Ok, so my craft closet makeover is on hold until I can find a suitable location for some of the noncrafty items in there.
So instead, I’ve been trying to finish up some projects, use up of or give up some stash items, and decide what I really want to keep.
This has lead to a few blanket projects. Most are gifts, and not ready for their public debut, but one I have been thinking on for a while.
When I was little, my Grandma crocheted blankets got my Brother and I. She made them to match or rooms. My Brother’s was red, white, and blue, to match his toy soldier themed room. My room was bright yellow, with one wall papered in butterflies and flowers. I wish I had a picture handy to show you.
So, my Grandma studied that wallpaper on a visit, and made me a blanket of ten different colors. Nearly every color used in all those flowers and butterflies.
Here is a corner of it.

It’s now on Jess’ bed. It’s not as bright as it once was, and I still steal it back when I’m not feeling well. I think I’d like to make one for her and one for James.
I’ve started a bunch of projects since the new year, and accomplished very little.
Truth be told, I’m having trouble focusing on any one thing in all aspects of my life.
But, I’ve decided on a project, one that I’m hoping makes new year better. I plan to take on my “studio”. Honestly, it’s just a closet where I try to keep all things crafty. Right now there is a fold up cot in there, along with my stuff, which has just been crammed in there.
So, here is my “before” photo.

So, about a year ago, I lost my wedding band. I guess I’ll never know what happened for sure, but here’s what I think happened.
I tend to take my ring off while cleaning. When I did dishes, I put my ring on this little scottie dog ring holder my nephew gave me. Otherwise, I would just stick it in my pocket.
My theory is, the ring was in the pocket of a pair of jeans. Those jeans then made the trip to the laundromat. Said jeans deposited that ring in the washer, and I missed it. Someone found the ring later on, and took it to the “We Buy Your Gold” shop not half a block away from the laundromat.
When I realized it was gone, and then what most likely happened to it, I was sick.
I also came to realize, I missed wearing my ring. So, I used some of my Christmas money to buy a replacement.

(I took this in the car early this morning. I’m not quite that pale.) It’s not as wide or ornate as the original, but I’m ok with that.
So, I fully intended to send out Christmas cards. That didn’t happen. Then I thought New Year cards. Yeah…No. So I’m feeling a little bad about that. So I’m thinking of getting the kids for a picture, and sending out Valentines.
We saw my family for Christmas, and then had all of Nate’s family for New Year’s. Both visits were lots of fun.
Right now, I’m knitting for babies. (Whoa there, lets make it clear it’s for other people’s babies.) A little girl who has a date with the world at the end of January, and a mystery baby with plans on March.
Once I weave end some ends, I’ll have photos.
School is back in session tomorrow. I’m looking forward to it.

Ok, so I’m a bit early. That might be because we celebrated Christmas Sunday.
Why you ask? We visit family on Christmas.
Anyway, Santa comes to my house early, and the kids tore into their gifts before church.
The big winners were James’ wagon, and Jess’ 2012 season pass to Holiday World.
That night we had our Christmas dinner, which was a roast, with my neighbors/bil & sil, and a special visit from Carma!
Unfortunately, Carma could only stay the night, then she was off to finish her trip.

So I haven’t figured out the boot thing yet, so this year, Sankt Nikolaus left gift bags. Ok until I figure this out, right?
The highlights from Jess’ wish list:
“A time machine”
“A box and stuff to make a parallel universe.”
“My own TV show, that I would write, and call ‘ The Mildrid Story’ “
I love that kid.
In our house, we celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on Dec. 6th. (You can read more about it here.) So Letters are written to him and left in our shoes. Then St. Nick comes, collects the letters, and if you’ve been good, he leaves goodies in your shoe.
Now we don’t use our actual shoes. In years past, we’ve gotten be slippers on this say out made ones out of paper our felt.
This year, I’d like to come up with something more permanent. I realize I’ve only given myself a few days… I’ll keep you posted.
Erin’s life has hit a point of “something’s gotta give”. She will return when some things have been resolved. Take Care.

So I thought I would crank out a quick blanket project for Christmas …quick…blanket … Yeah, those two words don’t really go together, do they?
The yarn is acrylic and called “Charisma”, in Northern Lights. Improvised pattern.
About once a year I get so overwhelmed that I contemplate getting rid of all my knitting and craft supplies. Seriously. But this year that feeling goes above and beyond to the whole house. But in the meantime keep an eye out here for a virtual yard sale of craft/knitting supplies.
