Designer's note

My new blog

2010-10-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

Paranormal Psychological Thriller
Explores the birth, life, death and possible redemption of fibre artist --Gwen Bjarnson
Projected publication date is November 12, 2010
Book blog: http://swatercursed.blogspot.com

Adapting a children's sweater to fit an adult.

2010-07-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

I just received an email in my inbox that may be of interest to you.
Have you ever saw a pattern and thought I'd really like to knit that but the pattern doesn't included instructions for my size.
What did you do?
Here's what you could do. Here's my advice to the knitter who contacted me.
Step 1) Search your bureau for your favourite sweater -- one that fits you well.
Step 2) Lay the sweater on a table. Carefully measure the sweater -- width and length.
Step 3) Using the yarn you have selected for this project, cast on for a sample swatch. Cast on 20 stitches and work for 2 inches. Use the same stitch pattern you will use for your project.
Math time...
For example, say that the front of your sweater is 20 inches wide.
Say that when you measured your sample swatch you got 5 stitches per inch.
5 x 20 = 100 stitches
You will need to cast on 100 stitches for the front of your sweater.
Work in stitch pattern until the desired length is achieved.
I hope this information is helpful to you.
Happy knitting,
Leanne

Did you know that I'm author?
Did you know that Decadent Publishing has contracted to publish one of my books?
Yes, they did...
The name of the book is The Sweater Curse.
With a name like that you have to know that it has something to do with knitting. And you guessed right.
The Sweater Curse explores, in part, the special relationship between knitters and knitwear designers.
To learn more, please log on to: www.oknitting.com

Knitting needles in hand

2010-07-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

I'm going to a dance this weekend. I didn't have anything to wear. Well, I did have something to wear but I'd worn it before. I couldn't wear it yet again. Even though the dress is beautiful. You understand.
So, I'm knitting a top out of bamboo. I love the yarn. I hope I love the top. Fingers crossed.
Have front and back done, just working on the straps. Saturday is tomorrow. Today is full. Will I make it? Your positive thoughts are welcome.
Picture to follow. Hopefully taken during the dance.
Knit on
Leanne

Stitch pattern revisited

2010-05-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

As a lazy knitter, I have a few stitch patterns that I return to over and over again. Seed stitch -- I love that stitch pattern. Stockinette stitch is another.

Recently, I received an email from a knitter lately. She asked about Stockinette stitch and when it would stop rolling. She asked me what she was doing wrong.

I wrote back and said in brief that she was doing nothing wrong. That rolling is what Stockinette stitch did.

On Wednesday, March 22, 2006

I had stockinette stitch on my mind.

I wrote...

"Rolling, rolling, rolling keep that knitting rolling...Stoking stitch"

(I think I was thinking about the song Rawhide.)

I wrote on...

My knitting dictionary defines "stockinette" as "an elastic knitted textile fabric."

The stitch pattern goes by many names jersey, stocking stitch, stockinette stitch and what I know as Stockinette stitch. I have had other knitters correct me saying, "Oh, you mean stocking stitch:. Actually, all names are correct.

The Knitting Dictionary states that the jersey stitch 'gets its name from the isle of Jersey where, for a very long time, fishermen's wives have knitted sweaters in this stitch for their husbands."

Pam Allen recounts the history of the stitch as dating back to the 1500s and the popularity of knitted stockings in England.

This stitch pattern has a "right" and "wrong" side. The "right" side is called the Stockinette stitch and is achieved by the knit stitch. ...

The stitch pattern is written like this:
Row 1: knit -- to end of row
Row 2: purl -- to end of row.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern.

The "wrong" side is called reverse Stockinette stitch and is achieved by the purl stitch. ...

The stitch pattern is written like this:
Row 1: purl -- to end of row.
Row 2: knit -- to end of row.
Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern.

The correct abbreviation for Stockinette stitch is STst. It is the only stitch pattern that uses capital letters. Why? I'm not sure.

In fact, there are many things about this stitch pattern which leaves me scratching my head. For example, why if both the purl and knit samples lay flat does Stockinette stitch curl? (Now in 2010, I have learnt that it is the difference in weight of purl and knit that makes Stockinette stitch curl.) Why if both the purl and knit samples look the same when worked separately do the stitches look different when worked in alternative rows? (This remains a mystery to me. If you know, tell me, tell me do.)...

How to tame the curl...
One way -- blocking

http://www.ehow.com/video_4976633_blocking-knitting-projects.html

I hope you enjoy knitting STst as much as I do.
Knit on, my friends, knit on.
Leanne
What other things do I write about?
Find out, visit: www.oknitting.com

the ebook NOVETLY YARN is published

2010-04-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to make available for you this new and improved edition of NOVELTY YARN. You will find a gentle blend of poetry, prose and essays. Why take my word for it? Check it out yourself. You can sample the first eleven pages of this ebook for free. You can purchase the ebook for $3. Log on to http://www.oknitting.com/ and follow the links.

Progress on the ebook edition of Novelty Yarn

2010-04-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I worked really hard and the result is that the ebook edition of NOVELTY YARN is almost ready to be sent to smashwords. The only thing I forgot was that I was going to include a pattern. That's right a pattern.
Cool, eh?
I know...
What pattern?
Well, I call it Jo
and it looks like this...
I've knit this toque for men; I've knit it for women; I've knit for children; I knit it for infants; I knit for me. All have loved it. The ribbing means that it conforms to your head -- really keeps your ears warm.
Is it easy to knit?
Well, you know that I don't design, I don't knit anything that isn't.
I will include sizes for adults, children and infants. The only thing I won't be able to include is a picture. So I will post a picture on www.oknitting.com . I will post it there when the ebook is published.
So when you see a photo of this toque on www.oknitting.com you'll know the NOVELTY YARN is ready for you.
Happy knitting,
Leanne
Visit me: www.oknitting.com

It's all me...

2010-04-05T11:30:00.000-07:00

The last time I wrote here, I told you that I would explain this..

Well, actually, even though this is a recent picture, it represents a tradition. A tradition that Hubby started.
I wrote about this tradition on Wednesday, November 16th, 2005 in an post I called -- WHAT GOT CUT OFF?
Here's what I wrote...

Okay, let me premise this by saying, "I'm not vain." Half the time I run around with no make-up. Thankfully I live on a tiny island and can get away with this.
That said, I am experiencing a weird indescribable feeling. You see my hubby had this great idea of donating his hair for wigs for cancer survivors. With memories of my Mom's ordeal running around in my head, I surfed for a way to make his wish possible. I found this informative site: www.cancer.ca I went to their "hair donation" page and found the info I needed. We discovered that the amount they required was: 8". 8" what is that? Nothing. So I decided to throw my hat (or should I say hair) into the ring. I was the first on the chair. When asked how much I would like to donate I said and I quote: "As much as you can take. At least 10"." I am still wondering where that came from.
So did she take 8"? Oh, no, she was up for the challenge she took 12". My hubby was slightly shocked when he saw me. The new length is short. Everyone likes it. Everyone accept yours truly. The only thing I see when I look in the mirror is my very round very large Icelandic-Canadian face with no hair to balance it. I have rediscovered dangling earrings and high collars. So am I vain?

That's, that's. I concluded with a picture of my long hair.
However, that's not where the story ended. You see the next month Hubby and I went to his Christmas party. After the Christmas party, we went with some of his co-workers to a bar. It was one of those bars where you have to wait in line. A bouncer chooses the pick of the litter to enter and drink.
Well, Hubby and I were turned away. Some of the more prettier co-workers had to walk out of the bar and fight for us to be included.
You see me with my new hair cut wasn't judged visually appealing.
Would this have happened on Mayne Island?
Um, no.
Would this have happened to me if my hair had been longer?
I like to think it wouldn't.
You may say, "Who cares?"
I whine, "I do. It hurt."

So it took me five years -- April 1, 2010 -- until I...

did it again.

This time I will send my locks to "Angel Hair for Kids".

I encourage you to join in our tradition.

Leanne

Visit me: www.oknitting.com

Happy April Fool's day

2010-04-01T09:39:00.001-07:00

Saturday, Apirl 1st, 2006
Fool: one who refuses to laugh at themselves.

Mom: "Oh! No! I dropped a stitch."

Child: "Don't worry Mom. You have lots more."

Be continually looped...knit.

Leanne

Thrusday, April 1st, 2010

What is this...

and what does it have to do with today?

This fool's prayer...

When someone needs praise let me the first to give it.

Leanne

What a difference time makes

2010-03-31T08:25:00.000-07:00

Here's what I wrote on November 12th, 2005

I can't tell you how much fun I had today. I love working in my little studio while customers shop. Tons and tons of fun was had by all.

My studio is tiny but it is prefect for me. When we bought our house we were delighted that this studio came with. At first my hubby and I were sharing it. I mean how much room can yarn and needles take up. Well you would be surprised. So finally one day hubby looked around and said "I think you need this space to yourself" and so he began to move out. I was thrilled!

Of course there are things I would love to change. It is always thus. For one thing I need a sandwich board on the road. Most Mayne Island studios have this and I should too. Don't get me wrong I love my quilt sign. (One day I will have to tell you the story behind it. It is quite a story.) Its just that I need more signage. I would also like to paint the studio walls and replace the carpet. These things will come. After all I just opened my studio. This year it was open by appointment but after today I am seriously considering having set hours of operation. As I have other commitments this will be a little tricky but I can make it work.

A sweater is knit one stitch at a time.

And on March 31st, 2010 I write...

Wow, I can't believe that I ever considered having my place of work open for public viewing daily. I am a private person and I enjoy working in seclusion. That may be one reason why my plan to have shop hours never became reality.

Last October I moved out of the studio.

Why?

Well, you see, my knitting and my writing kept following me into the house.

I found it easier to schedule my business work around my household tasks. This was hard to do when I was working in the studio.

I now work on a large oak desk in the living room.

Our house is on a hill so as I write I look out a large window into a forest of trees. I even have a peek-a-boo view of the ocean.
Who is in the studio?

Hubby.

It has become his music room. A space where he can not only practice and jam but also record live performances.

Life is grand for all.

Leanne

Visit me: www.oknitting.com

Come for a walk with me down memory lane

2010-03-30T07:46:00.000-07:00

Where were you in November, 2005? What were you doing?
Well, I was on Mayne Island and one of the things I did was start blogging.
This is what I said in my first blog post...

Have you noticed that acquiring a new blog is like shopping for shoes? Currently, I am trying a few on. It's fun! I am definitely up for the challenge.

"When the very first knitter knit for the very first time she dropped a stitch and TINK was born."

Leanne
Visit me: www.oknitting.com

Deleting

2010-03-29T10:24:00.001-07:00

I did plan to delete this blog today. I was moving on. I wanted to embrace the new and say good-bye to the old.
I began this blog in 2005. I began with the plan of writing daily posts.
I wanted to become a writer. All the books I read, all the writers I spoke with repeated the same advise, "If you want to write -- write."
They encouraged me to make a daily commitment.
I knew if left to my own devices I would start out with the best intentions but would soon forget, reject, and neglect.
I need to be accountable. So I started blogging and I found you.
To my delight, you logged on to read my writing. Because of your support I began to view myself as a writer. I began to think that I had something worthy of being read.
I feel, as a writer, that this blog helped me to grow.
I am not who I was five years ago. Who is?
However, as I thought of deleting this blog I was surprised to discover that I wasn't ready. No, before I delete this blog I need to revisit some of the old posts. So that's what I will do. At least once a week, I will share one of these old posts with you. I hope you will enjoy walking down memory lane with me.
All the best
Leanne
Visit me: www.oknitting.com

Good bye

2010-03-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

On Monday, I will delete this blog. Please remember that I do have other blogs you can visit:
http://oknitting4.blogspot.com/ soon to become: http://photosbyleanne.blogspot.com/
http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/
http://oknitting3.blogspot.com soon to become http://leanneism.blogspot.com/
To see when these blogs have new posts please visit: http://www.oknitting.com/
All the best
Leanne

I'm still here...

2010-03-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

I'm still knitting but I'm doing more writing.
I'm still blogging but not here. I'm blogging here: www.maynelyamystery.com This blog is about my first novel MAYNELY A MYSTERY. I'm also blogging here: http://oknitting3.blogstop.com In this blog, I write about life and other things of importance. I'm also blogging here: http://oknitting4.blogspot.com This blog features my amatuer photography. I stress the word 'amatuer' so that you will forgive me when my pictures at shaky or out of focus. On the homepage of www.oknitting.com I post a link to the blogs shortly after I post. So drop by and say "hi".
All the best
Leanne

Keeping in touch

2009-12-04T13:34:00.001-08:00

Please come visit with me at www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com
See you there

Author's Den

2009-10-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

First, regarding last night, I wasn't disappointed. I am delighted to report that I was one of a large number of Mayne Islanders who throughly enjoyed Al's play.
Now, regarding Author's Den, as you may have noticed I have not been posting your monthly pick since August. This doesn't mean that I haven't been writing. My pen has been busy. I have been working on the next book in the Maynely a Mystery series. The working title of this new book is Maynely Hidden. (Maynely Hidden is one of three books I am currently working on.) I have sent a novella to a publishing house and I have been entering writing contests. What I haven't been doing is adding new enters to my Author's Den site. I apologize for this. I'm not sure when this will change. I will keep you posted. Thank you for your interested in my writing activities. As for my knitting -- after all this is a knitting blog -- I have been gearing up for the craft shows. Wintercraft -- on Salt Spring Island -- will opening in early December: December 2nd. A friend and I will be marketing our handicrafts and books at a craft show on Vancouver Island. And, of course, I will be participating in a craft show on Mayne Island -- December 13th (I think). My needles are flying through ball after ball of yarn to prepare for these shows. I will write more about these craft shows as they draw nearer. (or at least that's what I plan to do...sometimes my plans fail...as you will know if you frequent this blog.)
All the best
Leanne
Weather here: sunny and warm
Happy Halloween

Life on Mayne Island: That's Al Folks!

2009-10-30T15:04:00.000-07:00

The first time I meet Alan was during rehearsal. I had volunteered to be in a play. Me - the one who can't remember if she has brushed her teeth. How was I going to remember my lines? I don't know.
At the time, I was told that Alan had been in over six Mayne Island Little Theatre plays. He was described as being very talented.
Was I intimidated?
Yup.
Then I meet him. Then he put me at ease. Then we enjoyed the victory of entertaining friends and family.
I wanted to introduce my new friend to Hubby. Finally I had an opportunity when I saw Alan on the ferry.
Alan walked by and I began an introduction... my introduction was cut short when the two men greeted each other like friends.
Alan is a personable, fun, Mayne Islander. And, oh, yes, he has Schizophrenia.
Shortly after seeing Alan's entertaining, informative one-man play, I shared with him the reception I receive after mentioning I have dyslexia.
"They begin to talk very slowly and use simple words," I told him.
He laughed.
Tonight I will join a large audience of Mayne Islanders (I'm hoping) as I watch - for the second time - Alan's one-man play: That's Al Folks!
An article regarding this show appears in the October issue of The MayneLiner. In that article May McKenzie is quoted as saying, "He said he wanted to do a show about 'me', about the way I am.'
Following the play, there will be a cafe style discussion on issues around mental health.
The play starts at 6:30 pm at the Ag Hall.
I hope to see you there tonight. I'll be the one laughing too loudly and clapping too often.
: ) Leanne

Back home...barely

2009-10-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

I made it home and it only cost me a couple of bucks, a pair of scissors and a large bottle of eyeglass cleaner. Don't ask. It was completely my fault. Some day I will learn how to pack. I'm still adjusting to BC life. I woke up this morning thinking I had over slept. My alarm clock reported it was 8:52 am. Well, as it turned out that was Manitoba time. It really is a good thing I didn't travel to some exotic "clim" like Utah. I would be adjusting until next Thursday.
Shall we skip this month's Author Den pick and carry on until the end of this month?
Let me know.
Rain clouds are going to clear up. Put on a happy face.
Leanne
For more news please log on to: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com

I'm on holidays

2009-09-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

I'm spending a month in sunny Manitoba. While here I will be visiting family and friends. My Internet access will be ifie so I'm afraid I will have to put my Author's Den pick of the month on hold until I get back.
However, I invite you to log to Maynely a Mystery's web site (www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com) for some exciting news.
Stay cool, dress warm
Leanne

Yes, I am knitting

2009-09-18T10:33:00.001-07:00

In four days I will be traveling east from Mayne Island, British Columbia to Winnipeg, Manitoba. I just looked at Winnipeg's 14 day weather forecast. Things start out well. However, then things change violently. Below seasonal norms, those words bring a chill to my heart. So what does a knitter do? Faced with such predictions, what do we do?...
Why knit, of course. Right now on one pair of needles I have navy yarn. I am slowly transforming this yarn into a sleeve. I have finished the body of my "Ribbing Exploration" cardigan. I am hoping that some kind knitting ezine or magazine will buy this design. ...so enough said.
On another set of needles, bamboo needles, I have white yarn. This yarn is slowly shaping into a toque.
Wby white?
Well, a friend recently gave me a beautiful, warm extra long scarf and white is the only colour in my stash that would match it.
Four days to finish these projects. My wrists are sore but I solider on... Please wish me luck.
Dress warm...stay cool.
Leanne

2009-08-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

Each month I report on my most popular Author's den writing and feature that piece here. The piece is chosen by you.
How is it chosen?
Well, I count the number of times you logged on to read it. The piece that receives the most hits is the piece that is featured. This month that piece was Mother, May I. I read it, on Mayne Island, during opening night of the Mom's show. It is currently on display at the Mayne Island reading centre ("library"). And...drum roll, please...here it is...

I offer this a poem, a chant, a prayer...

Mother, May I

Mother Mary

Mother Goddess

Mother, may you

***

Create me, hold me, transform me

From virgin to mother to crone

***

Blessed Mother

Mother Creator

Mother, may I

***

Create, hold, transform

From virgin to mother to crone

***

The divine love

The power of three

2009-08-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

FRIENDS

by Phil HIndmarch

I have friends in town, friends abroad,

Friends I see most days,

Friends I see occasionally,

Friends with eccentric ways.

I have friends who sometimes use me,

Friends who never fail,

Friends I truly do admire,

Some friends belong in jail!

Some friends are rich, some are poor,

Some are worn with care,

Some live the life of Riley,

For some the cupboard’s bare.

I have friends who love me dearly

(Might they extend a loan?)

Friends who rarely call me,

Friends who won’t get off the phone.

I have friends who think I’m smart,

Friends who think I’m dumb,

Friends who like my verses,

For some they’re just ho-hum.

But my friends I deeply treasure,

Through good times and in strife.

Stalwart or fair weather,

Friends are the spice of life.

www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com

2009-08-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

You really should join me at www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com
I am enjoying my visit with Mayne Island's summer resident -- Phil Hindmarch. Phil has crafted many a fine poem and he is generously sharing some with us. Enjoy.

Readers' Choice

2009-07-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

Each month I report on my most popular addition to my Authors' Den site. This month's most popular piece of writing, as chosen by you, was my YouTube book reading.
Check it out here: www.youtube.com/maynelyamystery

A silent protest

2009-07-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

Recently, across from the Miners Bay mall and in front of the library trees were cut down and blackberry bushes were ripped out of the ground. Now when we sit with our coffee we can see the sea.
but at what cost?....
Silently a knitter has protested. She (he) declared that the cost is too great.
Last night, when I attended the Mayne Island Trincomali Community Art Council group show, I found this...

No, it is not my work.

The group show runs the entire month of July. View it during library hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 11 am to 3 pm.

*Please excuse me. In this post, I referred to the Mayne Island reading centre as the "library". It is a reading centre not a library - to be accurate. Although, some Mayne Islanders, like myself, affectionately refer to it as a library.

What's the difference?

Good question. I will see if I can find an answer.

Further, I did a google search...because as you know, you can learn everything you need to know on google...and learned the difference. This difference can be summed up in one word: librarian. The Mayne Island reading centre doesn't employ anyone with this title. Instead what you will find are people like myself. Volunteers who work one or two shifts a month. These shifts are two hour long. So please be kind to us: we aren't trained professionals but we do have big hearts. : )

Happy Canada Day

2009-07-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

Canada Day has dawned sunny and bright on the bonnie isle of Mayne. Later today, just before noon, we Mayne Islanders will meet at Dinner Bay Park. You are invited to join us there. We will proudly sing of our love for our island and for our Canada.
In the shelter, there will be a fund raiser for Rest Q Animal Sanctuary http://www.restqsanctuary.org/About.html

Last night I watched Paul Gross' Passchendaele http://www.passchendaelethemovie.com/

Learn about the words we will sing: http://www.pch.gc.ca/pgm/ceem-cced/symbl/anthem-eng.cfm#a0

Hug a Canadian
Leanne

This month's Authors' Den pick

2009-06-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

Do you remember when I use to report on my stories from Authors' Den?
No?
Well, what I did was this...
I posted stories on my authors' den web site: www.authorsden/leannedyck.com
You logged on to read what interested you.
There is a counter on that site and it recorded the number of unique visitors each piece received.
I then read these stats. I posted the story which received the most hits here.
It's been a long time since I did this.
On this site I posted the entire first chapter of Maynely a Mystery. It is not surprising, that this body of writing has received a lot of hits.
However, let's focus on the short story that received the most hits.
It was: A Crush.
I offer it for your reading pleasure.

When she looked at him, her heart melted. A simple greeting or a smile was all that was required to send her swooning. Her heart beat faster and still faster until it jumped from her chest to her throat. Her heart continued its journey as it flew out of her mouth and spun around three times in mid air finally landing back in her throat. Her face blushed bright red as she stuttered and stammered nonsensically. At night, she fell asleep arms wrapped tightly around what others saw as her pillow but what she knew was his chest. During the day between school and household tasks her lips smacked loudly against her palm as she practiced kissing him.
She met with other girls who shared her obsession. They discussed his broad shoulders, his deep blue eyes and his kissable lips.
"He's so cute!" They giggled.

(c) ldyck 2009

At 1 pm on Sunday, June 28th

2009-06-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

As a novelist, I firmly believe that pictures (sometimes) speak louder than words.

Mayne Island's drum group

Eloquent words from the creator

The honouring figure's beauty is revealed.

A fancy new web site for Mayne Island artists

2009-06-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

Check it out: www.artonmayne.com

Can you find me?

What is hidden will be revealed

2009-06-24T11:14:00.000-07:00

Be on Mayne Island on Sunday, June 28th at 1 pm.

Visit me at: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com

My trip to Salt Spring Island

2009-06-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

I spent an enjoyable weekend (Friday to Saturday) on beautiful Salt Spring Island.

ArtCraft opened with style and grace - a retrospective of potter Judy Weeden's beautiful work. Here are some fine examples...

And because after all this is a knitting blog, here is the knitting related offerings I have available at ArtCraft this year...

Sweaters for babies and children.

Kits for knitting sweaters for babies and toddlers.

Hats for babies.

On Salt Spring Island

2009-06-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

It will be a busy weekend on Salt Spring Island. ArtCraft (in Mahon Hall) is having its grand opening with an exhibit by a potter. Art Spring having an art show by 11 Salt Spring Island artisans.
Where will I be?
On Salt Spring Island, of course.
I will report back.
Have a happy weekend
Leanne

Maynely a Mystery events on Mayne Island

2009-06-18T08:40:00.001-07:00

Please log on to: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com for details.

The Honouring Figure

2009-06-17T15:31:00.000-07:00

For more information regarding the Honouring Figure, please read: http://www.mayneisland.com/honouringfigure.html

For a mystery solved, please read: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com

Happening on Mayne Island

2009-06-16T08:20:00.001-07:00

Mayne Islanders wait in eager anticipation for June 28th.

On that day, John Aitken, Mayne Island native craver, will erect his honouring figure. The large figure will welcome visitors to Mayne Island. The figure will honour the first peoples. It will be erected on Emma and Felix Jack Park.

Please join us on June 28th. It will be a fun day of celebration.

Please join me at the Maynely a Mystery blog (www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com) for a Maynely a Mystery sighting. Thank you.

ArtCraft is open

2009-06-12T08:08:00.001-07:00

The gentle breeze that blows over the gulf islands stirs our creative minds. The sun shines and we are inspired by the beauty that engulfs us. The rain falls and our creations grow. See the bounty of our labour. Visit ArtCraft gallery on Salt Spring Island. Today the seasonal gallery opens for another year. ArtCraft is housed in Mahon Hall on Rainbow Road.

Weaving together the diverse collection of talent that abounds on the gulf islands is no easy feat. And yet each year the ArtCraft staff accomplish simply this with style and grace. It is my honour to lend a hand. Volunteering allows me to watch the magical transformation.

These pictures were taken on Wednesday, June 10th as the hall was under going its transformation.

The book section sadly minus Maynely a Mystery. However, fear not Maynely a Mystery will arrive...soon. Until then I would be thrilled if you cornered a ArtCraft staff member to pre-order your copy. It would be wonderful if I arrived at the hall with an armful of books only to be told that they were all sold. ...a girl can dream. ...especially this girl.

This is a side room. It is full of colour, full of natural beauty.

If you are able, travel to Salt Spring Island and witness the magic of this gallery in person. It is well worth a visit.

Sneak a peek

2009-06-10T08:28:00.001-07:00

I hope you are enjoying reading chapter one of Maynely a Mystery. I have just added page 33. To read this novel, please log on to: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com

This new design will soon appear in a Canadian knitting magazine...

Can you guess which one?

a new Mayne Island web site

2009-06-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, in the mail, the MayneLiner arrived. I flipped through the pages. The magazine pluses with island news. A full page ad announced the birth of a new Mayne Island web site.
Check it out: www.mayne.ca.
Visit me. Maynely a Mystery is listed on the writers page. (Go figure)
Stay tuned for more Maynely a Mystery news.
Leanne
P.S. Would you like to see some knitting on this blog? Let me know -- email: leanne@oknitting.com

Look who came back

2009-06-03T18:18:00.001-07:00

as promised I have returned.
I was over on Salt Spring Island setting up for ArtCraft (a seasonal art and craft gallery in Mahon Hall). While there I visited some bookstores and I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will be seeing Maynely a Mystery in at least a few of them.
Which brings me to an interesting topic...if you would like to see Maynely a Mystery in your bookstore or if you own a bookstore and would like to sell Maynely a Mystery please email me: leanne@oknitting.com
Now please join me here: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com
I've added page 26 of Maynely a Mystery: Chapter one
Happy reading!

I'll proof the proof and you keep reading

2009-05-31T07:38:00.000-07:00

Exciting news!
I have received the...

proof.

I am pouring over it and hope to have everything (mistakes found and corrected) done and emailed to the printer today.

While I do that, please keep reading the first chapter. To access the Maynely a Mystery blog, please log on to: www.maynelyamystery.blogspot.com

Maynely a Mystery paperback update

2009-05-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

What did Burns' say about plans?
Well, the projected publication date for Maynely a Mystery was to be June 1st.
I'm waiting to receive the proof from the printer. It could come any time.
Well, not really any time because I live on a island. So unless the proof arrives by plane I will have to wait for the ferry. And as ferries only come at set periods during the day. Well, I'm sure you understand where I'm going with this.
So, anyway, like I was saying I'm looking forward to holding, pawing and gooking (is that a word. The spell check doesn't think so. But I do. Who's right? You decide) at the proof.
I'm so looking forward to this that I'm trying not to think about it. That's how excited I am about this occurrence.
Once I have the proof, I will search the text for flaws.
(Please don't do that with this post...there are undoubtedly many. I had a very skilled editor help me with the book. Right here, right now I'm on my own.)
This proofing the proof will -- I'm guessing -- take a couple of days.
Once done, I will give the printer the go-ahead.
Now, if this were May 19th I would be grinning. I would be content in the knowledge that everything was right on time.
However, this isn't May 19th. It is May24th. And so, instead of grinning, I'm writing this post to say that the new projected publication date is mid-June.
I'm sorry to disappoint you. I'm disappointed too.
But the sun will shine, the birds will sing and Maynely a Mystery will become a book.
And when that day comes you will be one of the first to know. I guarantee you that.
Keep the faith.
All the best
Leanne

The ebook is currently available.
To order, simply email: leanne@oknitting.com
I will send you a PayPal request for funds.
Once I receive payment, I will send you the Maynely a Mystery ebook.

Reading Maynely a Mystery

2009-05-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

Please join me at: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/
We are reading my new cozy mystery novel.
Enjoy,
Leanne

Writing retreat on Mayne Island

2009-05-19T10:10:00.000-07:00

I will be attending an exciting writing retreat on Saturday,June 27th. The retreat organizator, Terrill Welch, sent me the following information that I would like to share with you:
http://terrill.gaia.com:80/blog/2009/5/dont_lets_wait_for_the_muses
Please forward this message.
Thank you,
Leanne

How we celebrate

2009-05-18T10:46:00.001-07:00

May 16th is an important date on Mayne Island. It is the weekend of the testier Farmers' Market. It is a taste of things yet to come. However, not only that, it is also the weekend of the Green Man parade.
Everything starts at the Ag Hall grounds right after the Farmers' Market at 1 pm.

They begin to dance.

Then there is a parade were the Green Man leads us all to the Miners' Bay Park.

The May Queen is crowned.

The maypole is delivered

and erected.

Then we dance.

Now let's play a game. Let's play "Where's Leanne?"

Here she is...

Can you find her here?

How about here?

Where is she?

How about here?

On she dances, can you find her?

On and on, she dances in and out of view...

Ah, finally she rests and you catch her...

And the maypole is complete

And on they dance...

Now, I ask you, "Do you think we had fun?"

Read more about the Green Man: http://www.endicott-studio.com/gal/galgreen.html

Life on Mayne

2009-05-17T08:12:00.001-07:00

I made this with a few friends....

Find out how later when I have more time to post.

Maynely A Mystery now signed

2009-05-13T16:34:00.000-07:00

You will be pleased.

I improved the Maynely A Mystery ebook.

How?

I increased the font size and...

now its signed.

Check it out...

http://www.lulu.com/content/e-book/maynely-a-mystery-signed-copy/7151174

And we are continuing to read

http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/

Maynely A Mystery: chapter one, page five

2009-05-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

has been added to the Maynely A Mystery blog: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/

You can read the whole thing. All 13 chapters. Order your copy today.
Simply email: leanne@oknitting.com

About Maynely A Mystery
"You have a delightfully wry humour that comes up unexpectedly and a talent for observing the more interesting characters of the world...There is also much joy in your writing.

-reader's comment

Maynely A Mystery: chapter one, page four

2009-05-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

has been added to the Maynely A Mystery blog: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/

Maynely A Mystery: chapter one, page three

2009-05-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

has been added to the Maynely A Mystery blog: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/

Happy mother's day
Leanne

Page two of Maynely A Mystery

2009-05-09T10:12:00.000-07:00

Join me here: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/ for page two of Maynely A Mystery - my cozy mystery novel.

read Maynely A Mystery

2009-05-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

I invite you to join me here: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com/

I have begun to post the first chapter of my new novel Maynely A Mystery. I hope you enjoy your read.

And if you do, may I suggest that you order a copy. To do so, simply email me: leanne@oknitting.com

I would be delighted to email you an ebook.

Ebook price $10.

Please visit www.oknitting.com for more information.

April's pick from Author's Den

2009-05-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

With the excitment of Maynely A Mystery I forgot to post last month's pick.
What's "last month's pick" ? Who does the picking?
What I am referring to is my Author's Den site.
What I do is post a new piece of writing each month.
What you do is log on to my Author's Den web site: http://www.authorsden.com/visit/author.asp?authorid=73154 You read a poem, an article or a story that intrigues you. What the site does is keep a record of these visits. What I do is read these statistics. These statistics inform me of which piece of my writing received the most visits. Then I post that piece of writing here. This month's pick is a story (part of a story) entitled...

The Crush
When she looked at him, her heart melted. A simple greeting or a smile was all that was required to send her swooning. Her heart beat faster and still faster until it jumped from her chest to her throat. Her heart continued its journey as it flew out of her mouth and spun around three times in mid air finally landing back in her throat. Her face blushed bright red as she stuttered and stammered nonsensically. At night, she fell asleep arms wrapped tightly around what others saw as her pillow but what she knew was his chest. During the day between school and household tasks her lips smacked loudly against her palm as she practiced kissing him.
She met with other girls who shared her obsession. They discussed his broad shoulders, his deep blue eyes and his kissable lips.
"He's so cute!" They giggled.

Please stay tuned for more exciting news about Maynely A Mystery

Let there be book

2009-05-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Very exciting news!
Maynely A Mystery ebook is now available.
To order your copy, please visit: http://www.lulu.com/content/e-book/maynely-a-mystery/7003375
Please bookmark: http://maynelyamystery.blogspot.com
This is the Maynely A Mystery official site.
I plan all sorts of fun for this site.
Like what? you ask
Like...
-A page a day: Daily post of the first chapter.
That's right page by page I will share it all.
-Ragna's tour of Maynely Island
Who's Ragna? you ask
Read the book and you'll meet her.

a new book, a new pattern, a new day

2009-04-29T11:49:00.001-07:00

New book:
Minutes ago I sent Maynely A Mystery to my editor for the final proof.
What a wild ride writing this book has been.
I thought writing the book was the thing.
Well, it turns out that was only the very tip of the iceberg.
There is so much more involved.
Good thing I was passionate about the story. This love didn't die it only increased. And now I am completely smitten.
In a mere two days, keep your fingers crossed, you will be able to purchase the ebook.

New pattern:
I finally added this...

to www.oknitting.com 's homepage.
It is a quick, easy and fun first sweater.
Stitch pattern used: garter stitch.
The finger puppet is included in the pattern.

A new day:
Its sunny and warm here.
What's it like there.

All the best
Leanne

...without a camera

2009-04-23T16:19:00.000-07:00

Have you visited my web site lately?
www.oknitting.com
On the homepage you will see a picture that I plan to use on Maynely A Mystery's front cover.
Exciting!
Beside it you will see me in the Hummingbird Vest.
Not exciting. That picture has been up there for ever.
I do have a new pattern. I wanted to add a picture of it on my homepage but...
It was a glorious day. The sun shone. The birds sung. I found the prefect location for my photo shot.
This will be a great picture, I thought.
I tried to take the picture and...
unfortunately...
the batteries in my camera were dead.
We'll just have to be patient. Maybe tomorrow I will be able to add the photo. Let's keep our fingers crossed.
Take care,
Leanne

Maynely a Mystery: a progress report

2009-04-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

So much to report. Last Saturday April 11th, I attended a craft show to see if there was an interest in Maynely a Mystery. (Maynely a Mystery is my cozy mystery that will soon be published.)
What did I discover?
Enormous support. Everyone was so kind. I even sold some pre-orders.
Maynely a Mystery is currently with my editor.
I am currently look for printer.
Why am I self-publishing?
I want to explore the whole process of publishing a book. I want to nurture my baby and watch it grow. I have tons of ideas on how to market it. I know the venues (bookstores, markets, etc) that would be the best place to sell it. Knowing all this, I didn't even consider sending it to a publisher.
What printers am I considering?
Well, I plan to have Lulu produce the ebook.
For the paperback, I am considering Lulu, Island Blue Print in Victoria, BC or Alea on Mayne Island.
Today I stopped off at my local bookstore: Miners Bay Books. I discussed the book with Jennifer and to my delight she is interested in carrying the book in her store.
I am learning a lot about this publishing game and am excited by the process.
All the best,
Leanne
PS Learn more about Maynely a Mystery by logging on to www.oknitting.com

Attend a Mayne Island retreat

2009-04-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I received this email from a friend. I plan to attend. If you are interested in joining me please contact Terrill Welch

An email from Terrill...

I hope that your long weekend has met your expectations and today finds you vibrant and resilient! Yes? No? Either way, the following will intrigue your sense of curiosity, adventure and possibility.

With the next vision practice retreat registration deadline looming, I want to provide you with a bit more information about our guest co-facilitator...

Who is International Facilitator Sherrilene M. Collymore?

I am sure you have detected my enthusiasm to be co-facilitating with Sherrilene Collymore at the next vision practice retreat “Employ Your Natural Talents.” We will be exploring how we have everything we need right now to begin acting on our visions. There is no course we still need to take, no age we need to reach or financial wealth we need to gain. There is nothing we need to be waiting for.

But this is only partly why I am so excited about hosting Sherrilene here in Canada. Sherrilene exudes passion and joy for human capacity. She delights in getting to know people and believes in their innate goodness. People simply feel good in her presence.

To get to know Sherrilene better I have asked her some questions for you and posted our exchange on my blog at http://terrill.gaia.com/blog/2009/4/who_is_international_facilitator_sherrilene_m_collymore

Enjoy!

AND for full details about the vision practice retreat “Employ Your Natural Talents.” go to
http://terrill.gaia.com/blog/2009/4/employ_your_natural_talents

Participants must register in advance no later than this Friday, April 17, 2009
by calling Terrill at 250-539-5877 or emailing tawelch@shaw.ca
Space is limited to 10 participants.

Hope you can join us! And if you are unable to physically be here, you can join us in spirit, and celebrate the perfectness of being who we are right now in this moment.

Please feel free to share this information with others you think might be interested:)

Warm regards,

Terrill WelchExecutive Leadership Coach

Ambassador World Leadership Day CanadaMarch 20, 2009 http://worldleadershipdaycanada.ning.com

Terrill Welch - A Woman behind Women http://www.awomanbehindwomen.ca and http://terrill.gaia.com

Ethnic Knitting Exploration

2009-04-13T08:49:00.000-07:00

Donna, you and I share at least two things in common. Our mutual love of knitting and our need to write. As I am currently writing a mystery novel and as you have just finished publishing a book, I would like to talk with you about writing.

Me: From where do you draw your inspiration?

Donna: I'm inspired by everything -- by things I love, and things I hate, by things that make me laugh and things that piss me off. The only thing I don't find inspiring is boredom! As long as something is going on, I find ideas.

Me: What is your writing day like?

Donna: I have never been able to get into a fixed schedule. I usually go to write at a cafe for an hour a day, but sometimes I do other things while I'm at the cafe. I'm not a "write every day" kind of person. I write when I have something compelling that wants to come out, or when I have a deadline. I'm the same way with knitting. Sometimes I go months without writing or knitting much of anything. (Often when I'm not writing or knitting, I'm bingeing on reading.) It's very impulsive and not rigid at all. For years I got up at 5:30 or 6:00 and did some writing in the morning, maybe working on a project, or blogging, or writing "morning pages" in my private journal. But now I can't wake up early any more, I have trouble getting started before 8 or 9 o'clock. Now I write a lot in the afternoons and sometimes even in the evenings. It's frustrating because I really like organization and structure, but I'm slowly learning to go with the flow of my own energy levels and my own changing needs. I look at it as following my bliss. I'm interested in doing so many things, that I can't focus on one for any huge amounts of time. I found the book Refuse to Choose by Barbara Sher to be very helpful in coming to terms with my own scattered interests and in finding tools to help me feel more in control of my life and work.

Me: How do you write: pen and paper, computer?

Donna: Both. When I'm early on in a project, I make lots of notes and rough drafts on paper. I call this pre-writing. Sometimes I do this on the computer, but not usually. The process seems much more organic to me when I'm writing in a notebook. It's not until it gets into the computer that I actually consider what I've written a "first draft". Then it starts to be work. Before that, it's all fun and games!

Me: How did you first become published? Do you have words of advise for the would-be published?

Donna: I wrote in notebooks and worked as a technical and marketing writer for a decade before I was published. Then I had one article published in a technical magazine, then nothing for several more years. It never occurred to me to write about what I loved -- knitting -- so I just kept scribbling in the notebooks, practicing, learning how to write, and not being able to focus on anything or find my niche. Then a friend in my critique group, whom I'd met at a yarn shop, asked me "Hey, if you can write a book about how to install a hard drive, why can't you write a book about how to make a sweater?" and that just opened up a whole new world of opportunity to me!My advice? Write. The rest will come.After you've written for a good long while... Pitch. Don't get discouraged. Learn about the business. Act professional. Join a writer's group or attend a conference to network. There are so many books of advice to writers and they're all good. Buy one and read it. Then do what it says.

Me: Have you concerned self-publishing? Why or why not?

Donna: Not really. I used to work as a graphic designer and technical writer and I have all of the skills to create a book and get the files to the printer and so forth. But I have no desire to do all of that now. I love writing and I am more than happy to let professional designers, photographers, editors, and illustrators do the rest -- to collaborate with me -- on my books. Sometimes that means a degree of compromise but that is OK. I feel like my books are greatly improved by the contributions of all of these other people on the publishing team. Plus I know nothing about the distribution side of publishing and I don't really want to learn about that part of the business. And finally, I don't want to tie up my money in thousands of books sitting in my garage!

Me: Have you concerned publishing your books as E-books? Why or why not?

Donna: Working on it! Several of my titles are coming out in Kindle and Sony Reader formats, although I don't know exactly when. And the individual projects from the Ethnic Knitting series are being released (slowly over time) in PDF format. Personally, I like books with pages made of paper. But I can see the appeal of having ebooks on a small device that you can always have with you for reference. When my books finally come out on Kindle, I will be very tempted to buy one. (I think Amazon should give them free to authors, but what's the chance of that happening?)

Me: Please share tips and techniques for web-based marketing.

Donna: Oh, I have a whole handout on that topic. I've attached it as a PDF so you can post a link and people can download it.

Me: How do you organize a blog tour?

Donna: Another handout! It's a little old, but I still work this way when setting up my tours.Thanks for being part of the tour! Good luck on all of your own knitting and writing explorations!

Note: I have read the articles Donna mentioned. They are very helpful. If you would like to read them please request them by emailing: leanne@oknitting.com

I would, of course, like to have been able to post a link to them but was unable to do so. I simply lack the technical know-how. However, I am happy (and am capable of) forwarding them to everyone interested.

The knit stitch and the purl stitch variations

2009-04-13T08:39:00.001-07:00

Some of us knit with double point needles, some with circular, and some with straight.
Some of us knit by coiling the yarn around our index finger, some by drapping the yarn around the index and baby finger, and some drap the yarn around our neck or waist.
Some of us use the stitch pattern names "Seed Stitch" and "Moss Stitch" - some of us only use the stitch pattern name "Seed Stitch".
Some of us say "Cast off" - others say "Bind off".
Some of us say "double knitting yarn" - others "worsted weight"
Some of us use 4.50 mm needles - others of us use size 7.
These variations occur due to our geographical location or our ethnic background.
These variations make knitting a rich diverse community.
By exploring these differences, we grow as a knitters and as people.

Donna Druchunas' new book invites us to explore the Lithuanian, Irish and Icelandic knitting cultures.
I am thrilled that she choose to explore the Icelandic knitting culture. For you see, my Icelandic-Canadian grandmother taught me to knit. A couple of years ago, I was delighted to visit Iceland. I wrote a brief account of the trip and you may read it by logging on here: http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewarticle.asp?id=40142

Tomorrow I will be interviewing Donna about her new book. I hope you will log on to read it.

News about my novel

2009-04-09T15:27:00.000-07:00

To help with the publishing costs of my new novel, I welcome pre-orders
Interested?
Please read on…

Maynely A Mystery

Genre: Cozy mystery
Cozy mysteries de-emphasize sex, violence, and offensive language. The stories are rich with fascinating characters and charming settings.

Brief Synopsis: Olivia Weatherington was born in a nest of lies. The lies were spun to protect her. All she wants is the truth. Will she find it? What importance does Mayne Island play in this mystery?

Opening scene:
‘She stood in the pouring rain. He stopped and she climbed in.
When she opened the cab door, Hikaru Utada’s happy tunes spilled out of the car and tumbled onto Robson Street.
Robson Street was a shopping mecca. Sandwiched between Burrard and Jarvis, this section of Robson pulsed with the beat of capitalism. Sharing the street with avid shoppers were university students. For Robson Street was also the home of a University of British Columbia campus.
“Where to?” he asked.
“Point Grey,” she said pulling a book out of her leather backpack. It was a heavy, thick book and smelled of academia. If she was hoping to impress him by her destination she had failed. Point Grey may impress some but not Sam Berlin. He knew the neighbourhood well: expansive estates elbowing each other for space, for recognition, for importance: single-family castles on postal stamp-size properties.
Why was North America so obsessed with excess? Berlin wondered.
He knew his ilk – white, middle-aged, working class males – were supposed to strive for, be impressed with, acquisition, with wealth. Berlin wasn’t; what obsessed him was discovery but – not land, sea nor space. Nor, he was obsessed by the discovery of his inner self, his inner life. From boyhood on, he had had a recurring dream. He dreamed of Japan. As an adult, he had under-gone past life regression and it had confirmed that he had been a samurai. He filled his life with Japanese culture; he ate sushi, watched Anime, listened to Japanese musicians like Hikaru Utada and he studied Nihongo. It was a difficult language to learn. He sought out opportunities to practice.’

168 pages (approximately)

$20. paperback (shipping charges will be added to the cost of the book)

$10. ebook

If you would like to help me, and be one of the first to read my new novel, please email: leanne@oknitting.com
I would be delighted to add your name to the waiting list.

You may pay by PayPal or personal cheque.

Projected paperback publishing date: June 1st, 2009

Projected ebook publishing date: May 1st, 2009

Please forward this to a friend.
Thank you,
Leanne

Sending you some spring

2009-04-06T08:25:00.001-07:00

It has been such a cold, long winter that I crave spring. If you are like me, you will be delighted to see...

These beautiful flowers grow on the front of my house. They grace my house and cheer the world.

May you find sun to warm you,

Leanne

New knitting pattern from oknitting.com

2009-03-31T15:34:00.000-07:00

Have you got a name?
...because I have a new pattern.

Pictured here, you can see my business partner checking out the photo shot.
He suggested that I unfold the arms.
Not wanting a dispute, I complied.
And ...

____ is born.
I really do need a name for this design.
It will be the latest addition to a collection of fun, easy to knit baby sweaters. All have a pocket to carry a special friend. The instructions for knitting the finger puppet are included with the pattern for the sweater. The other patterns in the series are Honey Bunny, Puddin' Pie, Muffin and Pumpkin. Check them out, they're on this page: http://www.oknitting.com/patterns_children.htm

___ is the easiest pattern to work in the series. ___ is worked entirely in garter stitch. It features a square neck line, which is so easy to knit your needles will work it themselves.

This blog would be so much easier to write if I just had a name for my design...

Your help finding a suitable name is greatly appreciated.
My needles call,
Leanne

Happy Earth Day!

2009-03-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

Today I'm going to try to minimize my use of electricity. I will turn everything off for an hour but I want to do more. So, today I will engage in activities that don't require electricity. I'm writing this post on my EPC which is batteries powered. Occasionally it needs to be plugged in...but it won't be plugged in today.
It does require a change of mind set to conserve electricity. For example, I was just about to put a CD on my personal sound system and then I thought...wait...I can't.
What can I do: write, read, knit, hike, chat...and the list goes on...
All the best,
Leanne

Leanne Dyck on Author's Den

2009-03-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

At the end of each month, I am eager to see which of my writing you have chosen.
What you do is log on to my Author's Den web site:
http://www.authorsden.com/visit/author.asp?authorid=73154
You read a poem, an article or a story that intrigues you.
What the site does is keep a record of these visits.
What I do is read these statistics. These statistics inform me of which piece of my writing received the most visits. Then I post that piece of writing here. This month that piece of writing is my article on my trip to Iceland. It is advantageous that you should choose that piece of writing because it gives me an opportunity to announce an event that I'm looking forward to participating in.
As you may be aware, Donna Drucunas has published another book...
In the book she discusses Icelandic knitting. Donna is planning a blog tour for the book. I'm excited to announce that I will participating in this blog. My date is April 14th. Please mark your calendars.

And without further ado, I present Knitting in Iceland

My Icelandic-Canadian Grandma taught me to knit. The craft has been handed down in my family for generations. Traveling to Iceland is very expensive so my ancestors left never expecting to return. Most Icelandic emigrates left with few belongs as space on the ship was severely limited. I imagine one of the things my great grandmother brought with her were her knitting needles. It has taken my family 150 years to return but on September 4th, 2007 I did. Now that I am back home in Canada I would like to share my experiences with you.

Iceland has had a significant influence on knitting. Lopi yarn and the Icelandic sweater are fine examples of this influence. This is impressive, indeed, when you realize that these adaptations have come from such a tiny island: Iceland’s population is only 306,000.

Icelanders were introduced to knitting in the 16th century. Traditionally, both girls and boys were instructed in the craft. Their needles soared through many projects. Two examples I saw in the Textile Museum in Blonduos (www.simnet.is/textile) were a woollen undershirt and fisherman’s leggings. These leggings encased the pant leg from toe to upper thigh. The scratchy undershirt was worn next to the skin. My husband thought the itching would drive him crazy but had to agree it would keep him warm.

I saw an example of traditional Icelandic mitts while at the Icelandic Emigration Centre at Hofsos (http://www.hofsos.is) Traditional Icelandic mitts had two thumbs, one on either side of the fingers.

Why?

The design adaptation prolonged the life of the mitt. Icelanders knew that the first part of a mitt to wear out was the thumb. By knitting a second thumb, fishermen could go on working simply by turning the mitt around. Now that’s Icelandic ingenuity.

Upon a visit to the National Museum (http://www.natmus.is/english), I was surprised to discover that traditional Icelandic sweaters did not arrive on the fashion scene until the 1940s. A recent adaptation of the Icelandic sweater features detachable sleeves.

I spent most of my time visiting with relatives in Hofsos. Hofsos is a small town with a population of 170. This meant sacrificing big town charm for an opportunity to be with family. For most of our stay we had no car and the buses only run three times a week from Hofos. Not for me the opportunity to roam through yarn shop after yarn shop. Which would you choose: family or wool?

One day our host, my husband and I walked into Hofsos’ convenience store. There among the brown bread and hardfish I saw it six shelves of yarn. Our host and my husband left me to engage my senses. The information on the yarn bands appeared in Icelandic so I had to speculate as to the fiber content. I could tell by touch that the majority of the skeins were wool: “Lopi” and the like. Also present were acrylic and cotton blends. The experience left me intoxicated.

Eventually, we did visit larger towns, which meant more yarn and even knitting magazines, but unfortunately still no yarn shops. Although I am told they do exist in Iceland. In a Blonduos department store our host pointed out the book section. There among shelves upon shelves of magazines I saw them: knitting magazines. There were knitting magazines from Sweden, Britain and one from Iceland. I bought the Icelandic knitting magazine. Flipping through its’ pages I noticed large and small projects – much eye candy. The magazine is organized similar to a North American knitting magazine: glossy pictures in the front with black and white instructions in the back. I was surprised to see no schematics.

While in Hofsos, I had an interesting conversation with a graduate of the Icelandic school system, Rosa Tryvadottir. She informed me that the equivalent of the North American grade school only goes to grade ten in Iceland. Upon reaching this level of education students have the opportunity to enroll in the studies of their choice. Rosa elected to enroll in a school that offered needlecraft classes. She took quilting, embroidery and knitwear design. After two years of study she had the opportunity to choose one of these needlecrafts and further her study in university. She said that some of her friends had chosen knitwear design. Upon university graduation her friends had banded together to form an association that sold their knitwear designs – much like the Handknitting Association of Iceland (www.handknit.is)

While in Iceland I heard about Snorri Plus (http://www.snorri.is/snorri-plus.htm). Snorri Plus is a unique program offered to Vestur Islendingur . (“Vestur islendingur" is an expression used by Icelanders to describe Icelandic-Canadians and Icelandic-Americans. It means "Western Icelanders".) This program is much like the original Snorri program. However, were as Snorri participants are from 18 to 28 years old Snorri Plus attracts participants who are over the age of thirty. Snorri Plus participants spend fifteen days living and working (or hobbying) with their Icelandic relatives while they tour Iceland. What an opportunity for a knitwear designer or knitter!

http://olavia.etsy.com

2009-03-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

I have been toying with the idea of selling my hand knitting over the web. I have been toying with this idea for a while now.
Then...
A couple of weeks, my hubby was on the ferry. No surprise there - it's not a rare occurance.
A Mayner (someone from Mayne Island) made this comment to him, "Why isn't Leanne on Etsy?"
He asked, "What's Etsy?"
The explaination left me here: http://olavia.etsy.com
It's a humble beginning to what I hope will be a successful future. Please check it out.
All the best,
Leanne

I say worsted weight - you say double knitting

2009-03-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

I was asked recently, what type of yarn I recommend for my baby sweaters. http://www.oknitting.com/patterns_children.htm
Well, all of my baby sweaters require worsted weight yarn.
Now, if you live outside North America my saying that isn't really that helpful.
However, thanks to Jo (remember Jo of yesterday's post). You can go to this site http://www.knitting.stuff.freeuk.com/ConversionTables2.html
and things will be clearer.

Happy knitting,
Leanne

Meet Jo of Gracie's

2009-03-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

In my last blog entry I introduced you to Gracie's -- a beautiful knitting web site ( http://jolovesmick.web.officelive.com/default.aspx). Today, I would like to introduce you to Jo the proud owner of said site.

Me: How old were you when you learnt to knit?

Jo: I was about 8 years old and just knitted squares I think

Me: Who taught you knit?

Jo: My mum taught me to knit, she used to do school jumpers for us all and when she knitted I used to sit on the floor with little needles doing it.

Me: What was your first project?

Jo: My first project I remember was a little white lamb, it didn't come out exactly as the picture or as it was intended but I was proud of it!

Me: What was the most challenging project that you have tackled?

Jo: Most challenging project I have tackled was a jumper for my dad a few years ago, he is not a little guy, so one row used to take me ages.

Me: What was your favourite project?

Jo: My favourite project, I have 3 really and they were all the first cardigan I knitted each of my girls when they were born.

Me: Please tell us about Gracie's

Jo: Gracie's is named after my little girl Grace who has just turned a year old (that's her on the front page logo), I am not having anymore children so it seemed a good name. I sell patterns and things that I have made, its not mainly for profit but for the love of knitting, I suffer from depression and sometimes it helps to relax me and keep me sane just knitting in the evening when my girls have gone to bed, there is also a gallery of pictures of anything I make. I want Gracie's to grow as big as it can, if I don't make much money that's fine I just want it to be something with a part of me in it, something I can call my own, something I have made myself, something I can be proud of.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

I'm very pleased to announce that Olavia's hand knitting patterns (www.oknitting.com) are now available for sale on the Gracie web site ( http://jolovesmick.web.officelive.com/default.aspx). It's a beautiful site, please go have a look.

Leanne

Rest Q fund raiser

2009-03-12T12:15:00.001-07:00

The following article appeared in the Island Independent newspaper on March 6th. Sadly, the pictures did not. Much thanks to Robert Sabo Sipos for taking them.

Where were you the evening of February 14th?
If you weren't at the Ag hall on Mayne Island then you really missed out. All who attended had a grand time.
Ty Binfet, director of "Rest - Q Animal Sanctuary," kicked off the evening by thanking the audience for attending and the volunteers for participating. Then he spoke to us about the animals he cared for: the three-legged dogs and the 13 cats, to name but a few. "Rest - Q" provides a home for animals from near and far - for animals who come from neighbouring islands, provinces, and countries.

At the conclusion of his brief speech, Ty was given a cheque for $1, 200; the organizer of the fundraiser Nan Johnston presented it to him.

Weeks before Nan had privately confided to me that she hoped to raise $1,000. I thought she was dreaming - what do I know?

Then to thunderous applause, Bob Connolly joined Nan on stage. The singing group "Nan and Bob" is very popular on Mayne Island.

The duet wrapped the room in a warm blanket of nostalgia. They sang favourites from the 40s, 50s and 60s. Who could resist singing along...not me.

Carol Barker joined them on stage to tinkle the ivories on her keyboard.

Later during intermission, she played the harp while we munched delicious deserts. I tell you you, Mayne Island is one classy place.

Sam Israel played his classical guitar during the intermission as well.

Then I must admit I could no longer control myself. Nan drove me to song. I tried to entertain the audience with my rendition of "Hello, Dolly". Thankfully, Nan was there to stop me.

So, I stopped singing and read instead. I read two poems: one by Elizabeth Barrett Browning and one penned by yours truly.

You didn't know I was a poet? Well, neither did I.

Then Nan and Bob once again graced the stage with their melodious tunes.

Their hard work earned them a standing ovation.

So, I ask you, where will you be next year?

I'm sick

2009-03-10T12:24:00.001-07:00

I woke up today with a very sore throat. So I decided to stay in bed. I hate sleeping in late. Seldom do I engage in this activity. It is just so very boring and I get nothing done. It is such a beautiful sunny day (although the snow still covers the ground), I would love to be outside. However, when I left my bed, I realized that I may have a sore throat but my really problem is that I have an ear infection. And I have no one to blame but me. Last week was so busy that I left the house with wet hair. Wet hair = ear infection. Is this just an old fish wife's story? Or is it true? Tell me, tell me do.

All of this just to say, "I'm sorry for not reporting about the Rest - Q fund raiser."

That post is coming.
All the best,
Leanne

Please stand by

2009-03-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finding it very hard to even contemplate leaving the comfort of my home to walk the ten or so feet to my studio. What I would like to do is go back to bed and sleep until this is all over (actually, relief is at hand, this afternoon they are forecasting sun).
What I will do is this
1) take some photos of the snow
2)work on my novel (or novella...or whatever...)
3)do some knitting (I'm working on a baby sweater)
4)make some soup

Okay, about the weather

2009-03-09T08:37:00.001-07:00

Today, white stuff is falling from the sky. And I was so sure it was spring. Just a few days ago I was walking around without a jacket. Just a few days ago I bought some flowers. Flowers that I was planning to plant outside. Saturday I went to the local Home Hardware to find a suitable planter. I couldn't find one I wanted (I didn't know that I was that picky). As it turned out this was a good thing. All the pretty flowers are inside were they are nice and warm and still alive. Instead of outside were they would (could) die from exposure. Yesterday the sky was a beautiful shade of blue. Yesterday the sun shone. Today what I can see of the sky through the white flecks (which are growing bigger every minute) is gray. Today no sun shines.

Okay, I do know that I have no right to complain. I do know that I am very lucky to live in one of the only places in Canada were snow is a rare occurrence. I do know. Somehow knowing all this doesn't silence my rant.

Yesterday, I found the Independent Islander newspaper in my mailbox. Soon I will post my article (regarding the Rest-Q fund raiser) here. It will appear with tons of pictures.

Keep warm,
Leanne

Celebrating woman's day

2009-03-08T16:45:00.000-07:00

Where did I go?
What did I do?

I spent a half day at: http://www.awomanbehindwomen.ca/lacasa.htm
You can too (if you're a woman: ) ).
Check it out.

2009-03-07T08:23:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ka8XwpklIE
Tomorrow is International Woman's Day.
And here on Mayne Island we are celebrating. Oh, yes, sister, we are.
1 -3 pm on Luff Road
There will be singers singing, there will be writers reading.
What will you be doing? How will you celebrate?

I say, "cardigan"

2009-03-04T10:26:00.001-08:00

Fate says, "Nay"
This blog entry was to showcase my brilliance. Sadly, we all know what happens when we get too cocky. That's when fate steps in.
Here is my sad tale...
Meet mohair the star of this post.

It is lovely stuff. It knits up soft and warm. However, if you are a knitter capable of error -- like yours truly. It also knitters up frustratingly.
Notice, if you will, the hairs. Once knit they glue together and make it impossible to tink or unknit or frog or tear back. I have been known to become so angry that I have attacked knit mohair with scissors. ...not something I'm proud of...but I'm only human.
So, aiming for an easier more enjoyable knit I sought a solution.
I found one.
I knit a strand of mohair and a strand of acrylic.
Yes, that's right I said it. I said, "acrylic".
In these days of environmental enlightenment acrylic has become an ugly word.
Well, to most but not to me. I still knit with acrylic.
Why?
Well, because I know and value it. I know that I can throw an acrylic sweater into the wash and rest easy. I know that an acrylic sweater will not shrink.
Yes, this is the biggest concern for me.
Yes, I am too lazy to wash a sweater by hand.
No, there is no laundromat on Mayne Island.
I do knit with acrylic. I have knit with acrylic blends.
I have knit with natural fibres. I have knit scarves, hats and vests. Things that don't require weakly trips to the washer.
Okay, for those who are still with me, let's continue with this tale.
So, there I am with one strand of mohair (actually, to be truthful, a mohair blend) and one strand of acrylic.
It was an enjoyable, fast knit.
I knit without a pattern. I knit without setting pen to paper. I simply knit.
The result....

Please notice, that the width of the sleeve is much smaller than the width of the armhole. Did you notice it?
Oh, I know you did. I can hear you laughing.
I can hear you laughing and I agree it is funny. Now I can agree. Then I couldn't.
Lesson learned -- I hope -- I will now take some notes.
I will record the number of stitches to the inch. I will record the width of my armhole.
I will.

Moving on...
How do I sew seams?
I begin my anchoring the seam on both ends.

I continue sewing an invisible seam.

The result...

After the seams, I now weave in ends.

I found it easier to weave in the acrylic yarn and the mohair separately.

Now, you may ask, "What happened? Do you have a cardigan?"

Well, sadly, the answer is, "No!"

You see, I didn't have sufficient yarn.

So, my cardigan became...

a vest.

I will wear my vest to the World Day of Prayer service. The service will be held on March 6th. On Mayne Island the service will be held at Saint Mary Magdalene Parish Church. The service will start at 2 pm. This year, the service was written by the woman of Pupua New Guinea

The post I promised is on its way

2009-03-04T09:41:00.000-08:00

I apologize. This morning I didn't stick to my plan. Instead I did some research for the novel (novella) I'm working on. Interesting stuff.

I found a poem that I remember first encountering as a teenager. It shaped my young mind.

First They Came for the Jews by Pastor Niemoller

First they came for the Jews
and I did not speak out
because I was not a Jew

Then they came for the Communists
and I did not speak out
because I was not a Communist

Then they came for the trade unionists
and I did not speak out
because I was not a trade unionist

Then they came for me and
there was no one left to
speak out.

I found the poem after doing some research on the Patriot Act. In that light, the poem spoke loudly to me.

Love and acceptance will always finally win out ...this I believe.

Happy ending

2009-03-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

My concerns about the weather yesterday were all for not. The wind blew without creating chaos. No problems with the electricity, phone or Internet. Hubby said that it was a little hard to read on the ferry due to the turbulence but other than that the weather caused no problems.

This morning it is pouring rain. The birds are singing happily. They welcome the rain. The radio has just informed me that the afternoon will be clear.

I have just finished another sweater. I found some mohair in my stash. However, knitting the mohair by its self was causing me problems. The fine hairs made tearing back very hard.

Once the weather clears I am planning to take a series of pictures of my new cardigan. I will show you how I solved the above problem as well as how I assemble a cardigan. I will post these pictures as soon as I can. Please stay logged on.

Weather report

2009-03-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

Well, its a new month. On Mayne Island, March means wind and that spring has finally found us. Although, we could still get a few flakes of snow. The wind means that ferry travel becomes even more complicated. The ferry is the only means off Mayne Island - unless of course you have your own boat or you can afford to travel by plane.
Today, as I walked with hubby to the ferry (for exercise - I stay on Mayne), I saw two long lines of cars wait to take their chances on the rocking and rolling sea. I stopped to talk with a friend and apparently the wind had been predicted. However, it was early. The wind was to start at 8 am. I spoke with her shortly before 7:30 am.
Wind, big deal, eh?
Well, on a small island it can be a big deal. It can mean that our fragile tie to the world is severed. We could kiss our electricity, our phone and our Internet good-bye. It can also mean that the ferry refuses to run. Please keep your fingers crossed for me. I would like to have Hubby home tonight.
Other than that, things are grand. No complaints.
Until later, all the best,
Leanne

A story

2009-02-27T14:51:00.000-08:00

Each month I post on this blog the story (from my Author's Den web site) that received the most hits. This month it was...drum roll...please...

Different Worlds

My Icelandic-Canadian grandparents differed both in physique and in personality. My amma (grandmother) was a dainty slip of a woman. She sang like a meadowlark and spoke in a whisper. She was a mistress of domesticity. Her talents were limitless: her thumb was green, her house immaculate, her meals mouth-watering, and she could craft straw into gold.

My afi (grandfather) was a big bear of a man. He thundered, he roared, but it was all in jest. He was gregarious, by nature.

Afi loved to belt out Icelandic folk songs. In one these songs, I heard him repeat a familiar name. "Olafur," he sang. That was Afi's name. Was he singing his song? I wondered.

"Can you translate the song for me, Afi?" I asked.

"I'm not sure your amma would approve elskan (love)," he said. Amma had forbidden Afi to share Icelandic folklore with me. For you see, my creative mind used his stories to torment me.

"Please, Afi, Amma went to town and she won't back for a while," I begged. I continued to beg until he reluctantly gave in.

"Olafur's song has been passed down from voice to voice in our family for generations," Afi seated in his rocking chair rocked to the beat of his words, "Olafur charmed all women. They couldn't resist him. They dreamed about him. Many people tried to warn Olafur to be careful. They told him he was just too handsome and that that was dangerous. Stubbornly, Olafur refused to heed their warnings. He continued to hike over the Icelandic countryside."

"Even into the land of the huldufok?" I asked. Afi had told me about the huldufok. They were a race of invisible people. Occasionally huldufok would fall in love with humans and lure them into their world.

"Yes, elsken, even into huldufolk land," he confirmed.

"Why was he so foolish?" I asked.

"He had to. He was a shepherd, he had to follow his sheep," Afi told me. "One day, when Olafur was hiking he passed by a waterfall. Through the mist of the falls, he saw a fair maiden. She was standing there, washing as the water coursed over he naked body. Olafur feasted his eyes. She was so beautiful that he fell under her spell. Well, it wasn't long before the maiden realized she had an audience. She was pleased, for you see she was a huldufolk. She and her sisters had set the trap for Olafur."

"Did they catch him?" I asked.

"Yes," Afi said.

"Did Olafur ever escape?" I asked.

"No, and I hope he never does," Afi's reply puzzled me.

So deep in thought was I that I didn't hear the back door open.

"Amma's home," Afi announced and we went to greet her. Afi kissed her. That magical kiss transformed Amma. Through it, her identity was finally revealed. She was that beautiful huldufolk lady.

(c)ldyck '09

Neglected but not forgotten

2009-02-26T11:13:00.000-08:00

Please accept my apologizes for writing so seldom this month. Especially, please accept my apologizes for not reporting about the fund raiser. It was a success. A friend took tons of pictures. And I do plan to post a review. However, I did submit a review about the eveing to the Independent Islander. I wanted to be respectful to them and so I'm waiting for my review to appear in the paper before I post a review here. However, after that does occur (which should be in the next issue) I will post it here. The bonus for you is tons more pictures. So please stay log on for that. I have also been informed that a review will be included in the MayneLiner (www.mayneliner.com). I haven't written this review. So it will be a nice surprise for all of us.

The editor of the Independent Islander has told me that she has a surprise for me. She told me no details beyond telling me to read page 6 of issue 10. I love surprises.

In other news...knitting news...I'm working on another design for Knit Together. I will tell you more when I can.

Still more knitting news...Donna Druchunas' new book Ethnic Knitting Exploration is now available. In the book, Donna explores Lithuanian, Irish and Icelandic knitting. Please visit Donna's blog: www.sheeptoshawl.com/blog and scroll down to Feb 25th - to learn more. I'm thrilled to be included in the blog tour for this new book.

Tomorrow please log on for this month's story.
All the best,
Leanne

More books

2009-02-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

I devote an hour a day to reading. Its a hour for my muse and I think its a good investment. During the hour I read from three books: a book for spiritual development, a book for educational development, and a work of fiction.

Recently, having successful finished a work of fiction I had the luxury of replacing it. The book I choose was Mercy Among the Children by David Adams Richards. He is a Canadian author and this is a Canadian book. So far so good.

I am very cruel to books. If they don't capture my attention after ten pages (or sometimes less) I abandon them. This book has passed the test.

I also finished the book for educational development. The new book is The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron.

I have tried to read this book before. I have failed. I think the problem was the time - its not a night time read. I also think I wasn't ready for it. I wasn't committed.

Cameron maintains that you must be willing to make a commitment to developing your creativity if you wish her techniques to work for you. I'm on page 34 and have already hit a road block.

The problem is with her techniques. She maintains that the reader must commit to an artist date.

What is an artist date?

Basically, it is a weekly date with yourself. The goal of the date is to do something (anything) that will feed your muse.

No problem here, I read for an hour every day. My muse is growing fat on this hour.

The problems lies in the other technique. The problem lies in what Cameron describes as the morning papers.

What are the morning papers?

Well, basically, you must write three pages each day. Three pages on whatever you want to write about as long as you write three pages.

Writing three page before I start to work on my blog, my novel, or any other piece of writing...crazy!

Do I really need another writing committment right now, I asked myself.

No, was the response.

So, what to do? Should I toss the book aside? Or should I waste my time writing these morning papers?

I tried. I tried on February 16th - I wrote a page. I tried on February 17th - I four lines. I didn't have time for anything on the 18th. Today, today I finished my three pages.

Tomorrow, I may fall off the wagon again. On February 19th, I may write three words or more or less. All I know is that today I wrote three pages and I feel great.

Write on,
Leanne

Sometimes things just happen

2009-02-17T10:17:00.001-08:00

I do plan. I even sketch.
However, sometimes the sweater that falls off my needles bares no resemblance to my plan. It doesn't look like my sketch.
No, sometimes my muse takes complete control and what is created is much better than anything I could even imagine.
Case in point...
I have been out and about in this sweater. Everywhere I go, the sweater receives rave reviews. They like the trim of variegated yarn. They like the unexpected patch of variegated at the left front of the sweater. They like the fit the rib stitch ensures. They like the sweater.
I, of course, take full credit. I hope my muse forgives me.

New Love

2009-02-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is Valentine's day. It is also the night of the Rest-Q fund raiser. I'm a little nervous and a lot excited. Please keep your fingers crossed for me and for everything to go well. I greatly appreciate it. (Please stroll down to my Feb 10th post for more details regarding this event.)

Now a story...

Most of my relationships were short lived. Lasting only one month or less - usually less. I had no experience celebrating Valentine's day while in a relationship.

Then, I began dating a man in January and we were still dating in February.

This situation put me in a dilemma: what do I do for Valentine's day?

We've only been dating for a month - its too soon to give him a gift. I don't want to scare him off, I reasoned.

A friend disagreed, you have to do something. He'll be excepting it, this friend told me.

I went to a card shop and poured through the cards. Everything seemed too romantic, too committed. I would have to write the card myself, I thought.

Next problem: what do I buy him?

If I spent a lot of money on him that said something about the relationship. If I spent less that said something else.

I know I'll knit him something, I thought.

Well, it was two days before Valentine's day. If I was going to knit him something I would have to knit quick and it would have to be something small.

I know I'll knit him a scarf.

I had been known to crank out scarves quickly.

Secretly I was able to discover what type of scarves he liked. He told me he liked the rib stitch and very long scarves.

How long?

Well, at least six feet.

Six feet...six feet...how could I knit a six foot long scarf in two days?

I knit as fast as I could as long as I could and the scarf measured four feet, five feet, six feet. I made it.

I was so excited. I slipped my card between the folds of the scarf and wrapped it in red tissue paper.

He picked me up. We arrived at his apartment. He had prepared a candlelight dinner. There sitting beside my plate was a single red rose and a cute, tiny little teddy bear.

He had cooked...he had shopped...he had gone to all that trouble for me? My heart beat fast and I melted.

What happened to that boyfriend?

Well, I married him.

He was wearing the scarf I knit when he proposed.

In the paper

2009-02-10T11:53:00.001-08:00

The Island Independent is a new Southern Gulf Island paper.
How new?
It just published its eighth issue.
On page 5 of that issue is an article entitled: Mayne animal benefit
The article is about the Valentine's evening fundraiser and I'm the author.
Would you like to read it?
Well, here it is...

Nestled in the heart of Mayne Island is "Rest _ Q Animal Sanctuary."
The sanctuary provides a home for 130 animals. The animals that were once abandoned, neglected and abused now oink, purr, quack, snort and bark happily in their forever home.
Providing such sadly necessary care is expensive.
From where does this funding come?
Well, as their web site, www.restqsanctuary.org, says, "Rest Q is a registered charity entirely funded by private donations."'
Nan Johnston and Bob Connolly of the singing group "Nan and Bob" wanted to help and where inspired to act. They have enlisted the aide of a few friends and are planning a fund raiser. The evening of Saturday, February 14th will be full of Broadway music, poetry, and delicious desserts. All involved have donated their time. All proceeds will be donated to "Rest - Q Animal Sanctuary." Tickets are $15 and they are going fast. The Ag Hall doors open at 7:30 pm. We invite you to come, enjoy, eat and put a little love in your heart.
"Rest - Q Animal Sanctuary" director, Ty Binfet will be available to answer your questions and receive your donations during the event.

Stand by me

2009-02-06T15:42:00.000-08:00

Fill your life with song and you will never be alone.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us-TVg40ExM

Rock on
The sun is shining on sunny Mayne Island
I'm going for a walk
Have a great weekend
Leanne

Walking in the moonlight

2009-02-05T12:34:00.000-08:00

Last night I had the coolest experience.
The time was nine pm and I went out to meet Hubby's ferry.
There are a total of approximately eight street lights on Mayne Island. So I always take a flashlight when I go walking at night.
Usually at night there are very few cars and no people on the road I walk down.
Sometimes I turn off the flashlight while I walk. When I do that I'm overcome by an other worldly feeling. Its as if I have become a disembodied head. I exist without my body.
Last night I turned off the flashlight.
Last night the moon was high in the sky.
Last night moonlight filled the island.
Looking down I could see my white running shoes glowing in the light.
Looking up I could see a large ring around the moon.
The whole experience was so peaceful, so memoriable.
It was a simple experience but one I wish to hold on to.
Today, as I recall that experience, I'm knitting along to...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkkM7K6smQA&feature=related

Happy Groundhog Day

2009-02-02T08:28:00.000-08:00

He saw his shadow and so we have six more weeks of winter. And I will need everyday as I attempt to prepare for Summer.

So just where have I been all day?

2009-01-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

Um, well, I went to my writers' group this morning : )
I'm so fortunate to have such a supportive, productive writers' group.
I went to practice for my latest gig. : )
The "gig" is a fundraiser for Mayne Island's Rest -Q Animal Sanctuary.
Rest -Q provides a loving home for 130 abused, neglected and abandoned animals. They now oink, purr, quack, snort, bark in their forever home.
The fundraiser (gig) is planned for the evening of February 14th. The evening will be full of Broadway music, poetry and delicious desserts.
Sound like fun?
I know. So many thought the same that there are no tickets left.
Then I went to the health clinic. : (
I had a silver in bedded in my thumb.
It is now out. The doctor was gentle. I felt safe in her capable hands. ...but now I'm in pain. ...okay, I don't do pain well.

"What's this about "litter" ?" you ask

Please allow me to explain.
On my Author's Den web site, http://www.authorsden.com/leannedyck ,I have collection of stories, a few articles, and even some poems. Each month I add more.
I invite you to log on and read what interests you.
The web site automatically calculates a tally of the pieces you read. At the end of each month I post your favourite piece. This month you choose...
drum roll, please

A Critical Eye

Her eyes were cold, hard, steel.

"You're so naive. You think the world loves you. You may fool some of them. You may. But you can't fool me. They don't see you like I do. They don't see your blemishes but I see them, I do. You're a weak, empty headed, school-girl seeking approval. Who cares what they think? What do you think? That's what matters. Focus on that. Have a little back bone. Show some courage. You have to think you are someone to be someone. Believe in yourself. Believe."

Morning ritual complete she turned from the mirror.

Happy Friday

2009-01-30T09:27:00.001-08:00

Please stay tuned for the pick of the litter.

...for want of something better to say or do

2009-01-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

Hubby found this web site: www.lolcats.com
(please cut and paste. I'm on my ePC and for some reason it doesn't link as nicely as my desk top.)
If you're a cat person and if you like to laugh check it out.

All is well here. Although, no sun : (

The little engine that could

2009-01-28T10:38:00.001-08:00

First a weather review, the snow has left and the sun shines. It is a beautiful day.

Now a tale...

I had a happy childhood. I remember sun soaked days of outside play. Yet, I know my life wasn't as wonderful as memory would have me believe. I know there were times when I was disappointed, I know there were times when I cried. And I know there were times when I was frustrated.

I know this because I have sweet memories of my Dad coming to my aide over and over again. In one memory, I remember being in tears. I was crying over my inability to do one thing or another. As often happened, my Dad attempted to console me. He heard my frustration. He validated it. Then he told me the story of the little engine that could. He said that everyone doubted that the little engine could climb that mountain. The mountain was so big and the little engine was so small. All wanted the little engine to succeed. Yet doubt remained. Then he smiled and said, "but he believed in himself and was successful. Try. That's all we ask. Try. We believe in you. We want you succeed. Try. You don't know what you can accomplish. You will never know unless you try."

Its a lesson I try to hold on to. Its a memory that has helped me succeed where I thought I would fail.

A few months ago, I shared my novella with friends.

Their reply, "Its good but its not finished."

I was upset. How could they tell me that? Didn't they know how much I had tried? Didn't they know how much work I had put into it?

Still their message remained, "its not finished."

When I shared it with them it was approximately 18, 000 words in length. I thought it was finished. However, the message remained so I went back to work.

The words flowed and continue to flow.

Now it is 20, 383 words. Now I know its not done. Now I wonder if it will it be a novella or a novel. A novella is from 17, 500 to 45, 000 words. A novel is longer.

Now my mantra is: "I think I can, I think I can finish the story."

A light dusting

2009-01-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

The snow did come and in fact is still coming. When I woke this morning I noticed that the road had a light dusting. At the time the falling snow was too fine to notice. Since then the snowflakes have increased and decreased in size. However, they still insist in their flight. Although, Hubby thinks they do want to stay in the air. : ) You have to laugh or you will cry.

Please go here http://de-conversion.com/2009/01/27/my-journey-into-and-later-out-of-christianity-introduction/ and read a very interesting blog post. I'll wait here.

Reading it has inspired me to write this...

I have tried to keep my religion a secret. Like a secret agent I loomed among friends and strangers alike with my mouth shut. As a teenager, I had learned that to proclaim my Sunday activities wasn't "cool" and in fact would draw ridicule. So I remained mute but I continued to attend.

It has only been recently that I have timidly begun to reveal my true Christian identity. I have tried to be respectful of my audience. My intention is not to convert or even to spread the good news but simply to be true to my own heart.

I don't initiate these conversations. I simply reply.

Sometimes my comments have been meet by heavy signs. This reaction prompts me to hide once again in the shadows.

However, to my surprise and delight, mostly my comments have been meet with understanding. Who I am, who I really am was only a secret to myself it seems.

Design...rethink

2009-01-26T10:04:00.000-08:00

Its a crisp day here on the sunny isle of Mayne. The radio warns that snow will return. And in further news...I missed the early morning ferry and have troubles of another nature...
What I want to do is have a double knit button band on my cardigan. I thought I could knit the band and the front at the same time.
So I tried...
Double knit band with 4 x 4 ribbing. It didn't work.
Of course, I thought, the double knit band needs something more stable than ribbing.
So I tried...

Double knit band with two yarns worked in Stockinette stitch.
As you can see it didn't work either. The double knit is just too heavy.
Do I have another idea, you ask.
Why yes, I say. I will have to knit the button band and the cardigan fronts separately.
The key will be to measure and measure carefully.
Wish me luck.

Reading time

2009-01-24T09:27:00.000-08:00

When I lived in the city, when I commuted to work I brought a book with me. On lunch breaks and while I commuted I read. I so enjoyed my read.

Now I don't live in the city, now my work is ever-present so I have scheduled reading time into my day. Reading time was once scheduled for bedtime. However, this didn't work. I was just too tired. Hubby is a night owl, so by the time I went to bed I hit the pillow, my eyes closed and I was asleep. I had no time to read. Now reading time is at three o'clock and lasts for an hour. By three I have put in a good day of work and am ready for a break. And besides I consider this reading time as part of my work.

Right now I'm reading three books. I choose an uplifting book, a book that educates and a work of fiction. I'm mainly (although, I have occasionally strayed from this path) a fiction writer so inclusion of a work of fiction makes sense. Currently, I'm reading Skinny Legs and All by Tom Robbins. This is my second reading of this book. The first time was about ten years ago. I don't, as a rule, re-read books. The other exception was Ethan From. I first encountered Ethan From while in high school.

The uplifting book that I'm reading is Eckhart Tolle's A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose. It is easy to pooh-pooh books like this. I've even done it myself.
"Oh, the things you'll learn it that book you've only heard one hundred times before," we say.
This is true but how many times do you need to read something in order for it to stick. Many religions are built on one uplifting book: the Holy Bible, the Koran, the Torah. Worship involves the reading and re-reading of one book Sunday (or Saturday) after Sunday.
And it may be the same lessons that you are learning but it may take years to learn them. It may take someone phrasing the lesson in certain way to enable you to finally learn.
As well, there are negative, destructive books out there. Books that can and do fill your mind with junk. I'm not calling for censorship. I'm calling for balance.

The educational book that I'm reading is Nancy Lamb's The Art and Craft of Storytelling: A Comprehensive Guide to Classic Writing Techniques. This is a well-crafted, informative book that I believe every writer would benefit from reading. I have learned so much. I hope the lessons stick. I don't like marking books up with highlighters but I'm gravely tempted to commit this art to this book. I want so badly to retain the information. Taking notes rarely works for me. I have a bad habit of not reading them. However, highlighting does seem to. You see I don't like marking up books but I am capable of doing so. Not only am I capable of using highlighters but I'm also capable of writing in the margins. Please forgive me.

So that's when, where and why I read.

Happy reading,
Leanne

A day full of opportunities

2009-01-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up to a sunny day.

Its a day of errands. Unfortunately, Sammy - one of my cats - has to go to the vet. There is something wrong. We need to find out what. Then I have to go to Coastal Creations. They have now closed permanently. Its sad news. Coastal Creations was very good for me - business wise. I have yet to find a suitable venue on Mayne Island to replace it. ...but I do have faith that I will. Today I must pick up my remaining inventory and cheque.

After my errands, my day is full of opportunities. I may work on my front yard for a while. It is in need of some serious TLC. That's the thing about Mayne Island's long growing season. The weeds can take full advance of it.

Then I may work on my novella. Strange the more I write - the more I have to write. One begins to wonder how long this story really is?

Then I may work on my cardigan. The back and sleeves are now done. I have cast on for the front but I may frog and cast on again for the fifth time.

Right now, though, I need to make breakfast. What shall I have? Will it be cereal or eggs?

Yes, indeed, my day is just jammed packed full of opportunities.

Happy Friday
Leanne

A gift to enjoy

2009-01-22T08:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I enjoyed the Christmas present that Hubby gave me this year.

What was that gift, you ask.

Before I tell you that, let me tell you this...
A couple of years ago, Hubby's body began to retaliate against years of ill treatment. Not only was there pain but there was also lack of mobility. Thankfully I knew of a talented, young massage therapist who lived and worked on the island. Thankfully I encountered her at a meeting. Thankfully I had an opportunity to set an appointment for Hubby. I told her that I wasn't too sure how "into" this Hubby would be. He is definitely not a horse you can led to water. Fortunately, though I had waited just long enough and he was willing to try anything to improve his situation. So he went, he enjoyed, and his situation improved. He is now Dove's walking, talking billboard.

This Christmas Hubby bought me a gift certificate for a massage with...you guessed it...the exact same therapist. The irony wasn't lost on Dove.

He gave me a gift certificate for a massage...
Me the person who likes at least four feet of personal space
Me the person who tenses when touched

I do recall attempting to receive massages in the past. It usually result with the masseuse suggesting rather loudly that I "Just relax". Their frustration clearly heard by all. However, Hubby pointed out that Dove wasn't a masseuse. She was a massage therapist.

Regardless, needless to say, I was apprehensive about accepting the gift. She was still going to come closer to me that four feet. She was still going to touch me.

Baring all that in mind, what made me change my mind? You may ask...and I will tell you.

-I knew and trusted Dove
-I had fallen over the holidays...very hard...on my back. I was still in pain.
-I thought it might help my IBS...anything that even hints of helping my IBS I'm for. (Well, within reason)

So, yesterday I arrived for my appointment. I was still apprehensive but immediately Dove reduced my stress. I crawled up on the table...still apprehensive. Once again Dove assured me that I was in charge. That I could stop the treatment at any time. Reassured I drifted off and let her work.

It was to be an hour long treatment. It was to be... and it was...but it sure didn't seem like it. I could still be on that table.

If you live on Mayne Island...if you can get to Mayne island...if you are in need of a massage...if you have ever thought of receiving one. Run don't walk...Meadow Dove Lang, registered massage therapist...her number is...(250)539 0627 You will be so glad you did.

And, no, in no way did she pay for or in any other way force me to write this. Actually she doesn't even know that I'm writing this...sh-h-h, it will just be our little secret. Except that I don't mind if you tell the world. I...too...now...am a walking, talking billboard.

Relax and release the tension
Leanne

Mayne Island blogs to read

2009-01-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

here are two...

My friend Amber Harvey writes a blog. Please check it out at:
http://www.treewithroots.wordpress.com/
Amber and I attend the same writers' group on Mayne Island. In her blog, she writes about her writing and her life on Mayne Island.

http://www.restqsanctuary.org/Blog/Blog.html
is the blog for Mayne Island's Rest Q Animal Sanctuary.
The sanctuary provides a permanent home for abused and neglected animals. As you will understand, providing such a home is very expensive. On February 14th I will participate in a fund raiser for the sanctuary. The doors will open at 7:30 pm. The evening will be full of music. No, I won't be singing. I will save your ears that. Instead, I will be reading two poems: one written by Elizabeth Barrett Browning and one (humbly) written by me.
Please check out the entire site. It is worth a through read.

About yesterday....
I watched President Obama on TV - I heard him on radio. He stood so straight, so tall. Yet, the weight of the world is on his shoulders. I wish him all the best. I hope he is kind to Canada.

The fog rolls in - the fog rolls out

2009-01-19T16:49:00.000-08:00

The sun shines through - the sun is blocked. And so the battle continues.
And does it look like we care much?

Except that Hubby and others who wished to leave the island on the early morning ferry were unable. This meant that Hubby had to work from home today.
And we say, "Hip, hip, hurray!"
All day long it really felt like I lived on an island...with the ferries' fog horn gentle sounding in the background. Romantic? You betcha.
(Some may say that its a good thing that it felt like I lived on an island...because that's what I do. However, those people are far to logical for me.)

May you always be able to find your way home
And may the warmth of the sun find you there,
Leanne

Ordering books and patterns from www.oknitting.com

2009-01-19T07:28:00.001-08:00

I have changed the order page. My hope is that the changes will make ordering easier. Your feedback is appreciated. Please email: leanne@oknitting.com
Thank you,
Leanne

2009-01-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

Mayne Island has been veiled in fog since Wednesday. Today as I look out my window - I can only see the first row of trees that are directly across the road. I just looked again and noticed that the fog is thickening. It is threatening to eliminate the trees from view. On a day like this it is easy to believe in magic. What the eye doesn't see - the brain conjures. On a day like this it is necessary to focus on what is immediately in hand. For you can see little else. What is immediately in hand? Why knitting of course. Knit a little - rip back - knit a little - make a change in my design - rip back - knit a little: the stuff of my life.
Have a magical day
Leanne

Here is an interesting article http://www.seacanoe.org/fog.htm
It was written by a man who clearly has been in and through fog.

What's what and who's who

2009-01-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

There has been a lot of discussion of late, in the knitting circles I frequent, regarding the term "designer". Who is allowed to use that title? When? How? What hoops must they jump through? May they call themselves a designer if they do half the work or must they do it all? May they call themselves a designer if they have only created one design or must they create a design collection? May they call themselves a designer if they only design dishcloths or scarves or hats and don't sell patterns? May they call themselves a designer if they make minor changes to a store bought pattern? Who can answer these questions? Can they speak for everyone?

...oh, you thought I would answer any or all of these questions? ...sorry.

Take care,
Leanne

PS If you do have the answers please share. Thank you.