Broomstick Lace Bracelet

Today, as they say, I have "killed two birds with one stone." (maybe three).  I was able to utilize some leftover yarn stash, use up a few of the many beautiful buttons that I have collected over the years and best of all learn a new crochet stitch that I have wanted to master for a long time called "Broomstick Lace". As I've said before, my grandmother could do  almost anything she put her mind to and was fearless in her attempt to try new things. She mastered the old "Broomstick Lace"  technique long ago and made such beautiful items using it. For nearly 40 years learning this stitch has been on my "to do" list. I decided it was time when a bracelet featured on Pinterest caught my eye. I won't lie it took some time to master; while it was easy enough, it felt awkward until I got used to it. I know at this rate, I won't even make a dent in my seemingly endless list of unfinished projects and materials but I guess every little bit helps and surprisingly I'm happy with this attempt. Not only did I learn something new,  I have a new summer accessory to wear and it was FREE!

Have a Happy and Safe 

Memorial Day Weekend!

Mothers Day

Thank you Pinterest! Yup, once again you have saved me the time and stress of having to find an easy but beautiful gift idea. This time one for my grandson to make and give to his Mom on Mother's Day!  Let's face it...don't we all have enough "little hand print art" already? Ok, I'll speak for myself....YES. A few weeks ago the Painted Pine Cone Zinnia project came up for me on Pinterest as the recommended "Pin". I was stunned at the beauty and realism of this simple project, and since I have a bucket of  pine cones  at my disposal and a Finally Finishing list of things to complete, I put the two together and went to work . I had the paint, the paint brushes and of course the 2-1/2 year old grandson. Little Drew wanted to do it himself and he did. Oh, while he was at it he also painted the the table, the chair, and himself.  

Happy Mother's Day

 to my daughter!

One of the best moms I know!

p.s. credit for this clever idea goes to:

 www.afancifultwist.typepad.com

Having A Ball

I have mentioned before that "it cracks me up" when well meaning friends (and a few strangers) tell me they too have unfinished projects hanging around, and would I like to finish them for them?  I don't have to think very long before I say NO!  Well, most of the time anyway, unless of course, it is a friend with a touching story "from the heart." (You know me, I'm all about the story. ) It seems that over 20 years ago, my friend, while expecting her first baby, decided to make an " Amish Puzzle Ball"  or Whimsie Ball as it is sometimes called for her baby to be.  She bought the supplies and started her project; who knows why she put it aside unfinished....but she did. Now over 20 years later, that baby girl is grown and has given birth to a daughter of her own. My friend is now the proud grandmother of a gorgeous baby girl, and the

Riley

puzzle ball has taken on new meaning. I have to say the project was a challenge for me. First off, I didn't have the instructions for the toy so had to depend on a "Google" search to help me out. Secondly, I didn't have experience in piecing together this type of project . (UGHHHH) Who knew every single piece had to be perfectly cut, sewn and stuffed in order to fit together?)

 Well, it certainly isn't perfect but I

 FINALLY FINISHED

 it and soon  little Ms. Riley will be the recipient of this thoughtful heirloom

Whimsie Ball!

 That is

 if I can get it away from my 

grandson Drew 

who thinks it is his now!