knitted hat and sweater in sari silk

How To Enter:
1. Visit Nicoles shop Darn Good Yarn and come back and leave a comment telling me what you like.

2. Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your post.
If You Dont have a blog but are on ravelry leave a comment about what you like from her shop with your ravelry name.

3.You get an entry for every person who leaves a comment saying they came from your blog post about the giveaway.

Deadline: November 13th at Midnight

Winners Of The Local Gringos Happy Hands Halloween Giveaway

2009-11-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

My youngest daughter Athena picked the 3 winners of the local gringos happy hands giveaway
Congratulations
Ennadoolf
Vickie
c'est mo! the tink-n-frog
please send me your mailing addresses at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
Thankyou everyone who entered and please stay tuned for more giveaways:)

~Alora's Halloween Party~

2009-10-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

Alora is in Kindegarten this year and she loves it her teacher is Miss Berglund she is a super sweet lady.
I took pictures of Alora lining up with her classmates outside today to go into class they were all dressed up in their costumes Alora wanted to be a wicked witch this year she was trying to scare everyone:)

~Athena's First Halloween Party~

2009-10-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Athena our 3 year old started preschool this year 2 days a week Thursday was her classes Halloween Party she went as a witch.
She was very excitted to dress up in a costume and go to a party she loves preschool and her classmates and her teacher Miss Martin she is the viking in the photo's:)

~Local Gringos & A Giveaway~

2009-10-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Local Gringos and a giveaway I love Maggie's lotions I have a bottle of Tea and Roses and it smells so good:)
We are giving away 3 Halloween Mini Samplers to 3 people who's names will be drawn on Halloween at midnight:)

HALLOWEEN TREAT 4 Fragrance Mini-Sampler Set HAPPY HANDS Goats Milk and Honey Hand Cremes for KnittersTrick or treat! Here's a delicious mini-sampler set of her four newest Happy Hands Hand Cremes for fall, enclosed in a festive bright orange organza bag stamped with a jolly jack-o-lantern!

In each mini-sampler, you'll get a sealed packet good for multiple applications (from 1/4 ounce to 1/2 ounce) of each of these four fragrances:

~ Autumn Wreath: Fall in a bottle! Woodsy and warm, balsam and cedar spiced with cloves and just a touch of vanilla.

~ Grapefruit Blossom: A gorgeous citrus blend of grapefruit and tangerine, lightly sweetened with lily.

~ Hippie Chick: A spicy patchouli-type blend of sandalwood and amber, softened and sweetened with lemongrass and narcissus.

~ Tall Cotton: The very light, clean scent of cotton with a subtle touch of fresh milk & vanilla.

What a great way to choose your favorite Happy Hands fragrance!

How "Happy Hands" Happened

Maggie Belize originally formulated Happy Hands for herself, after she tried -- and failed! -- to find a commercial product that worked for her.

Up in the high mountain desert Sandia Park, New Mexico, dry hands are a year-round problem.
She needed a creamy lotion that would deeply moisturize & soften her hands, but absorb quickly and NOT leave a greasy residue that would transfer to her knitting. And of course, it had to smell wonderful!

It took Maggie a year to work out this formula: a lotion that is so very thick and creamy so you only need a small dollop, quickly absorbed, nourishing and moisturizing with NO greasy residue; and glossy pure white, because she didn't want to add any artificial colors to her products.

Once she got the exact formula & feel that she wanted, Maggie discovered that all her friends wanted Happy Hands, too ... So she decided to try it out in her Etsy store.

Why "Happy Hands" Work So Well

~ Goat’s milk is naturally high in protein, triglycerides, and loaded with absorbable Vitamins A, B6, B12 and E ... making it an excellent natural moisturizer that helps hydrate and nourish your skin.

~ Bee's honey has been used in skin products since ancient times, because it is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

~ Shea butter comes from the nut of the African karite tree, and is an extremely therapeutic emollient, helping to heal cracked and damaged skin.

You can find these listed in the "Happy Hands" section of Local Gringos store, or feel free to request any of these Happy Hands individually, in 8-oz, 4-oz and 2-oz sizes! I have the Rose Tea sent and love it:)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
How To Enter:
1. Visit Her etsy shop and come back and leave a comment telling me what you like.

2. Blog about the giveaway and leave a comment with a link to your post.
If You Dont have a blog but are on ravelry leave a comment about what you like from her shop with your ravelry name.

3.You get an entry for every person who leaves a comment saying they came from your blog post about the giveaway.

Deadline To Enter: October 31st at Midnight

~My New York Trip~

2009-10-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

My hubby let me go to New York for a birthday gift I flew into Laguardia taking my cable needle necklace, knitting needles,tapestry needle, and knit kit with no problems from the security check points:)
I even had a madori while I was waiting to board the plane yum.I had to take a picture of my very first taxi ride.
Here are some of the first pictures of my arrival in NY visiting Sandra and her hubby and sweet dog Toffee.
We went to the Statue of Liberty the first day so I got my first subway exsperience taking the Metro to Battery Park then my first ferry ride out to the Statue of Liberty I will be posting more about my trip daily it was an amazing adventure that I will never forget:)

~How I Spent My Birthday Weekend~

2009-10-26T21:08:00.000-07:00

First I want to apologize for being so quiet lately I was sick for 3 weeks with a sinus infection then I went on a trip to NY and promise to post about the trip soon but since I have been back I have felt run down.
Saturday KathyB came to visit me she was on a road trip and came through the Mojave to see me we had a lovely visit.
Yesterday I spent the first part of the day with my hubby and girls we ate birthday cake chocolate my favorite the girls were very excitted and made me pictures and birthday cards and wanted me to eat cake with them at there tinkerbell table.
I drove to Los Angeles 112 miles away left about 3:40pm to see my Uncle Mike in the Hospitol.
Mike was born with a bad heart so 2 months ago when he went in for his regular check up he was told he had a tear in his aorta so he had to have surgery immediately the open heart surgery took 11 hours.
Mike has a ways to go to recover his trak hole is almost completely healed but for now he needs lots of care and supervision and is in rehab every day working hard.
I was so glad to get to spend time with Uncle Mike and Janet on my birthday we had a wonderful visit.
We are hoping he will be home in a month I’m just so glad he is alive and I just know he will have a full recovery he definitely has guardian angels watching over him and a wonderful girlfriend Janet who has been with him the whole time and the support of family and friends.Hugs Darcy

~Winner Of Knit The Season Giveaway~

2009-10-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

I had the girls help me this morning with the drawing they loved getting to help Alora was excitted to pick a paper out of the bowl and Athena proudly held it:)
Congratulations Anita
please contact me with your mailing address at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
And thankyou everyone who entered there are more giveaway's to come:)

~Knit The Season By Kate Jacob's Book Giveaway~

2009-10-07T08:40:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be sending one lucky winner this copy of Kate Jacobs latest Novel the third in The Friday Night Knitting Club Series.

The story begins a year after the end of Knit Two, with Dakota Walker's trip to spend the Christmas holidays with her Gran in Scotland, accompanied by her father, her grandparents, and her mother's best friend, Catherine.
Together, they share a trove of happy memories about past Christmases with Dakota's mom, Georgia Walker, from Georgia's childhood to her blissful time as a doting new mom.

From Thanksgiving through Hanukkah and Christmas to New Year's, Knit the Season is a story about the richness of family bonds and the joys of friendship.
Another heartwarming Friday Night knitting Club Novel From Author Kate Jacobs.

The release date for the book is November 3rd.

4 ways to enter:

1.Tell me which of Kate's books are your favorite and why?

2. Blog about and link back to the giveaway.

3.If someone leaves a comment saying they came from your blog with a link you get an extra entry.

4. You get one entry for following my blog:) (Follow Me Button Is In My Side Bar)

Deadline : October 25Th 09 My Birthday by Midnight

~Knitting The Season With Kate Jacobs~

2009-10-06T12:58:00.000-07:00

Picture Of Kate Jacobs and I At Her First Book Signing The Friday Night Knitting Club

First Stop On Book Signing Tour For Knit Two Author Kate Jacobs

Please pour yourself a cup of your favorite beverage, which for me this time of year is Starbucks Christmas blend and a biscotti, and settle in for a story.....

It all started February 2007 when living in Idaho we got orders to move to California's Mojave Desert.
A week after arriving at our new base I found out there was going to be a book signing for Author Kate Jacobs book The Friday Night Knitting Club.
The book signing was going to be in Studio City,California.
I had never driven in California and the state I had lived in for 29 years had one four lane freeway going through the entire state.
My hubby was understandably concerned but when I read Kate's book I felt deeply connected I could relate to the women in the story I to have formed friendships because of a shared love of the craft and feel the warmth and love that goes into every stitch.
I felt that Kate understands the true heart of a knitter and even though I have social anxiety and can get lost in a paper bag I made the decision to make the drive to meet the writer that so moved me.

This would be my first adventure in California and my very first book signing, so I printed off directions from map quest and went for it.
I found myself in rush hour traffic, pretty scary the first time you see it.
I made it to the yarn shop La Knitterie Parisienne.(The first picture in this post is of that first book signing)

to my surprise I found out that there would be a sequel: Knit Two came out November 25 2008 so I checked Kate's tour schedule and her first stop on the tour would be Encino, California at The Barnes & Noble.

I called and reserved my copies one for each of my bff's and one for myself.
This time I was prepared my hubby bought Magellan so he programmed the destination and she directed me to the book signing for Knit Two:)

I also bought Kate's book Comfort Food.Kate's books are a wonderful read from beginning to end.
You feel as though you are there experiencing everything with her characters, you can connect with and relate to their struggles and triumphs!
Kate is warm and personable I was so comfortable talking with her it was an enjoyable evening.
I ate at a lovely little restaurant by the book store called Rosti they serve delicious Tuscan home cooking totally worth the trip to Encino,California.

I have been sent advanced copies of her newest book Knit The Season
The third book in The Friday Night Knitting Club series.
One for my enjoyment and review which I plan to read on my trip to New York this month then do the review when I get back and one copy for a giveaway I will be putting up on my blog in the next couple of days.

~I'm Ready For Fall~

2009-10-02T23:23:00.000-07:00

I knit the Milkweed Shawl in Plucky Knitter Colorway Bev's Lava Lamp and Pagewood Farm Really Red.
I wanted to knit a shawl in fall colors for my birthday my hubby helped me block it today.
I'm knitting the pattern Toast in Plucky Knitter 100 % Cashmere color Dream To Me.
I'm hoping to knit up a hat to go with the shawl I like the pattern Snapdragon and want to knit it in Pagewood Farm's Really Red Worsted.
If you have any pattern suggestions for a hat you think would look nice with the Milkweed Shawl please share I would love your input.Hugs Darcy

~Finished Projects And Pagewood Farm~

2009-09-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

This Summer I went to Montana to visit my hubby's family and visited Wild Purls.
I bought Itches signed by Franklin Habit and some Pagewood Farm sock bites for knitting up my wee socks.
I fell in love with the colors and texture of these yarns they are just gorgeous.
Above are pictures of my visit to Wild Purls and their lovely shop and pictures of the wee socks I knit using #9 Bird Of Paradise and #22 Really Red. Here is Robin and Chuck Page's story
Pagewood Farm grew from Robin and Chuck Page’s love of fiber arts.
As hobbyists, they mastered the art of spinning 2-ply and novelty yarns.
Selling their yarns at various venues they soon developed a loyal following.
Robin studied under master spinners and dyers to hone her creative abilities and color sense resulting in completely original colorways and novelty yarns.
As Pagewood Farm continued to grow Robin developed a unique dye process to create hand dyed yarn colors unlike any other.
While still maintaining their handcrafting roots Pagewood Farm has expanded to be featured in yarn shops nationwide and are becoming known worldwide.
Their goal, to be at the creative lead in the handcrafted fiber industry, has resulted in numerous hand dyed sock yarn and other weight yarn blends available in an ever growing list of original colorways and tone-on-tone solids.
For spinners and needle felters, roving, locks and needle felting kits have been added.
New fiber product ideas are a constant crop at Pagewood Farm.

~Wee Tiny Bride And Groom Socks~

2009-09-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of test knitting the patterns for these wee tiny socks for Meg Bakewell and waited to show them to you until she could put the kits in her etsy shop bravelittleknitter.
Also you can purchase just the patterns on ravelry.
The kit includes plenty of yarn to knit both the bride and groom wee tiny socks, about 40 yards in total.
The yarn for the bride is an amazing 100% silk indie dyed confection in the colorway Champagne.
The groom's yarn is 100% merino wool in pure black, along with enough white in a merino-nylon blend for his shirt. Also included are pearly white size 8 glass beads which are knit into the bride's bodice, and a beading needle.

The six page pattern is laser printed with color photos, and includes detailed instructions for knitting with beads (for the bride) and intarsia in the round (for the groom).
The patterns are easy to follow and the wee socks are so darn cute.
Here are pictures of the ones I knit.

~Wigged Out~

2009-09-23T15:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my Hubby let me go shopping for a wig I found one that was close to the same style and color my hair was before it was fried by the hairdresser:)
Thankyou everyone for all your kind words it meant alot to me.Hugs Darcy

When It Rains It Pours

2009-09-21T15:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday I had my hair done by a new hairdresser she fried my hair it is like straw I cant put a brush or comb threw it because my hair breaks off.
I cried all weekend and thought nothing could distract me from this but then I went to the doctor to get my lab work results and now I know my hair will grow back but my Cholesterol is a different story.
My bad Cholesterol is really high and my good cholesterol is really low and my Dad died when I was 25 yrs old and my Mothers heart gave out on her at age 59 I took care of her the last year of her life and when they told me today this is genetics reality hit home.They are putting me on Zocor 10 mg I asked what the side effects could be and was told nausea,vomiting and liver damage so if anyone knows of a medicine for bad cholesterol that doesn't have scarry side effects please leave a comment all advice is appreciated.

I'm going to be on cholesterol medicine and they will be checking my liver every 3 months as sometimes the cholesterol medicine is hard on the liver also they are running test something to do with my kidneys.

My youngest is 3 yrs old and I will be 57 when she is 18 yrs old the question is will I be able to prevent happening to me what happened to my Moms Dad, and my parents?

How Do You Travel With Your Knitting?

2009-09-17T18:17:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a trip on Continental Airlines to New York to visit my friend Sandrasingh for my birthday next month and were going to Rhinebeck .
I'm so excitted but even though TSA says I can take my knitting needles is it really up to the security check point people right? I was told The Knit Kit cannot go in my carry on bag because of the thread cutter even though the site you buy it at says it is TSA Compliant so I'm taking my dental floss it works on cutting fingering and worsted weight yarn;)
I want to take my plastic Denise Interchangeable Needles.
Tell me what your exsperience with flying and your knitting needles and accessories has been and any tips you have? Hugs Darcy

~Yarndemon Design's Giveaway Winner~

2009-09-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Robynn's Ravings you are the winner of the Yarndemon Design's Giveaway:)please contact me with your mailing address at darcysknottyknitter@gmail.com
Thankyou everyone who participated:)

When You See A Stranger In The Mirror

2009-09-10T10:23:00.001-07:00

July 2009

Today September 10 2009

August 2007

This Summer I went home to Idaho to visit family and friends and when I saw the picture of me hugging my Son Skyler I was shocked that couldn't be me!!!

I was depressed and told my hubby I wanted to start eating healthier and lose weight he also needed to lose 40 pounds so we decided to do it together.

Tom has lost 16 pounds I think I have lost between 7 and 10 pounds.

I know as women we tend to be critical of ourselves which leads to more comfort eating instead of changing our diets I'm guilty of this and the weight doesn't just drop off.
Since we started eating healthier my husband has at times thought that I'm mad at him or in a bad mood but I'm just hungry and tired and I want fries and a burger.lol
I have stocked the house with healthy foods since July 28th and I'm noticing a gradual change in my appearance.

Two years ago I had lost alot of weight and loved how I looked and it showed in photos the big smile the look of confidence.

I want to blame it on menopause I want to blame it on hormone replacement but the truth is I got lazy I went for the quick fix meals and fillers.
I didn't want anyone to see me like this as you can see from the picture taken today second photo down from the top I still feel uncomfortable in my own body.
I know it takes time but dont we all want faster results.
I'm going to take you all my blogging friends with me on this journey so grab a carrot stick and lets do this thing.

I have goals here they are:

1.Lower my cholesterol

2. Lose 20 pounds

3.Like having my picture taken

4.To be able to wear jeans again without the elastic waist band

5.Like who I see in the mirror

6.Gain my confidence back

7.Keep the weight off!!!

Getting Skinny For My Knitting Contest

2009-09-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

Getting skinny for my knitting is having a contest for some lovely skeins of yarn and will knit a pair of socks for one lucky person please go check it out.Hugs Darcy

Hip Mountain Mama Natural Art Supplies Giveaway

2009-09-08T07:14:00.000-07:00

Check out the great back to school giveaway over at Hip Mountain Mama.
I know my 3 &4 yr old girls Alora and Athena love to draw they will sit for hours just drawing and coloring pictures:)

Alora Gets Birthday Gifts In The Mail From Grace

2009-09-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

Grace and Alora are penpals and Alora received a mouse to match the kitty Grace knit her she loves getting packages from her friend and she loved the card.
Alora wants us to play the card games she got and this weekend we will make the jewlery as well from the kit Grace sent her.Thankyou Grace:)

~Yarndemon Designs And A Giveaway~

2009-09-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yarndemon Designs and I are having a giveaway for her Tape Measure with Watermelon decorative cover for knitting crochet or crafts.
This is what Anita had to say:
I am a graphic artist by day and a crafter by night.
I love to knit and crochet.
I love all the books, patterns, and gadgets that go along with it! Like most knitters and crocheters I have quite a stash of all things related to the crafts.
I started making clay stitch markers to use and amuse myself.
Then I started sharing them with friends, one thing led to another.... and here I am with a little store on etsy!

I specialize in cute, whimsical, polymer clay stitch markers. They were featured in the Winter 2007/2008 issue of Knit Simple magazine. However, I also dabble in beaded stitch markers and other little knit-knacks.
Hugs, Anita

Description Of The Prize:

These tape measures are fun items to have or give as gifts. The juicy Watermelon cover is hand crocheted by Anita with 100% acrylic yarn & cotton yarn.

The plastic case contaings a retractable, non stretch fiberglass tape, 40 inches long and with metric on the reverse side. Each tape measure is approx. 2 1/4" wide x 3/4" depth.

A must for all knitting & crochet bags!
They would also be great for any other crafts that need measuring or just to stick in your purse, you just never know when you might need a tape measure!

There will be 1 winner and 3 ways to enter
Rules:
1.Go Check out Anita's shop then come back here and leave a comment saying what you liked.

2.Blog about this giveaway and link to it and come back and leave a comment saying you did.

3.If someone leaves a comment saying they came from your blog link to the giveaway your name gets entered again.

Deadline September 14th Midnight

~Isabella Mittens Kit Winner~

2009-09-01T15:28:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who enter our Giveaway and we have a winner! Julie from British Columbia Canada. Hope you enjoy knitting and wearing these lovely Isabella Mittens.

~Son Of Dishrag Tag~

2009-09-01T04:37:00.001-07:00

I have been tagged now the box should be here in a couple of days so the game has begun I'm ready to smoke the needles;)
here is a link to a friends blog where she exsplains how to play dish rag tag:)

~What's For Dinner~

2009-08-30T14:42:00.000-07:00

I have been making healthier meals and although my scale says I have only lost 1 pound I have gotten into 2 shirts that I couldn't before.
I bought some Tilapia fillets and squeezed fresh lemon juice on them then sprinkled them with lemon pepper and garlic powder and put thin pat's of butter on them.
baked at 400 degrees for twenty minutes.
I made a nice salad with ceasar dressing and the meal tasted great:)
If you have any receipes for fish that you could share I would love to try them.Hugs Darcy

~Alora's 5th Birthday~

2009-08-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a day of constant running to pickup gift wrap and cards and the cake then Rhonda and I secreted away in my room to wrap gifts.
Alora turned 5 years old yesterday and she really enjoyed her birthday.
Rhonda has been my adopted mom for 22 years she flew in from Idaho just to be here for this week.
Rhonda brought the girls a barbie vanity they love it and Alora received alot of clothes for school and a wii spongebob game and a barbie movie and lots of coloring books and crayons:)
Alora wanted a marbled cake with strawberry filling so one slice was pretty rich.lol

Darcy's Knotty Knitter

We Are Still Alive And Kicking:)

G is For Grandma:)

Constantinople The Owl:)

"O Becky Your So Naughty" Baldwin's Little Sister

Larry Crowne Video Knitting Joke:)

˙·٠•●♥ Summer Bliss ♥●•··˙

Tough Stuff Just Keep Your Chin Up:)

Here Comes The Sun

Update & Some Knitting:)

Here We Go Again

~*2011*~

`*Chillin With My Gnomies*`

When Bad Things Happen In 3's

~*Happy Thanksgiving*~

Beam N Read

Celebrated My Birthday:)

Relaxing And Knitting:)

~*Grace's Capelet*~

Summer Flies

Getting Healthy One Step At A Time

Winner Of The Puffy Mondaes Giveaway

~Puffy Mondaes And A Giveaway~

~Feeling More Rested~

~Amazing Grace~

Updates And Knitted and Needle Felted FO'S

~*Preparing For Surgery*~

~Needle Felting My Way Into Spring~

Visit To The Endodontist

Update On How I'm Doing

~*Update On How I'm Doing*~

~*In Memory Of Samantha*~

~I Will Be Gone For Awhile~

~♥ My Sweet Valentine ♥~

~*Grey Garments*~

~*Winner Sunshine Yarns Giveaway*~

~♥ Hey Cupcake Shawl For Lizet ♥~

~♥ Friday Fill-Ins ♥~

~♥ Happy 101 Blog Award ♥~

~*Visiting The Frog Pond*~

~*Sunshine Yarns & A Giveaway*~

Update On Samantha

~*The Lady Of The Water FO*~

~*Yarn Harlot Puts Up The Knit-Symbol*~

~*Ravelry Party At Unwind*~

~*Finished Simple Things Shawl*~

~*Knit & Crochet Hope Giveaway Winner*~

~*Last FO For 2009*~

~*Happy New Year*~

~*Update On Samantha*~

~*Merry Chritmas*~

Thankyou Samantha's Firsts Pkg Went Out Today :)

~*Update Knit And Crochet Hope Drive*~

~*Finished Projects*~

*~Winners Of Local Gringos Giveaway*~

~*Goodies In The mail From Leslie*~

~Your Are Vacuuming~

~*Local Gringos Giveaway*~

~*Some Finished Christmas Gifts*~

~Goodies In The Mail And A Project On The Needles~

Alora's Christmas Doll Is Done:)

~*Knitting And Crocheting Hope*~

~*Batty Ready For Dorrit*~

~*Winner Of The Mad Creations Giveaway*~

~Comfort And Caring~

~Samantha's Mitts~

~Mini Christmas Stocking Finished~

~*Happy Thanksgiving*~

~First Part Of The Day At RhineBeck~

~Mad Creations & A Giveaway~

Winner Of Darn Good Yarn Giveaway

~Baby It's Cold Outside~

NewYork Museum Of Modern Art

~*Thankyou For The Surprises*~

~*Yes It's A Wee Tiny Bat Sock*~

~*Darn Good Yarn & A Giveaway*~

Winners Of The Local Gringos Happy Hands Halloween Giveaway

~*Alora's Halloween Party*~

~*Athena's First Halloween Party*~

~*Local Gringos & A Giveaway*~

~2011~

`Chillin With My Gnomies`

~Happy Thanksgiving~

~Grace's Capelet~

~Preparing For Surgery~

~Update On How I'm Doing~

~In Memory Of Samantha~

~Grey Garments~

~Winner Sunshine Yarns Giveaway~

~Visiting The Frog Pond~

~Sunshine Yarns & A Giveaway~

~The Lady Of The Water FO~

~Yarn Harlot Puts Up The Knit-Symbol~

~Ravelry Party At Unwind~

~Finished Simple Things Shawl~

~Knit & Crochet Hope Giveaway Winner~

~Last FO For 2009~

~Happy New Year~

~Update On Samantha~

~Merry Chritmas~

~Update Knit And Crochet Hope Drive~

~Finished Projects~

~Winners Of Local Gringos Giveaway~

~Goodies In The mail From Leslie~

~Local Gringos Giveaway~

~Some Finished Christmas Gifts~

~Knitting And Crocheting Hope~

~Batty Ready For Dorrit~

~Winner Of The Mad Creations Giveaway~

~Happy Thanksgiving~

~Thankyou For The Surprises~

~Yes It's A Wee Tiny Bat Sock~

~Darn Good Yarn & A Giveaway~

~Alora's Halloween Party~

~Athena's First Halloween Party~

~Local Gringos & A Giveaway~

~How I Spent My Birthday Weekend~

~Winner Of Knit The Season Giveaway~

~Knit The Season By Kate Jacob's Book Giveaway~

~Knitting The Season With Kate Jacobs~

~I'm Ready For Fall~

~Finished Projects And Pagewood Farm~

~Wee Tiny Bride And Groom Socks~

~Wigged Out~

~Yarndemon Design's Giveaway Winner~

~Yarndemon Designs And A Giveaway~

~Isabella Mittens Kit Winner~

~Son Of Dishrag Tag~

~What's For Dinner~

~Alora's 5th Birthday~