SHADES OF BLUE-A CROCHET BOY'S BLANKET

Using 3 different stitches as well as crocheting into the back of a stitch and as many shades of blue wool available, a little bed blanket was made for one of my grandsons.

Striped blankets are an easy way to use up those 1/2 balls that need using. My daughter also needed me to fix 5 little baby blankets that the kids use. They pull the strands or little holes develop from uses. So Nana fixed them all so they could be used in the car, at the cottage or snuggling while watching TV. Although I have made crocheted clothes items, blankets are always a hit. There is no need to measure- one size fits all. So what is next- well my littlest granddaughter needs a longer blanket. Shades of pink is under way!
 #babyblanket # crochet items # Nana

EMBRACING FALL

The beginning of September brings a transition and back to school. Most people get a little down and wonder where did the summer go. Now mid-month Fall is around the corner and it is time to look and see what it will bring. Just reviewed a site of how to spruce up the home with Fall themes. One idea bring out your blankets and afghans for your various seating areas. It is one idea I embrace as I have many crocheted or knitted afghans for all areas of my house. Nothing works better than staying warm while watching TV or reading a good book. As a photography buff, there are many Fall images worth capturing. The colours present such an array of opportunities. Often found very close to home.

Country shots are bountiful. As with my picture from Fall of 2012 taken on a country road a few miles away is still one of my favourites.

Leaves make great backdrops to your photos. Collect some with family members-especially little ones and the craft opportunities are endless! Fall with warmer clothes and brisk walks providing a season to enjoy. I know Adolph is starting to make more soups, sauces and stews. My home is aromatic with the smells of such delicious food.
Trips to markets include the fall vegetables.

I love this field near me with its orange pumpkins ready for harvesting. Fall can be full of memories with all the Canadian Fall Fairs coast to coast and opportunities to continue to enjoy the outdoors. So why are you waiting? Get out and enjoy!

BABY BLANKETS-USING THE AFGHAN STITCH

It is always exciting to be expecting a new baby into the family. So the last few months creating some little and big blankets for the new one kept my hands busy during any down time. Using the crochet afghan stitch takes much longer than a simple quick crochet stitch. It is tighter and probable warmer for the baby. The yellow/green blanket in the background used some wool left over from my mother so the little one will have something from the great-grandmother. The blanket in the foreground shows some of the detail-an embroidered flower in pink and purple- a little abstract and imperfect for a reason! One corner of the blanket has 5 little butterflies- 3 blue and 2 pink to represent the family. Another corner has two pink stars!  Of course some simple little hats for the little ones's head! The smaller blankets can be used in the stroller or in the car. All are easy to wash! There is something earthy about making blankets for me. Blankets represent warmth! My grandchildren have all used the items made over the years. If they wear them out then I can make more for them. My house has homemade knitted and crocheted blankets everywhere. There are also material quilted ones. Recently I made a pretty blue and white crocheted blanket for a friend of my daughter! A handmade item gives permanence to life! Crafts connect us with other generations!

NANA SAYS BABY BLANKETS ARE LOVING

One of my summer projects was knitting squares to make baby blankets. One blanket is in progress and I will be photographing the stages soon to share with my blog readers. I love making blankets but especially ones for babies. All my grandchildren have several blankets made by Nana. I have made them for my children's friends that are having babies. Usually I just keep making them to have a little stock. Hats and scarves are another favourite of mine. Yes I have several scarves on the go too. I put a project near where I sit in the house, like my kitchen table. While waiting for breakfast, I can do a few rows. By my bed and if on a short car trip carry along a project- of course, I am not driving. Spending time using my hands is very therapeutic and there is a product at the end. Do you make special projects with your hands? I am trying to teach my granddaughter to knit. She almost has the skill. Back to blankets- do you find yourself wanting to curl up in one? Or wrapping that little person in one?