Shiny Objects

Though the heat in Western Massachusetts is nothing compared to the center section of the nation, may I say--enough already! Why doesn't global warming cause the world to have daily weather like say, Hawaii. A little rain every morning then sunny with a cool breeze and a fruity drink in your hand. Who's in charge? I need to speak with them.
My knitting production has slowed for two reasons. First, it's hot. Knitting with cotton is no cooler (but I must admit, less scratchy) than knitting with wool. A lap full of knitted cotton is heavy and warm. Second, my current project is stripes. Stripes require me to juggle 2 balls. Untwist 2 balls. Pay attention that I tighten up the join. In other words, this is not the mindless knitting I need while watching the series "Lark Rise to Candleford" I borrowed from the library. I have completed season 2 and have requested season 3. But I digress.
To distract myself from this weather I have been puttering about with beading and jewelry making. Wanna see? If you keep reading you will have no choice.

Wire work
 If I could figure out how to limit the glare you would see 3 pearls in shades (from top): lime green, pearl and seafoam (blue/green).

 Bead Embroidery
Beaded Cuff Bracelet. I started out with a specific design but trashed that idea to arrive at the creation below. I was surprised how much I liked doing this. Very time consuming. I look forward to creating another one and have started collecting the raw materials.

 Stringing
I love Tiger Eye. I would go to LBS (local bead shop) and collect a few stones and after about a year I had enough to create a necklace and a bracelet, to be seen at a later date. Previously I had created tiger eye earrings so when the bracelet is done I will have a complete set.

A technique called Kumihimo has peaked my interest. It involves more equipment to add to the fishing tackle box I bought to organize this interest. It is becoming full and heavy.
So many interests. At least I always have something to do.

"In other words, she ignores us. It's unacceptable."

Multi Talent

I knew when Andrew was a kitten that he had a love of all things crafty. He also knows quality from, well, non-quality. Sock yarn isn't safe and he will rewind a hank if he feels it's not just right. I'm sure he feels I need the challenge. Well duh!, put it where he can't get it. Easy for you to say, he's eaten through bags, opened storage bins (I had to block them with full containers of litter, empty buckets were a waste of time)untied canvas bag handles tied into knots. He is a master. Don't even insult him with a skein of acrylic yarn. Won't even give it sniff. Just look at that face. All business that one.

Here he is marking my quilt top. I guess my markings were not up to his expertise-so noted.

He has offered several times to hold the quilt and the ruler down. I was unaware that chewing on the hanging button was part of the correct process. I can't say it helped draw a straight line but who says it has to be straight? He also feels the amount of cat hair now on the quilt will only make it warmer.

With all this help and guidance I shouldn't have any concerns about keeping warm this winter-regardless of the price of fuel. The sweater not only has 100% merino but 100% cat hair knitted right in. Mmmmmm. Toasty.
The daisies were positively glowing last evening. Their days are numbered. I may have created another inner monster with this bead introduction. I'm not a jewelry wearer but I don't think that should stop me from creating, should it? No! [I became a nail technician and didn't (and still don't) give a hoot about nails. It was a lucrative 2nd job, I was good at it but it burned me out.] I think the world needs another jewelry designer....