Hooking again

I have been busy hooking again....

I crocheted a little white baby jacket for my soon-to-be Granddaughter! 

I made one for Mikayla (now 4) using the same pattern

and Maddy (now 2) also had her time of wearing it.

Michelle asked if I could make a new one 

for baby number three being that the other one 

was so well worn. 

I'm pleased with how it turned out....

This one was bittersweet for me to make.

There was definitely a lot of love crocheted into it 

but I sadly realised it was the last time 

I would be able to crochet with fine 3ply baby wool. 

My arthritic hands and carpal tunnel syndrome
 made it an extremely difficult and painful task 

to the point of tears at times. 

At first I was unsure if I'd be able to do it at all.

I attempted to use telekinesis numerous times 

on my uncooperative fingers...
willing them to move and hold the wool.

It didn't work so I poo-pooed that idea.

I just persevered as best I could 

but it was a very frustrating, slow, and painful process.

I can't tell you enough how relieved I was to finally finish it!

I was feeling quite depressed by my limitations due to arthritis
but I guess I can still knit with the 3 ply baby wool
because the knitting needles hold the work in place,
unlike with crochet.

Sorry, dear readers, for not posting more frequently.

I want to get there!

I WILL get there!

I did manage to finish the painting for Aaron's room this past week.

Stay tuned for a post on that very soon.

Some sketches...

I have been crocheting like mad on the ripple blanket 

for Granddaughter number 3 

but I have also managed a few sketches here and there.

I've not long completed the Sketchbook Skool course called 'Stretching'. 

One of the teachers, Lapin, enjoys sketching in old ledgers. 

Vehicles and people with big heads and small bodies 

are his speciality and our homework 

naturally involved these things.

I was happy with the way it turned out 

considering I used only pen and sketched 

super-fast while looking at my image in the mirror.
It has a quirkiness that I like.

It was loads of fun to do and no, 

it does not reflect a personality trait.

Another sketchbook spread from May 

Another Sketchbook Skool teacher was Jason Das 

who is big into Urban Sketching. 

I found his klass to be very informative.

I sketched him while watching his klass video.

He was part of a bigger spread

And a couple more from May

Brad and I visit the Mater Hospital each week to practise for choir. 

I did a couple of sketches whilst waiting in the hospital grounds. 

Many years ago, I used to do nursing at Aubigny Place which, 

in those days, was the Mater Private Hospital.

A new Mater Private Hospital was opened in 1993

and Aubigny Place is now a Heritage Centre for the Mater Hospital.

An old tree in the Mater Hospital grounds.

Cody signed up for a campaign! 

We are hoping to help bring an end to Puppy Factories/farms.

It is an incredibly cruel and callous industry. 

Visit Know Your Best Friend to add your fur-kid's voice

to this worthy campaign.

That's Cody in the photo below.

I'm back with some exciting news!

It's been a while 

but I'm hoping to be back on a more regular basis. 

I do miss my blog.

Firstly, I want to say THANKS
 for all the beautiful and supportive comments
on my previous post about my Dad's passing in April.
Your caring words have been a real comfort to me
at a very sad and emotional time.

I miss Dad like crazy but
the reality is that life goes on,
albeit with that missing piece.  
I like to think that I now have a special Angel
watching over me and my family.

*************************

I do have some exciting news!

Granddaughter No.3 is on the way!

She due at the end of September 

and I can hardly wait!!

I have started to crochet a blanket throw 

as I did for Mikayla and Madelyn.
These blankets fit a single bed
so time is of the essence with lots to do.

Michelle also wants me to crochet another white jacket for baby

so I'll be a VERY busy bee for the next few months.
 I'll be sure to show some progress pics here.


 *************************


And even more news....

The Mater 'Sing for Health' Choir 
which Bradley and I belong to
are practising each week for
an upcoming performance in June.

Who knew I would love choir so much?!
It is so much fun
and there is a wonderful sense
of belonging.
LOVE IT!


*************************

I will leave you with a pic
of the adorable Cody
who I swear would be able to sleep
in any position at all.
I love this little guy SO much!

Stay tuned for some sketch posts soon....