Heatwave

 It’s been a bit warmer the past few days. I’m not quoting any numbers because it’s all relative. Let it suffice to say that we don’t have any air conditioning. The biggest impact on my life is when I have tatting or stitching to do. My hands really sweat when the temperature climbs. So, no pictures to show and no stories to tell.

Well, a story: The other morning the wind was from just the right direction and things were still, so still that I heard the bell buoy. The sound just came wafting over the trees all the way (1/5 mile) from the Bay.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Around me

Have you ever waded in the ocean with the sea swirling around your ankles? It’s fascinating to watch the water. The foam creates wonderful patterns. The sun glints off the surface. Water is very powerful and can push the sand around. Your feet can be sunk into the wet sand quite quickly. It’s easy to become really engrossed in what’s happening right at your feet.

And dangerous

The ocean is not to be ignored. Especially where we live a sneaker wave can come in and you find yourself fighting for your life in deeper and deeper water with no way to get to safety. It is a matter of life and death that you never, ever turn your back to the sea; nor do you ever forget to keep an eye on the surf. Even if you’re just strolling along the edge of the water enjoying the beach.

Right now around me is another situation where you never ignore your surroundings.  About 10 miles from my house there is a wildfire burning. It’s big. It’s going to be burning for days. It’s not threatening my home. But, the air is smoky. I still have taken time to be prepared just in case things change. I’ve got my eye of the surf. I’ve got my eye of the wind and alerts set up on my phone.

I am safe.

The river runs

The atmospheric river is running again. That’s overall a good thing. We need the rain. Less wind would be nice, but the plants are looking much healthier. Of course, we Mother Nature so active in the yard, I’ve had less time for inside pursuits. 

The chores are piling up. No choice but to set aside work for a day on the tatting and music, and get things done!

If the weather holds!

Oh, and the Pattern page will be back up next week. I didn't realize it was down until today. Apologies to those looking for the patterns.

Half Way DONE!

Back in November the OnLine class looked at the antique patterns as published by Mlle Riego. About that time, a linen blouse I picked up from Coldwater Creek developed a problem with the lace trimming. 

Nothing for it but to tat up a replacement! 

Thus was born this project. One strip done, the other loaded on the shuttle (with almost 600 beads and almost 12 yards of thread) to be prepared for blocking and sewing on. Should be done just about the time warm weather hits!

OK….those who know Monterey, know that’ll be October!

Nothing like a realistic goal…snicker, snort!!!!

experiments successful

Pictures of the garden haven’t been easy to catch. The weather has been blustery, dry, and cloudy. The area doesn’t look much different than it did here, so I won’t post until it does look different. That’s positive, really, as my track record with plants is not as good as with tatting or organ. I should stick to what I do best.

Adding a lot of beads to the Dazzling Debut design has been successful. I can’t share pictures here until after the whole project is finished and delivered. Sorry. Take the word of the other tatters that see them: Wow! Nice! They add to the design. I knew Marilee’s design would be a great foundation for this experiment. I have the book on my wish list. I don’t think the friend I borrowed it from to tat this pattern will let it go. I do hope Spring comes soon for Marilee soon. I really like her new colorway also. Check it out: http://yarnplayertats.blogspot.com/

I don’t typically work in dark thread. And I like the beads to show up in contrast to the thread. But this pattern isn’t typical. The musical piece is a warm, gentle work. I like the way the beads and thread are gentle on the eyes. Now to add the outer edging.

After watering the new plants, blocking the earrings, and practicing for Friday. I’m playing at St. Paul’s again.

Tablet weaving

Well, the weather has been nicer. The seal pups are growing. The garden is growing. The tatting is growing. 

I’m also preparing for another workshop. This one I’m learning more about card weaving. Here’s a good link:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tablet_weaving 

and some great examples:

 

Incidentally, scholars “argued spiritedly” about how an ancient Egyptian linen belt was woven. That’s what pricked my interest years ago. No, not the argument. Geesh. The use of linen in an example that has survived so many years. Linen as a fiber intrigues me. I tat mostly with cotton as that’s what is readily available. I do plan to explore tatting with linen.

of hail and rainbows

Well, the weather is being very fickle! It hailed yesterday. So, all those succulents we planted? They’re shivering!!! Then the sun poked through just at sunset creating a double rainbow.

I found more Connectors, so the stars will go on the flag soon. And….

Another successful organ concert was enjoyed yesterday.

Life is good….

I have several huge projects on the shuttles. This means there’s not much to share here. I am taking time to visit and comment. Although I fear what I have to say really isn’t earth-shattering. If you like, let me know what you think I should comment on. Hint, Hint….

Now, to see what needs to be cleaned up from Mother Nature……

More ideas than time....especially when the weather is nice!

Still playing with beads and curled rings. Several ideas worked. Two did not. So, forward progress overall. Keeping on task will be difficult. The weather is drop dead gorgeous, I was gifted a bag full of Workbasket magazines, and I have several more ideas to try out for Bach Festival and the earring design I’m working on.  It rained last night so the newly planted plants are happy. I’ve got more ideas than time, I’m happy!
Happy Tatting AND music making!

KISS works again!

The weather report has been Simple for the week: RAIN!

We need the rain. Hopefully it will continue in the gentle way it came down yesterday. The plants are loving it. The house is warm and dry. The projects beckon. But, first I must get into the cupboards and tidy and file away!

First, I’ll share a picture of the edging I added to a stitching project. I succeeded in keeping it simple!

Comments from the Judge

My items from the Fair, both exhibits and display, are back home. Boyhuey was it hot out there today. Fortunately, the wind is off the Bay so the house is staying cooler. I don’t envy those packing up the carnival rides.

As I stowed all the little tatted pieces, I took some time to look over the comments from the judge on the Needlecraft and Fiberwork pieces. I didn’t have a comment sheet for the Bux2Bach piece I entered in the Fine Arts 3-D show. I’m happy with 2^nd place. The piece that won 1^st place is very nice. Good execution, design and craftsmanship. I have already decided I need to enter the juried division next year. And perhaps a jewelry piece.

Anyway, back to the comments. Most of the observations were spot on. For instance, the piece that won best of show (insert jpegs) earned all 100 points possible.

 

“Beautiful stitches. Wonderful use of color and beads. Excellent.” I’m very happy with that. Now to add the other 7 rows. What color to use next? And beads or no beads????

I plan to help with the Entry divisions and classes list for next year. I really hope more people enter some tatting. And maybe even some crotatting!

Sun, what sun???

I took time yesterday for reflecting. Since the fog stayed around well into the afternoon, we didn’t have much to see for the solar eclipse. It did get quiet. And a bit darker for a few minutes. So, we experienced the event, just didn’t see much. Ah well, even if I’m not seeing as often the sunrise show, and the white deer is no longer walking through the neighborhood, our resident yard cat is still coming around for scritches.

Most of my tatting time was spent putting things away. I gathered up the patterns I used for the Fair items. I like to have patterns on hand when I demonstrate. I’ve realized that I am drawn to tatting designs that are as intriguing in the written form as they are in thread. Most of the patterns I use by other designers are readily available on the web or in book form. I usually make a copy that I can mark up with my notes; like what thread I’m using and how much I wind onto the shuttles, what beads I pick, what size picot I use, and any resources I use for tricks and tips. If I’m really going to meet my goals for tatting, I have to keep as good records as I do for music.

The rest of the week I’ll be working on music catching up. I need to work on the harpsichord and plan practice for the sub jobs I’ve committed to. I’d also like to update my material for all things organ in the Monterey/Carmel area. Plenty to do. After a walk to the library and maybe a treat.

I'm learning a lot

I understand that will keep me young. But, right now, my head feels like bursting, my muscles ache, and I have way too much on my plate. So, if you asked me to do something, and I’ve forgotten or muffed it, please remind me. Well, not that I muffed it, unless I haven’t clued in. I’m learning a lot.

The Blackwork is buried. We discovered the upstairs toilet has been leaking tiny amounts for quite some time. So, a trip to the store to pick up fresh seals, hours stripping paint off wet plaster, and shifting things so that they don’t get covered with the fine dust of “remodel” activities. Until things get repaired and re-shifted, no pictures.

Oh, and another storm is due later this week. My question: Will we end up in someone’s paper for a Science conference this summer? Too much to clean up, repair, and put away for me to write it! Guess I’d better get busy!

Atmospheric River aftermath

Well, the best laid plans.

I’ve been busy lately. Mostly dealing with the aftermath of the Atmospheric River. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmospheric_river 

http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2017/02/california-rains-put-spotlight-atmospheric-rivers 

Now, you know you’re not crazy to be reeling from the weather when your state is named in Wikipedia, Science Magazine, and the subject of MIT papers. So, to those who live through hurricanes, typhoons, and tornadoes, I can relate much better to how your storms are described. That’s not to say our storm Monday was on the par with those weather events. It is to say, “I’ve had a taste.” We lost a smaller tree over the wall into the street. I’m still trying to figure out how to deal with it as a wise consumer and responsible citizen of the city. I’ll get it. Honest.

So, while the people who have the equipment work on the tree, I’ve been working on a design idea. That spawned another design idea. I'm calling it Joy for now. That needs to be tatted up to see how it looks. That needs….was that the door AGAIN? "Yes, I know our tree is down. I've been told by the city I need to get a contractor. Yes, I know the city should clear the street. Do you know a reputable contractor who could handle this job? No, well, nice to meet you. Have a good day. I should get back to the clean up tasks." So, I should have a picture soon.

I neglected to get a photo of the Blackwork sample before I sent it to its resting place. I hope to fix that mistake tomorrow. Along with preparing for the next wave of storm to hit this weekend. Why is it the worst seems to happen on a Holiday or weekend when all the sane people aren’t at work?

Crosby weather continues

Life has settled into a routine lately: A day or so of storm, a day or so of cleanup, a day or so of Spring Cleaning (yard and house). What I need right now is a day or so of tatting to finish off these designs! Soon….I hope.

Jane's TIAS 2017 Day 10

I have been tatting 

Oh, almost forgot to explain the title of this post! For many years, Bing Crosby hosted a golf event he called a Clambake. It still brings wonderful fun to our area. The best in Pro golfers come and play spectacular courses. Part of the event is a Pro-Am tournament that raises money for charities. Lately, Bill Murray has been entertaining all while making his way around the holes. Various sports celebrities also join in. The weather usually throws a bit in for the fun. The long-time residents call it Crosby weather. They will say with a wry grin that if it is going to rain and storm in February, it’ll be Clambake time.

This year is no exception. Rain, wind, and general chilliness are forecast. As I write this, the wind is howling, the rain is coming in sheets, and it’s just dank and cold. A good day to rest, tat, and sop up the water seeping into the basement.

Inspiration rolled in

I took a walk the other day on the beach. Rather than struggle learning a new scanner program, correcting mistakes in a new pattern, or playing with swollen sore hands, I found these beauties:

sea glass and piece of shell

Just like the waves rolling in, ideas started crowding in. No, I didn’t turn my back on the ocean! Especially in winter that’s a really dangerous idea! And before I allowed myself to become really absorbed, I strolled up past high tide mark. I wanted to keep my leather shoes nicer. ;)

wings from Mark Myers angel pattern

Back home, I’m having more success with the scanner. Lots to learn though!

A sunrise....finally!

I got distracted yesterday….

By a sunrise….

The weather this summer has been more typical for Monterey area. The cool marine air begets fog just about every day. We’ve had a bit of sun every afternoon. With the fire in Big Sur area though, it’s been overcast more for the morning. Thus, there haven’t been as many sunrises for me to watch from my window. Yesterday was the exception, so I took the time to have an extra cuppa and enjoy the show. I’m glad I did.

The important stuff got done yesterday, just not the next tier down in the to-do list. So, I’ll get started on that in a few moments.

Question first: I’m getting a hankering to do a monster doily. Any favorites you would recommend? 

aha

The smoke is bad today. I’ve a headache from that and just the tension of thinking too much about it all. Sigh! Don’t get me wrong, I am very grateful that I’m safe. I am thankful that the fire crews were able to get the fire 50% contained so far. The weather has been favorable for fighting the Sobranes fire; and favorable for those living in our neighborhood. Just today it’s bad.

Weave-It loom warped and ready to create with!

I had several “aha” moments yesterday. I realized that the Woods organ is likely missing the mechanical part of one of the stops. It’s relatively common and easily replaced. Just a bit disappointing.

I basted the edging on in preparation for sewing. I have a clearer idea how I want the piece to end up. Satisfied sigh!

I played with the Weave-It loom I was gifted. Some yarn from the stash that came with it has provided just the right weight to figure out a good technique. Not bad for a first try.

I also realized why I like some of the Vierne pieces. They are pretty as written on the page, but if you use the registration the composer asks for, they really shine. Kinda like using the size bead/thread combination the designer intends. Use a smashing color combination and you have created beauty. Play the piece on an organ voiced for the music and it’s just beautiful.

“aha!”

Fire update

Not much to share here. No pictures. 

My pieces for the Fair are close to being finished. The Bach Festival is winding up. Today is a Master Class, Chamber Concerts and Main Concert. The Golden State Theater will be celebrating next week with free concerts. I hope they include the organ.

Most of my energy has been concerned with the Fire. Several artists have lost houses and studios. Many families are wondering if they will begin again. This blog Bigsurkate has information on fundraisers, donation drives, and general news of the area.

I pray for the safety of firefighters, victims and those aiding them. I pray for favorable weather. I pray that those who would take advantage of the events for ill gain are thwarted.

it did rain....really!

A smidge more than a trace. That brings our season total here to just under 15". "Normal" total is more like 21" if there could be a normal total. So, the drought continues.

I’ve had a request for a pair of “snowman earrings” for a hard working volunteer. I agreed. I mean, how hard could it be? 

Well, I’ve been enjoying my bead cap earrings for several years now. One thing I’ve learned is that the tatting must be very secure. It also helps to keep things looking nice if the tatting has multiple joins to distribute the stress of handling while putting the earrings in ears and taking them out again. 

A quick browse of the books I have, the online tatting class, the antique pattern library, and several other favorite designer blogs/website gave me only 2 patterns to try. So, here’s the body and head of pattern number 1:

head of snowman

body of snowman

The pattern has the pieces tatted separately and then mounted on felt. That could work well, but the tatting just didn’t look enough like snow for my eye. So, on to pattern number 2.

Oh and that storm that blew in? Oh and that storm that blew in? It did bring enough wind to blow things around and enough moisture to wet things down. The walking group I’ve joined walks through a couple of parks each morning. One has a small campground for hiker/biker guests. Several parties looked a bit chilled and damp that morning. Oh, and no fires permitted since we are in such a bad fire danger season. Fortunately, it just a short walk to civilization and a hot cuppa or meal.

Windy, windy day!

The angel is finally coming together. I’m finishing the write up of the wings today! Really!!

Right after I meet with people who will help us rejuvenate the garden. Right after I find the box with more checks for my checkbook. Right after……

I had planned to TIP today, but a mild summer storm is blowing in. Just windy. We hope for rain, but likely will see just wind.

Oh, what’s TIP? Tatting In Public. Since I need to try out a couple of patterns for a request, I thought I would change up where I try them out and find a chair in the library or someplace. Check back Thursday for a report on where I decide to TIP.