White Flower Monday

It's a dry, cold spring Monday in Michigan. The warm spring rains have eluded our part of the north country and it still feels cold. I'm still wearing wool turtlenecks and down vests. I unlock the door to the office early on Monday, put down my backpack and my eye catches. . .two wondrous white amaryllis blooms that unfolded over the weekend.

Wondrous flowers. Wonder of growth. How can it be that those dry, sometimes brittle bulbs that we plant bring such warmth of hope with their blooms! Here, harbingers of spring sparkling with their white petals gleaming against the glass block south windows. Spring!

Crazy Weekend Working on Book

Well, the weekend is almost over. It's been cold, but sunny on Sunday. I'm totally wrapped up in the next quilting book that we're publishing at Graywood Designs. I want to be DONE! The last photo shoot is this week and I'm ready to move on to promoting this book and other important things like gardening and golf.

The photos are VERY preliminary looks at two of the many projects in the new book. The train placemat for Max got the ball rolling for this book and the little placemats (think kids playing restaurant!) and the tea cozy are later additions.

Knitting Needles from Dad

My Dad, Stan Hayes, has been gifting his daughters who are knitters with a wonderful ongoing treasure -- Signature knitting needles. I just received another pair in February since that's my birthday month.

Signature needles are made in Kenosha, Wisconsin using aircraft aluminum and excellent machining techniques. Dad has been sending me needles with spiral ends and stiletto tips. Knitting with these needles can spoil one. They are light and smooth and a joy to handle.

Currently I have two projects going on Dad's needles -- a velvet scarf with a reversible cable that you can see in the photo with this blog entry and another scarf that is being knit with Jo Sharp silk/wool blend.

So far Dad has given me three sets -- sizes 6, 7 and 8. Dad, these are such a thoughtful gift and I think of you whenever I pick up these needles and knit!

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Link to Signature's website:http://www.signatureneedlearts.com/