Dog parents not only learn from each other, but we understand the struggle - and the pure joy - of having big-pawed, clumsy, wide-eyed, furry children.
Showing posts with label Books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Books. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
My Very Good, Very Bad Dog #ChewyInfluencer
Dog parents always have some of the best stories to share. Whether humorous or heartwarming, they're always engaging and they always lead to new friendships. Instant bonds are formed among complete strangers once we start talking about our dogs.
Dog parents not only learn from each other, but we understand the struggle - and the pure joy - of having big-pawed, clumsy, wide-eyed, furry children.
Dog parents not only learn from each other, but we understand the struggle - and the pure joy - of having big-pawed, clumsy, wide-eyed, furry children.
Thursday, August 25, 2016
Maxi's Secrets (or what you can learn from a dog) + GIVEAWAY
Animals are amazing, and whether we admit it or not, they truly do teach us a lot about ourselves, other humans, and life... if we're just willing to pay attention.
My dogs have taught me more than I could ever imagine.
I have learned what unconditional love truly means, how to be brave, and that I'm stronger than I think.
I have also learned to take time to relax, not dwell on the little things, that it's okay to be silly, and most importantly, to live in the present.
The lessons, or secrets, are just some of the reasons why I couldn't wait to share Maxi's Secrets, a new middle-grade novel, with you.
My dogs have taught me more than I could ever imagine.
I have learned what unconditional love truly means, how to be brave, and that I'm stronger than I think.
I have also learned to take time to relax, not dwell on the little things, that it's okay to be silly, and most importantly, to live in the present.
The lessons, or secrets, are just some of the reasons why I couldn't wait to share Maxi's Secrets, a new middle-grade novel, with you.
Secret #1: You can learn a lot from a dog you love.
Friday, November 20, 2015
My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts #AdoptASeniorPetMonth
Disclosure: New World Library sent a copy of My Old Dog to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
In case you haven't heard, November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month! And, quite frankly, we think Seniors Rock!
Sure, kittens and puppies are adorable, but they may not be for everyone. Seniors are just as loving and loyal as youngsters, plus you'll most likely see what type of personality they have right away. Bonus if you've got your heart set on a certain "type" - couch potato, walking buddy, snuggle bug, travel companion, etc. Plus, older pets don't require constant monitoring and teaching as adolescents do. Typically, Seniors are already house-trained and many know basic commands like sit, stay and come. You'll get all of the love, without the stained carpets and chewed up shoes!
Senior pets tend to be the last to be adopted from local shelters, which puts them at greater risk for euthanasia. They can also become depressed in a shelter, longing for a person or persons to call their very own. Therefore, when you adopt a Senior and give him a loving, forever home, you're quite literally saving a life. Many shelters even offer discounted adoption fees for Seniors, as well as Senior-To-Senior programs which help to place a Senior animal with a Senior Citizen who needs companionship. Be sure to check your local shelters to find out what programs they offer.
Another benefit of Senior pets is their timeless beauty. As she got on in years, I can't even begin to count the number of times I was stopped by strangers who wanted to tell me just how beautiful Lola was. The beauty those old eyes held was stunning, and it showed. As does the beauty in all of the Senior dogs spotlighted in the new book, My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts.
My Old Dog tells the story of 19 Senior shelter pets who were given a second chance in a loving, forever home. Quite simply, it is one of those books that you just cannot put down.
As someone who not only has a huge love of dogs, but a passion for photography as well, I am awe struck by some of the photos captured by Lori Fusaro for My Old Dog.
When asked what her creative process was for these very special photographs, Lori said, "I had an idea of what shot I wanted for each and every dog in this book. And you know what? I didn’t get one of them! Haha! The beauty about creating this book was being in the moment and letting go of every preconceived notion I had. We were up against a lot of challenges. And I had to just let go and let the dogs show me what they were about. Just let the moments come naturally without trying to force it at all. Sometimes it was hard! But I think life is like that. You never know what is going to happen, so it’s important to be able to go with the flow and be willing to see and try new things."
You can learn more about the My Old Dog book, author and photographer on their website, and keep up with the latest via the My Old Dog Facebook page. Follow them on Twitter and Instagram as well.
I could go on and on, but I think you'll already agree that My Old Dog sounds like a pretty awesome book, right? And one that should be on every pet lovers bookshelf. So, grab yourself a copy today (if you click through the Amazon link above, I will earn a very small commission on your purchase). Heck, grab two and give one as a gift this holiday season. While you're anxiously awaiting it's arrival, grab a cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy the story of Remy...
REMY, Age 9
Elderly Nuns Rescue a Dog “No One Is Going to Want”
“It was like a match made in heaven.” — Shelter director West Artope
It’s not every day that three women in their seventies and eighties walk into an animal shelter and tell the executive director they’d like to see a dog nobody wants.
But to Sisters Veronica Mendez, Virginia Johnson, and Alice Goldsmith, nuns from Sisters of Our Lady of Christian Doctrine in Nyack, New York, their request made perfect sense. Why not adopt one of the animals most in need?
That mind-set led them to Remy, a nine-year-old pit bull that had been overlooked by shelter visitors for more than three months. “As soon as I saw the sign that said Nine Years, I said, ‘This is the one. No one is going to want this one,’ ” recalled Sister Veronica, a vivacious seventy-one-year-old with iron-colored hair and a no-nonsense demeanor.
The nuns’ connection with the dog was immediate. Remy was docile. Remy was sweet. And when given a moment to mingle with the sisters at the shelter, Remy leaned her head into Sister Virginia’s chest and sighed. “She just got right up there,” said Sister Virginia, seventy-nine. “She said, ‘This must be my new family.’ ”
For the nuns, a four-legged addition to their small, no-frills convent could not come fast enough. They were grieving the loss of their dog Kate, a gregarious seven-year-old mutt who had been a boundless source of energy and comedy in their lives.
Kate had left them too quickly. On a Friday, she went on a four-mile walk with Sister Veronica. On Saturday, Kate’s groomer spotted some unusual lumps. On Sunday, Kate was lethargic. A few days later, she was ailing so much from lymphoma that the veterinarian put her down. “She was healthy one day and then, all of a sudden, lymphoma?” Sister Veronica said. “I was furious. I was so angry. I cried! Oh, how we loved that creature.”
The sisters rattled around their house crying for one week before they decisively hopped into their car. Their mission: rescue a shelter animal on death row. Minutes later, they explained their goal to West Artope, executive director of the Hi Tor Animal Care Center in Pomona, New York. West liked these women. He learned that Sister Alice was eighty-seven and that Sister Virginia, while statuesque and spunky, often needed a walker to get around. His mind raced and made a hopeful connection: Remy. Calm, gentle, unadoptable Remy.
Bingo.
“It just worked out so well,” West said. “We did a follow-up with them and went to the house, and the dog is so comfortable in that environment you wouldn’t believe it. It was like a match made in heaven.”
The nuns said they weren’t concerned that Remy was a pit bull — they could tell how good-natured she was. And even though they were reeling from Kate’s death, they decided not to dwell on Remy’s age, either. “Our feeling was that she was in danger of being euthanized, and we wanted to give her the best three or four years she has left,” Sister Veronica said. “Here we are, three senior sisters, so we adopted a senior pet!”
Between the three of them, Sisters Veronica, Virginia, and Alice have spent 179 years serving as nuns. Their main mission has been religious education for children and adults up and down the East Coast. “It’s a great life,” said Sister Virginia, a nun for sixty-two years. “I wouldn’t change it.”
They love living in Nyack because of Hook Mountain, the Hudson River, and other natural wonders that surround them. “It’s the perfect place to pray because you stand here and see all of God’s beauty,” said Sister Alice, a serene woman of few words. Sister Veronica agreed; she likened looking at the mountain to “praying without realizing it.”
Veronica loves having a dog to take along on contemplative walks and hikes. Remy also gets to romp in the tree-filled backyard, play with scads of toys, and luxuriate on soft dog beds in multiple rooms of her new, comfortable home. Remy quickly earned a nickname — Thumper — because of the happy way her heavy tail goes thump, thump, thump whenever one of the nuns approaches her or rubs her stiff left hip.
Sister Virginia said Remy’s contentment reminds her of foster kids she helped years ago as a social worker. When those children clicked with their adoptive parents, they showed an unmistakable sense of tranquillity and relief.
“Remy did that with us — she sensed, ‘These are going to be my people. I can tell,’ ” Virginia said. “And we knew this was our dog. We could tell.”
From the book My Old Dog. Text copyright ©2015 by Laura T. Coffey. Photographs copyright ©2015 by Lori Fusaro. Reprinted with permission from New World Library.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Laura T. Coffey is a longtime writer, editor, and producer for TODAY.com, the website of NBC’s TODAY show. An award-winning journalist with more than two decades of experience, Laura has written and edited hundreds of high-profile human-interest stories. She lives in Seattle, Washington.
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Lori Fusaro is staff photographer at Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles and owner of Fusaro Photography, whose clients include BAD RAP, Guide Dogs for the Blind, k9 connection, Angel City Pit Bulls, and other animal rescue organizations. She lives in Los Angeles.
In case you haven't heard, November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month! And, quite frankly, we think Seniors Rock!
Sure, kittens and puppies are adorable, but they may not be for everyone. Seniors are just as loving and loyal as youngsters, plus you'll most likely see what type of personality they have right away. Bonus if you've got your heart set on a certain "type" - couch potato, walking buddy, snuggle bug, travel companion, etc. Plus, older pets don't require constant monitoring and teaching as adolescents do. Typically, Seniors are already house-trained and many know basic commands like sit, stay and come. You'll get all of the love, without the stained carpets and chewed up shoes!
Senior pets tend to be the last to be adopted from local shelters, which puts them at greater risk for euthanasia. They can also become depressed in a shelter, longing for a person or persons to call their very own. Therefore, when you adopt a Senior and give him a loving, forever home, you're quite literally saving a life. Many shelters even offer discounted adoption fees for Seniors, as well as Senior-To-Senior programs which help to place a Senior animal with a Senior Citizen who needs companionship. Be sure to check your local shelters to find out what programs they offer.
Another benefit of Senior pets is their timeless beauty. As she got on in years, I can't even begin to count the number of times I was stopped by strangers who wanted to tell me just how beautiful Lola was. The beauty those old eyes held was stunning, and it showed. As does the beauty in all of the Senior dogs spotlighted in the new book, My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts.
My Old Dog tells the story of 19 Senior shelter pets who were given a second chance in a loving, forever home. Quite simply, it is one of those books that you just cannot put down.
“No Dog Should Die Alone” was the attention-grabbing — and heart-stirring — headline of journalist Laura T. Coffey’s TODAY show website story about photographer Lori Fusaro’s work with senior shelter pets. While generally calm, easy, and already house-trained, these animals often represent the highest-risk population at shelters. With gorgeous, joyful photographs and sweet, funny, true tales of “old dogs learning new tricks,” Coffey and Fusaro show that adopting a senior can be even more rewarding than choosing a younger dog. You’ll meet endearing elders like Marnie, the irresistible shih tzu who has posed for selfies with Tina Fey, James Franco, and Betty White; Remy, a soulful nine-year-old dog adopted by elderly nuns; George Clooney’s cocker spaniel, Einstein; and Bretagne, the last known surviving search dog from Ground Zero. They may be slower moving and a tad less exuberant than puppies, but these pooches prove that adopting a senior brings immeasurable joy, earnest devotion, and unconditional love.When asked why she (along with photographer Lori Fusaro) did a book about senior dogs, and what's so special about them, author Laura Coffey response said it all, "Senior dogs are awesome. They’re calm, mellow, sweet, loveable, and they’re usually already house-trained. All of these traits make them so much easier than puppies. Dogs in this 'golden age' — over the age of about 6 or 7 — often make ideal pets for people with busy lives or for people who simply want snuggly, tranquil companionship. That said, as wonderful as senior animals are, they often represent the highest-risk population at shelters across the United States, where nearly 4 million dogs and cats are put down each year. We wanted to do this book to help change people’s perceptions of these fantastic older animals."
As someone who not only has a huge love of dogs, but a passion for photography as well, I am awe struck by some of the photos captured by Lori Fusaro for My Old Dog.
When asked what her creative process was for these very special photographs, Lori said, "I had an idea of what shot I wanted for each and every dog in this book. And you know what? I didn’t get one of them! Haha! The beauty about creating this book was being in the moment and letting go of every preconceived notion I had. We were up against a lot of challenges. And I had to just let go and let the dogs show me what they were about. Just let the moments come naturally without trying to force it at all. Sometimes it was hard! But I think life is like that. You never know what is going to happen, so it’s important to be able to go with the flow and be willing to see and try new things."
You can learn more about the My Old Dog book, author and photographer on their website, and keep up with the latest via the My Old Dog Facebook page. Follow them on Twitter and Instagram as well.
I could go on and on, but I think you'll already agree that My Old Dog sounds like a pretty awesome book, right? And one that should be on every pet lovers bookshelf. So, grab yourself a copy today (if you click through the Amazon link above, I will earn a very small commission on your purchase). Heck, grab two and give one as a gift this holiday season. While you're anxiously awaiting it's arrival, grab a cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy the story of Remy...
REMY, Age 9
Elderly Nuns Rescue a Dog “No One Is Going to Want”
“It was like a match made in heaven.” — Shelter director West Artope
It’s not every day that three women in their seventies and eighties walk into an animal shelter and tell the executive director they’d like to see a dog nobody wants.
But to Sisters Veronica Mendez, Virginia Johnson, and Alice Goldsmith, nuns from Sisters of Our Lady of Christian Doctrine in Nyack, New York, their request made perfect sense. Why not adopt one of the animals most in need?
That mind-set led them to Remy, a nine-year-old pit bull that had been overlooked by shelter visitors for more than three months. “As soon as I saw the sign that said Nine Years, I said, ‘This is the one. No one is going to want this one,’ ” recalled Sister Veronica, a vivacious seventy-one-year-old with iron-colored hair and a no-nonsense demeanor.
The nuns’ connection with the dog was immediate. Remy was docile. Remy was sweet. And when given a moment to mingle with the sisters at the shelter, Remy leaned her head into Sister Virginia’s chest and sighed. “She just got right up there,” said Sister Virginia, seventy-nine. “She said, ‘This must be my new family.’ ”
For the nuns, a four-legged addition to their small, no-frills convent could not come fast enough. They were grieving the loss of their dog Kate, a gregarious seven-year-old mutt who had been a boundless source of energy and comedy in their lives.
Kate had left them too quickly. On a Friday, she went on a four-mile walk with Sister Veronica. On Saturday, Kate’s groomer spotted some unusual lumps. On Sunday, Kate was lethargic. A few days later, she was ailing so much from lymphoma that the veterinarian put her down. “She was healthy one day and then, all of a sudden, lymphoma?” Sister Veronica said. “I was furious. I was so angry. I cried! Oh, how we loved that creature.”
The sisters rattled around their house crying for one week before they decisively hopped into their car. Their mission: rescue a shelter animal on death row. Minutes later, they explained their goal to West Artope, executive director of the Hi Tor Animal Care Center in Pomona, New York. West liked these women. He learned that Sister Alice was eighty-seven and that Sister Virginia, while statuesque and spunky, often needed a walker to get around. His mind raced and made a hopeful connection: Remy. Calm, gentle, unadoptable Remy.
Bingo.
“It just worked out so well,” West said. “We did a follow-up with them and went to the house, and the dog is so comfortable in that environment you wouldn’t believe it. It was like a match made in heaven.”
The nuns said they weren’t concerned that Remy was a pit bull — they could tell how good-natured she was. And even though they were reeling from Kate’s death, they decided not to dwell on Remy’s age, either. “Our feeling was that she was in danger of being euthanized, and we wanted to give her the best three or four years she has left,” Sister Veronica said. “Here we are, three senior sisters, so we adopted a senior pet!”
Between the three of them, Sisters Veronica, Virginia, and Alice have spent 179 years serving as nuns. Their main mission has been religious education for children and adults up and down the East Coast. “It’s a great life,” said Sister Virginia, a nun for sixty-two years. “I wouldn’t change it.”
They love living in Nyack because of Hook Mountain, the Hudson River, and other natural wonders that surround them. “It’s the perfect place to pray because you stand here and see all of God’s beauty,” said Sister Alice, a serene woman of few words. Sister Veronica agreed; she likened looking at the mountain to “praying without realizing it.”
Veronica loves having a dog to take along on contemplative walks and hikes. Remy also gets to romp in the tree-filled backyard, play with scads of toys, and luxuriate on soft dog beds in multiple rooms of her new, comfortable home. Remy quickly earned a nickname — Thumper — because of the happy way her heavy tail goes thump, thump, thump whenever one of the nuns approaches her or rubs her stiff left hip.
Sister Virginia said Remy’s contentment reminds her of foster kids she helped years ago as a social worker. When those children clicked with their adoptive parents, they showed an unmistakable sense of tranquillity and relief.
“Remy did that with us — she sensed, ‘These are going to be my people. I can tell,’ ” Virginia said. “And we knew this was our dog. We could tell.”
From the book My Old Dog. Text copyright ©2015 by Laura T. Coffey. Photographs copyright ©2015 by Lori Fusaro. Reprinted with permission from New World Library.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Laura T. Coffey is a longtime writer, editor, and producer for TODAY.com, the website of NBC’s TODAY show. An award-winning journalist with more than two decades of experience, Laura has written and edited hundreds of high-profile human-interest stories. She lives in Seattle, Washington.
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Lori Fusaro is staff photographer at Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles and owner of Fusaro Photography, whose clients include BAD RAP, Guide Dogs for the Blind, k9 connection, Angel City Pit Bulls, and other animal rescue organizations. She lives in Los Angeles.
Friday, September 11, 2015
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: One-Skein Wonders for Babies
Disclosure: Storey Publishing LLC sent a copy of One-Skein Wonders for Babies to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
There is nothing I appreciate more as a knitter than one-skein projects, especially for those expensive, hand-dyed, and unique skeins we all have in our stash.
There is nothing more adorable - and fun to knit - than baby items.
One-skein + Baby = the latest addition to what I often refer to as the best knitting book series ever, One-Skein Wonders for Babies: 101 Knitting Projects for Infants & Toddlers.
I've been a huge fan of the One-Skein Wonders books since the original title was released nearly nine years ago. I treasure that well-used book. Not only is it signed by editor Judith Durant (whom I had the pleasure of meeting at the TKGA Knit & Crochet show in 2007), but it is one of those books I refer back to again and again. While I find myself reaching for many of the One-Skein Wonders books when looking for just the right gift pattern, it's the original and the "Designer" ones I tend to grab most often. Considering my over-abundance of sock yarn, I should probably start reaching for the "Sock Yarn" edition as well.
Two years have passed since the last in the series, Lace One-Skein Wonders, was released and if you ask me, there's no time like the present to jump on board the baby knit wagon!
One-Skein Wonders for Babies, the seventh installment to the best-selling series, features a collection of 101 knitting patterns for babies and toddlers, as well as a couple of ideas for Moms. The format is one that we've all come to know and love, with beautiful photos throughout.
One-Skein Wonders for Babies is organized into 10 chapters full of adorable patterns, all knit with just one skein of yarn. I've already stuck post-it tags on several patterns throughout the book and will note a few that have caught my eye below:
Just as I refer back to the original One-Skein book again and again, I can already tell I will be doing the same with One-Skein Wonders for Babies. I seem to have at least one baby knit on my needles at all times these days (if you know me, you know I am not a monogamous knitter and always have several projects going at once) - whether for friends or relatives, or just because I need an instant gratification project. I find baby knits can also be a great way to learn new techniques, as you don't have to invest too much time or money into a "smaller" size project.
Plus, one of the things I love most about the entire One-Skein Wonders series is the simple fact that when inspiration strikes, I can go stash diving from the comfort of my own home and get started right away. (disclaimer: NO, that doesn't mean I won't still go to the yarn shop anyway)
If I had to make one teensy-tiny complaint about One-Skein Wonders for Babies, it's the fact that many of the patterns do not include additional sizes. I don't know about you, but when I knit for baby I almost always knit at least a 6 month size or larger. After all, babies grow faster than I can knit and no one wants to spend $30 on a single skein of yarn to knit something that can only be worn once. While I'm sure some patterns have been purposely written this way to stick within the one-skein guidelines (although I would have much preferred little side notes saying if you wanted to make the larger size, you would need extra yarn), I'm wondering if some are simply due to the designer not spending enough time on creating the pattern for extended sizes (there's no reason why any hat pattern could not be written for two or three sizes, even with using just one skein of yarn). le sigh... perhaps I'll just have to knit a few of those teensy-tiny little sizes.
All in all, One-Skein Wonders for Babies is a must for your knitting book collection!
I don't normally share old photos with my reviews, but since I mentioned getting that original edition signed...
About the Editor: Judith Durant is the editor of the best-selling One-Skein Wonders series (which currently includes 7 volumes), the author of Increase, Decrease and Knit One, Bead Too; and the co-author of Knitting Know-How. Durant has been knitting for more than 50 years and has been writing and editing for more than 30 years. She lives in Lowell, Massachusetts.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
One-Skein Wonders for Babies
101 Knitting Projects for Infants & Toddlers
Edited by Judith Durant
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (September 8, 2015)
There is nothing I appreciate more as a knitter than one-skein projects, especially for those expensive, hand-dyed, and unique skeins we all have in our stash.
There is nothing more adorable - and fun to knit - than baby items.
One-skein + Baby = the latest addition to what I often refer to as the best knitting book series ever, One-Skein Wonders for Babies: 101 Knitting Projects for Infants & Toddlers.
I've been a huge fan of the One-Skein Wonders books since the original title was released nearly nine years ago. I treasure that well-used book. Not only is it signed by editor Judith Durant (whom I had the pleasure of meeting at the TKGA Knit & Crochet show in 2007), but it is one of those books I refer back to again and again. While I find myself reaching for many of the One-Skein Wonders books when looking for just the right gift pattern, it's the original and the "Designer" ones I tend to grab most often. Considering my over-abundance of sock yarn, I should probably start reaching for the "Sock Yarn" edition as well.
Two years have passed since the last in the series, Lace One-Skein Wonders, was released and if you ask me, there's no time like the present to jump on board the baby knit wagon!
One-Skein Wonders for Babies, the seventh installment to the best-selling series, features a collection of 101 knitting patterns for babies and toddlers, as well as a couple of ideas for Moms. The format is one that we've all come to know and love, with beautiful photos throughout.
One-Skein Wonders for Babies is organized into 10 chapters full of adorable patterns, all knit with just one skein of yarn. I've already stuck post-it tags on several patterns throughout the book and will note a few that have caught my eye below:
- Little Ensembles
- Claredon Baby Vest and Hat - sometimes it can be hard to find cute boy sets, and this one takes the cake
- Little Tops
- Lacy Baby Top - a cute little number worked from the top down and perfect for a little lady
- No-Sew Taiyo Baby Jacket - they had me at "no sew," but really got me at "chunky yarn"
- Little Bottoms
- Baby Green Jeans - inspired by Captain Kangaroo, this pattern comes from the Editor herself, Ms. Judith Durant
- Little Dresses
- This section features just three patterns, a lacy little number, a no-fess tunic and a christening gown
- Little Hats
- I jumped to this section first, as I'm currently looking for the "right" baby hat pattern for a new little man.
- Happy Hat - this unique design sort of looks like a collection of smiles all over
- Hootenanny Hat of Owls - as the name implies, this one features a row of owls created by simple cables and tiny buttons
- Little Socks & Bootees
- Montana Moccasins - these toddler size slippers are just too cute for words
- Little Accessories
- Snow Baby Leg Warmers - sure, I happen to know the author of this pattern (Ms. Gina House from Sleepy Eyes Knits), but I'd tell you about these cozy little duds regardless - after all, what chunky little legs wouldn't look extra cute in leg warmers this fall?
- Tutti Fruitti Bib - I used to knit a lot of baby bibs way back when... and am now thinking to myself, "why didn't I think to knit it a little longer and add pockets?" - genius!
- Little Blankets
- Tuck Me In - features a cozy looking blanket stitch pattern that reminds me of a honeycomb
- Little Toys
- Sunshine - what baby doesn't deserve his or her own ray of sunshine - plus, as baby grows, the "toy" becomes a lovely pillow
- Friendly Lizard - sure the bunnies, penguins, and other typical creatures are included, but this cute little lizard could be the start of a whole new appreciation for wildlife
- Little Miscellany
- Bath Toy Hammock - use it in the bath or in the baby's room (or both) - it's a great catch-all for little toys
Just as I refer back to the original One-Skein book again and again, I can already tell I will be doing the same with One-Skein Wonders for Babies. I seem to have at least one baby knit on my needles at all times these days (if you know me, you know I am not a monogamous knitter and always have several projects going at once) - whether for friends or relatives, or just because I need an instant gratification project. I find baby knits can also be a great way to learn new techniques, as you don't have to invest too much time or money into a "smaller" size project.
Plus, one of the things I love most about the entire One-Skein Wonders series is the simple fact that when inspiration strikes, I can go stash diving from the comfort of my own home and get started right away. (disclaimer: NO, that doesn't mean I won't still go to the yarn shop anyway)
If I had to make one teensy-tiny complaint about One-Skein Wonders for Babies, it's the fact that many of the patterns do not include additional sizes. I don't know about you, but when I knit for baby I almost always knit at least a 6 month size or larger. After all, babies grow faster than I can knit and no one wants to spend $30 on a single skein of yarn to knit something that can only be worn once. While I'm sure some patterns have been purposely written this way to stick within the one-skein guidelines (although I would have much preferred little side notes saying if you wanted to make the larger size, you would need extra yarn), I'm wondering if some are simply due to the designer not spending enough time on creating the pattern for extended sizes (there's no reason why any hat pattern could not be written for two or three sizes, even with using just one skein of yarn). le sigh... perhaps I'll just have to knit a few of those teensy-tiny little sizes.
All in all, One-Skein Wonders for Babies is a must for your knitting book collection!
I don't normally share old photos with my reviews, but since I mentioned getting that original edition signed...
 |
| Judith Durant & I, July 2007 |
About the Editor: Judith Durant is the editor of the best-selling One-Skein Wonders series (which currently includes 7 volumes), the author of Increase, Decrease and Knit One, Bead Too; and the co-author of Knitting Know-How. Durant has been knitting for more than 50 years and has been writing and editing for more than 30 years. She lives in Lowell, Massachusetts.
GIVEAWAY! All knitters know that the only thing better than a new knitting book is a new, free knitting book... and thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, one lucky reader will win a copy of One-Skein Wonders for Babies!
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. ***Note the first entry method is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out what the question is before posting your comment***
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. ***Note the first entry method is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out what the question is before posting your comment***
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Monday, September 07, 2015
GIVEAWAY WINNER! Knitting Fabric Rugs
Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Knitting Fabric Rugs!
The lucky winner has been chosen thru Rafflecopter. If it wasn't you, check out the link to it on Amazon above where it's currently available for just $12.88!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congratulations to Chan! I wonder which of us will get to casting on a rug first...
Stay tuned... we have several reviews in progress (many with giveaways as well!), including the new One Skein Wonders book, Dogsters frozen dog treats, Cool Pet Pad, Three Dog Bakery fall offerings, Fresh Wave products, Riley's Organics dog treats, Lupine collars & leashes, and more!
The lucky winner has been chosen thru Rafflecopter. If it wasn't you, check out the link to it on Amazon above where it's currently available for just $12.88!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congratulations to Chan! I wonder which of us will get to casting on a rug first...
Stay tuned... we have several reviews in progress (many with giveaways as well!), including the new One Skein Wonders book, Dogsters frozen dog treats, Cool Pet Pad, Three Dog Bakery fall offerings, Fresh Wave products, Riley's Organics dog treats, Lupine collars & leashes, and more!
Friday, August 28, 2015
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Knitting Fabric Rugs
Disclosure: Storey Publishing LLC sent a copy of Knitting Fabric Rugs to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Stuck in a hat/shawl/sock/cowl rut? Looking to take your knitting skills in a bit of a new direction? It's easy - just arm yourself with a copy of Knitting Fabric Rugs, some colorful strips of recycled fabric, and a pair of size 10 needles!
Trends come and go, but colorful accent rugs seem to be a new staple of contemporary design. Unfortunately, some of these fun, little pieces can sell for hundreds of dollars - not exactly fitting into everyone's budget. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's thought "why would I spend $300 on that when I could make it myself?"
So, why not make it yourself? You probably have all of the materials you need hanging in your closet... collecting dust. It's time to upcycle! Don't toss your old clothing into the donation pile, reuse and repurpose it into colorful, fun, knitted rugs!
In Knitting Fabric Rugs, Karne Tiede teaches an innovative technique for creating fabulous designs. Karen was inspired by handwoven rag rugs and bags. Combining her love of these DIY projects with her background in knitting, Karen created her own method of upcycling fabrics into beautiful rugs.
Knitting Fabric Rugs starts off with a lovely introduction entitled "Knitted Rugs - The Backstory" and is followed by eight knitty-gritty chapters all about materials, the process and techniques:
Instructions for 28 different rugs are included, many of which draw inspiration from traditional quilt patterns. Karen also discusses her own inventive approach to color blending, spiral patterns and freeform design.
Perhaps you're a beginner knitter wondering how on earth you could create these beautiful rugs? No worries... you don't need to be a master knitter to create masterpieces! The rugs require a knowledge of just the simple knit stitch and are worked in modular sections, which are later sewn together. This helps to make the projects portable (which is something all knitters love) and easy to work on.
Knitting Fabric Rugs has inspired me to take a second look at my Goodwill pile and rethink what I can do with some favorite, but well-worn, t-shirts. While I haven't started a knitted rug project just yet, I look forward to working on one... most likely over the winter, after the holiday knitting rush slows down.
About the Author: Karen Tiede markets her rug designs on her website, Rugs from Rags. In addition to doing her own design work and teaching, she is also a weaver and woodcarver. Karen lives in Moncure, North Carolina.
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to add a copy of Knitting Fabric Rugs to your book shelf... for free?!?! Thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader.
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. ***Note the first entry method is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out what the question is before posting your comment***
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Knitting Fabric Rugs
28 Colorful Designs for Crafters of Every Level
by Karen Tiede
Paperback: 184 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (July 28, 2015)
Stuck in a hat/shawl/sock/cowl rut? Looking to take your knitting skills in a bit of a new direction? It's easy - just arm yourself with a copy of Knitting Fabric Rugs, some colorful strips of recycled fabric, and a pair of size 10 needles!
Trends come and go, but colorful accent rugs seem to be a new staple of contemporary design. Unfortunately, some of these fun, little pieces can sell for hundreds of dollars - not exactly fitting into everyone's budget. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's thought "why would I spend $300 on that when I could make it myself?"
So, why not make it yourself? You probably have all of the materials you need hanging in your closet... collecting dust. It's time to upcycle! Don't toss your old clothing into the donation pile, reuse and repurpose it into colorful, fun, knitted rugs!
In Knitting Fabric Rugs, Karne Tiede teaches an innovative technique for creating fabulous designs. Karen was inspired by handwoven rag rugs and bags. Combining her love of these DIY projects with her background in knitting, Karen created her own method of upcycling fabrics into beautiful rugs.
Knitting Fabric Rugs starts off with a lovely introduction entitled "Knitted Rugs - The Backstory" and is followed by eight knitty-gritty chapters all about materials, the process and techniques:
- Materials: The Heart of a Fabric Rug
- Color! Rules of Thumb
- Process: Rug-Making Nuts and Bolts
- Earn Your Stripes
- Tantalizing Tessellations
- Log Cabin Design and Beyond
- Spirited Spirals
- Inspiration: Going Free-Form
Instructions for 28 different rugs are included, many of which draw inspiration from traditional quilt patterns. Karen also discusses her own inventive approach to color blending, spiral patterns and freeform design.
Perhaps you're a beginner knitter wondering how on earth you could create these beautiful rugs? No worries... you don't need to be a master knitter to create masterpieces! The rugs require a knowledge of just the simple knit stitch and are worked in modular sections, which are later sewn together. This helps to make the projects portable (which is something all knitters love) and easy to work on.
Knitting Fabric Rugs has inspired me to take a second look at my Goodwill pile and rethink what I can do with some favorite, but well-worn, t-shirts. While I haven't started a knitted rug project just yet, I look forward to working on one... most likely over the winter, after the holiday knitting rush slows down.
About the Author: Karen Tiede markets her rug designs on her website, Rugs from Rags. In addition to doing her own design work and teaching, she is also a weaver and woodcarver. Karen lives in Moncure, North Carolina.
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to add a copy of Knitting Fabric Rugs to your book shelf... for free?!?! Thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader.
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. ***Note the first entry method is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out what the question is before posting your comment***
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Friday, August 21, 2015
GIVEAWAY WINNER! The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques
Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques!
The lucky winner has been chosen thru Rafflecopter... but if it wasn't you, don't worry. You can get the book on Amazon currently for just $15.45 (see link above)!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congrats to Donna! I can't wait to see what you create after getting this fun book.
Stay tuned to the blog next week for another great review and giveaway, thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing. The Lapdogs are also working on quite a few dog treat and product reviews as well. It sure is busy around here!
The lucky winner has been chosen thru Rafflecopter... but if it wasn't you, don't worry. You can get the book on Amazon currently for just $15.45 (see link above)!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congrats to Donna! I can't wait to see what you create after getting this fun book.
Stay tuned to the blog next week for another great review and giveaway, thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing. The Lapdogs are also working on quite a few dog treat and product reviews as well. It sure is busy around here!
Thursday, August 13, 2015
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques
Disclosure: Storey Publishing LLC sent a copy of The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Knitting with two or more colors is exciting, adds interest and depth to your project, and quite frankly, can make anyone look like a superstar to their non-knitting friends. But, it can be a challenge as well (sometimes with lots of 4-letter words involved). Whether it's choosing colors that play nicely together (we all know we've second guessed whether our color palette was a good choice multiple times, right?), keeping multiple balls of yarn from becoming a tangled mess (oh the webs we can weave, without every trying), or just knowing how to use colors effectively, color knitting can leave even veteran knitters stumped.
The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques has been the critically acclaimed go-to reference for knitters looking to expand on or polish up their color knitting techniques since it was first published in 2008... and now, it's available in paperback! Whether you're interested in tackling intarsia, playing with multicolor yarns, shadow knitting, or creating textured stripes, this is the must-have book for you.
Second key point... The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is simply gorgeous. The full-color photos are stunning and will leave you wanting to escape to your nearest yarn store to start laying colors out immediately! Dozens of pattern stitches are included, along with easy to follow step-by-step techniques.
The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is broken out into nine chapters:
Each chapter will leave you oohhing and ahhing, wanting to get uber creative with your knits. You will discover that color combinations are, literally, endless. And, if you're like me, The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques will force you to take a leap right out of your ho-hum color comfort zone.
What I really love about The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is that it's not just a technique or reference book. There are several pattern stitches, as well as some full project patterns to get your creative, colorful juices flowing. I am in love with the "Windowpane Bag" pattern that you'll find on page 90, and the "Helix Mittens" look like a great gift knit to help my friends through chilly New England winters.
About the Author: Margaret Radcliffe is the author of The Knowledgeable Knitter, Circular Knitting Workshop, The Knitting Answer Book, and The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques. She lives in Virginia and teaches knitting workshops across North America, promoting creativity and independence in all knitters. Her own designs are published in the Maggie’s Rags line of knitting patterns. Learn more on her website.
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to add a copy of The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques to your book shelf... for free?!?! Thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader.
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. ***Note the first entry method is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out what the question is before posting your comment***
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques
Multicolor Yarns, Plain and Textured Stripes, Entrelac and Double Knitting, Stranding and Intarsia, Mosaic and Shadow Knitting, 150 Color Patterns
by Margaret Radcliffe
Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (July 28, 2015)
Knitting with two or more colors is exciting, adds interest and depth to your project, and quite frankly, can make anyone look like a superstar to their non-knitting friends. But, it can be a challenge as well (sometimes with lots of 4-letter words involved). Whether it's choosing colors that play nicely together (we all know we've second guessed whether our color palette was a good choice multiple times, right?), keeping multiple balls of yarn from becoming a tangled mess (oh the webs we can weave, without every trying), or just knowing how to use colors effectively, color knitting can leave even veteran knitters stumped.
The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques has been the critically acclaimed go-to reference for knitters looking to expand on or polish up their color knitting techniques since it was first published in 2008... and now, it's available in paperback! Whether you're interested in tackling intarsia, playing with multicolor yarns, shadow knitting, or creating textured stripes, this is the must-have book for you.
"Knitting teacher and author Margaret Radcliffe presents a world of color techniques in a single comprehensive reference that you’ll consult every time two or more yarn colors are in play. Stitchers of every ability level will love the color-combining methods and professional secrets revealed in The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques." - Storey PublishingFirst of all, let's get one thing straight... The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is not exactly your "toss it in the knitting bag and go" book. While it is now in a more affordable paperback version, it is still 320 pages and measures 10.8" x 8.5" x .7". So, unless you like lugging around chunky books, this reference baby is best used at home.
Second key point... The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is simply gorgeous. The full-color photos are stunning and will leave you wanting to escape to your nearest yarn store to start laying colors out immediately! Dozens of pattern stitches are included, along with easy to follow step-by-step techniques.
The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is broken out into nine chapters:
- Color Basics
- Stripes
- Pattern Stitches
- Multicolor Yarns
- Stranded Knitting
- Intarsia
- Other Techniques
- Finishing Touches
- Design Workshop
Each chapter will leave you oohhing and ahhing, wanting to get uber creative with your knits. You will discover that color combinations are, literally, endless. And, if you're like me, The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques will force you to take a leap right out of your ho-hum color comfort zone.
What I really love about The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques is that it's not just a technique or reference book. There are several pattern stitches, as well as some full project patterns to get your creative, colorful juices flowing. I am in love with the "Windowpane Bag" pattern that you'll find on page 90, and the "Helix Mittens" look like a great gift knit to help my friends through chilly New England winters.
About the Author: Margaret Radcliffe is the author of The Knowledgeable Knitter, Circular Knitting Workshop, The Knitting Answer Book, and The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques. She lives in Virginia and teaches knitting workshops across North America, promoting creativity and independence in all knitters. Her own designs are published in the Maggie’s Rags line of knitting patterns. Learn more on her website.
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to add a copy of The Essential Guide to Color Knitting Techniques to your book shelf... for free?!?! Thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader.
To enter, use the Rafflecopter widget below. ***Note the first entry method is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out what the question is before posting your comment***
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Monday, July 06, 2015
GIVEAWAY WINNER! Increase, Decrease
Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Increase, Decrease!
The lucky winner has been chosen thru Rafflecopter, but if that wasn't you...don't worry. Click the Amazon link above and order a copy today!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congrats Chan... I know you will put the book to good use.
Stay tuned for more reviews and giveaways coming soon!
The lucky winner has been chosen thru Rafflecopter, but if that wasn't you...don't worry. Click the Amazon link above and order a copy today!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congrats Chan... I know you will put the book to good use.
Stay tuned for more reviews and giveaways coming soon!
Friday, June 26, 2015
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Increase, Decrease
Disclosure: Storey Publishing LLC sent a copy of Increase, Decrease to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Homemade vs Handmade - many crafters debate this on a daily basis. It seems the term homemade gets a bad rap in the crafting community. Some suggest that there is little value in homemade things, but great value in handmade. Others talk about how they strive to ensure their creations look handmade, and not homemade.
Regardless of whether or not you see anything substandard with the term homemade, we all know that the key to knitting beautiful pieces is in the details. Just as choosing one cast on or bind off over another can greatly change the look of your finished piece, so can the right increase or decrease technique.
Cast On, Bind Off, published three years ago, remains one of my go-to reference books to this day. The guide is indispensable, and one of the reasons I was so excited to learn of Storey Publishing's follow up, Increase, Decrease.
While nearly every knitting pattern calls for increases and decreases, many of them don't specify which of the many possible techniques to use. "Increase 1" -- sure, but is that a M1? Should I work into the front and back of the same stitch? While either option will render the same technical results - having one more stitch on your needles - they will not render the same visual appeal. Different increases and decreases can greatly alter the look of your finished product. After all, many were designed to improve the look of a finished pieces, so long as they are properly used with appropriate stitch patterns and shaping issues.
Whether you're just looking for the easiest, most effective way to increase or decrease, or if you want it to be a noticeable (or, in many cases, unnoticeable) design element, Increase, Decrease is where you'll find the answer!
Judith Durant has assembled 99 methods for increasing and decreasing knitting stitches. Yes, that's right, 99 different methods! Who knew there were that many? I sure didn't, and I consider myself an experienced knitter.
Increase, Decrease is divided into three chapters, which are further divided into sections, making it extremely easy to find what you need:
Each technique includes step-by-step instructions with photos, as well as a swatch photo showing how the featured stitch looks, and best use suggestions.
Increase, Decrease is a spiral-bound 6" x 7" book, making it a handy reference guide that can be tossed in your knitting bag and taken anywhere you go. I really appreciate the spiral binding, which allows the open book to lie flat... which means I don't have to fuss to keep a book open while I'm trying to follow along with instructions! After all, we do need two hands to knit! As an added "it's-going-to-be-thrown-in-a-lot-of-knitting-bags" think-ahead, the corners are rounded, helping to prevent sharp edges and tangles.
Grab yourself a copy of Increase, Decrease today (it's just twelve bucks through the Amazon link at the top of this post)... or better yet, grab two copies and gift one to a dear knitting friend!
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to add a copy of Increase Decrease to your knitting bag... for free?!?! Thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader. Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter (the first entry is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out the question before posting your comment).
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Increase, Decrease: 99 Step-by-Step Methods
Find the Perfect Technique for Shaping Every Knitting Project
by Judith Durant
Spiral-Bound: 256 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (May 19, 2015)
Homemade vs Handmade - many crafters debate this on a daily basis. It seems the term homemade gets a bad rap in the crafting community. Some suggest that there is little value in homemade things, but great value in handmade. Others talk about how they strive to ensure their creations look handmade, and not homemade.
Regardless of whether or not you see anything substandard with the term homemade, we all know that the key to knitting beautiful pieces is in the details. Just as choosing one cast on or bind off over another can greatly change the look of your finished piece, so can the right increase or decrease technique.
Cast On, Bind Off, published three years ago, remains one of my go-to reference books to this day. The guide is indispensable, and one of the reasons I was so excited to learn of Storey Publishing's follow up, Increase, Decrease.
While nearly every knitting pattern calls for increases and decreases, many of them don't specify which of the many possible techniques to use. "Increase 1" -- sure, but is that a M1? Should I work into the front and back of the same stitch? While either option will render the same technical results - having one more stitch on your needles - they will not render the same visual appeal. Different increases and decreases can greatly alter the look of your finished product. After all, many were designed to improve the look of a finished pieces, so long as they are properly used with appropriate stitch patterns and shaping issues.
Whether you're just looking for the easiest, most effective way to increase or decrease, or if you want it to be a noticeable (or, in many cases, unnoticeable) design element, Increase, Decrease is where you'll find the answer!
Judith Durant has assembled 99 methods for increasing and decreasing knitting stitches. Yes, that's right, 99 different methods! Who knew there were that many? I sure didn't, and I consider myself an experienced knitter.
Increase, Decrease is divided into three chapters, which are further divided into sections, making it extremely easy to find what you need:
- Increase
- Neutral Increases
- Right and Left Leaning Increases
- Multiple Stitch Increases
- Centered Double Increases
- Decrease
- Single Decreases
- Double Decreases
- Multiple Stitch Decreases
- Combinations & Special Circumstances
- Increase and Decrease for Decorative Effect
- Special Circumstances
Each technique includes step-by-step instructions with photos, as well as a swatch photo showing how the featured stitch looks, and best use suggestions.
Increase, Decrease is a spiral-bound 6" x 7" book, making it a handy reference guide that can be tossed in your knitting bag and taken anywhere you go. I really appreciate the spiral binding, which allows the open book to lie flat... which means I don't have to fuss to keep a book open while I'm trying to follow along with instructions! After all, we do need two hands to knit! As an added "it's-going-to-be-thrown-in-a-lot-of-knitting-bags" think-ahead, the corners are rounded, helping to prevent sharp edges and tangles.
Grab yourself a copy of Increase, Decrease today (it's just twelve bucks through the Amazon link at the top of this post)... or better yet, grab two copies and gift one to a dear knitting friend!
About the Author: Judith Durant is the editor of the best-selling One-Skein Wonders series, which currently includes six volumes. She is also the author of Knit One, Bead Too and co-author with Dorothy T. Ratigan of Knitting Know-How. Durant has been knitting for more than 50 years and has been writing and editing for 30 years. She currently lives in Lowell, Massachusetts. You can learn more about Judith on her website.
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to add a copy of Increase Decrease to your knitting bag... for free?!?! Thanks to the folks over at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader. Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter (the first entry is to answer a question in the comments on this post -- please be sure to click on the Rafflecopter to find out the question before posting your comment).
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Friday, May 08, 2015
A Winner, A Giveaway & A Sale - Oh My!
TGIF! Today's post is dedicated to a little housekeeping, but before we get to those details... we have been doing a little happy dance in the Lapdog household, as both of Tut's lumps came back benign! The one I was worried about the most, on his ankle, was a cyst and the other one was a lipoma, Yippeee!
A Winner... Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness. The lucky winner is Kenyetta!
If you didn't win and are looking for some great time-saving tips to get your clutter under control, click the Amazon link above and order a copy today!
A Giveaway... Calling all of my pet loving readers out there! In keeping with the organizing trend, we have an amazing giveaway going on just for you. Check out our review of Woodlore Cedar Pet Products and enter today! Two lucky winners will each receive a Pet Toy Box and a Pet Accessory Mate. These are beautiful items that would be great additions to your home.
#ad A Sale... Who doesn't love a sale, right? And just in time for last minute Mother's Day gifts! Celebrate Mom this weekend and shop Craftsy’s Make It Great event to get up to $20 off ALL online classes. Craftsy classes make the perfect Mother's Day gift, and they also make the perfect gift for yourself. Hurry, offer ends 5/11, so shop now!
A Winner... Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness. The lucky winner is Kenyetta!
If you didn't win and are looking for some great time-saving tips to get your clutter under control, click the Amazon link above and order a copy today!
A Giveaway... Calling all of my pet loving readers out there! In keeping with the organizing trend, we have an amazing giveaway going on just for you. Check out our review of Woodlore Cedar Pet Products and enter today! Two lucky winners will each receive a Pet Toy Box and a Pet Accessory Mate. These are beautiful items that would be great additions to your home.
#ad A Sale... Who doesn't love a sale, right? And just in time for last minute Mother's Day gifts! Celebrate Mom this weekend and shop Craftsy’s Make It Great event to get up to $20 off ALL online classes. Craftsy classes make the perfect Mother's Day gift, and they also make the perfect gift for yourself. Hurry, offer ends 5/11, so shop now!
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness
Disclosure: Storey Publishing LLC sent a copy of Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Let's face it, everyone is busy these days, running from here to there and multitasking along the way. There never seems to be enough hours in the day, and when we do have some "free time," who wants towaste spend it cleaning? I certainly don't. Of course, that means the clutter adds up quickly, eventually leading to chaos and stress.
Donna Smallin, a nationally recognized organizing expert (file that one under "cool jobs!") is here to help us all with her book, Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness: One-Minute Tips for Decluttering and Refreshing Your Home and Your Life. This handy little book (literally, it's a mere 4" x 6") is jam packed with practical tips and encouraging words to help us common folk break thru the overwhelming chore barrier that discourages us all.
Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness teaches how to take those monstrous size chores and break them down into smaller, more manageable chunks. Instead ofwasting spending an entire sunny weekend day inside cleaning, you'll be able to get things done a few minutes at a time.
The tips and tricks in Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness cover just about every aspect of your home. From closets to drawers, paperwork to toiletries, socks to scarves, and so much more! There are a lot of great ideas for finding extra storage, and some brilliant organizational tips.
I love the "Hot, Warm, Cold" rule. Essentially, frequently used items are considered "hot" (think the television remote), occasionally used items are "warm" (perhaps a cookie sheet), and rarely used items are "cold" (something like last year's tax return or your lobster pot). Hot things should live in a handy spot, while it's okay to put warm things in a lower cabinet or hallway pantry. Cold things can go in the attic, basement or some other out of the way space. This makes perfect sense, yet I'm quite sure that I'm not the only one who has "cold" items taken over coveted counter and shelf space... right?
Another "makes perfect sense and why aren't I already doing that?" tip in Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness involves linking chores to daily activities. For instance, when you're brushing your teeth, rinse out the sink and wipe off the faucet. Or, when you stop for gas, empty out the trash bag in your car. Sounds simple, doesn't it?
Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness is a handy, and fun, little guide. Grab yourself a copy today and start finding happiness in a less-cluttered world!
About the Author: Donna Smallin is the author of seven Storey titles with a total of more than 928,000 copies in print. She is a frequent contributor to major national women’s and home magazines and has been a guest on the CBS Early Show, Better TV, HGTV, CNN, and Fox & Friends, as well as numerous radio programs. For the past decade, Smallin has been a spokesperson for such companies as Bissell, Kaboom, Staples, 3M, Keurig, and others. Check out her blog and her Facebook page for more decluttering tips.
GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness
One-Minute Tips for Decluttering and Refreshing Your Home and Your Life
by Donna Smallin
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (December 16, 2014)
Let's face it, everyone is busy these days, running from here to there and multitasking along the way. There never seems to be enough hours in the day, and when we do have some "free time," who wants to
Donna Smallin, a nationally recognized organizing expert (file that one under "cool jobs!") is here to help us all with her book, Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness: One-Minute Tips for Decluttering and Refreshing Your Home and Your Life. This handy little book (literally, it's a mere 4" x 6") is jam packed with practical tips and encouraging words to help us common folk break thru the overwhelming chore barrier that discourages us all.
Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness teaches how to take those monstrous size chores and break them down into smaller, more manageable chunks. Instead of
"Look at decluttering as an opportunity to share your abundance. There are people who could really use the stuff you aren't using."As someone who has vowed to get rid of the things I haven't used - or worse yet, seen - in years, I can really appreciate that statement.
The tips and tricks in Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness cover just about every aspect of your home. From closets to drawers, paperwork to toiletries, socks to scarves, and so much more! There are a lot of great ideas for finding extra storage, and some brilliant organizational tips.
I love the "Hot, Warm, Cold" rule. Essentially, frequently used items are considered "hot" (think the television remote), occasionally used items are "warm" (perhaps a cookie sheet), and rarely used items are "cold" (something like last year's tax return or your lobster pot). Hot things should live in a handy spot, while it's okay to put warm things in a lower cabinet or hallway pantry. Cold things can go in the attic, basement or some other out of the way space. This makes perfect sense, yet I'm quite sure that I'm not the only one who has "cold" items taken over coveted counter and shelf space... right?
Another "makes perfect sense and why aren't I already doing that?" tip in Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness involves linking chores to daily activities. For instance, when you're brushing your teeth, rinse out the sink and wipe off the faucet. Or, when you stop for gas, empty out the trash bag in your car. Sounds simple, doesn't it?
Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness is a handy, and fun, little guide. Grab yourself a copy today and start finding happiness in a less-cluttered world!
About the Author: Donna Smallin is the author of seven Storey titles with a total of more than 928,000 copies in print. She is a frequent contributor to major national women’s and home magazines and has been a guest on the CBS Early Show, Better TV, HGTV, CNN, and Fox & Friends, as well as numerous radio programs. For the past decade, Smallin has been a spokesperson for such companies as Bissell, Kaboom, Staples, 3M, Keurig, and others. Check out her blog and her Facebook page for more decluttering tips.
GIVEAWAY!
Would having a copy of Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness make your life a little easier? Thanks to the folks at Storey Publishing, we are giving away a copy to one lucky reader. Just use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Friday, April 03, 2015
Review: The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop
Disclosure: Storey Publishing LLC sent a copy of The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop to Lapdog Creations for review. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions expressed are my own.
When a copy of The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop arrived on my doorstep, I quickly found myself blurting out that familiar phrase: I should learn to crochet. My Mom would be happy to teach me, but every time I say that out loud, I look at my piles of knitting WIP and the endless patterns lingering in my Ravelry queue. Not to mention my, ah-hum, Cricket loom that's been sitting in a corner of my living room for a couple years now. When would I have time to add another yarny-skill?
But for those of you who do crochet, like my Mom who will gladly inherit my copy, The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop is the perfect addition to your bookshelf! As a knitter, I know I always enjoying building my skills and techniques, and I'm sure you do as well.
At first glance, The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop is a beautiful book. Project and step-by-step photos are clear and colorful. Text and charts are easy to read. And, finding what you're looking for is a breeze thanks to the author organizing everything by technique. After she discusses how to choose yarns, arm your toolbox and control your tension, things start to get interesting... Fundamental Techniques. Shaping and Construction. Crochet in the Round. Advanced Shaping. Texture. Crochet in Color. Finishing Techniques.
The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop features patterns for 75 swatches, giving readers the opportunity to learn by doing, without committing to a big project (genius!).. But don't worry, the author has included 5 patterns to put your skills to good use as well: Slouchy Hat, Marguerite Cowl, Colorwork Bag, Lace Capelet and Cabled Lace Scarf.
Again, I'm no crocheter, but I'd have to say, it looks like the author has covered some great bases here. In fact, my Mom, who's crocheted since I can remember, took a look at the book and said there was plenty in there for her to explore. Which means The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop is appropriate for all skill levels. Whether you've just begun, or have been at it for 40 years, you'll enjoy learning new techniques or revisiting those you never quite got the hang of before.
Grab a copy of The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop, some yarn, your favorite hook, and a beverage, then sit down and get ready to take your craft to the next level!
About the Author: Dora Ohrenstein is a crochet designer, author, teacher, and publisher. She is the founder and editor of the online magazine Crochet Insider and the author of 4 books: The New Tunisian Crochet, Custom Crocheted Sweaters, Creating Crochet Fabric, and The Crochet Insider’s Passion for Fashion. Her chic and innovative designs appear regularly in Interweave Crochet and Crochet Today and have been published in several European magazines.
The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop
Essential Techniques for Becoming a More Versatile, Adventurous Crocheter
by Dora Ohrenstein
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (November 18, 2014)
When a copy of The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop arrived on my doorstep, I quickly found myself blurting out that familiar phrase: I should learn to crochet. My Mom would be happy to teach me, but every time I say that out loud, I look at my piles of knitting WIP and the endless patterns lingering in my Ravelry queue. Not to mention my, ah-hum, Cricket loom that's been sitting in a corner of my living room for a couple years now. When would I have time to add another yarny-skill?
But for those of you who do crochet, like my Mom who will gladly inherit my copy, The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop is the perfect addition to your bookshelf! As a knitter, I know I always enjoying building my skills and techniques, and I'm sure you do as well.
At first glance, The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop is a beautiful book. Project and step-by-step photos are clear and colorful. Text and charts are easy to read. And, finding what you're looking for is a breeze thanks to the author organizing everything by technique. After she discusses how to choose yarns, arm your toolbox and control your tension, things start to get interesting... Fundamental Techniques. Shaping and Construction. Crochet in the Round. Advanced Shaping. Texture. Crochet in Color. Finishing Techniques.
The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop features patterns for 75 swatches, giving readers the opportunity to learn by doing, without committing to a big project (genius!).. But don't worry, the author has included 5 patterns to put your skills to good use as well: Slouchy Hat, Marguerite Cowl, Colorwork Bag, Lace Capelet and Cabled Lace Scarf.
Again, I'm no crocheter, but I'd have to say, it looks like the author has covered some great bases here. In fact, my Mom, who's crocheted since I can remember, took a look at the book and said there was plenty in there for her to explore. Which means The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop is appropriate for all skill levels. Whether you've just begun, or have been at it for 40 years, you'll enjoy learning new techniques or revisiting those you never quite got the hang of before.
Grab a copy of The Crocheter's Skill-Building Workshop, some yarn, your favorite hook, and a beverage, then sit down and get ready to take your craft to the next level!
About the Author: Dora Ohrenstein is a crochet designer, author, teacher, and publisher. She is the founder and editor of the online magazine Crochet Insider and the author of 4 books: The New Tunisian Crochet, Custom Crocheted Sweaters, Creating Crochet Fabric, and The Crochet Insider’s Passion for Fashion. Her chic and innovative designs appear regularly in Interweave Crochet and Crochet Today and have been published in several European magazines.
Friday, November 07, 2014
REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: How to Knit & How To Crochet
How to Knit
by Leslie Ann Bestor
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (August 26, 2014)
How to Crochet
by Sara Delaney
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing LLC (August 26, 2014)
"Crafting is unique in its ability to involve many different areas of the brain. It can work your memory and attention span while involving your visuospatial processing, creative side, and problem-solving abilities." - Catherine Carey Levisay, a clinical neuropsychologist and wife of Craftsy.com CEO John Levisay
The popularity of handmade items has also soared in recent years. It's certainly more personal to create and give a special gift, versus a gift card to a mass merchant. Knit and crochet items are even taking over the high-fashion runways. Gone are the days of the dreaded - yet now treasured (that is, if any of them survived) - "grandma knits." Everyone wants handknits!
With so many newbies interested in fiber arts, Storey Publishing has added two new titles to the Storey Basics series; How to Knit and How To Crochet. Whether readers are complete newbies, or looking to expand their horizons from knit to crochet, or vice versa, these handy books are the perfect reference guides.
One of my favorite things about these books is their perfect little, handy size. Each measures a mere 5" x 7", making them great for at home or on the go - they fit in most purses and project bags! Each features clearly written instructions, as well as helpful graphics and illustrations.
How to Knit is divided into 6 chapters:
- When You're Ready to Cast On
- The Basic Stitches: Knit, Purl, and ... Slip
- Shaping Up Your Knitting: Increases & Decreases
- We All Make Mistakes
- Getting Down to the Tools and Materials
- Learning to Decipher Patterns
- Getting to Know Your Materials
- Getting Started: Forget the Chain!
- Chains: Your Foundation
- Basic Crochet Stitches
- Gauge
- Working in the Round
- Perfecting Techniques
- Pattern Reading
Whether you want these books for yourself or to give as a gift, don't miss out on your chance to win them below!
About the Authors:
Leslie Ann Bestor is the author of the best-seller Cast On, Bind Off and a knitting teacher and store manager at WEBS, America's Yarn Store. Many of her designs have been featured in books and magazines. Leslie currently lives and knits in Amherst, Massachusetts.
Sara Delaney has been crocheting since she was 7 years old. She studied clothing design and construction for 3 years. She's been teaching sold-out crochet classes at WEBS since 2007, where she also wrote the core curriculum for their crochet courses and workshops. Sara designs and publishes her patterns independently, as well as through Coats & Clark and WEBS. She lives and blogs in Belchertown, Massachusetts.
GIVEAWAY!
How would you like to win a copy of How to Knit or How to Crochet? Thanks to the great folks over at Storey Publishing, I get to give away a copy of each!
To Enter:
- Leave a comment below indicating which book you would like to win and why -- is it for you or to give as a gift? (please be sure your comment includes a way to contact you in case you are a lucky winner)
- Get a bonus entry for tweeting about this giveaway. Leave a separate comment with the link to your tweet in it. (get 2 bonus entries if your Tweet is a little more creative than just a straight link to this post)
- Get a bonus entry for liking the Lapdog Creations page on Facebook and commenting on any post on the page. Leave a separate comment indicating you did so.
Disclaimer: Storey Publishing LLC sent 2 copies each of How to Knit and How to Crochet to Lapdog Creations for review and give away purposes. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.
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