Sisters Hand Made

Stitch Over Time

2011-04-03T20:48:00.000-07:00

This is a 'stitch' because I'm not much of a "stitcher" compared to my sisters, but I always enjoyed crocheting when I had more time. I started this colorful afghan before I had children and the green one was left when grandma Anne passed away. She'd started it and included several rows at the corner of the square (the one she always told she learned from hearing the directions over the phone). That is certainly not something I could do, but my grandma could do just about anything when it came to crocheting or knitting. My plans were to finish these for my two sons as gifts. One day I decided I had to finish these two blankets that they had been asking about. Feeling sort of bad that I'd let them sit so long, decided to get going again. My poetry is always inspired and I had a moment in this process where I completely forgot what to do with the colorful one and wasn't sure what I'd so with it. I really wanted to finish this and so decided to ask her. This is where STITCH OVER TIME came from. There are two crochet stitches I learned long ago from my grandma Anne that I hoped I'd always know. One she called a "ric rac" all fanciful and bright with shades of many colors of dark, medium and light. The other came out as a square with no specific name she learned it over the phone from a friend who could explain. Throughout many years she'd really found her nitch even the last years of her life she found she still could stitch. More patterns and more yarn she never seemed to have enough continuing to give to others though at times it could be tough. A 'ric rac' that I started that I started just after she passed away still sits unfinished to this very day. Today I started in again experiencing trials and errors forgetting a specific stitch decided to ask her. Just a minute later as clear as I could see looking back on that row I knew she's answered me. This 'ric rac' should be done many a time it would have been to be given as a gift to my son who's turning ten. The other crocheted treasure meant for someone she had in mind has many shades of green like beautiful evergreen pines. It too shall be complete as soon as can be to be given to my other son instead of to me. This will tell the story of a lady oh so fine.... and the meaning of this poem of mine called STITCH OVER TIME.

Dad's Pack

2011-04-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

Dad's Pack This past New Years Day the boys and I were saying our goodbyes at grandpa and grandmas before heading back home. My nephew was there as well. As we got our last load in the car and were ready to leave, my dad walked downstairs saying he has something and to wait. When he returned I saw this old yellow pack in his hands. He gave this pack to me and I was overjoyed to receive it since I knew he'd used it for nordic skiing. In fact, it was the pack that carried the 12 lb. load in the Norwegian Birkebeiner Ski Race in Norway. The weight is still required to be carried by those skiing in this challenging race. It represents the 12 lb. baby and future King Haakon being carried by two men of the Birkebeineret to safety during a dangerous and turbulent time in Norway. Dad always said of all the nordic ski races he completed, this was the most difficult. It symbolizes much more for me personally and those are expressed in the poem DAD'S PACK On this New Years Day I received a special pack A treasure from my dad used in travels back. It held a certain purpose in a worldwide race It carried extra weight with a sure and steady pace. By a strong and loyal man who always had a dream That never lost his will nor his courage or his steam. It will serve as a reminder in times that I need strength That any challenge can be met no matter what the length. In future trails I blaze I'll wear by dad's old pack That will carry all my dreams and I will never look back. The places that it's been and the future load it holds Will bring a special joy of stories to be told. There will come a day when I will need a hand To help me carry my load or to simply take a stand. This is when I'll know that courage should not lack A burden can be placed inside my dad's pack. Then it can be carried with the same goal in mind To strive to the finish and never look behind.

Photo of the Bisti Wilderness

2010-11-20T08:53:00.001-08:00

Bisti Badlands-De-Na-Zin

I am on my way to the Farmington BLM (Bureau of Land Management) after a 5 year stint at Canyon de Chelly National Monument. About a month ago, I couldn't picture myself leaving that Park but I have to go because of funding. I am going to an area that is heavily into oil and gas exploration and some really cool recreation activities. One of the main areas on the Farmington unit, is the Bisti Wilderness or Bisti Badlands as some locals call it. It's really cool if your a rock hound. Some say that this is the area where they faked the moon landing in 1969. I think it's a real cool place and I will be checking the area out for hiking and biking trails. This is also a paleontologist meca and I think there is some cool dinosaur bones that have been discovered in the area. If I am not mistaken, this area was once underwater and when the glaciers retreated, it left these spectacular hoodoos and rock formations. It should be fun to see some new areas at my new duty station of Northern New Mexico. Tess

Navajo Hogan

2010-11-15T18:13:00.000-08:00

This hogan was located in our cutting unit way up Black Rock Canyon in Canyon de Chelly National Monument. The hogans were used by Navajo's and are found all over the reservation. The door will always be on the east side of the building. Some hogans are still in use today and they are even bigger than they were originally built. Typically if you see an abandoned hogan, there was a death and they left the body in there as a tomb. It is known to never enter a hogan after it's abandoned. In this hogan, a small baby had died and so the parents had abandon it. The land owner told me that they spent there childhood up in the area of this hogan and nobody ever bothered it, except for these two donkeys. Tess

More Felicity Hats

2010-11-05T08:32:00.001-07:00

I made a few more Felicity hats for Christmas Gifts and I have discovered that whatever skein you knit with, it turns out different. The yarn is Lion Brand "Amazing" If you need a warm and cozy hat for winter, just let me know. http://www.lionbrand.com/yarns/amazing.html

Tess

Felicity hats

2010-10-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

I found this hat design and then I found the perfect yarn. It's called Lion Brand Amazing. The colors are really pretty when you knit. I used a size 4 for the head and then I knit about 4" or so and then I changed to size 6 needles to finish it off.

http://store.knitting-warehouse.com/yarn-lion-amazing.html

http://knitology.files.wordpress.com/2007/12/felicityv2.pdf

The Everyday Cowl

2010-10-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

I decided to knit a sweater for Anner. The cowl neck was very popular in the 80's and the style and design are back. All the gals in my class wore "Cowl Necks' , along with their perfectly primped layered hair. They were going for the Farrah Fawcett look. Of course, I was wearing button up plaid shirts with corduroy pants. Go figure.

Poem by Angie Nistler...

2010-05-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

The Bed Swing

Chained between two oak trees

On a wooded bank
There is a special place
Overlooking handy Hank's

It is a family treasure
The stories all run deep
All those years of fun
Are memories to keep

The joy that it provided us
Lasted nearly 30 years
From times of soothing comfort
To those that caused some tears

With hurt, stress or fear
When trouble comes my way
This place is in my heart
To this very day

It is the fondest time
Of my childhood
Returning to that time
Thinking that I could

It always drew me back
To get another look
Holding on real tight
Like a sturdy hook

The day I did return
To see if it was there
Noticing it wasn't
Decided that I dare

Reaching toward the chain
Grown into the tree
Needing just a touch
A piece falling free

Tightly in my hand
Lied a rusty piece
Of that lasting memory
Of times that will not cease

On this cool autumn day
It seemed meant to be
The memories would hold
in this lock without a key

Of those happy times
That will always give a ring
Of laughter fun and peace.....On the Bed Swing....

Container Gardening in Junk Pots!

2010-05-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

Check out this upcoming event in Minneapolis. I plan to attend after being told about it by a friend. I'm signed up for the class - "Container Gardening in Junk Pots". I know nothing on this topic as of now, but watch for an update after the weekend!

http://www.aajms.com/

Launching Vintage Stalkers Etsy Store

2010-03-08T07:44:00.000-08:00

Stalkers? It's not a bad word when it comes to locating that perfect vintage piece.

There are a couple of definitions which are: someone who walks with long stiff strides or someone who stalks wild game or yet another one is someone who prowls and sneaks about. I prefer....gals who are browsing at junk shops in a relaxed manner while on the prowl for awesome vintage finds. No worries...there is enough to go around for everybody. Look at what people throw out these days. We just happen to have an eye for the good stuff and for the current trends in vintage. Plus we are saving these items from the landfill and creating a new use for them.

'wire egg basket'

So, since we are doing this vintage stalking anyway we decided to set up shop and sell some of our wonderful finds. The sisters have been at this for years and like I mentioned in a previous post it is in our DNA strand structure. We all have our own styles of what we like...I happen to love vintage ski items, old books and funky containers. When I am out scouting around I pick what appeals to me be it a color, a particular material or something nostalgic that brings back memories.

'some of my favorite books'

That is what it is all about. Sure there are plenty of places you can find "new" items that are made to look old but we think it is more fun to find the "real old stuff". There is always something out there from the past that was made so well and still has life in it. It may show signs of wear and tear, have rust all over it or have dents and dings but that is what makes it look so awesome.

Let us....vintage stalkers be your personal pickers for funky and fun items. You don't have to do the work! We will help those lost vintage items find a new life in your home! You can find a new purpose for an old item.....

'tile made in England'

So...take a minute and check out our new shop...and check back often since you never know what we will find!

Until next time......

Branigan Weavers Tweed Irish Teddy Bear

2010-03-02T16:35:00.000-08:00

Please use your imagination and think...."Irish Accent"

Failte! My name is Kevin the Irish Tweed Teddy Bear and I immigrated to the United States from Drogheda which is in County Louth Ireland. I come from a wonderful place called Branigan Weavers where they take great care in creating woven capes, blankets and other woolen wonders like me!

My new house mate visited Ireland but did not stop in my town and I asked "Why?" Her excuse was that she and her sister only had two weeks for their trip and they wanted to see as much of Ireland as possible. She was sorry they missed my region but she did say that they managed to drive all the way around the entire island without killing each other...which I didn't quite understand being a loving and carefree teddy bear and all.

I told my house mate that the next time she is in Ireland she better high tail it up to Drogheda because there are many wonderful things to see and do. They missed seeing the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Center and Newgrange tomb which dates back to 2900 B.C. meaning it is 5,000 years old (500 years older than the Great Pyramid of Giza). What were they thinking when they missed that wonderful gem? My head is full of stuffing and I even figured that one out!

She promised she would stop there next time. In 2012 they are having a celebration in Belfast which will commemorate the building of the Titanic in their city. The Titanic set sail from Belfast on April 10th 1912 and if you know anything about history you know the fate of her voyage. Anyway, if she can make it to Ireland again she said she will swing by Drogheda....I hope she does.

Just between you guys and me....I think they were in the pubs drinking a bit of that wonderful brew that we all know and love!

P.S. You might not hear from me again as a guest blogger since my housemate might be upset that I gave away what they were REALLY doing in Ireland!

P.S.S. Do the words Bushmill's Distillery have any meaning? see I told ya...they were a little distracted....I won't say another word...

P.S.S.S. I know I am pink and my name is Kevin...I just want you to know I am ok with my feminine side! It is 2010 people!

So long....Kevin

Hovland Lumber Mora, Minnesota

2010-02-21T13:10:00.000-08:00

I just recently took a trip up to Minnesota to visit family and relatives. I ended up skiing the 42 km race while I was home. I skied with my sister Ang. The following day, I spent some time up at my cabin and then went to retrieve my Blash Ash paneling that was stored out at Hovland Lumber. It turned out real nice. I have always been attracted to black and white ash, especially when it's planed. The grain is really beautiful on the boards. I hope to do some wainscoting or put it up on the ceilings. There is only 484 board feet so It won't go to far but just to get some wood that came off of your land is pretty cool. Well, it's still stored in Minnesota now so we'll see how long it takes to actually get to Colorado.
Hovland lumber has been around for a long time. I spent a lot of time there when I was younger. The mill has gotten bigger and they have added some other components to the mill, namely the planer and edger. This tooling has made it possible for Eric and Einar to make tongue and groove paneling. After talking to Einar Hovland last week, the business has been slow because of the housing slump. This affects business owner's in small towns like Mora Minnesota. Hopefully the economy will rebound and business will increase in the next few months. If you need paneling, rough boards building supplies, or specialty pieces (Bar counters), Hovland Lumber is the place to go for all your lumber needs.

Black Ash Species

Logged by Steve Kerr Logging
Milled by Hovland Lumber hovland@izoom.net

Already February of 2010...Is Anybody Out There?

2010-02-17T17:57:00.000-08:00

Time is flying by as usual. I figured the Etsy shops might be slow but it has been super slow motion lately. Valentine's Day has come and gone. Not many people are buying. I was wondering if it was either paying off the Christmas bills, the infamous TAX TIME, or just the economy in general. I am hoping that it picks up sometime real soon. I have been stocking up the shop even though there seems to be no one buying. Hard to motivate to make things but we should keep on going regardless!

I have listed a few cotton crocheted bowls in my shop which are kind of different and fun. I have been thinking about some new ideas. I don't know what they are yet but I will keep you posted if something new comes up! This might be the perfect time to figure it out!

Here is a photo of the cotton bowl in a natural color...

And a super bright green!

Using a different fiber and crocheting instead of knitting has been kind of fun!
100% cotton is wonderful to work with and I might do more things with it...

Anyway...not much more for now! Keep creating and let's hope there is a jump start in the economy real soon!

Until next time....Anne

DISCOVERY! Scientists Isolate the "Vintage Gene" after studying the Johnstone Clan....

2010-02-04T09:51:00.000-08:00

Vintage=the endless pursuit of going through thrift shops, junk stores, antique stores (not the tidy and clean ones), consignment shops, pole barns owned by the local eccentrics who know their junk (the messier the better), yard sales, garage sales, estate sales, auctions...repeat, repeat, repeat!

To find the good stuff you have to put in the effort and do some 'diggin'. I come from a line of "Vintage People". It is funny how this term makes all of the 'rooting around in junk' sound so much better! We aren't hoarders....we are 'Vintage Collectors'. Sounds so sophisticated doesn't it? Lucky for me I have received a lot of my vintage goodies without any of the dirty work.

When I was a youngster we used to stop by the local flea market near our lake cabin. If we were lucky we got to "stop for just a minute" after our Sunday ritual of church in Motley Minnesota. I have a confession...I am so sorry for I have sinned....ding a ling a ling....I was thinking about the darn 'flea market' the whole time I was in church. Sorry Mom. It is all Dad's fault!

At the time I don't think my Mom was that into it but we all loved it! We would get a dollar or so and we could search around for a good find. In my last post I was wondering how my son got into vintage...hmmmmmm....that is a good one. Ya don't have to be a 'rocket scientist' to figure that one out.

Eventually my Mom came around and a let me tell you, she has an eye for the really good stuff. I often thought she should have been an interior decorator or a fashion designer!

Check out the latest Vogue Magazine and read their review on the up and coming vintage clothing collector...Jean Johnstone! The gal with killer instincts for high end vintage fashion. Don't get in her way at your local thrift store. She is ruthless when it comes to finding the top end labels for her daughters....watch out for her...Can you imagine her at a Paris resale shop?

Here are some fun vintage gems! Awesome!

Do you notice a pattern here?

Jim's Cebe goggles from his younger days.....

Mother in Laws actual ski boots.....Priceless!

Mother in Laws actual runner sled....Priceless!

Kids ski boots given to us from a friend. (they were going to throw them out) Blasphemy!

My growing Skier Figurine collection from my Mom!

Handknit Mittens from Margie! Great find!

Vintage Ski Sweater that Kathy got me....isn't it cute?

And a few more goodies...

Book from Dad...

Sewing machine...found...I am not telling where!

Doll house Mom found at a garage sale for $5 bucks I believe...worth about $150.00 in antique store!

Poster Tess gave to me a couple years ago because of our addiction to fiber arts!

Dad's sweater...yes, they gave it to me...I guess he hadn't worn it in a while. I think he had someone make it for him. Classic!

Ok....I could add a ton more...but we want to hear about your "vintage" collecting stories!
Drop us a comment!

until next time....Anne

Snow...Hike....Ski....Repeat....

2010-01-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

It was a 'blue bird' day in the central mountains of Colorado and we finally got a few inches of snow at the ski area that we frequent. It was a small amount of snow but enough to get us up skiing for a few hours. It was warm with zero wind so I figured we needed to do some hiking to untracked powder.

We rode up to the top of chair #4 at Loveland Ski Area and then bombed it down to where you start your hike up to 'Tickler'. And yes, it tickles your funny bone to ski up at this altitude. You definitely have to put on your 'big girl panties' to ski this terrain!

The photo above is our hike up to the good stuff. The guy right in front of hubbie Jim asked him if he was on steroids because he caught up to them so fast. I think he is a little overzealous because we haven't had that great of a snow year....yet.

Here are a couple of photos of the same tree this season compared to last season.

Fortunately for Tess, her region has been getting slammed with snow this year. What gives? Oh well...that is the breaks and it makes you work that much harder to get the freshies.

So we skied 'Tickler'...guess which tracks are mine?? Hint...not the 'knuckle dragger' tracks on the far right....

From there we cruised over to A-Tow which is a term for a 'stash' we go to find powder. It is actually where one of the original tow ropes (yes, the ones that rip your gloves to shreds) was located at Loveland back in the day. I recently bought a book called "Powder Ghost Towns" by Peter Bronski...Epic Back-Country Runs in Colorado's Lost Ski Resorts. This book makes my husband feel really old because when he was a kid he had ski races at many of these defunct ski areas. My son loves it because he is a 'VINTAGE' junkie...not sure where he inherited that from? Odd how these things pop up in the genetics??

Anyway, we hiked over to A-Tow and it felt like we were skiing in wet cement. I had about 6" of snow packed all along the bottoms of my skis. Jim kept reminding me while I was 'cussing out my ski tuner person' that I am the one who said I wanted a work out. Well, I got one that is for sure.

We got out of that 'sticky' situation and Jim went back to his beloved 'steeps' of Loveland. I decided to hit the 'Ridge' one more time since the weather was just too perfect not to. I snapped a photo of Gray's and Torrey's Peaks which are two Fourteeners of Colorado.

I should mention that we have hiked these two and have skied down Torrey's. Now that was a day to be on your toes! Oh by the way, sorry Mom...ahhhhh...I didn't mention it to you because I am aware of how you worry just a touch...and yes I am preparing myself since I have a daredevil daughter....stay tuned....

Well, I guess I should stop this babbling on incessantly about our ski day. It was not an epic powder day but fun none the less. I will mention one more site which is ColoradoSkiHistory which is one of my son's favorite websites! Check it out!

P.S. Shadow objects are larger than they appear!

P.S.S. Knuckle draggers=see photo....

Until next time...Anne

Cute and Cuddly Etsy Shop....

2010-01-27T15:48:00.000-08:00

Today I was looking around on Etsy and I came across this super cute site and I thought of my niece's one year old daughter! The site is called Sighfoo and the designer makes adorable creatures out of recycled and felted wool sweaters. I have made things out of felted wool sweaters as well but only something that is square and made into a pouch. But these stuffed animals take the cake! How fun and creative. It looks like she also has another shop with lampwork glass jewelry she makes as well called Starvingartistbazaar. Yet again I have found a super fun shop on Etsy!

Check out Andy Foo...Isn't he cute?

Or...Thomas Foo....

Now I just need to decide which one of these little cuties would be best for Avery! I can just picture her clutching onto one of these fun and unique toys!

Until next time.....Anne

Into Yoga

2010-01-25T16:06:00.001-08:00

Recognizing after the first of the year that I had four ski events lined up to participate in, I quickly determined that I needed to get into better shape. My bike is shoe-horned into the house on its training wheels - and it gets a spin fairly frequently. We've also been skiing fairly regularly, but the recent warming trend has resulted in less than optimal conditions for that activity. When friend JackiePak got me tuned into a 5 week special for yoga, it took me about 30 minutes to decide to sign up. With the condition that we would go together to the first class, of course!

Corepower Yoga offers a great selection of classes from beginner to advanced. I'm still at the beginner stage, but have noticed something quite remarkable. I feel stronger, more flexible and a little less 'klut-sey". I feel like I sit and stand taller - and breathe more deeply.

For thousands of years, people have been practicing yoga for inward reflection, emotional release, centering, and of course for the exercise, strength-building and flexibility enhancing side-effects. I have found that I'm much more calm and relaxed after yoga class. The poses and stretching are a great work-out for me.

Last week, JackiePak and I decided to try Yoga Sculpt. This is not as innocuous as it sounds. There is no clay involved. What a great cardio and strengthening work-out! It's yoga with weights - and faster! I'm sure we were two of the oldest people there, and I know that at least 85% of the participants in this class were young enough to be my daughter. But I know that I will do this more and more. After class we got the low-down on who the best (translate: easiest) instructors are for the sculpt class.

The cool thing is that my membership is good at any studio, so I'm presently bouncing between Minneapolis and St. Paul. I did recently learn that (after my special intro deal ends), I quality for a sr. discount! Every instructor I have had has been great. I am hooked! I am certain that yoga is something that I will do for many years to come.

Kathy

Old ranch in Southwest Colorado

2010-01-23T15:13:00.000-08:00

This is my neighbor's land up on Summit Ridge. The Mtns on the horizon are Mesa Verde National Park and the Ute Mtn Ute land. The majority of the people that settled the summit ridge area are Hispanic and ranched primarily cattle and sheep. There are a lot of sheep herders around this area though. They typically take their sheep up in the high country in the summer months and bring them back down in the winter.

The Pyranese, Border Collie, and Australian shepherd dogs are very popular down in the Montezuma, Western slope, and San Luis Valley of Southern Colorado. There are a lot of Pyranese dogs that guard herds up near the LaPlata and Lizard Head Mtns as well. The Great Pyranese has always been a favorite dog breed of mine, and when one landed on my doorstep in 2005, I had no choice but to adopt it. She (Poncha) had a brother but was either killed or run over. Poncha is a real lovable dog, although she licks a lot and has a mind of her own. She is actually a Pyranese mixed breed. If you ever have a herd of sheep and need to protect your herd from wolves, coyotes, or other predator's, get yourself a Great Pyranese.
http://clubs.akc.org/gpca/ghist.html

While we are at it. Ski jump #1

2010-01-22T11:28:00.000-08:00

Epic Ski videos of us above Aspen, Colorado. These are priceless. Tess

Jason doing a jump with some whiskey in him before noon. Listen to Eric and Anner laughing. Funny.

The Girls up at Loveland Valley -circa 1989 /

2010-01-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Judging by everyone's oversized glasses of different colors, this must of been on the tail end of the 80's. I really like Anner's shades. It's like wayfarers but white. Made for some great racoon eyes in the winter. This was taken at the Valley I believe when Anner was working for skier services. I have more photos if anyone is interested.

You know me. We built a shed just for my stuff, which is mostly photos. Enjoy. Tess

the life of a ski bum...

2010-01-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

My name is Anne Johnstone and yes...I am a ski bum.

The reason that I have not gone out and gotten a "real job" is because my parents introduced me to skiing at a young age. Yup, I am blaming it on my parents. All of those romantic stories about skiing the most incredible snow in Alta, Utah and Aspen, Colorado really had an affect on my young brain.

Because my parents are skiers and made a point of taking us skiing all the time...be it downhill or cross country... I feel that I can safely blame my ski bum life style on them. And nope, I am not going to feel bad about it. Every type of skiing I have done on that wonderful cold white stuff has brought me so much joy over the years. I moved to Colorado, the most awesome place to downhill ski in the world for crimeny sake. See, you can tell that I am a ski bum because I can't spell a word that for all I know is a made up word. Maybe I should Google it.

Skiing has changed a lot over the years. There are the new shaped fat boards that are "oh so fun" for those 'terrain park punks' with baggy pants, huge jackets made for giants and those lovely Gramma crocheted hats...See?...can you say 'run on sentence'? I can't even write a normal sentence without rambling on and on and on.... and on.......

Tess and I are still kicking ourselves for not mass producing those dandy crocheted beanies.... Our Gramma's would have been so proud.

Skiing in today's times comes with every accessory you can imagine....fleece neck ups, helmets, goggles that don't fog, gore-tex, soft shells, I-pods for jammin' to tunes, heated boots, killer shades and hand warmers....yes, hand warmers. Can you believe it?

When we got to go downhill skiing as kids we were PUMPED! We got on the chairlift first thing when they opened and kept on skiing until the chair closed. By the way, this was in Minnesota where it wasn't balmy and warm like it is in Colorado. I remember my sister Angela and I wearing our hooded sweatshirts backwards so we could flip the hoods over our faces for the ride up the chair. Such great conversations were had going up the lift....NOT! The frozen lift attendants hated us by the end of the day because we were the last ones on the chair and we weren't about to stop skiing until they closed. Our eyelids were frosted together and we were forming ice beards on our facial hair. Facial hair you say? Yup...I said it...so there...what are you gonna do about it?

Those were the days....Thank you Dad and Mom for introducing us to skiing for where would I be without it in my life? I met my my hubby at a ski area...not sure if I should thank you for that or not. But, he's here now and you just gotta love him even with his "foot in mouth disease".

And yes...I would probably have some kick butt job traveling around the world as a famous photographer or something but I would have missed out on all of those powder days...something I just can't bare to think of. Unless I would have become a ski photographer or something...DANG...now I think of it! Ugh!

Anyway...

Send us some of your fun childhood memories of skiing or other memories of the great things your parents did for you....we would love to hear it!

Here is a VIDEO I made....check it out...WOW, I could have been a film maker...I always think of things too late.

Until next time....Anne the ski bum.....

Barbara Jean Johnstone

2010-01-15T12:32:00.000-08:00

I got up this morning, knowing that is was Barbara's Birthday. She would have been 48 years old. You know the saying "Time heals all wounds" I really don't think that is true. I know that I still think about her all the time. I wish she was here now. I have so much to talk to her about.

The thing I remember most about her was her getting up long before we had to go to school to get ready. She changed clothes about ten times before she was satisfied. She was the prettiest girl in school. A lot of boys would hand me notes to give to her but I would just throw them away. I was really proud of her though and she had a lot of talent.

I also remember playing Volleyball and Basketball with her. Those were the times I remember the most.
I remember we had to scrimmage with the Girl's basketball team from Moose Lake. Those girls had a great coach and they went to the State tournament for about 3 years in a row. You know who got those girls in shape to go to State???? The Mora Girl's Basketball team, namely me and Barbara. We successfully out rebounded those girls and even made the star player cry during the scrimmage in Mora. I think Barbara did that. I could go on and on about this but I mainly remember their coach coming up to Barbara and I, telling us to "Give em Hell" under the boards. This would be the only way that they would get in shape for the girls that awaited them down at the State tournament. I still remember the girl that walked to the side of the court sobbing because Barbara and I were pushing her around. I guess. Following the game, the coach came up and thanked us for giving them some real action before they were to depart for Minneapolis the following week. I do think that they were runner up to the team from New York Mills and their star player Janet Karvenon. Those were the days that I will never forget. Tess

Bon Appetit! Julie and Julia the Movie

2010-01-13T06:50:00.000-08:00

I watched the movie Julie and Julia the other night and I found it to be a refreshing and fun story. It is about a girl named Julie Powell who decides to start a blog about cooking every one of Julia Childs recipes from her book "Mastering the Art of French Cooking." She gave herself one year to cook 524 recipes. It was a fun movie that combined Julia Childs and Julie Powells memoirs in one. Of course Meryl Streep was incredible...she is an amazing actress.

I have to admit I did not know much about Julia Childs. I only knew that she had a cooking show on television when I was a kid and that she had a very 'interesting' voice. Of course the Saturday Night Live skit that Dan Aykroyd did sticks out in my mind as well. Watch the skit and then watch this other video with the 'real' Julia Childs. I hope to read more about her. She seemed so happy, positive and real.

I have to admit that eating French food every day for a while is truly an experience. The five course meals were more than I could handle. Eating out in France is a lengthy process...you do not go in to a restaurant and expect to leave in an hour. Try four hours or more! Being a waiter or a chef is a coveted job and they get paid well for it. The chefs in France truly are rock stars. Plus the wine in France is cheaper than buying a bottled water. OOOOlala!

Now I am not claiming to be a great cook, baker or a domestic goddess but the movie did give some inspiration. Julie Powell wrote a blog and it gained many, many followers...I figured with electricity, a computer and an internet connection all things are possible! Yes, there are zillions of blogs out there in cyberspace. But, we can make ours stand out in the crowd by posting fun, interesting and helpful blog posts for the world to read! Isn't the world wide web amazing? Please tell us some of your memories of Julia Childs or any other fun travel adventures!

That is all for now...Enjoy and Bon Appetit!

Anne

It's Been A While!

2010-01-11T07:29:00.000-08:00

I think we are all recovering from the holidays and are playing catch up so we haven't been blogging lately. The last post was about the Johnstone Tree Farm and it included a really cool video that Kathy made. A big thank you to GGG, our guest blogger for writing up the post about the tree farm. Lots of good times were had over the years "Up North" at the family deer shack. One thing we forgot to mention was the story about Tess and our sister Barbara pruning Christmas trees on the same tree. Bad idea...Tess has a funny looking finger that was almost sliced off by Barbara with the pruning shears. An accident of course...but she does have the reminder of that day by the shape of her middle finger. It has a permanent 'flipping the bird' look to it. The story she told me was that a t-shirt was wrapped around it and she went back to pruning trees. Now that is devotion! But hopefully they went to separate trees!

I think we all had a nice holiday break though. Tons of drinking, cookie eating, weight gain. Tess and I did do some back country and cross country skiing that was a lot of fun. It took the guilt out of all the excessive eating and drinking. Here is a photo of us at Jones Pass. A nice long hike up and a fast descent down. What a gorgeous day it was!

Anyway, my plan is to get my shop stocked back up and to keep on enjoying the outdoors as much as possible. What are your plans?

Until next time.....Anne

Oh, Christmas Tree!

2009-12-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

Oh, Christmas Tree! Oh, Christmas Tree!
Thy leaves are so unchanging.
Not only green when summer's here,

But also when 'tis cold and drear.

Oh, Christmas Tree! Oh, Christmas Tree!

How richly God has decked thee!

This post is a tribute to our Dad and Mom - who with great foresight, devotion and hard work - created a Johnstone family Christmas tree tradition that will be remembered by many for years to come. After 45 years, the business is winding down. But Angie is ensuring that a small plantation is maintained up north by the cabin to provide trees for family and friends for years to come.

We have asked our "guest blogger", Dave, to write the tribute. Kathryn Johnstone Grafsgaard

By Dave:

I got in on the tradition of the Johnstone Christmas tree business about a decade ago. The only reason I’m writing this post is because the sisters handmade are still hand making for the people who decide to order Christmas gifts at the last minute, or for their own gift-giving needs.

A few times on the way back from deer camp I would stop and help cut trees on the Johnstone tree farm adjoining the house, and at the property "Up North". Glen had carefully marked the trees so a knucklehead like me didn’t cut the wrong one. At the time, these trees were shuttled over to Glen’s Tire, where they were sold in the parking lot. Several times a season a run needed to be made Up North to grab a few more trees to restock the homemade wagon wheel tree stands at the tire store. Glen is not a guy to give up on a vehicle and on one such trip the hood latch broke at 60mph on Hwy 65. We just pulled over, yanked the hood down, and wired it to the bumper. No big deal.

When the trees got to Mora and were purchased, the dead needles were shaken off in Glen’s invention, the Rube Goldberg-like ‘Shake-O-Matic’, a contraption into which the trunk was inserted into, the unit switched on, and then shook the hell out of the tree. Lots of people in Mora and the surrounding area bought their trees from Glen and probably more people, including the Catholic Church, were given trees. Glen and Jean,being very charitable folks, have often given trees to those who stop by right before Christmas after likely spending most of their limited funds on gifts for their family. This is a labor of love for them.

The tree planting began in the early ‘60s. Margie, daughter 2, remembers trips Up North with her little girlfriends to walk behind Glen during planting and stomp the seedlings in. Once they are planted they need to be sheared in the heat of the summer. With the heat, humidity, and a mosquito or two (thousand) this is not the most popular part of the Christmas tree business. Daughter Angie has stepped up over the years for this thankless task and as a result the trees always looked great. Angie continues her tireless efforts to help manage the plantation.

Thanksgiving weekend each year marks the beginning of the cutting. Kathy, the eldest, remembers being stuck under a pine tree in the snow Up North and told to keep an eye on her younger sisters, of which there were only a couple at the time, while Glen went off to cut trees. She figures she was about five years old at the time.

I was supposed to arrive for cutting one Saturday morning at 9am to help Glen and Angie’s hubby Paul. I rolled in to the tire store at around 9:45 and when they asked me what the holdup had been, I told them I had stopped by the house and was filled in on the morning plan by Angie. Knowing nods and the remark that ‘in that case I was right on time’ followed.

The idea to sell Christmas trees was initially to make a few extra bucks for Christmas presents for the rapidly expanding Johnstone clan. The first trees sold for a buck in 1964. In 2008 dollars a buck would be about $7.50 so tree costs have not outpaced the Consumer Price Index by much. Jean’s main job was as the ‘tree twirler’. The tree needed to be spun around so the discerning prospective buyer could make sure the entire tree fit the space and décor in their house. Of course most guys would just head down and buy the first tree they see without paying much attention, much less requesting a ‘twirl'. Many of them would be back shortly with a sheepish look on their face after being ripped by the missus, and instructed a bit more specifically on what they needed to look for. You can bet these guys asked for a twirl.

David, 5th kid in the clan, now owns Glen's Tire - and has contributed a great deal to the sales at the 'shop'. Living the closest to home, he has always been loyal and 'on call' for the tree business - often offering the services of his great employees in a pinch. Mark, the 9th 'kid' in the family, being a tree guy and lumber professional - is 'jack of all trades', and is always around to lend a hand. Tess, Anner and Erik offer moral support from Colorado and when back in Minnesota are sure to be Up North surveying and enjoying the land.

There are lots of great stories! One memorable incident occurred when an over the road trucker, deadheading home, cut a ‘Charlie Brown’ tree from the side of the road. When he noticed the beautiful trees at Glen’s Tire as he rolled down Hwy 23, he figured he better stop and get a decent one to avoid any marital criticism when he arrived home. Unfortunately he was tapped out, no money. Jean gave him the tree and wished him a merry Christmas. On his next run through Mora he stopped and paid her for the tree.

Over the years many folks were given trees and a number of trees were delivered right to people’s home, a mission that I’ve participated in a few times. One time a customer was looking for a specific size and type of tree and the perfect tree was growing right in the front yard of the Johnstone home. Glen cut er’ down and the customer went off with a tree and a great story as well.

A few years back a new priest arrived in Mora after doing a stint in Africa. He was so pumped about the snow and winter that he insisted in heading Up North with Glen to cut down two perfectly matched trees for the front of St Mary’s Catholic Church. The duo made this trip an annual event for a few years.

Since 1964 there have been thousands of trees planted, sheared, pruned, cut, shaken, sold, and enjoyed by families in countless homes, businesses and places of worship all over the Mora area and beyond. A tree always made it back to North Dakota on the roof of Kathy's car on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. It was tradition! She and two tired little boys would set it up quickly Sunday night - ready to decorate during the week.

As I sit and type this post I’m looking at and smelling a perfect white pine, my favorite tree on the planet, that came from Glen and Jean’s land. Its hard to overstate all the hard work that went into the trees but as I look at our white pine (large retro colored lights that we had when I was a kid, by the way) I have to figure it was worth it. If you think of all the folks that have experienced the same enjoyment that we are over the years, the people that bought or were given trees, it has to make Glen and Jean smile just a little bit inside. It was a great run.

Hand Dyed Wool Turned Felted Stash Bowl

2009-12-21T08:01:00.000-08:00

In a previous post I talked about my adventures with hand dying wool with black walnuts. I managed to turn the wool into something and I wanted to share it. Imagine that...a felted bowl! The color ended up being much lighter than I wanted but it is a lovely winter white.

Containers, organizers, declutter baskets, stash bowls, jewelry holder...I just can't seem to get enough of these. I have felted bowls all over the place in my house. I am surprised that I can keep my shop stocked up because my daughter steals all the cute ones she wants to keep.

On this bowl I added a little leather lacing for embellishment which can be used to hang earrings! (a shout out to my mother in law for that idea)

I have other felted stash bowls in my Etsy shop in which I have added embellishments. It adds a little character to each bowl. I have also been making personalized bowls with names, inspirational words and so on. I recently made one for a customer with her business name on it...kind of fun!

Check out the funky earrings (see photo) that I made for my daughter.

They are felted swirls in her favorite color and the other pair is a chain of felted circles. She told me recently that people at school tell her she has the coolest earrings. She is still young enough to admit to her friends that her Mom made them. I will take the compliments from her while I can...teenage years are right around the corner.

Until next time...Anne

The Jyri Scarf by Berrocco- Norah Gaughan

2009-12-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

This summer we were camping in Grand Junction with Anner, Jimmy and kids, and Nancy Koepsel. We were up for the weekend biking at Kokopelli bike trails, just west of Grand Junction. While we were there, we were looking at this catalog that sold very very expensive clothes but they were really beautiful. On the front page of the catalog was a lady modeling a sweater, leggings, and a very nice cashmere scarf. I said to Nancy, "What is about this picture that looks weird" She said that "there is no snow". Yes, it was one of those models you see holding a pair of skis and you know for sure by looking at the ski equipment and the model, that they have never skied in their lives. For some reason, I am attracted to the old photos taken of people with skis, even if they don't know how to ski. I love all the vintage photos from the old days. I have a whole bunch of them and will get them organized and share them someday. If anyone has any old photos to share, please do so. I love looking at them and reading about where it was taken.
This photo was taken by Jason. I was modeling a scarf that I made for my friend Marilyn. Thank God there was some snow in the photo! Tess

colourmart yak/mohair/silk/merino

Slide Show of our Hand Made Items Using Smilebox

2009-12-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

I have been playing around with slide show programs today. I thought I would give this one by Smilebox a try. I loaded photos from our Etsy websites and here is the result. Let me know what you think.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Treasury Made it to Front Page of Etsy!

2009-12-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

I wanted to give a shout out to all the sellers included in this treasury.
I also wanted to see if I could add this cool widget into my blog post and it looks like it works!

I posted about Possum Season Treasury created by TheVintageBearLair. I received a message today that it made it to the Front Page of Etsy!

Congratulations to all of the sellers selected and thanks to TheVintageBearLair for including us!

Anne

Finally have a moment to take a few runs.

2009-12-15T14:47:00.000-08:00

Magnus has been busy working up on the North sea as an Environment Engineer but decided to take a trip to the States. He Flew into Albuquerque New Mexico and traveled throughout the western half of the US and finally found some snow in southern Colorado. Magnus is a telemark skier and has been skiing ever since he was a kid. He has some relatives up near Denver Co so he will eventually end up there during the Christmas Holiday. I think that he is happy to be on vacation and skiing in the worlds best snow. Well, hopefully he will get to experience some more powder before he departs for Oslo, Norway in January.

Tess

Felted Nesting Bowls Featured in a EtsyTreasury!

2009-12-13T11:50:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I don't mean to 'toot my own horn' but I thought it was interesting that I had just written about creating a treasury and then I was featured in one. Happy Day!

Recently I wrote about creating a treasury on Etsy which is a website where you can sell your handmade items.
Today I received a message from TheVintageBearLair informing me that she selected my felted nesting bowls for her treasury. How fun! I thought I would go ahead and mention a few of the other sellers that were selected. Some of the sellers that stood out for me were Stemellina from Athens Greece. The photo of the felted necklace is listed in her shop. Her items are gorgeous! She creates felted brooches, earrings, hair pins and much more.

Another seller lisazain has a pair of vintage suede oxford lace up pumps listed in her shop. How fun are they? She has vintage shoes, bags and other fun items.

Etsy, besides being a place to sell handmade items, is also a site that has lots of vintage shops. The items have to be older than 20 years...hey girls...maybe we should look through our closets to see what cool items are hiding in there.

One more shop that is super fun in this treasury is Blubies. This seller creates cute cuddly creatures with socks and felt. She is inspired by her surroundings in the Blue Mountains of Australia. I will definitely be researching this region to learn more about it. Check out these fun shops on Etsy and let's continue to support the handmade community. There is something for everyone!

Here is the link for the treasury...Check it out ...
Possum Season Treasury

Until next time...Anne

Creating a Treasury on Etsy.com

2009-12-10T12:56:00.000-08:00

I have been working on putting together a treasury on Etsy. Etsy is a site where you can set up shop and sell your handmade goods. It is an awesome site and there are tons of talented people selling on this site. A treasury is a list of sixteen items plus four alternate items that you choose. It is not for self promotion but to show case other wonderful sellers. The other great reason to create one or be featured in one is that they sometimes make it to the Front Page of Etsy. This is like striking gold for the handmade seller. If people can see you featured on the main page then there is a chance of success which is wonderful!

I of course included my two sisters who have shops which are kmgrafsgaard and mjstoneleather. They are super talented and make wonderful items! Kathy specializes in devotional beaded jewelry such as rosaries which are spectacular. Her inspiration comes from the Great Lakes region where she spends tons of time. This region feeds her soul and it comes across in her jewelry pieces. A popular seller for her are the Psalm 23 bracelets which are breathtaking. Margie has been in love with leather for as long as I can remember. She still gets giddy every time her shipment of leather arrives in the mail. She worked for Berman's in Minneapolis which was established originally in the late 1800's as a hide and raw fur dealer. This is a great indicator that her items are made from pure L*O*V*E. Check out their links or click through to their shops from our blog. Maybe Margie will fill us in on the history of the Berman's company which eventually became Wilson's Leather.

In my search for treasury items I have discovered shops that make items with stones, metal, fibers, beads, leather and much more. One particular shop I found while browsing around was ConnectedElements. This gal is from northern Minnesota and her shop consists of jewelry pieces that are made from stones, different metals, glass and the items are truly unique and interesting. Another shop I found called LimeGreenModern is based in Colorado. She makes very modern and simple silver jewelry pieces which are classic and stylish.

Yet another shop is LinenMe...she has purchased from me in the past and is from Lithuania. She makes linens to die for! I love her linen hand made scarves and hope to purchase one from her someday soon.

I am having a couple of problems in creating my treasury and that is waiting for a spot to open up. You have to wait until the treasury number drops to 333 which is a bit difficult to have the patience and time for. The second is deciding who to include since there are hundreds of incredible shops to choose from. I did find a helpful tool called poster sketch where you can make a "sample" of your list and arrange it like you want. This helps a lot so when you do get a spot you are ready to go.

Wish me luck and hopefully I will snag a treasury spot very soon.

Until next time....Anne

USS Arizona

2009-12-07T09:58:00.000-08:00

Pearl Harbor

2009-12-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

It seems like when this day comes around, I think of all the soldiers and citizens that went through this surprise attack from Japanese zeros on Dec 7, 1941. In 2005, we finally got to see the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. We went to the visitor center early in the morning and got in line to visit the Memorial out in the bay. We ended up being the last two to get on the launch for the first wave of visitors.
Once we got out there, we got off the boat and walked around the Memorial and nobody said a word. For nearly a half hour, we just looked into the water and onto the shores of where the USS Arizona was moored. The boat was resting on the bottom of the bay and you could see the hull but that is about it. We could see the docks where all the battleships were. The Arizona was not the only ship that got hit. There were a lot of fatalities on the other ships as well. If I remember right, the Park Rangers told us that a lot of the larger carriers were out to sea so it could have been a lot worse than it was.

If this isn't on your bucket list of things to do, I would highly recommend a visit. Tess

US 2 1/2-ton, 6x6 Trucks in WW II

2009-12-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

Most people call them Duece and a 1/2 but in WWII, these trucks were the workhorse of the war. They typically hauled medical supplies, troops, and ammunition. They were made by GMC in 1941 and nearly 800,000 were made. There were other manufacturers but GMC was noted to have the best design and capabilities. The original design was powered by gasoline but in later years was converted to diesel truck.
The duece and 1/2 was also used in the Korean War, Vietnam, and some use in Afghanistan. The trucks that were used in Vietnam were under daily attacks by the Vietcong guerillas so they mounted armoured plates and armed the trucks with 2 x M60 7.62mm machine guns. This allowed the soldiers to get supplies to the fronts. In the first photo, The U.S. Ninth Army GMC CCKW truck, just after crossing the Rhine River, March 1945.

The second photo is another duece and 1/2 that is used at Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Thunderbird tour company uses these trucks to do tours in the canyon and the Canyon de Chelly maintenance uses them to run supplies into the canyon. These little stray kitties were sunning themselves on the hood of the truck last week.

www.olive-drab.com/idphoto/id_photos_cckw.php3
Tess

Back to "Class" at the Kennedy School

2009-12-03T05:52:00.000-08:00

We are heading to Portland, Oregon this morning to visit GGG's oldest son and his lovely significant other. This is a repeat of last December's trip to this fabulous city.

We will be making a return visit to The Kennedy School - one of the very unique McMenamin properties. This is wonderful school was built in about 1915 in a trend-setting single story design. It was saved from the wrecking ball in 1997 by McMenemins and local supporters. Check the website for more history - it is fascinating!

In my former career as North Dakota's 'chief lunch lady', I traveled to Portland and other cities frequently. But traveling for work - especially with little guys at home - left no extra time for exploring destination areas. I am enjoying travel much more now, since it is a true vacation.

I wasn't able to check out the school lunch program (I instinctively head for the lunch room when I get to a school) at the Kennedy School last year because the cafeteria has been transformed into a restaurant for hotel guests. But in addition to other art in the building, we came across this vintage National School Lunch Week poster. I just had to have my photo taken by it - for old time's sake!

We are really looking forward to another stay at this fun place - and showing it to our traveling companions, Deb and Rick. I can hardly wait to see the 18' spruce Christmas tree in the lobby, and a visit to the "Boiler Room Bar". We will be 'sleeping in class' again this year - as the classrooms are the hotel suites. They retain the original blackboards, have plenty of chalk for doodling, and are loaded with charm.

This hotel is a Portland treasure, and I highly recommend it! More later....
Kathy

Dolls, Dolls and more Dolls....

2009-12-01T08:37:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid I did not want to have anything to do with dolls, dresses or anything 'girly'. Bring up this topic to my Mom and she will tell you...I was a pill. I remember First Communion when I refused to wear the traditional white dress. My Mom, exasperated by her youngest daughter, finally relented by letting me wear a lovely corduroy green blazer and pant ensemble. I was so tres sheik in my Dorothy Hamill haircut and boyish blazer. I figured she had plenty of girls to dress up all feminine and frilly. I was the last girl and she did have six other girls to play dress up with. (just joking Mom) I was such a Tom Boy that the only dolls I would play with were the Johnny and Jane West dolls which were dolls straight out of a western movie scene. Click on the link to check out the commercial which is pretty funny. I did love these dolls, horses and all of the accessories they came with. I have seen them in antique stores with very high price tags. I suppose a person could check out Ebay for one of these retro items...*pondering if one needs a Jane West doll*

Anyway, I found this great site with information about the history of the Kewpie doll. Tess recently posted about her kewpie doll and I did some further research on the subject. Check out the "Margie" kewpie doll isn't she sweet? Did I just say a doll looked sweet? But seriously, isn't she sweet? Ok...truth be known, I don't mind dolls but only the ones handmade by my Grandmas and of course the Tom Boy dolls from the Marx Toy Company.

Our Grandmas were very artistic, crafty and talented. They gave their daughters and granddaughters many dolls over the years and I have a few in my home. The two women had totally different styles but were equally as talented. Grandma Stafford hand stitched all of the detailing on her doll clothes. Incredible!

Here are two photos showing their different doll making styles. The doll in the long gown is a president's wife (I believe) and was made by my Grandma Stafford...does she look familiar to anyone? The little girl doll with freckles and hand crocheted dress was made by my Grandma Fritche. Isn't she cute?

If there is anyone who knows about the history of the kewpie doll or loves to make dolls...send us a comment...we would love to hear from you. Of course I would love to hear about anyone else who was obsessed with Johnny and Jane West dolls...

I will close for now so I can go have "flashbacks" about playing with my Tom Boy dolls, with my Dorothy Hamill haircut and dreaming of the day I could get a real horse. ahhh those were the days...

Until next time...Anne

Kewpie Doll by Cameo

2009-11-29T18:48:00.000-08:00

The little doll I found in my storage shed was the Kewpie doll. After doing some checking, this doll was manufactured from the Cameo company out of Port Allegany Pa. in 1974.
I think the clothes were either made from Grandma Stafford or Fritche. It looks a bit more like Grandma Fritche's work though. Does anyone know anything more about the Kewpie dolls?

Tess

Green Cleaning

2009-11-29T17:01:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year I decided that I'd had enough of expensive laundry detergents and decided to make my own, and have done so ever since. I scouted the internet for a recipe and proceeded to make my first batch. And it was very easy. Here's the recipe:

Homemade Laundry Soap

1/3 bar Fels Naptha Soap
1/2 cup washing soda
1/2 cup borax
2 gal. bucket

Grate soap in a saucepan. Add 6 c.water and heat until it melts.
Add washing soda and borax; stir until dissolved. Remove from heat.
Pour 4 cups hot water in a bucket, now add soap mixture and stir.
Now add 1 gal. plus 6 cups of water and stir.
Let soap sit for 24 hours and it will gel.

Use 1/2 cup per load.
Don't wait for any soap suds, you won't get them.
I feel this laundry soap has been doing fine job, has saved me lots of money and has been much gentler on the environment.

I'd also like to mention two other cleaning products that make rather than buying the expensive, sometimes caustic products. The first is an all-purpose cleaner.
In a 32 oz. spray bottle combine 1/4 c. white vinegar, 3 1/2 c. hot water, and 1/4 c. liquid dish soap. Mix thoroughly. Label the bottle. I have this handy in the kitchen and use it daily.

The other is a window and glass cleaner. Mix into a spray bottle 1 Tablespoon white vinegar, 1/2 rubbing alcohol and 1 quart of water. For best results use a small squeegee to remove excess water. Polish with a soft. clean, lintless cloth. Label the bottle.

Distilled white vinegar disinfects and helps break up dirt, Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol disinfects and borax disinfects, bleaches and deodorizes. Simple, everyday products that are safer for you, save money and are kinder to the environment.
Sources for the last two products National Geographic's Green Guide, " Rachael Ray at Associated content and Mom's Guide to Growing your Family Green," by Terra Weillington (St. Martin's Press).
There are many more ideas out there for cleansing scrubs, oven cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners and daily shower cleaners.

Vintage Dolls

2009-11-29T11:50:00.000-08:00

I don't know how many people admit to playing with dolls but we all know now that Anner and my Mom play with their dolls. I was looking for a doll to give to Avery and I found one that I got a long time ago from Grandma Stafford. I knew I had the dolls but they were in a box in the shed so I decided to drag them out. It has to be old but I haven't really researched it yet. This doll might looked familiar to some of you. If you know the history, feel free to elaborate.
I also remember a doll that was in Grandma and Grandpa's house at Mud Lake. Her name was Clatilda. She now belongs to Margie. Tess

Leaving My Rut

2009-11-29T05:36:00.001-08:00

Since I'm just a recreational / hobby jewelry maker, I don't stay tuned in to the trends very well. I have found products that work well for me and, out of habit, have continued to use them. For example, sterling silver French hooks. Always a winner, and very popular. And still in demand.

But there is more out there! And I am now officially going to get out of my rut.

The online environment for handmade, vintage and supplies - Etsy - (where 3 of us have shops) - is a fantastic place to locate supplies. I have found a couple of wonderful shops - Desert Fire Designs , for fabulous beads and chain - and Beads 4 All - where I can find bronze. Both of these sellers are friendly and professional. The products are exceptional.

I have just located another shop that I intend to check out today. I am interested in these handforged almond ear wires for Christmas gifts. Never heard of almond ear wires before - but look how sleek and modern they look. They would be great with a fabulous crystal or stone attached. Credit goes to the shop - Rockis Supplies for the photo, and the inspiration! I will be shopping today!

I have always tried to support main street businesses. When I was in Bismarck, this was very simple. A quick walk or drive downtown - 1 stoplight. I walk into the bead store where the owners are my friends, and they start heading toward the sterling silver case because they know that is what I am after. They share their ideas, fill me in on some special stones that will be coming in and always tell me in advance about the sales.

But living in Minneapolis is a completely different story. The closest bead shop with the best selection is in Uptown. If you are not familiar with Uptown - it's a young, hip and happenin' neighborhood just south of downtown. There are lofts, trendy hair salons, great restaurants, and lots of tatoos. I feel very old when I enter this neighborhood. At the bead store, the snooty young lady with the cat-eye glasses and jeans folded up on the bottom (to her knees - why do they do that? Looks like she's wearing GGG's jeans only she's about 22" around the middle) looks at me like I'm on 'leave' from the nursing home. She watches me warily to make sure that I'm not going to 'boost beads'. When she is confident that I am probably an honest customer - she goes back to her bead counting and sorting. I have to work very hard to get her attention when I have a question, or want to pay and leave. Also, it takes me 15 minutes and 15 stoplights to get here on my work noon hour. So add that to the 'waiting to get noticed' and check out - plus my return trip - pretty much burns the entire hour.

Why do this?

It will be less and less - that's for sure. I am leaving this rut too! I now have favorite sellers on etsy, where there is a relationship and loyalty forming. I give these marvelous women and men credit for creating a great personal shopping experience in an online environment. It is not as easy as one might think!

Kathy

ps - by the way, I try to not look as elderly as I am by using natural products from JoyfulGirlNatural on etsy. The products are wonderful and a great value. I will never buy Estee Lauder again (sorry Estee!). When the packaging is too complicated to open and is worth more than the product inside - you know it is time to move on....but that's another story.

Vintage Sweater

2009-11-28T11:23:00.000-08:00

I finally got Avery's sweater done. The pattern had one large button on the top and since I don't know how to knit button holes, I just knit a small I-cord for the closure. I had left over yarn so I knit a small hat, and baby skinny scarf. Hey, I wonder if they make baby skinny jeans??

This sweater is so soft and it really reminds me of Grandma Stafford's sweaters, although there is a mistake in the cable. I was going to pull it all out but the gal that owns the knitting shop told me that if i pulled it out that she was going to beat me. Ha Ha!!!! Tess

Drop Spindle

2009-11-28T10:44:00.000-08:00

I finally got the roving back from Marilyn last week. She spun the first round on this Baltic top merino and told me that I should take a crack at it. If you remember from one of the blogs, Marilyn used her Mom's Navajo Spindle, which is a lot bigger than the one I have. It looks a lot easier watching ladies spin on a spinning wheel but it was fun. The thing about spinning is that you get totally engaged in it and you don't think about much else. I had the music going and it was probably about 68 degrees or so. This yarn is a bit chunky and slubby. The definition of slubby is where you get kind of a thick and thin or at least that is what I gathered from the gal I bought the spindle from. We'll see how it comes out after I knit that hat. I think Anner said she might have some lime colored accent yarn that I will do the fair Isle with. Stay tuned for the finished product. Tess

Sweet Breads

2009-11-25T08:40:00.000-08:00

We were invited to our neighbors last Sunday night and they had the recipe books out on the table trying to figure out some ideas to make for Christmas gifts. Well, other than knitting and buying some cheap gifts for the kids, I was thinking of doing some baking. I know that this is nothing new but I had never really baked during the Holidays. This year I will try some sweet bread and maybe some type of dessert to make for my close friends down here. Other than fruit cake, does anyone have any other ideas for baking over the Holiday? Thanks, Tess

Sonoran Desert

2009-11-24T19:18:00.000-08:00

I really liked Anner's blog and I wanted to add something about one invasive species that is encroaching the Tucson area. This invasive species is called Buffelgrass and it was brought in to bolster the range production for sheep. The main problem is that it cures out relatively fast and becomes a fire hazard. In the mid 90's, a lot of the west was going through a drought there were several fires in the Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding communities. These fast moving fires typically damage the stems of the cacti and ultimately kill them. This bunch grass grows and reseeds so fast that local volunteer groups cannot keep up with it's advance. If you would like to know more about this invasive grass, click on the link. I wanted to add another image of a Saquaro that I saw at the Saquaro National Park. Tess

http://www.buffelgrass.org/index.php

Saguaro Cactus and the Mysterious Sonoran Desert

2009-11-24T16:02:00.000-08:00

The Native Americans of the Sonoran Desert are very in tune with the nature in this region. They look at the land as your relative and if you throw trash on the land you are throwing trash on your relatives. When we die we go back into the earth so let's take care of it as best we can.

The saguaro cactus and the Sonoran Desert are very sacred and mysterious to the Tohono O'odham Indian people. These cacti are thought to be people and if you look long enough especially at dusk or dawn...they truly look like people. My kids said that at night these cactus walk around and when morning comes they go back to their spot. I can just picture it...can't you?

The fruit of the saguaro cactus are very important as well. When the natives harvest the fruit of the saguaro it is so important it is considered their New Year. They use the fruit to make jam, syrup and even wine. The Sonoran desert may seem like a prickly and desolate waste land but in fact it is filled with life. So many animals, insects, rodents and reptiles live in the desert and let's not to forget the hundreds of varieties of plants. I would love to see the desert in bloom someday...I think it would be spectacular!

The size of cactus shown in the picture is approximately 100-150 years old...isn't it incredible? He also looks like he is alongside the road hitch hiking his way to California or some other exotic destination.

I just love being amongst these quirky cacti...Make sure to stop at Saguaro National Park if you are ever in the Tucson area. I don't think you will be disappointed unless you were here in the middle of the summer and hit a day of 114 degree temperatures.

Until next time...Anne

Tohono Chul Park Tucson Arizona

2009-11-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

My family has been in Tucson Arizona a few days visiting family and it has been great to feel the heat of the the sun. My mother in law and I visited a really neat place today called Tohono Chul Park in Tucson. Tohono is a Native American tribe name of the region...Tohono O'odham Nations. It is only about five minutes from my brother in laws house which is really great because it was recently named one of the top ten botanical gardens in the world. I had never visited this park before and thought it was just awesome. It is located in the city which makes it even more special because it is a mini oasis amongst tons of homes, businesses and convenient stores. Living in the mountains we never get to see all of the cool desert plants such as agave, cholla cactus, saguaro cactus, ocotillo, palo verde trees and so much more!

The history of this place is quite interesting. We talked to a volunteer at the park and she told us that a family named Wilson owned 39 acres of land here for many years. They were offered a truckload of money to sell to a development company that wanted to build a strip mall. They turned down the offer and decided to turn the property into a non profit park. Teaching people how to preserve the fragile Sonoran Desert was much more important than the lure of money. This was an incredible decision because it has turned into a wonderful park that people from all walks of life can visit and learn from. Plus at the same time this family has a legacy they can leave for their children and generations to come. Such a gift to give....

I would say it is worth a stop if you are ever in Tucson. They have a tea room where they serve "high tea" and they also have an excellent lunch menu using local organic produce. There is a wonderful children's garden area, performance garden, art exhibit area, gift shop and much more. They also have "Holiday Nights" coming up here for a couple of weekends at the end of November and first of December showcasing music, lights, hot cider and holiday fun!

It was a lot of fun to check out a new spot in Tucson. I have been here many times before and I have to admit it is growing on me. I know I wouldn't survive in the summer but in the spring, fall and winter it is just lovely.

Here is a photo of the typical desert scene in Tucson....saguaro cactus, prickly pear and many more poky plants! By the way...we had a prickly pear lemonaid at lunch and it was super refreshing and interesting to try. Next time I will try the Prickly Pear Margarita! Are you up for it girls?

Until next time....Anne

Vannas of Vintage

2009-11-21T17:41:00.001-08:00

The women in our family and many of my friends have a shared interest in vintage. We love to re-use, re-purpose and find great bargains. I found this fantastic green glass serving dish for $1.00 at a very secret junk store. I used it today to tote cranberry - walnut bars to a gathering with girlfriends. This is so 1950's !! I can just see the original owner - a woman wearing heels and a little apron serving her cocktail party guests.

We "Vannas of Vintage" are continually spinning the Wheel of Fortune to find another perfect treasure.

One of my friends shared her practice of buying inexpensive bowls or plates and delivering food to a pot-luck or party - and telling the host to 'keep the dish' ! She has done this with small covered casseroles found for little or nothing. Bringing warm apple crisp and leaving the casserole dish it was prepared in is a great way for your host family to remember your special time together, and the special friend who left her treasure!

Just look at that handle!

Vintage is interesting, unique, generally high quality. It has history, and can be a conversation piece. I love the retro look of glassware and cookware. Old linens are very fun as well. Clothing generally runs smaller than today's sizes, but the place I often look for vintage (etsy.com) is very good about giving detailed measurements. Several high quality photos are generally provided, and a disclosure about things that the seller wishes shoppers to know before purchase. I have never been disappointed.

This morning I purchased a pair of grey suede Salvatore Ferragamo flats (1970's) for $20 on etsy.com. I know that they will be smashing, and I didn't need to go near a mall - which is perfect. And I'm supporting an 'at-home' business - which make me feel good.

The Blue Cottage in Mora, MN is a great place to find re-purposed household goods and some clothes. It is a wonderful place to shop for gifts, as well. It is lots of fun to find a little item that is perfect for that special friend. Last weekend I grabbed a comfortable, crisp white shirt for myself for $4.00. If you need to down-size at home, places such as the Blue Cottage are a great place to consign. Plus - it's just downright fun.

The "Vannas of Vintage" are in full swing this holiday season - being thrifty, earth-friendly and supporting small businesses. Most importantly - having a great time! Kathy

pecan/pumpkin pie

2009-11-20T13:07:00.000-08:00

Does anyone have a good pecan pie recipe? We have been invited to Carolyn's for Thanksgiving and she wanted us to make a pecan and pumpkin pie. I have tried baking these before. Help!! I rarely bake desserts. Tess

New designs

2009-11-19T23:29:00.000-08:00

Why is it that everything comes back into style? I have been trying to design some new hats and sweaters but what I dream up is something that was once popular. But wait, it should come back into style soon. I talked to Anner about some boot toppers, which are knitted boot socks that fold over your " Frye' boots. What else right! Well, it seems as though some people are saying to me that they are " Way 80's and out of style" I say to them that they are just coming back into style. The styles in the early 80's were weird but they are all coming back into style now. This makes it easy to knit up new trendy stuff for gifts, especially for young people. The other styles that I am attracted to are styles from the 20's and 30's. The idea is to knit items for women with curves. All I see in magazines now are models that haven't eaten in 2 years or so and they just look angry. I would be upset to if I had to eat a carrot and a glass of water every day. I think that healthy women are much more attractive, especially if they have a few curves. I am looking for some new ideas for knitting items for women that have curves. I think that I would like to focus on ski clothing. Tess

...Speaking of Playing with Dolls!

2009-11-18T18:54:00.000-08:00

What I want to know .....is "Skippy" the Scarecrow ready for Thanksgiving?? He must be, as he was recently spotted sliding down the banister in Mora. Grandma just can't control this guy, and Grandpa is the instigator.

Stay tuned for a full report. There were plenty of antics last year!

"Heirloom Design"

2009-11-18T17:27:00.000-08:00

An article was recommended to me by GGG. It was written by a fellow kayaker Sharon Bloyd-Peshkin, and references a phrase "heirloom design" - coined by 2007 MacArthur Fellow Saul Griffith. He states that making products durable, repairable and upgradable lowers the quantity of energy required in making and distributing products.

The author of the article makes great points about consumerism, quality, trends, the global economy, history, keeping jobs local, the environment, food, and much more.

I remember growing up there was a shop in town where you could get your tv and radio fixed. Fixed! How novel. Also, Mr. Mauer would come to the house if he was needed to repair the washer. My mom and I frequently joke about coffee-makers - which brand to buy, which will last? How do you find that balance point where the cash you dish out for the new appliance will get you an adequate amount of satisfaction - as measured by time. As a society, we are forced into situations similar to buying the $20 coffee maker and fully expecting to trash it in 6-8 months. And we usually do.

I say enough!! I know lots of people including most in our family, plus several friends - who gets tons of satisfaction at the junk and thrift stores, repurposing things, making something out of nothing. Making "hand made"!

I'll be looking at Louie's (junk place) for a percolator coffee pot when our drip model gives out. I don't need my coffee maker to start itself, tell me the time, anticipate the kind of grounds I use, give me a weather forecast, or channel MPR.

I just need coffee.

Read the article - it's well worth your time.

By the way, I read an inspiring article about a local businesswoman who has started a Twin Cities affiliate of Dress for Success - nonprofit organization dedicated to helping disadvantaged women "in work and life". A great place to donate work clothes no longer needed.

Ole and Lena Ski Colorado

2009-11-18T07:43:00.000-08:00

Quite a few years ago my Dad gave me these hand carved gnome skiers which are named Ole and Lena. As you can see from the photo Lena is 'lena down the hill' if you get what I mean? He actually carved these fun characters and I still don't understand how the whole process of wood carving works. I do not have the visualization to see the final carved piece in a block of wood. Wood carving is among one of my Dad's many, many talents. Yes Dad, you are "uber talented"! And yes, I just used the word "uber" in a sentence.

Back to Ole and Lena. Normally these gnomes would be cross country skiing which is kind of like running on skis. You use your skis and poles to move your body across the snow which takes some serious strength and endurance! In Scandinavian countries cross country skiing was used as a way to get from point A to point B. It was also used during hunting as it was an easy way to get around in these snow covered areas. Cross country skiing has evolved into a recreational sport and gets your body into excellent shape. Trust me...it really does.

But Ole and Lena were getting tired of working so hard while skiing. They decided to take a trip to Colorado for some downhill skiing. Now of course they were interested in the big time ski areas like Aspen, Telluride and Vail but their budget was tight (they are after all wood carvings). They drove all the way to Colorado from Minnesota to check out some smaller more intimate ski areas. They were pleasantly surprised when they found areas such as Loveland Ski Area, Wolf Creek Ski Area and Monarch Mountain Ski Area. These are just a few of the smaller more "wallet friendly" ski areas in Colorado.

As you can see Ole and Lena had a gorgeous day of skiing in the mountains. Ole was trying to impress Lena by dropping off some cliffs into the fresh powder but not to be outdone Lena was right on his tails. That is some "sick air" you guys! I hope you stuck the landing. Eventually the couple had to get back to reality (you know...jobs and kids back home) but their time in Colorado was so incredible they are planning a return trip for next season. Until then...keep on skiing. If a carved gnome can do it...so can you!

Ski ya later....Anne
(see what happens when you spend too much time alone...you start playing with and talking to dolls that don't talk back) Scary! See "Crazy" Gnarls Barkley....

The happy couple...

Beautiful and Functional

2009-11-16T18:43:00.001-08:00

This is intended to showcase my sister Margie's great leather goods. I agree with her, there is something very special about fine leather. And when it is crafted with exceptional care into items that bring beauty to everyday tasks and events, it is even more special. This photo was taken by GGG up at the hunting camp. Pictured are the new camp 'log', and the larger one is a photo album that is used to hold pictures from a game camera. Another great accessory is the planner that can be filled with any brand of planner pages. GGG is never far from his.

These items are perfect for the outdoor and hunting aficionado. They fit in perfectly 'up at camp', and will travel easily to work. At that big meeting, others will look with envy on the fine leather planner with the antler closure. (This has really happened!). Kathy

Another thought!!

2009-11-15T12:55:00.000-08:00

How about a cool shot of all the Sister's for Mom and Dad but with a theme of some sort. I was thinking if we could have someone (Dave) to take a photo of all of us girls in our togs from our ancestry. Really!!!!! Irish and Vikings. I get to wear the helmet. Ha. Ha. Just a thought.

I think you would be impressed that I have nearly all my Christmas shopping done and on the table in the living room. Jason is scratching his head????????????????? Tess

Sister's

2009-11-15T12:46:00.000-08:00

I have an idea. Thanks Anner (Lorenna McKennitt) for putting the thought in my head.

How about a video of the Sister's for Mom and Dad. Like a video of all the girls and their passions and dreams and expectations. We could start it at Anner's house and then she could e-mail it and then the next sister could add something really cool. I think that would be a real cool timeless piece for Mom and Dad along with their B&B somewhere. This could be your special 10 minutes of time to express your thoughts and dreams to Mom and Dad. I know I am more comfortable doing this.

Or, you could tape your own and then mail to Anner or Kathy so they could photo shop it and edit changes of any kind. I think it would be cool. Some IT specialist (Jimmy) may be able to tell us how to do it.

Let me know if this is to weird. tess

Be "Sparkling" at the Holidays

2009-11-15T07:15:00.001-08:00

Lately I have been intrigued with using oxidized metals - especially bronze. Oxidized sterling is great too, but I don't have a source. I think that the professional jewelry makers oxidize their own silver. If anyone knows about this process, please let me know.

The picture shows three earring options for incorporating a Swarovski (c) crystal with bronze. I think the reason that I like bronze is that 1) it is less expensive than sterling, and 2) it goes great with darker or olive skin tones (like my sisters and I!) It seems more natural looking to me.

Simple, elegant and sparkly.

What was that line in 'Rainman' where Dustin Hoffman told the woman of his desire (his brother's girlfriend) - that she looked "very sparkly"? Love that movie.

Here is a way for you to shine at the holidays for just pennies. The Swarovski crystal is the finest in the world and comes in a huge variety of colors and shapes. I have used round faceted beads in two of these examples, and a helix shaped on the kidney wire. My favorite source is Artbeads.com. They have a free shipping option! If you order your color in AB (aurora borealis), it will have extra sparkle and really toss the light around. The three samples are in clear AB.

This photo is a pair of earrings that my friend Lila
(Dog Day Studio) made in a very unique Swarovski bead shape, cosmic, using sterling. This is a larger bead - nearly an inch from top to bottom. Perfect for a special performance at Orchestra Hall, or a night on the town.

The sparkle on your ears will match the sparkle in your eyes with these! Kathy

Canyon de Chelly

2009-11-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken by E.S. Curtis in 1904. This was De Chelly canyon before any of the Tamarisk, Russian olive, and Cottonwoods were in the canyon. The residents of the canyon typically had two homes, one in the canyon and one of the mesa top. There are really old trails that go to the top of the mesa. Some of the trails still have the original hand and toe holds from the Anasazi (Ancient Puebloans) people. The Hopi and Navajo came in after the Ancient Puebloans and inhabited some of their dwellings. I am not an Archeologist but I have heard from my co-workers that most of the Navajos will not enter cliff dwellings or burial sites. It's kind of weird working with our crew and Archeoligists. In most cases, myself and crew will discover artifacts that have been covered for years. Most in the form of rock art, ancient hand and toe holds, and surface sites. My co-worker Anderson just discovered an ancient rock art panel just after we had cleared the trees away from the walls. The panel had horses, antelope, and other figures that were in perfect condition. An etching on a wall for nearly 1000 years still blows me away. The Archeologists had not ever seen it, which didn't surprise me. Most of the sites on the Colorado Plateau are covered with vegetation now. They believe that the Indians used a lot of wood for building and heating, making the mesa tops very spare. Tess

Just another day on the job!

2009-11-13T12:03:00.000-08:00

When I am not knitting and gardening, I have another job where they pay me. Ha! We spent the entire week burning the slash piles that we created all summer long. The weather was beautiful. It was probably high 60's low 70's all week long and the guys and myself burned nearly 56 acres worth of piles. We even worked on Veterans Day. The slash that we are burning is made up of Tamarisk (salt cedar) and Russian olive species. These species were planted in the canyon in the 30's to prevent erosion. Little did they know back then, that the canyon would be filled with these species. The main problem is that they suck up an incredible amount of water. The channel incision is so deep because of the canyon being chocked out by these species. The Park officials decided that they wanted to "restore" the canyon back so that the native grasses, forbes, and tree species could thrive providing habitat for wildlife and open range.

The Park is still considered tribal land but the Park Service takes care of tourism and protection in the canyon. The locals call the canyon the "The living community".
I am glad that I am able to help them restore their lands back to it's original state.

Tess

Gettin Gifty in the 'Hood

2009-11-12T17:06:00.001-08:00

The owner of my hair salon "Foiled Again" in NE (Nordeast) Minneapolis, invited myself and 6 other 'artists' (I'll use that term loosely for myself) to show our stuff at an event tomorrow night. The event is "Gettin' Gifty in the 'Hood". I haven't participated in anything like this since I left Bismarck 2 1/2 years ago. But I'm sure it will be fun.

NE Minneapolis is a ethnic melting pot, made up of descendents of Polish, German, Slovak, Finnish, Russian and Ukranian immigrants that came for the employment opportunities offered by the grain mills and sawmills along the Mississippi River. The demographic now is younger and even more diverse with a relatively recent influx of African American and Somalis.

This is not your suburban strip mall environment, or pre-fab 'town' with the fake Main Street (think Maple Grove). It is quite trendy with fabulous 'one of a kind' restaurants, galleries and shops. The city's only authentic Irish fish n' chips place, The Anchor, recently opened in the neighborhood, and joins the classics such as Nyes Polonaise Room, Jax, and many others that have been around for decades. I'm sure that our parents went to these places on their 'hot date' nights back in the late 40's early 50's.

A favorite haunt of ours is "Grumpy's" bar - famous for hotdish night (a buck a bowl) every Tuesday, and vinyl night (bring vinyl albums to spin, and your first drink is free) on Thursdays. Annie makes the city's best cosmopolitan - and I am certain to be there when she is tending bar. It's really fun to watch Dave (Gitche Gumee Guy) belly up to the bar in this blue collar neighborhood and then totter back to our table balancing a pretty pink martini. Priceless.

Well, Nordeast has a Catholic church of one ethnicity or another, and at least one bar on nearly every block. Interesting dynamic. So, maybe there will be some hip urban folks who need a rosary bracelet for 'grandma' tomorrow night.

Dyeing Wool with Black Walnuts

2009-11-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

My sister sent me some black walnuts that she had picked up down in Arizona with the thought that I could use them to dye some wool. It took me a while to get around to it but I finally did it. I soaked the black walnuts in a large stock pot for a couple of days. I was going to soak overnight but it turned into a couple of nights. I strained out the walnuts and other gunk and was left with a dark brown dye bath. I then heated up the dye bath to a simmer and placed the wool yarn in the pot. I then turned the heat way down so it the wool would not turn into felt in the pot. After a bit, I turned the heat off completely and let it soak all afternoon. I noticed that the color wasn't soaking into the yarn that well so I added some alum into the bath. Alum is used as a mordant which helps set the dyes into the wool. There are many other mordants such as tannic acid, sodium chloride, salts of aluminum, chromium, copper and iron. These aren't that readily available so I used what I could pick up at the local grocery store which was alum. I believe that the color ended up a bit lighter because I may have needed more walnuts. I will get some more from my sister hopefully and try it again. Black Walnuts are supposed to be the best for natural dyeing. It was fun to try it and I will do some more natural dyeing as soon as I get my hands on other plants. Plus I need some lessons from our expert Misslynn. Now I just need to figure out what I want to knit up with my new color.

I found this great website...check it out! Pioneer Thinking.

Anne

"The Legend Lives On......

2009-11-12T03:49:00.001-08:00

from the Chippewa on down, of the Big Lake they call Gitche Gumee."

Tuesday afternoon brought the 5th anniversary of the 'Gales of November' paddle by a group of kayaking friends in the Twin Cities. Rather than the stormy Lake Superior seas, we were on lovely Lake Minnetonka commemorating November 10, 1975 - the day the 'Fitz' went down with all hands near Whitefish Bay on Lake Superior.

Althought the spirit of the day this week was light (thanks to great weather and friends), the commemoration was relevant, since Veteran's Day followed. Additionally, those of us who frequent Lake Superior on skinny 16-17 foot boats are still trying to understand recent kayer deaths on the Big Lake. Maybe we are not meant to understand, but to remain ever vigilant about this lake that can dish out joy and terror within minutes of each other.

"....and all that remains is the faces and names of the wives, and the sons and the daughters...."
Gordon Lightfoot

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0DqPSF2fyo

Navajo Code Talkers

2009-11-11T18:57:00.000-08:00

I was listening to the radio today and heard a report about the Navajo Code Talkers. This topic hits close to home because my sister works at Canyon De Chelly National Park in Chinle Arizona and works with many Navajos. I am so impressed with how talented and artistic the Navajo people are. They were interviewing a man named Keith Little, a Navajo and retired Marine, about his involvement with the secret code that the Japanese could not crack during World War II. He said that the code was already made up when he became involved in the military...he just had to memorize it. He explained how different words such as hand grenade meant potato in the Navajo language and field artillery meant many big guns. The words they used were simple but effective. There was no way the Japanese would know the Navajo vocabulary and it was unbreakable. Little spoke of how proud the Navajo code talkers were to serve in the military and how they strove for speed and accuracy. The talkers were not honored until 2001, 60 years after the code had been made up. The remaining men want to keep the memory of the code talkers alive and hope to create a museum. I really hope this happens, maybe it already has. I will have to talk to my sister because she is sure to know much more about the topic. From a previous post, her co worker, William Yazzie traveled to Iwo Jima with one of the Navajo code talkers. Let's see if we can get her to elaborate a bit on this topic. I am sure she has lots of fun stories! I was just intrigued by the story and wanted to share so we can help the Navajo code talkers keep their legacy alive.

Make sure to check out our Navajo friends gorgeous jewelry at Misslynn.
until next time...Anne

photo is the monument to the Navajo Code Talkers in Window Rock Arizona...

Bald Eagles

2009-11-08T19:21:00.000-08:00

Do you think you know about Bald Eagles? I have seen eagles my whole life and what I know for sure is that they are the most majestic raptor. Their numbers started dwindling in the 1800's because of habitat loss. Of course, you all remember the loss of eagle population due to the use of DDT pesticides. These pesticides harmed the eggs of eagles. On June 28th, 2007, the Interior Department took the aagles off of the Endangered Species list. Unfortunately, the feathers of eagles are still being used for Native American purposes. I know that my co-worker Anderson is always looking for eagle feathers. He now looks into places that have eagles that were injured or are being held in captivity. It is really amazing how many eagle feathers you will see at Pow wows or the "Gathering of the Nations" or other ceremonies. I truly love this raptor. I still am amazed when I see an eagle if flight. Eagles seem to stay around this area in the winter, feeding on fish and small rodents. You will see them roosting in old decadent cottonwoods along the Dolores, Animas, San Juan, and La Plata rivers.

Does anyone know any more trivia about this magnificent raptor? Please feel free to add to this. Tess

"In Flanders Field" by John McCrae

2009-11-08T18:17:00.000-08:00

November 11th, 2009

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

— Lt.-Col. John McCrae (1872 - 1918)

I learned about this poem in my Contemporary World History class. I don't claim to know a lot about poetry but I found this poem very moving. I had heard the poem before but had never learned much more about it. In discussing the poem I learned so much more about World War I and how it affected the author personally. This poem was written by a man that had witnessed his friend die during this war. It made the history of this war more real to me. World War I was way before my time so I never learned that much about it. There seemed to be so much more written about World War II so I read more about that war. This poem is just one of thousands written during the war. Writing was one way to cope while being involved in such a horrific situation. While doing some reading on the topic I found out that soldiers published trench magazines for their division or unit. Stories, poems, lyrics... the written word... can be very powerful during times of distress. After the war there were many, many memoirs written as well. What struck me about the poems reference to the poppies was that there was something beautiful growing where there had been so much death and destruction. Read through the poem a few times and think of those who were there....it was very interesting to study the poem line by line and find out what the author might have been thinking at the time he wrote it....

Let's remember our service men, women and veterans....

Anne

images from an online source...

Leather Messenger Bags and Clutches

2009-11-08T18:13:00.000-08:00

After years of making leather journals I decided to start making leather messenger bags as well. A few years

ago I took a piece of leather that was far too shiny for my taste and cut the pattern pieces, and using the backside or sueded finish on the outside, created my very first messenger bag. The bag measured 9" W by 13" H. The flap is cut on the jagged edge of the hide if I can and I use an antler button for the closure. The shoulder strap is about 48" in length and long enough to sling across the body.

Once people started to see the rather rough-looking bag the orders started coming in. In fact my sister Kathy was my first customer. I did make one more bag ahead of hers to "iron" out the details.

With this pattern I can create a bag that is longer than wider, or wider that longer using the same pattern. Those familiar with the bags hear me refer to them as vertical or horizontal.

I like to cut the flaps for the bags on the jagged edge of the hide if I can and use antler buttons for the closures. I have upon request used vintage buttons for the closures.

I wish that I would have kept track of how many of these bags I have made. The orders keep coming in and I have made several that are larger than th 9" x 13" and at times, smaller.

Photographed here is my own black messenger bag (horizontal) with an exterior pocket ,and of course antler buttons.

Another style that has been popular is the clutch. The clutch in the photograph I made for myself the night before my brothers wedding. It matched my outfit perfectly. Here I used a vintage button for the closure.

I hope to return to the drawing table this winter a create some new styles for 2010. After all we have to constantly keep reinventing ourselves.

Native American Flute played by William Yazzie

2009-11-08T12:13:00.000-08:00

My dear friend and co-worker William asked me to come to his presentation in Chinle. He plays twice a week, typically drumming and playing his flute. He is Navajo but is familiar with playing a wide array of music from the Colorado Plateau. He is one of these guys that is good at everything. He has traveled all over the world with his playing. Most recently he traveled to Iwo Jimo with one of the code talkers that stills lives in Chinle.
If you ever come to Canyon de Chelly, you have to see William play. I am sure that you have heard about the Navajo sense of humor? Well, William is a comedian. He had this elder hostel group laughing so hard, they were almost crying. William is married to gal from Pojoaque, New Mexico. Their children are half mexican half Navajo. Tess

Native American Style Flutes

2009-11-07T17:27:00.000-08:00

I don't recall how this interest....... or rather obsession with the Native American Style flute began I only remember that it started last winter.

I was shopping around on Ebay and found an affordable bamboo flute which I bid on and won. Unfortunatley the sound was not the best.

With my next search I found a flute, an F# made of aromatic red cedar. This flute had an eagle block and a feather burned into the wood. Eagles and feathers being very important to me, I bid on this flute and won it! I often feel that this is my favorite flute although as time has passed and I have added to my collection, now I have to say that my favorite flute is the one that I am playing at the moment. However, this red cedar flute plays like a dream. It has a very clear and crisp sound. Created by Desre' Dory of Cloud Walker Flutes. Beautifully crafted, his work is truly an art.

My next flute was yet another created by Cloudwalker Flutes, a closed-end flute made of Red Gum Wood with Ebony accents. This flute is tuned to the Key of G and has a closed end of an eagle head with beautifully carved detail and glass eyes. This flute is the longest flute that I have and is simply stunning to look at with all the beautiful detail. The sound is rich and haunting.

By this time I have developed an obsession with flutes and contacted Desre' Dory about my next venture. On his recommendation we decide on a drone, tuned to the key of G. The creation of this flute was delayed a bit but so worth the wait. A drone flute has two chambers. I actually had no idea how to play this flute but quickly caught on. If you play the flute using only one side of the mouthpiece, you get the sound of a single flute. Once you blow into the entire mouthpiece, what you hear is not only the individual notes being played, but a steady sound ,or drone from the other chamber. Sounds as though two flutes are playing very rich and beautiful! As you can see from the pictures, this flute is wider than a typical flute and once again Desre' Dory burned a feather into the wood for me as well as little dots around each finger hole. Truly a work of art. His work is beautiful and I have such confidence in his knowledge and craftsmanship.

Just a couple of weeks ago I bought a High Spirits flute ,a Merlin Key of C. This little flute measures only 18" in length and is made from Maple/Mahogany wood. It is a great little flute for hiking and backpacking. This little flute produces and light and very cheerful sound.

Desre' Dory and I talked about my next venture. He suggested a bass flute. I am not sure what key the flute will be tuned to. I usually go on his recommendation.

So far my flute playing takes place at home for my own enjoyment, or my captive audience.....Bob. He's getting hooked on this music as well.

Each summer we travel to our favorite lake in the Superior National Forest of Minnesota to camp, fish and simply enjoy nature. Over the past few years we have either set up a tent, a lean-to or the tepee to live in for a week. I guess my dream is to set up the lodge and play my flutes on the beautiful rugged shores of our favorite lake and hope that our eagle friends pay us a visit visit as they do each year.

I don't know that I can choose a particular flute to take with on those trips. Perhaps I will take all of them.

I have purchased a couple of wonderful Pendleton wool flute bags to safely store my flutes at home or on the road. You can see one of them in the photos.

The Native American style flute is very easy to play and anyone can learn. The flutes are 5-hole and 6-hole and based on the pentatonic scale ("penta" meaning five).

There is so much more for me to know and learn about the flutes but in the meantime there is no right or wrong way to create this music so I just keep on playing and making up songs!

Using Wonderful Materials

2009-11-07T07:21:00.001-08:00

I am continually amazed at how certain strands of beads 'speak to me'. I found a strand of rough cut abalone at a local shop, and knew that I had to have it. My thought was to send the strand to friend Lila in Bismarck - see Dog Day Studio - for her to make a custom design for me. I have purchased her wonderful designs for many years. But alas...she is not doing that much custom work these days.

So the strand sat around, and I kept looking at it and holding it. The abalone is rough on one side - the outside of the shell. The other side has the wonderful and iridescent shades of cream, taupe - and soft green. I also had a strand of new jade serpentine around that I purchased to make a rosary bracelet. This gemstone is a beautiful pale green, and the beads are in a pebble shape.

They go perfectly together, and when combined with large filligree bronze beads and strung on a bronze chain - make a great piece! This is a super long necklace that can be worn as is - or wrapped 2-3 times. It is lightweight and fun! I am in the process of finishing matching earrings and a bracelet.

Beautiful materials inspire us to create! I have learned over the years that if a strand of beads or focal point piece 'talks' to you - it is a great idea to take it home with you. You are meant to be together! Kathy

Art in Toilet Paper

2009-11-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

We are coming to the end of a bathroom remodel - several months of planning and work, and several thousand dollars. We are asking ourselves - how can you spend this much on a 4' x 4' bathroom??
Well, it's lovely and worth it.

My friend Jackie specializes in kitchen and bath design, and oversaw the project for us. When I was getting ready to purchase the light fixture and shelf from Pottery Barn - we looked at the other pieces in the collection....TP holder, shelves and towel racks of every size, and hooks. I was getting ready to hit the 'send' button on the order and Jackie said "WAIT". Why are we doing this? You are not a match-y / match-y sort of person - why don't you look on etsy for your tissue holder and towel ring? "Why not, indeed?", I said.

Not that I don't love Pottery Barn, but now I know about Boone's Hooks!

I found this wonderful hand-forged TP holder and a matching towl ring made by M. Smyth Boone of Paonia, CO. Smyth, as it turns out, is an 18th generation master artist/blacksmith - and a direct descendant of the famous pioneer Daniel Boone! Not only is he a fabulous artist, but very friendly and customer oriented. He accidentally sent a towel bar instead of the ring, and offered a complimentary hook for my trouble (no trouble!) in returning the wrong piece.

I did mapquest Paonia and discovered that Boone's Hooks is located mid-way between sisters Anne and Tess in Colorado. Now, how would we find talented and dedicated artists such as Smyth - if not for etsy?

So, the bathroom is filled with wonderful art including a cherry vanity and mirror handcrafted by my brother Mark, a pottery bowl by Morris Pottery an artists proof of a whip poor will by Michigan artist Ladislav Hanka. This is the same artist whose work (fish) is featured on the Bell's Two-Hearted beer bottles! And of course - the wonderful toilet paper holder and towel ring by Smyth Boone!

This is currently the best room in the house - and I'm wondering how we will fit everyone in at the holidays? Kathy

Spinning on the Navajo Spindle

2009-11-06T20:19:00.000-08:00

Misslynn started spinning the roving that I got last week. That was the Baltic Top(merino). She will spin the first round and then pass it off to her Mom so she can spin it down and ply it. Her Mom is an expert weaving so she is very experienced with spinning wool. I think that they will spin it to a worsted weight so that i can finish this hat for Michelle.
More to come......................Stand by. Tess

beach glass necklace and earrings

2009-11-06T19:53:00.000-08:00

These are a couple cool gifts made from beach glass. The necklace was made by Kathy. The beach glass was collected from Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, on the shore of Lake Michigan. The earrings were made by Marilyn James. The beach glass came from Cholla beach, Sonora, Mexico (aka Rocky Point).

When I wear these out on the town, I always get compliments. Tess

Lake Superior Beach Glass

2009-11-06T16:03:00.000-08:00

Yes, this is the real deal. Beach glass found on the shores of Lake Superior. As an avid sea kayaker, I am privileged to be able to sidle up to places in the lake that regular boats (the kind that bring tourists!) cannot. Therefore, I often come upon a treasure of glass - usually on the rocky or cobble beaches. After the winter season or summer storms, there is generally a fresh 'crop' of glass in the places we frequent.

Beach glass, sometimes called "sea glass", is glass that has been tossed overboard, or dumped into the lake as garbage. This was done back in the day when the precious natural resource of Lake Superior (the largest freshwater lake in the world) was not so carefully taken care of. A more romantic image is that the piece might be fine glassware from the dining room of a magnificent ship that met its demise on the rocky shores - shipwrecks being a once common occurrence on the Big Lake.

The glass pieces are washed ashore, tumbled by the wave action, and ground to smooth shapes. The most common color is white (which was clear glass), then green, brown and various shades of blue ranging from cobalt to pale turquoise. In the past, I have wire-wrapped pieces for pendants and earrings. Now I am interested in making wine glass charms for my paddler girlfriends, a nice reminder of paddling days while enjoying our holiday wine. My sister Anne has agreed to drill some pieces for me.

My prize piece of beach glass is a large brown circular chunk about 2 1/2" across that has faint raised letters O R O and part of an X. I figured it was maybe an old Clorox bottle. I sent an email to the company and received in return a complete history of their bottling and packaging practices - by year. As it turns out, this piece of brown glass is from a 1930's vintage bottle of Clorox bleach. I wire wrapped it it sterling for a very distinctive pendant. It is certainly a conversation piece!

When I wander the shorelines of Gitchee Gummee and find these rare gems, I find myself wondering what they once were - and how long they have been tossed about by the magnificent forces of Lake Superior. Kathy

Connemara Marble Ireland's Gem

2009-11-06T15:20:00.000-08:00

Connemara marble, a 600 million year old piece of metamorphic limestone rock found only in Ireland! THAT ROCKS! as my husband with the dry sense of humor would say. Yuk, yuk, yuk... It gets old after a while believe me...we just have to keep telling everyone not to laugh at him but it just makes it worse. Anyway, back to the marble...I have a piece of it I picked up in Ireland (not exactly picked up...bought) and I love it. Problem is, I haven't done anything with it yet. It has a neat hole drilled at the top and is begging to be made into a pendant with sterling silver or something awesome like that. I suppose I should hint around to the jewelry designer in the family and see what happens...
This marble is said to bring serenity...NO...not senility! I know what you all were thinking, just admit it. "Connemara Marble brings on senility". HaHaHaaa. Serenity, which is by definition, the absence of mental stress or anxiety and would be wonderful for the whole world to have, don't ya think? I know, I am dreaming again, head in the clouds, senility is closing in...but it is a nice thought anyway. Ok, back to the marble once again. Awesome rock, found only in Ireland, rare, serenity, gorgeous, green and white...What more do we need to know? The only thing I need to know is if I can hit my sis up to make it into something fabulously cool! Until next time....Anne

My Friend Marilyn (Misslynn)

2009-11-06T09:42:00.000-08:00

My friend is kind of bashful and she is going back to school so you have not been able to see any of her treasurers on her so I decided to introduce her myself. Thanks to etsy, I got her bio. She won't see it unless I bug her next week. She works at Canyon de Chelly as a community liaison, interpreter, and works closely with the canyon farms. She distributes seeds and fruit trees and helps the local re-establish their farms in the canyon. This is taken right in front of Fortress Rock, an famous landmark during the Spanish invasion and the Long Walk period. tj

My name is Marilyn James, Diné. I am of the Big Water clan and born for Coyote Pass clan. The maternal and paternal clans are Towering House and Bitter Water. I am from Smoke Signals, Arizona. My mother and father are Mary C. James and the late Philip James. My grandparents are the late Ruth Nelson Chee and John Kayonnie Chee. My mother is a homemaker and a Navajo Textile Weaver. Her expertise is in Pictorial weaving. My father has always been away at work; working on the Railroad or working in fields in other states. My grandmother was a Navajo Textile Weaver, too. She wove Yeis, a pattern of ceremonial dancers. My grandfather was a Medicine Man. His practice was doing Crystal Gazing and one (1) night singing (a Diné Ceremonial practice). I come from a large family; six (6) sisters and four (4) brothers. (This is how I introduce myself in Diné).

As a child before age six (6) years old, I grew up around an area called Owl Hat. I played within these hills and plateaus and at every watering hole there was. The whole world around me was a playground. What I learned then to prepare me for life, is so different from what I know today. Most of what my mother and grandparents basic life necessities were living off the land and taking care of the livestock. Being at home, it wasn't all play; I helped herd sheep in the pastures, taking the sheep to the watering hole and working around the house which included sweeping, doing the dishes and keeping things in order, plus babysitting my younger brothers and sisters. The whole family took part in taking turns doing each chore.

Sometime after age six (6), I went to boarding school; this was something that everybody did and it had to be done. I didn't go very far from home but it was still away from the comfort of home. The memory of the experience must have been traumatic because I don't remember the first day of school. That was probably the beginning of staying away and not getting back home.

In boarding school, activities of daily living were a routine and setup on a time base. It was during that time that I learned all of what I know about Arts and Crafts. There were clubs and small groups you can sign up for to learn how to knit, crotchet, and even weave a Navajo textile rug. I recalled a knitting group I entered, the instructor started off by telling us to cut a piece of yarn and put it in our mouth and chew on it so we can be expert knitters. I think it worked... Female, Born on September 16

The Desert Clutch with straps

2009-11-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally finished the Desert Clutch but I might have to change the name now because I put a strap on it. I was thinking about making some felted pouches with leather straps that go around your waist. Good for travelers and/or people that go to casinos with their oxygen bottles. Ha!!

Margie, If I experiment with one, can you make me a belt for me?
Anner, Got any ideas? Tess

Sesame Street is 40! Where has the time gone?

2009-11-05T06:18:00.000-08:00

Wow, this news is really making me feel old! Sesame Street is 40 years old! Ok, I am not sure what the relevance is but I felt compelled to write about it anyway. I was telling my kids that I grew up watching Sesame Street and my daughter asked if it was filmed in black and white. I thought it was funny because there were black and white television sets back in the day but I believe we had moved up in the world and had a color television (Mom you might have to refresh my memory). I also had to remind her that they were filming in color by this time. Geez, what is she thinking? I reminded her that we were not riding around in a horse and buggy at that time either. She looked at me a little perplexed and then caught on to the joke quickly enough. Boy, nothing get's past her. I also tried to explain to her that we didn't have the millions of kids shows like they have these days (another puzzled look). Ahhh, kids these days! Good times, good times.....

I will never forget all the fun puppet characters of Sesame Street...who could forget? Jim Henson was a genius! The silly skits and animation really proved to help children learn ABC's and counting. Gotta love the Count Dracula...and of course my favorite Kermit the Frog and let's not forget Bert and Ernie, the odd couple. Those were the days of life just a little bit simpler.

By the way, I still have my big bird stuffed animal which looks a little haggard at this point but he still brings back memories and NO I don't have it on my bed anymore. He is packed away in a safe place for one of my kids to have someday. Just to note...these photos aren't posters I still have on my walls...they are from an online source. Until next time...Anne

I Want a Bedspread Made of Cashmere!

2009-11-04T07:03:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...that would be a little expensive right? But a girl can dream...as she gazes off into the distance...hhhmmmm..... Cashmere goat fiber comes from the soft undercoat of these particular animals and is super lightweight, soft and warm with out the bulk. While doing some reading on the cashmere goat I found out that the fiber is also called pashmina which is a Persian word for wool (you think I would have already known that considering how much time I spend with regular wool). This pashmina wool was used to make shawls in Kashmir centuries ago, wouldn't we all love to own one of those? I think I will start saving up my money to buy some spun cashmere and knit one myself. Wait a minute, maybe I should buy a cashmere goat and spin up the wool myself, I do live in the mountains and these goats come from the mountains. (excitedly dances around the room!) Slow down, I am getting ahead of myself here. Maybe I should just buy the wool and knit it! Now all I need is money, time and a cool pattern. Any thoughts on where to buy some of this fabulous wool at a fabulous price? I know, I am rambling...not sure how to get on track here. My brain got all jumbled up thinking about cashmere this morning and see what happens...I make no sense. But seriously, if anyone knows a great source for this wonderful fiber I would love to hear from you! If you have any other comments drop me a note!
...slinks off to sulk in the corner until some cashmere appears out of nowhere......Anne

P.S. photo was taken from an online source... honest...I did not go out and buy a goat!

Kylemore Castle County Galway Ireland

2009-11-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Kylemore Castle located in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland is the photo in the previous post. My sister and I visited this gorgeous castle while in on a trip to Ireland in 2008. It was built for a wealthy Englishman in 1868 and used as a private home. In 1920 it was bought by Irish Dames of Ypres a Benedictine Order of Nuns that were originally from Belgium and fled there during World War I. The abbey is now home to girls boarding school called Kylemore Abbey International Girl's School although we found out while on our visit there it will be closing soon. We did not tour the inside because of a time crunch if I remember correctly. Trying to circle the island in two weeks meant we had to keep on the move. The castle is set up against a beautiful hillside with gardens, lakes and woodlands. This is also the region where Connemara marble is found which is a lovely green marble. It is used to make all kinds of items such as beads, pendants, candle holders, crosses and so much more! A gorgeous stone that is unique to the Connemara region. If you ever get to Ireland make sure to stop here. The photo is a beautiful lake where the castle/abbey is located. Enjoy... Anne

St.Benedictine

2009-11-01T16:57:00.000-08:00

Help me out Anner. This lovely spot we stopped at was run by the St.Benedict and/or Beneditine Nuns right. This is the most surreal place that I have ever been to in my life. We never went in but took photos from the lakeside. Just breathless. Tess

Hallowed or Haunted

2009-11-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

Kathy once told me the story of the Raven but I cetainly enjoyed reading it. It is a great story.
I had the privilege recently to help Kathy on a project at the Benedictine Health Services of Minneapolis. What I found was exactly as Kathy described. A facility that truly focuses on respect, acceptance and hospitality. I was impressed and inspired that evening by love and attention and most definitely the respect given to clients.
Respect, acceptance, and hospitality.........something to think about in our everyday lives.
And does wisdom perhaps appear on earth as a raven?...... I believe so. Margie

Pagosa Springs Fiber Festival

2009-11-01T12:06:00.000-08:00

Tess mentioned the Pagosa Springs Fiber festival that we attended last May. I thought I would go ahead and post a couple of photos of our fun filled weekend. It was kind of a small festival but that seemed to give it tons of character (right Tess?). Pagosa Springs is a gorgeous mountain town that is always fun to visit! It seems we drive through the area quite often and I am still amazed at just how beautiful the countryside is. After a good dinner at Kip's Grill and Cantina then a few microbrews later at Pagosa Springs Brewery we were in full on "chillin" mode. The next morning we got up and headed to the festival. Like Tess mentioned, we saw a lot of spinning, fiber, sheep, alpaca and even a Scottish Highland cow which are pretty interesting looking.
And look at that alpaca...don't you just want to just take that little cutie home? The gals and guys that spin and work with different kinds of fibers were amazing! We met a neat gal from Salida Colorado area that made handwoven items that were exquisite. I think if I have time to go to this festival again I would do it. A very relaxing environment and plenty of camping in the nearby National Forest makes it an easy and fun weekend. Plus, if we had time we could have hiked, mountain biked, dipped in the hot springs or rafted down the San Juan River! Maybe next time? Anne

Beaded Bangle (BB Bling)

2009-11-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

I created this on a whim this week when I was home unexpectedly with the flu. I had seen something similar in a store - looked at the price tag and thought 'I can make that'. A common refrain in our family. I call it BB Bling. Click the photo to enlarge for detail.

I had the large very light green beads around since last summer. I found them in a dollar bin at a favorite bead store in Marquette Michigan. The store owner didn't even know what they are - and I sure don't. They are a stone, probably not a 'gem' of any kind. They just looked like they had potential. So I combined them with bronze freshwater pearls, rhyolite (the green, one of my favorites), and bronze filigree hearts. Each bead is wire wrapped on a bronze chain. I believe that my materials cost is about $3.00!! As it turns out, this bracelet perfectly matches a wool paisley sweater that I own! And I wore them to work the next day. You can do this too - just drop a comment if you need help! Kathy

Baltic Top Roving

2009-11-01T07:15:00.000-08:00

Last summer Anner and I went to the Pagosa Wool Festival in Pagosa Springs, Co. We learned a bit more about spinning, primarily wool from sheep, alpaca, and Llamas. We got to see hand looms, spinning wheels, and some drop spindles. I bought a drop spindle and I tried it out. There is definitely an art to it.
Well, my friend Marilyn said that her Mom could help me spin my roving so I gave it to her and she spun a wonderful yarn out of it. I told her to keep it so she used it in one of her rugs.
This time I am going to have Marilyn spin it on her Mom's spindle (Navajo Spindle). Once she is done plying it, I will knit a hat for my co-worker who is originally from the Phillippines. Stay tuned for the end product. The pattern is "fair argyle cap" by Erda Kappeler. You might be able to see it but if not, I will post it when i get it done. If you cut and paste All New Homespun Handknit and go to page 4, that is the hat. I might add that Anner has tested different natural dyes on some of her yarns. This summer I would like to collect a bit more for her so she can do some more dying on the natural fibers. Tess

All New Homespun Handknit

Hallowed or Haunted?

2009-10-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

I have long been intrigued with the relationhip of the Raven to St. Benedict. To many, the raven is ominous and a sign of the mysterious and supernatural (Edgar Allan Poe's haunting and chilling poem "The Raven"), and some may even go as far as to consider the raven a sign of evil....."Nevermore" !

There is a reference to a story in the second book of the Dialogues of St. Gregory the Great (Dialogues II, viii.d3) As the story goes, St. Benedict was saved from eating a poisoned loaf of bread by a raven. The raven snatched the bread and hid it in the woods. Of course, it is much more complicated and dramatic than that - as chronicled, but I find it interesting that the symbol of the raven has persisted as a sign of wisdom and goodness, associated with St. Benedict and the Benedictine tradition. If you look closely at the St. Benedict medal you will see a raven sitting on his shoulder. The art of the St. John's Bible, a significant hand-written bible project commissioned by the monks at St. John's in Collegeville, MN features a raven in at least one of the illuminations - "Creation" from the book of Genesis.

My own exposure to the Benedictine tradition has been significant. I lived in central North Dakota for 30 years in close proximity to the Annunciation Monastery in Bismarck. The amazing Benedictine nuns from the Monastery sponsor the University of Mary where I received my master's, and St. Alexius Medical Center - where my sons were born. The strong Benedictine traditions in that small North Dakota city carried over to the parochial schools - which the kids attended (k - 12). They both decided to attend St. John's University in Collegeville, MN - sponsored by Benedictine monks. Now, in my second career in Minnesota - I am working for Benedictine Health Center of Minneapolis, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Scholastica in Duluth (Benedictines!). Did you know that St. Scholasitca and St. Benedict were siblings?

The Rule of St. Benedict, which provides guidance and direction for the monastics and all institutions they support, is a good read. The Rule has been used for fifteen centuries, and St. Benedict is sometimes regarded as the founder of Western monasticism.

"Let everyone that comes be received as Christ" is one of the most familiar phrases of the Rule, and is especially applicable in my current work. This emphasizes the importance of hospitality in the tradition. Hospitality for Benedict meant that everyone who comes — the poor, the traveler, the curious, those not of our religion or social standing or education — should be received with genuine acceptance. Other important elements of the rule are life in community, the balance of prayer and work, stewardship, and justice.

I believe that Benedictine values are as necessary today as they were in the sixth century. Benedict's Rule remains a powerful guide, and provides a way of viewing life that finds meaning in the ordinary.

So, for me the Raven is hallowed - associated with the holy and divine. My office is filled with raven art - prints, pottery and poetry. I used them as a continual reminder of the Rule - and all that it contains for us.

Alison Wallace is the artist who created the linocut entitled ‘St Benedict’s Raven’, which I found while doing an image and icon search for St. Benedict.

And let me ask this question -
"Does wisdom perhaps appear on earth as a Raven?"

Kathy

Total Rusticity

2009-10-31T05:39:00.000-07:00

I believe my interest in leather began back in the early 70's when I worked for a leather store on First and Hennepin in downtown Minneapolis. I made some little leather pouches, one of which I still have.
I loved the smell and feel of the leather and still do today.
A happy day for me is when my leather order arrives and I can lay the piece(s) out and plan my strategy for what I will make. I like hides with brand marks and often incorporated them into a particular piece.
I spent several years mostly making leather journals but along with those I am now also making checkbook covers, clutches, phone pouches, coin purses and of course the messenger bag which has grown in popularity.
My look is rustic.
And Tess, I do have one item in my line that has a name attached. That would be the Courtney Clutch. Inspired by a friend Courtney, of course that wanted a larger pouch than than the card/coin pouch. The Courtney has turned out to be a popular item! Thanks Courtney!

Holy Moly!!

2009-10-30T18:21:00.000-07:00

....I can't believe I'm blogging. My friends in the Twin Cites will think this is pretty funny!!

I've been making devotional jewelry such as rosary bracelets, Psalm 23 bracelets (you remember, "The Lord is my Shepard...."), and rosaries for about 5 years. I really like making beautiful pieces, some classic and traditional - and some that are unique and fun with a trendy look. I like it when people say 'wow, cool bracelet' - or, 'what is the meaning of that medal?', or 'can you customize with my birthstone?' The bracelet above just sold on my etsy shop! I'm tempted to make another one for me. It's fun and kicky - with an awesome four-way medal.

Anyway, devotional jewelry is a great way to "remember your prayers"! In my designs, I use high quality gemstones, genuine Swarovski (c) crystals and pearls, freshwater pearls, sterling silver - and my new favorite - bronze. Very warm looking for fall. Lake Superior and the great outdoors are the inspiration for my designs. Stay tuned! Kathy

The Exposure Hat

2009-10-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

This is the exposure hat the I made from Drops Designs. It's baby Alpaca and Baby Kid. It's a Scandanavian design so it took a bit to knit. I pulled it out once because I thought it was to big. After reading a message from this gal from Russia, I decided to just keep it the way it was. It is very warm though so if you would like one, just let me know. Tess

Vintage Sweater

2009-10-30T15:10:00.001-07:00

This is Avery's sweater but as you can see, I got it to big. The hat looks to small and the sweater is to big but I still don't have a button on it. The pattern called for one button on the top. I think I will just knit an eye cord and put it on the other side. Any suggestions?

Oh, I messed up the cable but I really didn't want to pull it out. Usually I will pull it out. A bad habit that I learned from Grandma Stafford. Tess

Tess Broke the Ice

2009-10-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

Cool! Our first couple of posts! Cute items Tess! The photos look great as well. I recently made this cute hat with ear flaps (see photo) that I was going to put in my etsy shop but my daughter Arete stole it right off the mannequins head. Oh well, it looks super cute on her and I made a couple more that are in my shop! I have been on a hat making spree and I will get a bunch more felted bowls and felted nesting bowls sets ready for my shop! Christmas is right around the corner. There are five of us sisters that will be posting on this blog. There will be a variety of topics which will make it fun and interesting! We have interests in vintage, repurposing old items into new fabulous pieces, knitting, scrapbooking, poetry, books, indie, fashion, nature, travel, jewelry making, leather, stones, aromatherapy and the list goes on. Add more if you want girls! This is the tip of the iceberg. Looking forward to the next posting from one of my lovely sisters!! hint hint.....

Desert Clutch

2009-10-30T14:56:00.001-07:00

The Desert Clutch

2009-10-30T14:02:00.000-07:00

OK! I have been bugging Margie and Anner for some time about mixing leather with felted objects. I tried a bag last year and my friend Marilyn did the stitching for me. So, i decided to give it another go and we created this bag that I am calling the Desert Clutch. It seems like the leather color is off with that color felt but it's a start. I also had a vision awhile ago about naming a bag "Johnstone" I know I know, it sounds kind of weird but can you just picture it now. Well made leather bags, just as nice as the popular ones. What is it PRADA???? Who the heck is Prada? Those plastic purses are really weird looking. I think it's all in the name, which is the whole point of this blog. OK, Margie. Anner has made a hat named Badeena so it's your turn. Go for it. Tess

Johnstone

Cabled Beret

2009-10-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

I remember that i used to wear a beret when I was a kid. I think my Grandma made it. I thought I looked pretty cool when I was a kid but for some reason, I don't think a beret fits me that well. I think I wear hats for warmth rather than style but here is one that i knit for my friend Della. She has strawberry blond hair, just recently cut short. I hope she likes it. Tess