tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58717006632867370202024-02-19T19:24:40.479+11:00Lulu Loves TeaA record of thankfulness, thoughts & creating joy.<br>
And maybe a bit of sewing, knitting, baking & other assorted crapJustinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-89261834435389087552018-04-28T11:10:00.001+10:002018-04-28T12:50:46.992+10:00Making a Weighted Blanket<div style="text-align: right;">
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In case you haven't heard about them, Weighted Blankets are taking the (sensory) world by storm.<br />
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They are a type of quilt which has some kind of material sandwiched between the layers to give weight. The idea behind this is that many people (often on the Autism Spectrum, but not only!) find it calming to have something like this either on their lap or over their whole body.<br />
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The weights can be from a number of materials, but a common option is the use of Poly Pellets, the same as those used for stuffing toys, especially Beanie Toys.<br />
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A dear friend of mine has been researching these as options for her child, but they are quite expensive.<br />
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So I volunteered to make one for her.<br />
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Sharing what we did in case it's useful for anyone else.<br />
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In all honesty, weighted blankets are worth what you pay for them. The materials are not overly expensive, however, there is a LOT of work involved in making them. It probably took us a total of 2 days to complete ours, with lots of help. It could have been done a little bit quicker, but not much.<br />
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In addition to the work involved, the shipping of something heavy is expensive! For our person, we calculated that we needed 5kg of beads. They weren't particularly expensive, but the shipping cost more than the beads.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhW2eN1CSJuwbpjyIxfWLaArfdLy0n6xMafobehlMwb0dP7rSYqE0ii1xTx_USmmd4EPC5WzF3xKaZs5lJGX_NEbfAULVyRV_2mZTrOF9XwvLU-lWCDZzQYYQJO2FsmvuMVrFBEN1YuvTJ/s1600/6poly+pellets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhW2eN1CSJuwbpjyIxfWLaArfdLy0n6xMafobehlMwb0dP7rSYqE0ii1xTx_USmmd4EPC5WzF3xKaZs5lJGX_NEbfAULVyRV_2mZTrOF9XwvLU-lWCDZzQYYQJO2FsmvuMVrFBEN1YuvTJ/s320/6poly+pellets.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Poly Pellets - everyone liked playing with them!</td></tr>
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If you are someone who is handy with a sewing machine and likes problem solving, then this is what we did.<br />
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I browsed a few tutorials online, and found this one to be the most helpful - <a href="https://www.mamasmiles.com/sewing-tutorial-how-to-make-a-weighted-sensory-blanket/" target="_blank">Mama Smiles Tutorial</a><br />
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I liked that there were explanations for how she approached it, and she has also incorporated suggestions from others who've made a blanket.<br />
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We bought a quilt cover from Ikea, because that saved us measuring and cutting (if you recall, I'm not so good at the straight line thing....). <a href="https://www.ikea.com/au/en/catalog/products/20358654/" target="_blank">This was the one we chose</a> - I just love the fabric. It nearly didn't make it to its intended owner ;)<br />
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Edit: we chose this because it's 100% cotton, and from experience we like how the Ikea fabrics wash and wear. It's worth checking what your recipient prefers, because many people have strong reactions to the feel of particular fabrics. 100% cotton is usually a good choice, but sometimes tricky to find so it's worth checking before you buy!<br />
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It may also be checking what to wash it with before you commence too - lots of people react to different laundry detergent, so use the one they prefer. These blankets are washable, but they are going to be heavy to do, and it's always a good idea to pre-wash fabric before sewing!<br />
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We pre-washed it. and once we laid it out to compare to it's recipient, we decided that half a single quilt would be adequate. This would suit a small adult, for handy reference.<br />
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We cut the quilt in half, finished off the edging on the raw edge (turned it under twice and stitched).<br />
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We left the bottom seam intact, and reinforced it by topstitching along that edge.<br />
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Then the measuring began. I had my favourite <a href="https://www.sewline.com.au/product/fabric-pencil/" target="_blank">Tailor's Chalk pencil</a> with me - it has 3 colours, which was very useful for keeping track of which lines to follow!<br />
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We aimed for 10cm / 4 inch square pockets for the beads to go into.<br />
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We measured the vertical channels first. These were spaced at 10 cm apart, and were simple straight lines to sew from top to bottom of the quilt.<br />
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This left the top of the channels open for pouring in the beads.<br />
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Before we began, more measuring! We measured the horizontal lines, spaced at 10 cm, marking at intervals across the quilt. Ideally, it would be good to use a rotary tailors' chalk to draw the lines, or use a long ruler & chalk. But I was happy to eyeball it using the marks to keep the lines straight.<br />
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We considered partially sewing the horizontal top of each pocket, leaving an inch for filling. But we decided this was a lot of fiddling for minimal benefit. At this point we didn't have the beads, so we weren't sure how tricky it would be to get them into the pockets!<br />
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<b>Calculating weights.</b><br />
Once we had measured, we had 15 channels, and 10 rows, giving 150 pockets in total.<br />
We had ordered 5 kg of beads (using estimates on the tutorial for blanket weight vs body weight).<br />
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This meant we needed to divide 5000g by 150, which gave us 33.3 g per pocket.<br />
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Once the beads arrived, we started measuring and pouring! This became a family affair with everyone helping out.<br />
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Based on tips from the tutorial, we fashioned a long funnel out of a cardboard roll (paper towel inner) & a toilet paper roll, which we cut to fit & to have a narrower tip.<br />
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It wasn't pretty, but the cardboard worked really well for this, allowing the beads to get to the bottom of the quilt more easily. I wasn't sure if the Poly Pollets would become static using a plastic tube.<br />
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For the first few rows, it was best to measure in the beads for every channel, and then sew from one side to the other, sealing all the channels at once.<br />
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We needed to keep shaking the beads into their pockets, by lifting the quilt - they did try to escape, but it wasn't a big problem!<br />
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Once the row was complete, we repeated, filling each pocket with 33g of beads, then sewing off at the 10 cm marks.<br />
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As we got closer to the top of the quilt, the channels became shallower.<br />
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This meant it was more effective to fill one pocket and sew at a time. Then I reversed the machine to allow for manoeuvring the quilt to allow the beads to 'fall' into the pocket.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5EMjAQL5lKiba05HL4vYx9L-ySxivDVw8qpBsMMne-Avo5Xgz34QIMdkLrCElWlK5WJTtM1SyKI8AyIW_qlBH01beN6LOlbYdyz_zZMfHEt3HTxC66nq9ZaX0NvhOUjJz6EHXyNwhIBTj/s1600/7sewing+pockets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5EMjAQL5lKiba05HL4vYx9L-ySxivDVw8qpBsMMne-Avo5Xgz34QIMdkLrCElWlK5WJTtM1SyKI8AyIW_qlBH01beN6LOlbYdyz_zZMfHEt3HTxC66nq9ZaX0NvhOUjJz6EHXyNwhIBTj/s320/7sewing+pockets.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewing the pockets - the beads look like shimmering pearls!</td></tr>
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By the end of the quilt, it had become quite heavy. I definitely had aching arms ! I would recommend using gloves to make it easier - light weight grippy gardening gloves (quilters use this trick). It was handy to have a large work area and helpers around to help shift the weight. We worked at the kitchen bench - the added height did seem to make it easier!<br />
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Once it was finished, I added an extra row of triple-stitching to ensure the beads were safely contained!<br />
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We were very happy with the end result. Everyone tried it out. It's definitely heavy, but the pockets spread out the weight which will be quite soothing. Playing with the beads through the fabric is also quite rewarding!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzUpvowMfZPgpVidhDGejT6nP4YRq2uGFtjc1ARvQoqU35CNx1EhWe_5FWDUjKOgNfWKOL8UEgxisqVP3B9QprTtdWISPbo-0jPuEX7FRXTXWftHDJcqAQNx6fXOxidfslnJpqozBZ5GX/s1600/9whole+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1120" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzUpvowMfZPgpVidhDGejT6nP4YRq2uGFtjc1ARvQoqU35CNx1EhWe_5FWDUjKOgNfWKOL8UEgxisqVP3B9QprTtdWISPbo-0jPuEX7FRXTXWftHDJcqAQNx6fXOxidfslnJpqozBZ5GX/s320/9whole+quilt.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished result!</td></tr>
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Bottom line? Unless you like making things and a bit of problem solving, I do think it's worth the price of purchasing the completed blankets. However, we enjoyed the process, and the children practised a lot of maths skills in the process. It also enabled us to make a full sized blanket for a fraction of the cost. The Ikea Quilt was $20, and the beads around $30 (check this). An equivalent quilt would have cost at least $150.<br />
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So we thought it was a success!<br />
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Have you had experience with making similar resources? Share your tips if you like!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJn7eWioLCfsn_F_zyCcu0OHQbsGNbuR0aZRUnqPNV-hxjySWB2kXUxXghGOA0Cs0way7RHTlza7eu92_I4eOFwHdYXfDIpvL79hyphenhyphenBAIVpOg5bLQ0F7jSiGtu4sdr_6r2doddCsmbwTKrV/s1600/9finishedshoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1083" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJn7eWioLCfsn_F_zyCcu0OHQbsGNbuR0aZRUnqPNV-hxjySWB2kXUxXghGOA0Cs0way7RHTlza7eu92_I4eOFwHdYXfDIpvL79hyphenhyphenBAIVpOg5bLQ0F7jSiGtu4sdr_6r2doddCsmbwTKrV/s320/9finishedshoes.jpg" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy recipient - I think it matches those red shoes, don't you?</td></tr>
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-30941253788374657152018-02-23T14:49:00.001+11:002018-02-23T14:51:10.706+11:00Swifts and Yarn Winders<br />
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Kris Kringle was very kind to me this past Christmas.<br />
My love of yarn-y things was indulged and I received some wished-for yarn-y equipment<br />
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I can't pick a favourite part of my present, because it was all awesome.<br />
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But I do love my Swift, and my Yarn Winder, and some people have been asking about them, so here goes...<br />
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As a child, I remember helping mum wind yarn into skeins to be washed, then from skeins into balls again.<br />
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It involved holding the yarn stretched between my hands for as long as it took her to wind up the ball.<br />
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Recently when I have purchased gloriously beautiful skeins of hand-dyed yarns, I've been revisiting my childhood skein-winding experiences.<br />
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However, my children get bored before I've had a chance to wind the yarn, so I have been using upside-down chairs or my knees (good excuse to sit and relax).<br />
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Those days are now over and my kids are interested in helping again! Playing with spinny things is way more fun than just holding some wool and staying still.<br />
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In fact, my daughter is more proficient at using the Swift & Yarn Winder than I am. I'm very grateful to her aunt for getting her into training quickly!<br />
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Here's some pictures of the Swift, the Ball Winder , and the final pretty cake of yarn. yes, really, it's called a cake.<br />
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The Swift opens like an umbrella to the right size for the skein of Yarn. It holds the yarn securely and spins freely to allow the winder to pull the yarn evenly onto the cake.<br />
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The winder in action - you turn the handle at the bottom to turn the spindle which the ball is on. The metal loop keeps the tension even.<br />
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Yarn is wound!</div>
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And a video of my dude winding the yarn onto the winder so you can see how it works. I generally run the winder a bit faster than that, but hey, he's only little. And the yarn was 'sticking' a bit.<br />
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-13594938871574957552018-02-23T12:29:00.003+11:002018-02-23T12:33:29.523+11:00Skiing with KidsOur favourite time of the year is when it gets chilly enough for the mountains to be coated in a glittering layer of snow.<br />
<br />
Our best family memories have been created on our ski trips.<br />
<br />
We have discovered that we love to be in that glorious environment, nature made magical with a covering of snow.<br />
<br />
Skiing has given us much both individually and as a family, and so we make a point of planning to ski every year. We are thankful that we're able to do so, although we also choose not to do other things so that we can!<br />
<br />
Skiing is the best mental health strategy I know.<br />
There is no option BUT to be mindful when I'm skiing. It could be because I'm not overly talented... I really have to concentrate - where I'm going, how I'm going to get there, are there gaps / bumps / moguls, people? I have to pay attention. <br />
<br />
This leaves me zero mental space for worrying about all the usual things that I worry about. Really all I have to do is (more-or-less) know where I'm going, and how to find a way back (although seeing as I cannot read a map to save my life, I usually rely on my husband or another skiing buddy for that bit... Returning to the same place over and over has been beneficial for me to understand how the runs and lifts connect to each other!<br />
<br />
Oh, and what I'm going to eat. And there is something doubly yummy about eating when you're skiing: it's cold, you're expending tremendous energy, and all the fabulous things are just soooo good to eat when it's cold and you're hungry (none of this summer 'it's-too-hot-to-cook-or-eat' business). Plus, there seems to be a fabulous German alpine food vibe: Pretzels, schnapps, Glühwein, and throw in a curry for good measure and everyone is happy... Of course, the fact that you're expending all that energy means you can eat more, right? Oh wait...<br />
<br />
The other benefit - we play together. This is such a great way to be outside and actually play together. No distractions, no technology (well, apart from photos). We're building family memories with our rituals (It is now compulsory that we sing the Sound of Music soundtrack on our drive to the snow each year). It's giving our children a chance to learn a skill they'll keep for life. And with a child with vision issues that will prevent his ever being great at catching a ball, we're keen to give him a sporting ability (that might even earn him some cred ;) )<br />
<br />
Here's some tips for you if you're considering a family snow holiday.<br />
<br />
<b>How do we organise ourselves?</b><br />
We have developed a bit of a system over the years. A lot of this is from experience now, having done this a few times with the children. Obviously needs have changed as the children change each year, but here is what we have learned! You can benefit from what we have learned through bitter experience.... (without any suffering on your part. You're welcome.)<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Take Your own Food</b><br />
Food up the Mountain is expensive. Understandably so - they have to get it transported up there in difficult conditions, and staff the services that provide it. While we always buy food up there, we take a lot with us, and have friends who manage without buying much at all.<br />
Some suggestions:<br />
Pack an insulated grocery bag with snacks, drinks, and some hot foods. Here are some things we've done over the years:<br />
* Taco meat (in Thermos) + mini bags of corn chips<br />
* Macaroni cheese (in Thermos)<br />
* Spring Veg Dip & cob loaf<br />
* Shredded BBQ Chicken in wraps (these can fit in a jacket pocket too)<br />
<br />
A thermos of hot water is also a great idea - you can easily make a hot chocolate or tea which will keep you going.<br />
<br />
Tip: buy a good quality Thermos (Thermos brand or similar) - they make a difference in keeping things hot!<br />
<br />
Also, look out for "Happy Hours" - hot chocolate at the Perisher Mid Station is cheaper at certain times (before 10.30 and if the major lift is on windhold).<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Take More Food: Food in the Car</b><br />
On one memorable evening driving down the mountain in bad conditions, the usual 45 min drive turned into 4+ hours. We were lucky because we didn't slide off the road in the snow (see Safety First below). We had desperately hungry and bored kids - again, we were thankful to be warm and dry.<br />
<br />
Since that adventure, we always keep extra food & drinks in the car, as well as charged up iPads/entertainment.<br />
<br />
Pack a spare fleece, trackies & uggies in the car for everyone. That way you can get out of wet/heavy ski gear, and get warm & comfy for the way home. Learn the art of changing in the car/car park ;) Pretty much everyone does it, and you've got thermals under everything, so it's all good :D<br />
<br />
Pack a garbage bag / ikea bag to take all the wet gear/boots. An old towel is also handy to protect the back of the car while getting organised.<br />
<br />
<b>Yep! Yet more Food: Pocket Snacks</b><br />
One of our weird family rituals is Pocket Snacks. We've converted friends to them too...<br />
A ziploc bag with high energy food that fits in your pocket. It's easy to get to something if you need a boost. The kids particularly need these, as the cold & the strenuous activity are exhausting. Hungry kids are cranky kids.<br />
The kinds of things we pack? Kit kats (we only eat these at the snow, must be some clever marketing going on there), nuts, dried fruit, chocolate coated biscuits, snakes lollies, protein bars, muesli bars<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Warm+Dry = Happy</b><br />
Cold + Wet is another way to have cranky kids. And therefore, cranky parents.<br />
For the warmest, happiest peeps:<br />
* thermals<br />
* proper ski socks (cheap at aldi)<br />
* mid layer (like a long sleeve tee, or a skivvy, but get technical fabrics that wick the moisture away - the old cotton skivvy from your childhood will just get sodden)<br />
* fleece<br />
* Ski pants - In our experience, the Bib & brace style is great for children, because it protects them from having snow go down their pants in their many tumbles<br />
* Ski jacket - it's worth getting the gear, they have pockets in the right places for the right things (eg. your Lift Ticket)<br />
* Buff/fleece cowl: again, cheap at Aldi - great for pulling up over mouth/face/nose while on the lifts<br />
* Balaclavas - these have been excellent in bitter conditions - again, lightweight fleece ones from Aldi have been great. Husband & I wear some lightweight silk ones (again from Aldi), or I have a fleece one that's good for really cold days<br />
* Helmets - Ski helmets keep kids (and you!) safe and warm. They are compulsory for kids in lessons, and can usually be hired free with any other gear. We wear them too, and I am certain I've been saved from some concussions by my helmet in a couple of nasty tumbles I've taken.<br />
* goggles - again, Aldi has cheap reliable ones - you really can't manage without these<br />
<br />
<b>Load up those pockets!</b><br />
Lip balm<br />
tissues/hanky<br />
lens cleaning cloth - often attached to one of the pockets of your coat<br />
Ziplock bag to put your phone in. Oh, and zip your phone in, every time. I've learned this one through bitter experience.<br />
<br />
<b>Safety First (even though I put it last, it really should be first!)</b><br />
* <b>Ski/Board Lessons </b>- for everyone!! See below!<br />
* <b>Driving </b>- Living in Australia, we don't often experience the hazardous conditions of driving on black ice or snow. You need to know how to handle the car, especially if something goes wrong and you start sliding on the snow & ice.<br />
An excellent video for identifying & handling black ice can be found <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49C7SFTydJI" target="_blank">here </a>- seriously it's 1 minute to watch, and could save your life.<br />
Other great tips can be found <a href="https://www.subaru.com.au/news/snow-tips" target="_blank">here </a>and <a href="https://www.perisher.com.au/plan-your-trip/new-to-perisher/subaru-driving-tips" target="_blank">here </a>(including planning ahead)<br />
<br />
<b>Random stuff</b><br />
At our ski fields in NSW this is what you need:<br />
<br />
* <b>National Parks Pass </b>- if you drive up to the resort, you need to purchase 1 for your car. You can book ahead online, or purchase in Jindabyne at their office.<br />
- if you catch the Skitube or a bus up to the resort, it is included in the fare.<br />
<br />
* <b>Chains </b>- if you are driving into the National Parks you <b>must</b> have chains, unless you have a <b>4WD</b>. There will be bays at the side of the road where you will be directed to put your chains on in difficult conditions. Whether you hire or buy them, do a practice run before you are up there in bitter, snowy conditions. There are also youtube how-to videos. Chains are sized according to the wheel/tyre size, so you do need to know which car you're going to use them for.<br />
<br />
* <b>Lift pass</b> If you want to ski/board down a slope, you have to get up it first. To ride a chairlift you need a pass. Of course, you could always trudge up the mountain but that would be tedious and tiring. Choose the fun option and buy a pass. The pass is worn in the sleeve of your jacket, and you scan it to enter the lift queue. The resorts (<a href="https://www.thredbo.com.au/" target="_blank">Thredbo</a>, <a href="http://www.selwynsnow.com.au/" target="_blank">Selwyn</a>, <a href="https://www.perisher.com.au/" target="_blank">Perisher</a>) have a range of deals you can check out online. Costco also sells some discounted deals that include lessons.<br />
<br />
* <b>Lessons</b> Everyone should do lessons! We put our kids into day programs, in which they learn to ski and are also given hot meals. It gives us a chance to have some fun together and cover more ground than we can with kids. As the kids' skills are going to surpass ours soon, we may not put them in the full day programs as often, but we still enjoy the time together!<br />
Adults should also have ski lessons, especially if you are a beginner or a bit rusty. There really should be a basic skills test that everyone has to pass before being allowed on a lift. We've rescued a number of people on difficult slopes that didn't actually know how to stop or turn.<br />
As a minimum you need to know how to:<br />
* snowplough to slow, stop & turn,<br />
* get on & off a lift safely. (I won't get started on the number of people who've nearly taken my eye out because they aren't following the instructions to safely carry their poles).<br />
You should also be familiar with the <b>Alpine Responsibility Code </b>which you can find <a href="https://www.perisher.com.au/terms-and-conditions/9-resort-information/404-alpine-responsibility-code" target="_blank">here </a> - it lists your responsibilities on the slopes, and includes things like who has right of way.<br />
<br />
I hope this answers a few questions and gives you encouragement to give the snow a go as a family holiday. If you're not quite certain yet, a great way to have a taster is to stay somewhere in the area with other attractions, such as a farm stay, so you can try a day on the slopes, and have fun things to do otherwise. The whole Snowy Mountains area is just so beautiful!<br />
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-76414360573773538092017-11-19T11:40:00.002+11:002017-11-19T12:39:39.436+11:00Traveling with Kids: Advice from Wise ChattersHello!<br />
It's been a while....<br />
<br />
All the things keep happening (illness, deadlines, birthday parties, ballet concerts, work, you name it!).<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I'm popping in to share a goldmine I have found...<br />
<br />
We are planning a very exciting trip to Europe next year, and I have been gleaning all the wisdom I can from friends who've done long haul flights, and planned and packed for a medium length holiday abroad.<br />
<br />
Of late, my life has been greatly enriched by a bunch of people known as "Chatters". They are fans of the Annabel Crabb & Leigh Sales podcast, <a href="http://www.chat10looks3.com/" target="_blank">Chat 10 Looks 3</a>, which I highly recommend if you want to listen in on some friends who chat about life, books, and TV, amongst other things. The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/chat10looks3/" target="_blank">group</a> has formed on Facebook, and has been a tremendous source of knowledge on an astounding range of topics.<br />
<br />
My <a href="http://dresden.com.au/" target="_blank">new glasses</a> are awesome (and didn't break the bank). I only found out about them through the Chatters.<br />
<br />
I have discovered books, TV, events, friends, and much other fabulous information through this group.<br />
<br />
In particular, the group has been wonderful at advice for Traveling Chatters, whether solo or accompanied.<br />
<br />
I've been looking closely at all the information relevant to traveling with children, and have summarised it below so that I (and others) can remember it, and trawl its depths for tips that will help them out.<br />
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Here's the first edition of useful travel info, with thanks to the Chatters. I am sure I will be updating it as more information is forthcoming. What else would you add?<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Suggestions for Bags & Packing Strategies<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Kids share a
suitcase</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">wheeled/backpack
hybrid: <a href="http://www.paddypallin.com.au/osprey-sojourn-25-60l-wheeled-luggage-updated.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;">http://www.paddypallin.com.au/osprey-sojourn-25-60l-wheeled…</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Avoid 1
suitcase each = 4 suitcase adults are trying to manage if kids can’t/won’t</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Stick to two
suitcases so adults can manage & have hands free for kids hands</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">1 Lg & 1
Med suitcase checked… 2 Lg carry on cases.
= Heaps of luggage</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Eg. Two
checked in cases, 1 large carry on backpack, handbag, small backpacks for kids.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Packing cubes!
(people love or hate them: good
organisation esp for sharing bags, but fewer nooks & crannies)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Large ziplock
bags can work like packing cubes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Pillowcases (1
clean clothes, 1 dirty) work better than cubes bc not rigid</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">1 backpacker
style backpack + roll on carry on for 2A, 2C (under 4).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Nest a
suitcase inside another - extra return luggage space</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">pack a folded
duffel bag – good for laundry / extra return space</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Carry on only,
eg Kathmandu backpacks for adults, Kathmandu roller bags for kids (5 & 7). No
waiting luggage at airports; easier to get around. This amount means adults can wheel the kids
bags / carry up stairs.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">OR wheeled
carry on case + backpack</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">One parent +
child per suitcase and small backpack</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">2A + 2C
(4yo): 2 Osprey backpack/wheelies (one
larger). Shoes & toiletries to
minimum. Kids had small backpacks for travel (trains & planes).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">1 case + 1
small carry on per adult; Kids = shared suitcase.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Rule</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">: if you buy something it has to fit in your
carryon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.bevan.54?fref=gc&dti=1943524862595047&rc=p"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;">2A</span></a>
+ 2C (11, 9). 2 60 L wheeled
backpacks. 2 carry on (kids). Day pack (mostly empty) w plane amusements
& for sightseeing </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">2A + 2C (>9
yo): 2 bags for parents; 1 smaller combined kids bag. 1 able to be a backpack</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">2A & 2C
(11yrs, 20 mths): Osprey Sojourn or meridian (60L) & 2 x 35L day packs
(osprey & black wolf) OR 35L + 9L Kids. Needed 2 x 35L bc of Work (clothes,
laptop)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">1-2 ripcurl
f-light bags because they have zip mesh dividing them nicely in half to
quarantine belongings for each person <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ozmosis.com.au%2Fwomens%2Faccessories%2Fbags%2Frip-curl-f-light-global-hurricane-travel-bag.html&h=ATNZbLLtuw4HG98P_j2zMbzFFLXhbeLiJAqr4pB3_t8f5TIRKweRfpHkdOI8wKxQ25Ud_RKbNho5uvWbY69RQlPVJLk2qP1prA6heIn8F7QMa7QN23vMz_nFdR4coaxxusOYT7oKDDR-Z6PzhnCxCLAbyw" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;">https://www.ozmosis.com.au/.../rip-curl-f-light-global...</span></a>
+ 2 large daypacks for carryon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Depends on
travel: Lots of travel, use fewer bags
(1 big case, 1 light backpack carry on). Staying in one place, more luggage
fine.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">You need less
than you think. Can always buy more</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">UK: use opshops for bags & clothes – if you
don’t want to keep them, drop them off somewhere else</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Suggestions for Carry-on Bags<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">carry-on bag: <span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;"><a href="http://www.paddypallin.com.au/osprey-ozone-convertible-22-50l-wheeled-luggage.html" target="_blank">http://www.paddypallin.com.au/osprey-ozone-convertible-22-5…</a></span></span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Suggestions for Kids’ carry-on Bags<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">7 &10 yos
can manage a backpack or roll along cabin bag each</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Kids wheely
carry on bags</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">6 yo - Trunki
Ride-on carryon. It was great! She pulled it after herself like a little puppy
when she wasn’t riding on it, using it as a spare seat, packing and repacking
her 4 little things (pillow, change of clothes, warm top, book). And when she
was tired, we could pull her along on it. 6 was the upper end age bracket</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">What to pack for kids how to entertain kids in
flight<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">DO NOT - I
repeat - <b>DO NOT get on when they start
boarding</b> - that is at least 20 minutes in a confined space no one
under the age of 16 needs. Get kids to run around, play, make noise during that
time. </span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">In their own
bags: reading <b>books</b> coloured <b>pencils</b></span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">A4 ring-bound <b>sketch pad</b> to draw or write about the
trip.</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Wrapped presents</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
(small things) – open one per hour</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Pack <b>snacks</b>. In case small human not keen on
plane food</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Play doh</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">!
(2-3yo - even a new colour = refreshed
enthusiasm)</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Mix of <b>favourite toys</b> and books & some new
stuff</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Wrap toys for
added excitement</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Overnight
flights work well: routine – get into
pjs, watch movie to chill out.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">New</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
<b>toys</b>. Unseen before trip. Will keep
attention.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">in flight
entertainment can be pretty good. Go online to check at airline website</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">pre-book children’s
meals online for each leg there and home (not always automatic)</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">the magic bag</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
cheap & new things eg. twistable <b>crayons</b>,
<b>notepad</b>, small <b>play doh</b> tubs, magnetic puzzles... when kid gets bored, something
comes else comes out. We’ve used it many times and it never loses its
magic. PS kids aren’t allowed to see what’s in the magic bag because then
it loses its power.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Chuppa chup</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
lollipops/ lollies for take off and landing (descent can be worse)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">travel <b>jigsaws</b>, <b>colouring</b> books and <b>iPad</b>,
in flight movies without sounds (had headphones but she didn’t like them).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">iPads need to
be turned off during take off/landing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">kids meals can
be loaded with sugar, take snacks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">I was saved by
a roll of <b>sticky tape</b>!! We taped
fingers together and explored properties and possibilities of the tape. We
survived. Mind you, can’t imagine that this could be planned or anticipated.
Nonetheless, I suggest pack a roll, JUST IN CASE.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">washi tape</span></b></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Magnadoodle</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
/ etch a sketch</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">proper <b>kids earphones</b>, lots of <b>stickers</b>, <b>washi tape</b>, <b>triangle crayons</b>
(don't roll off the tray), craft paper books.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Draw a road on
paper & stick on the tray, made some paper trees, and he drove the toy car
around for ages.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">toy car on a piece of wool</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;"> so it could be fished back if it fell on the
ground. </span></li>
<li style="text-indent: 0px;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="line-height: 107%;">'</span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold; line-height: 107%;">man down' rule</span></span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
on the crayons, if any fall, they stay there. I wasn't ferreting around on an
airplane floor for a crayon.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://myboogieboard.com/" target="_blank">Boogie Board</a></span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="http://myboogieboard.com/" target="_blank"></a>(bit like a magnadoodle)</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Magnetic activity board</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tigertribe.com.au%2Fmagna-carry-emergency-rescue&h=ATMnMyj1xLLR2LkjSF5QBTRWTN2ipwDLLrZpRbIKscDb7WcE0jyHhUopYDUN0gtXMVJM0ccKI4VXImBdPVIeFK7vf_bwuh9cVO6UlIlg9oYBd_-aKLgoyoo2OKfInZ-N1hIaoq7geJrJnmLErMkPGbboLA" target="_blank"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;">http://www.tigertribe.com.au/magna-carry-emergency-rescue</span></a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">box of <b>cereal</b> in carry on for ultra fussy
eater (wouldn’t eat unfamiliar food)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">keep pulling
out new books, games, new games and movies on the ipad.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Eye masks</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
- Kmart have animal themed sleep eye masks- really comfy and novelty.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Balloons</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
are good for the airport, don't take up too much space.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Remember every
song, hand game (round and round the garden) for when no screens possible</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Drugs if you
need to - test first as some make kids hyper. (Phenergan, Vallergan)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">My policy is
to waive normal rules around screen time. Watch lots of movies & programmes,</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Colouring/puzzle
books and pencils, a <b>cuddly</b></span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">walks</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
around the cabin.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">walking and <b>dancing</b> in the plane, who cares as long
as they are entertained</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Make friends
with the attendants ;) they might even take the kids for 10 min</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Not too much
screen as it will keep them awake</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Panadol</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
handy for sore ear</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Lots of quiet
toys, lots of snacks, drawing stuff.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Spare clothes
for everyone essential! In a ziplock bag</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Mini UHT <b>milks</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">One grown up order
a special meal - they're brought out first & so there's always a pair of
grown up hands free.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">pipe cleaners</span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">
and <b>cellophane</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">A <b>plastic slinky</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">My motto
travelling long haul with two little people is "some of it will be crap
but most of it will be fine".</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">To fast track
jet lag get as much natural day light as possible</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Washing considerations<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Consider
weather for washing:</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Winter in
Europe / UK – washing hard to dry (lines no good, check for tumble dryers)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">In Winter kids
likely to get wet / muddy – may need more clothes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Check if you
can wash / tumble dry at accommodation. May need to pack more than 3 days’
worth if not.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Washing 3-4
days works</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://thescrubba.com.au/" target="_blank">Scrubba bags</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">waterproof bag
for wet/dirty washing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Pillowcase for
dirty clothes</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Traveling with littlies<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">order
groceries online to have bulky things like nappies delivered on arrival</span></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Littles & Sleeping on the Plane<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Travel
overnight</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Travel to
arrive at night so they go straight to bed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Try to get
them to sleep when it’s their night time.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Bring a pillow
so they can lie across Dad comfortably (for both)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">sleep mask</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">ignore the
routine/naps. Night time is a bit different but don’t force sleep. Mine always
stuff up sleep plans by napping in the car to or from airport anyway...</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">scheduling sleeps
may not work due to excitement: try your best to help her rest / sleep however
you can.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Don't try and
force the sleep, if it happens, it happens.</span></li>
<li><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.planepal.com.au/" target="_blank">plane pal</a></span></b><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://www.planepal.com.au/" target="_blank"></a>- laying flat so much easier (check website for airlines that allow). Ages - depends on 1 or 2 kids & how tall.
Could have kids lie horizontally across them so that one was lying across 2
seats in the space where legs go, & other lying across two seats. (tall
kids, were comfortable, but max age would be 6-8?? Depends on height, they rest
on you). We had a window row of 3 so didn’t bother anyone. See Plane Pal
Facebook page</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Sleep when
they sleep</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "century gothic" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -18pt;">Try to make
them sleep every 2 to 3 hours</span></li>
</ul>
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-78033551812862812752017-08-02T13:00:00.001+10:002017-08-02T18:04:48.103+10:00Sorry?I just got off the phone from a conversation with one of my Besties. We've known each other for a *ahem* long while now, been through lots of stuff together, figuring out how to mother our kids without screwing them up too much, you know the usual kind of stuff.<br />
<br />
So it's always awesome to talk with her. And it's EPIC when there are no small humans around to interrupt us.... It was epic today.<br />
<br />
But we did have a minor challenge. I have no voice. You know, like laryngitis.... keeps dropping in and out like a dodgy phone connection.<br />
<br />
But, being the generous friend I am, I remained committed to keeping up my side of the conversation. I'm determined, if nothing else.<br />
<br />
Being the generous friend that she is (which may be more pertinent in this case), she also persevered. And let me tell you, her end of the deal was much tougher...<br />
<br />
Filling in the gaps, adding in the words and syllables that just didn't come out .... Like those "you're a certified genius if you can read this" memes with all the gaps.<br />
<br />
If you could ask her right now, she would be able to tell you that it was, well, somewhat exhausting. Nothing to do with my charming personality and sparkling wit, of course. Just the strain of having to predict, and infer what the heck I was rambling on about.<br />
<br />
I got to thinking about how similar it is to having a hearing impairment.<br />
<br />
I was born with a 20% hearing loss. Nothing much to be done about it in my day. I don't think it even occurred to my parents to let my teachers know that it might be relevant. These days, a 20% hearing loss is a marker that a child is at risk of reading difficulties (if you can't hear the sounds, it's going to be hard to link them to those pesky letters).<br />
<br />
For some reason that didn't happen in my case. In fact, as I grew older I think it enhanced my ability to get lost in a good book (I certainly was able to block out the sound of mum telling me to set the table...)<br />
<br />
But it also meant that I struggled to keep up with a group conversation. By the time my brain had filled in the gaps, things had moved on.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2haXama77y0yl3hP2EWcoV9W1foWoCbsqyqWEsqs-9CXRscSJVQmPqgOKJTUxtIF20hQWE1fq-zxkbiKuTncBdyQSzrIMMLALmWJo1BZf79zOp2yeUgB7xFa9-7xYLXBaIFYs9XvSMrT/s1600/cant+hear+you+meme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="536" data-original-width="1024" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2haXama77y0yl3hP2EWcoV9W1foWoCbsqyqWEsqs-9CXRscSJVQmPqgOKJTUxtIF20hQWE1fq-zxkbiKuTncBdyQSzrIMMLALmWJo1BZf79zOp2yeUgB7xFa9-7xYLXBaIFYs9XvSMrT/s320/cant+hear+you+meme.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Whispering with friends at a sleepover? No chance... No friends?<br />
<br />
Someone discreetly giving me information in an undertone? Well, let's say it was definitely discreet - because I never heard it.<br />
<br />
TV? A tiresome struggle. We now use subtitles constantly. I sure am thankful for that crazy speed reading program we all did in primary school - all of us sitting in a darkened hall while the words flicked up faster and faster - I always loved that challenge. So glad that skill has translated to something useful in my adult life!<br />
<br />
Movies? Not a chance. You may think that the theatre sound is ear-splittingly loud. Yes, it is. The music, the sound effects etc. But the speech? Usually the clarity is so poor, that despite the deafening (pun intended) volume, I have no idea what is going on.<br />
<br />
And those are just the fun things...<br />
<br />
Public announcements? If I'm lucky I'll understand them (jokes about City Rail announcements aside)<br />
<br />
Quiet conversations with an upset child or a friend. Heartbreakingly frustrating to say, "I'm so sorry, I didn't hear that, can you tell me again?"<br />
<br />
Professional training... No, we didn't bother to use microphones or they just don't work in this echoing hall. Or even have the speaker stand up. Discrimination? Sorry? I didn't quite catch that?<br />
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Daily life has been <b>exhausting</b> at best, <b>isolating </b>and <b>soul-crushing</b> at worst.<br />
<br />
But I'm lucky, because I know I have a hearing loss. So at least I understand why I experience those things. And my hearing loss is minimal. I also have Hearing Aids now, which have made me wonder how on earth I was coping without them. The cost of Hearing Aids is so prohibitive that again, this makes me part of a privileged few.<br />
<br />
What about the percentage of the population which doesn't realise they have a hearing loss? That this is their normal. Particularly children.<br />
<br />
Do you want to know what it could be like to have a hearing impairment?<br />
<br />
I've listed some great simulators <a href="http://www.starkey.com.au/hearing-loss-simulator" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="https://www.hear-the-world.com/en/knowledge/hearing-loss/what-hearing-loss-sounds-like" target="_blank">here </a>and <a href="https://www.hearinglikeme.com/hearing-loss-simulator/" target="_blank">here</a>. They're all a bit different - it's worth checking them out if you have the time.<br />
<br />
I think we can do better. What can we do?<br />
<br />
* look at people when we speak to them.<br />
<br />
* have options like subtitles available on every program - you have no idea how many programs leave me crying with frustration when I've tried to watch them - even though they would have had a subtitle track when they were aired somewhere, sometime.<br />
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* speak clearly when announcements are made and have visuals attached<br />
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* make sure amplification works.<br />
<br />
* have speakers stand up and face the group when contributing to a group discussion<br />
<br />
* use apps to check whether your work environment is too loud (there are free decibel readers like this <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gamebasic.decibel&hl=en" target="_blank">one</a>), and wear the protective equipment - once it's gone, its gone!<br />
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If you think your hearing is changing, go see an Audiologist. Right now! They can figure out what will help you the most, and help your brain to keep connections healthy. And truly, the miracle of modern hearing aids is worth exploring. The technology has changed astoundingly in the last 20 years (when all they did was make everything loud) to now when they can be tailored to your specific losses, and be controlled by your mobile phone! Amongst all the fabulous features I can control with my phone (no I'm not texting in your meeting, I'm shutting out the sound of all the annoying people behind me who won't. shut. up), my favourite is the 'off' setting. Nope, can't hear you at all! La La La La La<br />
<br />
Be awesome, like my Besties, who have cried with me over my frustration and isolation (although that may be because a particular Madonna movie that shall remain unnamed was really that awful), and make sure I know what's going on.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9n9ACtvTGYwCcn20jsIHE8-JIuaBEzwI69u5jN6MaPPvzW7_rGDcdQrS325BmJTcUDYC_Z639FSZFmu7dQJK0lc8MBit77WrWAHTdPh-2S22Z_rrG0cOgeJlbq2Srw6slIQxw23NfRGO/s1600/speaking+clearly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM9n9ACtvTGYwCcn20jsIHE8-JIuaBEzwI69u5jN6MaPPvzW7_rGDcdQrS325BmJTcUDYC_Z639FSZFmu7dQJK0lc8MBit77WrWAHTdPh-2S22Z_rrG0cOgeJlbq2Srw6slIQxw23NfRGO/s320/speaking+clearly.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://actiondeafness.org.uk/product/deaf-awareness-posters/</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Have you got tips for making sure you can be heard by others?Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-63710139535379160782017-07-12T22:06:00.000+10:002017-07-12T22:06:01.999+10:00Sewing: Making a BYO Mug Bag #waronwasteIt's been fabulous to see people responding to the <a href="http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/war-on-waste/DO1624H001S00?gclid=Cj0KEQjwkZfLBRCzg-69tJy84N8BEiQAffAwqro65m-TM8qngqx7ytnyxnmdaudCbXnHKQeCotmn-R0aAh3d8P8HAQ" target="_blank">War on Waste</a> program that ran on the ABC recently. What a great job he's done making us <b>see</b> the monster we are creating. And in propelling us to make simple, yet powerful, changes.<br />
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I've been pondering why I don't take my own mug more often. I'm quite keen to, but just don't remember. I realised one of the problems is that it would be rolling around in my bag. After some serious tea consumption and despite my best efforts, there may be a drop or two left. As well as being a crying shame (to waste tea) it would also mess up the <strike>highly organised and streamlined </strike>crazy dumping ground that is my bag.<br />
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I've come up with a solution! A BYO Mug bag that can contain any drips, and be easily cleaned.<br />
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I have some laminated fabric taking up space in my stash of fabrics.<br />
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I'm sure there is something terribly bad for the environment about this fabric, but seeing as I already have it, I might as well put it to good use so it can redeem itself.<br />
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If you're interested in making one yourself, here's my tutorial. This is a pretty simple project, as I designed this to simplify tricky sewing manoeuvres (basically, I'm lazy) If you can sew a straight line, you can do this!<br />
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<b>Step 1: Make a cup of tea:</b><br />
You'll spend the rest of your project-making time trying to avoid knocking it over while you wrangle fabric and sewing machines, but it will fortify you. <b>Do not skip this step!</b><br />
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<b>Step 2: Collate your resources:</b><br />
<b>Laminated fabric </b>- I bought mine years ago at Spotlight, it's pretty lightweight so I will line it with fleece to protect the mug a little (I will have a breakable mug because I can't bear drinking out of plastic. Now I really sound like a tea snob...). <b>Oilcloth </b>is another funky alternative that comes in some fabulous designs. I've also heard it's possible to get an iron-on laminate for cotton fabric.<br />
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<b>Laminate - Cut one 8 inch x 44 inch strip </b><br />
(this was the width of my fabric which was easy, and it's perfect for a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/KeepCup-12-Ounce-Reusable-Coffee-Medium/dp/B00KW9DGJ6" target="_blank">Keep Cup</a>, but if you have a taller mug, I think an 8 x 46 inch strip would be even better!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjdV8hfm0eZ0nRMgSH7JPG5TPx72zKB0MoSFfRU983sm9iVbq6qEU6v6Nqo3cW-Rp251IW8nEg86TrTIIam_75bs-zx1D0Bay0mBvPSlGR0kWTgDqn2hvnEKYaIGT8fN3Amz518Mo1zxNP/s1600/1499767089313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="898" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjdV8hfm0eZ0nRMgSH7JPG5TPx72zKB0MoSFfRU983sm9iVbq6qEU6v6Nqo3cW-Rp251IW8nEg86TrTIIam_75bs-zx1D0Bay0mBvPSlGR0kWTgDqn2hvnEKYaIGT8fN3Amz518Mo1zxNP/s320/1499767089313.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Fleece </b>- this was to provide a bit of padding for my mug, as well as to reinforce the outer fabric a little. You could also use <b>interfacing or flannelette </b>for strength instead, just take care with ironing the laminate!<br />
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<b>Fleece - Cut one 8 inch x 22 inch strip </b>(or 8 x 23 if you do the longer length) - half the length of the laminate<br />
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<b>Elastic </b>- a narrow braided elastic is probably best. I tried with Hat Elastic but it slipped out of the stitching. <br />
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<b>Elastic - Cut one 15 inch length</b><br />
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<b>Sticky Tape</b> - the magic tape kind - Laminated Fabrics don't play nice with sewing machines, so you will use this on the bottom of the presser foot (the bit on the sewing machine that holds down the fabric as it goes through. You only need to do this when the laminate is right side out. Putting some paper over the project would also help here.<br />
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<b>Sewing machine </b><br />
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<b>Seam allowances are 1/2 inch</b><br />
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<b>Step 3:</b><br />
Fold your laminated fabric so it has <b>right sides together </b>with the <b>short edges matching</b><br />
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Place the fleece / interfacing on top of it, aligning with the edges of the laminate<br />
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Fold your elastic in half, and place <b>between</b> the right sides of the laminate, with the ends sticking out slightly (the loop is sandwiched between the laminate). It needs to be in the middle (see the photo) - you can use pins to keep in place, but they will make holes in your fabric (not a big deal). I avoid pinning at all costs<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZTxrt4RKKLKEehBzQNBUG0kM2kc6SIFrv7hjMrE727vBj1Uc_5DmQkpGJrvofUCy-pNr2v9l2Nvey99piZ7mGduuAQCdSmLUhvp68mAXh34GEPsSxaUviJZ_HD-dYBMh4mB_EetY043IV/s1600/1499767304497_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZTxrt4RKKLKEehBzQNBUG0kM2kc6SIFrv7hjMrE727vBj1Uc_5DmQkpGJrvofUCy-pNr2v9l2Nvey99piZ7mGduuAQCdSmLUhvp68mAXh34GEPsSxaUviJZ_HD-dYBMh4mB_EetY043IV/s320/1499767304497_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elastic in between the right sides of the laminate. The fleece will go on top once the laminate is placed back down</td></tr>
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Sew a straight seam.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRUdHYAIvXB8culQKP69haOEDqcNGmRKL0ufHKZ3q27aPPIIoxQbOoTCzxNqLRekSdTv-x3-kiUMmS34pGwiqmMCZAi46RToVakfjRo-NjrJL4Uddah2791wSzX4I14_pt1_NaGIyze3G/s1600/1499858859257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRUdHYAIvXB8culQKP69haOEDqcNGmRKL0ufHKZ3q27aPPIIoxQbOoTCzxNqLRekSdTv-x3-kiUMmS34pGwiqmMCZAi46RToVakfjRo-NjrJL4Uddah2791wSzX4I14_pt1_NaGIyze3G/s320/1499858859257.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See where the elastic is poking out? Go back & forth over that a couple of times </td></tr>
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When you sew over the elastic, use your sewing machine reverse function to back up & go over this again to strengthen it. <br />
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Continue on your merry way sewing until you reach the edge.<br />
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<b>Step 4</b><br />
Turn the sandwich out the right way - the elastic loop will now be on the outside, and the laminate will face out.<br />
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The fleece will be inside the sandwich.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNG4egct_3GHKpzX9BzZX__YpPyU8m4UTLZIz2B7UjDpd-DpCMFo_xYBhSRPU4Wsgve5U__VwZZC-pUS8FT_tBTDPDvYgynZmJ7reeFy3ttl2YdfLgLGKjmvDhOjswaJYlgjVILqYG3tt/s1600/1499858992135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1600" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNG4egct_3GHKpzX9BzZX__YpPyU8m4UTLZIz2B7UjDpd-DpCMFo_xYBhSRPU4Wsgve5U__VwZZC-pUS8FT_tBTDPDvYgynZmJ7reeFy3ttl2YdfLgLGKjmvDhOjswaJYlgjVILqYG3tt/s320/1499858992135.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right way out - laminate is wrapped around the fleece, and the elastic has been sewn into the seam you just made (it's hard to spot, but it's sticking out at the end)</td></tr>
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Trim the edges if yours looks like a dog's breakfast (like mine) and /or you can be bothered.<br />
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Now for some tricks.<br />
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<b>Step 5 </b><br />
Remove your presser foot, and place a small piece of magic sticky tape on the base of it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYn2qiB4exi-f1vmJ75B04xu8W3Js3QcffVjCdH1Ta0LCW3ylQi92__vcKYSTqRTEUsTb9vv8dqJcF7o0zT_ZkSn_2jtNVnIOzYbKs8L7IrTxhgXxH7LE76mlLrrxU2RnbbqgqQE2Qj3l/s1600/1499858777429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1438" data-original-width="1440" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYn2qiB4exi-f1vmJ75B04xu8W3Js3QcffVjCdH1Ta0LCW3ylQi92__vcKYSTqRTEUsTb9vv8dqJcF7o0zT_ZkSn_2jtNVnIOzYbKs8L7IrTxhgXxH7LE76mlLrrxU2RnbbqgqQE2Qj3l/s320/1499858777429.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once you have your sticky tape on the underside of the presser foot, trim the excess</td></tr>
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Make sure it doesn't cover the hole in the foot that the needle goes through. <br />
Pop the presser foot back onto the machine.<br />
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Take your sandwich, and fold it in half, lining up the short edges.<br />
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If you prefer one side to the other have it facing inwards (so it becomes the outside of the bag) - but really it shouldn't matter as both sides are the same.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMTGjDtKqI24fR6Qc0iNUfnkOLf4BWQdV4DNTf5L30_QLw6OY86BjRyoCFZrPAtz-KXMSwnOXIXf5dOj5Oo8EtKsKQTMtO19Lk9myIj8VJn51IXv2RXZtEA7_Gg9wZjhU3w02V5U7hwAc/s1600/1499859225264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1224" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMTGjDtKqI24fR6Qc0iNUfnkOLf4BWQdV4DNTf5L30_QLw6OY86BjRyoCFZrPAtz-KXMSwnOXIXf5dOj5Oo8EtKsKQTMtO19Lk9myIj8VJn51IXv2RXZtEA7_Gg9wZjhU3w02V5U7hwAc/s320/1499859225264.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This can be a bit tricky because of the laminate - you may have to push it through the machine a little.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Sew down each side of the bag.<br />
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<b>Step 6: Making a base for the bag</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
While it is still inside out.<br />
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Pinch one side seam and make it match to the crease at the bottom of the bag.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigrbCsetrUs0I4krzfh9if1wzOlBYpMokPm7kteFlerFl2bntr0TLaxmglurgTgprJehpgzIULUVcbhqQ-pX6gjzvucGVILsOobX9EvATM2xvDIcH4eFbcWqpAv-kJR4gO22rLdWfJdNwa/s1600/1499859282272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigrbCsetrUs0I4krzfh9if1wzOlBYpMokPm7kteFlerFl2bntr0TLaxmglurgTgprJehpgzIULUVcbhqQ-pX6gjzvucGVILsOobX9EvATM2xvDIcH4eFbcWqpAv-kJR4gO22rLdWfJdNwa/s320/1499859282272.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Underneath that seam, I have pressed the crease of the base of the bag.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Measure from the point of the triangle 1.5 inches along the base (crease) of the bag, mark, and draw a line across the bag (see picture)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifd015UCsf-__J_-d6CLXGDdKlhdmBlDnehg5FP7IBUUXbWVod_5HCYdhcsNQJedT6xMgQz7uNIdg0QDf7Y_uW2YWRNPRJ1ZU1OAY8Ho4BeRgxNoelCXf82X-XBgNYxHVjvUiong3nZ50A/s1600/1499859349244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifd015UCsf-__J_-d6CLXGDdKlhdmBlDnehg5FP7IBUUXbWVod_5HCYdhcsNQJedT6xMgQz7uNIdg0QDf7Y_uW2YWRNPRJ1ZU1OAY8Ho4BeRgxNoelCXf82X-XBgNYxHVjvUiong3nZ50A/s320/1499859349244.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That may not look like 1.5 inches, but trust me, it's supposed to be!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Repeat on the other side.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOFGvj6xzKJgvO9wEvIV2RJQuXJB7T57KNNs2nQsTOmFAW69P57pTkTTKs0o2P1FcUnBrtd1RBL7O8rR30FA3D32elqqwrxtoeJP4s2NzSfGKMNWD7r1gFiQhvoS-p8_vOII5PAsK5WdcG/s1600/1499859402421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1206" data-original-width="1600" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOFGvj6xzKJgvO9wEvIV2RJQuXJB7T57KNNs2nQsTOmFAW69P57pTkTTKs0o2P1FcUnBrtd1RBL7O8rR30FA3D32elqqwrxtoeJP4s2NzSfGKMNWD7r1gFiQhvoS-p8_vOII5PAsK5WdcG/s320/1499859402421.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those are the lines you will sew along. It takes a little bit of fiddling to line up each corner with the sewing machine. Take your time! It's like magic when it works</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Keeping the side seam pinched to the base crease sew along the line you drew for both sides.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4acKr5owfT4_AyNwRvhLQSl4EhoWyJqrFNmgWbf0O3KIjrjK_wFeFMeEBCuppvvNh0mkRzDxF8e23tE3Jj31MV1l7EVKC4gMTWZOvc7WgWiVZ4yQ6hLDUIc9py7sia6j-JN-fcsmcqWWq/s1600/1499859462308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4acKr5owfT4_AyNwRvhLQSl4EhoWyJqrFNmgWbf0O3KIjrjK_wFeFMeEBCuppvvNh0mkRzDxF8e23tE3Jj31MV1l7EVKC4gMTWZOvc7WgWiVZ4yQ6hLDUIc9py7sia6j-JN-fcsmcqWWq/s320/1499859462308.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It can stand up all by itself!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Trim the corners off.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpB3CYY7DsK7MonyJ8Qv67zPWEkPF1CnR32y_gOTY9NyBgnVUCedsTNyDxFWQbSwoZt-jnKpkFdAC3iyeMj6sLvQ7rXpCnQ5izCmsPr9C3pkGqXtTZgev7FXWGMerjjhwPbY15L0bvK3o/s1600/1499859516027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1193" data-original-width="1600" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpB3CYY7DsK7MonyJ8Qv67zPWEkPF1CnR32y_gOTY9NyBgnVUCedsTNyDxFWQbSwoZt-jnKpkFdAC3iyeMj6sLvQ7rXpCnQ5izCmsPr9C3pkGqXtTZgev7FXWGMerjjhwPbY15L0bvK3o/s320/1499859516027.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Voila! A base to hold the cup in place<br />
<br />
<b>Step 7:</b><br />
Turn the bag right side out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhad9QC8hQR7Dq8us9GuFeQcVR6rfoEoyUFpcRV96Dlc1HwI4zTzKSzf077kbYSB2P3zjAQUnWnBe3xLd7Xd5tcq6xeFHTLb96Occmgc5Lpk-e9Jy9r_oSpV2vsvtJ1pZtxA0FUaZFcNT8X/s1600/1499859570925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1029" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhad9QC8hQR7Dq8us9GuFeQcVR6rfoEoyUFpcRV96Dlc1HwI4zTzKSzf077kbYSB2P3zjAQUnWnBe3xLd7Xd5tcq6xeFHTLb96Occmgc5Lpk-e9Jy9r_oSpV2vsvtJ1pZtxA0FUaZFcNT8X/s320/1499859570925.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Pop in your favourite travel mug.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRInlBn__XZqAp49LlKa52qoBnmmgngDaUAW6WxrNfr-pk3AYC3Z3YYz6iU_aNVUphE7jvLkJipgwYEGufT2xmHS8mLVVx_j1Vk5ezbzJXoDsi1BBoTAkCDUbqowObYQAvnU9J5cOc82Kg/s1600/1499859660643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1438" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRInlBn__XZqAp49LlKa52qoBnmmgngDaUAW6WxrNfr-pk3AYC3Z3YYz6iU_aNVUphE7jvLkJipgwYEGufT2xmHS8mLVVx_j1Vk5ezbzJXoDsi1BBoTAkCDUbqowObYQAvnU9J5cOc82Kg/s320/1499859660643.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Loop the elastic around to close it, and there you are.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYt90ZLJPKeQ2l36s0yNyo2wtDwN8eP6tPlw676b_F5evp2NeVHo9ExDIpPaXpdQiFmHtljf7LW_VJZLuGYYEIzL2jYZ_D0m0i0itnLafAHMK02BTek7fJ6Zt4g8DbPDHIfDswADEgCWxs/s1600/1499859821801+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1205" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYt90ZLJPKeQ2l36s0yNyo2wtDwN8eP6tPlw676b_F5evp2NeVHo9ExDIpPaXpdQiFmHtljf7LW_VJZLuGYYEIzL2jYZ_D0m0i0itnLafAHMK02BTek7fJ6Zt4g8DbPDHIfDswADEgCWxs/s320/1499859821801+%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Step 8:</b><br />
Don't forget to take it with you!<br />
<br />
And don't forget to take the sticky tape off your presser foot, or it will mess with other sewing projects you do!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Alternative </b><b>Method</b><br />
If you don't like the exposed seams on the inside, you could alter the process by cutting<br />
four 8 x 22.5 inch strips of the laminate fabric, and two 8 x 11.5 inch fleece linings.<br />
<br />
Or, you could cut two 8 x 22.5 inch strips of the laminate, and two 8 x 11.5 flannelette or fleece linings (which would absorb any drips, but not be quite so easy to clean)<br />
<br />
Follow a similar process, starting with sandwiching the elastic between short ends of 2 of the laminated pieces along with a piece of fleece.<br />
<br />
Repeat (sans elastic) for the other laminate & fleece.<br />
<br />
While the laminate still has right sides facing (i.e. wrong sides facing out) stitch down the long sides of both sandwiches (one with elastic, one without).<br />
<br />
Turn right way out.<br />
<br />
Join at the short edge (that has no elastic) - that way only your base will have a raw edge. (You'll need the magic tape from this step)<br />
<br />
Follow the rest of the process from Step 6.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-50093721807393589772017-05-13T16:55:00.005+10:002017-05-20T11:32:17.225+10:00The Right Stuff!*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4uCog_pwboB1bZadKk_L6h1wWwr7AUYbbyS6Mu_LmiJtF_t9KfjOP67Xyktnfb3F_D1Ws58HTZyNNbalzDSOlZULFT7IBIBzlFTiE9PKMk-Um88EimFIyvoMT6HoXsoDfh2Vr7o8-GkJ/s1600/midnight+glimmers+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4uCog_pwboB1bZadKk_L6h1wWwr7AUYbbyS6Mu_LmiJtF_t9KfjOP67Xyktnfb3F_D1Ws58HTZyNNbalzDSOlZULFT7IBIBzlFTiE9PKMk-Um88EimFIyvoMT6HoXsoDfh2Vr7o8-GkJ/s400/midnight+glimmers+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I wanted to share with you this beautiful shawl designed by Meg Gadsbey (who I had the privilege of meeting at the Show recently, and she is as beautiful as her designs!): <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/midnight-in-sydney" target="_blank">Midnight in Sydney</a><br />
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI4oHkNnt3vmiVge70C3lUJF24TNqfHhWL5gSex30TbOEAWU65sXx1cdo4g2qpbSaAaj4QCnk6BsK0DZVl5ULBueMgqM-6W5Kl9B_DVy_bXduntPJ9Wuo2RzYK4T9Pu66Vs1oIcgPXubS4/s1600/midnight+glimmers+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI4oHkNnt3vmiVge70C3lUJF24TNqfHhWL5gSex30TbOEAWU65sXx1cdo4g2qpbSaAaj4QCnk6BsK0DZVl5ULBueMgqM-6W5Kl9B_DVy_bXduntPJ9Wuo2RzYK4T9Pu66Vs1oIcgPXubS4/s320/midnight+glimmers+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My version: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lulubelle77/midnight-in-sydney-2" target="_blank">Midnight Ocean Glimmers </a>shawl</div>
<br />
I also wanted to share the process I went through to knit it, because I learned such a lot about having another go, and about having the right tools for the task with this project.<br />
<br />
I have been reflecting recently that I really love how the knitting podcasters I listen to share their mistakes and the way they need to re-do things. Because then I know that mistakes and re-doing is perfectly normal, even for really experienced knitters. <br />
<br />
I'm far less experienced, so it really helps me take it in my stride and understand it as a learning process.<br />
<br />
Recently the <a href="http://www.knitmoregirlspodcast.com/" target="_blank">Knitmore Girls</a> had an interesting discussion about having the right tools for the project, and how much difference that can make. I *think* it was episode 426.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7377RhiTlrJrnRbNPtgsMrhVdf25h9vAVryDdnPCDSgjuHiiSiT5iQuiSr56IxGA_hCXUYUzQnj015jM8SBKMdadieJkZd2BgmD5F9dZSpImQY9g3XyWeaVAxUM60Q-UMug4rR7XIefwH/s1600/midnight+glimmers+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7377RhiTlrJrnRbNPtgsMrhVdf25h9vAVryDdnPCDSgjuHiiSiT5iQuiSr56IxGA_hCXUYUzQnj015jM8SBKMdadieJkZd2BgmD5F9dZSpImQY9g3XyWeaVAxUM60Q-UMug4rR7XIefwH/s320/midnight+glimmers+4.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<br />
I attempted and gave up this pattern last year.<br />
<br />
I could not seem to master it.<br />
<br />
This year, I had the chance to test knit the pattern because Meg has re-designed the layout. I wa.s ready to give it another go<br />
<br />
I love the new layout. Meg's patterns are always clear and easy to follow, but this version is even better than the first. All of the pattern instructions are on one page, including any of the abbreviations. <br />
The chart also has the chart codes on the same page, right next to the chart.<br />
<br />
I'm not a confident chart knitter, but I am steadily becoming converted - I love working from visual cues that mean I don't have to wade through lots of words to find where I'm up to!<br />
<br />
If you haven't tried knitting from a chart (instead of reading the instructions) this would be a great pattern to start with!<br />
<br />
This time, I knit the pattern in a miraculously short time! Just a few weeks (for me, that's miraculous).<br />
<br />
I had such a lovely time knitting it, and realised a few things that had made the project so much easier. I wanted to share them with you in case it helps you in your knitting adventures.<br />
<br />
The pattern is really not that tricky, however, it does have a fiddly knit-4-together manoeuvre that takes a bit of patience.<br />
<br />
<b>Yarn</b><br />
Now the first time I tried this, I was using a completely different <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/hellomellohandspun?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">yarn</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrmAzfS8mOHh9gEZ4vexkKdk300TJlxkxcgb3_0qgUA6j5G2senks6SEZoTD2UJTiP8osBOU6_v21Vi_er0BZD7ImbZsfFsQ7rTUjZS2QvQ_3Lrw-RSrRfM6Z5yyl-FjhvmIm1FJvURKo/s1600/IMG_20160814_144838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrmAzfS8mOHh9gEZ4vexkKdk300TJlxkxcgb3_0qgUA6j5G2senks6SEZoTD2UJTiP8osBOU6_v21Vi_er0BZD7ImbZsfFsQ7rTUjZS2QvQ_3Lrw-RSrRfM6Z5yyl-FjhvmIm1FJvURKo/s200/IMG_20160814_144838.jpg" width="200" /></a>It is a beautiful yarn but it has now told me that it never wanted to be a shawl in the first place. It really wants to be socks. <br />
<br />
How do I know that?<br />
<br />
It's quite a tough yarn. I've tried to knit it into a couple of different shawls now, with no success (probably not the yarn's fault really...perhaps more to do with limited concentration...). Every time I've ripped it out, the yarn has bounced back, sturdy and strong! Impressive really.<br />
<br />
It's a merino / nylon blend. The Nylon means that the yarn will wear well for socks - no holes!<br />
<br />
But not the best for this pattern. This pattern really needed a yarn that had a bit of give in it.<br />
<br />
When I tried again with the Dingo Dyeworks it was a totally different experience. I used <a href="https://www.dingodyeworks.com.au/collections/fair-dinkum" target="_blank">Fair Dinkum</a> in Mandalay, which is 100% Merino.<br />
<br />
So when I was trying to get the needle into those 4 stitches at once, there was enough give in it for the stitches to loosen up while I created the stitch<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8dwJRa5gtCtszEiZoj0wpfPEqQWvZpPSSLUTYP-DAXjfpJQ9YNg5TMmuRo94n9eqQxTdaaNrd6T2Hu58n9TgIOhK8QmuPnzuDF-xK1Wz89E4IjJaYF_0l3bFsBerEEgyLUKWb07MfUpo/s1600/midnight+glimmers+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8dwJRa5gtCtszEiZoj0wpfPEqQWvZpPSSLUTYP-DAXjfpJQ9YNg5TMmuRo94n9eqQxTdaaNrd6T2Hu58n9TgIOhK8QmuPnzuDF-xK1Wz89E4IjJaYF_0l3bFsBerEEgyLUKWb07MfUpo/s320/midnight+glimmers+6.jpg" width="190" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVypzoXxalAp3tFJwMsDUvbQyJwm5xzz2S3lMsyzFNoYoR4JW-ppb57WxxJIzcLT2-UqsDUi8jKYnbwVCFY30bhRROL04FpxxoWNu5C_yaQibaU5GXJKqoDY7ntfoNyZEmp4LUK_BH7pD/s1600/midnight+glimmers+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVypzoXxalAp3tFJwMsDUvbQyJwm5xzz2S3lMsyzFNoYoR4JW-ppb57WxxJIzcLT2-UqsDUi8jKYnbwVCFY30bhRROL04FpxxoWNu5C_yaQibaU5GXJKqoDY7ntfoNyZEmp4LUK_BH7pD/s320/midnight+glimmers+5.jpg" width="213" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Needles</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLmptn-BXsHDJbIRsCw9Sm-XO6NIh3vva7HTPnfqgcDPNuRNhIpn8_Hi7wFUkN5x0tfeWPW54M9mgKqmQVcH5l5wB1AfUD2qy8tWN2FugHa-mY0tintmk_lDTC3ApBEU2ZoNBoxSLawnt/s1600/IMG_20170505_074734_554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLmptn-BXsHDJbIRsCw9Sm-XO6NIh3vva7HTPnfqgcDPNuRNhIpn8_Hi7wFUkN5x0tfeWPW54M9mgKqmQVcH5l5wB1AfUD2qy8tWN2FugHa-mY0tintmk_lDTC3ApBEU2ZoNBoxSLawnt/s320/IMG_20170505_074734_554.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Last year I used my beloved Symfonie Knit Pro needles. I just love knitting with these - they are bamboo so they are so nice to work with. They have a good tip for most projects and they are pretty too! <br />
<br />
They simply don't compare to the needles you can get a Spotlight (which I just can't bear to use now...) and they cost a similar amount.<br />
<br />
But I think that the needle just wasn't sharp enough to get through the 4 stitches.<br />
<br />
This year I was using my Karbonz carbon fibre needles - they have a metal tip, and they are a little sharper than the Symfonie. It wasn't a deliberate choice, they were just the needles I could find at the time!<br />
<br />
<br />
I did order some finer tip Chia goo lace needles but they didn't arrive until after I'd finished the project. They may have helped more, but I suspect that the very fine tip may have resulted in my splitting the yarn more (I was already doing it a bit!). They came from <a href="https://www.yayforyarn.com.au/" target="_blank">Yay for Yarn </a>which has cheap shipping on needles!<br />
<br />
I get most of my needles from <a href="http://www.tijuana-alpacas.com.au/tijuana_alpacas_wool_shop_is_loc.htm" target="_blank">Tijuana Alpacas - </a>they also have a great Ebay store. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPolVo3V7ZOMtb0Pb-b-l5aOE5QWJO2cK3GEnux8nKuAAphH928mtpcGDN_tfpAYJJW2axjopm1fq7boYkwUsTrI68eHMAgTKglTwTNyJpu2ud5C1Is4RxWHrff-91OTa56T_t5qjCxEQK/s1600/midnight+glimmers+blocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPolVo3V7ZOMtb0Pb-b-l5aOE5QWJO2cK3GEnux8nKuAAphH928mtpcGDN_tfpAYJJW2axjopm1fq7boYkwUsTrI68eHMAgTKglTwTNyJpu2ud5C1Is4RxWHrff-91OTa56T_t5qjCxEQK/s320/midnight+glimmers+blocking.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Blocking out the lace - it's like Magic!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNs35QzZ6ujlb5vyHdfxloNCLWSKBxs7tLOpR_2AUieUdQA_MFkqs2i2GKpCDo9l1V9CCqeQ2taXRnPGLFmtquuiJtC3Wd0fp4O9bTN5PB02IEH091f2apl8Iw9Y8mWscHqlb7DFn5jGIH/s1600/DSC_0483+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNs35QzZ6ujlb5vyHdfxloNCLWSKBxs7tLOpR_2AUieUdQA_MFkqs2i2GKpCDo9l1V9CCqeQ2taXRnPGLFmtquuiJtC3Wd0fp4O9bTN5PB02IEH091f2apl8Iw9Y8mWscHqlb7DFn5jGIH/s320/DSC_0483+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Stitch Markers & Knit Tink</b><br />
Did I mention my limited concentration abilities? Knitting is my down time, and usually happens when I'm sitting on the couch, watching TV. I may or may not also be sipping wine. I'm not telling. Either way, I'm usually shattered, and not so great at keeping track of things. <br />
So, I made sure I put stitch markers in between each lace repeat - that's the set of stitches that is going to make once section of lace. Every lace pattern is different. <br />
It meant that each time I came to a stitch marker I knew it was time to start the lace stitches again.<br />
Because I'm still learning how to 'read' my more complex knitting, it meant I didn't have to keep trying to figure out where I was up to.<br />
It also meant that I could 'fudge' an error - by finding a way to get back to the correct number of stitches (yes, I'm all for cheating! I know I did this a few times, but even I can't find where I did it). That way a mistake in one section didn't throw out the whole row of lace.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfTA8jtu_D6JwfqHMSvqsQF7_veHNumTKSgBbPTJ3thWVu639KPYfpBTAnkpQhr53bIJRe9rdb3KNf2tqpTRkbG31zdXREeMoiy7WSDtW06EXqNZf6l-rWm1KHTNbvFaNI1Kmd7q8T1UT/s1600/IMG_20170506_211119_216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfTA8jtu_D6JwfqHMSvqsQF7_veHNumTKSgBbPTJ3thWVu639KPYfpBTAnkpQhr53bIJRe9rdb3KNf2tqpTRkbG31zdXREeMoiy7WSDtW06EXqNZf6l-rWm1KHTNbvFaNI1Kmd7q8T1UT/s320/IMG_20170506_211119_216.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In all my projects I use a row counter to keep track of where I'm up to in a pattern. The one I use at the moment is an app called "<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.warrencollective.knittink&hl=en" target="_blank">Knit Tink</a>" - I'm using the free version. I can set up 3 different patterns, enter the number of rows in a section and how many times the section repeats. Then I just tap the app each time I finish a row. There's lots of apps available. I quite like this one.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8GdX3UN725_PCHtWEY6PUCgiOXIbaj1uQLPYXoVJ18-sHMbn2FMMiyJodiiaWASi2DK-xW-5PF7x2X0A8R1dPtkVO24row3HFLbq9thc0cDppyCgtdoyqYGSWr8FXr-hDmgRG1JFXYHf9/s1600/midnight+ocean+glimmers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8GdX3UN725_PCHtWEY6PUCgiOXIbaj1uQLPYXoVJ18-sHMbn2FMMiyJodiiaWASi2DK-xW-5PF7x2X0A8R1dPtkVO24row3HFLbq9thc0cDppyCgtdoyqYGSWr8FXr-hDmgRG1JFXYHf9/s400/midnight+ocean+glimmers.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
* there may or may not be a dreadful 80s song that had this name... I'm not saying I ever listened to it though<br />
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-77315731656585093962017-04-29T12:37:00.000+10:002017-05-13T15:50:10.143+10:00Baking Adventures Continue: Persian Love CakeEaster Sunday lunch required a special meal, which of course means a special dessert (first things first!).<br />
<br />
It was time to resurrect the <a href="https://sewknitcrap.blogspot.com.au/2016/04/special-delivery-adventures-in-baking.html" target="_blank">baking adventures</a> (no Easter puns intended)...<br />
<br />
I thought it would be good if we avoided Chocolate. <br />
<br />
there being an abundance of it in stock for the season...<br />
<br />
Please note, I don't generally recommend avoiding chocolate. That would be rash.<br />
<br />
So what that in mind, I perused my <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Special_Delivery.html?id=lsgnCgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=kp_read_button&redir_esc=y&hl=en#v=onepage&q&f=false" target="_blank">favourite baking book, </a>and discovered Annabel's Persian Love Cake, which I then proceeded to Thermify just a little (only in the interests of saving labour on my part).<br />
<br />
If you haven't got it already, you should get it, it's that good!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B011JVD1IQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B011JVD1IQ&linkCode=as2&tag=sewknitcrap-20&linkId=54d1bf638bf8a38597e9cbd039b3cd84" nbsp="" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=B011JVD1IQ&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL110_&tag=sewknitcrap-20" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011JVD1IQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B011JVD1IQ&linkCode=as2&tag=sewknitcrap-20&linkId=09345eb34783995dad6c2a54fb849fc1" target="_blank">Special Delivery: Favourite recipes to make and take</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sewknitcrap-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B011JVD1IQ" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sewknitcrap-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B011JVD1IQ" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<br />
<i>Look away now if you have a nut allergy</i><br />
<br />
I brewed my obligatory baking-cup-of-tea<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnulfyhiE8MtFygkd6QbGfvCqpxojrBtt_7ZM0tzNlJ8nebLUSHBcfp38Odfp7xzQ5Nsij4UIYHxObqi03nHxYQNs4m1HiQcYsjHEUwTZl5GoZ_kuEeCraTOQtDhAo3Pq2SS9k4RRvn7f/s1600/2+cup+of+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnulfyhiE8MtFygkd6QbGfvCqpxojrBtt_7ZM0tzNlJ8nebLUSHBcfp38Odfp7xzQ5Nsij4UIYHxObqi03nHxYQNs4m1HiQcYsjHEUwTZl5GoZ_kuEeCraTOQtDhAo3Pq2SS9k4RRvn7f/s320/2+cup+of+tea.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
collected ingredients<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGlx14qLgCjmmIIGPFBEfdjTApdaq7S4UybkaKVfXauytvyZ_K8Sx4Y4HsMSZEfwX-kR4_NkLen8JLeLwVGY_26zs9hhx44T-WWCyPoN0qfh9lJD28Pps-Gq5Y4ohEyqD3uZV9rV4kfmoL/s1600/4+ingred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGlx14qLgCjmmIIGPFBEfdjTApdaq7S4UybkaKVfXauytvyZ_K8Sx4Y4HsMSZEfwX-kR4_NkLen8JLeLwVGY_26zs9hhx44T-WWCyPoN0qfh9lJD28Pps-Gq5Y4ohEyqD3uZV9rV4kfmoL/s320/4+ingred.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
milled some almonds according to Thermomix directions.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7k66ilABx4485o_ojCYWsnPoD3Pleayv26jQ0Mxnu3OUVAphfT4Nfvcs6S8WSLTHCecJJjAIj7y9cnUIJZdspXBNepL6hU4C6KzjeYrDuAW-SXES6BZnN5csMYUBx2Ak3BtUrHnUt8QB/s1600/1+almond+meal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7k66ilABx4485o_ojCYWsnPoD3Pleayv26jQ0Mxnu3OUVAphfT4Nfvcs6S8WSLTHCecJJjAIj7y9cnUIJZdspXBNepL6hU4C6KzjeYrDuAW-SXES6BZnN5csMYUBx2Ak3BtUrHnUt8QB/s320/1+almond+meal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
then proceeded with the recipe<br />
<br />
To blend the crumb (of almond meal, sugar and butter):<br />
Turbo 2 seconds 3 times.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRVeW45KLW87PoaWDIBia1PebUTSSfELsq01VsRr3fvhHsi5FGAzxTCsc7rRXnwR_qIrZ5KRO3pMqn8UA_GZTW92yAeTip1h40xoxkVMSyNF8YSBh9gt_Q5He4mWu9gcWP-uZW2Queguw/s1600/3+pulverised.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRVeW45KLW87PoaWDIBia1PebUTSSfELsq01VsRr3fvhHsi5FGAzxTCsc7rRXnwR_qIrZ5KRO3pMqn8UA_GZTW92yAeTip1h40xoxkVMSyNF8YSBh9gt_Q5He4mWu9gcWP-uZW2Queguw/s320/3+pulverised.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What could possibly be wrong with almond, sugar and butter?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorUSOh_bfd8q7XwDQiZacVCvAXdti7Qlo15Vb0LcwD6VLOr1Ezydt6C3eUCF3-JD5dXWDAl8YvWZQa5mAdh9ydmquoff9ZcCxaF6FGvQ_MXiGSLbUrgZyYwCzXuMHEfoE9RI_Mof_wcI-/s1600/5+base.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorUSOh_bfd8q7XwDQiZacVCvAXdti7Qlo15Vb0LcwD6VLOr1Ezydt6C3eUCF3-JD5dXWDAl8YvWZQa5mAdh9ydmquoff9ZcCxaF6FGvQ_MXiGSLbUrgZyYwCzXuMHEfoE9RI_Mof_wcI-/s320/5+base.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crumb base worked beautifully</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To combine the rest of the ingredients:<br />
4 seconds, speed 5, then a 2 sec Turbo. <br />
I find the Turbo good for really moving ingredients around, especially when some seem to be sitting on top.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANR2wNpXRXVpKs8zr_d7VrdCkGHXy8MJsgcKmoOfW2PhXabo1AC2OZmO0WU0hxqOIkxCK45z3QnXWZCMgdND99yxibNonbkMm2InDPU9BlQExpNJx8mQITU8nWBavFSLqluWAJxQCffjs/s1600/6+nutmeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgANR2wNpXRXVpKs8zr_d7VrdCkGHXy8MJsgcKmoOfW2PhXabo1AC2OZmO0WU0hxqOIkxCK45z3QnXWZCMgdND99yxibNonbkMm2InDPU9BlQExpNJx8mQITU8nWBavFSLqluWAJxQCffjs/s200/6+nutmeg.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh nutmeg - a surprising amount!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZmOpNCAxsk1Z7p-opW6nd9b9SS67svX3ZV70bVHFp2zmkuss6azAM181TV0nazVO-dCi412Ouiv-pBzie9s83R0YADEnEGq4B9TT-QQ9ZswCrjZX3c19MyA2sSNIhyphenhyphen3xAgnxd68to8qG/s1600/7+pistachios.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZmOpNCAxsk1Z7p-opW6nd9b9SS67svX3ZV70bVHFp2zmkuss6azAM181TV0nazVO-dCi412Ouiv-pBzie9s83R0YADEnEGq4B9TT-QQ9ZswCrjZX3c19MyA2sSNIhyphenhyphen3xAgnxd68to8qG/s320/7+pistachios.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Everything else was done according to instructions.<br />
<br />
The cake turned out beautifully.<br />
<br />
The only issues were entirely mine - the texture was a little soggy. But that was because I used the end of a tub of yoghurt - it contained a lot of whey Don't do as I did!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUga3j0n8Pxb2vvSISWu_lhtHNM8MMS_8uPRqT_y348VLpaD3RxRbiY1hB2S8IlXNhWQS3YDTb_mrsbxiSOThXfKUC8ohKv_DEuqMSb0wJT0LHjW1Q1pxeV1KzdJxHNODnfkFdmS8wiazb/s1600/8+heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUga3j0n8Pxb2vvSISWu_lhtHNM8MMS_8uPRqT_y348VLpaD3RxRbiY1hB2S8IlXNhWQS3YDTb_mrsbxiSOThXfKUC8ohKv_DEuqMSb0wJT0LHjW1Q1pxeV1KzdJxHNODnfkFdmS8wiazb/s320/8+heart.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm not usually good at decorating, but I managed to pull off a heart in the centre. <br />
Can you see it?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The nutmeg gave the most delightful fragrant tang and depth of flavour. <br />
<br />
Annabel recommends that the addition of lemon zest is optional, but I would heartily recommend its inclusion. <br />
<br />
It provides a contrast to the sweetness of the cake. I didn't show you the mountain of sugars in it!<br />
<br />
Serving with greek yoghurt and segments of orange balanced the flavours beautifully. <br />
<br />
Divine. <br />
<br />
I'll be cooking this one again - it's a Keeper!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2986X4qRhyphenhyphenDG74FavJUG9Ez-jqj7W9nTDlHnFuHZsDuYFs-lJtT6_jEWaf7Kq0pj-pZrHLfWVPED7z4jZWxA-T_iwi7nupdDYB_o8_eba-Rfe3nAEtF2ENWHmIlX0lLdINCp_Rxw1Sy1z/s1600/9+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2986X4qRhyphenhyphenDG74FavJUG9Ez-jqj7W9nTDlHnFuHZsDuYFs-lJtT6_jEWaf7Kq0pj-pZrHLfWVPED7z4jZWxA-T_iwi7nupdDYB_o8_eba-Rfe3nAEtF2ENWHmIlX0lLdINCp_Rxw1Sy1z/s320/9+cake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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* the link to purchasing the book is an Amazon Associate link. If you purchase via the link, I'll get a small commission</div>
Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-15663068246227504472017-04-28T19:53:00.002+10:002017-04-29T11:38:29.808+10:00gratitude & tears<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvjoLPozkoaz4VVTaOhXYc97epu5eZCGZ1f6o3PnqVoqloh0_vRAK7m6d-3rvcA-kGmAzmGaYKlgffnyg_emCx5DoEN__O_WcSWqMe3n7CM3pukJ4nldXxIkG5DjSbxS66yD-Z7pt37Nl/s1600/4+high+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvjoLPozkoaz4VVTaOhXYc97epu5eZCGZ1f6o3PnqVoqloh0_vRAK7m6d-3rvcA-kGmAzmGaYKlgffnyg_emCx5DoEN__O_WcSWqMe3n7CM3pukJ4nldXxIkG5DjSbxS66yD-Z7pt37Nl/s320/4+high+tea.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
A year ago, I booked high tea. <br />
<br />
At my favourite place. <br />
<br />
With favourite people. <br />
<br />
To celebrate my birthday.<br />
<br />
It was late for my birthday, but fell on my mum's birthday a week or so later.<br />
<br />
Another reason to celebrate.<br />
<br />
It also fell on a weekend of deluge and flash flooding.<br />
<br />
My friends mostly, wisely, pulled out. They made the right choice. The conditions were too risky.<br />
<br />
Except for one dear friend, ready for adventure, determined in her love.<br />
<br />
I felt compelled to go though.<br />
<br />
You see, my mum.<br />
<br />
It was her birthday.<br />
<br />
She probably didn't know<br />
<br />
She was in the final awful stages of Dementia. <br />
<br />
That stole her away from us, little by little, far too fast.<br />
<br />
I was convinced<br />
<br />
that I had to see her.<br />
<br />
I was convinced<br />
<br />
that Death must come knocking, when birthdays draw near.<br />
<br />
that the cells in her body knew that the day had come<br />
<br />
I was convinced<br />
<br />
that her fragile grip on life would loosen.<br />
<br />
That, having made the next milestone, she would finally let go.<br />
<br />
I had to see her.<br />
<br />
To give her my love.<br />
<br />
So that I didn't miss 'goodbye'<br />
<br />
I'm so glad I did.<br />
<div>
<br />
**********<br />
<br />
we were unwise<br />
<br />
in the deluge<br />
<br />
in the floods<br />
<br />
we were lucky<br />
<br />
we made it through<br />
<br />
never again<br />
<br /></div>
**********<br />
<br />
She lingered for another month.<br />
<br />
And then her body failed<br />
<br />
Suffering enough<br />
<br />
we told her she could leave us<br />
<br />
we would care for her son<br />
<br />
she was loved<br />
<br />
*****************<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f2w3KXiTAj8pdDIq6dMQUxrtCr3qxSbDGlgDCgXv2LxquHwm8aUTPw2-l9sjmkc2Z3fIEFpwlkQJUjDpXwfw0if1wKb1Th6su2ZqUJgJH2RNYy4uA6EHgjJqNXV23_YTT-mVXD7ZboHY/s1600/3+lavender+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f2w3KXiTAj8pdDIq6dMQUxrtCr3qxSbDGlgDCgXv2LxquHwm8aUTPw2-l9sjmkc2Z3fIEFpwlkQJUjDpXwfw0if1wKb1Th6su2ZqUJgJH2RNYy4uA6EHgjJqNXV23_YTT-mVXD7ZboHY/s320/3+lavender+flowers.jpg" width="256" /></a><br />
<br />
those memories washed over me as I drove today<br />
<br />
confronting me on the road to high tea<br />
<br />
and God was kind<br />
<br />
different seats, different views, new memories<br />
<br />
with another precious friend<br />
<br />
ready for adventure, determined in her love<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f2w3KXiTAj8pdDIq6dMQUxrtCr3qxSbDGlgDCgXv2LxquHwm8aUTPw2-l9sjmkc2Z3fIEFpwlkQJUjDpXwfw0if1wKb1Th6su2ZqUJgJH2RNYy4uA6EHgjJqNXV23_YTT-mVXD7ZboHY/s1600/3+lavender+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
flowers for love<br />
<br />
lavender tones to comfort<br />
<br />
<br />
****************<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqJ5fvQDJbxzh-dT494MXMu5bmfQNxojoKhxBounbeoTRS5DapC4aFPGUyfbCe8AQZu2_2J1a0LBgUkGOKOpIgXGUpIcc2Me6H-WA-gOdWkB6l0srSFkY92dkGAwDXCv4PUy1tsthokx4/s1600/5+posy+of+love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqJ5fvQDJbxzh-dT494MXMu5bmfQNxojoKhxBounbeoTRS5DapC4aFPGUyfbCe8AQZu2_2J1a0LBgUkGOKOpIgXGUpIcc2Me6H-WA-gOdWkB6l0srSFkY92dkGAwDXCv4PUy1tsthokx4/s320/5+posy+of+love.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
a posy<br />
<br />
gentle, old fashioned roses, in dusky hues<br />
<br />
a token of love<br />
<br />
for one whom I love<br />
<br />
so dearly missed<br />
<br />
longings for better things<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*********************<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
blessings today, as well as the tears<br />
<br />
cosy hand-knit socks. joy<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPdoV3KEmjEm7V-OUJ4k2D_8_IQTHt_Q5q624oW3rWY87GbxZvvbep19GeJSD3O1V_jZIzYMWCU4sXUcR0FJYLpAoMXVIc8xl-zdo0if7zukTyvkT6p03_hgynPWQhsgNlCsioPeu5bcQ/s1600/2+cosy+socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPdoV3KEmjEm7V-OUJ4k2D_8_IQTHt_Q5q624oW3rWY87GbxZvvbep19GeJSD3O1V_jZIzYMWCU4sXUcR0FJYLpAoMXVIc8xl-zdo0if7zukTyvkT6p03_hgynPWQhsgNlCsioPeu5bcQ/s200/2+cosy+socks.jpg" width="199" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
friends who hear. healing<br />
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wheaten bloom glowing on green hills<br />
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chill & autumn leaves afire<br />
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shawl for cosy hug of warmth<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHq0zy5Cxvqh2SadKgY1g7MNUh9DaQl7PqUl8Ucbz0_R7rEZc1NH-L-aEjvWQt6mLSgwkMAxQ9t-wlNMEljUczEtqLK7Pnaf5LcGcYWijorsKWSrzYUUNLH5gr1L2YzfWF1LEMRaVA0iEZ/s1600/1+shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHq0zy5Cxvqh2SadKgY1g7MNUh9DaQl7PqUl8Ucbz0_R7rEZc1NH-L-aEjvWQt6mLSgwkMAxQ9t-wlNMEljUczEtqLK7Pnaf5LcGcYWijorsKWSrzYUUNLH5gr1L2YzfWF1LEMRaVA0iEZ/s200/1+shawl.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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an embrace filled with understanding<br />
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rose-hued dusk<br />
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sliver of silver crescent moon<br />
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my small boy finds me to say 'i love you'<br />
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****************************<br />
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<a href="http://www.dumbofeather.com/articles/its-ok-to-cry/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplFEdCdjXl7JvlKy_t-7sDmIepuHABk503d0gMxuw9qhD1zoQTsxKEyjpff_3sfT4v1uKl6lhYzneFke6wqlMSYLkSHRaYqQycP4dSYh9wkVG0Ci4Pbez3VdVb8cmyxQ0VTMc8DDnTeEe/s320/It+seems+to+me+that+people+heal+when+they+experience+being+heard.When+someone+you+trust+hears+your+words+for+your+feelings+and+nods+in+understanding%252C+they+show+you+that+they+follow+your+story.+They+get+it..png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-92109332880869438642017-04-17T14:56:00.002+10:002017-04-17T14:56:37.045+10:00Blocking Knitting: Before & AfterI've just recently completed two shawls, both of which have made me Very Happy.<br />
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One is for a friend...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8kxkzcZnVL9LqBWiZDSL9llWXVxr6Lljr8hZxN6WSDW7mT1Pw4AnKWZSPC5TDMd6B0cHkaWQje2wNfL1vTiIrPt0_hjbFJgi4pHuEudwArTBQkCvrpWUt__U3WHLWfjYhLWC2tkZ4ckp/s1600/IMG_3914+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8kxkzcZnVL9LqBWiZDSL9llWXVxr6Lljr8hZxN6WSDW7mT1Pw4AnKWZSPC5TDMd6B0cHkaWQje2wNfL1vTiIrPt0_hjbFJgi4pHuEudwArTBQkCvrpWUt__U3WHLWfjYhLWC2tkZ4ckp/s400/IMG_3914+edit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The blue <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spindrift-shawl" target="_blank">Spindrift Shaw</a>l from Curious Handmade made from a heavenly <a href="https://theaustralianwoolstore.com/" target="_blank">Merino/Silk blend (</a>soft just doesn't describe it). <br />
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If you sign up for the Curious Handmade email, you can even get this pattern for free. She has lots of helpful tips about knitting shawls and lace, in the form of a series of emails to guide you through the process of knitting this shawl.<br />
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It's an excellent place to start if you've not knitted shawls or lace before.<br />
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This was such a lovely knit: simple, quick, gratifying. <br />
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I love the way the lace looks like the foaming of waves on a sandy shore.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8U0iNv-LIQD6mqlqTuL8RUKagA0SSN1qvQqFLHDQghWwMtgtHehG-dETfMpOiHfGralo4ctB3tKRhrpXmYf9qtk7mvc6i8heYnf_R_N6A6NnAUwOO2FRTmClqBF6HTi3kyRLTfX5D_LZe/s1600/IMG_3890+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8U0iNv-LIQD6mqlqTuL8RUKagA0SSN1qvQqFLHDQghWwMtgtHehG-dETfMpOiHfGralo4ctB3tKRhrpXmYf9qtk7mvc6i8heYnf_R_N6A6NnAUwOO2FRTmClqBF6HTi3kyRLTfX5D_LZe/s400/IMG_3890+edit.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">seafoam...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The only issue I have is that the neckline is a little tight. I think this is because silk isn't as giving as wool. Or perhaps it was my tension. It was curling over due to the tension.<br />
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I was pretty aggressive in pulling it out in the blocking, but really, there wasn't much I could do, as there was no give along the edge of the shawl. Still it improved a lot by the finished product!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Xzgm94tyK4GkubphqSWIvbk7HwJ1ITDFava2Hfvb8drB9WMbE66qGDMhFP60_fPvUsinSlA6a-81N0eUfQuv2RvknydbcS-3CLAOAun3bqCfhZToAnQk6tdVHiF3JOWUeosg053M4RAq/s1600/IMG_3902+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Xzgm94tyK4GkubphqSWIvbk7HwJ1ITDFava2Hfvb8drB9WMbE66qGDMhFP60_fPvUsinSlA6a-81N0eUfQuv2RvknydbcS-3CLAOAun3bqCfhZToAnQk6tdVHiF3JOWUeosg053M4RAq/s320/IMG_3902+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">before blocking: looks a little crumpled and uneven</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Doesn't that just look stunning now. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBl9gDrzEr3Mt7BcCqE0FMt1ExLtntTfRp0rlPO5zfYiPUEWIxVIalXLwNMk8-qxtORtnFxQA36xOvC_Isupz7F3ccl-gcm6SUlS1g9K5qdD81ij0ajs4Q1tq1FphpA3IrXaR6jfkS57h9/s1600/IMG_3937+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBl9gDrzEr3Mt7BcCqE0FMt1ExLtntTfRp0rlPO5zfYiPUEWIxVIalXLwNMk8-qxtORtnFxQA36xOvC_Isupz7F3ccl-gcm6SUlS1g9K5qdD81ij0ajs4Q1tq1FphpA3IrXaR6jfkS57h9/s320/IMG_3937+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lace after blocking </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Defined. Open. Lace<br />
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<br />
I also made my daughter the Snowflake Party Shawl by Martina Behm. This is another simple, fast and gratifying knit. Another good beginning shawl. This was also an opportunity for me to experiment with colours and stripes. <br />
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I had some leftover <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/CircusTonicHandmade" target="_blank">CircusTonicHandmade </a>Star Finch yarn, which Princess loves. It wasn't enough for an entire item, so I matched it with <a href="https://www.bendigowoollenmills.com.au/" target="_blank">Bendigo Yarns</a> Luxury 4 ply in Coral. They are a fantastic match. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBeu2K1agODiq7dUmvg8d-Kzu7UHw-F9hJ0uHXDkYEoNJKNi-DepAdwZeUoypLxnjQ-HE1CptMPbto3jYiN72ZWhT5tYR5meIVRbt5MS2uz1Als9pjtfRH7qqItgLNUTYGaTK0-J9NuoQ/s1600/IMG_3876+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBeu2K1agODiq7dUmvg8d-Kzu7UHw-F9hJ0uHXDkYEoNJKNi-DepAdwZeUoypLxnjQ-HE1CptMPbto3jYiN72ZWhT5tYR5meIVRbt5MS2uz1Als9pjtfRH7qqItgLNUTYGaTK0-J9NuoQ/s320/IMG_3876+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before blocking</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As the shawl progressed, I gradually introduced stripes of the Star Finch, and gradually decreased the Coral. You can see the changes in the stripes below. If you want to see the exact formula for how I did it, the details are on my Ravelry Project Page <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lulubelle77/snowflake-party" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzDX_D6nS23lKA_-csgkyE0O_ByaD_AJfULgSF2jKbwDRIS9He0B-d0cSi8Yimxj5cG927z4kF4alNl3IrbV90XY1nv9BVq9Zguu33-hGdym4wphCCvsgo0TkgmLnPVcuuuXSrt_ZYgRW/s1600/IMG_3878+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzDX_D6nS23lKA_-csgkyE0O_ByaD_AJfULgSF2jKbwDRIS9He0B-d0cSi8Yimxj5cG927z4kF4alNl3IrbV90XY1nv9BVq9Zguu33-hGdym4wphCCvsgo0TkgmLnPVcuuuXSrt_ZYgRW/s320/IMG_3878+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I added some extra rows to the end of the shawl to give a border to the lace pattern, and an opportunity to create more fabric in the Star Finch yarn.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGuBhvBK2lBYjaFQ1mAl2GPIDwwVZyoQquOb19G3oLQGfejwSJBmGVB8goq0PGbwiE0grPxj6dy-5BabdvXQlynXcN9g42AteUIU0DKgdfN9ZirqJJJ63PCvbmekAtDaqo7UZZ-EnzkMe/s1600/IMG_3879+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGuBhvBK2lBYjaFQ1mAl2GPIDwwVZyoQquOb19G3oLQGfejwSJBmGVB8goq0PGbwiE0grPxj6dy-5BabdvXQlynXcN9g42AteUIU0DKgdfN9ZirqJJJ63PCvbmekAtDaqo7UZZ-EnzkMe/s320/IMG_3879+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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During knitting, the snowflakes weren't all that defined. <br />
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I blocked this fairly aggressively (that means I stretched it quite a bit) - the shawl seemed to grow a lot in the blocking process!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFavoNFY5G50CSjfxje4qnxBcL1WgLUO_GOOgR8JkDU9mzVEHcooNl5fMHozHSImfrRuIioLZMYPr4dLc1o30R38Y3Arwc1uVnaUrz2-suGcMb0VO3UYuh55SgnyYt8Fdaot3wnEYP-vA/s1600/IMG_3959+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFavoNFY5G50CSjfxje4qnxBcL1WgLUO_GOOgR8JkDU9mzVEHcooNl5fMHozHSImfrRuIioLZMYPr4dLc1o30R38Y3Arwc1uVnaUrz2-suGcMb0VO3UYuh55SgnyYt8Fdaot3wnEYP-vA/s320/IMG_3959+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The result?<br />
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Lovely, clear snowflakes, dancing over the shawl.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8F1pngbodSA4OgIe9oezbMvhG0jJVMye4QQYuV1vby1nqpKUkTkkoSXs-l_kEBuAxAyttBrMQfdp86qeOJuY2X6DyjsORGqsZEMlI58IRwrwI19nf63wK9QTauukMQ2SrYnZO88McqP1S/s1600/IMG_3997+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8F1pngbodSA4OgIe9oezbMvhG0jJVMye4QQYuV1vby1nqpKUkTkkoSXs-l_kEBuAxAyttBrMQfdp86qeOJuY2X6DyjsORGqsZEMlI58IRwrwI19nf63wK9QTauukMQ2SrYnZO88McqP1S/s400/IMG_3997+edit.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKw8-HXxaQY-ub8x2m6nBltC2-_SzmCQnF9j0v5QQc30hledck4KUsDKGIjbugyxHe_7iilCZAsaNRBZXa5lZf58AZwMuMTV0XSWLB6fT8E9l7n1Qh9LXewsGNgwF5DGNxneOAZBy0tRV/s1600/IMG_4012+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKw8-HXxaQY-ub8x2m6nBltC2-_SzmCQnF9j0v5QQc30hledck4KUsDKGIjbugyxHe_7iilCZAsaNRBZXa5lZf58AZwMuMTV0XSWLB6fT8E9l7n1Qh9LXewsGNgwF5DGNxneOAZBy0tRV/s320/IMG_4012+edit.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Happy.<br />
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PS. If anyone has any tips on how to get children to model for you, send them my way!<br />
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PPS. And here's your reward for reading right to the end...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKfBVw-6kD2nCAdNLuecefO6vLDdwf8eWM4-BQjRiRyWLv8K1fBN9qsq5d_cKaE0oCGbVbfuz2s2lpXSheCq_M6RrmvdJ8FPCc8cHTrmhcC90RNanHe1DjcR6sFOQB8VJ9KkaMCM9FQFO/s1600/IMG_3950+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzKfBVw-6kD2nCAdNLuecefO6vLDdwf8eWM4-BQjRiRyWLv8K1fBN9qsq5d_cKaE0oCGbVbfuz2s2lpXSheCq_M6RrmvdJ8FPCc8cHTrmhcC90RNanHe1DjcR6sFOQB8VJ9KkaMCM9FQFO/s200/IMG_3950+edit.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why be normal when you can be, well, weird? Dancing? and Photobombing? Why not!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-17663271299772367012017-02-12T19:00:00.001+11:002017-02-12T19:01:01.500+11:00Chai Frappe Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZJ053hBlAdecHY5vv6Ij0OToVs3HZR1jlEcc4AHq9EhBeO-42FmYaVPpaAT-jSAeZFdKW9-z7LEcl7qZOhqyEsDJCSkn1UNp6a7xmkRm8xofHdMN7oxv0kayFawpcU7LDjPg7VQ0AuRS/s1600/7anise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZJ053hBlAdecHY5vv6Ij0OToVs3HZR1jlEcc4AHq9EhBeO-42FmYaVPpaAT-jSAeZFdKW9-z7LEcl7qZOhqyEsDJCSkn1UNp6a7xmkRm8xofHdMN7oxv0kayFawpcU7LDjPg7VQ0AuRS/s320/7anise.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We are all melting with the heat here in Sydney.<br />
<br />
I think everyone is wondering when summer will end - fiercely hot days are sapping the life out of everyone...<br />
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It makes it quite challenging to enjoy my tea in the usual way.<br />
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I thought a Chai Frappe might just do the trick. <br />
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But I was surprised that when I did a quick search, I couldn't find any recipes for what I wanted online.<br />
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There are plenty using Chai Syrups and Powders, but those generally have loads of sugar and other stuff in them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivO5eqpFNUOEtq0Jeef1nGw-TSD8ERfS0CaKwdmjr9jyGc41ZvDoaF0cKSSapkFTu2qJoeXnp0YuFTxCWL6YXEXEqhToUOQvpul9F0l9U_T35yGBDzpHBmdU0W448jyFrH8qvha1HYsn7x/s1600/5anise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivO5eqpFNUOEtq0Jeef1nGw-TSD8ERfS0CaKwdmjr9jyGc41ZvDoaF0cKSSapkFTu2qJoeXnp0YuFTxCWL6YXEXEqhToUOQvpul9F0l9U_T35yGBDzpHBmdU0W448jyFrH8qvha1HYsn7x/s320/5anise.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I've become a bit of a purist with my Chai, and the typical Chai Latte mixes are all too sweet for me.<br />
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So here's a low sugar, refreshing Chai Frappe recipe for you. It does require a little advance prep, but it's well worth it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxrsqjSC2gCu8TSRBJUik2lpqO_v26pF5PJ6yZ5GwVpvStXJDMyxgEMUCZK3zKOFb_7jgyGG9YcXF-FIRJYH_OtQw5YPC79RKkiuDmeZSKUHj2068n-E1hlNFG9CSRm-FHKGDA18WpecV/s1600/1chai+brew+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxrsqjSC2gCu8TSRBJUik2lpqO_v26pF5PJ6yZ5GwVpvStXJDMyxgEMUCZK3zKOFb_7jgyGG9YcXF-FIRJYH_OtQw5YPC79RKkiuDmeZSKUHj2068n-E1hlNFG9CSRm-FHKGDA18WpecV/s320/1chai+brew+.jpg" width="218" /></a></div>
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Brew up your favourite Chai - tea leaves, tea bags, or even the powders if that's what you love.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8t50GCubTYPOvK0fL2X-5xE42wiVcip1TXIMtzE9VfQBHN2cYhw7dFFv8iOgBrqjkevQUekTS_IyRRViR1Eax-L_HEO1eBQ_FcntqctpJonC6nV5CeSG-5RJoGB7xYy31tK5E2G9_6lwf/s1600/3ice+cubes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8t50GCubTYPOvK0fL2X-5xE42wiVcip1TXIMtzE9VfQBHN2cYhw7dFFv8iOgBrqjkevQUekTS_IyRRViR1Eax-L_HEO1eBQ_FcntqctpJonC6nV5CeSG-5RJoGB7xYy31tK5E2G9_6lwf/s200/3ice+cubes.jpg" width="200" /></a>In this case, I used a lovely Rooibos Chai I was given at Christmas - so it has the added bonus of being caffeine free.<br />
<br />
<br />
Freeze in an ice cube tray.<br />
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<br />
One generous cup of tea fills my ice cube tray nicely.<br />
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Once frozen, place in Thermomix, food processor or use a stick blender.<br />
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Add milk.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32X_r9Cu2HR7HJq4s24mikJAh_4BDIzeKJGOEcr2qSKQn-Q7QrIXHKNCVP1TnWLhCyX1Vq1x6mFY6qOac8j6WTRnkyyZUW4NXdzDfHIl_pHCSkEpg1KV__grD0ktMYYID5XxfwOclqQOR/s1600/2ingred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32X_r9Cu2HR7HJq4s24mikJAh_4BDIzeKJGOEcr2qSKQn-Q7QrIXHKNCVP1TnWLhCyX1Vq1x6mFY6qOac8j6WTRnkyyZUW4NXdzDfHIl_pHCSkEpg1KV__grD0ktMYYID5XxfwOclqQOR/s320/2ingred.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Add honey and / or <a href="https://sewknitcrap.blogspot.com.au/2017/01/i-heart-cinnamon-cinnamon-syrup-recipe.html" target="_blank">Cinnamon syrup</a> (if you have it) to sweeten. The Thermomix Star Anise syrup (from the Basic Cook Book) would work quite well here. Heilala even make a delicious Vanilla Syrup. <br />
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<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGWq6PNX6NK_7k8EhHbhkdZYxCl_pjtc_Hz6L6NR5L52pOkO7hFO1WGjhyi0Jj_lveqFql2_Xy2hMKnNwJheyxvCUo5yuHzziu-tr6zND-18byhEaVRFFZDf6Q8EYLwNyVWUoh3rWbbql/s1600/4cinnamon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGWq6PNX6NK_7k8EhHbhkdZYxCl_pjtc_Hz6L6NR5L52pOkO7hFO1WGjhyi0Jj_lveqFql2_Xy2hMKnNwJheyxvCUo5yuHzziu-tr6zND-18byhEaVRFFZDf6Q8EYLwNyVWUoh3rWbbql/s200/4cinnamon.jpg" width="200" /></a>I used approximately 1 tablespoon - depending on your taste, you might like more, there is no sweetener in the tea. I find this Frappe refreshing because it isn't too sweet, so taste test and adjust accordingly!<br />
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<br />
<br />
Add a dash of vanilla, and a shake of cinnamon.<br />
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<br />
Blitz for 20-30 seconds, on speed 9. until the ice cubes have magically turned into a lovely tea slushy.<br />
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<br />
Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar for a decorative touch.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HW0GrvY_ldXDGSlN42lLr_cFmfEhSyWiG3UWNbQWfXJcYmThZ4nIzZ2Qk2q_qXi63UpY8o3QltkSGG_lobftVw_GVKSmwK8ohDz9RaIimBjiORCucmvaqlLws_4SToJXmEwQ4-0KPv1o/s1600/6frappe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HW0GrvY_ldXDGSlN42lLr_cFmfEhSyWiG3UWNbQWfXJcYmThZ4nIzZ2Qk2q_qXi63UpY8o3QltkSGG_lobftVw_GVKSmwK8ohDz9RaIimBjiORCucmvaqlLws_4SToJXmEwQ4-0KPv1o/s320/6frappe.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Relax somewhere cool and enjoy!<br />
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<br />
What's your favourite cooling brew?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0RG4po50u3xaI27GrC6wx6GvikOguskQ1QHj5mAvYrJJB7kLpjS7t_UJBm_kV2_Rh4J_FtNmQ0jA2KkvRL1YhyphenhyphenPDhhLRG7vAU4_X0f4Tqs42MOHlEoPV51LXh75__4B3Qr2_BrN3umnK/s1600/Chai+Frappe+Recipe+%25282%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO0RG4po50u3xaI27GrC6wx6GvikOguskQ1QHj5mAvYrJJB7kLpjS7t_UJBm_kV2_Rh4J_FtNmQ0jA2KkvRL1YhyphenhyphenPDhhLRG7vAU4_X0f4Tqs42MOHlEoPV51LXh75__4B3Qr2_BrN3umnK/s400/Chai+Frappe+Recipe+%25282%2529.png" width="266" /></a></div>
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-81749034729978683042017-01-28T12:45:00.000+11:002017-01-28T12:45:40.071+11:00Kindergarten: A New JourneyI found myself close to tears, over the ironing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtoNk7wWzANQWAbEGOcFPzHK2H7RC-J2dk5M3gbFlCQr4HQ62A43yD0TtS0vo0SjxWlzdwg7EVyHIegNp_prKyFJ6G1XH2GAABhErPeuZrsT2WYNECQpoSbxWJ1bprJ4SeeRWDNKAofzZs/s1600/1485566853256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtoNk7wWzANQWAbEGOcFPzHK2H7RC-J2dk5M3gbFlCQr4HQ62A43yD0TtS0vo0SjxWlzdwg7EVyHIegNp_prKyFJ6G1XH2GAABhErPeuZrsT2WYNECQpoSbxWJ1bprJ4SeeRWDNKAofzZs/s320/1485566853256.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
While ironing and household chores are wont to reduce us to tears, it wasn't really the ironing's fault in this case.<br />
<br />
It was <b>what </b>I was ironing.<br />
<br />
My precious baby's new school uniform, for him to wear the following day.<br />
<br />
His first day of Kindergarten.<br />
<br />
In that tiny pair of shorts, I could see the journey ahead. <br />
<br />
The years of uniforms that he will wear (and I will iron) as he progresses through to Graduation.<br />
<br />
I could see all of that in that one item, in that one task. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgpRivm4qoFPPeyl3iKQ6xFFic_MWyzbllYHywU6RDdXkHJElB8gbA83Gu5BrP7FXB3FCRtau2l6VBT80VKomq1fWjKgIrAfWrZ2R5Q-akYzJ5WZ9pwNQCnUakovbooADW0jOUvATUQ29/s1600/1485566734186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgpRivm4qoFPPeyl3iKQ6xFFic_MWyzbllYHywU6RDdXkHJElB8gbA83Gu5BrP7FXB3FCRtau2l6VBT80VKomq1fWjKgIrAfWrZ2R5Q-akYzJ5WZ9pwNQCnUakovbooADW0jOUvATUQ29/s320/1485566734186.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shoes... He's never worn them for a whole day in his life!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There was joy and grieving.<br />
<br />
Grieving...<br />
for the end of his babyhood<br />
for the end of my era as a mother-of-babies, a hen and her chicks<br />
for the end of the exclusive universe I've built around my babies - now they explore a bigger world<br />
<br />
Joy...<br />
watching my baby become a boy<br />
knowing he is ready for this next chapter<br />
watching his excitement (and nerves)<br />
<br />
It's not even only about him, my younger one, but also about my precious girl, who also seems to grow apace... She starts Year 4. Year 4. So very grown up. Taller than me soon (hooray! and also... not difficult)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmfyhMJOXADBqrSlpKPr4-8MkQeETkh5LIK59a1CfgdHYx9ILQ2oBme55Fb_RrgQT8sYl5HFmxduL0Cw8o2GCAq60agjSw0AmslfzkDbnOOYBLLMzQfI7W10-ZyPk6-K8dKaMBkFjPzLr/s1600/1485566211790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmfyhMJOXADBqrSlpKPr4-8MkQeETkh5LIK59a1CfgdHYx9ILQ2oBme55Fb_RrgQT8sYl5HFmxduL0Cw8o2GCAq60agjSw0AmslfzkDbnOOYBLLMzQfI7W10-ZyPk6-K8dKaMBkFjPzLr/s320/1485566211790.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They'll never look this good again!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I began my teaching career with Year 4. I had no idea that they were each someone's babies, still. They seemed so mature, so independent. <br />
<br />
And the parents seemed to wear the mantle of parenthood easily, to come as a family package with their children, know what they were about...<br />
<br />
I didn't realise they were still learning too, still figuring out this parenting gig.<br />
<br />
And when I taught Kindergarten (who I loved, by the way, and they loved me), I really didn't grasp how each of those little people that walked through my door, were still just tiny babies.<br />
<br />
I passed a mum sobbing yesterday, as I walked my baby boy to his classroom, and his beautiful teacher.<br />
And I understood.<br />
And, truth be told, I cried too. For her, and for me.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj358sEsEduvH8_hGkVn_C47eY3dseVz1mFMncBQKdcK0zXpB8TdfANSX9K6uYJqSWSVIlWfuJrQYz5y5dNEWEd_DCX71gPC3dhl_2guPn_MTDWv2uk3qf9naYoWiW4xhivyJttOdFWfAQX/s1600/1485566919245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj358sEsEduvH8_hGkVn_C47eY3dseVz1mFMncBQKdcK0zXpB8TdfANSX9K6uYJqSWSVIlWfuJrQYz5y5dNEWEd_DCX71gPC3dhl_2guPn_MTDWv2uk3qf9naYoWiW4xhivyJttOdFWfAQX/s200/1485566919245.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trains. His very favourite thing in the whole world. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Because I had to take my baby, deliver him to his (beautiful, gentle, wonderful) teacher.<br />
<br />
And leave him there.<br />
<br />
Walk away without him.<br />
<br />
I was glad to have my girl with me for that day, but I think Monday when I must leave them both, I will shed more tears.<br />
<br />
No longer are my precious kids orbiting in the universe I have created for them.<br />
<br />
No longer are they relying just on me, Mama (and Papa too of course).<br />
<br />
They are both now venturing out on their Grand Adventure, which is peopled and influenced by so many others.<br />
<br />
Which means they will have an existence, an experience, which I will largely not know about. I won't know the details of every conversation that they have, with their teachers, and their friends. I won't hear all the things that make them giggle, cry, and be able to guide their interactions with others. I can't cuddle them when they are hurt at school.<br />
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So I'm hoping that the foundations we have laid will endure and keep them safe, keep them knowing they are loved, whatever they encounter.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
**********************</div>
<br />
I collected him yesterday, all smiles as he walked out in lines, holding hands with his friend. <br />
He still looked tiny. <br />
They all did. <br />
With their enormous backpacks, and hats, and uniforms 2 sizes too big.<br />
<br />
He had a great day. Thankful, so thankful.<br />
And he wants to go back. Doubly thankful.<br />
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But there's still a tear or two to shed. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9Wkr7jw5q6Eqkp2iV_IVAGR-giwGXjPzy_ay39nsfpW7ZCJaf5kSHFYj4PRIGH-Q2kgn7KuvQk1lg1aicFfZpHxpDr7olN0mZcFNGgt7Lizcb-xeKOmwAtKyWqGNab9tvsvnQ1qDpvJT/s1600/1485567128378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU9Wkr7jw5q6Eqkp2iV_IVAGR-giwGXjPzy_ay39nsfpW7ZCJaf5kSHFYj4PRIGH-Q2kgn7KuvQk1lg1aicFfZpHxpDr7olN0mZcFNGgt7Lizcb-xeKOmwAtKyWqGNab9tvsvnQ1qDpvJT/s320/1485567128378.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Because I think he grew a year in that one day.<br />
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He needs me just a little less.<br />
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Grief and Joy.<br />
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Because that is what we long for them. <br />
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To raise them so they are healthy without us one day.<br />
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It's a funny gig, this parenting job. To render yourself redundant.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYAZxpPQKacV7BNQiJgKmD9lTiyIkzJihaIYJ-RfYK27wOrm4pVdAztXrmfa-JtdsLHaFKcrVi2gO7kWwGIyAZZlJ-h1auFhvUOcyb1mLCv3b5IjlnYv6aOawNoI0Szk8ApiwfYrmkml_/s1600/1485567192613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYAZxpPQKacV7BNQiJgKmD9lTiyIkzJihaIYJ-RfYK27wOrm4pVdAztXrmfa-JtdsLHaFKcrVi2gO7kWwGIyAZZlJ-h1auFhvUOcyb1mLCv3b5IjlnYv6aOawNoI0Szk8ApiwfYrmkml_/s320/1485567192613.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off on a Very Grand Adventure<br />
And I will always be here waiting for them to come home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The joy in this? They will always need our love.<br />
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-45230173266919188032017-01-03T22:44:00.003+11:002017-01-03T23:11:26.473+11:00I Heart Cinnamon: Cinnamon Syrup Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you know me at all, you know I love Cinnamon.</div>
<br />
And all things Cinnamon inspired - Chai, Glühwein (similar to Mulled Wine), Teacakes, Pfeffernüsse, Gingerbread, and on it goes.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGI5wv81y4kYW4aMlEiBVmkpzGc2DgupWXzwgExW4Pdo9BRNDwIW14Pg5sqqTXVSLqgYA8AlwSxYbNEA6e_Y_-cRO329EhI88HFNLv5zqqkCVrfyWwScR3-AVtwFpZkubJ4qTIRHdN8kuz/s1600/IMG_3580+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGI5wv81y4kYW4aMlEiBVmkpzGc2DgupWXzwgExW4Pdo9BRNDwIW14Pg5sqqTXVSLqgYA8AlwSxYbNEA6e_Y_-cRO329EhI88HFNLv5zqqkCVrfyWwScR3-AVtwFpZkubJ4qTIRHdN8kuz/s320/IMG_3580+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
At the supermarket yesterday I saw bulk cinnamon. I've never seen that before at our regular store.<br />
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Its siren song called so of course I bought it.<br />
<br />
I've been making some home cooked goodies for Christmas Hampers for friends, and felt inspired to make up a Cinnamon Syrup. I was sure I'd seen a recipe somewhere, although when I went to find it, it seemed I'd imagined it. Not that surprising really.<br />
<br />
<i>Edit: I found the recipe after all - Everyday Cooking for Thermomix Families - Star Anise & Cinnamon Syrup. But it still didn't have enough cinnamon for what I was dreaming of...</i><br />
<br />
So here is my attempt to create a Cinnamon Syrup. <br />
<br />
I kept it simple so it's gluten free, and can be used in drinks or as a topping on food. There were other recipes that incorporated flour to thicken it, perhaps I'll experiment with that next time.<br />
<br />
I used the Simple Syrup recipe from <a href="http://thermofun.com/sugar-simple-syrup-recipe/" target="_blank">ThermoFun </a>- if you haven't heard of Simple Syrup before, it's the name for a syrup made of sugar and water. It's often used as a base for flavoured syrups or for cocktails. It's a handy recipe to know, and if you're into cocktails, to keep on hand in the fridge!<br />
<br />
After perusing a few recipes, the one that took my fancy was the one <a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/fwx/drink/how-make-cinnamon-syrup-and-3-great-cocktails-use-it" target="_blank">here</a>, that incorporated the most cinnamon - the more the better in my opinion! By the way, that site had some inspiring recipes for a variety of cinnamon inspired cocktails.<br />
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This recipe also said to leave the cinnamon sticks in the syrup to steep overnight. I was short on time, so added them in during the cooking phase, but left a couple of quills in each jar to enhance the flavour and make it look all pretty. <br />
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I also added a splash of (home made) vanilla essence, and used half and half coconut sugar (for some reason I had heaps in the cupboard), and brown sugar.<br />
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The coconut sugar has a roasted bitterness to it, reminiscent of coffee, that would take the edge off the sweetness, and I felt like the brown sugar enhances the cosy cinnamon goodness.<br />
<br />
Initially while it was cooking I was worried because I could smell the roasted flavours more than any other, but at the end of the cooking time, sweet cinnamon fragrances had developed. <br />
<br />
100g coconut sugar<br />
100g Brown Sugar<br />
5g Vanilla Essence<br />
240g Water<br />
6 Cinnamon Quills<br />
<br />
Place all ingredients in the bowl<br />
Dissolve <b>10 mins / 110 C / Speed 1</b><br />
<br />
If you don't have a Thermomix, you can still make the syrup: place all ingredients in a saucepan, and gently bring to the boil until the sugar is dissolved. Allow to simmer for a few minutes until the flavours infuse.<br />
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We added some to a berry iced tea for a little sweetness. And then of course we took turns licking the bowl to taste it. The consensus was that it's delicious.<br />
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The verdict from a 12 year old we love who has a very discerning palate:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27YxfybnHBTfsWWi-FHHm4iQfjPrYgfgkpfsEDRM0XIA1Mf11njwE3yhkitLTvrcvAVvNs11JeL3AXNp-NhC9ceS8ls1PH9T0UDst46XhBFdOfI6-BoEztPUIp7OkrOix-dGwseHQ4i0y/s1600/IMG_3575+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27YxfybnHBTfsWWi-FHHm4iQfjPrYgfgkpfsEDRM0XIA1Mf11njwE3yhkitLTvrcvAVvNs11JeL3AXNp-NhC9ceS8ls1PH9T0UDst46XhBFdOfI6-BoEztPUIp7OkrOix-dGwseHQ4i0y/s320/IMG_3575+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<b>"Tastes like a bakery!" </b></div>
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I'll take that!<br />
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I'm sure you could embellish this by adding other flavours such as orange zest, or other spices like cloves, but I wanted to keep it simple this first time.<br />
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I can't wait to add it to other things to share the cinnamon love. I'm thinking Yoghurt, ice cream, tea, coffee... What would you add it to?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5v53Y1stvSU3gSoqgmlnXmX06Wj3QHRR2vnZK2SpbtU1BWMxCXlTwe4H5vQFdIl6AVp5HjGwpaUNnQ42z_LPAJwSEOtDP-hjKiyOWewQrWEBbx96s0X3TmUDHiGdS9yKzBuSHSFkga_GH/s1600/Cinnamon+Syrup+Recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5v53Y1stvSU3gSoqgmlnXmX06Wj3QHRR2vnZK2SpbtU1BWMxCXlTwe4H5vQFdIl6AVp5HjGwpaUNnQ42z_LPAJwSEOtDP-hjKiyOWewQrWEBbx96s0X3TmUDHiGdS9yKzBuSHSFkga_GH/s400/Cinnamon+Syrup+Recipe.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here it is all tucked into its hamper, nice and snug :)<br />
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-55313437864519199142016-11-23T13:19:00.001+11:002016-11-23T13:19:25.870+11:00PausingSo it's the most hectic time of the year for teachers.... (I am a teacher in case you didn't know that about me) - hence the quietness of the blog of late.<br />
<br />
I haven't managed to work on much of anything, except deadlines, let alone rustle up a blog post!<br />
I have to admit that after the year we've had, I'm utterly spent.<br />
<br />
I'm making myself take an enforced break today (I even chose to mark student work because it means I had to sit down! Things are getting desperate when I'm this tired!).<br />
<br />
So I was pondering my knitting. And why I haven't been knitting as much lately.<br />
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I have some lovely projects that I *want* to make.<br />
<br />
Some projects I'm *preparing* to make, including this Gilmore Girls Mystery Knit-A-Long* that I'm seriously excited about.<br />
<br />
I've got some things that I did finish recently - also the result of Knit-a-Longs*, but I haven't had a moment to share them with you (coming soon!)<br />
<br />
So back to the pondering...<br />
<br />
I realised I do have some projects underway, but they're just not calling my name at the moment... The reason why? <br />
<br />
I have to rip** them<br />
<br />
It's a sad day when a knitter comes to the realisation of the need to rip a project.<br />
<br />
A lovely podcast I follow (the <a href="http://yarniacs.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Yarniacs</a>, I do recommend!) a while back mentioned that the 5 stages of grief apply quite aptly to the process of coming to terms with undoing all those hard-won stitches!<br />
<br />
It's taken a couple of weeks to process whether I *need* to begin again, and then a little more time for the acceptance... Now I have to come to terms with actually undoing my projects.<br />
<br />
You may be wondering why I am going to undo some perfectly lovely knitting (because surprisingly in this case, it's not due to knitting mistakes - that kind of undoing does happen on a regular basis. And yes, it makes me come a little undone as well as the knitting).<br />
<br />
Princess asked for a shawl of her own. I'm thrilled to oblige! We decided to use the remnants of a ball of Star Finch by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/CircusTonicHandmade" target="_blank">CircusTonicHandmade</a> that I used to make my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sweet-pie-socks" target="_blank">Sweet Pie Socks</a> (more information will come some day!), which serendipitously matches perfectly with a ball of coral <a href="http://www.bendigowoollenmills.com.au/Product/tabid/55/2328/2328/186358/LUXURY/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Luxury</a> from <a href="https://www.bendigowoollenmills.com.au/" target="_blank">Bendigo Woollen Mills</a>. <br />
<br />
I assiduously researched <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/" target="_blank">Ravelry</a> to find a shawl that I could knit the body in the solid colour, and then gradually incorporate the variegated yarn at the edge, which ideally would be some kind of simple lace. Something suitable for a girl.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5TQtHJV7Oc1ANdXy-pITb3-DjbJ-zSIzjg70ie-wxSoB318JHEpVXo_xLpaZmEvYuz1OlsNxyN6nMmGbjoT9JK4YGMFW1296-xyEktFxBjW-MuHolBAH0BknCuwZqmI9lrMABzZ_oRxo/s1600/IMG_2703+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5TQtHJV7Oc1ANdXy-pITb3-DjbJ-zSIzjg70ie-wxSoB318JHEpVXo_xLpaZmEvYuz1OlsNxyN6nMmGbjoT9JK4YGMFW1296-xyEktFxBjW-MuHolBAH0BknCuwZqmI9lrMABzZ_oRxo/s320/IMG_2703+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I do love the snowflake detail emerging on the edge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />I found a lovely pattern called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/snowflake-party" target="_blank">Snowflake Party</a>. If you know me (and Princess), you know how much we love snow! I got all excited.<br />
<br />
Which made me forget that it needed to be knit horizontally so that the lace could be in the variegated yarn. I remembered *after* I started knitting it! The Snowflake Party shawl is knit diagonally. It could still be lovely, as there will be more snowflakes towards the end, but it still wasnt quite what i envisaged. The pattern is lovely, and I will return to it for a future shawl!<br />
<br />
Instead I think I'll make the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/blossomfield" target="_blank">Blossomfield </a>Shawl designed by one of my favourite designers, Meg Gadsbey. It is knit horizontally, and designed so that the lace flowers are knit in a lighter shade.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1ajx2EAmplJ0fvyhKc-i51xG8Oc-J8_o0jtVGSoSwL8QKYepgtVKC64yhZvp38HD8hOlZRrqu0t5XM7aOCXguqmkP_ZukJX_clD_xI9jehR-XY8ZlQORoVnD0Ygxp0HegJ29OA5jk4y3/s1600/IMG_2700+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1ajx2EAmplJ0fvyhKc-i51xG8Oc-J8_o0jtVGSoSwL8QKYepgtVKC64yhZvp38HD8hOlZRrqu0t5XM7aOCXguqmkP_ZukJX_clD_xI9jehR-XY8ZlQORoVnD0Ygxp0HegJ29OA5jk4y3/s320/IMG_2700+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Symmetrical Gradient :)</td></tr>
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My other project waiting to be ripped is a pair of rainbow socks. I was excited to buy some yarn that has a symmetrical colour gradient. It's designed for knitting two socks at a time, using the outer end and inner end of the yarn at once. I tried to cast on two at once, but got into a dreadful muddle.<br />
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Instead, I pulled out my teeny tiny little sock needles, to knit one at a time. I'm getting used to the little needles, and quite liking the technique. It's easier than using a magic loop or two circulars, as you just keep knitting around and around.<br />
<br />
But as the socks have emerged, I think that the stripes are a little too wide. So I'm going to knit a larger sock. This will mean that the stripes will be a slightly narrower, and should create a fun sock!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQE3WdARX0wln5W2Xpl7jAGpxg3d20ChpTnuM5K9mlidSTXqyH9u0bdwT2BpnFahGAJgG2pCp1ym3gF4zZ-xYeQg9jTKW3WUSmyOm9kVBekdbPR4Dt-iGMbZGOfUHuQE3eHWLaVzp4l8d/s1600/IMG_2702+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQE3WdARX0wln5W2Xpl7jAGpxg3d20ChpTnuM5K9mlidSTXqyH9u0bdwT2BpnFahGAJgG2pCp1ym3gF4zZ-xYeQg9jTKW3WUSmyOm9kVBekdbPR4Dt-iGMbZGOfUHuQE3eHWLaVzp4l8d/s320/IMG_2702+edit.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Stripe! I haven't even reached the end of the first colour yet!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Of course, I could continue with both of these projects as they are, and they would be perfectly lovely.<br />
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But I make things for the joy that it brings, and I think both of them would be better if I change them slightly. I'd rather undo this relatively small amount of work now, than wonder if the alternative would have been lovelier once they are finished!<br />
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It may be crazy, but it makes me happy!<br />
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Now that I've come to terms with it all, I'm off to undo some knitting!<br />
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Do you ever undo projects? Why? Have you ever continued with a project and then regretted it?<br />
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* Knit-a-Long = knitting along with a group of other people working on the same project or theme, usually on Ravelry. Bonus if prizes are part of the fun; Also: Lots of fun, learning, swapping tips! <br />
** rip = undo knitting<br />
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Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-49138506825597791272016-10-08T14:29:00.002+11:002017-04-29T13:06:39.114+10:00Let's talk about ...Nope. Not going to say it. My aim is to avoid the S word right through this blog post. In fact, I'm going to try to avoid all the embarrassing words in this blog post. Just to make things extra funny...<br />
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When I was expecting Dude and Princess wanted to know about how the baby was going to get out, my wise obstetrician's advice was to use distraction effectively... <br />
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Something like:<br />
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"Well the baby's got a special way of getting out. Hey! Would you like some chocolate?"<br />
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Which is kind of funny, seeing as she specialises in getting the babies out. <br />
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But I guess she doesn't specialise in telling small people all about it.<br />
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Although I dodged a bullet there (that answer worked by the way), I figured that wasn't a long term solution.<br />
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The questions started coming from the Dude too I guess, and it seemed like a good opportunity to satisfy their natural curiosity.<br />
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I am absolutely no kind of expert in this area*. but I love picture books, and I've spent a fair bit of time teaching children*** so I figured I should find some resources.<br />
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I seemed to have imbibed a few approaches from the ether:<br />
<br />
* using correct anatomical names for body parts in order to:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>be matter-of-fact (no shame); </li>
<li>educate; and </li>
<li>empower (it's supposed to be a good protective strategy in potential abuse situations</li>
</ul>
* trying to give a good answer to any question while keeping it age appropriate - I don't want my kids to feel like there is any shame in their curiosity and questions; but I also didn't want to freak them out.<br />
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We have also been privileged to attend a seminar at my kids' school called "Amazing Me" - Princess is in Year 3, and to be honest, I wasn't quite ready for her to hear 'the talk' yet. <br />
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But I preferred that she hear it from someone good at delivering that information, and to hear it with me. I definitely didn't want her to hear it in the playground with embellishments...<br />
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The educator was awesome. She delivered her stuff informatively, with humour, and with sensitivity. I learned a lot about how to talk to my kids from her approach.<br />
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My impression of the evening was that all us parents wanted to crawl under the seats with our awkwardness about the topic, I suspect most of us were a bit red in the face. Luckily no-one was game to look around.<br />
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But the kids? They just absorbed it all as fascinating information. They were desperate to answer the questions they knew, no embarrassment there! Which was great.<br />
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I've also noticed that when I talk to the Dude about his questions, he's just fascinated by it as interesting information. There's no concept (yet) of just how *embarrassing* this could be... So I'm glad he's asking the questions now, and we can talk about them, because I think he's at a great age just to take it all in as fascinating facts. And that's got to be powerful - he'll know how things work, and take it all for granted, before he gets to an age where it is embarrassing or shocking to discover.<br />
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Anyway, back to the point. I have absolutely no idea what I originally googled when I went searching for resources for kids on this topic. I'm sure it was embarrassing.<br />
<br />
I do recall checking out the <a href="http://www.amightygirl.com/" target="_blank">A Mighty Girl</a> website, which is a treasure trove of fabulous resources, particularly aimed at empowering girls. One of my favourite parts of the site is the book list - there are awesome resources on all sorts of topics. It's well worth checking out. The topics range across all sorts of topics from History to Social Issues to Fiction to Understanding Yourself (including understanding issues like Aspergers) to Nature.<br />
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I looked at several of the books they suggested, and then took some time to read through the reviews on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. <br />
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<i>(as an aside, I always use the Amazon.com site, not the Australian one, because it has more on it). </i><br />
<br />
People take the time to write such detailed and informative reviews, and I really appreciated it on this occasion, because it allowed me to eliminate some books that are probably great, but weren't what I wanted.<br />
<br />
I chose a few books. Some suited to younger children, or as a reference for either child, that I'm happy to leave on the bookshelf for them to look at whenever they want.<br />
<br />
One of the books is definitely one that I have put aside, and will pull out at times to look at specific pages. It's for older children, and is more detailed. Some of the concepts in it are better for us to read and discuss together. It's still an awesome book, but I do think it's important to decide for your own family what you are comfortable with and what feels appropriate.<br />
<br />
All of the books communicate the value of our bodies, how amazing they are, and reinforce a value of our right to ownership of our bodies (even if it's not explicit). <br />
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I've really tried to capitalise on the opportunity with my kids to let this reflect on our amazing Creator!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6JBoxKdbglj3Jy51yAnl03pxFpThUnlCZvaOYvTzCAM8Jl7V1GU7DPyLHMo3hduVaqulyNh98Tv-cfyixWKVQMVdrscOngeFzKHMUGmjAtr2ciTbUrwXxnhzq8to_pZ3LlDNQ9qLzZvh/s1600/1475893161425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6JBoxKdbglj3Jy51yAnl03pxFpThUnlCZvaOYvTzCAM8Jl7V1GU7DPyLHMo3hduVaqulyNh98Tv-cfyixWKVQMVdrscOngeFzKHMUGmjAtr2ciTbUrwXxnhzq8to_pZ3LlDNQ9qLzZvh/s320/1475893161425.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142410586/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0142410586&linkCode=as2&tag=sewknitcrap-20&linkId=8f085a1dd4fe979e7b753666a3d07727" target="_blank">Amazing You!: Getting Smart About Your Private Parts</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sewknitcrap-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0142410586" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b></i><br />
by Gail Saltz.<br />
This is such a great book. It is positive and simple, and suitable for young children - from around Preschool age, but could be used with slightly older children too.<br />
The explanations of bodies and where babies come from is appropriate for younger children. The way the illustrations work, also would allow you to expand upon caesarean and 'normal' deliveries if it's something you want to discuss with your kids. This is one of the books that lives on our bookshelf, and which gets pulled out by the kids. I did read this with the children a few times first <b>before</b> the book appeared on the bookshelf.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763629316/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0763629316&linkCode=as2&tag=sewknitcrap-20&linkId=d6c947c35965c6257c8168ec72e87a03" target="_blank">Who Has What?: All About Girls' Bodies and Boys' Bodies (Let's Talk about You and Me)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sewknitcrap-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0763629316" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b><br />
by Robie H. Harris<br />
This is for slightly older children. It's a little longer and more involved. It relates differences between girls' and boys' bodies to familiar animals such as pets so children can draw a link between things they have seen in their environment. I think younger kids might not understand the links quite so clearly, but it's a great approach.<br />
It is less about how babies are made, and more about our bodies are awesome, and their similarities and differences.<br />
It's another book I'm happy to have out for my kids (again after reading it with them), but I think younger children would benefit more from having an adult read it with them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdctNhSzKZEaqypGNIXecOCHn3jfdSrjxhi5mgOiO8P7tbVWNT8zcOyXmjHTwK_VqiFZ7I8g2e4QwV-U7F27U41MQnBN9MJEjUyZURIXPB1MU2g1q12G45eUxTyz1bk-pBD7SnX3EPG8Kd/s1600/1475896615551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdctNhSzKZEaqypGNIXecOCHn3jfdSrjxhi5mgOiO8P7tbVWNT8zcOyXmjHTwK_VqiFZ7I8g2e4QwV-U7F27U41MQnBN9MJEjUyZURIXPB1MU2g1q12G45eUxTyz1bk-pBD7SnX3EPG8Kd/s320/1475896615551.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="271" /></a></div>
<b><i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763633313/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0763633313&linkCode=as2&tag=sewknitcrap-20&linkId=c0fdbb9f17c4a68b260c37ea8ed139fc" target="_blank">It's Not the Stork!: A Book About Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends (The Family Library)</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sewknitcrap-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0763633313" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></i></b><br />
by Robie. H Harris.<br />
Another book by the same author as "<i><u><b>Who Has What</b></u></i>". This is definitely for older children (but still suitable for primary age). It's got lots of fantastic information, and answers more specific and common questions about exactly what goes on, including questions kids ask, like where the baby is, and how it eats!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbY8q3_R7SBWhdMjwHGOZYY-_-2SykRmVE5qObXu0nH4lj30yOANhMXXy0Umust_PiKpHXdWWZhFCgxP5HgKgCcpm7ZTnwHhHWH8X_UPozkxHRzLFBEyn54zv5e8eZHbesN-4THGlJ7xx/s1600/1475896709639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbY8q3_R7SBWhdMjwHGOZYY-_-2SykRmVE5qObXu0nH4lj30yOANhMXXy0Umust_PiKpHXdWWZhFCgxP5HgKgCcpm7ZTnwHhHWH8X_UPozkxHRzLFBEyn54zv5e8eZHbesN-4THGlJ7xx/s320/1475896709639.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great diagrams to answer kids' questions</td></tr>
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Having said that, it is also a book that I keep away, and will bring out to respond to specific questions, or explain concepts. <br />
It uses the construct of some extra characters: a bee, and a bird (Yes! How appropriate!) to provide other voices which can be curious, or grossed out. It's a clever construct and fills an important role. However, I think they make it more complex to follow the main ideas of the text. I've found this in experiences with other factual texts for children, It's another feature that makes me think this book is better for slightly older children.<br />
Importantly, it also includes a section on child protection: safe touch and unsafe touch, which is excellent. This is a page, however, that contains some information that some families might be a little uncomfortable with.<br />
<br />
<i style="text-align: right;"></i><br />
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Here's a photo of the contents so you can see the topics that are covered.</div>
<br />
There are several other books written on these topics by Robie H. Harris - I think they were for older children. If you are keen to keep researching, I recommend the Amazon reviews as a handy place to find reflections on great books on the topic.<br />
<br />
I'm also intrigued by "<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0992953006/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0992953006&linkCode=as2&tag=sewknitcrap-20&linkId=f961c30cc8b809af8a73a3060d84ca6c" target="_blank"><i><b>My Underpants Rule</b></i></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sewknitcrap-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0992953006" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />" which I've noticed being advertised online. I haven't done any research into it, but a quick look at the site makes me think it looks like an excellent approach for helping protect children, and helping them learn to protect themselves. I'd love to hear if anyone else has looked into it, and what you think!<br />
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<i>Please excuse me while I go purchase another book!</i><br />
<br />
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In fact, if you have any wisdom or advice on this area, we'd all love to hear it! Please let us know in the comments or on facebook.</div>
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<i>*I am absolutely no kind of expert in this area, and this is a very limited list of resources. I wrote this blog post to save boring the pants**off a few friends while I rabbited on about some books I found on the topic. This way if they are bored they can wander off and have a nice cup of tea. And a lie down. Or both. And I'll never know ;)</i><i> </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>** yes, that is an unfortunate turn of phrase given the topic, but it made me laugh. I hope it makes you laugh too</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>*** I'm not going to tell you how many years, because then you might figure out how old I am. And we can't have that.</i>Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-78162809143270439562016-09-30T18:07:00.000+10:002016-09-30T18:07:03.113+10:00Pomegranate Fudge? I have only ever once tried to make fudge.<br />
<br />
It was a dismal failure. <br />
<br />
So I gave up on that.<br />
<br />
10 years later, now owning a Thermomix, and often being the recipient of someone else's yummy fudge, I decided it was time to conquer my fears and try again.<br />
<br />
A box of fudge seemed the perfect accompaniment for a brief holiday with friends by the water.<br />
<br />
So I tried again. My only problem was finding a recipe that was constituted from ingredients that were in our house. I did try to go shopping with an actual shopping list. But I still managed to forget important fudgy components.<br />
<br />
Finally I found <a href="https://tenina.com/recipes/get-fudging-thermomix" target="_blank">this </a>fantastic recipe from Tenina which, for some reason, doesn't contain glucose syrup. I'm not sure why this is important to most people (gluten? intolerance? feel free to enlighten me!) but it was important to me because we have no glucose syrup.<br />
<br />
I followed the recipe carefully, even milling the sugar an extra 2 times to avoid any grittiness as mentioned in the reviews. Everything was in: the condensed milk, the vanilla, and the butter. Oh, the butter!<br />
<br />
But I forgot to check my golden syrup supplies. Golden Syrup is just always there when you need it, surely? Even my trusty neighbours had run out.<br />
<br />
It was too late to back out, so I had to find Plan B<br />
<br />
After watching the merest dribble of syrup fail to meet the requisite amount, I searched the pantry. The best thing I could find was Pomegranate Molasses. I bought this for something important I had planned and never gotten around to. I too find it incredible that there was no golden syrup, but pomegranate molasses were in stock.<br />
<br />
I hoped it would have a great flavour, and the same gooey consistency. I thought I'd better taste test first - it's quite tangy, so I wasn't entirely confident. But then I figured there was already enough sugar in the mixture to make this work. It also isn't gooey like golden syrup. <br />
<br />
I followed Tenina's instructions for the cooking process and time, and also her instructions for the fudge to cool for a long time, preferably overnight *not* in the fridge. Husband had to be warned away so that he didn't burn himself with the mixture....<br />
<br />
The recipe tastes AMAZING!! But I wouldn't call it a fudge. The texture is more like a caramel, perhaps because of the consistency of the molasses vs the golden syrup. It is incredibly moreish. It is sweet and yummy, and the pomegranate molasses give it a tangy juicy quality. <br />
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If you're up for some experimenting and have the patience to cut the caramel up (it does require commitment - thank you Husband) I can recommend you try this. It keeps best in the fridge, and is just divine with a cup of tea!<br />
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Isn't it wonderful when cooking experiments create new delights!<br />
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Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-76290268153448970202016-09-28T15:09:00.002+10:002016-09-28T15:09:42.513+10:00Roast Pumpkin & Chorizo SoupSpring is most definitely on the way now, despite my being lucky enough to squeeze in a crazy ski trip last weekend.<br />
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<br />
It may have involved some shenanigans that resulted in injury. I'm all better now and still maintain that I'm not too old for adventures!<br />
<br />
The children and I have been enjoying spotting each new bud and blossom in our garden. Even the weeds bring my dude great joy - they are sunshine yellow after all!<br />
<br />
Still, we've had some unexpectedly chilly days lately, so I'm making the most of the opportunity for more soups.<br />
<br />
I had pumpkin, and a surfeit of chorizos*. I also wanted to use the Thermomix to cook this meal - feeling far to lazy to bother cooking my usual Pumpkin Soup recipe on the stove...<br />
<br />
So, here's my experimental Roast Pumpkin & Chorizo soup. It turned out surprisingly yummy, if I do say so myself! It's a hearty, sweet, chunky soup. I'll try to improve my recipe layout for you later, but for now, here it is to enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
1/2 Butternut Pumpkin - remove seeds<br />
1 Sweet Potato<br />
Olive oil<br />
1 onion<br />
2 chorizo**<br />
knob of butter<br />
500 ml Chicken Stock<br />
Maple Syrup - splash<br />
<br />
<b>Method:</b><br />
Preheat oven 220<br />
Roughly chop pumpkin into quarters (you can leave it whole, but this quarters makes it quicker)<br />
Cut sweet potato into large rough chunks<br />
Drizzle with olive oil<br />
Roast in oven approx 20 min until soft and starting to brown.<br />
Place onion & chorizo in Thermomix: Chop 5 sec, speed 5<br />
Cook 2 Min / Varoma / reverse speed soft with butter<br />
Repeat until you are happy it's cooked through / starting to caramelise - 1 repeated 3 times.<br />
Scoop out the flesh of the roasted pumpkin & sweet potato. <br />
Add to Thermomix<br />
Add 500 ml chicken stock.<br />
Add a splash of maple syrup. Because Maple Syrup is always good right?<br />
Blend for 30 seconds, starting at speed 1 progressing to speed 3 to blend carefully (due to the chunks of veg, and the amount of liquid)<br />
Repeat until you are happy with the consistency, gradually increasing the speed.<br />
Check your soup and see if you like the chunkiness of it - this is for a hearty, chunky recipe. <br />
If you prefer a smoother soup, add a little more stock, milk or even cream!<br />
Add it gradually so that you are blending safely and so that you can check as you go.<br />
<br />
If you use boiling water to make your stock, you won't need to re-heat much, but you'll need to take even more care with blending.<br />
If you used cold water (like me) you will want to bring your soup back up to the heat.<br />
I cooked it for 10 min more at 95 degrees, reverse speed slow<br />
<br />
Serve with a dash of yoghurt or sour cream.<br />
<br />
<br />
**For a stove top recipe, dice the chorizo into neat little cubes, fry them, starting with a cold pan to allow them to render their tasty fat for the soup, then remove half. Leave half of the chunks to cook and flavour the soup. Add the remaining half after the blending process to add texture.<br />
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* I hate online shopping. But occasionally I use it so that we can get food into the house without my having to go get it. In an online shopping fail, I managed to order 2 kg of Chorizo. I blame Woolworths. That may or may not be fair. Luckily we like it and it freezes well. I have a couple of great recipes incorporating Chorizo, which I'll share soon. 2 kg is really quite a lot - I'd love any of your favourite chorizo recipes!Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-52969826072700521142016-09-14T14:27:00.002+10:002016-09-14T14:47:09.350+10:00Shawl v2.3This shawl has had so much more backwards progress (ripping, tinking and starting over!) than forwards.<br />
<br />
Finally, I think I may be heading in the right direction.<br />
<br />
Lots of careful counting and re-counting. And a little cheat - my numbers were out, so I did a sneaky increase in the middle, because I just could not find the mistake!<br />
<br />
I love it when I start to 'understand' the topography of the pattern. <br />
<br />
The pattern is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/daelin-shawl" target="_blank">Daelin Shawl,</a> the lace looks a little like leaves. Or from another angle, like hearts.*<br />
<i>* I just found Miriam Felton's blog, and the lace is a lute...</i><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_yi6Zn2D4UP8plQAZfnSeNUK4w5sGspII27GKHQaA6CfDExEy6yJZftZLgpwq6gkkJ26OyPror4I6utJ8Cth8em4zxXORXSzST6SY-_B8iqebziTKTkIFDuPUtzNauactJ23OBx-KUjQ/s1600/BKUodARAwzcnE9wwITQMw9pRXGTc_GTh8q88Dg0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_yi6Zn2D4UP8plQAZfnSeNUK4w5sGspII27GKHQaA6CfDExEy6yJZftZLgpwq6gkkJ26OyPror4I6utJ8Cth8em4zxXORXSzST6SY-_B8iqebziTKTkIFDuPUtzNauactJ23OBx-KUjQ/s320/BKUodARAwzcnE9wwITQMw9pRXGTc_GTh8q88Dg0.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the stems of the leaves are just starting to emerge - how appropriate for spring</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
Today has been a day in which it's hard to breathe.<br />
<br />
Sitting in the sunshine, enjoying blossoms, petals floating to the ground, inhaling the fragrance of jasmine, butterflies, and my buddy, along with the meditation of knitting has helped.<br />
<br />
The repetitive motion.<br />
<br />
The concentration required, knit, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, purl.<br />
<br />
Check and check again.<br />
<br />
Brings it's reward.<br />
<br />
Calm.<br />
<br />
Lace beginning to emerge.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to see it revealed.<br />
<br />
What do you do so you can breathe?<br />
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-55689109334493272572016-09-07T20:21:00.002+10:002016-09-07T20:22:29.320+10:00Moments found<div style="text-align: center;">
a time for sorrow and remembering</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
balm to comfort</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
like a gentle hug</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sunshine to cheer the soul</div>
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<br />
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sharing a burden, lifting the weight of one's own</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
providing lunch, sometimes preparing food is too hard</div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
inhaling the joy of boy & puppy, destined to be friends</div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
treasures found</div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
fragrance</div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
cosy comfort</div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
an unexpected blooming</div>
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-49768400060397243692016-09-05T14:35:00.000+10:002016-09-05T14:35:16.995+10:00Balm to the SoulI have just finished knitting up a beautiful shawl called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/balm-to-the-soul-shawlette-1" target="_blank">Balm to the Soul</a>.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMi0J9-eP4fVp6GhgdHPKNI6OxEulGYKsX6hwebn18jnUZodAoOo5nITgmXC4DlgHr7U7StPP6sqlv2bh_ehlSlrYAd2Fc2atPsUiMj-W-MzAJvaXSl2nn8wXQ9VayPUPKyVLhiUhw9nR8/s1600/IMG_20160901_183031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMi0J9-eP4fVp6GhgdHPKNI6OxEulGYKsX6hwebn18jnUZodAoOo5nITgmXC4DlgHr7U7StPP6sqlv2bh_ehlSlrYAd2Fc2atPsUiMj-W-MzAJvaXSl2nn8wXQ9VayPUPKyVLhiUhw9nR8/s320/IMG_20160901_183031.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
And it really has been.<br />
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I needed something simple and comforting, and this has been perfect.<br />
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The pattern was easy enough for my concentration levels (low), and although there are mistakes in it, they have become features.<br />
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I've been able to complete it in a fairly short space of time too, which is satisfying.<br />
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The alpaca yarn from <a href="http://www.adagiomills.com.au/" target="_blank">Adagio</a>, is beyond description. It is soft, snuggly and light. It has a smoothness to it, that seems like lanolin, but can't be, because Alpaca doesn't have any. I hope someone knows and can tell me what it is. Or perhaps it's just part of the glory of Alpaca!<br />
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If you've been thinking of trying some of their yarns, I highly recommend you do.<br />
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I was inspired by the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/adagioalpacamills/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Adagio Alpaca facebook </a>post, about a pattern called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/curl-curl" target="_blank">Curl Curl </a>designed for their yarn by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/people/atelieryarn" target="_blank">Meg Gadsbey, </a>who has lovely, modern styles. Their kit contains the yarn & pattern for a beautiful simple and warm cowl. You can get it <a href="https://shop.adagiomills.com.au/collections/frontpage/products/project-packs" target="_blank">here</a>. I was all set to cast on, but I had more yarn than the pattern required, which I really wanted to make the most of. If you are looking for a simple, snuggly cowl to knit, this would be a great project - also good for learning to knit in-the-round.<br />
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This led to a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/" target="_blank">Ravelry </a>search for something else fabulous. <br />
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If you aren't aware of Ravelry, and want to get into knitting or crochet, it's just amazing. It's an online collection of patterns, yarn databases, forums, groups, you name it.<br />
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The search functions within Ravelry are awesome.<br />
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I was able to search for a shawl with the type of yarn (DK / 8 ply), and the yardage. Then I browsed through the options that came up, and the name of this one caught my eye.<br />
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All the options you can choose from are listed down the side of the page. Here is what it looked like once I had chosen them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPKZ2Dj8FwYvC7voPOSZtJOQHkST2kRpKQyG_gPrI8wce0e4nmqIWebSUZaoskOHFcKt3hj1xw_kQhN6uDIhxwqnNcLjKzPj43-MddoqczH4YMYLD3w7NZIQq1S_i0eIIKchhDak6zIhb/s1600/Screenshot+%252822%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPKZ2Dj8FwYvC7voPOSZtJOQHkST2kRpKQyG_gPrI8wce0e4nmqIWebSUZaoskOHFcKt3hj1xw_kQhN6uDIhxwqnNcLjKzPj43-MddoqczH4YMYLD3w7NZIQq1S_i0eIIKchhDak6zIhb/s320/Screenshot+%252822%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another thing I love about Ravelry, is that they have regular updates to their Home Page to help you learn how to use all the features of Ravelry. <br />
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I have enjoyed knitting something chunkier and softer than the fine sock yarn I have been working with on other projects. And it was lovely to knit something quick (I'm a slow knitter). The yarn is called "Clouds", and has the loveliest of greys in it - there is the slightest amount of subtle variegation within the strands of the yarn. It's a little bit 'knubbly' with an imperfection here or there - which I think adds to the cosiness of the yarn. It is such a beautiful yarn to knit with.<br />
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I know there is a larger 4 ply shawl pattern called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/meggadsbeydesigns/photos/a.1745921939025527.1073741828.1744550005829387/1772579973026390/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Contrail </a>coming out later in this yarn, also by Meg Gadsbey - I can't wait to buy it - it's a modern, striking design and it looks fantastic. I'll let you know when the pattern is released!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm76lLX6WpztqUHk3YZ7zcm6umqRIlQn_b8iTsj5hi9MLKMQACf7Jye9JrkmYUBQeMZj6GZhfUl5SUmC-Z68wjpNR0qg5O2kP2zgle52IsSPvRODWVHsLdfP_KAvapETsjsqD7zjXOkkMB/s1600/IMG_20160901_183428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm76lLX6WpztqUHk3YZ7zcm6umqRIlQn_b8iTsj5hi9MLKMQACf7Jye9JrkmYUBQeMZj6GZhfUl5SUmC-Z68wjpNR0qg5O2kP2zgle52IsSPvRODWVHsLdfP_KAvapETsjsqD7zjXOkkMB/s320/IMG_20160901_183428.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<b><i>Balm to the Soul </i></b>is what I have needed in this season, and this knit has been it!<br />
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It was soothing and comforting.<br />
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There was time to master the basics of the increasing pattern (on the spine and border) before the other aspects of the pattern began.<br />
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I'm so pleased with how the lace worked out. Simple, not too fussy, and totally suits the alpaca.<br />
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If you are thinking of giving this one a go, here are my thoughts and how I changed the pattern.<br />
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It is a fairly small shawl. Probably a 'shawlette' really.<br />
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I got worried about this during the knit, wondering how it would be big enough to wear. I took a close look at the pattern pictures, and spent time reading through the comments on the Ravelry site - these can be a goldmine for you if you are considering a pattern, and want some perspectives on how other people found it.<br />
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It is most definitely a triangle shape - which means it isn't long for draping around artistically. It <b>is </b>the perfect size for wrapping snugly around my neck, and tucking the ends in - perfect for a cold weather shawl.<br />
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I did change the pattern slightly:<br />
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* I added a few increases in some of the stocking stitch sections - to encourage the shawl into more of a crescent shape than a triangle. This has only had a subtle effect on the shape of it, but I'm glad I did. It did mean the shawl became bigger sooner, and therefore, used more yarn. As a result I didn't repeat the lace section (The DK pattern indicated a repeat). I actually prefer it with just the one lace section<br />
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* I did the wrong number of rows in the moss (seed) stitch & garter stitch sections. I incorporated that into how I did the remaining scarf, to keep a 'balance' to the sizes of the different sections<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9uJEKP3X2cVaoyLLTSsvuJXp1uG-758WicXxUPTwA2E0lk9UuT18FmX5NcR9HvMgou6ohs59P7EjLlIrLsd5b8XHNnZVlnTvFuKkVi24kFBmuZl_0pNvZLtzgl8TZ2_OIL2H_3CKoodH/s1600/IMG_20160905_105501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9uJEKP3X2cVaoyLLTSsvuJXp1uG-758WicXxUPTwA2E0lk9UuT18FmX5NcR9HvMgou6ohs59P7EjLlIrLsd5b8XHNnZVlnTvFuKkVi24kFBmuZl_0pNvZLtzgl8TZ2_OIL2H_3CKoodH/s320/IMG_20160905_105501.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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* I repeated a section of stocking stitch / garter stitch to increase the overall size of the shawl<br />
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* This changed my stitch count, which affected the lace stitch. The lace pattern repeat was in multiples of 12 stitches. I increased the number of repeats, and kept enough "left over" to still incorporate the lace elements that were not part of the repeats. I think I ended up with a wider section of stocking stitch near the spine of the scarf, but I like how it has turned out.<br />
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* There was one criticism of the pattern in the comments - one knitter felt it had mistakes in it. I am not sure whether there were actual mistakes, but you did need to realise that the "border" and "spine" elements needed to stay consistent regardless of what else was happening. I think the pattern was a little unclear in this, although the notes did explain it well. I really appreciated the detailed notes, and I learned a lot about knitting shawls from reading them. I also really love the story behind a design - a pattern just isn't as appealing to me without that<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNqz1PQI1hpcG6eaOSB1jF5ItEA9OE_mcjOzP-9HKKMGQnGSZ1-JPzw7Y3xEwVFxtFupPQAQWa7GG1ZIM540m-yS5t963_pEgmZYnnqJZwNmYjwZrsQhdHoYdKkHNsNFel3QLIDo9ocE3/s1600/DSC_0408+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNqz1PQI1hpcG6eaOSB1jF5ItEA9OE_mcjOzP-9HKKMGQnGSZ1-JPzw7Y3xEwVFxtFupPQAQWa7GG1ZIM540m-yS5t963_pEgmZYnnqJZwNmYjwZrsQhdHoYdKkHNsNFel3QLIDo9ocE3/s320/DSC_0408+edit.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">blocking in the waves</td></tr>
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* Blocking For The Win. The blocking process was expedited because I *may* have spilled a cup of tea on my new shawl! I love that the lace is called "Crest of the Wave". One of my (and my mum's) favourite places has always been the ocean, so this element is important to me. Although the outer edge of the shawl didn't look very 'wavy', it responded so well to being eased into the wave shape while blocking. I'm th<span style="text-align: center;">rilled!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Y8WEF9SOgwcK4s8jDRVlTF35s-VbPXXidtjlm5JtnbffV9ZlMm1O39QJi7zWJF_Gaz9ozof4taOgu6-3eeO7RziLffiSkcxwvZElVEB3TROnOjqijzO0krp8S7_fUP2fi2O18DJHFkXf/s1600/DSC_0409+edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Y8WEF9SOgwcK4s8jDRVlTF35s-VbPXXidtjlm5JtnbffV9ZlMm1O39QJi7zWJF_Gaz9ozof4taOgu6-3eeO7RziLffiSkcxwvZElVEB3TROnOjqijzO0krp8S7_fUP2fi2O18DJHFkXf/s320/DSC_0409+edit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice day for sunbathing!</td></tr>
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The shawl was designed for teaching Shawl knitting, and I think it would be a great knit to try if you have stuck to scarves so far, and want to expand your knitting repertoire!<br />
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Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-19192846659599477022016-08-14T16:11:00.000+10:002016-08-14T16:14:14.313+10:00Look! I knitted a Hat! I finished my hat!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQU8kQ86S6UOAShkaYwjR3FBmbZ_85dGuHw8M1bnv3dg-5TysTitgbYluH2d2DSUUPEBtTcZaZuB1nsA1kP_H5tyxQqkH0o5INwkZ4KbOeXqm2ou8vuLSO2FILagAeg_bKQM0EWRfCLoa/s1600/Picture_20160810_194510338+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQU8kQ86S6UOAShkaYwjR3FBmbZ_85dGuHw8M1bnv3dg-5TysTitgbYluH2d2DSUUPEBtTcZaZuB1nsA1kP_H5tyxQqkH0o5INwkZ4KbOeXqm2ou8vuLSO2FILagAeg_bKQM0EWRfCLoa/s320/Picture_20160810_194510338+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love how it comes together in a star in the centre</td></tr>
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I did some serious knitting this week (never mind housework and other responsibilities) and whipped up a hat.<br />
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Yes, you read that right, I finished a knitting project fast enough to describe it as 'whipped up'.<br />
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All for a fun Knit-A-Long for the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cs7DnrFet8E" target="_blank">Hey Sister Podcast.</a><br />
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I found a great hat recommended by other knitters in the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/hey-sister-podcast/3469764/101-125#114" target="_blank">Hey Sister Chat thread</a> - the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ziggy-hat-4" target="_blank">Ziggy Hat </a>pattern, and I loved it.<br />
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It's a little large, but that's entirely my fault - as I picked up a yarn I had hanging around, unlabeled. Turns out it's probably 12 ply, and the pattern is for 10 ply. I still love it - it's that great slouchy vibe, and I can fix the loose 'cuff' by sewing through some shirring elastic.<br />
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I'm calling it my Serendipity Ziggy<br />
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Wish I'd had it for the snow - it's got some serious warmth.<br />
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The pattern looks lovely - it's a zig zag (hence the name) but I also think it's kind of like leaves on a vine.<br />
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It was simple enough for my (limited) concentration span, and forgiving enough to cope with a few mistakes (unless you look really closely and I won't let you!).<br />
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It was nice to do a quick project and get instant gratification.<br />
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It was much easier than I expected. Have you ever knit a hat? I'll definitely be knitting more.Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-48298966553886408422016-08-14T15:23:00.000+10:002016-08-14T15:23:27.998+10:00I need your help: Shawl Problems<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1UYfh3Nw9lJQ6Gl9wkoKoFQtZht1mxQCSlQ7FztnnBjTaIP4Q-nQDbec9vUmt1OEg18Tz4DApx-G0b4yoL_-WnuW2qqjPCj0ZnzjjcWr11M0oHuiDcmumzoET1jwNHJ-MS04Y_Z4ruNL/s1600/IMG_20160814_145402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1UYfh3Nw9lJQ6Gl9wkoKoFQtZht1mxQCSlQ7FztnnBjTaIP4Q-nQDbec9vUmt1OEg18Tz4DApx-G0b4yoL_-WnuW2qqjPCj0ZnzjjcWr11M0oHuiDcmumzoET1jwNHJ-MS04Y_Z4ruNL/s320/IMG_20160814_145402.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't that just lovely</td></tr>
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I started knitting up my glorious Hellomello handspun sock yarn into a shawl.<br />
I was so excited about it - the yarn is beautiful to work with, and light as air knitted up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRD3FMCcvXptzH913NnsPlH-UawhSJnB2yN55AT5kX8igvAWvk43gdKKGz9rM1zhdkQy6w4GqTkwQYACriaDsvcc6Wx03-ULSgWd3COC6cn8lVZXSvDzad5H1AQwRBcGz9aTnCEe78VcOb/s1600/1471150320249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRD3FMCcvXptzH913NnsPlH-UawhSJnB2yN55AT5kX8igvAWvk43gdKKGz9rM1zhdkQy6w4GqTkwQYACriaDsvcc6Wx03-ULSgWd3COC6cn8lVZXSvDzad5H1AQwRBcGz9aTnCEe78VcOb/s320/1471150320249.jpg" width="167" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect match for our plum blossoms</td></tr>
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sweet</div>
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I chose the Shetland lace patterned <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/midnight-in-sydney" target="_blank">Midnight in Sydney</a>. Which is a beautiful pattern, and I just love it. I thought it would be fairly simple, with lots of garter stitch and a *ahem* simple lace pattern on the edge. <br />
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I'm not an advanced knitter, so I thought I'd chosen something I could manage.<br />
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I still love the pattern, but I don't think I can knit it.<br />
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I used a safety line at the start of the lace pattern, which was a fantastic idea, because I had to keep ripping my knitting back to it. At least 4 times.<br />
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I couldn't even get to line 4 of the lace pattern (there are 26) despite repeated efforts.<br />
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I've decided to give up on the Midnight in Sydney pattern.<br />
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I don't know whether it's my (limited) abilities - there is a knit-4-together, and knit-4-together-through-back-loops that I find extremely difficult to do<br />
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Or whether the lace pattern is just not intuitive for me - I've found in other knits I've done, that there is a rhythm to the pattern that I gradually discover. <br />
<br />
I know I only got to 4 rows, but the lace pattern was repeated along the row - these rows have lots of stitches!!! I just couldn't get into the swing of it even though I could see how the lace was evolving.<br />
<br />
It is highly likely that the issue is my concentration - I couldn't seem to keep track of where I was up to.<br />
<br />
I refuse to admit that my eyesight is getting worse, although that may be a contributing factor...<br />
<br />
Anyway, now I am on the hunt for a new shawl pattern. I just can't decide. <br />
I'll list some below, and ask you to vote. <br />
But first, here are my guiding thoughts:<br />
* yarn yardage - I only have approx 450 m<br />
* I want a crescent shaped shawl (not an assymetrical triangular shawl this time)<br />
* I'd like to replace the garter stitch with stocking stitch, as I think it will show off the variegation in the yarn better<br />
* It can't be too tricky lol<br />
* It can't have any knit-4-togethers. They are my nemesis (along with a few other things)<br />
<br />
Here they are:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://quinceandco.com/products/everly" target="_blank">Everly</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWi6d3oWs6e8Ilz3m24C6VsPXXuMH65MgZzzGHbrEQ8bcpCy6Cm16m53yhnM0M2NafcLMnMpXK_YgSnkmCglTbkYDE8kE5FGxMCG8nPM6iWcrUu5Ti9S18oox4V6hjajTHbBp3DQYhUBgI/s1600/Everly+Shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWi6d3oWs6e8Ilz3m24C6VsPXXuMH65MgZzzGHbrEQ8bcpCy6Cm16m53yhnM0M2NafcLMnMpXK_YgSnkmCglTbkYDE8kE5FGxMCG8nPM6iWcrUu5Ti9S18oox4V6hjajTHbBp3DQYhUBgI/s1600/Everly+Shawl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(c) Carrie Bostick Hoge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Love the meaning behind the name<br />
It's a long shawl, but I could change the stitch count to make it smaller and fit my yarn yardage.<br />
The lace looks a little scary, but I can also see how it repeats<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/daelin-shawl" target="_blank">Daelin - </a>looks a bit celtic to me...; and I'm wondering if it's *meant* to be in green. Will it suit my sweet purple / pink yarn?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVpbk9ytweQh8IQ2Gxie8NxdNnpxtDRYAuBw-RIZ_B5Vc4qjA4fCNH7YD_waOyjdVCV2fkppramoK8z7TGOrPdLMDDPiHTalDJCSfPym9AgOK8YeN8hBxBVd5KWoZVv74WvY5kv8uhyzxS/s1600/daelin+shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVpbk9ytweQh8IQ2Gxie8NxdNnpxtDRYAuBw-RIZ_B5Vc4qjA4fCNH7YD_waOyjdVCV2fkppramoK8z7TGOrPdLMDDPiHTalDJCSfPym9AgOK8YeN8hBxBVd5KWoZVv74WvY5kv8uhyzxS/s320/daelin+shawl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(c) Miriam L Felton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/shaelyn" target="_blank">Shaelyn</a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfdcQirP0iu4A65o8N2GW3xOXYoZWBrnrgO7NusT1OtWMU12Efn2_UUDH7WGHq1Tc0IB3aLsTt9EwyPv_HIe6YzEldAH70WpYvgTb-e93H8E2xPUjcdS8ymZ0hIDsFZpkc_psM9sr7Zcf/s1600/shaelyn+shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfdcQirP0iu4A65o8N2GW3xOXYoZWBrnrgO7NusT1OtWMU12Efn2_UUDH7WGHq1Tc0IB3aLsTt9EwyPv_HIe6YzEldAH70WpYvgTb-e93H8E2xPUjcdS8ymZ0hIDsFZpkc_psM9sr7Zcf/s1600/shaelyn+shawl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(c) Leila Raabe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But will it be too tricky?<br />
Stocking stitch interspersed with lace.<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/silverleaf-2" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/silverleaf-2" target="_blank"></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/silverleaf-2" target="_blank">Silverleaf</a></div>
</div>
<a href="http://beavercreekfarm.typepad.com/walden_farm_notes/2010/09/fo-shaelyn-shawl.html" target="_blank"></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaubFh4-pVd3gZtBP4RmVgn5N-EROGRKvbONCNhDJaLzlcVXFLpMG22iyZNG7cedj5foe8iuicO-LOdJ0hocpf_qAWcBtbs045FDHO7K4okHoNgjFsjNCMaSVqqNWHUK29WG9SVZvn1L5I/s1600/Silverleaf+shawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaubFh4-pVd3gZtBP4RmVgn5N-EROGRKvbONCNhDJaLzlcVXFLpMG22iyZNG7cedj5foe8iuicO-LOdJ0hocpf_qAWcBtbs045FDHO7K4okHoNgjFsjNCMaSVqqNWHUK29WG9SVZvn1L5I/s1600/Silverleaf+shawl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(c) Maliha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gorgeous - but would it look better with a heavier yarn weight for a nice wintry shawl?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/spindrift-shawl" target="_blank">Spindrift</a><br />
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEn-OXM1lYkzyL3zX3MCFDM3VuY0d4FGlbiGyHMh6umuDiWB6mR81Xh74Hak9veZvznw_afjbmi7bqEv1bGl6iu9XhDRfTrXHlPAZVc9tmbKOGT7ovu9qyWlm9Pwarwbs3vKxMAaZWgeWZ/s1600/spindrift+sawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEn-OXM1lYkzyL3zX3MCFDM3VuY0d4FGlbiGyHMh6umuDiWB6mR81Xh74Hak9veZvznw_afjbmi7bqEv1bGl6iu9XhDRfTrXHlPAZVc9tmbKOGT7ovu9qyWlm9Pwarwbs3vKxMAaZWgeWZ/s1600/spindrift+sawl.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image: (c) Helen Stewart - Ravelry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is cool, because she has a whole set of tutorials to walk you through your first shawl.<br />
<br />
My only issue is that I'm not a huge fan of eyelets - I prefer more of a lace, but those eyelets sure do make a lovely pattern... And my yarn is similar to that one!<br />
<br />
I have started reading her tutorials, and have learned such a lot already - she also has a great podcast.<br />
You can find out more <a href="http://curioushandmade.com/" target="_blank">here</a><br />
<br />
I really need some help deciding here! Which one would you choose? <br />
<br />
<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-84042514037343439992016-08-05T14:07:00.000+10:002016-08-05T14:07:00.630+10:00Resting, of the Knitting KindIt's been great to have a break from normal responsibilities lately. <br />
I'm ready to head back to a great week at work next week, with our Winter Festival coming up.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, my resting has turned into the knitting kind.<br />
<br />
I've been going crazy trying some different projects, and finding some new podcasts and vidcasts.<br />
<br />
Honestly, I prefer Podcasts, because I have very little time to watch things, and the sound is usually tricky on vidcasts, but there are some lovely people telling their knitting stories and here are some that I've found...<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgyUkk-nHyX6zazGcOcpaPw" target="_blank">Hey Sister Vidcast</a><br />
<a href="http://www.knitmoregirlspodcast.com/" target="_blank">Knitmore Girls</a> Podcast<br />
<a href="http://yarniacs.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Yarniacs Podcast</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nevernotknitting.com/" target="_blank">Never Not Knitting</a> Podcast<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsHAwj2jXiwpiYOdYiY3Tgg" target="_blank">Grocery Girls Vidcast</a><br />
<br />I love them because they have been leading me to new patterns and new techniques - there is so much to be learned from the wisdom of others.<br />
<br />
And it's like having new friends to hang out with.<br />
<br />
Although I really would love to start a real-life knitting group. We could even combine it with a book club - the Knitmore Girls listed some of their favourite knitting-related writing last week, and I can't wait to get into some lovely stories. <br />
<br />
I've even got a coffee shop (more importantly, it stocks awesome tea!) in mind...<br />
<br />
Is anyone keen?<br />
<br />
So here's what I've been knitting.<br />
<br />
I started the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/midnight-in-sydney" target="_blank">Midnight in Sydney shawl</a> - love Meg Gadsbey's designs, with my New York Hello Mello hand dyed yarn given me by my Sisters-in-Law. <br />
<br />
As I looked at this fabric being knitted up, I thought of watercolours, and of impressionist art - reminiscent of Monet's garden.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0oEAy39AVTsFctLAHOISIA2kS9P5Fh0GpSnxARTghqJJrZujPGMKO0mG0Uy_eyJ92ExWSZkaeFjDDAUXuEZAprUFzWwsPy1_dTDVfH2SlltMR4JXt3brPAnr6MOxdWopUQOg_c55d_w9/s1600/Picture_20160805_132421328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0oEAy39AVTsFctLAHOISIA2kS9P5Fh0GpSnxARTghqJJrZujPGMKO0mG0Uy_eyJ92ExWSZkaeFjDDAUXuEZAprUFzWwsPy1_dTDVfH2SlltMR4JXt3brPAnr6MOxdWopUQOg_c55d_w9/s320/Picture_20160805_132421328.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The photo doesn't do it justice - I can't spread the shawl out because I'm in the middle of Tinking a row that I messed up by losing track of where I was. The lace work makes it slow going. <br />But the yarn and the shawl are light-as-air and I can't wait to see it progress.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I've started on the lace section now, which is proving challenging. Mainly because of the knit 4 togethers, and the concentration required!<br />
<br />
I took advice and put in a 'lifeline' so that I could rip back if necessary - so far I've needed it twice, so it's been worth the time it took. I'll keep moving the lifeline as I go. It's the yellow-green yarn you can barely see - it has been threaded through the last row that I knew was correct.<br />
<br />
I've also started a hat "<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ziggy-hat-4" target="_blank">Ziggy</a>", which I'm going to call my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lulubelle77/ziggy-hat" target="_blank">Serendipity Ziggy </a>because it is the combination of some unlabeled wool that was passed on to me (I think it's Bendigo 12 ply, in Oatmeal), and my using the wrong size needles by accident. <br />
<br />
Which have turned out to be the right size, because I originally thought the yarn was 10 ply, but it's 12 ply. <br />
<br />
So definitely Serendipity. <br />
<br />
The yarn is so lovely and squishy and it will be so warm. It's my first hat, so wish me luck. I found the pattern through the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/hey-sister-podcast/3469764/101-125#114" target="_blank">Hey Sister Podcast Hat Knit a Long</a>. There's a whole load of great suggestions for hats in there, including for beginners!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsvn3j32y0kTraXW239WTZR8ca0yWH0oKZ96AQUgDVXoyR3L0N96N73DHr_q_vdJWYS3B_sKJ3UDDbuYHlOoEjiporyMopqj-1I0nLRTTjTIoF9Y2HvpqOxXJi9widNSMjLP9uSXWe0dBc/s1600/Picture_20160805_130228316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsvn3j32y0kTraXW239WTZR8ca0yWH0oKZ96AQUgDVXoyR3L0N96N73DHr_q_vdJWYS3B_sKJ3UDDbuYHlOoEjiporyMopqj-1I0nLRTTjTIoF9Y2HvpqOxXJi9widNSMjLP9uSXWe0dBc/s320/Picture_20160805_130228316.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I just love having the opportunity to learn new things, master new challenges and create lovely things (albeit slowly).<br />
<br />
I am so thankful to my mum who taught me how to knit xxJustinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-65428659044992464592016-07-20T09:27:00.001+10:002016-07-20T09:27:28.282+10:00RestingIt's been a quiet and sad time for us lately, as most of you know.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsU1tOgEwZdavYktUXsaz2X2pyeIsAtLW4mVFCeeBhf8w3zrP5cbXJKLHl6XFoPL1x6ekezuPlqFEN9E7_25CjKqf9Ao4-jZC_sUXVFb1fkvBcnLDUVOZ1Lx6gkqDrU4IaxEVE2OusYsj2/s1600/IMG_20160708_204521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsU1tOgEwZdavYktUXsaz2X2pyeIsAtLW4mVFCeeBhf8w3zrP5cbXJKLHl6XFoPL1x6ekezuPlqFEN9E7_25CjKqf9Ao4-jZC_sUXVFb1fkvBcnLDUVOZ1Lx6gkqDrU4IaxEVE2OusYsj2/s320/IMG_20160708_204521.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I thought I would take my knitting with me and knit in the waiting times.<br />
<br />
But I just couldn't - somehow I couldn't lift my hands to my projects and knit.<br />
<br />
Have you ever found that when you pick up a project again it brings back the memories of what you were doing while you knit it?<br />
<br />
Somehow, woven into the fabric is the essence of what was around. <br />
<br />
I have picked up projects and had vivid images of the movie I was watching, or the scenery we were driving through.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEThtZah8gTGi6LjELFu_HoZRvHRXvjUlan6591aCQpAFNGmDSu-ifMZ-GL0NZr6nII5oRfAAW1agAbXX8rIzPrmvs7oziYl6dIQp19fnk0qQwo6kKDR5IqUObG6-NFC86OZxWSsCO73Dr/s1600/1467170754207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEThtZah8gTGi6LjELFu_HoZRvHRXvjUlan6591aCQpAFNGmDSu-ifMZ-GL0NZr6nII5oRfAAW1agAbXX8rIzPrmvs7oziYl6dIQp19fnk0qQwo6kKDR5IqUObG6-NFC86OZxWSsCO73Dr/s320/1467170754207.jpg" width="319" /></a><br />
I didn't want my lovely rainbow socks to have grief woven into their fabric.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZpxh_ckkXEKKeZhxEL3Cw0DbYx7eKJo-jTbicZQS21CPRkLVy9F0uxwfHoi3Wto7aHdpHnzdAX6XiTr3Oeuy-Tx-FKtWVs82D4kRrpAcg-17N9zLHiyBdNbYMg-J-iIX05Y6qVOXbgzt/s1600/1467170650618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZpxh_ckkXEKKeZhxEL3Cw0DbYx7eKJo-jTbicZQS21CPRkLVy9F0uxwfHoi3Wto7aHdpHnzdAX6XiTr3Oeuy-Tx-FKtWVs82D4kRrpAcg-17N9zLHiyBdNbYMg-J-iIX05Y6qVOXbgzt/s320/1467170650618.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I don't want my beautiful yarns to bring sorrow while they are being made and when they are worn.<br />
<br />
And now that we have walked through the valley, I still can't seem to pick up my needles. <br />
<br />
I think I'm just tired.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-S7txnCuEhbhYt9BEkYTgsyxfM9_7S3kKm_yTfUK4CGOJYO3_TObu9GuDVgZQuwsJzYfw68jXG6-15-uPdpOcfqIwvj2AGsW07ZpCDHgshdO4siHGJhDRhH4VKy1Ay3U0RVeMbJW5c1Q/s1600/IMG_20160709_083417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw-S7txnCuEhbhYt9BEkYTgsyxfM9_7S3kKm_yTfUK4CGOJYO3_TObu9GuDVgZQuwsJzYfw68jXG6-15-uPdpOcfqIwvj2AGsW07ZpCDHgshdO4siHGJhDRhH4VKy1Ay3U0RVeMbJW5c1Q/s320/IMG_20160709_083417.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I am looking forward to creating something again. <br />
<br />
But for now, I will rest.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_YPArLh_ZOdfPU7eOykCE8A6aW9IFdJgKs3e3YpJ91RzmIKCLq2ASb8DYrI_Ff1DXXNRzwMtSwUD6zY_heWv9yF2e0B6s1uLPWjGh6p0P4MK1cgbO7-0WAS7nzZCoIEZgjZmDLrvOGpe/s1600/IMG_20160709_083200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_YPArLh_ZOdfPU7eOykCE8A6aW9IFdJgKs3e3YpJ91RzmIKCLq2ASb8DYrI_Ff1DXXNRzwMtSwUD6zY_heWv9yF2e0B6s1uLPWjGh6p0P4MK1cgbO7-0WAS7nzZCoIEZgjZmDLrvOGpe/s320/IMG_20160709_083200.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="chapter-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;"><span class="text Eccl-3-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">To ever</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="chapter-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;"><span class="text Eccl-3-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">ything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;">Ecclesiastes 3</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="chapter-2" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="text Rev-21-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31055B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31055B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> and there was no longer any sea.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="text Rev-21-2" id="en-NIV-31056" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">2 </span>I saw the Holy City,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31056C" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31056C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31056D" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31056D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> prepared as a bride<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31056E" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31056E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> beautifully dressed for her husband.</span><span style="line-height: 24px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="text Rev-21-3" id="en-NIV-31057" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">3</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="text Rev-21-3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"> </span></span></span><span class="text Rev-21-3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31057F" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31057F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31057G" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31057G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace; line-height: 24px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="text Rev-21-4" id="en-NIV-31058" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><b><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">4 </span><span style="line-height: 24px;">‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes.</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31058H" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31058H" title="See cross-reference H">H</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="line-height: 24px;"> There will be no more death’</span><span style="font-size: 10px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 24px;">or mourning or crying or pain,</span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31058J" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31058J" title="See cross-reference J">J</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="line-height: 24px;"> for the old order of things has passed away.”</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Rev-21-5" id="en-NIV-31059" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><b>5</b> </span>He who was seated on the throne<span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-NIV-31059L" data-link="(<a href="#cen-NIV-31059L" title="See cross-reference L">L</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.625em; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span> said, “I am making everything new!”</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Rev-21-5" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Revelation 21</span></span></div>
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<br />Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5871700663286737020.post-9523090156742861982016-07-04T18:45:00.004+10:002016-07-04T18:45:49.796+10:00Cosy Cowls: Simple Sewing Project (easy for kids)Co-written by Princess :D<br />
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We fell in love with some gorgeous foxie flannelette recently. It was duly turned into PJs for various members of the family.<br />
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But I had leftovers. And I got to thinking how cosy that could be as a neck-warmer, particularly for a young lady I know who lives in chilly Canberra and who rides her bike to school.<br />
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I got on to my trusty Pinterest, and searched flannelette cowls. I wasn't sure whether flannelette would work for this project because it doesn't stretch.<br />
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I found some great projects, and in the end, made the design I found <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2014/01/diy-project-sherpa-lined-plaid-cowl.html#more-191649" target="_blank">here</a>, with one exception: I made the lining and the outer both the same size - 12" x 30". It worked beautifully. I also had enough fabric to make another smaller cowl for Princess 6" x 30", which was still a great size to keep her warm.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1Hg6h9xv4WZ2ndOZnyhZfz0BgtT8jqo24RctiZRQjj4IEUU8o6A4FgffBF1GxHH62IILiL8ZSpUQBFdhreCBMCOKaI0sISXGFh9yQGmNKOrau2wsD7vl4UPZFQaIqsmleq4dhLKy04pn/s1600/1467615860757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: xx-large; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1Hg6h9xv4WZ2ndOZnyhZfz0BgtT8jqo24RctiZRQjj4IEUU8o6A4FgffBF1GxHH62IILiL8ZSpUQBFdhreCBMCOKaI0sISXGFh9yQGmNKOrau2wsD7vl4UPZFQaIqsmleq4dhLKy04pn/s320/1467615860757.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can't see the cowl too well, but she sure looks cosy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm not too keen to give the cowl to her - I'd quite like to keep it! Very cosy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLndvvbBuiPeyy3pEAMwYpRfP71y1vS2ka7phQjMfq095FuFr3LmsyoXMiRoaLjLzZUt3vBET7huhSnnSKjZSK5A3KJlO_r78kJlaNh1QUnZCCNJYlxRxfYI_WPhrAz5RY7cXSHQzxJJRf/s1600/1467423829024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: xx-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLndvvbBuiPeyy3pEAMwYpRfP71y1vS2ka7phQjMfq095FuFr3LmsyoXMiRoaLjLzZUt3vBET7huhSnnSKjZSK5A3KJlO_r78kJlaNh1QUnZCCNJYlxRxfYI_WPhrAz5RY7cXSHQzxJJRf/s320/1467423829024.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
This is a good project for a beginner, because it's fairly simple cutting and construction. It involves rectangles and straight lines!<br />
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The last seam is sewn as a top-stitched seam, which is easy to manage, although it requires pinning because the fleece is a little tricky. I usually avoid pinning.<br />
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I was so pleased with how the cowl turned out, and fell in love with the fleece that we lined it with.<br />
One thing led to another, and then we were on a mission to make some cowls for our snow holiday coming up soon.<br />
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Fleece is perfect for the snow because it doesn't absorb moisture, which means you don't end up wearing heavy, cold wet clothes that have absorbed snow. <br />
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Warmth = happiness when you're out in the snow! <br />
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First, we had to go back to Spotlight to get some more of the coral nursery fleece, which is extra soft and fluffy. Warning: it sheds dreadfully - our house is currently covered in multi-coloured fluff; and it tends to split a little along the cut edges, so you have to handle it carefully, and make sure you have a decent seam allowance. Normal fleece is a little more resilient than this.<br />
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I had some nordic snowflake fleece set aside to make Husband and I some cheesy matching neck warmers for skiing (you can get away with all sorts of fun things at the snow!).<br />
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I could have made an ultra-cheesy matching set for the entire family, but the children had other ideas...<br />
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We looked up a few different tutorials, and worked out our measurements from there. <br />
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We made the fleece cowls a bit smaller, than the flannelette as the fleece will stretch, and we want the cowls to fit fairly snugly around our necks at the snow.<br />
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We also designed the cowls so that the contrast fabric creates a coloured border on the other side, as per the original tutorial that I used.<br />
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<b>Princess has provided the instructions for you below: </b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cut two pieces of fleece:</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">measurements</span></u></h3>
<span style="color: red; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>Adults:</u></b></span><br />
<u><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">width:</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;"><b>decorative:</b></span>12 inches</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;"><b>coral fleece:</b></span>14 inches</span><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">length:</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="color: red;">for both:</span> </b>24 inches</span><br />
<span style="color: orange; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="color: orange; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>Kids:</u></b></span><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">width:</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>decorative:</b></span>6 inches</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>coral fleece:</b></span>8 inches</span><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">length:</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: orange;"><b>for both:</b></span>24 inches</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We copied from a pattern but changed the measurements to fit better. These were <b style="color: red;"><u>our</u> </b>measurements.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm Justine's daugter and I chose a '<b><u><span style="color: red;">R</span><span style="color: orange;">A</span><span style="color: yellow;">I</span><span style="color: lime;">N</span><span style="color: blue;">B</span><span style="color: purple;">O</span><span style="color: magenta;">W</span></u></b><span style="color: magenta;"> </span>owls' fabric for me and my friends.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My brother Oliver chose doggy fabric and his favourite colour is <span style="color: orange;"><u style="color: orange; font-weight: bold;">ORANGE!</u><span style="font-size: xx-small;">there were orange doggies on it.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: orange;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: orange;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: orange;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span>
We are going to the snow soon so these will be good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">They make good presents too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">These neck warmers aren't just good for the snow they're good for cold mornings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Try making one with these instructions</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. we cut the fabric to the measurements written above.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcm7MJqRoyjixa6ciY3t9YzZXawEhNaCmBs6hEeo2wgxVuryUE105lqdS2oh4EGCZaOhpmQAIKzykTagrDczwIai4yS4BSOuHqIYN-o5LhnLgdBtY9PjDDoJbU26tifOrnbLR31_nw405-/s1600/1467613857071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcm7MJqRoyjixa6ciY3t9YzZXawEhNaCmBs6hEeo2wgxVuryUE105lqdS2oh4EGCZaOhpmQAIKzykTagrDczwIai4yS4BSOuHqIYN-o5LhnLgdBtY9PjDDoJbU26tifOrnbLR31_nw405-/s320/1467613857071.jpg" width="196" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2.line up the edges, right sides together and sew down one seam.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3.line up the edges for the other side - <i>mummy edit: you will be jiggling the narrower fabric across to do this - this will create the contrast border - </i>sew the second long seam. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4.turn it out the right way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">5.fold it in half lengthwise.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlPaOCnaCcL9HNW9AqXSkvVXUWiXq9tYvFQrPmbsunWPrmRRaHxVoEG1hKgxxXlg2ou4a3O41fbTCXSd2WkB4daa-LUKB3vB-R9XKJb4i0JZBfaCiRVaiS9h-TsihGuLKPzS_hxHdjP87h/s320/1467613569040.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fold in half lengthwise, to match the short un-sewn sides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">6. Line up the fabrics that match - you will be sewing a circle to create a tube... It's tricky to explain. See picture below: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzAJ9DVFhlM2JPDOcT2pFsQyx_VNDfIkWiBPnhwEOQjvo-QXFMeqDVcQagVCMirJD0Lioap8PLjgQR2_xdsvc9JISyhdebtHg6iuJMxeinVurZVnf4c_Q-IITYG1W6xeOLxYWqb4fO_vQ/s1600/1467613626421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzAJ9DVFhlM2JPDOcT2pFsQyx_VNDfIkWiBPnhwEOQjvo-QXFMeqDVcQagVCMirJD0Lioap8PLjgQR2_xdsvc9JISyhdebtHg6iuJMxeinVurZVnf4c_Q-IITYG1W6xeOLxYWqb4fO_vQ/s320/1467613626421.jpg" width="182" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">start sewing around the narrow tube creating by matching up the short ends</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJ04_6RPogapM94GX7QQGRWaLr5tIn1zS6BYvfXBjyj1yYABVxzvmpqAGiegyIi7j2yid3UDQ1oUHX_t3uMqPgMKd4qAmFZXkpUMihWmk4KWRzMnajoYNS5fVk7r7Pu5m0B2TBSLX9e69/s1600/1467615798703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: xx-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJ04_6RPogapM94GX7QQGRWaLr5tIn1zS6BYvfXBjyj1yYABVxzvmpqAGiegyIi7j2yid3UDQ1oUHX_t3uMqPgMKd4qAmFZXkpUMihWmk4KWRzMnajoYNS5fVk7r7Pu5m0B2TBSLX9e69/s320/1467615798703.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The </span><a href="http://www.purlsoho.com/create/2014/03/06/corinnes-thread-cozy-sewn-cowl/" style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;" target="_blank">Purl Soho </a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">blog has a much better description of this process, and of the finishing part: you have to finish sewing it up by hand.</span><br />
<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">HOPE YOU LIKE IT!</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1LYPOzk-dfLMmrRyZ6mf2oRSjucJ4NNTy3rdD3olbLcelXU-QDNjYRw948q9wbSP-WEQcLyrFLtMa2edFsHPwmJM0BX3o_e29rt_YVwOZDFgXf88tQ0NZnWbUjBkiBCSJ3jHtpxXFIua/s1600/1467615985190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1LYPOzk-dfLMmrRyZ6mf2oRSjucJ4NNTy3rdD3olbLcelXU-QDNjYRw948q9wbSP-WEQcLyrFLtMa2edFsHPwmJM0BX3o_e29rt_YVwOZDFgXf88tQ0NZnWbUjBkiBCSJ3jHtpxXFIua/s320/1467615985190.jpg" width="266" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">COSY COWLS!</span></div>
Justinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18075918055975114191noreply@blogger.com0