tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26203741394632087022023-11-16T04:50:44.661-08:00Bertie's BlanketsSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-84614722532492934402015-06-21T16:27:00.002-07:002015-06-21T16:27:51.148-07:00London to ParisI wanted to share a couple of photos of how my brother is contributing to the hospice where Dad was cared for. He's been participating in cycling and running events most weekends, and a big part of that has been drumming up sponsorship for Trinity hospice. All his efforts are impressive, but perhaps the most significant so far is his bike ride from London to Paris. Here are some of the beautiful shots that he captured on his cell phone along the way...<br />
Baz, you rock! xxx<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18427368775" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="375" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8824/18427368775_164baf6b8c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18273913269" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="182" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8880/18273913269_0c63779405.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18272450700" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="142" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/507/18272450700_1e9dea4ab3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18455926622" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="196" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8865/18455926622_21f279047c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18497231541" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="375" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/386/18497231541_d7d8387e1a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/17874815283" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="128" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/515/17874815283_4bc48fea92.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18515238932" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="124" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8860/18515238932_db35a072aa.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18515194482" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="500" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8858/18515194482_884226faae.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18331971050" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="151" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8862/18331971050_65be870dd3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18525582202" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="500" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8858/18525582202_4f45176ec3.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/18503597436" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="500" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8835/18503597436_f668ab4003.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/102205313@N07/17909297613" title=" by Baz Bignell, on Flickr"><img alt=" " height="375" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/337/17909297613_1aa9774bd6.jpg" width="500" /></a>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-7718355841792708692015-06-07T18:09:00.002-07:002015-06-07T18:09:41.094-07:00Another Blanket to HospiceThank you to all who donated sock yarn squares - another blanket was donated to a local hospice this last month. Porter Hospice in Littleton, Colorado was the recipient. The sock yarn blankets are so light and colorful, and I cant tell you how thankful I am for your support providing these squares. Look at how lovely this one turned out:<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/17046868442" title="Bertie's blanket 3 by Sam, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's blanket 3" height="299" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7626/17046868442_011c0e2d51_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/16616982747" title="Seaming by Sam, on Flickr"><img alt="Seaming" height="429" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8612/16616982747_223de9bfb5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/17468402215" title="Card from hospice for the blankets by Sam, on Flickr"><img alt="Card from hospice for the blankets" height="640" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7678/17468402215_6fd799dd16_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
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This was a very sweet card that the hospice sent, thanking us for the blanket. My sincere thanks again to everyone that helped.<br />
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A couple of you have asked if I am still collecting squares. Yes, I am :)<br />
I'd love to collect more of the sock yarn squares. The pattern we've been using is a free ravelry download: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kraft-tanken-patches">Kraft tanken patches</a>. It is perfect for using up those scrappy odds and ends of sock yarn.<br />
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Thanks again for all the support.<br />
Much love,<br />
Sam xxx<br />
<br />Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-28260837456951726092014-03-15T18:55:00.003-07:002014-03-15T18:55:32.774-07:00Berties Blanket #3 is well under wayHard to believe that I haven't been out here since September. Yikes! I apologise for my absence on The Berties Blanket blog. There has been activity... I haven't been very good about sharing it... Sorry :(<br />
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With your help, the sock yarn blanket is coming along nicely, and should be close to completion very soon.<br />
75 squares competed. 16 to go! Wooot!<br />
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Here are some of the squares that were completed since I last blogged here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/13179210094/" title="BB hospice square (Sam) by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB hospice square (Sam)" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/13179210094_d6254a0f6d.jpg" height="335" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/12889635125/" title="Sam: BB Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Sam: BB Squares" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7459/12889635125_c540a2d1a3.jpg" height="335" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/12269089084/" title="Berties Blanket by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3758/12269089084_9fe3bcb546.jpg" height="335" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/10495647514/" title="Gift from Andi by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Gift from Andi" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7412/10495647514_df11a6e123.jpg" height="335" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/9715807468/" title="BB Sock Sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Sock Sam" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7411/9715807468_da99b740b9.jpg" height="247" width="500" /></a><br />
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We are on the home stretch!<br />
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I've found a local hospice organization that are eager to get their hands on this blanket :) <br />
Looking forward to finishing this - it is going to be a beauty!<br />
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Thanks again for all the help,<br />
Sam<br />
xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-76109672910593838752013-09-09T22:24:00.000-07:002013-09-09T22:24:02.335-07:00Bertie's Blanket - Number 2Thank you soo much for all the help to make these hospice blankets. We have now completed blanket #2 - the Aran weight sampler in shades of the sea. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/9715807348/" title="Berties Blanket Aran by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket Aran" height="359" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7423/9715807348_d36ebc5fdb.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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It's hard to believe that it has been 2 years since Dad was diagnosed, and passed from brain cancer. I started this effort one year ago... my thought was to channel some of my feelings and energy into something good; something that would help bring a small comfort to those who also have need for hospice care. What began out of sadness, started to turn into joy when you kindly helped with words of support and generous donations of squares. And here we are with 1 blanket delivered to Trinity hospice already and this 2nd one to go in the mail this week. <br />
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<strong>My sincere and heartfelt thanks go to you for your kind help and support of this project. </strong><br />
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With much love and gratitude, <br />
Sam xxx Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-13490749441250182132013-08-21T03:08:00.000-07:002013-08-21T03:08:30.558-07:00Bertie's Blanket - Number 1This is the first of the Bertie's Blankets to be completed:<br />
Yeaaaaaah!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/9562704704/" title="Berties Blanket #1 by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket #1" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3780/9562704704_645f05bc26.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
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In addition to the 3 blankets that I've been seeking your help with here, Mum was also pulling a blanket together back in the UK. This is a lovely Aran weight blanket with contributions from friends and family back home. <br />
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It turned out lovely, didn't it! I really like the pops of navy, red and fuschia in with the cream. <br />
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Now, I need to get my bum in gear and finish seaming the 'seaside aran' that you all helped me with. I'm halfway there and hope to have pictures to share soon. :o))<br />
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Love,<br />
Sam<br />
xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-88416819509829403182013-07-27T14:14:00.002-07:002013-07-27T14:14:24.939-07:00Some more log cabinsOne of the lovely ladies at Quilt Guild brought these log cabin squares to me the other week. I'm hugely thankful for the support.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/9258138533/" title="BB Log Cabin: Michelle by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Log Cabin: Michelle" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3694/9258138533_039475182d.jpg" width="335" /></a><br />
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Thank you Michelle! <br />
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I am also still plugging away on sewing up the Aran blanket and looking forward to sharing that with you soon. <br />
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Thanks again, and hope you are having a lovely weekend, <br />
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-88925045636633930682013-06-16T16:41:00.002-07:002013-06-16T16:41:52.659-07:00Teaser ShotI've been playing around with the layout of the Coastal Aran Blanket:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/9056636987/" title="Bertie's Blanket layout by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blanket layout" height="375" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2825/9056636987_cc67686bce.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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This is just a little teaser shot. Next up, some seaming and a crochet border. <br />
Thanks again for all your kind contributions - this is a beauty! <br />
Hugs, Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-9819324192631960682013-06-06T04:43:00.003-07:002013-06-06T04:43:41.009-07:00Success: We have enough squares for the Coastal Aran BlanketFriends, <br />
I received a package in the mail yesterday from Jennie (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/ColoradoMom">ColoradoMom on Ravelry</a>) - she'd kindly sent 6 aran squares for the coastal afghan. <strong>That brings us to the 45 needed to complete this blanket! </strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8967260461/" title="BB Aran Squares: Jennie by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Aran Squares: Jennie" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3697/8967260461_50f2727215.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
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I can't tell you how ridiculously happy I am right now, knowing that we have enough squares to complete the first Bertie's Blanket. I'll be doing some seaming over the next few weeks, and posting completed pictures here before I send to Trinity Hospice.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8967260569/" title="BB Aran Squares: Jennie by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Aran Squares: Jennie" height="334" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5325/8967260569_680a03a092.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Thank you soo much Jennie. I was only expecting a couple of squares in the mail, but knew as soon as my daughter turned the mailbox key that we'd hit the jackpot with your parcel! Not only did you provide 6 squares (wowza, thank you), but they are soo beautiful, and I'm loving the floral knit bow that you wrapped them with :) I'll be using that in the blanket as an embellishment, it is soo very pretty.<br />
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What a great feeling, thank you all.<br />
Much love,<br />
Sam<br />
xxx<br />
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PS - If anyone has aran squares in progress, we can still use them. Bertie's Blankets will be an ongoing effort, and so I'll be starting a new aran blanket using the same general size/yarn guidelines. This next one will be using Cath Kidston inspired colours - so we can use blues, greens, creams and add new pops of red and pink.Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-86864408211405158262013-05-28T13:05:00.002-07:002013-05-28T13:05:40.750-07:00More sock yarn squaresThank you <a href="http://knitterinprogress.blogspot.com/">Kim</a>:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8835712598/" title="BB Sock: Kim by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Sock: Kim" height="334" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5342/8835712598_876e1c28a5.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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This brings us 60 sock squares completed, or 2/3 of the way there. <br />
31 squares to go on this blanket.<br />
I think this is going to be beautiful when done.<br />
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FYI, here's a couple more that I worked on earlier this month, but hadn't yet posted.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8721169347/" title="BB Sock: Sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Sock: Sam" height="335" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7438/8721169347_a65f46b085.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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xxx SamSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-31025295674785734982013-05-18T19:58:00.003-07:002013-05-18T20:01:24.908-07:00Wonky Log Cabin SquaresLook at these beauties:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8750969982/" title="BB Log Cabin: Terrie by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB Log Cabin: Terrie" height="334" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2817/8750969982_a3d14ee725.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I was at the Denver Quilt Guild meeting last week when Terrie presented me with these lovely wonky log cabin squares for Bertie's Blanket #3. Terrie has a Midas touch when it comes to her crafts - everything is so beautifully created. These squares are no exception. Thank you soo much :) <br />
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The other advantage about sharing them at the Quilt Guild meeting is that I was able to pull off a shameless plug for Bertie's Blankets. Not typically my style (and I may have turned the colour of a beetroot when I asked), but it's for a worthwhile cause. A couple of the ladies were interested and I was extremely thankful for this. <br />
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I've actually been doing quite a bit of quilting myself recently (I must update <a href="http://sticks-strings.blogspot.com/">my regular blog</a>). All this sewing activity has piqued the interest of Naomi, who asked if she could make a square. Oh yes! I love that she has an interest in crafts. She picked out a bunch of scraps that she liked from my scrap baskets, and we got to work.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8751447051/" title="Working on our BB square by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Working on our BB square" height="375" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2884/8751447051_4857ba1f13.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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The wonky log cabin is a perfect beginners pattern because anything goes. Naomi certainly had fun with this. Here's the end result, another pretty square: <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8752568140/" title="Ta da by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Ta da" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8547/8752568140_be35c4ce3c.jpg" width="334" /></a><br />
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In fact, the little miss was soo pleased that she did a happy dance with the final square :o))<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8751446971/" title="I'm soo happy I could dance by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="I'm soo happy I could dance" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2807/8751446971_c3162b2b2e.jpg" width="375" /></a> <br />
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Hope you are having a lovely weekend, <br />
Sam xxx<br />
Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-74737052080018777092013-05-12T14:00:00.000-07:002013-05-12T14:00:48.075-07:00Happy Mother's DayWishing you all the very best on this Mother's day.<br />
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Today my Sister and Nephew dressed up as super heroes and ran a 10K in aid of Trinity Hospice (where Dad was cared for). It seemed fitting that my sis was dressed as Wonder Woman - a role that all mother's play :) Super heroes also seemed such a great tribute to all the wonderful people that work, and volunteer, at hospices everywhere.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RivC9MVdXojDn0s3yWGpnrc0F9lH2LStR9UUkOQSe0BuvR3MiSaST9cUrl0YFackS1Jzz1mD_8zhOKGo_5zKBa5-ShG37SoIFjv5PzQ93ZKpv4xD3aSNdHuhyBfUHg23_GTMEX-2FcY/s1600/wonder+woman+and+iron+man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" mwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RivC9MVdXojDn0s3yWGpnrc0F9lH2LStR9UUkOQSe0BuvR3MiSaST9cUrl0YFackS1Jzz1mD_8zhOKGo_5zKBa5-ShG37SoIFjv5PzQ93ZKpv4xD3aSNdHuhyBfUHg23_GTMEX-2FcY/s320/wonder+woman+and+iron+man.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonder Woman and Iron Man</td></tr>
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Since it's the beginning of a new month, I wanted to provide a quick update on Bertie's Blankets for Trinity Hospice:<br />
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Blanket 1: Aran blanket in soothing shades of the sea<br />
<ul>
<li>45 9"x9" squares needed</li>
<li>39 squares received to date</li>
<li>Sooooo very close to the finish line :)</li>
</ul>
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Blanket 2: Sock yarn blanket in bright, happy colours of the rainbow<br />
<ul>
<li>91 6"x6" squares needed</li>
<li>56 squares received to date</li>
<li>We are past the half way mark</li>
</ul>
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Blanket 3: Wonky log cabin quilt<br />
<ul>
<li>45 9"x9" squares needed</li>
<li>7 squares received to date</li>
<li>Out of the starting gate...</li>
</ul>
Wishing you all the very best.<br />
Love,<br />
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-27693664169737327012013-04-09T19:19:00.001-07:002013-04-09T19:19:06.819-07:00Coming togetherA couple extra aran squares arrived in the mail this week: Thank you Monica :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8607869244/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Monica Sweet Purls by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Monica Sweet Purls" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8245/8607869244_447db8fe45.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And I was able to make a few extra sock yarn squares:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8635570751/" title="BB: Sam sock yarn squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="BB: Sam sock yarn squares" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8635570751_5ca939f15b.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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We have quite the bundle of squares now and so I thought it would be fun to start playing around with potential layouts. I thought you'd like to see what we have so far. First the sock yarn squares... look at this pile of goodies:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8635558039/" title="Big ol pile of sock yarn squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Big ol pile of sock yarn squares" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8125/8635558039_b5ed933cb6.jpg" width="375" /></a> <br />
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I really enjoyed sorting these into piles of similar colours and then laying them out in different arrangements. Check out what we have so far:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8636664428/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Playing around with the layout by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Playing around with the layout" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8394/8636664428_8567e628ff.jpg" width="496" /></a> <br />
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I am really excited about this one. I love all the different colours, and how they come together soo nicely. Thank you friends. <br />
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49 sock yarn squares so far. Still need more to make this a good size blanket for a single bed. But ooh it's good to see this great progress! <br />
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And of course the aran blanket in the coastal colours... we have a good pile of squares for this one too:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8635558125/" title="Aran squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Aran squares" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8635558125_54608eec5f.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
I had fun trying to figure out a good layout for this one too - mixing up the colours and the patterns:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8635557911/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Playing with the aran layout by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Playing with the aran layout" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8635557911_df777b1fea.jpg" width="375" /></a> <br />
<br />
32 squares so far. This one is really close now. <br />
<br />
I hadn't previously set a date for completing these blankets. <br />
But as we start entering summer, I start thinking about when Dad was admitted to hospice, and how it would be nice to have at least one of the blankets completed and shipped to recognize that. That target date is July. I think that is doable, would you agree?<br />
<br />
Thank you again for all the support.<br />
Love,<br />
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-71270404327337143802013-03-17T12:38:00.004-07:002013-03-17T12:44:34.813-07:00You made my week, thank youIt has been a tough week, or so. Over on my <a href="http://sticks-strings.blogspot.com/">regular blog</a> I'd posted that I had gone back to the UK to spend time with my Grandma who was battling stage 4 breast cancer. Well, my dear sweet Grandma passed recently and it has been hard being soo far away from 'home' and family, but I am thankful that I was able to get back earlier to spend some good quality time together. She was an amazing lady and I miss her dearly. <br />
<br />
Grandma was receiving hospice care at a palliative care nursing home. It impressed upon me again how close to my heart this project is, and how extremely thankful I am for your support. And good grief did this project receive your support this week - there have been a number of packages in the mail! It truly lifted my spirits. There's good friends locally who are helping out, but also people that I've never met before, or don't know me from Adam. And yet are kind enough to find the time, materials and love to particpate. I have to pinch myself sometimes just to believe it.<br />
<br />
So onto the good stuff - here are the wonderful squares that arrived this week. My heartfelt thanks to you all.<br />
<br />
From the very sweet Misun:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8552331895/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Misun aran by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Misun aran" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8517/8552331895_2fc2c67842.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
And to coin a phrase... 'But wait, there's more:"<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8552331811/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Misun sock by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Misun sock" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8239/8552331811_c409c3dbeb.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
Good grief I thought I'd hit the jackpot with this package :) Thank you Misun.<br />
<br />
Stacey had another sock square for me:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8552331757/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Stacey sock by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Stacey sock" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8552331757_2a5d3fcbb4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
The lovely Luna sent these all the way from Australia! (Not to mention she has recently upped and moved house and still found time to whip these out and get them in the mail. Wowza, thank you.)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8566336354/" title="Bertie Blanket: Luna by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie Blanket: Luna" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8531/8566336354_05ff1c8554.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
Another lovely square from Marsha:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8565240435/" title="Bertie Blanket: Marsha by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie Blanket: Marsha" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8565240435_3562a64657.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
And a couple more sock squares from Amina (pretty, pretty colours)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8566336162/" title="Berties Blanket: Amina by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket: Amina" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8566336162_a25f39194c.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
Even Naomi was giddy about the number of packages that came in this week. She celebrated her 3rd birthday at the end of Feb and now thinks any package that arrives in the mail is intended for her. I was happy to go along with this as she was tickled pink: Mommy, mommy, look at all these pretty squares. That's right sweetie, they are very pretty, and there are good, kind people out there. <br />
<br />
Grandma was soo happy that we were doing this. She was an extremely talented knitter, and a generous soul. It broke her heart to see her son, my Dad, in hospice. I like to think that she and Dad are looking down and cheering us all on. <br />
<br />
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, <br />
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-34283791632576604632013-03-01T22:56:00.003-08:002013-03-03T18:05:40.138-08:00March 1 Progress<em>"A pinch and a punch for the first of the month, white rabbits!"</em><br />
<br />
You are probably thinking this is an odd way to start a blog post. :) Well, it's this quirky little saying that my family use in the UK. It is said on the first day of every month, and should be the first words uttered when you wake. The idea is that it brings you good luck for the rest of the month. So, although these aren't the first words that left my lips this morning, they are the first on this blog post. I hope it counts :)<br />
(And be thankful you aren't here to get the little pinch and playful punch that goes with it... I remember mornings as a kid when that's how Mum would wake us up, and if she didn't get me first I have a couple of siblings who were more than willing :o)))<br />
I babble :)<br />
<br />
But there is something special about the beginning of anything... a new year, a new month, or even a new day. There's a promise of good things that could be in store for us, or the chance to start afresh and make new goals. I hope March brings many wonderful things to you and your families.<br />
<br />
February certainly brought many wonderful squares to Bertie's Blankets - we are making excellent progress, thanks to your support.<br />
<br />
<strong>1. The Coastal Aran blanket</strong> is now halfway there, with 22 squares received and notes form many of you that more are on the way. 45 squares needed to complete this one.<br />
<br />
<strong>2. The Sock Yarn blanket has</strong> also made great progress with 37 squares received (again notes that additional squares are in progress or on their way :). 91 squares needed to complete this one.<br />
<br />
3. There's also the <strong>Wonky Log Cabin</strong> with 6 squares received so far. 45 needed to complete this one.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">There's still plenty of time to contribute, if you'd like to participate. I'm going to keep plugging away on these until we have enough squares to complete these blankets.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">--> </span></strong><a href="http://bertiesblankets.blogspot.com/2012/11/and-so-it-begins.html"><strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">Guidelines for the blankets are here</span></strong></a><strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">.</span></strong><br />
<br />
Here are pictures of squares that I received recently:<br />
<br />
5 lovely knit and crochet squares from <a href="http://mysistersknitter.typepad.com/">Andi</a>:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8512796941/" title="Bertie's Blanket: Andi by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blanket: Andi" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8088/8512796941_82ce63e6e3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
That's right, if you want to crochet a square, instead of knit one, they are gladly received :) <br />
Thanks so much <a href="http://mysistersknitter.typepad.com/">Andi</a> they are lovely xxx <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/beachknitting">Marsha</a> has also made this pretty aran square out of the Martha Stewart yarn. This is sooo soft, and I love this serene colour. It is super sophisticated, just like Marsha :) Thank you Marsha xxx<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8513906784/" title="Bertie's Blanket: Marsha by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blanket: Marsha" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8513906784_d4777f506a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
I am trying to keep pace with your kind contributions... here's a couple more that I was able to make, using the Lion Brand Wool-Ease yarn:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8512797087/" title="Bertie's Blanket: Sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blanket: Sam" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8512797087_60c3e06729.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
For the sock blanket, I received this pretty square from <a href="http://ilhamknitting.blogspot.com/">Amina</a>. Amina you are a sweetheart and I m thankful for your support xxx:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8513906716/" title="Bertie's Blanket: Amina by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blanket: Amina" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8513906716_7149ca9ab3.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
And of course, a couple that I was able to work on (I probably mentioned this before: These are fun, and portable, little squares to work on... and I get a sense of satisfaction knowing that my leftover bits of sock yarn are being put to such good use):<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8512796727/" title="Berties Blanket: Sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket: Sam" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8512796727_958efa0ecf.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
I need to get cracking and make a couple of the wonky log cabin squares too. Anyone want to join me? <br />
<br />
Thanks again for all your kind support.<br />
Wishing you all good things for the month ahead.<br />
Love,<br />
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-55798243596525145062013-02-18T08:23:00.000-08:002013-02-18T08:23:28.143-08:00Out of AfricaThese bright and happy squares:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8482902398/" title="Berties Blanket sock squares: Stacey and Marsha by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket sock squares: Stacey and Marsha" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8087/8482902398_8c6b3a6b8d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Were contributed by these lovely ladies:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8485157423/" title="The lovely Beach Beauties by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="The lovely Beach Beauties" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8092/8485157423_76f89e6c44.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
With a little help from some friends:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8485158943/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8372/8485158943_e09f0717d5.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Stacey and Marsha recently returned from a medical mission trip to Rwanda, where they spent time at an orphanage. Yes, they really are some of the loveliest people you will meet. :)<br />
<br />
There are soo many things about this that bring me joy, aside from the obvious 'good people doing good things':<br />
<ul>
<li>Bertie's Blankets is reaching far and wide with contributions from: America, Europe, Australia and now Africa... how cool is this! </li>
<li>The 'stories' that a blanket like this could tell. (These particular squares have even been on safari!)</li>
<li>That folks from all walks of life, despite their own difficult situations, are contributing to this effort</li>
<li>That this also brings joy to those taking part... case in point with the next photo:</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8485158021/" title="Knitting Joy by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Joy" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8376/8485158021_645edd8855.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Oh, yes, and not least that my dear friends were willing to humor my request to take Bertie's Blanket square pictures while they were on such an important trip. Thank you for taking these, and for letting me share them here :) <br />
<br />
I'll leave you with a couple more pictures that captured my heart:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486249904/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8520/8486249904_ae5c155880.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486250388/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blankets Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blankets Squares" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8385/8486250388_1599751384.jpg" width="335" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486250540/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8486250540_aa6d1a3600.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486251128/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8486251128_fcbae347c1.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486251186/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8486251186_5b816d5202.jpg" width="375" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486251502/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8381/8486251502_a973b4490f.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8486251574/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8381/8486251574_04105c23d4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Thank you ladies xxx<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8485157485/" title="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Knitting Bertie's Blanket Squares" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8485157485_e1bece2043.jpg" width="500" /></a>Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-19645247410886875552013-02-06T06:00:00.002-08:002013-02-06T11:33:50.629-08:00Feb 1 ProgressWe are making a great start on the 3 hospice blankets, thank you!<br />
<br />
I've been trying to figure out how many squares we'll need for each of the 3 blankets to get a sense of the progress we've made so far. It looks like a single blanket size in the UK is approximately 39" x 76". <br />
<br />
For the <strong>Coastal Aran Blanket</strong>, we'd need 45 of the 9" squares to make a blanket this size. As of 1 Feb, we've created 12 beautiful squares, leaving us 33 more to go. I've heard from a number of you that additional squares are on the way. Thank you :)<br />
<br />
For the <strong>Scrappy Sock Blanket</strong> we'll need 91 of the 6" squares. As of 1 Feb we've created 31 fabulous squares leaving us 60 more to go.<br />
<br />
Most recently I received these lovely 5 squares from Judy at Fiber Experiences. Thanks soo much Judy, I love these colours and that you were able to contribute so many. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8448665776/" title="Bertie's Sock: Judy P @ Fiber Experiences by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Sock: Judy P @ Fiber Experiences" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8188/8448665776_daf07bfc76.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
The sock squares are my favourite to work on - I find them quite addicting and love being able to use up leftover odds and ends of sock yarn. I've also been able to complete a few more since the last post:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8447577921/" title="Bertie's sock: Sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's sock: Sam" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8229/8447577921_1009bf5210.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8417572682/" title="Berties Blanket: sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket: sam" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8362/8417572682_8a44c1c780.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
And last but not least is the <strong>wonky log cabin quilt</strong>. We'll need 45 of the 9" squares. I've received 6 so far, leaving 39 to create. Most recently I received these 3 beauties from Sharon, all the way from Australia! How cool is that! (And touched my heart).<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8421074380/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Sharon M by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Sharon M" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8185/8421074380_32e7893982.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://bertiesblankets.blogspot.com/2012/11/and-so-it-begins.html">As a reminder, here are the guidelines for the 3 blankets we are working on.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for your continued support of this project.<br />
Much love,<br />
Sam <br />
xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-10478858571018734982013-01-12T20:01:00.003-08:002013-01-12T20:01:14.963-08:00Additional thanks to...I was happy to be able to meet up with some of my local knitter friends today, and was happier still when they started handing over squares that they had knit for Bertie's Blankets:<br />
<br />
My heartfelt thanks to you all:<br />
<br />
Kim at <a href="http://knitterinprogress.blogspot.com/">Knitter in Progress</a> kindly gifted 4 sock yarn squares. I know, 4! I felt like I had hit the jackpot :) The shades of green were selected by Kim's daughter, who is obviously in the know as I recently read (I think it was a Vogue knitting email) that emerald green is the pantone colour of the year :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8374385355/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Kim @ Knitter in Progress by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Kim @ Knitter in Progress" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8375/8374385355_3f21c519a5.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Terrie at <a href="http://starspry.wordpress.com/">Starspry</a> knit up 3 squares for the coastal afghan. I think the one with the heart might be my favourite because it visually communicates the love that is put into each of these. It is such a sweet touch that I'm tempted to do something similar for one of the sock yarn squares, so that each of the blankets we donate has a little heart in the bottom corner of each blanket.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8374385039/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Terrie @ Starspry by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Terrie @ Starspry" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8374385039_5aa8be2aaf.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/bookgirljen">Jennifer</a> shared a couple in this great basket weave pattern. This is a super stitch pattern and I am really fond of this deeper shade of blue; it is going to provide a lovely contrast to some of the lighter shades that we have collected so far.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8374384723/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Jennifer C by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Jennifer C" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8471/8374384723_f63e39fece.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Cynthia at <a href="http://virtueofpatience.blogspot.com/">Virtue of Patience</a> provided this lovely moss stitch square in self-striping shades of lavender, blue and greys. Cyn, if you read this I'd love to know what yarn you use - it is so pretty and I'd love to make a couple more.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8375458850/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Cyn by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Cyn" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8086/8375458850_0da42aa0f4.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
I'm trying to keep pace with all the kind contributions and have also made a couple more for the sock yarn blanket.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8375459188/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Sam by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Sam" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8375459188_350feda73e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Thank you. Your friendship and kind support of this project is dearly appreciated.<br />
Hugs,<br />
Sam<br />
xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-86018464012539788122013-01-08T17:02:00.000-08:002013-01-08T17:06:40.344-08:00Thank you xxxBig thanks to Monica at <a href="http://sweetpurls.blogspot.com/">s w e e t p u r l s</a>, for these beautiful squares for the Coastal aran-weight hospice blanket:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8363263048/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Squares from Monica SweetPurls by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Squares from Monica SweetPurls" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8464/8363263048_4a510fe8c6.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Aren't they pretty! They are made from Martha Stewart's Extra Soft Wool Blend, and are true to the description - so wonderfully soft. Such a lovely shade of blue too. Now, as if this wasn't kind enough, Monica also sent some lovely stitch markers too. You really are super sweet, thank you so much.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8363262900/" title="Stitch markers from Monica SweetPurls by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Stitch markers from Monica SweetPurls" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8185/8363262900_18f1e6fae6.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
A couple of days later I received a package from Wendy at <a href="http://www.wendymeyen.com/">WendyWorld</a> containing these gorgeous wonky log cabin squares for the hospice quilt. These were exactly the types of colours I had envisioned when thinking about a quilted blanket. Thank you so much Wendy, they are beautiful. Naomi thanks you for the candy canes too :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8363262818/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Wonky log cabin from Wendy by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Wonky log cabin from Wendy" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8492/8363262818_db39fe3242.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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This morning I received an email from Wendy's Mum... she has also created a couple of wonky log cabin squares for Bertie's Blankets. I can't tell you how touched I was. Of course I immediately emailed my Mum to share the wonderful news and she had the same response I did - tears. Happy, happy tears in response to such kind words and deeds.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8363262760/" title="Bertie's Blankets: Wonky log cabin from Wendy by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: Wonky log cabin from Wendy" height="442" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8326/8363262760_463170769e.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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Thank you so much.<br />
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I've also been working on squares for the coastal aran blanket and the sock yarn blanket. They are starting to come together, and thanks to your help I am super excited about getting a couple of blankets to Trinity Hospice early this year.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8363263112/" title="Bertie's Blankets: My aran squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: My aran squares" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8363263112_993353f996.jpg" width="500" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8362200379/" title="Bertie's Blankets: My sock Yarn squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blankets: My sock Yarn squares" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8226/8362200379_8b656f80b9.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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With all these squares rolling in, they needed a temporary home while we accumulate enough to make a blanket. My friend Stacey already had this covered and gifted this awesome bag for the blanket squares. Yes, I might have had a weepy moment then too ;)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8352702986/" title="For storing all the lovely Bertie's blanket squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="For storing all the lovely Bertie's blanket squares" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8476/8352702986_75aa1a2e62.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I am thankful for all your help and support. <br />
Much love, <br />
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-53769425058213220562012-12-05T19:36:00.000-08:002013-02-17T08:29:55.692-08:00Giving ThanksIt's been a busy couple of weeks here: We celebrated Thanksgiving 'the real one' with one of Joe's brothers, and then did a re-run last week with my brother and sister-in-law. Why twice? I learned this year that Thanksgiving isn't the last Thursday in November, but the 4th Thursday in November... by the time I had this figured out, my brother had already bought his tickets for the end of the month. Oops! Although, it was a great excuse to celebrate for a full 2 weeks. :)<br />
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I love the Thanksgiving holiday - friends, family, good food and the opportunity to reflect upon all that I am thankful for. I wanted to let you know that you've all been in my thoughts: I can't tell you how thankful I am for your friendship and generous support in this endeavour. I feel truly blessed. Thank you.<br />
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Here are some of the Bertie's Blankets contributions that are in progress. I am so excited that this dream is becoming a reality; that we can pull together and create some handmade blankets that will bring comfort to those in need. <br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://laluuu.wordpress.com/2012/11/29/berties-blankets-knitting-for-a-cause/comment-page-1/#comment-60">Laluuu</a>: Such a warm, rich colour, and loving the ridge squares</li>
<li><a href="http://mysistersknitter.typepad.com/my-blog/2012/11/hello-there-.html">My Sister's Knitter:</a> Look how delicate and pretty these squares are</li>
<li><a href="http://savannahchik.com/2012/11/giving-thanks-and-paying-it-forward.htm">SavannahChik</a>: These are some beautiful blues, I feel the coast calling</li>
<li><a href="http://sweetpurls.blogspot.com/2012/12/finding-peace.html">SweetPurls</a>: I feel serene just looking at these sophisticated squares</li>
<li><a href="http://www.wendymeyen.com/berties-blankets/">Wendy World</a>: I can't wait to see the wonky log cabin squares and appreciate the help in thinking through the type of squares and colour scheme</li>
</ul>
Andi of 'My Sister's Knitter' had asked if we can crochet squares. Oh yes please! :)<br />
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I've been able to knit up a couple extra squares too. A couple more for the coastal blanket:<br />
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8363263112/" title="Bertie's Blankets: My aran squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8363263112_993353f996.jpg" width="500" height="335" alt="Bertie's Blankets: My aran squares"></a>
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And a couple more for the sock yarn blanket:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8234461679/" title="More berties sock squares by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8486/8234461679_06eccee41d.jpg" width="500" height="335" alt="More berties sock squares"></a>
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Thank you again my lovely friends<br />
xxx Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-12165523765189382952012-11-19T19:25:00.003-08:002013-02-17T08:32:47.138-08:00Have you cast on?I've heard from a bunch of you that you have cast on for some squares already - Thank you! I can't wait to see the colours and stitch patterns that you have chosen. :) I've also started: I have 2 blue squares for the coastal aran weight afghan. Both are moss/seed stitch. I want to do some cable squares next. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8180406006/" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Berties Blanket #1 by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket #1" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8348/8180406006_0b96f581a0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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I've also got a few sock yarn squares completed too - these are portable and simple. Good on-the-go projects!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8201031939/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Berties Blanket #2 by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket #2" height="335" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8342/8201031939_0aaede671e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Mum has also been busy cranking out squares and drumming up volunteers in the UK - this will be Bertie's Blanket #4. If anyone in the UK wants to get involved, her squares are 9"x9" in an aran weight yarn and the predominant colour is cream. My sister in law has whipped one out already, Mum has 4 completed and my sis has one on the go. Maybe this will be the first blanket to be completed!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8201031791/" title="Bertie's Blanket #4 Collage by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Bertie's Blanket #4 Collage" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8348/8201031791_cb8d68e589.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Thanks again for the interest and support.<br />
Hugs,<br />
Sam<br />
xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-62535541800401425732012-11-12T15:59:00.001-08:002013-02-17T08:33:58.399-08:00Berties Blanket #1: Coastal AfghanThis Veteran's Day weekend I picked up some Lion Brand Wool-Ease and Vanna's Choice for the Afghan blanket - Bertie's Blanket #1!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/92572520@N00/8180406006/" title="Berties Blanket #1 by samjoepics, on Flickr"><img alt="Berties Blanket #1" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8348/8180406006_0b96f581a0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li>Wool-ease worsted in natural heather </li>
<li>Wool-ease worsted in grey heather </li>
<li>Wool-ease worsted in sea spray </li>
<li>Vanna’s Choice in silver blue </li>
</ul>
I found some of the softer shades of blues, grey and cream that I had in mind for 'coastal colours'. I still need to find some stronger bluey greens to help make this pop a little! But I have started... :)<br />
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A little Veteran's/Remembrance Day side note: Did I mention that Dad was a Royal Marine? He joined up at a ridiculously young age - 14 years <strike>old</strike> young! He was able to join at such a young age because he was a bandsman and they like the extra time to train them to Royal Marine Band standards. He was an extremely talented musician. Later on he also volunteered all the time at our local Sea Cadets unit - he was one of the leads for the Marine Cadets. The boys just thought he was the bee's knees to the point that a couple seemingly adopted him :) Anyhoo, this weekend brought back fond memories of Remembrance Day services at the local Cenotaph, with the cadets, my Dad and all my family, paying respects to those who have served. <br />
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Here's a picture of Dad when he joined - I still can't get over how young they all are, and in particular my Dad was quite the babyface! :)))<br />
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It felt good to start this effort on Veteran's weekend/Remembrance Day. Thanks again for the positive response - I am overjoyed with your genorosity. <br />
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Hugs,<br />
Sam xxx<br />
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PS - we now have a ravelry group: Bertie's BlanketsSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-75465070824970139132012-11-11T08:35:00.001-08:002013-02-17T08:35:17.914-08:00Guidelines: Blankets 1, 2 and 3Hello my dear crafty Friends,<br />
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I received the following article from my mum this morning: Trinity hospice is in need of blankets to bring comfort and warmth to the folks that they are caring for. This is where my Dad was looked after in his final days, and I can tell you wholeheartedly that these blankets <em><u>do</u></em> make a difference and are thoroughly appreciated. The only requirement is that the blankets need to be machine washable. <br />
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I would like to put together 3 blankets for Trinity Hospice. <strong>Would you be willing to contribute a square, or 2, to this very worthwhile cause?</strong><br />
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I've suggested patterns and colours below for folks looking for guidance. But I'll take any square that you would be willing to donate. Thank you.<br />
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<u>Option 1: Afghan Sampler Blanket</u></div>
<ul>
<li>Knit using afghan/worsted weight yarn</li>
<li>US8 needles</li>
<li>Final square to measure 9" x 9"</li>
<li>Use a stitch pattern of your choosing, or if you'd like to follow a published pattern, please check out this <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/L0563.html" target="_blank">Lion Brand sampler blanket pattern L0563</a> (you can login to the site for free)</li>
<li>A great way to use those 40-60% off vouchers at the big box yarn stores... and looking at the pattern it looks like you can get 2 squares out of one skein of a lion brand ball of yarn</li>
<li>Since Trinity Hospice is located in a coastal town, lets use the colours of the sea on this one (throw in some white for the 'surf' and this would be a really soothing colour scheme of shades of blue and white):</li>
</ul>
Image courtesey of design seeds: <a href="http://design-seeds.com/index.php/home/entry/crashing-tones1">http://design-seeds.com/index.php/home/entry/crashing-tones1</a><br />
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<u>Option 2: Scrappy Sock Yarn Blanket</u><br />
<ul>
<li>Do you have lots of leftover scraps of sock yarn. A lot of this stuff is machine washable! Let's put it to good use with this really simple pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/kraft-tanken-patches#" target="_blank">Kraft-Tanken-Patches</a> (free Ravelry download)</li>
<li>The squares are 15cm x 15 cm (6" x 6") and are a simple knit on the diagonal</li>
<li>The pattern recommends a US1-3 needle, depending upon gauge</li>
<li>As for colour scheme, anything goes - let's send a bright happy rainbow of colours with this one :)</li>
</ul>
<u>Option 3: Wonky log cabin Quilt</u><br />
<ul>
<li>There are some wonderful wonky log cabin quilts out in blogland. Another great way to put your leftover bits and pieces of fabric to good use. </li>
<li>I'll be making squares that are 9" by 9" out of my fabric scraps</li>
<li>My thoughts are to use brights or pastels that are complimented with soothing neutrals like beige and cream</li>
<li>Here's a great tutorial for the type of wonky log cabin block that I was thinking about: <a href="http://www.quiltdad.com/2009/09/quilt-along-3-wonky-log-cabin-block.html">http://www.quiltdad.com/2009/09/quilt-along-3-wonky-log-cabin-block.html</a></li>
<li>The colours are also similar to what I had in mind, with brights + pastels + some cream/neutral</li>
<li>(I'll be adding a cream border to each of the wonky squares that you send me, so that this will help tie them altogether into one coordinated blanket)</li>
</ul>
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I can't tell you how much this means to me. I've been thinking about doing something like this since the day Dad was admitted. <a href="http://bertiesblankets.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Could this be the beginning of Bertie's Blankets?</a> :) I'm glad that this article gave me the push, and the wonderful response I got from my fb knitter friends spurred me on. Thank you.<br />
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I'll collect the squares and assemble them, and then ship to Trinity.<br />
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Much love and big hugs,<br />
Sam xxx Samhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2620374139463208702.post-7538111913817299712012-09-27T02:48:00.001-07:002012-09-29T20:20:12.607-07:00Bringing comfort and warmthA year ago my Dad passed away. He was one of those people that never got sick - a good, strong, healthy man. And yet in June last year he just 'didn't feel right'. He wasn't: He had an aggressive form of brain cancer. <br />
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In a matter of weeks this disease started to take away his ability to do the most basic things: He could no longer walk, stand, or even keep himself propped upright in bed. My Mum had done an amazing job of taking loving care of him at home, but when it reached the point that it was no longer possible to provide the care he needed at home they both agreed that he move to the local hospice to be lovingly cared for there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad with Naomi, less than a year before his diagnosis</td></tr>
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I cannot express enough thanks for the care, attention and love that my Dad (and our family and friends) received at Trinity Hospice. There is comfort and warmth everywhere you turn.</div>
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One of the seemingly small details that added comfort and warmth to his stay was the cosy blankets and throws that were used there. There were a couple of quilts and lap blankets that had been generously donated to bring a little comfort to those at the hospice. On my Dad's bed there was a beautifully hand crafted quilt, in soothing, uplifting colours. As most crafters know, there is something very special about an item that you know someone has spent time and effort creating. </div>
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So, for the last year I've had this idea rattling around my head to create and donate blankets to local hospices. Quilted, knit, crocheted, it doesn't matter. Just as long as they are machine washable. I figured if I started to put my thoughts to 'paper' that this might actually turn into something real (and not just an idea that rattles around my brain, keeping me awake in the middle of the night!).</div>
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My Dad's nickname was 'Bertie', and my first thought was to label the blankets as 'Bertie's Blankets' to honour his memory. (I even have an image in my mind of what the label would look like... I'm just lacking the graphic design skills to make it a reality!)</div>
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I could start small with my own efforts. But then started thinking about the power of the Internet to help bring awareness and interest in contributing to this worthy cause. More to come on that topic.</div>
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For now it is bed time. As my husband is telling me, I'll be a wreck at work tomorrow if I don't get some sleep :o)))</div>
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Night, night,</div>
Sam xxxSamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16281464740064690657noreply@blogger.com5