Thursday, August 14, 2014

I am so predictable.....

I know you are all not surprised to see that I made another Olive Twist Shawl, if nothing else I am very predictable.  And as you can imagine I am dreaming of making another one already, but before I find more yarn and a hook lets look at this one.






Made from Noro Shirakaba, silk, cotton and wool yarn with a size J hook.  Let me just say that while I have a love/hate relationship with Noro, this yarn just might win me over.  I am in LOVE with this yarn and now could kick myself for not buying more when the yarn store was going out of business.  I love it so much I almost feel like unraveling this whole shawl just to use this yarn again.  

I made this shawl big, I mean big for me.  This is no scarf this is a SHAWL!  Part of the reason I made it big is because I had enough yarn, and I did not want to waste any leaving a skein all on its own.  But the other reason was that in my sleep deprived, nursing state, I kept looking at the yarn band thinking each skein was 125 yards.  Well no, if I had put my reading glasses on I would have seen it was 125 meters.  I should know better, because that is a big difference in yardage, but it all ended up just fine.  Better too much yarn than not enough or so they say.  

I am dreaming of making another one because once you get the pattern down it is a very easy two row repeat.  I can always use easy.  Shall I do purple, or maybe dark gray?  A sock weight yarn or something thicker? Hmmm..... it is so fun to plan.

On other news, my Teenager is up and about now, eating soft foods, going to the movies and having fun the last four days of his summer vacation.  He lost a total of 9 pounds during his recovery, that is a lot in one week.  Thank goodness that is all behind us.

I want to leave you with a picture of Little Buddy and his Medical Foster Parents Jeannette and Todd.  They came for a nice long visit today and Little Buddy was thrilled.  He loved seeing them and playing with them, and got a bit upset when they were leaving.  He wanted to go along, why not, they were his parent for two wonderful years.  But as they were leaving he waved good-bye, blew kisses and settled right back into his life here with us.  It is so important to me that they are a big part of his life.  That they see him when they need to and rejoice as he reaches new milestones.  Jeannette and Todd gave him the very best start possible.  They are dear friends, and frankly are probably so sick of me as I am at their house about 6 hours a week, every week for years!  Here they are, doesn't this just make you smile?  Can you see all the love shared between them?  I can.




49 comments:

moonstruckcreations said...

Love the shawl, so pretty.

BB's medical foster parents look like truly wonderful people - just like you.

Helenxx

linda said...

That is such lovely picture Meredith yes you are right the love they share is there for all to see. I love your shawl and quite understand why you want to make another and another and....haha I'm so pleased your son is well on the mend he will soon put the weight back on now he's eating. Xxx

Angel Jem said...

Aww! They look so happy together. I love the shawl, the pink is really a bright colour.

RedSetter said...

What a lovely picture of LB and his transitional parents. There is joy just shining out.

As for the scarf colour choice - what a silly question....purple is the answer of course....tee hee!

mynestofyarnandbuttons said...

Beautiful pink shawl Meredith! I love pink, it looks so nice on so many people. Love the photo of Little Buddy and his medical foster parents. It must have been a happy reunite but it was wonderful that he was so content and happy in your home and his new life when they left. You guys are outstanding people!
Wow 9 pounds is a ton of weight in a weeks time, now you will have to fatten him up. Boy is our work never done : )
xoRobin

CJ said...

Beautiful shawl, I really love it in that pink. How lovely that the foster parents are still in your lives, and that they love your little buddy and can come and visit sometimes. It's wonderful that he has so many people loving him. CJ xx

Linda @ A La Carte said...

That shawl is gorgeous and yes make another one! So pretty! Love the photo of Little Buddy, they all look so happy. Glad to hear your son is feeling better.
hugs,
Linda

Handmade and off-centered said...

The pink is really gorgeous on the shawl. I am making a shawl as well and my plan is to make it big.

I think its great that you have such a good relationship with his medical foster parents. How lucky Buddy is to have you all :)

Hugs, Birgitta

Suzan said...

Lovely shawl and neat seeing Little Buddies other "folks"!! He's one Blessed little boy!!

My Garden Diaries said...

How absolutely beautiful that you all have this relationship! Yes! You can see the strong bond of love there!!! And how happy am I to hear that your son has finally turned the corner!!!! I would wear that shawl all the time friend...it is gorgeous! Perfect for going out and wrapping up when it is a bit chilly! Have a great weekend!! Nicole xoxo

Chris said...

Love love your shawl, that pink is so pretty! I have knit with Shirakaba it is really nice yarn. You pic of your little guy and his med foster family is so heartwarming. You are all very very special people and I have found your blog quite inspiring. There are wonderful good people doing great things quietly . It is easy to get a little more jaded about the world if you listen and watch the mass media too much. Lots of everyday heroes , just have to keep an open ear, eye and heart. Good new your son is on the mend. Soon your grocery bill will be astronomical as he makes up for lost time and food! Take care Chris

Caffeine Girl said...

So glad your teenager is on the mend, especially with school so close! We don't start until after Labor Day -- thanks to the tourism industry. It does mean we go longer in June!

I certainly can see the love between Little Buddy and his medical foster parents. He has been a very lucky boy! And no one could possibly get tired of you!

Betsy said...

That IS is beautiful love-filled picture. LB has been very blessed to have first these wonderful people and now your family in his life. Your shawl is gorgeous. I've enjoyed seeing each of them come to life on your hook and look forward to more. :-) it is good to hear that your patient is up and around and doing teenage things again.
Blessings Meredith,
Betsy

Acorn to Oak said...

I love this shawl! It's so pretty! I've never loved Noro enough to buy it. It always seems weird and scratchy. And, I've never seen it in pink. It's really pretty! A two row repeat?! That sounds awesome! Reminds me of the South Bay Shawlette...which I've made many of. It has a simple two row repeat too. Still haven't found the magazine. I'm going to look again tomorrow when I go to a larger city to pick my daughter up at the airport.

Your "Little Buddy" is precious! Such a happy photo. :-)

elns said...

When do you not make a lovely shawl? The pink is gorgeous. I think it's really lovely how you are maintaining a relationship with his medical foster parents. all the best mere.

Mrs. C said...

So much love :) ( I have a huge smile on my face right now, thanks :)

Karen said...

I never get tired of seeing your creations, even if it's the same pattern, they all look so different. Beautiful shawl!

Great photo. There's a whole lotta love in each one of those beautiful smiles.

kathyinozarks said...

I always love your shawls-so pretty. yes I can see all the love-

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

Uh-oh! You've got your neighbors raising their eyebrows again. HA! :) The shawl is great. I think the next one should be in gray, but that's because I like gray and wear it a lot. Love the picture of Little B with his foster parents. They sure do all look happy. And they are all wearing the same color. How cool is that! :) So glad to know that all is going well. Take care, Tammy

Anonymous said...

I see love in their faces, but I also see a great deal of pride in how well he is doing! You can see he's pretty proud of them too. :-)

Little Buddy could never have too many people to love him.

Kris said...

Beautiful shawl Meredith! I love the color too!
How nice that Little Buddy's medical foster parents are staying in close contact with him!
xo Kris

mamasmercantile said...

Beautiful picture of Little Buddy and his medical foster parents, lots of love shining through which is what all children deserve. Good news that your son is on the mend, poor thing losing so much weight in such a short time. The shawl is stunning a real delight. Perfect for an Autumn evening.

Sue Pinner said...

Hi, love the shawl and buddy's medical foster parents do look lovely people, very happy picture.
Good to hear your teenager is on the mend, that's a lot of weight to loose, poor thing...best wishes
Hugs xx

gilly said...

Aw, every time I see a pic of Little Buddy, I just want to give him a big cuddle - he is just sooo adorable.
Love your shawl too, and there is nothing at all wrong with predictability! I think a pretty soft grey one would be just lovely for autumn.
Glad your teenager is on the the mend too. Have a happy weekend,
hugs xx

gaia said...

Gorgeous shawl; lovely colour.
Great photo too...

Babajeza said...

The shawl is beautiful and now that I have the pattern .... I don't know when I will be finished with the hat making though. :-)
They look so happy, little Buddy and his other parents. Have a nice weekend with lots of crochet. Regula

Mrs. Micawber said...

Oh my gosh, I can see why you like that yarn - it's gorgeous! Works really well for the pattern too, as it gives a subtle striped effect.

I think your next one should be purple. Maybe with a little colour-blocked section at the edge - the last several rows in grey? :)

Good news all around on the family front. Hugs to you.

Carla from The River said...

I love the shawl, it is beautiful. I love the color too.
I am happy all is getting better for your family. 9 pounds is a lot. WOW.
Praying all will be back to 100% soon.

Fun photo :-)

Vera said...

Great picture of Little Buddy and his medical foster parents -- love all around for sure. And, gorgeous shawl! Love it. So glad your boy is healing. 9 lbs is a ton to lose in one week. I think it's harder to go thru that kind of surgery the older you are...and I just heard of a friend-of-a-friend who went thru that this week...at age 58! Yikes. She is very, very uncomfortable. Hope you have a fabulous weekend!

Amy at love made my home said...

Your shawl is beautiful! I love the colour, I look forward to seeing what colour you decide to use next!!! What a lovely photo of Buddy and his foster parents, they look very happy! I am glad that Mr teen is picking up so well. xx

Jennifer Hays said...

Your shawl is so pretty, Meredith. I love scarves and would really like to become more of a shawl person too. I'm glad your teenager's feeling better now. Little Buddy's foster parents look like such nice people, I can see care and love radiating from both of them. He's so blessed to have all of you in his life, and vice versa.

Home Meadows said...

Your shawl is lovely; color and the pattern. I'm glad your son is recovering well and more back to himself. What a sweet photo of your LB with his mfp's. Beautiful smiles all around. Hope you have a great weekend. Heather

Cari said...

Oh my gosh Meredith…Your sweet little buddy is so very blessed to have such wonderful Mom's and Dad's in his life. This pic is simply fabulous !!! HUGS

kathy b said...

all of you are INCREDIBLE beings…
Lil bud looks sooooo sweet

RURAL said...

The shawl is stunning, I am never tired of seeing the beauty that you create from a simple ball of yarn.

And your little one looks so happy, he is one adorable little guy.

Jen

Jo said...

I am in love with the shawl. I am looking for another pattern as I have made 3 of the Elise ones now. I simply love that last picture too. What a wonderful thing to do woth your life. Jo x

Tanna said...

BEAUTIFUL shawl, Meredith. I knew you would love that Shirakaba. It is my favorite Noro ever and I do love me some Noro. SAD it is discontinued.

Precious photos of little Buddy and folks who love him dearly... which is very evident. blessings ~ tanna

Ingrid K. said...

Hello!

Your shawl is absolutely beautiful! I'm glad you are starting to like Noro, I find the colours amazing, every time I see some of their yarn in a shop!

Glad things are settling down with your family again! Your photos speak for themselves!

The other day you mentioned about the pink colour and funnily enough I have just started crocheting a shawl in pink Merino Cotton because I was looking for a suitable and soft yarn!

Why not make another shawl if you are happy with the pattern?

I used the South Bay Shawlette and have made several versions, short and longer ones, over this summer.

It is lovely to settle down over a pattern you got to grips with already and you don't have to think too much whilst you are crocheting!

Thanks for another lovely post, such a pleasure to read!
Ingrid xx
http://myfunkycrochet.blogspot.be/2014/08/enjoy-little-things-puur-haken-and.html

Anonymous said...

That's wonderful that they are involved in his life.

The shawl is gorgeous too, I can't decide which I like more, the yarn or the stitch combination. Its very nice.

Annie Cholewa said...

I've been so out of the loop recently I've missed all the drama of your teenager's op and slow recovery, and all the fun of visits and pink crochet. I do hope that somewhere In all of that a spot of nurturing came your way. You are an amazing woman my friend but no one can run effectively for long on an empty tank,

Little buddy just looks so happy in all your pics ... he's a joyful and joy giving boy methinks x

Jill at emeraldcottage said...

Just catching up as we are on holiday:) Glad the tonsillectomy victim is over the worst. I remember it we'll. worse than childbirth.
Love the pink shawl, beautiful colors. I looked at the pattern, is it really confusing or is it just me ?

Susanne Tyree said...

I'm so glad someone has figured out this pattern. As you know I found the book and I sat down and started the thing.....oh man, I couldn't even get past row 2, and I have been crocheting for 50 years. This is the first pattern to have completely stumped me, so I laid it aside and now doing a scarf called The Claudia Scarf for my sil. It is a simple pattern and every row is the same no brainer, but lovely none the less. I will try the shawl again, and hope this next time does not have me throwing fits. They do look like wonderful people and what I think is great is that little Buddy has 2 families who love and care for him. I'm so glad your son is doing better. Now you need to fatten him up with some good old home cooking, lol
(((HUGS))) Susanne :)

Linda said...

The shawl is gorgeous, no matter how many times you make it, if you love it just make it again lol

Good know your family is on the mend at last, that's a lot of weight loss in a week but once he gets his appetite back I am sure he will put it back on soon enough.

Great picture of LBuddy, he's always got such a beautiful big smile, he must love the camera xx

Toni said...

Beautiful shawl! I can see why it's a favorite!

Glad everyone is feeling better, and a big WHOO HOO for little buddy's medical foster parents. Really, can one ever have too many great people in one's life?

Yarnism said...

The pink shawl is very pretty...I think you should start another one in purple , it will look fab..

The picture of LB is lovely, they all look so very happy together... It is good to see they still remove the time for him...

Love,
Sabrina

Gracie Saylor said...

It is so heartening to know LB has been/is being so well loved. I love seeing the joy expressed in the last photo! And the pink shawl is truly lovely Meredith. You continue to inspire me on all fronts! xx

Ewa said...

Bardzo ładna chusta ! Pozdrawiam !

Olga Poltava said...

Gorgeous shawl Meredith!
And what a wonderful photo of Little Buddy and his Medical Foster Parents. So much happiness!
And I want to brag a bit. My son Viktor (he's a special needs boy, autism spectrum) started kindergarten today. And he took a school bus, first time ever, all by himself, no crying, no screaming. I'm such a happy and proud mom!

Lynne said...

Little Buddy is one lucky kid with so many people in his life who love him.
The shawl is gorgeous and a lovely pink. I'm tempted to make one now, but must check out the yummy Noro first. I haven't tried Shiakaba yet.
Glad your boy is on the mend :)