Saturday, December 18, 2010

CHRISTMAS FABRIC SALe !!!!!!!

I'M OFF TO THE FLOWER SHOP BUT I HAVE LEFT BEHIND A COUPLE OF ELVES THAT WILL BE HAPPY TO HELP YOU. LOL. DON'T TELL THEM I CALLED THE ELVES.
ALL CHRISTMAS FABRIC IS NOW ON SALE FOR 40% OFF. THERE ARE STILL SOME BEAUTIFUL PIECES LEFT SO FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING DONE AND WANT A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR YOURSELF. NOW IS THE TIME .
MARY ANNE

Friday, December 10, 2010

One tired Grandma

I had forgotten what it was like to experience the birth of babies. I am a new grandma and although it is exciting, I just realized how old I am. lol
Carter and Peyton are the most beautiful babies ever. There! I have joined the obnoxious grandparent club. I will try not to besiege you with to many pictures and bend your ear to much, but for now I am very excited.
Peyton, looks like a beautiful little girl, who may have red hair or at least some highlights. She has blue eyes for now but they tell me that could change. Carter, looks like a little man with beautiful blue eyes as well and looks like his daddy. Both babies are very alert and are very well behaved. Anyone who knows Sheena and her organizational skills knows that they wouldn't be any other way. lol.
I spent last night in the hospital with her and the babies and all those feedings and I needed to come home for a sleep.
Lakeridge hospital in Oshawa was an unbelievable experience. The nurses and support staff were just great and I think that makes for a wonderful time for new mothers. Cheers to them.
I will be back in the shop on Saturday after a much needed rest.
Mary Anne

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

FRILLSEEKER YARN NOW IN!!!!!!

FRILLSEEKER YARN IS NOW IN STOCK. I ONLY RECEIVED 15 BALLS AND IT IS SELLING ALREADY. THE ONDAS WILL BE BACK IN BY THE END OF NEXT WEEK ALTHOUGH I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH WE WILL RECEIVE OF THE ORDER

MARY ANNE

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Frillseeker yarns

Frillseeker yarns will begin shipping again next week. The original colours are still not back in stock but there are three new colours available and we hope to have them in the shop next week. The orders will be filled in sequence and I can only hope that they are not sold out when they reach my name. There is also a new Katia yarn that is on order and I hope that it will also arrive next week. Who knew that we would still be knitting funky scarves after all this time.
Most of you know that we are having twin grandchildren. They will arrive Dec. 8th if all goes well. If she eats to much spagetti at the hockey fundraiser tonight they may come earlier. Apparently there is not alot of room left and they are jockeying for space. I will be away from the shop for a few days but Sharon, Geri and Cecile will be there to help you.
Rug hookers will continue to meet on Wednesdays but only in the afternoon until the new year. The Rug Hookers Bible books are now in stock again as well as the videos from Gene Shepherd. I have been picking up new rug hooking books and magazines as I see them but they are in and out quickly so check regularly if you are looking for something specific.
M.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

No babies yet!

I have been patiently awaiting the arrival of the twins. Sheena has been looking after herself very well and apparently they won't be arriving until they are darn good and ready. Stress tests have been passed and they seem to be happy to stay where they are for now. I am nervous. There! I've said it. If all goes as planned we will have grandchildren next week.

We had a great day at hooking today. All projects are moving right along and I'm really impressed with the oriental rugs the ladies are doing.
Janice, I have to say that the miniature scenes have really caught my eye but I keep telling myself that I can't start another thing. I think I am going to take Barb Powers advice she gave me one time about quilting. Nobody says you have to make the whole quilt. You can buy the fabric make a block or two and get it out of your system and put the rest away. lol
I like that idea. I feel a new project coming on.

Stitchers meet on Thursday morning. We knit, stitch and sew and do whatever we darn well please in that group. Everyone is welcome.
See you Thursday.
M.

Monday, November 22, 2010

Square in a Square Class

Andjareenas hosted a wonderful "square in a square" class on Saturday with Brenda Allen. What a great day. All went well, which is not always the case. The ladies were delighted and all signed up for the options class in January. This is a very neat technique and is one of those things everyone should try. Fun was had by all and that really is the point isn't it.
Thanks to Brenda for being such a delightful teacher and fun to be around.
Mary Anne

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Malibrigo Sock now in

Malibrigo Sock Yarn is now in stock. Beautiful, merino, kettle dyed and we decided today it was much to nice for socks. I wouldn't mind a sweater out of it or at the very least a very nice scarf.
There have been new arrivals of fabric, yarns and stitchery supplies almost on a daily basis but I find it hard to get motivated for the holidays somedays because the weather has been absolutely amazing. If we can just through the month of November with no snow I'm sure the winter won't seem as long. One customer told me today that "we are going to pay for this". Something about the groundhogs. lol
"Baby Alert"
Our little girl is up to 4.7lbs. and the boy is 5.8. The doctor is keeping a close watch on Sheena but I'm wondering if I'm going to be a Grandma sooner than I expected.

Mary Anne

Friday, November 12, 2010

KNITTER ALERT!!!!!!

Just a note to let you knitters know that I now have the 9" circular needles in for socks. They are already starting to sell so I thought I should let you know before Tuesdays knitting group.
There are a few new colours in stock of the On Your Toes sock yarn and there are 10 colours of the Malibrigo Sock Yarn on its way. Hope it's here for Tuesday.
I have part of the sleeve done on the babys sweater so I figured I could maybe knit socks. lol

Mary Anne

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Christmas at Presquile

I had the opportunity to check out Christmas at Presquile this Sunday past, and I encourage all of you to make the trek out this week. They will be open again on Wednesday, then Saturday and Sunday. The tearoom was my first stop where Mae served me their lovely rum cake and coffee. One piece of cake and you can still drive, two and you may not pass a breathalizer.
There is something for everyone and for every price range inside. Beauitful silk scarves from the county, paper toile pictures, knitting, felting and lots of candy and canned goods. I picked up a couple of cut little plaques for the babies rooms as well as some nice fresh catnip for Gilmour. He has been having a love affair with it ever since. It was for his Christmas stocking but I thought he needed and lift.
I also managed to take in the Quilt display at the Salem Church on Sunday. They had a wonderful selection of quilts and wallhangings. It is a lovely old church that I have passed numerous times on my way to shows but had never been inside.
We missed Janice today at knitting but understand that those grandchildren come first . Hope the garage cleaning went well, although it was such a nice day I would have been inclined to leave it till spring.
M.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Sheenas Shower

A great day was had by all. The older generation(omg I just called myself the older generation) had a great time visiting while I noticed most of the younger generation had been to a few Halloween parties the night before and were not at the top of their game. I wish I had their energy. Thanks Hailey for staying so long when you hadn't been to bed yet. lol . Lindsey for taking all the pictures and Jennie for helping Sheena unwrap her gifts. Sharon, Sharon and Bev ( I will get even at knitting) and the twisted sisters and everyone for all their help. Sheena was overwhelmed with your generosity. Thank you so much. These babies are much loved already.
Diane D. had left me a bag of sock yarn and although I thought I had passed the remnants all along, I discovered little balls of yarn on the weekend and have begun knitting "leftover socks". I figure if I make the toes and heels out of one colour and the rest of the socks with the remaining balls in similiar colours I could have myself several new pairs of socks this winter. THanks Diane. I know once you knit a colour you're done with it but you will be happy to know I'm using it up. That's what happens at 4 a.m. when you've left your grandchilds sweater at the shop and you need some knitting.
Hope to see all of you out to knitting on Tuesday afternoon. The snow is going to fly soon and maybe I should be making myself a pair of "hot dog mittens".
M.

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Square in a Square Class

Brenda Allen will be teaching a "Square in a Square" class on November 20th from 10 a.m.to 3 p.m. in the shop. Class fee is $50.00 including the Technique Ruler. Brenda is a acreddited Jody Burrows Square in a Square Teacher.

We look forward to having Brenda teach this class in the shop. Spaces are filling up quickly so if you are interested please call the shop and book your spot. 613-394-4990

Mary Anne

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Sheenas good!

What a day! As promised here is the update from the hospital. Sheena is fine and the twins are moving like crazy. She is home from the hospital and everything checked out. The technician was going crazy Sheena said when she was watching them move. She was really excited about how great they looked. Sheena on the other hand was in a little discomfort. I think they are jockying for position and that can be uncomfortable with one never mind two. She has carpal tunnel in her arms? And her fingertips are a bit numb. I dont understand what that is all about but they are happy with her at the hospital. She is home resting and trying to get comfortable and when asked whether hse was going to work tomorrow she said " well, I only have two days left". I'm sure her fellow workers will be walking on eggs. It makes me nervous and I'm 75 miles away.
The cribs are going together this weekend for sure and the car seats are going in the van. I told her to get ready, but who listens to their Mother. I'm always right! lol

Mary Anne

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

more new arrivals

For the felters out there. I have had a huge selection of Rejuvenation by Kertzer that has just arrived. This 100% wool felts beautifully and is available in several colours. Also new is Montage, a bulky weight yarn. There are some beautiful colours and also some great patterns to accompany it.
Quilters, keep your eyes posted for the new arrival of fabrics. There are some great Buggy Barn prints on their way and I hope to have them anytime now. I will let you know as soon as they hit the door.
It is a very busy place on Wednesdays at Andjareenas with the rug hookers meeting all day so if our parking lot looks a little crazy, do not be afraid, just come on in. They are a friendly bunch and will welcome you into the back room to admire their work but to also look at the fabric. lol
Stitchers meet Thursday mornings. Feel free to drop in for help or just for moral support. See you.

M.

New Arrivals

Thanksgiving is over and what a day it was. We ate until we couldn't move and then, true to form, we were starving later. I find that so funny. Travis was almost sick he was so stuffed but managed to eat again. My Mom cooked the turkey, dressing and desert and she let me do the vegetables this year. lol. My Mom is 80 (she'll kill me for that) and she's in charge of all special holidays. She also held dinner for 11 of us on Tuesday night ( after working all day in the flower shop) and a good time was had by all.
When asked when she would retire my sister said" I can't until my Mom does". Hah!
New Arrivals.
Knitters. You no sooner left the building than 18 boxes of yarn came through the back door. Thanks to Pauline for helping us unpack and organize it all. True to form some of the order didn't come that people have been waiting for. I will be on the phone first think this morning to find out where it is. grrrr
I've had a huge selection of red and whites and also some tone on tone creams come in. Approximately 25 bolts and it's going fast.
Our traditional rug hooking classes start today (Wednesday) and I am please to say that the Oriental Class for the afternoon is full and that the open class for the morning has 6 people in it. Thanks to our wonderful teacher Janice Daniels we have many happy hookers!
Off to work.
M.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

GET KNITTING!

THOSE OF YOU WHO KNOW ME WELL, KNOW THAT SHEENA IS HAVING TWINS AND IT REALLY COULD BE ANYTIME. SHE IS MEASURING AT 36 WEEKS SO THE TIME IS COMING QUICKLY. I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT WHEN SHE WALKED BY A LITTLE HAT AND SWEATER SAMPLE IN THE KNITTING ROOM AND CASUALLY SAID "ISN'T THAT CUTE"? GREAT!
OUT COME THE KNITTING NEEDLES AND I'M FRANTICALLY THINKING CAN I REALLY GET TWO OF THEM DONE IN A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME? PAULINE, WHO TURNS OUT SOMETHING EVERY FEW DAYS ASSURES ME THAT I CAN AND JANICE JUST LAUGHS. I'M STARTING TOMORROW. PRAY FOR ME.
I AM EXPECTING SEVERAL YARN ORDERS BUT TRUE TO FORM THEY WILL PROBABLY ARRIVE THE DAY AFTER THE KNITTERS GROUP MEETS. I WILL POST IT TO THE BLOG WITH DETAILS AS SOON AS THE ORDERS ARRIVE.
LOTS OF NEW SHOPPERS HAVE BEEN IN SINCE THE 401 RUN HAS STARTED. WE DO QUITE A BIT OF ADVERTISING AND TO BE HONEST I THINK THIS TYPE OF THING BRINGS MORE PEOPLE INTO THE SHOP REPEATEDLY THAN ANY PAPER ADVERTISING. IT'S NICE TO MEET NEW PEOPLE FROM OTHER TOWNS AND FIND OUT WHAT SHOPS ARE DOING IN THEIR AREA. LISTEN TO YOUR CUSTOMERS ! BEST ADVICE I CAN GIVE.
CHRISTMAS IS COMING AND WE HAVE A NICE SELECTION OF CHRISTMAS FABRICS IN STOCK SO HURRY IN AS THE SUPPLIES DON'T LAST AND I FIND THAT ALOT OF THE WHOLESALERS DON'T STOCK AS MUCH AS THEY USED TO.
I WILL BE AT THE FALL FLING(I CAN'T REMEMBER IF I TOLD YOU THIS) AT ST THOMAS'S CHURCH IN BELLEVILLE ON THURSDAY. I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE DAY OUT. I FIGURE I CAN FINISH SMOCKING THE BABY DRESS WHILE I'M THERE. LOL
UFO FRIDAYS ARE BACK IN FULL FORCE SO DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP IF YOU ARE INTERESTED. SPACE CAN BE LIMITED AT TIMES SO CALL AHEAD.
CECILE IS DEVELOPING A REFRESHER SEWING COURSE FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE BEEN AWAY FROM SEWING FOR AWHILE. SHE IS TEACHING SOME HOME DEC IE" NAPKINGS, PILLOW CASES, PLACEMATS ETC. IT IS A GREAT WAY TO LEARN A FEW NEW TIPS AND REFRESH SOME OLD SKILLS.
HOOKERS MEET WEDNESDAYS. SEE YOU THERE.

MARY ANNE

Sunday, October 3, 2010

FIRST WEEKEND OF THE QUILT RUN

WELL, WE'RE THROUGH THE FIRST WEEKEND OF THE 401 QUILT RUN AND I THINK I HAVE ALL THE RULES DOWN STRAIGHT AND A BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HELPED. CUSTOMERS WHO PLAYED THE GAME BEFORE AND POINTED OUT THINGS WE NEEDED TO KNOW WITHOUT BEING UNKIND. THANKS FOR YOU HELP. LOL
ANDJAREENAS, WILL BE RUNNING DAILY SPECIALS AS WELL AS A HUGE SELECTION OF REMNANTS AT $5.99 METER. THESE REMNANT PIECES ARE END OF THE BOLT AND MEASURE UP TO A METER AND A HALF SO IT IS A VERY GOOD DEAL. THERE IS ALSO THE ODD 108" PIECE OF BACKING FABRIC THROWN IN FOR GOOD MEASURE.
KNITTERS. THERE IS A LARGE SELECTION OF PAST ISSUES OF VOGUE, FAMILY CIRCLE, PHILDAR AND KNITTERS MAGAZINES THAT WE ARE CLEARING OUT FOR $2.00 EACH. I AM COMING UP ON MY YEAR END AND WOULD LIKE A LITTLE LESS TO COUNT. FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE KNITTING AND FELTING, I HAVE SOME SKEINS OF 3 PLY PERSIAN 100% WOOL THAT I WILL BE CLEARING FOR $1.99 SKEIN. THIS FELTS BEAUTIFULLY AND WAS BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION BY ONE OF MY CUSTOMERS THAT USES IT FOR FELTING. WE COUNT ON OUR CUSTOMERS TO KEEP US ON OUR TOES. THANKS.
QUILTERS. THERE WILL BE THE SAME DEAL ON SOME PAST ISSUES OF THE AUSTRALIAN QUILTING MAGAZINES THAT I HAVE IN STOCK.
RUG HOOKERS REMEMBER THAT WE WILL BE STARTING THE ORIENTAL RUG CLASS THE WEDNESDAY FOLLOWING THANKSGIVING. FOR BEGINNER RUG HOOKERS, YOU MAY JOIN IN THE OPEN CLASS ON WEDNESDAY MORNING. SOME OF THIS CLASS WILL BE LEARNING ORIENTALS, BUT THIS IS AN OPEN CLASS AND THERE WILL BE LOTS MORE GOING ON.
STITCHERS, I WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE ON THURSDAY THE 7TH OF OCTOBER.
I WILL BE AT THE FALL FLING AT ST. THOMAS'S CHURCH IN BELLEVILLE WITH THE EMBROIDERY GUILD THERE. I ENCOURAGE ANYONE INTERESTED IN STITCHING TO CHECK THE GROUP OUT. THERE ARE PLENTY OF TALENTED WOMEN THERE AND LOTS OF TEACHING GOING ON.
A BIG WELCOME BACK TO TINY AND PHYLLIS. I THINK WE SHOULD ALL JOURNEY TO THE EAST COAST WITH THEM NEXT YEAR FOR THE RUG HOOKING SCHOOL.
I WONDER IF THE COAST IS READY FOR US? LOL
HAVE A GREAT WEEK
MARY ANNE

Friday, October 1, 2010

401 QUILT RUN

DAY ONE OF THE 401 QUILT RUN AND ALL IS WELL. IT TOOK US A FEW CUSTOMERS UNTIL WE LEARNED HOW TO PLAY THE GAME AND TO GET ALL OUR INFORMATION IN ORDER BUT WE ARE READY FOR A NEW DAY. QUILTERS FOR ALL OVER THE AREA WERE OUT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL FALL DAY TO SHOP AND AQUAINT THEMSELVES WITH THE SHOPS IN THE AREA. WE MET LOTS OF "NEW TO THE AREA" LADIES TODAY THAT THOUGHT THIS WAS A WONDERFUL WAY FOR THEM TO FIND ALL THE SHOPS THAT SELL JUST WHAT THEY WANT. I COULDN'T AGREE MORE. BUSINESSES DO LOTS OF ADVERTISING NOT KNOWING IF ANYONE THAT WE REALLY WANT TO READ OR SEE IT, ACTUALLY DOES. WITH THE 401 RUN WE KNOW THAT THE LADIES THAT ARE DOING IT ARE THE ONES WE WANT AND NEED TO MEET. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

I AM IMPATIENTLY WAITING FOR A YARN SHIPMENT TO ARRIVE FOR OUR TUESDAY AFTERNOON KNITTING GROUP. AFTER BEING IN BUSINESS FOR 25 YEARS AT THIS LOCATION I FIND IT A BIT UNNERVING THAT SUPPLIERS NO LONGER SEEM TO CARRY OR WAREHOUSE STOCK. IT SEEMS TO BE A SIGN OF THE TIMES BUT THERE IS ALWAYS SOMEONE THAT IS OUT OF STOCK OF THE ONE THING YOU NEED IN THE STORE. PATIENCE IS A VIRTURE. ONE I DON'T ALWAYS HAVE.
HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL OUT TO HOOKING AND KNITTING NEXT WEEK
M.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

A GOOD DAY WAS HAD BY ALL

GERI, LINDA AND I TOOK OFF AT 8:30 THIS A.M. FOR SIMCOE COUNTY MUSEUM FOR THE QUILT, RUG HOOKING, SPRINNING, WEAVING AND KNITTING SHOW. WHAT A GREAT MUSEUM TO VISIT. THE LOCAL CHURCH SERVED HOME MADE PIES OF ALL DESCRIPTION AND THE MEN WERE BUSY BARBEQUING ON THE GROUNDS OUTSIDE.
I MET SHEILA KLUGESCHEID, FROM PORT LORING AND FELL IN LOVE WITH A RUG HOOKING KIT THAT I COULDN'T LEAVE BEHIND. WHO BUYS MORE RETAIL THAN STORE OWNERS? A BIG HELLO GOES OUT TO JANICE FROM SHEILA.
I PICKED UP SOME GREAT HAND DYED SOCK YARN THAT I KNOW WILL LOOK GREAT WHEN KNIT UP AND IT IS FOR ME, OF COURSE. NO MORE WASTING MY LABOUR ON THE REST OF THEM THEY CAN BUY TUBE SOCKS UNTIL THEY APPRECIATE ME.
THE STITCHERY GUILD HAD A LOVELY DISPLAY OF THEIR PROJECTS AND I ENTERED A DRAW FOR A BEAUTIFUL CROSS STITCHED QUILT, A HARDANGER ANGEL AND A DRUMMER BOY FRAMED CROSS STITCH. KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED.
THE SPINNERS WERE THERE AND I GOT A FEW TIPS FOR MY SPINNING. IT'S A GREAT PASTIME. THE WEAVERS HAD PRODUCED AN AMAZING SELECTION OF GOODS.
THERE WAS A TWO WOMEN DOING BOBBIN LACE. IT IS THE MOST AMAZING THING TO WATCH THE PATTERN DEVELOP . WHAT AN ART. THE WOMAN MAKING THE LACE ASSURED ME THAT IT WAS NOT ALL THAT DIFFICULT. RIGHT!
WITH LINDA'S HELP WE MADE IT HOME.
HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GREAT WEEKEND. BACK TO THE GRIND ON MONDAY
MARY ANNE

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Helmet liners have been shipped

THE HELMET LINERS WERE SHIPPED THIS WEEK. ROSEMARY TELLS ME THAT WHEN THE COURIER SAW THE 18 BOXES HE WENT PALE, BUT QUICKLY RECOVERED WHEN HE REALIZED HOW LIGHT THEY WERE. THANKS AGAIN TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED. FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO DID NOT GET YOUR HELMET LIENRS IN IN TIME PLEASE DONATE THEM TO A COATS FOR KIDS DRIVE OR IF YOU HAVE A SQUADRON THAT SOMEONE YOU LOVE IS ASSOCIATED WITH PERHAPS YOU CAN GIVE THEM TO THE SERVICE THAT WAY. APPARENTLY THE LINES ARE MOVING IN OTTAWA AND THEY HAVE 4000 BOXES TO PACK AND THAT TAKES TIME HENCE THE SEPTEMBER 1ST DEADLINE.

NEW IN THIS WEEK, FRILL SEEKER YARN. THIS IS A VERIGATED YARN THAT LOOKS MUCH LIKE NETTING AND KNITS INTO A FRILLY SCARF FOR THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE FOR CHRISTMAS. I'VE BEEN WORKING ON MY SCARF TODAY IN BETWEEN CUSTOMERS AND IT'S TURNING OUT WELL. IT TOOK ME A LITTLE WHILE TO GET ON TO IT BUT FRANNY STOPPED IN AND HELPED AND IT IS WORKING UP QUITE QUICKLY
FOR $14.99 YOU CAN KNIT A GIFT FOR SOMEONE FOR CHRISTMAS.

I WILL BE TEACHING A SMOCKING CLASS ON THURSDAYS FOR ANY OF YOU INTERESTED IN DROPPING IN AND LEARNING THE TECHNIQUE. WE HAVE A DROP IN GROUP OF STITCHERS AND I THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE A GOOD TIME TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW. IF YOU ARE NOT INTERESTED IN SMOCKING JUST DROP IN AND STITCH. BRING ANY PROJECT YOU ARE WORKING ON WITH YOU.
HOPE ALL OF YOU HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND AND GET DOWN TO THE SCOTTISH IRISH FESTIVAL ON THIS WEEKEND IN TRENTON. I'M GOING TOMORROW MORNING TO CHECK OUT THE PIPES.

MARY ANNE

Saturday, September 4, 2010

We have a count

Rosemary called this afternoon to let me know there was approximately 1600 helmet liners turned in. There are another 500 coming from the girls in B.C. so an approximate total of 2100. We didn't really get started on this project until February of this year and I am amazed at the numbers to be quite honest.
You're a saint Rosemary, as you pack all these liners for pick up and sew in the loose ends. THanks to Alex for smoothing them all out for you. WE are all so glad his eye surgery went well.
Thanks again ladies.
Mary Anne

Friday, September 3, 2010

Helmet liners have been picked up!

To all of you who participated and knit helmet liners for the troops we thank you. The liners have all been picked up and are being prepared for shipment. For those of you who did not finish in time I suggest a donation of your helmet liner to the firefighters campaign that they run every year or any other needy cause.
THanks again to all our customers as well as
Crop Circles, Soper Creek Variety, Happenstance Books, Wool N Things ,
Janie H. Knits, Needle in a Haystack, Wool Queen, Robins Nest,Kraft
Village, The Knitting Nimrod , Edith Petersons group from B.C., the
Telephone Pioneers.
If I have left anyone out I apologize but know in your hearts that you
have supported a great cause.
Mary Anne

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Another Great Day.........

We had another successful Hook In on Friday and although some of you were unable to attend I have another scheduled for the end of September.
I hope Janice and hubby are enjoying their holiday but we all miss seeing you here at the shop . It will interest you to know that we are all working hard to complete our present projects so we can give full attention to our Oriental Rug in the fall. I have Indira's ballerina bag(if you're reading this) and will post a picture if I can figure out how to do it again. Janice has dyed some beautiful colours of wool for the fall, so drop in and have a look around. The September/October isse of Rug Hooking magazine is in the store now as well as The Celebration of Hand-Hooked Rugs XX 20th anniversary edition. They're going fast so let me know if you want one held.
Thanks to Bad Betty for the Intelligencer article. Cliff says he's coming to hang out with you and Barb 'cause you're good Karma.
I was delighted to see Barb Powers in for hooking. Barb has been to Africa with the church and she shared her pictures of life there. She looked like she was having the time of her life and despite having very little they looked like pretty happy kids in the pictures. I think all of us could take a lesson from that. At the end of the day it's just stuff, people are what's really important and we all lose site of that at one time or another.
Fall is on its way. Even though we hate to see summer end, the good news that all the new stuff arrives in the fall. The Christmas fabric has been rolling in steadily and yarns keep coming one box at a time. If you're thinking of knitting for Christmas, now is the time to start.
Our Tuesday afternoon knitting group has been busy all summer long, but for those of you who are interested or need a little help with a pattern, drop in from 1-3 on Tuesday. Please let us know if you are coming so that we can set up extra chairs.
For beginner quilters or those of you who want some quick projects, Cecile is teaching on Mondays and some Saturdays in the fall, so drop in and pick up a schedule. We have some lovely new fabrics arriving this fall. Some of the cottons are ideal for dressmaking. They are not just quilting fabrics anymore. If there is something you would like in the way of fashion fabrics please let us know as most of our quilting companies also have a fashion fabric line. We still have bamboo/cotton batt, 120" wide for $14.99 meter.
For the stitchers we have a good selection of aida cloths and linens as well as Mill Hill Beads and Mill Hill Crystal Treasures. There is Xmas Red and Green 14 count aida in stock for those of you looking to do ornaments or projects for Christmas. The silver, gold, cream and white perforated paper is back in stock now.
I would like to leave you with one thing that I read on the sign at one of our local Churches.
Character is doing the right thing when no one is looking.
Have a great weekend!
M.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Sock yarn

For those of you waiting for sock yarn there were six new colours of Jawoll Magic in today and two new colours of the Bambus. The nights are cooling down and before you know it the holiday season will be here so if you are knitting socks for Christmas now is the time. New arrivals are happening daily.
The Christmas fabric has been shipped and should be in the shop by the first of the week. I can hardly wait. With the twins coming in December I think I'm going to have to get really organized if I want my season to go well. I am very excited about the Christmas fabrics that I have chosen this year and I will announce it on the blog when the are actually in the shop.
I've just had a shipment of embroidery supplies arrive as well. Lots of new beads and threads to stitch with for the fall. Any Red Hat ladies out there interested in some Red Hat stitchery kits they will be on sale for half price.
This is the last week for the half price sale on Wonderfil thread so if you are planning some embroidery projects for the fall be sure to take advantage of the sale by Saturday at 4 p.m.
Cecile has been getting some classes ready for the fall and there are lots of great one day classes coming up. We know that women are busy and that the six and eight week classes are difficult to commit to so come and attend a one day class and go home and sew, sew, sew.
Janice will be teaching Oriental Rug hooking in October so sign up soon as the spaces are filling up quickly. There is also a sample on hand at the shop for Beginner Rug hooking and the morning class will be done as the sample and open. ie: if you already hook and want to work on another project Janice will be happy to assist you.
For those of you participating in Project Helmet Liner, please be sure to get your helmets in for the September 1st deadline. A big thank you to Rosemary and David for picking up all the helmet liners and delivering them.
Mary Anne

THE TWINS!

For those of you who have been waiting to hear, Sheena is having a boy and a girl. The perfect family. She's still grinning.
M.

Friday, August 6, 2010

THE YARN IS HERE!!!!!

For those of you who have been waiting for yarn it is now in. Beautiful colours in Jawoll Magic sock yarn and several new colours in Splash.
M

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Another Hook In Success

Although we had fewer numbers this month, due to holidays and other commitments, I declare our "Last Friday of the Month Hook In", a huge success. When you have fewer numbers you are able to interact a little more with some of the people you are unable to meet when the place is full and we had lots of laughs on Friday.
Several new shipments of fabric have arrived as well as the 108" bamboo batting at $14.99 a meter. As we enter the month of August, I expect that we will have shipments arriving almost daily. It has been a fairly busy summer surprisingly enough. The hot weather doesn't always work in our favour but I think it's been so extreme that people are staying inside alot with the air conditioner for company and are working on projects for the holiday season. Did I say that?
For those of you who know Sheena, she and Kurt have arrived in Florida for a vacation with Kurt's family and it is 36 degrees today. I'm going to stop complaining right away. Way to hot for me.
I hope all of you are having a great long weekend and for you knitters, I'll see you on Tuesday afternoon.
Mary Anne

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

We have air!

For those of you who don't like to shop in this heat, we have air. Come in and shop in comfort, sit down and have a look through our book and shop till you drop. lol
Bad Betty is away and we miss you, so if you are ready this post we can't wait for your return. Knitters was very quiet yesterday as we were all concenctrating on our project. It was nice to see Connie and Josie out and all the regulars. I think by next week most of us will rise to the challenge and start a pair of toe up socks.
Rug hooking Wednesday afternoon and don't forget our Hook In Friday from 9:30-3:30.
A little bird named Raymond, told Cliff, that Barb Powers is back from Africa. Hope to see you at the Hook In with an update on your trip.
There is a new selection of dyed wools for hooking now in the shop for those of you who are looking. For those of you who are interested in doing wet felting we have lots of fibre at very reasonable prices. I might do some myself after having a new customer in yesterday. Funny how you become excited about a product all over again.
On a personal note. For those of you who know Sheena is having twins, the babies are moving and I'm getting a little more excited each day.
Hope you're all having a great summer.
Mary Anne

Friday, July 23, 2010

Electric quilt 7

Electric Quilt 7 is now in the store. price is $189.95 for anyone interested. The Wonderfil thread for machine embroidery and machine quilting is now on half price. I have the Tuitti, Accent and Rayon in stock right now but going fast.
Our button exchange is in and all the great new buttons for fall are out. There are some interesting buttons for those of you who do Scrapbooking. It almost gets me in the mood to do some Scrapbooking myself.
The Line Dancing Girls were in this afternoon and purchased some of the cowboy boot buttons and are going to make pewter earings. It never ends. I always things to myself "pay attention there'll be a test on this in the morning". lol . For those of you wh are waiting for the Prym replacement lead, we now have it in stock and in colours as well.
There are several new quilting books that have just arrived for the "Art Quilter" out there.
For those of you who are interested we are having our Monthly hook In a week from today on Friday from 10-3, there are still some spaces left and we do have airconditioning.
Have a great weekend.
Mary Anne

Monday, July 19, 2010

Another beautiful day

What a great day. I don't remember a summer when we used the pool so much. With all this hot weather it is definately the answer at the end of the day.
Our Wonderfil machine embroidery thread is now on half price. I am looking at a new line and in order to make room we need to move out the old and bring in the new.
I hope to see some of our Christmas Fabric and new fall yarns arriving shortly. The snow will fly before we know it and I know some of our groups are starting their Christmas projects already. I will be very busy this Christmas with twins so I need to take some of my own advice and get started.
Our Knitters group are still meeting on Tuesday afternoons, Hookers on Wednesday afternoons and Stitchers on Thursday morning. You would be quite surprised at what gets accomplished in these groups so drop in and check us out.
I have the Electric Quilt 7 cds on the way for anyone who is interested.
I will let you know via the blog as soon as they are in.


Off to the barbecue.
M.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

The Ice is In!!!!

For those of you who know me well you know that Travis has been playing hockey for most of his 20 years. Well, this is one of the first summers that we haven't had to travel to Jr. Camps or hockey schools as he is going to College this year and going back to his team of last year the Deseronto Storm. Well, the ice is in and the rookie camp had been going well and of course Travis was in his element back on skates. New of the day was, broken nose and four stitches from a high stick. I haven't seem him yet today but I am sure that the black eyes will follow. I am surprized that he hasn't had a facial injury before now. So, when you see the flower delivery guy coming to your door, he hasn't been in a bar fight but a hockey altercation.
lol
M.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

For the Rug Hooking Girls

Just a note for our Wednesday hookers. Sassy has been in an accident in the U.S. She should be home in Belleville when you read this. Tina let me know today. According to reports I have read online she and her daughter are okay. The car is a write off.
M.

Baby it's hot outside..........

What a week! If we're not complaining about the weather I guess we're just not satisfied. Wow is it hot! Geri and I made it through the Prince Edward County Show thanks to the air but my goodness it is hot outside but thank goodness we have AIR! I slip from one spot to the next but only to get back into the air. I'm not sure it is a good thing because your body never warms up but for now I'm going for the air conditioning. I'll suffer the consequences later.
Cecile has started teaching on Saturdays and well as Mondays for those of you who can't make it to the weekday classes. Drop in and check out some of her classes for the summer. She has done some quick and easy quilt classes for beginners and for those of you who just want to freshen up your skills.
We carry Wonderfil thread in the shop and are making room for a new line of embroidery thread. For those of you who are looking for a special, we will have the Wonderfil on sale July 23,24 and 25th for half price. This applies only to the Embroidery thread.
Have a great rest of the week.
M.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Prince Edward County Quilt Show

Geri and I are off to the quilt show again this morning. I had forgotten how tiring these things can be. Standing on cement is a killer for a long period of time but thankfully we remembered to bring our piece of rubber flooring along with us and that has saved both of us.
I haven't had time to go in and even look at the show the crowds were so large yesterday. The lineup was out the door and the crowd in the vendors mall was unbelievable . I was a little skeptical how many would attend in this heat but they came out in droves and the support is unbelievable.
These girls know how to run a quilt show. They can't do enough for the Vendors, from feeding us to making sure we have enough water to drink to assisting in booths if necessary. I didn't speak to one unhappy vendor.
HOpe to see you at the show.
M.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Prince Edward County Quilt Show

This is the weekend we have all been waiting for. Prince Edward County are holding their quilt show at the Arena in Picton. We will be there both
Saturday and Sunday and hope to see some of you there.
I spent Thursday afternoon packing in that heat and I can tell you it was an effort. Hopefullly it cools off before the weekend. The Vendors have air conditioning so you can shop till you drop. lol
Nice to see Fran out to Thursday stitching even if it was just for a visit.
I can understand the breathing issue in this weather as I am experiencing some difficulty myself.
Hope to see you all at the show.
Mary Anne

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Off to the County

Cliff and I are off to the County for a day of shopping. There is a red barn on White Church road? It is near the cement plant. If you are coming from Trenton you go through Picton past the arena and hospital and it is on the left. I know where I am going but forget the name of the road.
I'm sure I will be able to find it. Apparently the weekend of the 17th they are having something like a Pioneer day. Lots of artisans. So, in case I can't make it I am going for my look today. Then off to Deseronto to some kind of show that is supposed to be on in that area. In short, I am escaping for the day. To much work and to much 20 year old are more than I can bear. lol. I need the break.
I've been out in my garden and something is eating my marigolds. I stirred the soil up a little bit hoping to expose the varmits but they're quick. Off to the pool this afternoon and hopefully don't get to burnt.
My knitting is sitting next to me as I type, begging to be finished.
Maybe tonight and I will surprise you all at knitting on Tuesday.

Have a great day you guys. Enjoy it. The laundry, dishes and housework will wait. The skies are blue and it's a gorgeous day. Good for the soul
M.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

The weekend...........

Hope all of you are taking the time and enjoying this beautiful weekend. I am stuck inside in the air conditioning at this point but I look forward to spending a little time in the pool later on. Don't forget your sunscreen this weekend or you could be in real trouble.
We will be at the Prince Edward County Quilt show this coming weekend and hopefully it won't be to hot but I do hope the weather is nice for the quilters. I can't wait to see you all there.
Geri and I will be taking a good selection of quilting fabrics as well as our rug hooking supplies for those of you staying at cottages. I am working on some kits as I type and hope to have them ready to take with me. I will bring along hooks and cutters and blades as well.
There will also be a selection of yarns that you can hook or knit with. The Mango Moon and the Noro to name a few. I love working with the Noro boucle in the Deanne Fitzpatrick piece that I am doing.It works up quickly and gives another texture to the piece.
If there is anything that you want me to take to the show, that you are unable to get into the shop and get, please let me know by email and I will bring it if I have it in the shop.
Thanks to Phyllis for bringing Angel food cake and strawberries to our hooking day. I'm sure my Dr. would approve. The deserts are killing me.
That and the cheese. I am cheese free for a month now. Travis asked his Dad if I was going to buy them food. I have found that since I've been on the diet I only buy what I can eat. I broke down, and to their surprize I bought them some junk last night. They're in heaven. The dog loves me too.
He gets a nice walk at the end of every day (to help with my exercize)
but I notice by the time I get back to the house he's draggin tail and can't wait to get inside to collapse on the couch in the air conditioning.
Hope to see all of you at knitting on Tuesday.
M.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Chicken and Fish

I remember years ago one of my fellow parishioners telling me that she was back on a diet."How's it going" I asked. "Fine she says but my mother (who lived with them) is walking around muttering "chicken and fish, chicken and fish".
This week I celebrated my 53rd birthday and received the news that my cholesterol was through the roof and I needed to do soemthing about it. Lettuce and water was the first suggestion. Ha, Ha. My doctor has a sick sense of humour. With the help of my friends I have embarked on healthy living and I've got to tell you it's a drag. No more chocolate ( at least temporatily) lay off the desserts (hence the fruit and lack of birthday cake) wah, but I have to tell you that things are looking up and I am sleeping better and feeling better than I have felt in a long time and it's not that difficult. Yes, I have to have some self control but I think I have it in me. For those of you thinking on embarking on this course my suggestion is do it. You'll feel better in the long run and cheat only when really necessary.
Enough of that.
Friday was our monthly hook in and we had a blast. Not as many people out for the summer but it was well attended and we even had Elaine drop in and vist us from Thunder Bay. What a treat! I'm feeling intimidated. Although I got off to a great start my piece has alot of grass and alot of sky and I don't feel like I'm making headway. I drew in some flowers(out of boredom) and they will look nice in the landscape of my rug.
We missed you Janice.Although you were unable to attend we missed you and hope your Hubbys' retirement party went off well.
Pam challenged us to a trading card exchange with a sample of the trading cards she had made. I'm not sure how many picked up the challenge but remember they are small and you will be able to finish them. Janice had done some lovely ones at our Wednesday hook in and added beads and fancy threads and I could see myself challenged (God help me I think I'm taking something else on). The day was full of laughs and Betty explained what "clean up in aisle four" meant. lol
Barb Powers is off to Africa with St. Peters and they are buying medications to take with them that are hard to get there so I thought it only fitting to give the money we had collected so she can hand it over to the people in charge of shopping for medications. A worthwhile endeavor. Barb, have a great time in Africa. I know it's not a conventional holiday but you're doing a great thing.
We are quickly coming up on the Prince Edward County quilt show on the 11th and 12th of July and the girls and I are working hard to get ready.
Fabrics are rolling in daily and we hope to have a great show.
Cliff has the rug hooking frames done and on display in the shop for any of you that would like to see them. Cecile has commisioned him to do a quilt ladder to display her quilts. Funny how I could ask the same thing and perhaps not receive a yes quite so quickly. mmmmmmmm
Well I'm off to work at the flower shop shortly. All computer updates for the HST must be done and I am the go to girl. lol. If they only knew.
Have a great weekend ladies and gentlemen. John that one was for you.
Mary Anne

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Puppies Galore

For those of you who stitch on Thursday mornings with us you will all know our local Labrador breeder Judy Frost. Judy has been anxiously awaiting the arrival of puppies ( two litters actually) and one has delivered 11 beautiful yellow labrador puppies. She brought them by for a brief visit after being to the vet and they are sooooo soft and cute but I know they will grown into dogs. lol. They will not be as big as Sheenas dog Lincoln but they will not remain puppies. Still, if I didn't have Jasper I would seriously be looking at these pups. If I am able to get a picture I will post it.
I have had a very busy week at Andjareenas with quilters seeming to get ready for upcoming shows, purchasing their backings and battings and working furiously to finish in time for the shows. Lots of tourists in the area already and it is wonderful to hear their feedback on our shop compared to others they have visited on their journeys.
Rug hookers were out in full force this past Wednesday but we missed Janice as she was off to Trent for the week. Hope you girls had a great time and come back energized and not to tired out after your week of festivities. lol. Cliff has managed to get the gripper strips on the new frames and I will have them in the shop next week for all of you to see. I will also take a picture of them for the blog and then if you are unable to get into the shop at least you will be able to see them. Someone has left behind all their precut strips organized neatly in a bag and I'm not sure if they belong to Pauline or Margaret. It appears to have some of the blue
wool that Margaret was hooking with . I don't have Margarets email to if anyone is speaking to her or Tina Cole please tell them it is at the shop in my storeroom.
I had 149 helmet liners for the troops picked up on Friday by Rosemary Kirby for the Christmas Baskets for the troops. If you know any group that might be interested in knitting they can go to the Estelle Designs website and download the pattern. Rosemary has been collecting them from our shop for this area and they will ship them from this base to Ottawa. We are trying to reach a goal of 4000 and with your help we will.
I'm off to the garden to cut brush and clean up my yard. Have a great day.
M.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Lincolns gone home

Well, we experienced our first overnight visit from Lincoln, Sheena and Kurts dog. OMG.
What a handful. This dog is taller than me when he stands on his hind legs and I had to break it to my daughter and son in law that he wasn't very well disciplined. You should know better than to tell parents that their child is not very well behaved. I'll practice that. I have six months.
I didn't realize how old our Jasper was until Lincoln arrived. Lincoln was looking forward to playing and Jasper was just not interested. I never saw him snarl and bark so much in my life. He is usually a very quiet subdued dog. Gilmour has finally come out of Travis's bedroom and his hair is no longer standing on end.
Life is back to normal or at least as we know it.
Off to plant in the garden
M.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

This week.........

I t was a busy week at Andjareenas Place with our knitters turning out in full force as well as the Rug Hookers. Now, Betty I know you were there to stitch as well but the stitchers let me down this week. They're down with colds (not from me I hope) and just generally busy. Linda, I want to know why Mike didn't offere to take me to see the Chicks. My favorite and he's always offering but not this time lol. And the Eagles too. If I could figure out how to put the frown in this line I would. lol
As I am sewing and pleating dresses for smocking there is Christmas Fabric arriving in the back door. This year I am glad to see it arriving so early as I expect to have a "run off my feet" type of fall. The plan is to get working on those Christmas gifts early. We'll see. We haven't reached the first day of summer yet and I'm already talking about Christmas. Yuck.
Fabric has been arriving all week and I am really excited with some of my purchases. Fall yarns should be arriving in the next couple of weeks for those of you who knit all summer. The knitting group certainly keep pumping out the projects .
For all of you Hookers at Trent this week and Blue Mountain, hope you are having a great time and thinking about those of us at home working. Don't lose sleep over it , we'll  be pumping you for information when you return.
Cliff and I are dog sitting this weekend for Sheena and Kurt. Lincoln the Labrador is coming to stay with his Grandparents and if we are very good we might get him again. lol. Jasper is anticipating his arrival and Gilmour is looking for a bed to hide under.
Have a great weekend  everybody.
Here's Lincoln the puppy at 6 weeks. He's huuuuuuuuge
M.

Friday, June 4, 2010

The Graduate


Congratulations Janice! No one is safe now that I have figured out how to upload your photos. Bad Betty beware you could be next. Janice's ensemble is a lovely Laurel Burch apron with a kitty kat hat and sceptor because she was the queen for the day. She is wearing a lovely lei around her neck provided by Bad Betty. You can find anything in the dollar store.
Hope you had a great afternoon on Wednesday. Thanks to Betty for keeping us all on a diet with fruit and a very light strawberry and whip cream cake. I think I will soon have to bring in workout equipment if we keep it up.
Cheers to all
Mary Anne

Monday, May 31, 2010

A beautiful day

What a beautiful day outside today. We managed to plant our flower gardens and after much direction from Cliff, and much complaining about his direction from me, we got the job done.
There is alot to be said for perennials and this fall I'm going to add more. Cliff loves lots of colour and petunnias fill the bill for him so we were off to Wains Greenhouses in Brighton and honestly I think he started to salivate when we got out of the car. They still have a wonderful selection of annuals and their hanging baskets are the best I've seen. This ones for you Janice. While we're looking the first thing he says is " would you like some red and white"? I just stared him down and he realized his gaff as I had already explained your red and white theme. lol

Friday's hook in was a success but we missed Janice and Tina although Tina did drop in with her friend from Manhattan. Welcome to Canada.
I've decided to hold the Hook In on the last Friday of every month so we are booking now!
If any of you have a moment on Thursday, stop in and see Linda O'Connors work of art. She has been planning this piece for well over a year and it is all of a sudden coming together. They are embroidered wildflowers in stumpwork and it is the finest work I've seen. She has done a thistle that you could reach out and touch.
Cheers
Mary Anne

Friday, May 28, 2010

Hook In Today

It has been a busy week with Hookers, Knitters and Stitchers. Today is our 3rd Hook In and it looks like we will have a full house as usual. It is a great time for me to see what everyone has been up to and the selection of projects people are working on is just great. There are all kinds of mediums used in this group and they're always thinking. It keeps me on my toes.
A big congratulations to Janice Daniels on her graduation day. We will miss you today, but we are all wishing you a great day at your graduation. The best part is it's not to hot today !
Cliff has finally finished staining and sealing Sheenas toy box. Took him 20 years but it's done and delivered to Oshawa last night and she was thrilled. Amazing what grandchildren on the way will do.
I am patiently waiting for new fabric arrivals. I can't believe I'm saying it but I had a meltdown buying Christmas fabrics and I can't wait for them to arrive. Stay posted.
M.

Monday, May 24, 2010

80th birthday

Thanks to a lot of support we managed to pull off my Moms 80th birthday this weekend. A huge crowd turned out even though it was the long weekend and I declare the day a huge success.
Unfortunately my sister went down with the flu on Sunday morning and was unable to attend.
We all had a great dinner together on Saturday night on her actual birthday but Pam woke up with the bug and still hasn't been able to shake it. Both Mom and my brother Steve have had it and I am keeping my fingers crossed that I don't get it and that Sheena doesn't get it.
It was so nice to see Grace Ann at the party after her heart surgery and I think she' in better shape than some of us. Cliff asked her if she would commemerate the surgery with a little ink.
I can always count on him to say the right thing. She grinned and said "maybe".
I had left the job of getting the cake to Tracy at the flower shop and it was the best ever. A lady in Brighton made it and my cousin would like it for her wedding. No date for the wedding but she says she could plan it around the cake. lol
The Lioness ladies did a wonderful job on the lunch as usual and Mary Lynn Heiser coordinated it for me and I didn't have to worry about a thing. Joan Graham did the roast and brough back memories of the times together with my Mom going back to when they roomed in a boarding house in Belleville when they were all working for the Bell Telephone. What a bunch. Sounds like they had a great time and they have remained friends all these years.
I think I'm going to kick back a little today and enjoy the weather outside. Cliff has the pool up and running and declares it warm enough to swim. We'll see. I find it is usually freezing when he is trying to coax me into the pool telling me " it's warm, no kidding". Yeah right!
Hope all of you are having a wonderful long weekend and see you on Tuesday back at the shop.
M.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

They're Twins

Cliff and I are going to be Grandparents and Sheena is having Twins.
Woo Hoo!
Having said that I had better get in shape as the babies are arriving the first of December and there are a million things I want to do. I jokingly said to the knitters today that Sheena probably already has a book of things to do and after getting off the phone with her now , she hasn't let me down. She is making lists and notes. What an organizer. I can't get the grin off my face.

I was a bit of a shopaholic this morning and we are going to have the best Christmas selection around. I couldn't stop myself. I am hoping to have everything in the shop by July 1st, but will keep the blog posted as well as the customer list.

Cheers
Mary Anne

Friday, May 14, 2010

It feels like summer

No rain today. The weather is beautiful out there. I think tomorrow I will head in early and perhaps plant the perennials that Geri so generously dug out of her garden to dontate to my flower beds. We all know that I don't know the name of the plants but I will do my best to make them grow. I'm a florist not a gardener.
Rosemary Kirby has a facebook page for those of you who are doing the helmet liners. When I figure out how to get on it I will post the info so that you can all link up and see what is going on.
I'm hoping the other shops will post their numbers so that we can see how the mission is progressing. I suggested to Rosemary that we could have a Knit In at the shop this summer and she asked if Bad Betty and the crew would be there. I Love It! See you there Bad Betty.
A little quiet in the shop today but I am sewing up a storm. It is kind of nice to work away quietly after the past week at the Flower Shop.
Manos has a new yarn that I am interested in and will be ordering this week. It is good to felt and hook with and also great for felting. I hope to have that ordered next week.
I had a bolt of cotton and bamboo batting arrive this week. 90 inches wide for $14.99 a meter
a steal , so I've heard.
There is some new sock yarn coming as well. Knits to about a 3 ply and hopefully it will be in next week. Probably won't arrive in time for the knitters group on Tuesday but definately sometime next week.
Already they are contacting me for fall yarns. I hate buying off season.
Cliff outdid himself again tonight. Striploins, fried onions and mushrooms and he makes the best mashed potatoes. I'm not sure what goes into them. Travis was even impressed. I'm hanging up my apron
M.

Monday, May 10, 2010

Mothers Day is finally over

For those of you that know me well, you know we also own a flower shop. At Mothers Day week each year I drag myself down to the shop to engage in my original career of floral designer and this year was no different. Last spring when the markets went in the pot we were concerned about Mothers Day but as usual people didn't let their mothers down. This year was bigger and better. As I get older and think I can no longer stand on my feet for that long I amaze even myself. Even more amazing is my 80 year old mother who keeps up with all of us. I am ashamed that I whine so much about my back and neck from standing for twelve hours on a cement floor. She just keeps pluggin away and rarely says anything. The younger generation are just whimps. My words, not hers. I think I put in my forty hour work week into four days. Back to Andjareenas on Tuesday.
I hope all Mothers were looked after as well as I was at Mothers Day. Travis brought home two beautiful hanging baskets to go with the new trellis and plant stand that Cliff bought for my gardens. I have been complaining about the wooden trellis's he built so he has replaced them with metal ones that are just beautiful. Guys just don't get it. He figured the plant covers the wooden one he slapped together and no one would notice but me. He is probably right but I wanted the pretty one.
We have had some great new fabric arrivals lately but I haven't had the time to enjoy them much. I am always looking for a deal and fabic companies seem to be in the mood so keep checking back as things are arriving weekly.
Knitters and Rug Hookers alike should keep an eye on some of the new yarns that are arriving to support their craft. Hope to see everyone out to knitting on Tuesday afternoon and don't forget we have a Hook In at the end of the month.
M.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

What a day!

The first day back from the show and I had an enormous amount of unpacking to do. The mindset is , if you don't take it with you you can't sell it. Hence the amount of goods that go in and come out of the van. Although we had a great show there still is alot of unpacking to do. I managed to get most of it done today, but by noon I knew it wasn't getting done today. My knitters arrived at 1:00 and that was the end of the unpacking. Thanks to Maureen for the updated sock pattern. This is a very informative group and if one doesn't have the answer someone else does. There is lots to learn from these ladies. I am always so surprised at the sweaters, socks and afghans that are constantly being pumped out. I feel slightly inadequate as I rip another pair of socks off the needle. Lost count of the stitches or something .There is always an excuse. Bad Betty on the other hand looks like she has that sweater nearly done.
M.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Hook In a Huge Success

What a weekend! The Annual Hook In held in Cobourg this year was amazing. A huge display of rugs and talent. My hat is off to Janice Daniels and crew for organizing a great weekend. There is always criticism but to those who criticize I suggest you try to arrange something of this magnitude. As a vendor it couldn't have been better. Customers were friendly and generous and for that I thank you. As vendors we don't always get to see the venue as much as we would like to but I took lots of pictures. Although I see their progress on their work all the time it still amazes me what these men and women turn out. The thought that goes into designing some of these rugs is incredible and my hat is off to all of you. Geri and I had a great time.
I understand that the Cataraqui Guild's stitchery show was a huge success as well. That's good to know as it is always difficult to squeeze two things in on the same weekend but some of my girls managed to do just that. Good for you for supporting all efforts.
Cheers
M.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Bad Betty is off the Hook!

Bad Betty is off the hook, no pun intended. She kept to her word and didn't bring food today, even though we had biscotti leftover from Tuesday Knitters. Today, Phyllis brought us delicious strawberry tarts and Debbie's husband took pity on the skinny minnies and brought us some cinnamon buns that he had just whipped up. Fresh from the oven they were still warm when he delivered them. Travis is going to put us all on a fitness regime. We're gonna lose some weight if it kills us.
We're all off to the Hook In in Cobourg this weekend and I am looking forward to it.
For those of you who are not members of the OHCG, you will have to wait until Sunday to get in but it will be worth going. There will be an amazing number of hand hooked rugs to see and perhaps some of you might even decide that this could be a new craft to add to your bag of tricks. Hookers are the best type of people to hang out with. You'll love it.
Quilters , we have some new shirt weight cottons in stock and if you like polka dots we have them. I had a lady in on Saturday and when we started counting I was amazed at the number.
There have been alot of polka dots showing up in magazines lately so for those of you looking, we're the place to be. There are some new black and whites that are retailing for $9.99 metre.
Arriving shortly will be the Bamboo/Cotton quilt batt by the metre. 90" wide.
Have a great day!
M.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Allergies or Cold

Last week while Cliff and Travis were having an allergy attack I seemed fine but it hit me Saturday morning. I actually think I had a bit of a fever, then the runny nose and today the stuffy nose. I don't get it. I don't think anybody was sick on Friday at the Hook In and I don't think I could catch something that fast but lets home it leaves as quickly as it came.
My Mom dropped off some Metro strawberries today. two for five dollars and my container weighed at least two pounds. Great berries too.
I've been surveying the gardens for the last week and am about to start moving some things around. I have decided that I'm just not the blueprint for the garden type and I'm going to just stick the plants in and if I need to I'm gonna move them next year.
We had a quiet weekend with the trucks. There was nothing parked out front and only one empty unit parked at our end of the property. To bad they couldn't do that all the time. Sunday afternoon they start moving the trucks around and the dust begins to fly. I'm not a great housekeeper but their unpaved driveway is really making me look bad. Pray for rain to settle the dust down a bit and make my flowers grow.
M.

Friday, April 23, 2010

Hook In a Success!

Another great day of hooking at Andjareenas Place. Now I just need to figure out how to get more than twenty people in my back room and believe me I can be innovative.
Lots of laughs and good company made this another successful day. I am delighted to see that everyone is working on something different and that is the best of days like today. Pam is doing the cutest sculpted teddy bears and John was there today with a pretty impressive looking stained glass. Bad Betty, Barb and I shared a table and Barb is working on a Maud Lewis and Betty is doing a beautiful tote bag with Laurel Burch Cats on it. Betty and I both own one of the Laurel Burch fabric bags and her hooked bag looks as good as the original. Beautiful!
Tina finished her lady bug rug that she designed and as usual she's making the rest of us look bad. I wish I could draw something other than stick people. Janice, when I look at your piece I get an itch to do something off the wall. I love the colours and the beads and the challenge of design. I can't draw but I can put colour together after all these years in the flower shop and quilting. Hope everyone had a great time and can't wait for next weekend at the Annual.
M.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Another great day

The weather was great today and although the skies were blue and the sun was shining I think I need to still wear socks and shoes in the morning and forget the sandals.
Our knitters met today and we are all feverishly knitting. I think I only had to cast on the socks twice and got about two rows done before everyone dispersed. It was a busy day and everyone was out. Nice to see Pauline back and Ann is making great headway on with her Marble Chunky project. What were you knitting on Janice? I can't even remember and you were sitting across the table from me and I'm not sure what Bad Betty was knitting on either come to think of it. I think I had better pay closer attention to you two.
I had two more calls today regarding the helmet liners. The ladies from the West Coast are going to ship their helmet liners to the base there and get them to Ottawa that way. If you are doing this make sure that they are marked for Project Santa Claus. I was going to have them all come to the shop but already people have started sending them in so as long as they are marked properly I don't see why that should be a problem. I agreed to do this when asked by our local librarian but I am not in charge. Anyone wanting to add their two cents feel free to jump in.
I have at least three knitting projects on the go and am dying to knit with some of the lace weight alpaca but will have to do it from the closet as I am sure our knitters group won't let that go by without a comment. lol
M.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Trenton, A funny place to live

This might get a rise out of people but Trenton is a funny place to live. We are the gateway to the Trent and yet our Marina is sadly lacking compared to Belleville just down the road. We build our Town Hall and our grocery stores on the water instead of hotels and businesses that would attract people to the town. Especially boaters. If you can afford a boat then you have disposable income. I think it is sad they way our downtown has changed over the last 30 years.
I may be dating myself but I can remember when there were at least six ladies shops in town, three shoe stores, two music stores, at least one childrens store and four jewellery stores. We had all this.
You might think this is going somewhere and as this is my blog and a place for me to lay it all out for you here it comes. What a beautiful day on Sunday. We have about an acres of property and I must admit over the last 16 years of Travis playing hockey and ball hockey and soccer in the summer, it has been neglected. So, out we go on Sunday morning to cut down and burn the overgrowth only to have to put up with the roar of trucks from the factory that moved in three years ago. Between the constant cycling of the refridgerated units going off and on and the noise from this ungodly fan on the back of the building you can only imagine what it does to the day for us. Our neighbours managed to sell their home after livng here for only seven months. They decided to buy anywhere but in Quinte West. I know every town or city has its problems but I honestly cannot believe that this has been going on for so long. The older people that are having problems with it have taken to putting styrofoam in the windows to help block some of the sound or moving to one floor of their home so as not to put up with the noise. All of us that go out to work every day don't seem to be able to get away from the stress and the noise and we are getting little support from City Hall. They are conducting a noise study in May but we'll see how that turns out and if I'm right I don't think we will see any change. There were upwards of 25 residents that showed up at the meeting at City Hall and they were angry. Remember the guy who flew his aircraft into the IRS building in the U.S. No one would listen to him. None of us own an aircraft thank God. Canada Blast has left Wellington aka Midtown Meats and have set up shop in Trenton. My understanding from our retired fire chief was that Wellington residents had a class action lawsuit against them and lost. I wonder what for.
Residents have been in touch with the city, Lou Rinaldi, Gary Muloin from the Ministry of the Environment but to no avail. Some of us have had our lives changed forever and the wheels of justice are grinding far to slowly. The big fear is that nothing will get done. I have lived in this house for 26 years and like my property but the idea of selling and getting out of Trenton is becoming a reality.
Thanks for letting me rant.
M.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

The Gathering was great as usual

The Gathering in Port Hope was great as usual. These ladies really outdo themselves every year. As soon as the vendors pull in everyone spills out into the parking lot to help us unload and get setup. At the end of the day when we are all tired, these same ladies help us carry everything out to the car and help us load up to go home. A big thank you to them and to the rest of you who are organizing shows I have to tell you that it really makes the vendor feel welcome and appreciated. Thanks again. Oh yeah, and they bake and feed you all day. Love it!\
Lamburgers were terrific as usual and I was able to get Jasper his peanut butter dog bisquits.
I had my Noro knitting books on sale at the show and will leave them up for this week at 50% off. With the regular price for these books being $27.00 I think it's a bargain that some won't want to miss.
This coming Friday is our Hook In and is booked solid for now but we do have a waiting list if you are interested in leaving your name. We hook from 10 a.m. till noon for beginners on Wednesdays and then from 1-3 p.m. for intermediates at a cost of $5.00. Janice is there to help but she opted for this instead of classes at this time so that she can get things finished for the annual and yet you can still get some help in the meantime. It also allows you to take a day off if necessary and not miss a class. Thanks Janice.
Well, my baby boy turned twenty yesterday and from the look of him on the couch at 4:30 a.m. I think he had a good time.
Anyone missing a set of truck keys? If so, we have them. Let me know if you extra set is missing.
M.

Friday, April 16, 2010

The Gathering

I'm off to The Gathering in Port Hope tomorrow. Show times are 10-3 at the Port Hope Community Centre. This is a must attend show. What a great time I have at this show every year. They are the friendliest bunch of people you'll ever meet and share their knowledge freely. If you have any interest at all, take the time to drop by. Lots of vendors and if you are a knitter this is the place to find the unusual. I always pick up home made doggie treats for Jasper every year from one of the vendors. I've been packing all day and when I finally closed the van door I stood back and thought "gee, do I have to much"? Oh well, it's all in there now.
Hope to see you all there.
M.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Deseronto Storm Win Russell Cup

Apparently I forgot to post this? Wow, I guess I'm not getting enough sleep. Thanks to Janice for bringing this to my attention.
Rarely do I take this kind of time for myself but during the Shop Hop I slipped away early on the Thursday afternoon to go to a hockey game in Bracebridge. Not just any hockey game but game 7 of the Russell Cup featuring the Deseronto Storm and the South Muskoka Shield.
I am so glad I did. We won!!!!! Some of the fans were rabid but when our fan bus arrived I think we stunned them. Approximately 200 Deseronto fans made the trip either my car or bus and never stopped cheering our boys on from the moment they stepped on the ice during warmup.
We went up 3-0 very quickly and maintained the lead throughout the game. Final score was 4-1 for Deseronto. We arrived home at 4 a.m. and I was able to sleep for about 4 hours until I had to get up and go to work. The boys celebrated for 3 days and by the Sunday afternoon dinner for them at the United Restaurant in Deseronto everyone was tired out. I came home and went to bed at 4 p.m. and slept through till morning. The grin is still on everyones face. Travis has played on lots of great teams but you don't always get to win a championship and those boys are riding the wave. Good for them.
M.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Shop Hop huge success

Every year I do worry about how things will go and no one disappointed me this year. The Shop Hop was a huge success for everyone as far as I can tell. I am so glad. Lots of work go into these events and we are always left wondering what could be done better but things went very well this year. Thank you to all our regular customers who participated and a big thank you to all of you who drove quite a distance to come and support the hop. We really appreciate your commitment to quilting.
Next is The Gathering at Port Hope community centre. I'll be packing this week and hope to see all the spinners, weavers and knitters there. This is a great show for us. I like to go just to visit with everyone and the girls that run this show are fantastic. They help me carry everything in and out at the end of the day and then on top of that they also feed me. They are great cooks and if you have never been to this show it is an even you don't want to miss. The whir of the spinning wheels and lots of people bring their knitting and some of them bring their hooking. Hope to see you there.
M.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Quilters SHop Hop

For those of you who have been keeping track of Travis's hockey we are on to game 7 in Bracebridge against the South Muskoka Shield on Thursday night. I figure we should roll in about 2:30 on Friday morning but I will either be up from the win or tired from the loss. This may be the last of hockey for me after about 16 years so I have decided to make the trek to Bracebridge and cheer the boys on. Go Storm Go!
Tomorrow our Annual Quilters Shop Hop begins and will run until Saturday . Take an opportunity to visit the five shops in the community as we all have our specialties and are independently owned. I am always amazed at the number of people through the door lately that I have never seen before. Hopefully this is a good sign for the future.
Mango Moon Tibetan Handbags are bag in stock. They are beautifully woven and colourful and at $30.00 you can't beat it. Makes a great gift for any crafter, quilter, stitcher and hooker. Bags are in and the price is right. You are supporting women around the world when you purchase Mango Moon.
We have lots of quilting books that will be from 30% off to half price. There are even some very nice books for $9.99 and I don't think you can even purchase a pattern for less than that today.
We are clearing some ends of the bolt at $5.99 metre and fat quarters are buy four and get one free as always. We still have some of the Olympic Flannel in stock for those of you who are still looking for those fabrics.
I look forward to seeing you out to the Hop.
M.

Monday, April 5, 2010

Back to the Grind

Well, I am back from my weekend away. I had a great time despite the fact that we lost both hockey games on the weekend. One in double overtime and the other with two minutes to play in the game. I could live in Northern Ontario. What a beautiful place to visit. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be alot going on except tourism. If you can live off that then you are all set. I could not believe the number of people out shopping in Bracebridge on Saturday morning. It was like being in a very busy small city. Cars everywhere and everyone seemed to be in a hurry. I, on the other hand was the tourist just taking it all in. We stayed at the Sleep Inn, a very nice hotel that allowed the dog to come with us. Jasper was a very good traveller and Gilmour stayed home with Grandma. There was no fabric store or knitting store in town. Only places like Zellers or Walmart to look for this type of thing which really surprised me.
Cliff and I had a few hours to put in before Saturday nights game so we went to the Falls in Bracebridge and viewed the generating station and the falls were beautiful. At the far end, away from the falls little children were in swimming. Ah, to be young again. It was Freeeeeezing!
Don't forget that the Quilters Shop Hop will be happening this weekend. Every year it seems we manage to get some rain so I hope that it is a good weekend and lots of quilters are out.
Hope to see you there.
M.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Happy Easter

Today we stitched. Linda's piece is coming along beautifully. After much research she is really moving on it and it is very lovely. Her hydrangeas turned out really well and look like the real thing.
Mango Moon is back in stock. I received a new shipment of the Tibetan purses as well as some recycled silk and a very interesting skein of batik . It is a little wild looking but I have seen a vest knit out of it and it's really kind of neat.
Everyone must have been quilting all winter as I seem to be selling quilt backs and batts at an alarming rate. It is so nice to see everyone completing projects that I have sold them fabric for.
I find all the groups that we have meeting in the shop very satisfying. Knitters are turning out garments at warp speed and the Hookers are really turning out some amazing pieces as well as the stitchers who meet on Thursday morning. Judy has hand pieced several sets of placemats as well as quilts and Bad Betty finishing off her tapestries . I have put my smocking away somewhere in the storeroom and can't locate it but I did manage to get the binding on the puzzle quilt today. Fran we missed seeing you too.
This is the end of our hockey this weekend. If we win the next two games we win the Russell Cup and I can retire from the hockey circuit. Keep your fingers crossed. I'm taking my rug, my socks that I have just started and my Crofter DK sweater that needs finishing. If it is like any other trip I won't get anything done on any of the items.
The weekend looks like it's going ot be a great one so all of you have a blast and Happy Easter
M.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

What a beautiful day

I know you have probably heard it a dozen times today but what a beautiful day it was outside. You can smell spring in the air. Hookers were at Andjareenas today and I am very pleased with the progress we are all making. Maybe I can even get my Deanne Fitzpatrick piece done to hang in my booth at the Annual. Ha! It was nice to see BAd Betty back with her biscotti. Say that three times.
M.

It's Official

Well, it is official. Spring is here. Walking into Walmart I saw three young girls, one of whom was wearing flip flops and shorts. Come on people, we're going to have a great weekend but then we will be back in the single digits according to the weather man (like he knows anything), but I think the flip flops are pushing it. Were we like that as kids? I'm sounding like my Mother.
Lots of knitters out to group on Tuesday and everyone is making great headway on their projects except perhaps me. I promise to pick up the slack this week and perhaps even finish something by the next meeting. I had a rather disturbing call that the lady at MFRC here in Trenton has been telling people that we have enough helmet liners. Not so. Rosemary Kirby spoke with her yesterday and straightened out the error and she is now back in the loop as to what is going on so keep knitting. Often I don't return calls if I get busy and forget but this has brought the importance of following up on those calls to my attention. I promise to do better.
We are working hard to prepare for the Quilters Shop Hop on April 8th,9th, and 10th so I really hope it is a great weekend and I see lots of quilters out for a visit.
For those of you going to the Rug Hooking Annual in Cobourg don't forget to register for the weekend if you wish to get in before the Sunday. Even if you are a member of the OHCG you won't get in unless you register. Remember this sort of event raises funds to support future events and we all want plenty of those so make sure you register.
M.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Come on out Mr. Sun

Two gray days and I am feeling a bit down in the dumps. I have decided that I am definately affected by the weather. On days like this I find that I just can't seem to make any progress where as on sunny days I seem to be able to go on forever.
Cliff, trying to be a nice guy again, went down to Andjareenas on Sunday and turned my gardens over and cleaned out all the dead debris. I went down just in time to catch him in the act and have him put back the perennials he had dug up and in time to stop him from digging up the bulbs in the front garden. One good thing was he hadn't started on our own gardens at home and I would have gone a little strange had he ruined our gardens at home. It's still March people. Stay off the grass and out of the gardens.
Our shop hop is coming up fast. The Thursday after Easter we will have the shop in top form ready to entertain quilters from all over. I will be running some in store specials so keep your eyes peeled as the discounts will be deep.
M.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Now how did that skein go on that swift again.......

All was going quite well and then I had a swift accident. I don't know what happened to that skein of yarn but it is now hanging from one side of the swift and I am trying to wind the the skein by hand and what a mess. I have another skein in the storeroom that is in worse shape for some reason and I'm debating whether to just set fire to it.
Lots and lots of Marble yarn has arrived in the store. I swear, they do not check their back orders and just keep filling them. Regardless of the numbers we seem to get in it still sells like crazy. I am now sure we have just about every colour available.
New selection of fabrics Stars and Coxcombs from Moda. It is a beautiful silky feeling cotton. Love it! A very busy day today and everyone seems to be finishing off a quilt. I am amazed at the number of quilts this weeks that needed borders and backing and then are off to the machine quilter. I received four quilts back this week from Hattie and need to get the binding on them and hang them.
I need to count our helmet liners and get a rough figure from some of the other shops involved to see how we are doing. I'm going to purchase a trunk of some sort to put them in as they are growing in number and I need to get a little more organized. I would guess that we have upwards of 100 or more in the storeroom.
I have had several Moms' with your men in the service in my shop in the last couple of days. I was amazed at the things people do for these young me and amazed that I was so out of the loop.
One Mom told me of all the dozens of cookies that she sends her son on a regular basis. When I mentioned this to a Grandmother she replied that she too sends cookies on a regular basis. Another Mom in today told me how she wraps them in order that they arrive safely. Some of these young men have no one. Call the Military Family Resource Centre or the Base itself and ask what you can do. It's good for the soul.
Sunday March 27th is the Health and Wellness Show at the Best Western in Cobourg. Plan to attend if you are able. Cecile will be there with her neck wraps but there will be lots of others and promises to be a good show. I will try to be there. Travis plays hockey in Gravenhurst on Sunday and I have to decide whether or not I can stand that drive. The Storm lead the series 1-0. Off to the rink tonight. I have no life.
M.

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Baby it's cold outside

Maybe not yet but they say it's going to drop considerably overnight. Hopefully I didn't shut the heat off in the back room today when there were so many bodies in heating it up.
A very successful quilting group today. Everyone is honing their technique and ready to move on to the lap quilt that Cecile has prepared for class. She will be teaching on Monday afternoons. I know, we're not open on Mondays but we decided that this might be a good day to hold one of these classes. So many people moving in and out of the shop sometimes classes are interrupted and students who are trying to concentrate can't. Hopefully this will be a good thing.
I have just two borders left to put on Judy's blue and white dresden plate quilt and I must say that it is beautiful. There is just something about blue and white. I received four quilts back from Hattie and with any luck I will get the binding on one or two of them this weekend and be able to display them in the shop.
I just received two large fabric shipments yesterday. Stars and Cockscombs from Moda and an assortment of doggie prints and a beautiful cat print that is so clear that you feel like you are looking into a real cats face. I also received several tone on tone blacks for those of you who are making black and white quilts. I picked up some cotton with a metallic thread that is more fashion than quilting fabric. I couldn't resist. It would be great for shawls on a cool evening or beach cover ups or even dresses for summer. It was to neat for me to leave behind and the colours were fabulous.
M.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

I'll Try that again

What a day! I actually was five minutes late opening the door today and there were two people in the parking lot. That is you first clue. When that happens, and it does on occasion, I am usually busy all day and I wasn't disappointed. I tried for three hours to get the back room tidied up but it was twenty to one and Bev was at the back door already arriving for knitting.
Thank you to Barb for leaving behind her scarf pattern and sample for me to show the knitting group and also for the chemo cap. Everyone was very happy with the results and took a copy of the pattern with them to use up the balance of the Marble Chunky. Thanks to Maureen for the copy of her sock pattern. I found a copy left on the back table so I claimed it for myself.
New arrival of sock yarn today generated some excitement. Jawoll Bambus and Jawoll Magic.
Both are very nice yarns and are going quickly thanks to the Tuesday afternoon Knitters.
New arrivals of Sirdar Country Style Dk in a nice pale yellow and spring green.
I have two shipments of fabric coming and can't wait.
M.

What a day!

Saturday, March 20, 2010

WE WON!!!!

The Deseronto Storm beat out the Elliot Lake Bobcats tonight in Deseronto 6-4
Woo Hoo! That means they don't have another 10 hour drive back up to Elliot Lake.
After going down 2 goals right away in the first period it was a pretty somber night. I'm sure the boys were worried about the 10 hour bus drive they might have to take back up to Elliot Lake while I was thinking I'd probably have to float Travis another loan of seventy or so dollars.
Nothing to do in Elliot Lake but eat and from the amount of money he consumes he must do alot of that.
Our next series is with the South Muskoka Shield in Gravenhurst from the Russell Cup.
Can they make it any farther away?
And for you Maureen, I'd love to be a fly on the wall when you pull up in the stretch limo at the Bass Pro Shop.
M.

And the rain moves in

Well, of course I slept in this morning. It appears to be a dark and dreary day out there today.
This was the day Cliff was coming down to clean up my gardens and trim some of the brush and now that won't be happening. Oh well. He is also having to take Travis for a morning skate before tonights big game so he can't be in more than one place at a time. I'm not sure why not as women are expected to be but that's another topic.
The Marble Chunky arrived yesterday in the just two colours. The beautiful rich plum colour which I forget the real name of, and the pink and plum verigated. If you wish to see it come quick because at the rate the ladies are making those shrugs it won't be there long. I'm even thinking of making a small one for Sheena in pink her favorite colour.
Speaking of Sheena. She gets her first call for jury duty and it is definately not in her plans at this moment. I didn't know that you could get a message left on your answering machine from the Attorney General for an emergency jury on a Friday afternoon to show up for Monday morning. Wow! That's a wakeup call. I explained to her that she needed to call them but true to form she was just a little freaked out. All turned out well and those people at the Attorney Generals office are pretty nice people to talk to. Thanks. I have never been called in 53 years and don't want to be but it is your duty as I explained to her. Right!
After the Hook In I went into my storeroom where everything went in order to clean out the room for hookrs. Imagine the lack of space. I have started another quilt. This one I have been holding on to for some years. When Karen Osborne , one of my employees and a good friend passed away from bone cancer I received all her stitching notes as well as this fabric that had been left over from a comfort quilt. I remember that she had purchased the fabric at the Silver Thimble in Whitby and Geri Logan was the one who made the quilt as Karen was not able to make it for herself. I have been avoiding the fabric for a long time but Friday as I was tidying up I finally felt the need to start working on the quilt. I thought of all the laughs we had at the Sheep to Shawl in Kingston and some of the wild drives to the doll shows in Marmora. I think the time was right. I had sent four quilts off to Hattie Van Dyk so perhaps having them quilted and completed was the push I needed or perhaps the events of the past week gave me that push. Who knows. Off to the salt mines.
M.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Happy St. Paddys Day

To all of you I wish a very Happy St. Patricks Day as I sit hear drinking my green beer. Cliff picked up the food dye as he was picking up the prime rib, that he is outside barbecuing and insisted that I have a beer and get in the mood. I'm not sure what mood he wants me in but I'm a cheap date and one beer will be it for me.
Spring is in the air and although I know I'm not supposed to touch my lawn I am dying to get outside and rake and burn and clean up in the yard. I'm itching to start planting something so I think I'll get some peat pots and start some plants this weekend. For those of you at Canada Blooms enjoy yourself and bring me a little something to share for my garden.
No one's getting thin. Bad Betty is swimming like crazy but today Phyllis brought us two bite cupcakes with green sprinkles to celebrate the day. The idea is you are to eat one , two bite cupcake but I find that they are so small that we all eat more than one and therefore defeat the purpose.
A very sad day today. Carolyn formerly of the Bees Knees in Warkworth passed away. She fought a very valiant fight but in the end succumbed to the cancer that had invaded her body.
My thoughts are with her family at this time.

Live every day like it's your last.
May you be in heaven a half an hour before the devil knows your dead.
M.

Monday, March 15, 2010

What a weekend!

Well, as most of you who know me know that Travis is in playoffs for the Deseronto Storm. The Storm played the Elliott Lake Bobcats last night and beat them 7-0. Tempers were fairly good until the last ten minutes of the game when boys will be boys and the hits were flying as well as I'm sure the yipping on the ice. I am beginning to think that it takes a special kind of person to be a referee. You are verbally abused by the fans and then have to take the guff on the ice from the players unless, when you have finally had enough, get a trip to the penalty box.
Keep your fingers crossed as we play them again on Monday night and then are off to Elliott Lake for another game. I don't know how those young men endure that 8.5 hour bus trip but they do and that is definatley the sign of dedication for me. Travis says the view is beautiful but there is nothing else up there to entice him to stay. Lots of elderly retirees who were all very polite to our boys and wished them well with their hockey match. Nice!
Sheena's husband Kurt, played sledge hockey in Sundridge on Saturday night but they were beat out of playoffs by that team. Unfortunate as that is a very long ride home to Oshawa after losing a hockey game. They are hosting the championships in Oshawa this year and that will be a bit of a disappointment but you do what you have to do in this game. Durham Steelhawks will recover and move on for next year. If any of you have been watching the paralympic hockey it is not a sport for the fainthearted.
Moving on......
I have a good portion of my rug hooked. I find it very difficult to stay on task. Once I get a small portion done I am dying to move to the next colour. I decided to mix some Noro boucle in with my wool fabric and am loving the outcome. The texture that I am getting is really amazing.
Back to work Tuesday.
M.

Friday, March 12, 2010

Hook In a Huge Success!

First I want to thank everyone who came to todays Hook In . You made it a huge success.
You came, ate, drank and never complained even once. Thank you.
We were a little stressed out leading up to this day as we knew there was going to be a large group and we wanted you all to be comfortable. No one complained about lack of space and that made us giddy enough to do it all over again next month. It was good for the soul.
I'm very excited about my Deanne Fitzpatrick piece that I am working on and made great headway today.
A special thank you to Janice Daniels for moral support and Bad Betty and Joan McCulloch for the treats . Cecile did a great veggie tray along with her pumpkin bread so we were all well fed.
To the ladies from Brighton, thank you for coming out. I don't see you often enough and to the girls from the County it was nice to see you too. Campbellford was well represented as well as well as Belleville.
We didn't have space for John this month but we have a chair reserved for him for the next hook in and I look forward to it.
Don't forget The Gathering next month in Port Hope on the 17th of April.

Thanks again
Mary Anne

Thursday, March 11, 2010

New Classroom

Well, Cecile and I have decided that we are definately to old to be moving anything as heavy as the fat quarter shelves and it is also not a good idea to be laughing when you do it. Drop one of those babies on your feet and you'll know it . We survived the ordeal unscathed but we are definately out of our league when it comes to moving heavy furniture.
We have it all set up for tomorrows Hook In for 20 people and have decided with a few adjustments that we will be able to leave it that way. That does mean however, that there will be no more storage of fabric under the cutting table. That will keep me out of trouble. I'll have to put my money where my mouth is , either use it up or clear it out.
I'm not sure we will be able to get the Thursday afternoon girls to make another crazy quilt block but they humored Cecile this afternoon and tried it. It seems to me that it took a little getting used to when I did my first block and it did have to grow on me a bit. I actually like the crazy quilting and with all the new threads for embellishing and the machines that can do the work it makes the task alot easier. If you don't want to embellish it's a great way to use up scraps.
Frank, from Breakfast Television tells me this morning that Environment Canada has officially said that winter is over. Yippeee! What a great winter. Not much snow, no freezing rain to speak of and very few ploughing bills. My kind of winter.
I have got the front and back of the Crofter dk sweater done and am going to knit the sleeves at the same time and hope that I can match the yarn fairly closely. My socks will have to wait.
Project Helmet Liner is growing by the day. I don't think that there is a day that goes by that we don't have someone in to pick up the pattern or the yarn.
I have got enough of my Deanne Fitzpatrick piece hooked that I feel I can sit in tomorrow with the rest of the hookers. Can't wait!
Mary Anne

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Hook In

Fridays Hook In is full up. We have 20 hookers registered to be at the shop on Friday and we have been moving the back room around to make room. I think the fabric cutting table is going to have to go for one day. That is not a big deal but the trouble is the stuff under the table.
Now, I should know better but when someone asks the answer is always "put it under the cutting table". You can only imagine what can emerge from under the table. Good thing I cleaned up the store room on Saturday. Cliff thinks the shelf is going to fall off the wall and doesn't like the way it bows in the centre but I keep checking the brackets in the wall and so far so good. Keep your fingers crossed.
Bad Betty showed up with cookies again today but they were on sale she says and this is the last time. Want to bet?
I power walked home tonight. Not that far but every little bit helps right?
Travis is off to Elliot Lake to play hockey for the next three days. They've arrived in one piece and all is well. Cliff's having separation anxiety and I'm putting my feet up and enjoying the holiday. lol
Mary Anne

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

How sweet it is.

Bad Betty didn't let me down. Today we had cookies and miniature butter tarts.
Did anyone notice that I had sneakers on today? I'm warming those puppies up for a big walk 'cause if I keep eating like this I'm going to need it. Don't worry Betty your secret is safe with me. Linda doesn't need to know that we aren't eating healthy all week. We'll eat carrots on Thursday. yum
New arrivals
I had new quilt books arrive today. After counting the books on the weekend I don't know how I had the nerve to buy more books but I did. There are some interesting, just released titles and I only bought one of each so hurry in and check them out.
I think only one colour of Marble Chunky arrived today so be patient as the girls bought up all the purple jewel before it was out of the box. I will order it again in the morning.
Friday is our Hook In and it is booked solid so for those of you who didn't book early I apologize.
This is going to become a regular thing for us so I will keep everyone informed as to when the next Hook In will be.
Cheers
Mary Anne

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Another great day!

Wow! That says it all. It is early March we have very little snow and the sun is shining. I love it.
I spoke with a lovely 80plus lady today from Vancouver and her knitting group are joining in on Project Helmet Liner. What a great country we live in and what great citizens we have. She also gave me a few suggestions for a provisional cast on after the ribbing is done and when I hesitated for a moment she said " you sew don't you "? I was caught! I love to knit and I'm a pretty nice knitter but I would never say that I am the "Shop Knitter". That would be Cecile or would have been Sharon if she was still working. Know your place I always say. Don't try to BS your way out of anything because you know they're going to see right through you.
I knit socks and am proud of it.!
I left the Stitchers alone briefly this morning and Bad Betty and Linda decided that we are going off treats and starting next week it's going to be raw vegetables and fruit. Now I like both of the latter but is there going to be no more cookies, butter tarts or pumpkin bread ? Oh girls, say it isn't so. I figure we will all lose twenty pounds by the first of May at this rate. lol
Franny where are you ? You have been noticeably absent and I hope your tooth isn't giving you any problems.
Olive has a new great grandson and she was very excited on the phone today. Mother and baby are doing well as far as she knows.
Anyone out there that has any larger cardboard boxes Geri is looking to pack the clothes for Hatii in them. If you take them apart we will store them at the shop and Tom will put them back together as they need them. Thanks. If anyone has any ideas as to where to go and ask for boxes email me and we'll go after them.
You know you're in trouble when you're going over the inventory sheets and you don't recognize the names of some of the yarn. Not a good sign.
The boys are at hockey until after 8 so the Mom is in charge of the dinner tonight. Travs off to a birthday party at Kelseys so that just leaves Rico to feed and he is no problem at all. I''ve made some homemade chicken noodle soup and he can take it from there. They're a pretty good pair.
Most of the time.........
M.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

What a beautiful day...

I can't believe I'm doing it again but my goodness it was a beautiful day today. Having said that we'll probably get hit with a blizzard for my punishment.
We had a great turnout for knitting today. Everyone came to try out the new chairs and they were a huge success. lol
I left my knitting at home so I had to start a new pair of socks. I had a good excuse and a customer asked just the other day "what does this colour look like knit up"? So I'm just making everyone happy and knitting it up. There are so many knitting projects that I would like to do so I had better get it in gear. Cecile says she came to work to lose weight and after a year has lost only one pound. The Dr. told me that as you get older you gain two to three a year so I figure if she's only lost one she's really down three cause she refrained from gaining the other two right?
Bad Betty brought biscotti (say that three times) for our treat today. I think we're going to have to put some kind of treadmill in the storeroom soon.
The boys won their hockey game in Innissville last night so they have a week off (that means alot of laying around and playing video games) before heading off to Elliott Lake for the next round of the playoffs. Playing in this league we have seen a different part of Ontario. Living here in Trenton Travis has always played in what they refer to as the Lakeshore League and I don't remember going any farther north than Port Parry but with the Jr. Club he is playing for now we have been to Sturgeon Falls, Nippissing, Elliott Lake and others. The north is a beautiful place. You have to like snow and it wouldn't hurt to speak a little French when you get that far north.
M.