Thursday, July 16, 2026

Gerbera and Socks

 I finished my latest bag commission. It is my first bag made nearly entirely in cork fabric.



The pattern is Gerbera Crossbody Pouch, by Blue Calla Patterns. I used a rainbow flecked cork from MM Cork, in BC. The recipient chose the fabrics, from her grandmother's stash. This is her birthday gift from Grandma.

I realized as I sat down to type this, that I forgot a picture of the back.


A bit darker, because I just did this one quickly.

I used a cork overlay on the interior zipper pocket.


The other side has card pockets and a slip pockets for her phone.


It also has a carabiner for her keys. 

I hope she enjoys her new bag. Grandma is going to visit her at her university, next week, and will deliver the bag.

Meanwhile, I finished a pair of socks that I started in May.


They look kind of odd. I think they need a light blocking. The pattern is called "Make Your Heels Strong". It is free on Ravelry. The yarn is some clearance bin sock yarn I found in my stash. The advantage of these socks is that you don't have to pick up any stitches. Not sure I will make them again.

The garden is loving all the rain. since our plants are in pots, their feet have a chance to dry out.


You can see our blueberries at the top of the picture . This is an experiment, for this summer. They have set fruit, but we might just be feeding the birds, if they get them first.

Wild Fires are raging to the North of us. I think of those who have to evacuate, and of course, the animals. We just have to deal with bad air.

Today, I'll clean up the sewing room, ready for the next project.






Thursday, July 2, 2026

Washed Out Canada Day

 Although we live in the National Capital, we leave the big show downtown to the visitors, and enjoy something quieter.


Our favourite little Canadian was dressed in her patriotic bandana. She was planning a day in her pool.



Meanwhile, off in the official celebration, our Prime Minister announced that Canada would be in Eurovision, next year. 

However, just after 1:30 in the afternoon, the sky started to boom. The rain started to fall. It was very dark. The people at the downtown festivities were told to take shelter. The storm went on for hours. The main highway, just east of us, became a lake. In the end we set a new record for a single day in July, of 118 mm of rain. 

In the late afternoon, I saw a rainbow. It was rather faint. In a few minutes the clouds turned dark again, and the rain started again. 

I spent some time, playing with a new knitting pattern.



This is Floral iCord Garland, a practice pattern for Floral Bouquet Shawl, both by Xandy Peters. 

The sun is out today, and it is very hot, and of course, very humid. I'm hiding inside. 

I'm making progress on a new purse. I have to keep reminding myself that even 15 minutes is progress. I hope to have it done by the end of the weekend.

Have a good weekend.