REVIEW: Planet Dog Holiday Items

Planet Dog Holiday Items
Where to Find: Planet Dog

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... is your shopping done yet?  No?  Well, have no fear when it comes to the 4-legged kids... Planet Dog can help!  They've even got you covered when it comes to surprising the human dog lovers on your list.
 

Planet Dog has once again teamed up with fellow Maine-based company L.L.Bean to offer some fabulous gift sets for our favorite canine companions, including the L.L.Bean's Holiday Gift Set for Dogs.  The set features a Boat & Tote Travel Bowl designed by Planet Dog with the famous L.L.Bean Tote in mind to use as the gift pack vessel. Stuffed inside, curious noses will find an Orbee-Tuff Mint, all-natural peanut nutter treats and a Planet Dog WAG euro sticker.  The gift set is available for purchase online at http://www.llbean.com/ and in L.L.Bean stores.

During the holiday season, purchasing gifts for pets is as popular and strong as all other gift buying,” says Pam Jones, Senior Designer for L.L.Bean. “We chose to work with another Maine company because of their pet product expertise, social responsibility and true passion for creating the best of everything for dogs," adds Jones.

The two companies have been working together for nearly a decade and in 2002, Planet Dog began designing and manufacturing private label products for the mail-order and retail giant.

“We are excited to offer these gifts for L.L.Bean customers with dog lovers and four-legged friends on their holiday shopping lists,” says Stephanie Volo, Planet Dog’s President. “The gift sets are both festive and functional and sure to make tails wag this holiday season,” adds Volo.

The Lapdogs thought the peanut butter treats were simply delicious and think all dogs deserve to find a L.L.Bean's Holiday Gift Set for Dogs under the tree this year!  They got in the holiday spirit by sharing the Orbee-Tuff Mint with their doggy cousins in CT... but only after Zeus posed with it and Lola gave it a taste test (because, you know, she has to be sure it's safe). 

After giving 16 Paws Up to the Planet Dog eats treats earlier this year, the Lapdogs were quite excited to try the newest flavor, Peppermint Cranberry Crunch.  The 100% organic treats were designed with form, function and versatility in mind. The tasty baked treats aid in tartar control and are packed with super nutrients for optimal health and wellness. They are soy, corn & wheat free and contain no wheat gluten.  As with the other flavors available, the Peppermint Cranberry Crunch eats were a big hit with the Lapdogs... Lola just couldn't wait to get the box open!

 

Offering yet another innovative and eco-friendly way for people to enjoy playing with their canine companions, Planet Dog has introducted the new Wood Chuck, a beautiful, strong and sustainable ball-tosser that provides maximum chuck-ability… naturally.  

The patent-pending Wood Chuck was ergonomically engineered with 100% sustainable bamboo and reused cork for comfort and grip-ability throw, after throw, after throw. Wood Chuck’s 4-pronged claw coupled with the pliant nature of Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff products make it a cinch to grab and throw.

Planet Dog is proud to incorporate more eco-friendly materials into their award-winning collection of dog products. All leftover bamboo scraps and sawdust from the Wood Chuck are re-purposed into MDF (medium-density fibreboard) so there is no waste in the manufacturing process.  The handle of the sleek Wood Chuck is made from actual cork scraps - chopped up cork leftover from other projects. They are not synthetic and would otherwise be disposed of if not given new life in the innovative new ball-tosser.

The Wood Chuck is socially responsible too. Planet Dog donates 2% of every product purchase to the Planet Dog Foundation (PDF) to support canine service nationwide. PDF provides cash grants to organizations throughout the country that train, place and support dogs who help people in need. Since January 2006, PDF has given away $750,000 in cash grants and in-kind product donations to exemplary programs.

The Wood Chuck was designed with Planet Dog's best-selling 2.5" Orbee-Tuff balls in mind. Because not all balls are created equally, some non-pressurized standard tennis balls also fit and can be used. 

The Lapdogs would like you to know that any dog would love to find some Planet Dog eats or a toy under the tree this year.  They want to know just what are you waiting for... their noses are available to help you punch the buttons on those keyboard while you shop from the comfort of your own home! 

GIVEAWAY WINNER! Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!

Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!

The winner has been selected by random number generator...

Here are your random integers: 20

Timestamp: 2010-12-8

Congratulations to Anita! I hope you'll enjoy this one!  Also, please note that Anita was actually the third random number picked.... the first two did not follow Lapdog Creations.  Going forward, please keep in mind the requirements to win!

GIVEAWAY WINNER! Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag

Thank you to everyone who entered to win a Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag!

The winner has been selected by random number generator...

Here are your random integers: 5

Timestamp: 2010-12-1

Congratulations to Kathy! Please get in touch with your snail mail address so I can send this cute bag off to you for your next trip to the dog park (yes, we'll all want to see photos)!!!

REVIEW: Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!
by Judith Durant
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing (November 13, 2010)

I think that nearly every knitter I know has an obsession with sock yarn.  Whether it's because you actually love to knit socks, you're mesmerized by the beautiful hand-dyed colorways or simply because it's so easy to accumulate (after all, what's one more skein of yarn, right?)... chances are you've got quite a few hanks of sock yarn at home, as do I.  

Fortunately for those of us who claim know that "sock yarn doesn't count as stash," Judith Durant is back with the latest edition to her wonderful One-Skein Wonders series, Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!

As yarn shops are devoting more and more space to sock yarns and independent dyers across the nation work their magic, our stashes are growing faster than we can say "cashmere socks!"  The possibilities of sock yarn seem endless and best of all, it's relatively inexpensive to bring a hank home here and there.  After all, you only need just one skein.  As those skeins continue to pile up, you've probably decided to explore your options of just what else you can knit with sock yarn... right?  Shawls, scarfs, fingerless mitts, baby hats -- you know you've reached for sock yarn to knit one recently! 

The patterns Judith Durant has chosen for Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders include baby clothes, mittens, scarves, hats, jewelry, cozies, bags, a dog sweater, a lamp shade and yes, even a few pairs of socks!  As with the past One-Skein Wonders books, all of the patterns were contributed by yarn shops and designers throughout North America. Knitters of every skill level will quickly find favorites... some knit up in fewer than three hours, others make creative use of sock yarn leftovers, and several make heirloom-worthy gifts.

Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders features an updated, easy-to-browse layout.  The full color photos are now placed with the pattern instructions, which are easy to follow. The patterns have been categorized into 4 sections: From Head to Toe (and Fingers, Too), It's a Wrap!, Knits for Kids and Bag It and More. 

This is a must add book to any sock yarn hoarder's collection!  Don't be shy... you know that's you!  Put Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders on your holiday wish list or scroll down to find out how you can win a copy!

I had the pleasure of interviewing Gina House, who designed The Ericka Scarf for Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders. I'm proud to call Gina a friend and honored to knit her designs!

Lapdog Creations: Tell us about the inspiration behind your gorgeous pattern, The Ericka Scarf.

Gina: The inspiration for this scarf came about from boredom, actually. I was fiddling around with the Noro Kureyon sock yarn and one of Barbara Walker's stitch pattern books one day when I was totally sick of what I was knitting. I loved the look of the sock yarn, but didn't think I wanted to make socks. When I saw an interesting mesh pattern in the book, I thought, "Hey, this combination might look amazing together!" And I thought it did ;)

Lapdog Creations: Do you tend to seek out one-skein patterns?

Gina: It's funny - I don't usually look for one-skein patterns for my own knitting (and, in fact, I tend to love patterns that use WAY more luxurious yarn than I can afford!), but I almost always use only one (or very few) skeins of yarn for my designs. I think it's because I love hearing about someone who knit one of my designs over a weekend and say, "That was so quick and fun. I love instant gratification projects!" So, I try to use really great, yummy yarns in small amounts for the accessories I design.

Lapdog Creations: OK, someone just gave you a gorgeous skein of hand-dyed sock yarn that you absolutely can NOT wait to cast on with... What type of pattern do you reach for first - socks or something else?

Gina: Hmmm...that's a good question! I seem to have grown out of my sock-knitting-frenzy phase and now I'm into my knitting-something-cozy-and-comfortable phase. If I had a gorgeous skein of hand-dyed sock yarn, I would probably start either a simple lace shawl design (to show off the awesome colors) or fingerless mitts. I also have to admit that I tend to horde my hand-dyed sock yarns. I have a number of skeins of Blue Moon Fiber Arts "Socks that Rock," Sereknity "Perfect" and Spunky Eclectic sock yarn that I just can't get myself to unskein. I have a mini-shrine (as one of my friends calls it) to this kind of lovely yarn and I just look at it and smile. Crazy, huh?

Lapdog Creations: Is there anything that you would like to add about your pattern, the book or sock yarn in general?

 

Gina: I would have to say that, although I've loved all of the One-Skein Wonders books, this is my absolute favorite - and not just because my pattern is in it! LOL! This book has a new layout that I really like and the full color pages make this book very attractive. It's also convenient that every single pattern uses the same weight yarn! Barely any thinking involved at all.

I've looked through the book almost every day since I've gotten it and I'm constantly finding new projects that I want to start. Such adorable patterns in here! I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to talk to Judith Durant and some of the other designers from the book at a book signing in Nashua, NH and I must say that I'm thrilled to have my pattern in a book with such talent.

 

Thank you Gina for taking the time to chat about everyone's favorite obsession, sock yarn!  For those who want to learn more about Mrs. House, jump back to my September, 2009 interview and review of The Joy of Socks book and be sure to check out Gina's wonderful patterns on Ravelry or via her blog!

GIVEAWAY! How would you like to win your very own copy of Sock Yarn One-Skein Wonders: 101 Patterns That Go Way Beyond Socks!? To enter:

1) Follow Lapdog Creations publicly (see "Followers" on the right hand side bar).

2) Leave a comment here telling me what your all time favorite sock yarn is and why!

To get an extra entry, send your friends here to enter and be sure to have them mention your name.... blog, Tweet, Facebook and text away

Winner will be selected by random number generator and must be a public follower of Lapdog Creations in order to win.

Deadline for entries is Tuesday, December 7 at midnight.

REVIEW: Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag

Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag
Where To Find: Funtote
 

 
With our ever growing "Go Green" society, I'm sure I'm not the only one who has begun stashing reuseable shopping totes in my car.  They work great, but they don't exactly fold up small and they're certainly not very chic looking either... 

So just what does a girl do when she wants to help mother earth and look stylish?  Why, she gets herself a Funtote Carry-Me Eco Bag, of course!  And if she happens to be the Crazy Dog Lady, she gets one in the Bone style. 

Funtote Carry-Me Eco Bags are made of ultra-strong high density nylon and they are super light-weight and waterproof.  They have a main compartment that is spacious enough for grocery shopping (or a trip to your LYS), as well as two large side pockets which are perfect for water bottles - one for you and one for your pooch, of course. 

Carry-Me Eco Bags easily fold up into their unique designed compact padded pouch to carry around with you.  Currently there are six designs available: Brown Bear, Red Bear, Banana, Mushroom, Soybean and the one you see here, Bone.  All of the prints are silk screen hand printed with low impact environmentally friendly inks. Funtote Carry-Me Eco Bags are built to last, to save you money and to save our mother earth!

The Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag is, of course, for dog lovers!  The black and white print is adorable and like our pooches, commands attention!  How can you not smile when you see it?  It might even make those dreaded shopping trips more fun!  When not in use, the bags folds up into a cute little black padded bone which becomes a small zippered attached "pocket" when in use.  

The bag is lightweight, yet strong enough to carry your groceries or books, and of course your yarn haul from the LYS or festival.   When open, the Bone bag measures 18" wide x 14.5" high x 5.5" deep with 22" long handles - perfect for tossing over your shoulder.  The bag can easily be spot cleaned with a wet cloth, but it is also machine washable - perfect for getting the dog drool off!

Get yourself a Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag and help save the planet in style!  They would also make terrific gifts this holiday season.  After all, who can't use a fun, compact reuseable tote? 

CONTEST!  Are you dreaming of a Funtote Bone Carry-Me Eco Bag of your very own?  Thanks to Funtote, we have one to giveaway to a lucky reader! To enter:

1) Follow Lapdog Creations publicly (see "Followers" on the right hand side bar).
2) Leave a comment here telling me why you want to win this bag.
To get an extra entry, send your friends here to enter and be sure to have them mention your name.... blog, Tweet, Facebook and text away!!!
Winner will be selected by random number generator and must be a public follower of Lapdog Creations in order to win.
Deadline for entries is Tuesday, November 30 at midnight.

REVIEW: Dogs & The Women Who Love Them

Dogs & The Women Who Love Them
Extraordinary True Stories of Loyalty, Healing & Inspiration
by Allen and Linda Anderson
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: New World Library (November 1, 2010)

The Anderson husband and wife team is back with their latest animal inspiration book, Dogs & The Women Who Love Them: Extraordinary True Stories of Loyalty, Healing & Inspiration.   This new book celebrates canine-female teams who have formed deep bonds of companionship.  Women from all over the country share their heartwarming tales that will make you smile, cry, laugh out loud and, for many of my fellow doggy Mamas, have you nodding your head several times as you read along.

There is something to be said about the bond between a woman and her dog.... the devotion, sincerity and joy shared by both often go unmatched.  Gildna Radner once said, "I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love.  For me they are the role model for being alive."  So true.  Our 4-legged friends become a never ending support system during both the good and bad times... listening intently on every word we say, protecting us from anything and everything (or protecting the garbage from the trash man who comes to pick it up every Friday), curling up beside us (or in our laps; especially true for our larger canine friends) on the couch to watch our must-see shows, or becoming our own personal trainer by getting us up off that couch for another walk!

Whether you're a normal doggy Mom or a Crazy Dog Lady such as myself, you'll enjoy the tales in Dogs & The Women Who Love Them.  This is a book for dog lovers, so grab a copy for yourself or for someone you know will love it this holiday season!

The following is an excerpt from Dogs & The Women Who Love Them...

Life Lessons from Teddy

Diana M. Amadeo, Merrimack, New Hampshire

When our third child was about a year old, my husband and I were under pressure to adopt a family dog. During spring break I took the kids to the humane society, where we discovered that none of the pets tugged at our heartstrings. We were halfway out the door when an elderly man arrived with a tiny dog so dirty that it was impossible to determine his color. The man said the dog had been retrieved from the arms of his sister — a hospice patient who had chosen to die in her home. He guessed that the poodle was about a year old.

We asked to see the dog and found him infested with fleas. When the dog played with my kids, he ran around, over, and on them. He jumped up and planted big wet kisses on their lips. Then, tiring of the kids, he suddenly propelled himself onto my chair, licked my cheek, put his head on my shoulder, and fell asleep.

“What is his name?” I whispered.

“Teddy,” the old man said quietly. “My sister called him that, but you can change it.”

It was an impulse decision — the kids and I debated for only a few minutes. Teddy had become so happy and excited to meet us that he had melted my heart. I worried that if we waited to adopt him, the next person in the door would take him and my children would be disappointed. So I signed papers to adopt the dirty poodle and promised to have him seen as soon as possible by a veterinarian. I had a fleeting concern that there might be more wrong with him than fleas. I wondered if I should slow down and insist that the humane society’s vet check him out first. And I worried how my husband would react, since I had failed to include him in this decision. But my overriding concern was that Teddy had just been taken from the arms of his dead owner, whom he obviously loved, and rushed out of familiar surroundings. I didn’t want this emotionally fragile being to be caged with dozens of barking dogs.

After we brought Teddy home, I immediately flea-dipped him. To my surprise, he turned out to be snow white.

There was never a question about keeping his name, because it suited him. When we called him Teddy, he immediately reacted with a wagging tail and huge grin. I also felt that Teddy didn’t need any more abrupt changes in his life, such as a different name.

Teddy wasn’t housebroken, and his behavior was less than desirable. He was by no means a perfect dog. But his imperfection became downright endearing. Whenever he was reprimanded for wetting the floor, his cheerful demeanor — his wagging tail and smiling face — noticeably changed. His tail would drop and he’d hang his head in shame. I couldn’t help but grin, forgive, and try to teach him again.

Teddy did not like being alone. There wasn’t a cage that could hold him, a door he couldn’t open, and a latch that he couldn’t figure out. The first time we left him by himself in our home, he leapt onto my son’s desk, pulled off the window screen, and tore it to shreds. When we got home, he proudly showed us his handiwork. I found myself wondering how such a little dog could make so profound a mess.

When we had an oak staircase put in our home, Teddy somehow maneuvered around the barricades and left perfect doggie prints in the shiny new coat of polyurethane on the stairs. The next day our carpenter cried out in exasperation, “Teddy, no, no, no!”

As our family grew, we added a second-story porch to our home. The contractor worked steadily for a while and then left the project unfinished while waiting for the windows to arrive. One morning Teddy made his way onto the porch, spied the open cutouts where windows would be placed, and took off at full speed. As in the old Mighty Dog commercial, he soared through the air before landing on the ground two floors be-low. Immediately he began to cry, hold up his paw, and then limp pathetically. A squirrel gathering acorns caught his eye. In a flash Teddy, suddenly healed, took off to chase the squirrel.

After I had a severe exacerbation of multiple sclerosis, I was left relatively immobile and with visual impairment and hearing loss. Teddy never left my side. He’d lick away my tears of self-pity and place his paw compassionately over my weak hands. Wheelchairs and crutches followed, and Teddy remained by my side, smiling and wagging his tail joyously at my physical progress.

Spasticity can be very painful. Teddy always seemed to know when I was hurting. He would jump on my lap, lay his head on my chest, and give me comfort. His activity level slowed to match mine during my ten-year rehabilitation. We remained inseparable, with him as my shadow.

Teddy could sense my down days, and if I felt weak he would not leave my side. One day I was in the living room, unable to pull myself from the sofa. I was facing our glass front door and watching traffic go by. Normally, Teddy would sit at the glass door and watch the outside activity too, but sensing my weakness he remained leaning against me on the sofa.

A deliveryman brought flowers. He rang the doorbell, and Teddy growled but didn’t rush to the door. The deliveryman saw me lying on the sofa, and I motioned him inside. He walked in the unlocked house and handed the flowers to me. Teddy growled at the intruder and climbed on top of me. When the deliveryman left, Teddy jumped off my body and licked my hand, as if to say, “It’s okay. I protected you.” This tiny nine-pound dog had in his own way ferociously defended me. How could I not smile?

After we’d had Teddy for a decade and a half, his eyes dimmed with cataracts and his hearing progressively worsened. He began having occasional bouts of arthritic pain and developed lateral sclerosis of the spine. When he couldn’t make it up the stairs, my husband or children would carry him. About that same time, Teddy started acting confused and he frightened easily. Two years earlier, when he had first shown signs of heart disease, I had talked with the veterinarian about euthanasia. But Teddy had rebounded miraculously, and our life together had continued. Finally, though, despite medications of all sorts, his entire body was simply shutting down, and the time had come to ease his suffering.

The decision — whether or not Teddy should be euthanized — was left to me. I agonized over it, not only because he seemed to rally so often and come back after being close to death, but most of all because I loved him much more than I thought anyone could love an animal. I loved his silliness, clumsiness, kisses, and protectiveness. But I could not leave him in so much pain just because I needed my spirits lifted. When you love someone, you let him go.

I believe that the spirit of a living being never dies. For a week following his death, I could hear the soft clink of Teddy’s dog tags, and the familiar sound brought me comfort.

And then I had a dream. Across from me, Teddy sat on a stuffed, black leather lounger. He looked humanlike with his legs crossed. In one paw he held a cigar. In the other paw he clutched a double bourbon. He smiled and said, “I was dying anyway. Don’t sweat it.” Then he raised his glass in salute and vanished.

This type of dream was totally out of character for me. If, while awake, I had visualized Teddy after death, I would have seen him in the clouds and with wings. But in recalling his antics, I realized that the dream actually was Teddy delivering one more of the many life lessons he had taught me. For Teddy wasn’t perfect. He was silly. He didn’t come off as too smart. He lived life to the fullest, his way. And when his time came, he had no regrets.

Cheers, Teddy!

Meditation: The life lessons a dog teaches aren’t always lofty or esoteric. Sometimes, they are like Teddy’s — live and let live. When has a dog made you smile at the wisdom of his or her ways?

From the book, Dogs & The Women Who Love Them. Copyright © 2010 by Allen and Linda Anderson. Reprinted with permission from New World Library.

About the Authors: Allen and Linda Anderson are speakers and authors of a series of twelve popular books about the spiritual relationships between people and animals.  They co-founded the Angel Animals Network in 1996 to increase love and respect for all life through the power of story.  They donate a portion of the revenue from their projects to animal shelters and animal welfare organizations. 

Get Your Shopping On!

Okay folks, Christmas is coming faster than a speeding reindeer and it's time to get your shopping on!  As for me personally... well I'll be doing as much as I possibly can from the comfort of my own couch.  Whether it's gifts you need to give or items to spruce up your place before the relatives arrive, CSNStores.com is your one-stop shopping place for everything from bathroom shelving to cookware to area rugs to childrens' toys to dog beds to telescopes to bedding to electric fireplaces!

I have once again teamed up with CSNStores.com to review another one of their products that might interest you, my readers.  Stay tuned... and in the meantime, hop on over to CSNStores.com if you're in the mood to get your shopping on!

REVIEW: Casey Jones Bones Pumpkin Treats

Casey Jones Bones Pumpkin Treats
Where to Find: The Dog Bonery

 

Pumpkins are a big part of fall in New England, especially in the Lapdog household.  We love everything pumpkin ... pie, ice cream, coffee, pancakes, muffins, cheesecake and Casey Jones Bones! 


Zeus does tricks for CJB


Casey Jones Bones are made with only the best, all natural ingredients in the scenic Lakes Region of New Hampshire.  Everything you find in Casey Jones Bones is something that you will find in your very own kitchen - nothing artificial and no preservatives.  The pumpkin treats are available in both a regular recipe, as well as a wheat free recipe for dogs that may have a wheat allergy.    

• The regular Pumpkin Treats are made with white flour, whole wheat flour, pumpkin, water, rolled oats, eggs, New Hampshire maple syrup, vegetable oil, cinnamon and nutmeg. 



Lola says Gimme!



The Wheat Free Pumpkin Treats are made with rye flour, pumpkin, rolled oats, water, New Hampshire maple syrup, vegetable oil, cinnamon and nutmeg



Sophie says Ahhh....



Not only will your dog be drooling over them, but you just might as well - they smell like pumpkin pie!  Even better, you'll feel good about giving Casey Jones Bones to your pack - I know I do!

Casey Jones Bones have already received the Lapdogs official 16 Paws Up Seal of Approval earlier this year and the pumpkin treats are no exception.  The Lapdogs love them and have been begging for more!

 

  

Sophie has a crush on Casey Jones!

Casey Jones is a real dog who lends both his namesake and likeness to these fabulous treats.  He loves to run in the fields of New Hampshire, hike the trails of the White Mountains, ride in the car and relax on his favorite bed. If you're in the Granite State and happen to see a big yellow, jolly dog running in a field or hiking a trail, stop and ask if it's Casey Jones... you just might have a celebrity sighting on your hands!



Tut is concentrating...

Casey Jones was once again nice enough to share a treat to make the humans smile as well... 20% off your entire order! Simply hop on over to their website, select your items and during the check-out process, enter Lapdog in the coupon code field and you will receive 20% off your entire order!  So what are you waiting for... order some Casey Jones Bones for your favorite pooch now... they make great holiday gifts!





Zeus says these CJB are his - please ask Santa for your own!

REVIEW: Tom Bihn Little Swift

Tom Bihn: Little Swift
Where To Find: Tom Bihn


Little Swift in Vulcana Hemp/Recycled Rubber

I knew I had found the perfect knitting bag for an on-the-go, multitasking doggy mom when I reviewed the Swift bag earlier this year.  It's the perfect size for toting around all of your purse stuff, plus a couple of knitting projects, magazines, water bottle, book and treats (both human and dog).  However, there are those days when all you really need to carry is something purse-size.  Problem being is that most purses aren't project friendly... cue the Little Swift!  
 

(l-r) Swift in Cork, Little Swift in Hemp

 The Little Swift is a smaller version of The Swift from Tom Bihn, which was originally designed for knitters and crafty types by Tom in collaboration with the readers of Knitty Magazine. Apparently many of the women who work at Tom Bihn carry Swifts and Tom noticed they - like me - didn't always need such a large bag.. On some days, a smaller version would be best... and the Little Swift was born.

Like the Swift, the Little Swift is a highly organized, stylish machine!  Inside you'll find 2 clear zippered Urethane pockets backed with a soft Dyneema/nylon ripstop fabric. Above one of these pockets is a handy "o-ring" with a key snap attached - you won't waste time searching for the car keys the next time you have to run out the door for another skein of yarn!  Two more "o-rings" are included, one on each end of the interior, designed to allow you to easily clip the included Small Stuff Sack to either side. You can also use them to clip in any of the additional accessories that you may purchase, including an extra Yarn Stuff Sack or Clear, Padded, or Cork Organizer Pouches.

The Little Swift is just as comfortable to carry as it's larger sister, with handles made from the highest-quality Poron foam padding. They are an ideal length for tossing over your shoulder or carrying in hand. A button closure secures the top of the bag with three different fastening points.

The Vulcana Hemp/Recycled Rubber material is new and exclusive to the Swift.  It is made in the USA from post-consumer recycled tires with a bonded overlay of sustainable hemp - yes, the bag is officially Green. The result is a fabric that is the perfect marriage between durable and delicate, not to mention quite unique. You may notice the slightest bit of rubber smell when you first open the package, but that fades faster than you can cast on your next project. If you are concerned, Tom Bihn will gladly send you a swatch sample to smell for yourself before ordering.

The official verdict? I'm still in love with my Swift and now love it's mini-me just as much! The Little Swift is the perfect size bag when you don't need quite as much stuff, but still want to have all of your essentials, as well as a knitting project.  In addition, it is Made in The USA and environmentally friendly.  Plus, I'll point out once again that both Tom and his Vice President, Darcy Gray have rescued shelter dogs... icing on the cake!  You won't be disappointed whether you choose the Swift or the Little Swift... and it's just about that time of year when Mama has an excuse to ask Santa for a new bag!

REVIEW: Knitting at Home: 60 Classics from Ella Rae Designs

Knitting at Home: 60 Classics from Ella Rae Designs
by Leanne Prouse
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Sixth&Spring Books (October 5, 2010)

Are you looking for some fresh ideas to add to your holiday gift knitting this year?  Check out Knitting at Home: 60 Classics from Ella Rae Designs and let the creativity flow.  There is something special about handcrafting things for your home - or the home of loved ones - and there is no better place to be surrounded by items made with love. 

Knitting can be incorporated into the decor of any room, whether in a practical or whimsical way and Leanne Prouse, creator of Ella Rae yarns, shows us how through her collection of over 60 timeless projects in Knitting at Home.  Knitters of all skill levels will find designs to create while being inspired through this pattern book-turned-home decorating guide.  Grab a copy, your favorite beverage and relax on the couch as you flip through the endless pages of inspiration and get those needle clicking away on cozy home projects!

Knitting at Home is organized into six sections: A Room for Living, A Room for Relaxing, A Room for Sharing, A Room for Retreating, A Room for Little Ones and It's the Weekend.  Patterns include everything from throws and children's sweaters to fingerless gloves and coffee cozies to housecoats and pillows to slippers and toys.  The photography throughout the book is beautiful and truly shows off the loving comfort of handknits.  The ideas for creating a comfortable home environment through handknits will flow beyond your imaginatgion.

Some of my personal favorite patterns include:

• Hooded House Coat - I live in comfy sweats during the winter months, but this easy-fit house coat would make comfy just a little more stylish
• Patchwork Throw - this is not your Grandmother's sampler blanket, yet it's still refined and has that "made with love" look about it when you drape it across a chair
• Trellis Stitch Pillow - a pretty little pillow that will add a special splash of color to any room
• Baby Slippers - the cutest little felted slippers you ever did see!
• Cable Cot Blanket - a classic cabled baby blanket that screams "made with love"

Grab your very own copy of Knitting at Home and get started on those holiday gifts today, or put the book on your list for Santa.  You won't be disappointed and you'll have many years of inspiration


About the Author: Leanne Prouse is one of Australia's top knitwear designers. She has been designing for more than 20 years and has had her own line of yarns for over 5 years. Before launching the Ella Rae brand, Leanne was the head designer at Jo Sharp yarns. She is known for her simple, classic designs for women, children and the home and has published 16 books of patterns.

REVIEW: Cowl Girls: The Neck's Big Thing to Knit

Cowl Girls: The Neck's Big Thing to Knit
by Cathy Carron
Paperback: 136 pages
Publisher: Sixth&Spring Books (October 5, 2010)

Cathy Carron is back with Cowl Girls: The Neck's Big Thing To Knit, a collection of more than 40 designs to keep necks warm all winter long.  Cowls are not only the hottest new accessory, they're also quick to knit and a great use for luxury yarns.  They just might be a knitter's new best friend!

Cowl Girls covers several variations, including gaiters, snoods, balaclavas, collars, infinity scarves and necklaces.  Confused as to exactly what each term means?  No worries, Cathy provides a handy guide to make sure you get the name-game right.  While the majority of patterns are written in the round (thank you, no seams!), a chart is provided to adapt any of the patterns to either in the round or back and forth knitting.

Some of my favorite patterns...

• Aran-Go-Braid, a Celtic inspired cowl, knit in three separate pieces before being braided and sewn together
• World's Fair, a beautiful piece of colorwork, this one is on my must-knit list for sure
• Neverending Story, a super long cowl that can be worn as an infinity scarf or doubled up for more warmth around the neck 
• Need for Tweed, THE cowl for luxury yarn, this one combines a wool-angora blend with a chunky cashmere blend to produce a cowl you'll want to wear 24/7

Grab yourself a copy of Cowl Girls and forget about tired old scarves this holiday gift-knitting season.  Surprise the ones you love with something comforting, warm and stylish - cowls can be worn in several different ways, layered under or over jackets, creating multiple looks to get you through the winter months.  Even the hard-to-please teenager will be thrilled with a pocketed gaiter that will not only keep her warm, but hold her Ipod as well.  Got a ski bunny on your to-knit list this year?  Knit her the Cowl of Many Colors, which coverts from a snug gaiter to a balaclava that covers the ears and head as well. 

About the Author: Cathy Carron is a knitwear designer and owner of Pond Edge Bespoke Designs, a hand-knit hat business. Her patterns have appeared in Vogue Knitting, Knit. 1, Knit Simple, Interweave Knits and knitscene magazines. She is the author of Hip Knit Hats, Knitting Sweaters from the Top Down and Hattitude. Cathy lives in New York City with her husband and two daughters.

REVIEW: Vogue Knitting Mittens & Gloves

Vogue Knitting Mittens & Gloves
by Editors of Vogue Knitting Magazine
Hardcover: 144 pages
Publisher: Sixth&Spring Books (October 5, 2010)

Vogue Knitting Mittens & Gloves is a wonderful collection of designs that span more than 20 years of knitting history.  Whether you're looking for traditional, fingerless, fair isle, convertible, fancy or downright flashy, there's a pair here for you. 

Scarves are every new knitter's go-to project and hats make perfect last minute gifts, but mittens and gloves often get lost in the world of works-in-progress.  Why?  With the changing temperatures, fingerless gloves are the perfect fall weather accessory and when the snow starts to fall, you'll want something more substantial to keep those digits warm.  Mittens and gloves are a great way to add style to an outfit, and they're functional too.  They're also a great way to use up those luxurious single skeins we all have in our stash, or to try a new technique like fair isle.  So, come on knitters, let's get those DPNs clicking away on thumbs and fingers!

The editors dove into the archives of Vogue Knitting and Knit.1 magazines and came up with over 40 of their favorite patterns to present in Vogue Knitting Mittens & Gloves.  The patterns have been divided into 4 categories; Smitten with Mittens, Glove-ly & Amazing, Wristy Business and Fun & Funky.  Whether you're ready to cast on your first or fiftieth pair, there are patterns for all skill levels and interests. 

The photos throughout the book show off the mittens and gloves quite nicely and detailed close-ups shots are provided for the more complicated patterns.  Charts are large, clear and easy to read, as are the directions.  The original yarn used is given, as well as a substitue yarn for those where the original may no longer be available. 

My copy of Vogue Knitting Mittens & Gloves is already full of post-it flags, marking several pairs that I would like to knit for myself and for gifts.  Some of my favorites:

• Alpine Mittens ~ jewel-toned yarns combine with a tree motif for a gorgeous pair of fair isle mitts
• Fold-Over Mitten-Gloves ~ a combo of fingerless gloves and mittens come together in a happy marriage using sock yarn (which I've got plenty of in my stash!)
• Rainy Day Fingerless Gloves ~ colorwork and duplicate stitching combine for a beautiful pair of fingerless gloves that you'll want to wear all fall long (I wish I had a pair now!)
• Embroidered Gauntlets ~ from Nicky Epstein, these are truly showstoppers with the floral embroidery on a basic stockinette glove

If you love mittens and gloves, be sure to add Vogue Knitting Mittens & Gloves to your knitting bookshelf today!  If you get those needles clicking soon enough, you just might have several pairs complete in time for the holidays!

CONTEST WINNERS! HuggleHounds

Thank you to everyone who entered to win the HuggleHounds Long and Lovely Lions!

The winners have been selected by random number generator...

Here are your random integers: 2, 8

Timestamp: 2010-10-8

Congratulations to Chan & her fashionistas and Jen & her big boys! These lovely lions will soon be roaring on their way!

CONTEST WINNER! Brave New Knits

Thank you to everyone who entered to win a copy of Brave New Knits!

The winner has been selected by random number generator...

Here are your random integers: 6
Timestamp: 2010-10-6

Congratulations to Cat! Please get in touch with your snail mail address so I can send this great book off to you!

REVIEW: Knitted Nursery: Toys, Clothes and Furnishings for a Beautiful Baby's Room

Knitted Nursery: Toys, Clothes and Furnishings for a Beautiful Baby's Room  
by Nancy Atkinson & Sarah Jane Tavner
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Guild of Master Craftsman Publications Ltd (September 7, 2010)

As knitters, we almost always know someone who's expecting and therefore, always have baby knits on the needles, right?  Well, it's time to forget all that you know about those baby knits... it's not only about hats, booties and blankies anymore!  Leave those ho-hum nursery items on the registry at Babies R Us to the uncreative and think - or rather, knit - outside of the box!  With over 20 patterns in Knitted Nursery: Toys, Clothes and Furnishings for a Beautiful Baby's Room, you'll have something new to cast on for every baby this year!

Published by our friends across the ocean in the UK, Knitted Nursery is not your typical baby pattern book.  You won't find any pastel pink or baby blue amongst the pages.  Instead, it's all about bright, bold color.  The photography throughout is beautiful and really shows off the strong, contemporary style.  Again, this is not your typical baby pattern book... and I love that!

The patterns are fresh and exciting - for both young eyes and old.  Knitted Nursery is suited for beginners, yet there are plenty of adorable toys and other fun patterns to keep advanced knitters interested as well.  Beginning with the simplest of patterns and progressing from there, Knitted Nursery allows beginners to learn as they knit and build their skills in a chronological order.  The first two patterns, a Snuggle Blanket and Snuggle Cushion Cover are made up of individual squares that are sewn together in the end.  Although I personally don't love sewing seams, these are great projects for beginners who want to see instant gratification with quickly finished squares.  From there the book takes you through decreases, increases and simple stripes. 

Although there are some clothing items in Knitted Nursery, the best patterns truly are the knit toys.  Some of my favorites from the book:

• Lazy Day Armchair ~ as seen on the cover, it would be a fabulous addition in any toddler's room
• Washing Line Wall Hanger ~ a group of adorable little knit tees that act as storage and look cute strung across a changing table or bookcase
• Draughty Dog ~ this knit "hot dog" (dachshund) is designed to be a door draft dodger, but triples as a cushion and cuddle toy
• Pompom Pixie Hat ~ think Dr. Seuss and Whoville.... adorable!
• Cosmic Cube ~ an interactive space-themed cube, each side features a different activity for baby to play with

Beginners will appreciate the great Getting Started section which includes information & illustrations on casting on & off, basic stitches, shaping, buttonholes, tension, sewing up and troubleshooting.

If you have an expecting friend who's expressed an interest in knitting, Knitted Nursery is the book for her!  If you find yourself knitting baby hats and booties time after time, perhaps you want to add Knitted Nursery to your own bookshelf... especially if you want to venture into knitted toys. 

About the Authors: Freelance writer/journalists, Nancy Atkinson and Sarah Jane Tavner both began knitting as children and became passionate designers. Nancy has written features and columns for many publications, including The Guardian, Vogue, Glamour and Marie Claire. Sarah is a freelance writer and programme maker for TV and radio at both the BBC and Discovery Channel. They both live in London.

REVIEW: HuggleHounds Long and Lovely Lion

HuggleHounds Long and Lovely Lion 
Where to Find: HuggleHounds
 

How adoroable is the HuggleHounds Long and Lovely Lion?  I know that you can't help but smile when you see his bright colored polka dot body and floppy lime green mane.  With five - yes five! - squeakers inside his body, your dog will be smiling too.

HuggleHounds are snuggly, durable and fun - not to mention some of the Lapdogs' most favorite toys (Lola is infatuated with the seatbelt spider and Sophie loves the bottle monkey)!

HuggleHounds was started in 2009 by Bob Flynn and Julie Krauss, who combined have over 40 years experience in the pet industry. They built their company on two simple philosophies; to be easy to do business with and to bring unique, innovative and quality pet products to the marketplace. Every product is designed for HuggleHounds by HuggleHounds.

HuggleHounds are made for dogs who like to have fun - like Bob and Julie's own pets, Buddy and Salem. 

Buddy is a 120 pound Goldendoodle who loves to test every product. He is strong and dedicated to trying to destroy every toy they give him.

Salem is a retired black Labrador Retriever who loves to wake up every morning with a smile on her face and immediately put a toy in her mouth (sounds like Lola). She works in the office everyday reviewing HuggleHounds product quality.

HuggleHounds uses a special patent pending Tuffut Technology for their toys.  Their slogan?  "Go Ahead... Chew Me... Dare You!"  With 4 tough chewers in our household, toys that last are certainly important.  The Tuffut Technology uses three special bonded layers that essentially provide body armour to protect the toy.  An outside, middle and inside layer are stitched together with a specially developed heavy duty thread, using up to 65% more stitches per inch to form a tight seal.  Reinforced strees point seams add additional toughness - external seams can not be easily opened by aggressive chewers!  Tuffut Technology has been tested to withstand over 100 pounds of tugging and pulling. 

The Lapdogs now have five HuggleHounds toys in their collection, two of which are the Long and Lovely Lions.  Not one of them has been torn, ripped or destuffed in any way!  They have been playing, tugging and cuddling with two seatbelt spiders for at least 8 months, a bottle monkey for 3 months and the two Long and Lovely Lions for 2 months.  Not one shows any signs of destruction, with the exception of a dead squeaker or two.  The Lapdogs love to play with their HuggleHounds and I love that the toys are standing up to all 4 of them!

The Long and Lovely Lion is just one of the many plush toys available from HuggleHounds.  Convenient for dogs of all sizes, Long and Lovely Lion is available in a Mini (15"), as well as an Extra Large (26") version.  They are machine washable.

CONTEST! Is your furbaby craving a Long and Lovely Lion to tug or cuddle with?  We have 2 to giveaway, one in each size! To enter:

1) Follow Lapdog Creations publicly (see "Followers" on the right hand side bar).
2) Leave a comment here telling me how tough your 4-legged chewer is.  Also, please indicate which size (mini or extra large) you would like if you win.

To get an extra entry, send your friends here to enter and be sure to have them mention your name.... blog, Tweet, Facebook and text away!!!
Winner will be selected by random number generator and must be a public follower of Lapdog Creations in order to win.
Deadline for entries is Thursday, October 7 at midnight.


Zeus hopes You win!