Basketmaster's Weavings

I L-O-V-E This!!!!

2012-01-25T13:25:00.002-07:00

Dear Friends,
I hope you will take 2 minutes to watch this video. I think you will love it as much as I do.
Hugs and Blessings,
Nancy

Scentsy's January 2012 Bring Back My Bar Review

2012-01-13T20:37:00.004-07:00

Dear Friends,
In today's video I review the 20 Bring Back My Bar scents from Scentsy. These are 20 retired scents that are brought back just for the month of January. I hope you enjoy this video and if you are interested in any of them, please visit My Scentsy Website.

Thank you everyone. I appreciate you!
Blessings,
Nancy

This Year Will Be Different

2012-01-06T09:29:00.001-07:00

New Year Blessings to You

2012-01-01T09:18:00.001-07:00

Photo from DaySpring E-Cards

A note to Shirley from Maine and other readers

2011-12-01T20:28:00.001-07:00

Dear Shirley and all my friends,
Shirley, I received an e-mail from you asking about a twill utensil basket and I'd be very happy to contact you back with the information you are looking for. Unfortunately, I don't have any way to reach you. When your comment came to me it says noreplycomment@blogger.com. When I click on your blogger user name, there is no blog or contact information set up.

Please Shirley, and all my friends who read this, send me an e-mail and I'm very happy to get back to you and answer questions. Shirley, I'm sorry I'm picking on you here ;-) You are not the first person to do this as it happens from time to time so I thought I better address this issue.

I love you all and want to assist you in your basket weaving ventures all I can. My e-mail is basketmaster_nancy@yahoo.com

Hugs and Blessings to you all!
Nancy

Two Challenges for 2012 and some Emily Pictures

2011-11-30T11:21:00.001-07:00

The Day Each Year I Dread

2011-11-29T07:52:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's my hubby up there!!!

I'm sure many women beg their husbands to get on the ladder and hang the Christmas lights. Every year I tell Mike we can just decorate the lower half of the house. Mike says we aren't in the Christmas spirit if we don't decorate. I only say not to hang the lights once (each year) after that I bite my tongue because this is important to him.

I love you honey and I appreciate all you do for the family!

Now you are all probably wondering why I'm not holding the ladder for him! I snapped a quick picture and got right back to bracing the ladder.

How do you decorate for the holidays? Do you put up lots of lights? Do you hang them from the top of a two story house?

Blessings,
Nancy

Finish What I Start

2011-11-28T06:21:00.001-07:00

I have decided to make my mantra for 2012 "Finish What I Start." I have so many unfinished projects. Not finishing projects is not making me a happy camper and it does NOT glorify God.

I'm so good about getting big ideas and being excited about them, then I lose my enthusiasm and it never gets to completion.

This leads to clutter, unnecessary spending, guilt over having spent time and money to get things started, which in turn leads to feelings of low self-esteem because I feel poorly about myself. I also feel overwhelmed.

I see so many unfinished projects I don't know where to start. I feel like people in the TV shows "Clean House" and "Hoarders" who have so much stuff they can't even start cleaning their homes. They are too overwhelmed to even know where to begin. I feel like that because I'm being pulled in so many different directions to this project or that project. Then a great idea hits and I want to start yet another project. "Oh this new project will be different," I tell myself. When I finish this latest project it will bring me happiness and fulfillment. This project needs to be started and it will make me better in some way. (I'm going to say right now that in no way does my home look like a home of a hoarder, but I have the same feelings of overwhelm that they feel.) You know, right now I'm looking at my Christmas tree. It is beautifully decorated except it is missing one thing, the star at the top. We decorated the tree before we left for Thanksgiving. I wanted the house to be done when we returned. I just ran out of time and the star was in another box and I just haven't made the time to dig it out and put it on. It's just lots of little stuff like that. Sometimes though it is big things like huge craft projects. It's just too many things that just aren't done. Ugh!

Why do I stop working on the project? Good question. Sometimes I get bored. Sometimes the project seems too big and daunting. Sometimes other commitments pull me away from it and then I lose interest. Sometimes the prep work is overwhelming like the area is cluttered. It is easier to walk away. Sometimes I lose something necessary to complete the project.

You know, many projects could probably be finished in a day or less if I put my mind to it.

You know what else? God loves me anyway, just who I am. It is me who doesn't love myself so much when I think about these failed attempts.

So I focus on NOW, not even waiting for 2012 to concentrate on my motto of finish what I start. I will look at each project I come across. If I need to finish it, I will take steps necessary to do so. If its not necessary and I have no desire, I will get rid of it. My goal is to finish two projects for every one I start. To say I won't start any new projects until I finish what I already have would be unrealistic.

I'm also going to try and record my accomplishments. I'll try to finish my daily tasks before doing other things like the computer.

Thank you God for helping me do this.

Dear God, through your divine grace and mercy, help me be highly successful in my projects and that throughout doing them and upon their completion you are glorified. ~Amen~

Thanksgiving in Kansas

2011-11-27T09:39:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends,We are back home in New Mexcio after our visit to my parents in Kansas. It was a nice but very short trip. We celebrated an early Christmas with my side of the family. For my new readers, here is who is in the picture. Front row, our Emily, age 16, who I talk about all the time, my mom, our son Timothy who is now 14. Back row, our oldest Katie who is 18 and my dad. Mike and I are behind the camera.

What a blessing it is to have family. My parents are in their mid 80's now. My mom is a breast cancer survivor and my dad has finished chemo for prostate cancer. His hair is so thin and gray now and since the chemo it has come back in with some curl. Funny how things related to health change our hair. With every pregnancy of mine, my hair got curlier!

I love my family soooo much! We enjoyed your traditional turkey dinner with all the fixins. On Friday I took mom shopping after lunch. After the crazy black Friday crowds had died down and helped her get her Christmas shopping done. Then yesterday we had an uneventful car ride home. Katie drove the entire 10 hours home! She wanted to!! I pulled out my laptop and organized my photos on it as well as an enormous accumulation of documents I'd created over the years.

Today is quiet. We'll be going to church in about an hour and I am going to make a menu plan and grocery list for the next couple of weeks.

I hope you all had a truly blessed Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'm thankful for each of YOU!

This is just a pretty picture I took from the car during our ride home. It was taken in New Mexico as the sun was setting. This week I had time to reflect and think about goals and what I want for 2012. One of the things I'd like is to become a better photographer and to document more of my life.

Baskets of blessings,

Nancy

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T20:53:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,
I am thankful for YOU! As I bowed my head today in thanks, I am so grateful to our God for you and I treasure you with my heart. You are loved both by Him and by me.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Nancy

Free Basket Pattern

2011-11-08T19:25:00.003-07:00

Oh Friends, Have you seen the latest sweet pattern from Baskets of Joy? It is an adorable little pocket basket. I LOVE making these. They weave up so quick and easy and it uses one of my favorite embellishments, a basket buckle CUTE! The pattern can be found HERE. Baskets of Joy is offering the kit for this cutie for only $11.95 and that can be found HERE. I've woven little pocket baskets like this one for teacher gifts. They are a great size for those little list note pads.

Are you weaving baskets as Christmas gifts this year? I'd love to hear what you are weaving.

Blessings,

Nancy

ps. More quick prayers for Emily please. Now on top of everything else she has gotten strep throat. She is a sad and discouraged little girl. :-(

Fall

2011-11-05T09:06:00.000-06:00

The Albuquerque balloon fiesta is over.

The colors of leaves are just beautiful, especially along the Rio Grande. (Our Rio Grande really isn't too Grande, more on the small side if you ask me.)

So it's time to get in gear for the holidays. That's what's on my mind these days. I've been busy making lists, cooking and my sewing machine has been going every day.

I STILL have a few tomatoes, mostly green ones, on my plants! I'm going to go out and pick the very last of them this morning because it is supposed to freeze tonight.

I ran across this recipe for Green Tomato Relish from Allrecipes.com. It is 5 star review with almost 100 reviews so I'm anxious to try it and will work on it tomorrow after church.

I had bought some pumpkins for Halloween and the kids never got around to carving them. Guess my babies are growing up as they were all busy and didn't have the interest this year. So yesterday I spent my day cooking these big suckers and getting the meat out and froze it. I used THESE directions for cooking and freezing my pumpkin. We will have enough pumpkin for any recipe I want to make throughout the year!

Today is certainly colder and very cloudy with a little rain this morning. I have to pick up some contacts for Katie, pick those remaining tomatoes and then spend the rest of the afternoon inside where it is warm. A cup of hot tea and a good book sound wonderful. I finish off tonight by having a Scentsy party. A great day!

So Happy Fall ya'll and stay warm!

Blessings,

Nancy

Emily Update

2011-10-26T05:33:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,
This picture was taken 6 weeks ago. Emily was so happy to be selected for the high school dance team. The tryouts were back last May. In this picture she was in pain. Over the last two weeks she has spent much time in bed and there are few days she can make it to school. She has constant pain throughout her body and sleeps most of the day. For those of you new to my blog Emily, our 16 year old daughter, has been suffering from Lyme's disease.

It has been over 27 months since we have been dealing with this and things just seem to continue to get slowly worse. (Maybe things are actually getting better, but it sure feels worse right now.) It was last May when she started getting treatment for her Lymes. For such a long time we didn't even know what it her mysterious illness was. We've had good days and bad days throughout, but the bad days have become really bad days and are the norm. I was hesitant about her trying out for the dance team, but I said nothing as I wanted her to be like the other kids and have the opportunity to do the fun things that girls her age get to do. The doctors all say that it is important for her to keep exercising as well.

We were back to see her Lyme disease doctor a few weeks ago. We see a specialist out of state for this and it was our second visit to him. Lyme just seems to be like a game, some sort of a sick game where the bugs play hide and seek in a person's body trying to do their best to evade antibiotics. Emily's medication changes monthly and I know it's hard on her body. They, the doctors, say that because she is feeling so poorly that is actually a good sign as it means the Lyme bugs are dying off. As those bugs dye they release a toxin in her body that causes the increased pain and fatigue. Still, it has me second guessing myself every move I make with her. She's got a box of prescriptions for this or that regarding her Lyme and pain pills don't seem to touch it. Emily is so over all this pain, we all are. It has been extremely discouraging lately. Even though the increase in pain is supposedly a good sign, to be in such all over constant pain has led to some incredible depression and frustration. There are many days Emily doesn't want to continue this life. Still, as hard as this is, I give God thanks as I have to put my total faith that He is working behind the scenes and we will see evidence of this soon. What else can I do?

We've gotten Emily on a plan at school that allows kids to miss days due to medical conditions. In the past two weeks she has only been in school two days each week and since school started this fall she has never made it all five days each week. I don't know how she can keep up. That gives me stress, but I guess I just need to forget about that right now. Education can always come later or with summer school, or whatever if needed.

So please, I sound like a broken record here, but continued prayers for Emily. Pray that the pain leaves her body. Pray for ultimate and complete healing. Pray that she can fight the depression she is feeling and not take matters into her own hands and do something stupid. Pray that each medication choice is the right one for her and pray for her doctor and his staff. Also, pray for our other kids, Katie 18 and Timothy 14. We do our best to spend quality time with them but they often get the shaft because of Emily's needs. They understand, but it's hard on them too. I think that's all. Thanks friends. I love you.

Nancy

ps. Sometimes in the back of my mind I think that God is preparing Emily for something really great. I picture her at an older age speaking to other children in pain with empathy in that she knows what they are going through. I even picture Emily finally understanding why she had to go through what she is dealing with now and thanking God for it so that she was able to gain the knowledge and understanding to help others. I guess this image helps me deal with it all. I can't wait for the day that I can write you all a praise report.

A Work of Art

2011-10-24T09:05:00.001-06:00

We might feel as meaningless as this blank canvas. We might feel like we are a mess as with this painter. But God is continually shaping, molding and creating us. The video is only 2 minutes. I hope you will take a moment to watch and remember that we are a work of art in God's hands.
I love this!
Blessings,
Nancy

Woven Sunflower - Check out the Petals!

2011-10-22T12:05:00.002-06:00

This morning I was bouncing around from blog to blog. You know how that is when you click on a link and it leads you somewhere and from there you see something of interest that leads you elsewhere. Well, that is what happened this morning and I ran across a blog called My Great Finds. Linda, the blog owner found this woven sunflower at a thrift store. I thought it was neat. The petals are made from coconut shells! I can't quite tell about the rest of it though. Looks like the center is made of twine or a cord but I'm not sure. Anyway, I thought it was inspiring to incorporate coconut shells into a piece like this. Can't you just imagine a free form basket that has some coconut shells added for interest?

Hope you are all enjoying your fall. We are gathering the last of our tomatoes over this next week. The leaves on the trees are turning just beautiful right now. God's paintbrush is in full swing with yellows, oranges, and reds. I love the colors, but it means that winter is just around the corner. (yuck).

Have a blessed weekend everyone,

Nancy

How to Use a Basket Buckle

2011-09-21T20:03:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
I wove the basket above and included this sweet snowman basket buckle. The basket buckle is ceramic and has two holes that the damp reed slides through.

In my e-mail yesterday I got a sale ad from BasketWeavingSupplies.com. In the ad was this super cute basket for Halloween with a bat basket buckle. It's called "Bucket of Treats".

BasketWeavingSupplies.com is selling this as a kit for $26.95 and it includes the bat as well as the black leather handles. Take a look at the double spokes above the orange where they have layered the black. This is just a fun basket to weave.

Let me give you a tip here should you get the kit or make one on your own. When working with dark colors, and you can't get any darker than black, be sure to run that reed through an old towel. Also take a close look at it. The black reed is not bent, you know like upsetting the spokes. Since it is not bent, there is no need to really soak it, just get the black reed lightly damp and you will be fine!

Have fun friends. Many basket weaving places sell basket buckles which make a fun element on any basket. Be inspired!

Baskets of Blessings,
Nancy

Scentsy's Holiday Catalog

2011-09-20T16:47:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends,
I know I'm showing a lot of Scentsy stuff lately. I never want to be pushy about this (or anything) but when I am excited about something, I love to share it! People have been telling me to share Scentsy products and opportunity with you all more, so I'm really trying to NOT come across as being too forward. I would like to show you the great new things Scentsy has come out with for the holidays. If you are considering some Scentsy items, warmers with wonderful holiday fragrances and the sweet buddies for children, for the holidays, would you please consider getting them from my Scentsy site. It is truly a blessing to me and my family and I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate YOU.
Could I ask one more favor of you please....If you know of someone looking for Scentsy, would you please direct them to my site as well.
Thank you so very much.
Love and Blessings,
Nancy

Scentsy's Fall Winter 2011 Catalog

2011-09-16T07:00:00.002-06:00

My Scentsy Business

2011-08-17T09:50:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
A reminder that things are 10% off in the Spring and Summer catalog until August 31st. Scentsy is also changing their policy for those of you who would like to join. There is no longer the $150 every three month minimum!!! This is great for those of you who would like the product but do not want to do this as a business!
Should you choose to do this, I am here to help you every step of the way. Just send me an e-mail and I'll be more than happy to answer any of your questions. Should you choose to do Scentsy as a part-time or full-time business, I'm here for you too with business support. You can take Scentsy from as little to as much as you want and what works for you and your family!
Thank you all for your support in ordering Scentsy product from my website or joining my team.
Hugs and Blessings,
Nancy
PS. Scentsy is available for those of you in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam, United Kingdom and Germany!

Heads Up on a Reed Sale!

2011-08-15T09:02:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,

I want to give you a heads-up on a reed sale that starts tomorrow over at Arnie's Arts and Crafts which is part of Basketpatterns.com. You all know I like Basketpatterns.com and the price is right! In the e-mail I received from them it states the sale starts tomorrow and runs August 16th - 31st. It makes their reed prices $4.99 for PLB and $5.49 for Weavemaster. I'm not affiliated with Basketpatterns.com, but you know I shop there and have always received consistently great service through them.

Thought you all might like to know so you could stock up and do lots of weaving in the upcoming cold winter months.

Happy Weaving!

Nancy

PS Be sure to get on their mailing list if you aren't already.

Nancy Shares

2011-07-25T16:37:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
I'm letting you know of a new series of videos that I'll be making. Since they are not basket weaving related, I won't be posting them here. You can find them either on my YouTube channel or on my other blog How To Homemaker.

I just feel that this is the direction that God is taking my life at this time.

God Bless,
Nancy

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-04T04:00:00.001-06:00

Happy 4th of July. I hope you are spending it with family and doing some fun activities. I saw a basket similar to this on in a magazine one time and thought, I could make that. The blue is Rit dye royal blue and the red is Rit dye cardinal. The stars are wooden from the craft store and the handles are 1 1/2" wooden beads. They are leftover from my days of doing macrame. A small piece of 11/64" flat blue is threaded through each bead and then is incorporated into the rim as I did the lashing. The stars are glued onto the reed. What you cannot see is the seagrass that is used as a rim filler is also dyed red.

Remember, whenever you want to add wooden objects like my beads and stars shown here, you can also dye those if you desire. Just throw them in the dye pot as you dye your reed and it is a fun way to personalize any project.

Enjoy the fireworks tonight!

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

What is a Mug Rug? Let Me Show You!

2011-06-21T12:54:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
Have you seen these little cuties floating around the internet lately? I love these things! They are called a mug rug. What is a mug rug you ask? A mug rug is like a mini quilt that is somewhere in size between a coaster and a place mat. Most I've seen are rectangular in shape but I've seen heart shaped and flower shaped ones as well. They are made to set your beverage on as well as a crumbly baked good. You are encouraged to eat off these sweet mats! I think this is just a nice little touch as I sit quitely with my coffee and spend time with our Lord.

If you are a scrapbooker, you probably know what ATC's are. IMHO, this is the ATC in the sewing world except sizes vary unlike the ATC's. These mug rugs are embellished lavishly and traded in sewing and quilting circles. One of the best parts is that they use your scraps! I'm going to encourage you to google mug rugs and you will see the beautiful work quilters have done in making these. Some are true mini works of art!

Let me tell you how I made my mug rug.

I found my favorite size to be 5 1/2" x 11". I like this size where the length is double from the height. The binding you see around the edge is the backing of my mug rug just wrapped around to the front. You could finish the edge in bias tape or with another binding, but I find it is super easy to just wrap the backing around to the front side, fold it under so there is no raw edge, and stitch. There is a piece of batting 5 1/2" x 11" sandwiched between the front and back.

I made my mug rug just last night and it took about an hour. The only real embellishing I did is I stitched this little phrase with my sewing machine.

Here is the back side of my mug rug. I cut the backing one inch wider than the mug rug so that I could wrap it around to the front and fold under my raw edges.

So my top fabric I did first and pieced the pieces together and then squared it up to a size of 5 1/2" x 11". I cut a piece of batting 5 1/2" x 11". I cut the backing 7 1/2" x 13".

Here was my first attempt at making a mug rug. This was leftover fabric from my son's curtains that I sewed several years ago. The fabric is printed to have this pieced look to it. This mug rug happens to be 5" x 10". That is when I decided I wanted my next one to be just a bit larger. This will be great for his room though.

Have you tried to make one of these? Send me a picture if you have. What else are you sewing, weaving or crafting these days? I'd love to hear!

Blessings,

Nancy

Enjoying a Windowsill Herb Garden

2011-06-12T08:21:00.000-06:00

(Photo from Mega Gardening Articles)

Here's a tip: Weave your basket around a cottage cheese container and then use the cottage cheese container to grow your indoor herbs. I always have plants and herbs growing on my kitchen windowsill. How about you?

Have a blessed Sunday,
Nancy

Finishes for a Basket - A Reader Question

2011-06-09T21:16:00.002-06:00

Dear Friends,
A sweet reader has asked me the following question.

I see that you like to use Minwax yellow can for staining. Do you also use some kind of protective coating - either after staining or instead of staining? I've heard a weaver should treat their reed baskets. Is there a good product other than those specifically for baskets (which I would have to order).

Here is my answer:
I only use Minwax stain in the yellow can either spray or liquid. I have in the past used Weaver’s spray stain which worked quite nice but I had to order it. Minwax is just readily available and there are so many colors to choose from.

I personally do NOT put on any type of protective coating at all on my baskets after they are woven. I think some of the coatings that you mentioned make the basket hard and brittle. (she had mentioned using polycrylic, acrylic, polyurethane in her letter to me) I’m not saying this is wrong, but I just don’t like it. I’ve tried other stains that have a finish to them, perhaps kind of a shellac type finish. I tried it and said never again. My basket was sticky for weeks. I guess it is a personal preference thing, but I'm just happy with my good ol' Minwax and that's it.

So dear readers.....What do YOU do? Do you put a finish on your baskets? Please leave a comment and let us know.

Happy Weaving everyone. I hope the weather is treating you all well in your neck of the woods. We are fine here in New Mexico but the smoke from the Arizona fires is something else. For my readers who are close to the fires, please know you are in my prayers. Also for my dear readers who have been dealing with all the tornadoes and crazy weather, know I'm praying for you too.
Blessings,
Nancy

Wool Drying Basket

2011-06-05T12:10:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone,
I am a fan of baskets with feet, so I think this wool drying basket is just beautiful! W.H. Baskets has the pattern for FREE on their site, but it is only available for this month. Grab it now! Wanda, this is another beautiful basket! Thanks for another great pattern!!!

At the end of the month the pattern goes up for sale so you can get it later, but getting it now is your best opportunity. I've had requests from some of you to send the pattern after it is no longer for free. Sorry gang, but I just can't do that. These businesses that I showcase here have to put food on the table for their families. It is kind and generous that they offer the patterns for free for the month. I try to give you a heads-up to grab the pattern while you can, but that is the best I can do. If you miss it, just order the pattern from them. It is a way of saying thanks for all they are doing.

On another note... Mike and I had a wonderful day yesterday celebrating our 23rd anniversary. He took me to Chic-Fil-A for breakfast! What a sweetie! We had a business party at the house last night as one of his colleagues was changing divisions within the company. Tonight after church we will go out for a nice dinner and really celebrate. Best thing about having a party at the house is now the house is fully clean! Today I can just rest and relax.

Hugs everyone and have a blessed Sunday.
I love you guys.
Nancy

A Little Basket Help For a Dear Reader Please

2011-05-20T09:51:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,
A sweet reader, Libby, wrote to me with pictures of a basket she is working on and is in need of help. I've received her permission to post her pictures here on the blog.

To make a long story short, I rescued a misfit basket from a dumpster at work. It was just a cheap basket with a broken rim and the handle off. The basket bottom was good so I have remade it from the bottom up but I'm having trouble getting my rim on. It has round spokes and they are short and I can't seem to get them all in my rim. I think I may can glue them once I get them all in and get my wrapping finished. Any suggestions? I am sending pictures but it really doesn't show my problem. I think I really don't have anything to attach my rim too. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I've responded to her with first off, how cool to rescue an orphan basket from its untimely demise! Now my suggestions to here were 1. Make the basket shorter and 2. Insert round reed spokes next to the existing ones so there is more to work with when dealing with the rim.

What other ideas do you have that could help Libby? All suggestions are welcome! When more people look at a situation the more alternatives we can get and Libby will have more to choose from and can make a decision that will work best for her.

Thanks everyone!
Blessings and happy weaving,
Nancy

Free Jelly Jar Basket Pattern

2011-05-15T07:57:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
It is a new month so I want to direct you to a new free pattern on the web. W. H. Baskets has a free pattern for a jelly jar basket. Very sweet! This is a beginner level basket so for you new weavers this is a perfect one to get started with. I also like how they have shown the different embellishments so how it can easily be adapted for different seasons.
Be sure to pop over there and print off your pattern sometime this month.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Some Lighthearted Funnies

2011-05-11T19:36:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
This came to my in-box and gave me quite a laugh. You know I teach religion to first graders. I have to add one of my own here. When all the grades were called into an assembly, our nun who runs the education department in our church asked a question to the kids. The answer was the Holy Trinity. One of the second graders answered with the Holy Mackerel. I had to turn away so no one would see me giggle.
I hope these put a smile on your face.
Blessings,
Nancy

A Nun Grading Papers

CAN YOU IMAGINE THE NUN SITTING AT HER DESK GRADING THESE PAPERS, ALL THE WHILE TRYING TO KEEP A STRAIGHT FACE AND MAINTAIN HER COMPOSURE!
PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE WORDING AND SPELLING. IF YOU KNOW THE BIBLE EVEN A LITTLE, YOU'LL FIND THIS HILARIOUS! IT COMES FROM A CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEST.

KIDS WERE ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS. THE FOLLOWING 25 STATEMENTS ABOUT THE BIBLE WERE WRITTEN BY CHILDREN. THEY HAVE NOT BEEN RETOUCHED OR CORRECTED.

INCORRECT SPELLING HAS BEEN LEFT IN.

1. IN THE FIRST BOOK OF THE BIBLE, GUINESSIS. GOD GOT TIRED OF CREATING THE WORLD SO HE TOOK THE SABBATH OFF.

2. ADAM AND EVE WERE CREATED FROM AN APPLE TREE. NOAH'S WIFE WAS JOAN OF ARK. NOAH BUILT AND ARK AND THE ANIMALS CAME ON IN PEARS.

3. LOTS WIFE WAS A PILLAR OF SALT DURING THE DAY, BUT A BALL OF FIRE DURING THE NIGHT.

4. THE JEWS WERE A PROUD PEOPLE AND THROUGHOUT HISTORY THEY HAD TROUBLE WITH UNSYMPATHETIC GENITALS.

5. SAMPSON WAS A STRONGMAN WHO LET HIMSELF BE LED ASTRAY BY A JEZEBEL LIKE DELILAH.

6. SAMSON SLAYED THE PHILISTINES WITH THE AXE OF THE APOSTLES.

7. MOSES LED THE JEWS TO THE RED SEA WHERE THEY MADE UNLEAVENED BREAD, WHICH IS BREAD WITHOUT ANY INGREDIENTS.

8. THE EGYPTIANS WERE ALL DROWNED IN THE DESSERT. AFTERWARDS, MOSES WENT UP TO MOUNT CYANIDE TO GET THE COMMANDMENTS.
9. THE FIRST COMMANDMENTS WAS WHEN EVE TOLD ADAM TO EAT THE APPLE.

10. THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT IS THOU SHALT NOT ADMIT ADULTERY.

11. MOSES DIED BEFORE HE EVER REACHED CANADA THEN JOSHUA LED THE HEBREWS IN THE BATTLE OF GERITOL.

12. THE GREATEST MIRICLE IN THE BIBLE IS WHEN JOSHUA TOLD HIS SON TO STAND STILL AND HE OBEYED HIM.

13. DAVID WAS A HEBREW KING WHO WAS SKILLED AT PLAYING THE LIAR. HE FOUGHT THE FINKELSTEINS, A RACE OF PEOPLE WHO LIVED IN BIBLICAL TIMES.

14. SOLOMON, ONE OF DAVIDS SONS, HAD 300 WIVES AND 700 PORCUPINES.

15. WHEN MARY HEARD SHE WAS THE MOTHER OF JESUS, SHE SANG THE MAGNA CARTA.

16. WHEN THE THREE WISE GUYS FROM THE EAST SIDE ARRIVED THEY FOUND JESUS IN THE MANAGER.

17. JESUS WAS BORN BECAUSE MARY HAD AN IMMACULATE CONTRAPTION.

18. ST. JOHN THE BLACKSMITH DUMPED WATER ON HIS HEAD.

19. JESUS ENUNCIATED THE GOLDEN RULE, WHICH SAYS TO DO UNTO OTHERS BEFORE THEY DO ONE TO YOU. HE ALSO EXPLAINED A MAN DOTH NOT LIVE BY SWEAT ALONE.

20. IT WAS A MIRICLE WHEN JESUS ROSE FROM THE DEAD AND MANAGED TO GET THE TOMBSTONE OFF THE ENTRANCE.

21. THE PEOPLE WHO FOLLOWED THE LORD WERE CALLED THE 12 DECIBELS.

22. THE EPISTELS WERE THE WIVES OF THE APOSTLES.

23. ONE OF THE OPPOSSUMS WAS ST. MATTHEW WHO WAS ALSO A TAXIMAN.

24. ST. PAUL CAVORTED TO CHRISTIANITY, HE PREACHED HOLY ACRIMONY, WHICH IS ANOTHER NAME FOR MARRAIGE.

25. CHRISTIANS HAVE ONLY ONE SPOUSE. THIS IS CALLED MONOTONY.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T07:23:00.001-06:00

Free Williamsburg Pansy Basket Pattern

2011-04-28T10:37:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends,
Baskets of Joy has a free pattern for this sweet Williamsburg Pansy basket. It is available until the end of the month so grab it quick. You can also purchase the kit through them for $19.95.

The reason it is called a Williamsburg basket is because of the shape of the handle that is used to make it. Take a look.

This is a Williamsburg handle. It has a very distinct shape where it is wider at the opening of the basket and tapers down at the base.

What a pretty basket for spring!

Happy Weaving,

Nancy

Where I Buy Basket Weaving Supplies

2011-04-27T11:00:00.002-06:00

Hi Friends,
I get asked several times each month where I buy my basket weaving supplies. I have my favorite places, like many of you do as well. Leave a comment and let us know where you shop at and why you like them. It will help our fellow weavers.
Thanks and happy weaving!
Nancy
Ps. My own personal favorites are Gratiot Lake Basketry and Basket Patterns.

Free Lazy Susan Basket Pattern

2011-04-26T14:12:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,

Over at W. H. Baskets you can print off the Lazy Susan Basket Pattern. I am so excited about this pattern because it is getting close to summer. We've already eaten out once on our back patio and this basket would be perfect for the patio table. It will hold the ketchup, mustard, relish and other condaments making it easy for everyone around the table to reach them.

Wanda over at W. H. Baskets sells the lazy susan base for $15.

This free basket pattern is only available till the end of April so you just have a few days to grab it! Super cute and practical. I'm lovin' this basket.

Blessings and Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Easter Blessings

2011-04-24T10:35:00.002-06:00

He didn't have to do it, but I'm so thankful that He did.
He did it for me and He did it for each and everyone of you. He loves you... always.

May you all have a very blessed day today.
Love,
Nancy

I'll Send You a Free Sample of Amber Road Fragrance

2011-04-22T07:33:00.003-06:00

Hi Friends,
You know I started selling Scentsy last year. I made a little video to share with you.
Yesterday afternoon I received the May Scentsy warmer and scent of the month.
I'll be happy to send you a free sample of the newest scent "Amber Road". Amber Road is available for purchase starting May 1st. During the month of may, all Amber Road products and the new Magellan warmer are 10% off. Send me an e-mail to basketmaster_nancy@yahoo.com with your mailing address and I'll get your sample right out.
Thanks and Blessings,
Nancy

2 Prayer Requests

2011-04-15T07:49:00.007-06:00

Good Morning Friends,

Would you please add these two prayers to your list today.

The first is for my father. He is now on chemo for his prostate cancer and is having a hard time with it. He first got cancer when Emily was a baby so that was 15 years ago. He had radiation and has been taking medication all these years for it, but it is now coming back and attacking him. Dad is 83, but he is a young 83. He and Mom celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in February. (Mom as you probably remember is a breast cancer survivor.)

2nd prayer request is for our Emily. She is in so much pain. She has had 3 positive tests for Lyme disease. The doctors here say these are false positives and that all she really has is fibromyalgia. We don't believe that. Next month I have her scheduled with a doctor our of state who specializes in Lyme disease. Now if this doctor says these are false positives and it's not Lyme then I will believe it, but I truly think this is what has been plaguing her for almost 2 years now. Until then, I take her weekly to a pain clinic here. She is such a sweet girl who loves God so much. Ok sometimes she's not so sweet when she is tired and REALLY hurting ;-) She is also having more and more trouble with her ear. She cannot handle lots of noise, even a lot of talking from all of us in the car. She says it is all static.

That is Emily and our Tim. This picture was taken 2 years ago in Branson, MO where we went camping for 10 days. It is just before her pain and issues started. Could very well be this is where she was bitten. We know for a fact she was bit by a tick when we lived in Florida about 6 years ago.

PBS is having a wonderful documentary on Lyme disease sometime in May called "Under our Skin." I've already seen it, but it will give the public so much information regarding this disease. I'll keep you posted as to when it will be on TV. I do want to encourage all of you, if you know someone who has unexplained pain or unexplained neurological symptoms to at least have them get tested for Lyme. This is a widespread disease. Many doctors do not wish to treat for Lyme because of the controversy of it. Some doctors have had their medical license suspended for treatment of it. It's all in the documentary as to the whys. Because of this, many doctors don't want to touch Lyme with a 10 foot pole. That is what we have been experiencing with Emily. Doctors here will treat her for fibromyalgia and pain but not Lyme. We've been involved with a Lyme support group here in New Mexico that has been wonderful. I've done lots of research on doctors. Because of all the controversy with Lyme doctors do not accept insurance so we are paying totally out of our pocket.

This leads me to the next request. We have the money set aside for our trip and the expenses we know for the doctor's visit. So this is not a pity request. But, if any of your have been thinking about ordering some Scentsy and you do not have a Scentsy consultant, would you be so kind to consider ordering it from my Scentsy website. I would appreciate it so much. Of course any and all orders are appreciated. If by chance you and several friends are getting together and your order is $150 or more, send me a private e-mail basketmaster_nancy@yahoo.com and let me know. I'll put the order into the website on my end as a home party. You will get at least 2 half price items and 10 to 15% in free merchandise. You also receive free shipping and handling and it comes right to your home. If you've ever thought about joining Scentsy, my team is fantastic with support. We have monthly team meetings via Skype so long distance consultants are included. and we support each other 110%. We are really a great team. Again, just e-mail me and if you leave your phone number I'll call you right back and answer any and all of your questions. That's enough of a plug here.

Anyway, God is Great and Prayer is Powerful! Please pray for my dad and Emily and if your church has a prayer list, would you kindly add them to it as well.

I love you guys and if you need any prayers, please ask! My family and I would love to pray for you as well.

Hugs and Blessings,

Nancy

Back to Basics in Basket Weaving - Creating a Professional Finish

2011-04-11T17:50:00.002-06:00

Before cutting and tucking your spokes, fold down the spokes that are to go to the inside of the basket. Measure those spokes so that when you cut them, the end will be hidden behind one of your weavers. The goal is not to have any rough ends showing to give you a professional look. This way, when someone is looking at your basket, they do not know where pieces of reed have started and where they have ended.When tucking your spokes in, try to go under the very top weaver. Again, this gives a more professional look to your basket. Take a look at the finished product. You don't see the spoke hidden behind the weaver. I always say, this is a big difference between our beautiful handwoven baskets and those that we purchase at the store.
Happy Weaving,

Nancy

My Lenten Resolution - Teaching Adults

2011-03-09T08:46:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,

Today is Ash Wednesday. It is an important day on the Christian calendar as it is the beginning of Lent. It is a time of preparation for Easter the highest of Holy Days. It is a time of repentance and prayer. Many people use this season to give up something as a sacrifice and to offer that sacrifice up to God or use this time an a manner that will grow them closer to Him. I am again teaching religion this year to first graders and I speak to them about Lent and having a Lenten resolution. Those children can come up with some thoughtful answers. "I'm going to share my toys every day." "I'm going to help my mother every day with chores." "I'm going to pray every day." Some I'm sure have heard their parents speak about what they are doing for lent and will say, "I'm not going to watch TV," "I'm not going to eat candy," and so on. I really stress to them, and to my own children that this is a time not just of sacrifice, but a time to keep Christ first and foremost in our thoughts and in our actions. It is a time to work on becoming closer to Christ and becoming a better person.

Last year I worked on truly being obedient to my husband and putting him first above myself. You know what? Our marriage is stronger now than EVER! Mike has noticed the little things I've done for him because I continued that resolution past Lent and throughout the year. He has appreciated me and my works!

I've given quite a bit of thought this past month as to what my Lenten resolution would be this year and I feel a real pulling to work on teaching adults about our Loving Savior. This is taking me out of my comfort zone let me tell you. It is one thing to teach children. Their questions are simple. It is another thing to teach adults! I'm not even sure how God wants me to do this but I am placing my trust in Him and I am going to move forward the best I can. I have been so saddened by the breakdown of families and homes in our society. With my three children being teenagers I see the hurt their friends experience coming from broken homes. I believe that faith in our Lord strengthens the home and can help prevent homes from crumbling. Faith in Jesus should be the foundation in which every home is built upon.

So every day, I'm going to pray about my resolution regarding teaching and do my best to take steps in teaching adults about Christ and asking the Holy Spirit to guide me as to where I can be of service to Him.

My desire through this resolution this year is that I pray those who have do not know Christ can in some way be influenced by me to accept Him and through Him strengthen their homes and families. It is also that as I teach adults that I too wish to learn more about Christ and His Glorious Mysteries. God loves each of us so much, I just want the world to know.

Have you made a Lenten resolution? I'd love to hear what you chose this year.
with Love and God's Blessings,
Nancy

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

Some fun heart shaped baskets for Valentine's day

Another heart shaped basket.

For those of you who have asked how to make the heart shape, look closely at the base of the basket in this bottom photo. It is almost a square isn't it. Weave a square base and then un-weave one of the corners. Twine around the heart shaped base and then upset the sides. Use lots of clothespins for the first few rows because you re going around a lot of corners. Those extra clothespins are your extra hands.

Hope you all have a very Happy Valentine's day. I see my kiddo's have put some chocolates on the kitchen table with my name on them!!!

I'm going to be making them some chocolate covered strawberries a little later this morning.

Blessings everyone,
Nancy

An Award! Prayers for Others and an Emily Update

2011-02-05T23:44:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends,
Mike is quietly doing the taxes with an occasional grumble under his breath. I think I've gathered all the paperwork for him that I can so I have some time to sit and write a post.

First I have to thank Paula for the Award. Thank You!!! Paula blogs over at Crop Notes and Crafts and we are like kindred spirits. We both have a love of basket weaving, paper crafting and other hobbies. If you haven't been to her blog then it is high time you visit her. She also makes the best video tutorials of her work.

With the award I'm supposed to tell eight things about myself. Hmmmm.....What have I not told you about myself? I feel like I've shared so much about me already. Well, here goes.

1. When we lived in Florida I sang with the Sweet Adelines for a short time.
2. I'm allergic to cats. I love cats just my nose doesn't.
3. I've been working on my photography skills. I own a nice point and shoot camera and I've never really taken the time to figure out and appreciate all its features. Photography is something I want to get into more.
4. Spring is my very favorite season and I know it is just around the corner. I love the colors and the gardening and just getting to spend time outside.
5. My sewing machine is a machine I got when I was in high school, a Bernina Minimatic that my parents bought used. It has 8 stitches. It's over 30 years old and still sews up a storm. (I'm actually in the process of looking for a new machine, I would like one that does monogramming. Any suggestions?)
6. I love all the books of the Bible, especially the gospels, but probably my all time favorite book is Ecclesiastes. It is kind of like the book of Proverbs and is just full of wonderful information.
7.  One of my favorite television shows is "Biggest Loser".
8.  My all time hands down favorite food is seafood, in particular shrimp. Oh yum.

Now I'm just going to open this wonderful little award up to all of you my friends. I'm really supposed to pick 8 blogs, but I'm so glad you are all here and reading each and every one of you can accept this award. I am going to direct you to a couple of blogs though that have really touched my heart lately and these blog owners NEED our prayers.

The first is The Simple Wife. Joanne is 38 years old and has just recently, as in just a few weeks ago, had a massive stroke. They didn't know if she would make it but she is now in a long term care facility and was able to make the "I Love You" sign with her hand. She has two young girls who are younger than mine and her husband has been keeping us up-to-date on her blog with daily posts.  Joanne's blog will have you in tears. She is such a beautiful Christian woman. I know God is going to use this experience for his good but she surely is going through some tough times right now.

The second is New Nostalgia. Amy is another young Christian mom with two young children and she has been battling breast cancer. I had told her I was doing the Think Pink raffle last year. Amy was diagnosed with stage 3 or 4 breast cancer and it has been an emotional journey for her.

Third is a fun blog I just stumbled upon. Prairie Flower Farm. What excites me so much is Linda, the author of the blog lives just minutes from where I grew up and where my parents still live. She has relatives in a nursing home where I got my first job in nursing. The places she shows on her blog are so familiar to me. Not only that, her country style is my country style. Her blog is so fun and pretty and the photography is beautiful. Did you know my parents still live in the same house they bought before I was born?!! I should have put that tidbit in the about me section above.

Now an update on Emily. She does have Hashimoto's Disease. That is a fact. She does have a Vitamin D deficiency. That too is a fact. One doctor says she has Lyme disease. Another doctor isn't so sure. Emily is still in pain. Things always seem to change with her. Over the past 6 weeks she has complained that her ear is "staticy" and she is nauseous all the time with motion sickness. That sounds like an inner ear thing to me.

Right now the only thing I'm doing differently is some high potency vitamins and I've put her on a gluten free diet. This is from my own reading and I'm surprised at the different places I've read that talk about the connection of being gluten sensitive and getting Vitamin D deficient as well as getting Hashimoto's disease. I hope putting her on this alleviates some of her symptoms. I've only started the gluten free diet two weeks ago and this may take some time to see any results but I am sure hopeful and I know God is Great.

Please keep my sweet Emily on your prayer list. We are ever so grateful for your prayers. This has been going on too long and she is too young to be in such pain and now with nausea some days life is just miserable for that sweet child. She manages her schooling with good grades but most free time is spent in bed resting and sleeping. She will often nap for 2 plus hours in the afternoon along with 10 hours at night. This is another one of those instances in which I believe God is going to use this for a greater picture that we just cannot see yet. Thank you so much for all of you who are praying for Emily. Thank you too for those of you who have sent me e-mails with ideas on what it might be or what may help. I look into each and every one of them. Thank you!!!!

Hugs and Blessings to you all,
Nancy

One Thousand Gifts

2011-01-18T06:33:00.005-07:00

If you have just 4 minutes, take the time to watch this beautiful video.

Relish the moments this day will bring and the sweet memories of moments gone before.

I ordered my copy of the book yesterday from Dayspring. I can't wait to read it. There has been such great words and comments about it on the internet.
Blessings,
Nancy

One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are

Published by Zondervan

Come join the community taking the dare to LIVE FULLY

http://www.onethousandgifts.com/

http://www.aholyexperience.com/

Merry Christmas and a little about 2011

2010-12-23T04:00:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends,
A very Merry and Blessed Christmas to each of you.
It is my hopes and prayers that 2011 treats all of you with good health and many joyous days.

You've noticed, I'm sure, that this blog has quieted down. It is my fault as both my time and interests have been pulled in other directions. I hope you understand.

I'll be taking a hiatus from this blog for a while posting only when I find something pressing or worth your time to read.

This blog will remain open and I do read each and every comment. You can always e-mail me anytime.

Like I said, I'll post from time to time so I hope you do pop in once in a while to see what is going on and to say hello.

Thank you for all the wonderful e-mails you have sent me and for those of you who have sent pictures of your baskets, thank you as I have loved seeing your work. You can e-mail me a picture any time and know that I'm cheering you on.

My life at this time is full, blessed and busy. It is good. I'm keeping the household running as smoothly as possible. Please continue to keep our sweet Emily in your prayers. If your church has a prayer chain, I would truly appreciate it if you would add her name to your list. She is a good kiddo and manages to babysit, work a few hours a week at a concession stand and attend school with good grades. She does this all in pain and it is very discouraging for her at times as she doesn't see an end in site. We're pursuing with treatment through a pediatric infectious disease specialist but it is soooooo sloooowwww. They question is it really Lyme's disease. It puts us back at square one for a while as they do more testing, but God is great and I know he has big plans for that little girl. I often wake up in the middle of the night and pray for hours for her and all who are suffering. Even so, life is good and precious. God bless you for remembering her. Our other children are fine and busy with activities. Mike has a good job so we have much to be thankful for.

Be sure to take some time with your family and remember the real reason for the season that Jesus our Savior came to earth to wash away our sins so that we may have life everlasting in His holy presence.

Merry Christmas,
With love and blessings to each of you,
Nancy

Basket Weaving Tip - Balancing the Weight of your Basket

2010-12-08T18:59:00.001-07:00

Good morning Friends,
In watching my YouTube videos you have heard me say as you weave each row, rotate your basket approximately 90 degrees when you start the next row. This is with basic start-and-stop weaving (not continuous weaving). The reason I say as you begin to weave the next row to give your basket a 90 degree turn is to do the starting and stopping in various areas of the basket, not all in the same area. The location where you start-and-stop adds just a bit more weight to a basket and can add a very tiniest of bulge with the extra thickness of reed. Your basket will sit better if the weight of the reed is distributed around all sides of the basket.

There is one exception to the rule-of-thumb above. When you are weaving a wall basket, you may do all you start-and-stops on the back side of the basket. This way, the front side of your basket will be perfectly flat and pretty. Any extra weight or even slight bulge will never be noticed on the back side of your basket.

One final note...As you do your rim, on the inside and outside of your basket, do make sure the overlap is in two different areas of your basket. I usually place my overlap on opposite sides of the basket again to balance the weight and look. If I know one side of my basket will be facing outward where most people will view it, I do not place the outside overlap on the viewing side of the basket.

In the photo above, where I have my arrows, is where I've overlapped the rim. As you look at this basket head on like this, you do not notice the overlaps, as both the inside and the outside pieces of rim overlap in the direction to the BACK side of the basket. This way, you do not see the cut end of my reed which happens to be 1/2" flat/oval.
This is just one more simple basket weaving technique to give your basket that high quality you're after vs. one that is rapidly mass produced.
One more thing. This is my Kitchen Counter Basket and I have the free pattern for you HERE.
Happy Weaving Everyone,
Nancy

It's Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas!

2010-11-21T06:45:00.003-07:00

Dear Friends,
How does the time just slip away? I've been getting the house ready for Christmas. I want it to be done by Thanksgiving. That may seem early, but I want to enjoy the season and all its beauty and by having the decorating done is one less thing for me to think about!

I took my sweet Santa boot that I wove last year out of the closet a couple of days ago. It is sitting on a table near the front door and I put big candy canes in it. Cute! The pattern for this is Julie Deen's. If you haven't been to her site in a while, it's time you popped over to see some of her latest works. She has the most beautiful egg basket and has woven it with fabric! I love it! Julie is so creative.

Remember last year Julie sent me this angel? It has been on my kitchen windowsill all year. Now it sits among some Christmas greenery and pine cones. Super Sweet!

Anyway, are any of you getting ready for Christmas? Last night the kids made chocolate covered pretzels. Yum!!! Of course we have to have those as a snack on Thanksgiving day.

Emily has started seeing an endocrinologist for her Hashimoto's and Vitamin D deficiency. That has meant more lab work for her. Poor kiddo is a pin cushion these days. After Thanksgiving she gets in with pediatric infectious disease about the chronic lyme disease. I really believe God is shining and getting her going in the right direction.

I also started with a company called Rendi. So now I have two small businesses, Rendi and Scentsy. Rendi is personalized home decor and is a brand new direct sales company that just launched October 1st of this year. It's actually a sister company of Danieleson Designs which has been around 20 years. I feel I'm on the ground floor with it and much can be done on the internet for it so I don't anticipate it taking as much time as Scentsy (which has been keeping me pleasantly hopping). I'm really pressing forward with getting the mortgage paid off on the house. Hallelujah when that happens!

Have a blessed Sunday. Hope you are all healthy, we've been getting over colds here, and hope all is going well in your part of the world.

Love and hugs,

Nancy

An Emily Update - Finally Some News!

2010-11-08T18:05:00.002-07:00

Dear Friends,
If you've been reading this blog for some time, you know my sweet Emily, age 15 1/2 was struck with fibromyalgia beginning about a year and a half ago. There are two schools of thought with fibro. The first is that it is its own disease. The second is that fibro is a symptom of something else going on in the body. I choose to believe the second because I want to believe we can "fix" her.

We have been to so many doctors and specialists. The pediatric rheumatology/fibromyalgia specialist that she sees has tried everything in his bag of tricks. I've tried everything that has been sent or told to me. Nothing has worked and all lab results, exams, and testing have come back normal. Until now...

We had been referred to a medical office that does more alternative therapies of medicine. We first went a couple of months ago. Emily first saw a nurse practitioner who spent about an hour and a half going over EVERYTHING regarding Emily's fibro history. She ordered some blood tests. I thought to myself, Emily has been tested for everything under the sun already. The nurse practitioner said I had to go to a specific lab because this is the only lab in the city/state to run some of these specific tests. While I wait the 6 weeks for the tests, Emily has been back to this clinic for massage, healing touch, she's started yoga, and will soon begin acupuncture.

This morning was our follow-up visit after 6 weeks. Would you believe there were some lab abnormalities? I was shocked. She, the nurse practitioner, spent an hour with us again today and there were three significant findings. The first thing she said is that Emily has Hashimoto's disease. This is a disease of the thyroid, the antibodies that the thyroid produces, that is not treatable, but is pain causing. (Emily's thyroid is functioning properly, just not the antibodies it is producing) I also question if the other two issues get resolved that possibly the Hashimotos will resolve itself??? Maybe??

Another abnormality that was VERY low was a specialized Vitamin D test. Not your standard test and Emily has started today on some medication to bring that up. Low test results here cause pain.

The third abnormality is something that could be carried by ticks. Not Lyme disease, but related. It has something to do with her lymph system and according to the nurse, there is only one doctor who treats for this specific issue in the United States and that doctor is in Kansas City. Again, this was a specialized test and Emily's results were VERY low. She thinks these three things are all interrelated and all causing her pain. She also thinks it will take a year once treatment begins for Emily to start feeling better. Back to the tick thing. Emily had been bitten by a tick. (I don't remember the nurse asking us about ticks at the first visit and I didn't even think of it at the time.) She was bitten back when we lived in Florida. The nurse practitioner thinks that it is possible that Emily has carried something in her body that has remained dormant. Then when she got very sick 1 1/2 year ago, high fever and so forth at the time all this fibromyalgia started, what was dormant in her body became active starting her pain.

So what happens next...Emily is now on super high doses of Vitamin D that we've started today. The nurse practitioner asked her to start the Paleo diet, Emily calls it a cave man diet. I got the book and we are starting it tomorrow. Tonight I research this doctor in Kansas City and begin the process there. Emily continues with yoga, massage, healing touch and accupuncture. Whew....

I have been elated today to hear news that I'm hoping and praying will take us in the right direction with her. I've been watching the television show "Mystery Diagnosis" faithfully to see if any of their cases are similar to Emily's. There was a case of Hashimotos on the show. I remember thinking, well Emily doesn't have anything wrong with her thyroid as it is functioning properly so I didn't pay much attention to that episode. I'll have to go back and watch it now. The final thing is that the nurse practitioner wants Emily to have some counseling. Emily is such a sweet and loving girl, but as you can imagine, being in pain every day takes a toll on her both physically and mentally. Sometimes it is hard mentally for her mommy here to know that my child is in pain, but we take it day by day.

So with all this said, please Please keep Emily in your prayers that we are doing the right things and finally getting her the help that she needs to remove this pain from her body. Also please pray that she has the strength to deal with the pain until we get it resolved.

With love and blessings,
Nancy
(Update) Upon further research regarding Emily's lab tests, it appears that she has Chronic Lyme Disease. So much was given to me earlier that it is all hard to digest. The more I read, the more I find people first being diagnosed with fibromyalgia for years only to discover that they have had chronic lyme disease. Could it be that this has been her problem all along? Now, what about the Viatmin D and Hashimotos?

Happy Halloween! and Share a Basket Sunday

2010-10-31T08:57:00.002-06:00

I made this witch basket years ago at a basket guild meeting. I wish I had a better photo of it but I have given this basket away. The rim is interesting as it is a "rolled border". I sewed the arms and the hat came from the doll department at a craft store. It is not my design. This pattern is titled "Hagetha" and the author is Wanda Grahm.

Have a Blessed Sunday and Happy Halloween,
Nancy

Free Basket Weaving Pattern

2010-10-28T15:54:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends,
Here is a beautiful pattern called Lines Of Autumn by Jennifer Rhodes. It is a large market basket that uses a 10 x 12 D handle and space dyed reed in "autumn" color, This pattern is available from http://www.basketweavingsupplies.com/ and you can link directly to it HERE. They also have the kit available for purchase for $23.95. It's not a basket for the brand new weaver yet it is a beginner level. Once you have a few baskets under your belt, give this pretty basket a whirl. The space dyed reed in it is stunning.
Happy Weaving!
Nancy

A Fun Use for Extra Wire Handles

2010-10-21T13:14:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
This project came across my e-mail and I want to share it with you. You know I like crafting of all sorts, but I thought even all of you basket weavers would enjoy something different that you can do with your supplies.

If you teach classes like me, you may have a surplus of an item. I'm always ordering extra handles for my classes. I want to have extra handles on hand because someone always says they would like a kit to make the same project again at home. Soooo..... if you have some of these sweet wire handles, these are the ones that you get with the eyes and ears, also sometimes called spool handles, you can do a fun craft project with them. These happen to be three inch handles.

Here is the link to the project that comes from Crafts 'N Things.
Enjoy!
Nancy

Thank You....Drum Roll....Winners!!!!!

2010-10-15T22:07:00.001-06:00

Oh Dear Friends,
I am so happy and I've seriously got tears in my eyes as I type this. The grand total is $226 that we raised for the Susan G. Komen foundation. Every single penny that was donated is going to this worthy cause. Mike and I have covered any PayPal fees and shipping. I'm so happy for all your generosity. I feel honored to call you all my friends.

I've got to tell you a quick story that happened to me in Walmart just 2 days ago. I was shopping and had picked up a flyer with a pink ribbon product and the flyer was sitting in my basket. A lady near me was telling her adult daughter to get a bunch of celery. I just commented, "Oh I'm glad you mentioned that because I need celery too and had forgotten to put it on my list. Thanks for jogging my memory." The daughter looked over at me and saw the flyer in my basket, mentioned it and a brief conversation ensued. I told them that every women in my family has suffered or passed on from breast cancer. The mother said she had just been diagnosed and tears formed in her eyes. I wanted to say that I'm trying here to help with the fight against it. All I could say is, "I'm so sorry and my family will keep you in our prayers." This disease hits every family and it is heart wrenching. I want to say to all of you, Thank you, thank you thank you all for your generosity. Thank you to those of you who provided prizes. Thank you to those of you who donated money and thank you to all of you who have been praying for a cure. With all my heart I love each of you.

So without further ado....can you hear the drum roll...............................................

The second place winner of the Lia Sophia necklace and Earring set is.....................

Kumon!!!!!

The winner of the grand prize of the basket, Scentsy warmer and fragrance, hand woven scarf, Stampin' Up supplies, Lia Sophia necklace, crochet tote, handmade journal and pink ribbon Bible is....................

Susan Zak!!!!!

I will be contacting both of you and your prizes will be on their way this week!!!! The check to the Susan G. Komen foundation will also be sent this week.
I'm so happy for both of you! I'm so happy for our efforts and what we have all accomplished together!!!
The final thing I want to say is PLEASE LADIES do not neglect to do those monthly self breast examinations. Early detection is the best prevention.
God Bless each and every one of you!
With love,
Nancy

Final Call for Think Pink Donations

2010-10-13T20:01:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
Friday is the big day when I draw for the winners of our Think Pink Raffle. If you've been saying I'll get to donating tomorrow, well, tomorrow is almost here. Please, please let your friends know that this is it. Shout it out to your friends. Let it be known on Facebook, your blog, twitter or any other social network site. The farther we spread the word, the more money that will be raised.

Be sure to take a moment and look at all the prizes shown below. Let me tell you, because I can see them in person here, they are all stunningly beautiful!

One lucky winner is going to get an amazing “THINK PINK” prize package!

The prize package will include:

Pink Pot of Hope basket woven by me

Matching pink set of Stampin' Up supplies from CJ at Tea n' Stitches

Pink Sentsy warmer and fragrance from Naomi at Sentsy

Handwoven scarf from Bety at Deep End of the Loom

Lia Sophia "Pink Flamingo" necklace from Faith

A Beautiful Pink Ribbon Bible, Handmade Pink Journal and Crochet Tote Bag from Julie at A Handwoven Life

---------------------------------------------------------

A second lucky winner will receive this beautiful Lia Sophia necklace and earring set also from my friend Faith.

Raffle entries are $1.00 per “ticket” and can be purchased through PayPal (see "Donate" button in the sidebar)

Please be generous. This is a cause very near and dear to my heart as I've lost a grandmother and an aunt to breast cancer and my mother and other women in my family are breast cancer survivors. This disease affects many of us.

For those of you who have already donated, for those of you who have provided the prizes, and for those of you who have advertised this charity raffle, I thank you with all my heart.
God bless.

Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday (make that Friday oops) - Fall Leaf Bread Basket

2010-10-08T04:00:00.002-06:00

Is it getting cooler in your neck of the woods? It is here. I'm waking up to temperatures in the low 60's and it feels so good. I love having a cup of hot coffee out on my patio with some crisp air. It is perfect for sitting down and reading.

With this basket you can get ready for fall! This basket is great for using your scraps. Just grab your leftover reed in autumn colors and away you go. Take a close look. The handles are made from the stakes on each end of the basket. They are looped over each other.
As I lashed on the rim, I just included a garland of fall leaves. This basket holds a loaf of bread perfectly!
Baskets of blessings,
Nancy

Make Your Own Reed Diffuser

2010-10-05T20:33:00.000-06:00

Have you seen the reed diffusers? They are sold many places these days and some are quite costly. They're reed! Good ol' basket weaving reed! You can make your own for pennies in comparison to what they cost in the stores.

Just use #6 round reed and cut to the desired length. You can use your scraps here. Place in a narrow mouth bottle. My bottle is from a vinegar and oil set that I got at Walmart. You can also get potpourri oil at Walmart as well. Mine is a potpourri gel that I got at a home candle party that I went to. Just fill the bottle with the potpourri fragrance, insert the reed and tie on a pretty ribbon. I also hot glued a small flower embellishment to mine. I made several of these to give as gifts and they are always greatly appreciated.

A bonus craft you can see in my photo of the reed diffuser. This photo is taken in my bathroom. I got some pretty, smooth glass blue rocks and used a clear epoxy to glue them to the wall in my bathroom. The blue rocks and epoxy also came from Walmart's craft department. I like the pretty bling it adds in there.

What other ways do you use up your scrap reed?

Baskets of blessings to you all,

Nancy

German Basket Weaving Festival Part 3

2010-09-28T08:08:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,

Here is the last of my scrapbooking photos from the basket weaving festival held in Lichtenfels, Germany.

Enjoy!!!

Nancy

My sweet babies.

They are now teenagers!

I want my babies back!!!

Look at that woven basket behind them.

The stage where the basket queen and king are crowned and where the music is played.

Lots of tables for some great food and beer.

Crowded streets.

Think Pink Update

2010-09-23T08:34:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,

I wanted to give you an update on our Think Pink raffle for the fight against breast cancer. We are standing at $110.00!!! I am very excited about this and I want to thank all of you. Donations have slowed down so I wanted to remind you that the raffle continues through October 15, 2010. I've said before and I'll say it again that this is a cause that is near and dear to my heart and I want to do all I can to help find a cure. Be assured that every penny you donate is going to the Susan G. Komen foundation. My husband and I are covering any paypal fees and shipping of the wonderful prizes. Every cent of your donation goes to the fight against breast cancer.

To see the prizes donated, please go to this post HERE. They are beautiful!!!!!

To enter into the raffle, click on the paypal "donate" button on the right hand sidebar. Every $1 is a "ticket" for the raffle. Thank you so much again for your generosity.

One more thing I ask of all of you....Please pray for all the women and their families affected with this disease. Cancer is a difficult thing to deal with both physically and emotionally. The women affected are both young and old, but all of them have family and loved ones and all are hurting who are going through this. They NEED our prayers.

With Hugs and Blessings to each of you and thank you again,

Love,

Nancy

Basket Weaving Festival This Weekend - Part 2

2010-09-17T06:25:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,

Today I have more pictures to show you from Lichtenfels, Germany at their basket weaving festival.

Their woven variation of a Bavarian pretzel.

These are woven lamps. Very cool.

The organ grinder's hat is woven!

Let me try and describe some of the setting here with what you can't see in the pictures. I tell you, in Germany, they can turn everything into a party and this is one of those instances. It is like a huge party down their main street. The band is playing, loud. Think polka band here. The beer is flowing, some people are dancing, and the chatter among people is contagious. There is a huge tent in the middle of the street where you can get not only your German beer, but pretzels, shcnitzel (a fried pork patty covered in sauce), wurst (sausages) and the most amazing pastries you've ever eaten over by the kaffee (coffee) shop. There is even a young man and women in the city that they crown the king and queen of the festival!

More to come!

Nancy

Basket Weaving Festival This Weekend - Part 1

2010-09-14T07:59:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
I've been waiting until this week to share these pictures with you. It is time to get ready for the Basket Weaving Festival at Lichtenfels, Germany. It is known as the Korbmarkt. Korb = Basket and Markt = Market. It is held annually the third weekend in September. When we lived in Germany I was fortunate to get to go three different years. Lichtenfels was about a two hour drive from my home south of Munich.

Let me explain that in Germany, different cities or locations are known for developing and creating some of the beautiful things we see today. For instance, cookoo-clocks come from one main city in Germany where they people go to learn and perfect their craft. The same goes with making baskets. In Lichtenfels, there is a basket weaving school where those wanting to study and master the art of basket weaving go to learn.

So each year, students and professionals sell their wares at a street fair along their main street. I hope this week you will enjoy pictures that I've taken while we were there. I've pulled them out of my scrapbook album as I had taken these pictures before we had a digital camera. I hope you find inspiration through them.

You are a Basket Weaving Addict If...

2010-09-10T07:54:00.000-06:00

This has been circulating around the internet. The best I can determine is the original author is Kim Renich, weaver, basket designer and pattern writer. Enjoy this bit of basket humor.

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

You know you're addicted to basket weaving if... by Kim Renich
(Nancy's comments are in parenthesis)

You have patterns you bought 2 years ago that you've never made!
You've bought the same pattern twice without realizing you already had it!
You have more than one tape measure! (and you've snipped a tape measure while cutting stakes)
You've snipped a "V" in the tip of your finger while cutting a stake! (I've done this! Yikes it hurt!)
You have half finished baskets that you know you'll never finish but can't bear to throw out!
You weave until you discover a problem and then go back and read the directions!
Your basket supplies get the biggest closet in the house!
Your shirts have dye splatters on them!
You have so many patterns that you've alphabetized them!
You've cut up at least one basket
You hope your husband doesn't ask you how much you spent in class that night! (or online at the basket shop)
And...You know you're addicted to baskets if every room in your house has a basket in it!

Think Pink Raffle begins Now!

2010-09-02T13:35:00.008-06:00

Dear Friends,

You've been reading about it for months and I'm excited to say that today is the official start of my “THINK PINK” raffle! As you know, October is Breast Cancer awareness month, so all money donated will go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research.

One lucky winner is going to get an amazing “THINK PINK” prize package!

The prize package will include:

Pink Pot of Hope basket woven by me

Matching pink set of Stampin' Up supplies from CJ at Tea n' Stitches

Pink Sentsy warmer and fragrance from Naomi at Sentsy

Handwoven scarf from Bety at Deep End of the Loom

Lia Sophia "Pink Flamingo" necklace from Faith

A Beautiful Pink Ribbon Bible, Handmade Pink Journal and Crochet Tote Bag from Julie at A Handwoven Life

---------------------------------------------------------

A second lucky winner will receive this beautiful Lia Sophia necklace and earing set also from my friend Faith. I just received this beautiful jewelry for the raffle this morning so I want to take a moment to thank my dear personal friend and fellow basket weaving buddy. Combined the jewelry is over a $95 value. Thank you so much Faith. You are truly special to me.

Raffle entries are $1.00 per “ticket” and can be purchased through PayPal (see "Donate" button in the sidebar)

The drawing will take place October 15, 2010.

Please be generous. This is a cause very near and dear to my heart as I've lost a grandmother and an aunt to breast cancer and my mother and other women in my family are breast cancer survivors. This disease affects many of us.

I would also be very appreciative if you would let others know about my “THINK PINK” raffle. Please write a blog post about this charity event and link back here. How about letting your Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking friends know about this so they can share the news with their friends? The farther we can spread the word, the more money we can raise.

With all your help this can be a wonderful success.

Thank you and God bless.

Nancy

Update - I just received Julie's donation of a beautiful Pink Ribbon Bible, Handmade Pink Journal and Crochet Tote Bag. Julie made the journal and tote bag herself and her work is amazing. What a beautiful addition to our prize package. Thank you so much Julie!!! Julie blogs over at A Handwoven Life and has a basket weaving website Deen Homestead Basketry.

Basket Weaving Handle Substitutions

2010-09-01T10:16:00.000-06:00

Here is a photo of a swing handle and two small ears that go with the swing handle. The small ears get woven down into the basket and the loops of them go through the holes in the big handle. The loops are just above the basket so this enables the handle to swing back and forth. If you've broken an ear, it is possible to just buy a single "U" handle to replace it. You might have to sand the new small "U" handle to make it thinner to fit in the hole of the swing handle. If you've broken your swing handle, heaven forbid, you can use the small ears as handles themselves, as a handle on the back of a wall basket or use both at the ends of a bread basket or smaller muffin basket.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy
ps. Think Pink officially starts tomorrow!

Share a Basket sunday

2010-08-29T09:14:00.000-06:00

Good Morning Friends,

The basket I wove here has a 9" square wooden handle as one of the spokes. It looks rectangular in the photo, but it is square. I used 11/64" accents in hunter green, burgundy and navy blue in the basket and used all three of them again in the braided handle.

Today is our church picnic. The weather has been wonderful lately yet in the late afternoon, the clouds often roll in with showers. We're hoping for no rain this afternoon. Hope the weather is lovely wherever you are.

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

Think Pink Raffle - Last Call for all Prizes

2010-08-25T11:48:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and my Think Pink Raffle is getting ready to go into full swing. If there are any of you wanting to donate prizes, please get them to me ASAP. I'll send you my mailing address privately. You may contact me at basketmaster_nancy@yahoo.com Starting in September the raffle will begin. You can read more about the raffle HERE.
Remember all money raised will go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the cure against breast cancer. Thank you to everyone who has contributed and helping to make this a success.
Blessings to you all,
Nancy

2010-08-22T04:00:00.000-06:00

Hope you all are having a wonderful weekend. This basket is a tiny wall basket using 3/8" stakes. The little curls are pieces of reed that are twisted and woven in after the basket is completed. Enjoy!

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

Creating Custom Colors for Dying Reed

2010-08-19T21:13:00.000-06:00

As many of you know, I use Rit Dye to dye my reed. Have you been to Rit's website to see all the beautiful colors that are available? Did you know that you can create your own custom colors with their custom color recipes? Be sure to check out the site when you are getting ready to dye your reed so you can get just the perfect color. Rit gives very specific recipes for many custom colors. You can just follow their color recipe along with my directions for dying reed that I gave HERE on this previous post.

When you are looking for places to purchase Rit dye, you can find it in stores such as Walmart and Target in the laundry section. Also many grocery stores sell rit dye with their laundry detergent. Keep your eyes open for it at fabric stores like JoAnns and Hancock Fabrics. Finally, sometimes you can get a great deal on it at places like Tuesday Mornings or Big Lots. It's out there and it's available if you just know where to find it. Also, if you are lucky enough to get some at a garage sale, grab it. I've personally not found it to expire and the colors still come out beautiful. I do buy mine in the powder form on most occasions just because it is less expensive than the liquid.

So try a custom color sometime. When you do, be sure to send me an e-mail and post a picture of it. I'd love to see how your custom colors turn out.

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

Around the House Saturday and Fright Night

2010-08-14T04:00:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends,
How has your summer been? It has been very busy around the Jacobs' household the past three months and I must confess, I am glad school has started this past week. Over the summer we took a trip to Kansas to visit my family. My mother celebrated her 80th birthday in June. We also celebrated the birthday's of all my kids and all three are now teenagers! Mike and I had our 22nd wedding anniversary, I had my birthday and we had many visitors staying with us. Mike and Tim were also fortunate to get to attend the National Scout Jamboree near Washington DC. This was the 100 year of Boy Scouts. It has been one thing after another here and I'm ready for a slow season before the holidays.

Something else that has been cool is the remaking of the movie "Fright Night" here. For the past two weeks they have been filming in my neighborhood. One of the girls' friends even got to be an extra. I must confess, I'm not familiar with the actors/actresses in the movie, but still it has been exciting to see all that has been involved in a real movie production just a few blocks from my house. They film from 7 PM to 5 AM. They want the night time setting, but boy they sure use a lot of lights. One thing is for sure, there is an immense amount of set up and prep work and only a little amount of "action". You can only imagine all the set up of lights, props, filters cranes and other things and even a rain machine. I hope the movie is a success with good ratings. Below is a bit from the Associated Press about the movie.

RIO RANCHO, N.M. (AP) - A remake of the 1985 horror and comedy film "Fright Night" has begun filming in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho.
Work will continue through October. State officials say the DreamWorks production is expected to employ about 175 New Mexico residents as cast and crew.

Gov. Bill Richardson says New Mexico's film industry has shown it is versatile enough to handle any kind of production or genre - including vampire films.

"Fright Night" is the story of a teenage boy who is convinced his neighbor is a vampire.

The remake stars Colin Farrell, Toni Collette, Anton Yelchin, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse. It will be directed by Craig Gillespie and produced by Michael De Luca and Alison R. Rosenzweig.

I wish I could say that I've been weaving. I could give you a hundred excuses such as it's been too hot, or company or this or that, but I haven't woven since June. I had every intention of doing some more YouTube videos this summer but that didn't happen either. Hopefully this fall will give me a boost in creativity.

My garden is looking good and we are enjoying the fruits of my labor. There is nothing better than home grown tomatoes and roasted veges like zucchini and eggplant.

Basket Weaving - Facts about Twining

2010-08-11T19:51:00.002-06:00

Twining--A basketry technique using two or more sets of elements in which one set encircles the other.

Did you know that the first use of 'twining' was probably to hold twigs and sticks together to construct shelter walls?

Twining has also been used in ancient times by people as they spaced out twined rows to make traps and fish nets. They spaced their twined rows closer together to make lightweight baskets.

Stiff twining materials include: reed, rattan, cane, ropes, stiff grasses and stems of plants.

Flexible materials for twining include: cords, twine, jute and yarn among others.

I use twining on most every basket. On round or oval baskets I use twining to form the base. On square or rectangular baskets I use twining to stabilize the base and this keeps the base's shape. On some baskets, I will use twining on the sides for an interesting visual element.

You can begin by crimping one piece of material on itself and twining with just that one piece. You may also twine with two pieces of similar elements. An interesting technique is to use two pieces of the same size reed but have they dyed different colors and twining with the two colors. This is very pretty.

Enjoy twining and Happy Basket Weaving,

Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday - Kitchen Utensil Basket

2010-08-08T04:00:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
This is my old kitchen utensil basket. Since this picture was taken I have since cut it off it's wooden base. It received so much use that it finally got holes poked in the reed from the utensil handles! The cross stitch design and the lashing on the rim are made from space dyed reed.

Remember, baskets can last many, many years with care, but when you use one as roughly as I used this, there are times to say good-bye to them. If you have a wooden base such as on this basket, or a wooden handle, cut the reed off the base or the handle and many times the wooden parts can be used again. It is those wooden parts that are expensive and they can be used on another basket.

Baskets of Blessings,
Nancy

Today's Hand(y) Basket Weaving Tip

2010-08-04T08:05:00.000-06:00

My hands can get so dry and having them in reed water does not help. Here is a simple tip to help keep our basket weaving hands soft. When you put water in your bucket to soak your reed, just put a small squirt of inexpensive hair conditioner into the water and swish it around. When I say a small squirt, I mean about a marble size amount of conditioner to about 2 gallons of water. I keep a sample size bottle of hair conditioner in with my basket weaving tools at all time. This will not hurt the reed and will help keep your hands smooth.
Happy Weaving!
Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday - Coffee Filter Basket

2010-08-01T04:00:00.006-06:00

This basket makes me smile. It is in my cabinet and holds my coffee filters and measuring spoon and I see it each and every morning.

Hope you all have a blessed Sunday.

Nancy

Free Basket Weaving Pattern

2010-07-26T11:45:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
I want to direct you over to W.H. Baskets to pick up their free pattern this month. It's called a Buffet Basket and uses beautiful braided seagrass and swing handles. I wove a basket similar to this a number of years ago. I lined it with a Winnie the Pooh fabric and filled it with baby items as a baby gift for a friend. It turned out darling. I'll have to search and see if I can find an old photo of the one I wove. The swing handles add a lot to this sweet basket. The two wooden handles give strength to the base. It also makes it easier to store because you can fold the handles down when needed. W.H. Baskets keeps their free patterns up only for a month and we are almost to the end of July so get there soon and print it off.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday

2010-07-25T13:00:00.000-06:00

I love weaving small simple baskets like this one. It uses a 4 x 6 D handle. I'm always watching for the little floral picks to go on clearance because I think they make a perfect embellishment.

I hope all of you are enjoying your summer. Did you know that it is just 5 months from today until Christmas? Start thinking about your gift giving now and while it is hot outside. Stay in the cool air conditioning and weave some gifts. That will be one less thing to think about when we are in the holiday season.

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

Back To Basics in Basket Weaving - Shaping Your Basket

2010-07-22T13:08:00.001-06:00

I've had a couple of e-mails over the past week from new weavers with questions on shaping their basket. I realized I hadn't spoken much about this so I have a few tips to pass along. First let me say that these tips are for standard square/rectangular reed baskets.

Use plenty of clothespins especially in the first few rows. They are your extra hands. One thing I notice when teaching is that students use too few clothespins. The basket above is not large yet I have 10 clothespins on it. As I weave higher up the walls of the basket I won't need as many.
Clothespin your corners upright. You can see easier in the top photo that I have all four corners clothespinned upright. Keep these pinned also for the first few rows, then the clothespins in the corners can be removed.
If you are a new weaver, select patterns that use at least 3/8" or wider weavers for your first few rows. The strength of a 3/8" weaver is strong enough to help get the sides of your basket going up straight quicker. In the photo, I am weaving with 1/4" flat reed. This is a very weak reed so I will need to use more clothespins and continue using quite a few clothespins for additional rows to ensure that my basket walls are going up straight.
One e-mail mentioned that she was weaving with the basket upright like in the top photo and she was struggling. She noticed that I turned my basket on its side like in the bottom photo. If you turn your basket on its side to weave as in the bottom photo, this helps not only the stakes on the top, but also on the bottom take their proper upright shape. One thing you do not see in my videos that I will mention here; On my videos, I weave on the table so that my webcam can see and take the picture. When I weave without a camera, I weave in my lap! I lay my old towel in my lap and weave there. My lap works the same as the table in that I have my basket turned on its side as in the bottom photo. It is much more comfortable to weave in my lap and therefore I get a better finished product.
When starting a row of weaving, get around the first corner and STOP. Take a moment to shape that corner, add clothespins if needed. Now weave across one side of the basket and around the second corner and STOP. Get this side of weaving adjusted as needed and the corner shaped. Continue on with this pattern of stopping after going around each corner so that you can shape each side and corner just the way you want it, not too tight and not too loose so that the sides of your basket will go straight up and down rather than bend inward or flair outward (unless that is the desired shape like in THIS basket which both flairs and bends). Take your time to get it just right with each row.
When lashing on a rim, remember rim material is considerably heaver than your other weaving material. It needs to soak longer so that you can bend it 90 degrees at each corner. What will happen if you don't is the top of your basket will be round or oval. Again, if that is your desired shape then ok, otherwise, be sure to soak it well and bend it well at each corner to keep that square shape.
If the base of your basket is wobbly once it is woven, dampen it slightly and place a heavy book on your basket like a phone book. Let it set overnight to dry and it will be perfectly flat in the morning.
Remember that shaping gets better with practice. The size of the basket in the photo above is a nice size to begin with for a new weaver, it is not too large or not too small. In the words of Goldilocks, "It is just right." For new weavers, be sure to start with some easier baskets to practice your shaping. Most patterns will identify themselves as either beginner, intermediate, or advanced. When you've done a few beginner patterns, spread your wings and try something more challenging. If you follow these tips and take your time, even your very first basket will be a beautiful work of art!

Have a wonderful day of weaving,
Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday - Mini Muffin Basket

2010-07-18T13:11:00.001-06:00

Dear Friends,
I wanted to show you my Mini Muffin Basket once again. I demonstrate this basket in my YouTube videos and take you through it step by step in how to weave it. Just go to my YouTube channel and follow right along! I call this a Mini Muffin Basket because it is just the right size to hold 6 mini muffins or 2 large muffins. You could also put a large muffin and a small bag of coffee in it.

Get you weaving supplies ready. You will need the following:

5/8" flat reed
3/8" flat reed
1/4" flat reed
#3 round reed

That's it! Only four sizes needed for this sweet basket.
As always, if you would like to view any of my baskets, you can visit my YouTube channel at
http://www.youtube.com/user/basketmasternancy
Blessings,
Nancy

Back To Basics in Basket Weaving - Designing your Own Basket

2010-07-15T13:04:00.001-06:00

On Sunday, I showed you some casserole carriers that I wove around a Corning Ware dish. I've had e-mails asking how to do this and how I design my own baskets.
From time to time I like to weave a basket to contain something specific like this Corning Ware dish. I've also woven around plastic containers of various sizes. These plastic containers basically become a liner for the basket. This way, I can put food or plants in my baskets and I don't have to worry about my baskets becoming damaged or wet.
The way I start designing the basket is I know what purpose I want to use the basket for.
If I want to weave it around something like this dish in the picture, I measure around it. Look closely at the photo. My tape measure extends two inches on each side of the basket. I would cut my stakes for this basket 17". This gives me room to cut and tuck and I won't run short when I get to the top. So basically, measure the three sides (side, bottom, side) and add 4 inches. If it is a large basket, I would add 6" or an extra 3" to each side. Make sense?
Then I almost always use 1/2" flat or 5/8" flat for my stakes or spokes. I weave typically with thinner reed than my spokes so 3/8", 1/4" or 11/64" flat or flat oval or round reed, anything that is thinner or more flexible than my stakes. If I use fillers for my base, I often use 3/8" or 1/2" flat. To know the number of stakes to cut, you're just going to have to do the math on your particular project. It depends on what size stakes you are using and the spacing you choose between each stake.
As I weave up the sides, my creativity just guides me. I just have a finished height in mind. For my rim row, I weave 1/8" narrower reed than what I'm going to use for my rim. for example, if my rim is 1/2" flat/oval, I would weave my top rim row 3/8" flat.
Have you ever been at a store and saw a basket you really liked and thought you could weave it at home with a higher quality look and in colors that matched your decor? Just keep your tape measure in your purse and measure around the basket like I did in the photo. Take a few notes as to what sizes of materials they used and the finished dimensions of the basket. Then you can go home and weave it with better quality products, better reed, better handles etc.
Be sure to post a comment or send me an e-mail if you have further questions about this. I hope it gets you started on designing your own baskets. As always, be sure to let me know when you finish a basket and post me a link to its photo.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Share A Basket Sunday - Double Stake Fruit Basket

2010-07-11T13:06:00.002-06:00

Do you have a some extra colored reed? Try this technique. Lay two stakes of different colors side by side as you weave the base and then take it up the sides for a fun different look.
Have a Blessed Sunday,
Enjoy!
Nancy

Back to Basics in Basket Weaving - Starting and Stopping a Project

2010-07-08T13:03:00.000-06:00

I try really hard to complete weaving a basket in just one sitting. Sometimes though, that just isn't possible. I want to give you a few tips on where to stop if you are working on a large project and need to pause so you can cook dinner for the family.

If it is a large project, one stage you can do is read through your pattern, gather your supplies and cut your stakes. Of course you can stop at this point. I like to have all my supplies gathered together because it is frustrating to have to get up and down because I've forgotten something.

Is your basket being woven in all natural reed? If so, and if there are no wooden parts then you can stop at most any time during your project and just resoak it when you are ready to begin again.

If you have wooden parts on your basket such as a wooden base or a wooden handle, you shouldn't even dip those in water. Some wooden handles are held together with glue and the water could affect the stick-um power of the glue. Some handles are steamed into their shape and water could cause them to relax and straighten back out. Of course they may get slightly damp from using wet reed and that cannot be helped, I'm just saying don't dip them in water. So that said, when you start weaving, it is best to weave up to the top of your basket and get your stakes cut and tucked. You can always put the rim on during your next basket weaving session.

If you have used some dyed reed in your project, you should either stop before incorporating the dyed reed on your project, or again weave to the top and do your cutting and tucking. If you need to re-soak your reed later you strongly risk your dyed reed bleeding onto natural reed. Spend a minute really shaping your basket at this point so that when you come back to lash the rim on, your basket will be shaped properly.

If you are doing a braided rim and the basket is in natural, I like to get my round reed in place before pausing.

What happens when.....your child requires that horrible trip to the emergency room when you just have to drop everything? Well, things like this can happen and you have no control of when to stop working at a convenient place. (Seriously though, let's hope that never happens!) What I would do is when I return; I'd mist the reed lightly with a water bottle and work on shaping the basket the best I could. I'd continue weaving up the sides and again mist the reed where it gets cut and tucked. Have a paper towel handy to wipe off excessive drips. By only misting and using a towel to wipe drips you will decrease your chances of the dyed reed bleeding onto the natural reed. When you tuck in your stakes, you may have more cracking and splintering than usual, but...this is just one of those times where that cannot be helped. The cracking and splintering will be hidden by the rim and rim filler.

I hope this gives you some suggestions when to pause your weaving should you need to . Of course, in all instances, it is ideal to go from beginning to the finished project in one session.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Happy 4th of July!!!

2010-07-04T13:37:00.000-06:00

Enjoy the fireworks tonight!

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

Patriotic Wall Basket

2010-07-03T05:42:00.000-06:00

Here is another of my favorite ribbon baskets. This is a wall basket with a small notched handle in the back. I like to put a couple of small flags in it when it is out for the holiday.
Hope you are all getting enjoying your holiday weekend.
Baskets of Blessings,
Nancy

Back To Basics in Basket Weaving - Basket Weaving Terminology

2010-07-01T12:03:00.000-06:00

I wanted to give you some basic basket weaving terminology. You may hear me use words in my videos and see some written on my blog that are unfamiliar, so here is a definition of some of them. These definitions are for basic baskets. There are always basket patterns that break the rules and do something different, but this is for most standard basket patterns. There are many more terms and I will cover some of them in future posts. This will just get you started.

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Base--Bottom of a basket.

Stakes--These are the foundation of a square or rectangular basket. They help form the base and then go up the sides of the basket vertically.

Spokes--These are the foundation of a round or oval basket. They also then go up the sides of the round basket vertically.

Ribs--The skeleton frame in a ribbed basket that weavers are woven on.

Weaver--This is what goes horizontally around the sides of the basket.

Twining--This is done with round reed. It is a half twist in the round reed and is created with either two separate strands, or one strand that has been bent in half.

Packing--Packing is pushing the weavers tightly together as they are woven up the sides of the basket.

Splicing--Splicing is when you run out of a weaver before you are finished so you need an additional piece of weaver to complete the row or basket.

Upsetting the Basket--This is when the base is woven and you bend up the stakes or spokes so that you may begin working on the sides of your basket.

Cut and Tuck or Cutting and Tucking--When finished weaving the sides, you cut the stakes or spokes that are on the inside of the basket flush with your top row of weaving. The stakes or spokes that are on the outside of the basket get folded to the inside and tucked behind a weaver to hide the ends.

Basket Hairs--The splintery looking things on the rough (wrong) side of reed. These are cut or singed off when the basket is completed.

Rim Row--The top row of weaving. This is typically hidden under the rim.

Rim--Typically 2 pieces of reed that are slightly wider than the rim row. These pieces sandwich and cover the rim row and are placed even with the bottom edge of the rim row.
Rim Filler--Something that goes on top of the rim row and is sandwiched between the two rim pieces. Often this is seagrass or round reed.

Lashing--This is the material that holds the rim and rim filler in place.

Shaping--Using your weaver to make the spokes or stakes flare out or pull in.

Book Review - Rib Baskets

2010-06-29T16:20:00.004-06:00

Good Afternoon Friends,
I was asked some questions about my egg basket that I mentioned HERE and if I had a pattern for it. I'm sorry to say but I have not put a pattern for ribbed baskets here on the blog. I've only woven about a dozen of them and they just are not my favorite. Sorry, I know some of you love weaving them and you do such beautiful work.

I have a book that I use called Rib Baskets by Jean Turner Finley. It is soft cover, 80 pages and published in 1987. It discusses materials, general directions for all rib baskets, decorative options and the following basket variations: Melon Basket, 8" Roll Basket, Scottish Yarn Basket, Potato Basket, 8", 10" and 12" Egg Baskets, 7" and 10" Key Baskets, Herb Basket, Hen Basket, Oriole Basket, Market Basket, Rounded Market Basket, Classic Appalachian Basket, Wreath, Shelf and Doll Cradle.

Even though it is an older book it has MANY photos and illustrations that clearly explain how to weave a ribbed basket. Once you learn the basic steps with regards to the hoops, ears, ribs and weavers then you can step out in your weaving by changing the shape to create the baskets mentioned above.

Many public libraries have some basic basket weaving books that often contain instructions for making ribbed baskets. Rib Baskets by Jean Turner Finley just happens to be on my bookshelf and if you are looking to purchase one, I think this book is very thorough and complete in explaining ribbed basketry.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Sloped Gathering Basket

2010-06-27T04:00:00.000-06:00

This little basket uses a 4 x 6 D handle. I use it to hold packages of seed for my garden. To create the slope up each side, you simply do not weave all the way around the basket. You only weave from the left and stop at the right. Each time you do that you move in one stake. For the rim row at the top which is hidden, I twined with round reed for 2 rows and then lashed the rim onto the twining.

Have a Blessed Sunday,

Nancy

Back to Basics in Basket Weaving - How To Dye Reed

2010-06-23T04:00:00.001-06:00

Today I would like to post my directions on how I dye my reed. There are several dyes on the market, but I use good old Rit dye and this is my recipe.

I use a large enamel pot and work outside on an outdoor propane burner. I fill the pot about 1/2 full of water which in my case is about 2 1/2 gallons of water. I get the water up to a boil and add one box of powdered Rit die, 1 cup table salt and 1 cup white vinegar. I use powdered Rit only because it cost less than the liquid, but liquid is fine. I use the salt and vinegar to help get the color to really set well. Yes, it will fade if placed in direct sunlight, most dyes will but the salt and vinegar just seem to help keep it from having any natural fading. Using my recipe gives me really rich colors. Once the water is boiling, I turn off the heat and add my reed. I will add 2 1/2 pounds of reed to this mixture. Any more than that, it just doesn't get the intensity of color that I like. Usually I will dye 1 pound of 3/8" flat and 1 pound of 1/4" flat. Then I use 1/2 pound of another size of my choice. This just seems to be what works for me. I open up my pounds of reed and submerge them into the pot of dye doing one pound at a time. I have a big set of barbecue tongs to help push the reed down into the water. Sometimes it wants to float and most times I have to turn it to be sure it gets complete coverage. I have plenty of newspaper on the ground to catch drips and to also lay the reed on to dry once it has achieved it's color. Getting the color usually only takes a few minutes, but I have been known to let the reed soak for up to an hour. Dying reed is a simple process and very fun to watch the colors appear. I don't wear gloves, but I do wear old clothes. Please don't dye it in your kitchen. Accidents can happen too easy and oh what a mess! Also, be sure to visit http://www.ritdye.com/ for color charts, techniques and ideas.

Have Fun!

Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday - Ribbed Egg Basket

2010-06-20T04:00:00.000-06:00

This egg basket uses embroidery hoops for the frame. Try to remove the metal or plastic tightening mechanism. If that is not possible, try to flatten the mechanism out and hide it behind the God's eye.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Back To Basics in Basket Weaving - Spoke Weight

2010-06-17T13:56:00.000-06:00

I have a couple of favorite basket weaving tools, but today I'm going to talk about my #1 tool, the Spoke Weight.

When I first learned how to weave we would put our dishpans full of water on the table to hold our reed in place. While this worked, it was very space consuming. The spoke weight is a heavy metal weight that also is a ruler. It is perfect for holding reed in place and measuring to get the exact length of reed or space between reeds. This is a must have tool for basket weavers.

Here is my tip. What if you don't have a spoke weight and don't want to put the dishpan on the table? What if you do have a spoke weight yet your basket is large and you need more than one. Here's what you do. Go to your pantry and get out a bag of dried beans and use that as a weight. Dried beans are inexpensive, the plastic bag keeps the beans dry, and they don't take up hardly any additional table space. Use 2, 3, or 4 bags if needed. It is a handy homemade kitchen tool to make your basket weaving just that much easier!

Happy Weaving,

Nancy

Around the House Saturday - A Basket A Birthday An Anniversary and A Podcast

2010-06-12T07:05:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends,
The past week and a half has been a busy one. I'm sure it has been busy for most of you as well.
The basket I'm sharing is one I wove years ago and has traveled with us on all our moves. I think every house we've lived in has had stairs so this stair step basket has been wonderful and so useful. What I like about this basket is that the wooden D handle goes clear down to the bottom step or the bottom of the basket. Some patterns you see will use a smaller D handle that only reaches the first step. I think with it going to the bottom step it gives it more stability to carry heavier items.

The cross stitch design is the same one I showed you in my Hamburger Bun Basket found HERE.
You can see with all the use this basket has received some of the little "X"s have broken. Someday I should take them all out and replace them. The handle is braided and gives it another decorative element.

Onto a Birthday...Emily turned 15. She has been visiting Grandma and Grandpa this week and is now back home. She is doing babysitting several times a week and ice skating whenever she gets a chance. I want to add one more thing. We took her back to the fibromyalgia specialist. Once again they changed her medication and she is doing so much better. Praise God! Grandma even said she did real good this past week. Emily was feeling so discouraged a month ago so we are all very happy at this time.

Now for our Anniversary...Mike and I celebrated 22 years. We were actually apart for our anniversary as he had taken the Venture scouts to San Diego for their summer trip. We will be going out for a nice dinner sometime this week for our anniversary dinner. After 22 years, it doesn't matter if we don't celebrate on the actual day ;-)

Finally a podcast...I have episode #9 of Making Our Home a Haven available to listen to. You can listen to it on the audio player here on my sidebar or you can go to iTunes and subscribe and listen to it from there or download it onto your iPod or MP3 player. Or if you prefer you can go directly to Talkshoe and listen to it HERE. The topic in this episode is "Loving Up Your Home." I give tips on using your 5 senses to refresh and love up the home we live in.

I've had a few questions about the podcast that I'd like to answer. I use Audacity as my audio mixer. It is a free download. I have the bird sounds on one track that I have saved and I record my voice on another track. It does quite a number of things, but it is simple enough for me to mix just the two tracks. One episode I had a tickle in my throat and started coughing. I was able to cut the coughs right out. You can also increase or decrease the volume of just one track. Other than these little basics, I don't know much more, but I know Audacity does a lot more.

I use Talkshoe as it is a free hosting service. Another free service is Blog Talk Radio. I don't know why I went with Talkshoe. I just checked into it and it was easy. I'm all about easy when it comes to the computer. Talkshoe automatically uploads it into iTunes for me.

The microphone I use is just the one that is built into my laptop. I've had to buy nothing extra to do the podcast. Starting at the third or fourth episode I began recording in our closet. I know that sounds funny, but when I have seen recording studios, they have wavy fabric walls to keep the sound from echoing. I figured my closet would do the same thing! We have a walk in closet. I sit in on a chair in there and face the clothing. I close the door behind me and make sure the air conditioner is turned off so that it won't start running while I'm recording. I kind of feel like a little kid in trouble who has to sit in the corner as I record!

As far as using a script. The first 2 episodes I wrote everything out word for word. Now I just have an outline that I follow. My first episode I must have started and restared it a dozen times. Now I still have to restart the recordings at least once, but it is much better. Sometimes I just get tongue tied or my thoughts escape me, telling me I need more on my outline. I just erase my mistakes and start over. It actually goes pretty quickly and I think making the podcasts is way faster than doing my YouTube videos.

So, I hope that answers everyone's questions. Have a great week everyone.
Blessings,
Nancy

Back to Basics in Basket Weaving - Making Reed Curls

2010-06-10T17:41:00.000-06:00

I've had people ask, "How did you make those curls?" "Are those curlie Q's made from reed?"

Yes, those curls are made from reed. I used 11/64" flat reed and rolled it around a 1/4" dowel rod. Soak the read well first, 15 minutes at least. Then secure the end of the reed to the dowel with a clothespin and just keep wrapping. Secure the other end with a clothespin as well. Let the reed dry completely before removing it from the dowel. You can then pull on the coils slightly to give them a springy look. You can do the same thing using round reed as well for a pretty look. Once the reed is removed from the dowel rod, cut it into desired lengths and wire to your basket. Try using several colors or a color with natural for a pretty basket embellishment.
Happy Basket Weaving,

Nancy

A Fantastic Basket for a Gift

2010-06-08T08:02:00.000-06:00

Dear Friends,

I just think this is the greatest idea for a gift. A sweet friend of mine, who has asked when I post that she'd like to remain anonymous, made 11 of these for teacher gifts. These are baskets that she has woven and on the wooden bases are her children's names, in their own handwriting, that have been laser engraved. Wouldn't a teacher or relative just treasure this!!! Cute Cute CUTE!!!

I've never worked with a wood burning tool, but I wonder if you couldn't do something similar with your child's handwritten name.

I just love this idea and honestly, I wish I'd have thought of it when my children were younger.

Thank you dear friend for letting me share this.

Happy Weaving,

Nancy

Share a Basket Sunday - Rose Bowl

2010-06-06T08:11:00.000-06:00

Good Morning Friends,
The basket I want to share with you is one I wove years ago at a convention workshop. The title is called "Rose Bowl" and the author is Linda Lugenbill. This basket is about the size of a large fruit bowl and I just love it. It's home is in my craft room with me and hold some of my supplies as I work.
Hope you are all having a blessed Sunday.
Happy Weaving,
Nancy

Back to Basics in Basket Weaving -- Creating A Professional Finish

2010-06-01T06:43:00.002-06:00

Geting Ready for Memorial Day with a Hamburger Bun Basket

2010-05-30T04:00:00.003-06:00

Hi Friends,
This is a basket that I designed to hold a package of hamburger or hotdog buns.
I chose this basket to show you today because if you are like us, you have plans to be outside cooking on the grill having hotdogs, hamburgers, potato salad, three bean salad, fruit and chocolate cake. Any of you having something similar?
The base is started as usual but then an additional "X" is woven into the base. It is then twined for 7 rows around the bottom of the basket. What this does is it makes the corners curved rather than sharp 90 degree angles so the package of buns fit in here perfectly. The decorative "X's" on he outside of the basket in navy blue are short pieces of 1/4" flat reed inserted into the navy blue weavers after the basket is woven.
I hope all of you have an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend.
Baskets of Blessings,
Nancy

I'm Starting a New Blog

2010-05-27T21:56:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends,
First off, don't worry, Basketmaster's Weavings isn't going anywhere.
I've been thinking for some time though that I would like Basketmaster's Weavings to stand more on it's own. I have so many passions, cooking, gardening, crafts etc. that I've been feeling like this blog has been losing it's direction. That's not to say though that from time to time I still might post some of my other passions here. I just want to try and get this blog back to its main focus and that being basket weaving.

So my new blog is called the "How To" Homemaker. It goes along with my "Making Our Home a Haven" podcast and will be covering things such as cooking, cleaning, sewing, saving money and much more. In the same vain that I've tried to teach new weavers how to weave here on this blog, the "How To" Homemaker is geared to teaching homemaking skills and focusing on the basics.

I hope you will all take just a moment to pop over to the "How To" Homemaker and take a look, leave a comment, and become a follower. I'd also LOVE it if you would let others know about my new blog. Hey, I'd LOVE it if you'd let others know about THIS blog as well.

Thanks everyone. It will be back to basket weaving over here.
Sending you all cyber hugs,
Nancy

Back to Basics of Basket Weaving - Getting the Perfect Bend in Round Reed

2010-05-25T08:12:00.000-06:00

There are times when round reed needs to be bent and it can be very frustrating to have a piece of round reed snap in half. A simple solution to keep this from happening is to have in your tool kit a needle nose pliers. When needing a crisp bend in the round reed, pinch it with the pliers first and then bend the reed. This virtually eliminates the risk of the reed breaking. Of course it goes without saying, make sure your reed is well soaked.

Baskets of Blessings,

Nancy

My Sweet Baby

2010-05-24T10:58:00.000-06:00

Our sweet Katie turns 17 today. It's hard to believe my babies are all growing up so much. All my kiddos have summer birthdays so this is the first of the parties starting tonight.
We love you Katie! Happy Birthday.
Love Mommy

Share a Basket and Making Our Home a Haven - Episode #8 Organizing Our Closets

2010-05-22T22:29:00.002-06:00

Hi Friends,
Just letting you know that a new episode of Making Our Home a Haven is available to listen to. In this episode I discuss how I organize my clothing and give you encouragement to tackle your closets as well as a few fun tips. I was motivated this past week to organize my closet and I'm glad to report that I got rid of three kitchen size trash bags full of clothes, shoes and purses. You can listen to Making Our Home a Haven right here as there is a player on my right sidebar, or you can listen to it on TalkShoe HERE. You can also search for Making Our Home a Haven in iTunes podcasts and subscribe to it over there. I hope you are all getting some good tips and enjoying the podcasts. I would appreciate it so much if you would please let a friend know about them.

Now for the basket...This is a large basket woven on a "D" handle. I use this basket in my pantry to hold snacks for the kids. The wide strip in the middle is maple and is embellished with rub-ons.
Have a blessed Sunday everyone,
Nancy
This Post Links To:
Mom's The Word

Back to Basics of Basket Weaving - Basket Making Terminology

2010-05-18T07:50:00.001-06:00

Good Morning Friends,
How are you all doing today? It is cloudy yet comfortable here and I've got the windows open which I love. It is a great day for weaving.
Today I wanted to give you some basic basket weaving terminology. You may hear me use words in my videos and see some written on my blog that are unfamiliar, so here is a definition of some of them. These definitions are for basic baskets. There are always basket patterns that break the rules and do something different, but this is for most standard basket patterns. There are many more terms and I will cover some of them in future posts. This will just get you started.
Baskets of Blessings,
Nancy

Base--Bottom of a basket.

Stakes--These are the foundation of a square or rectangular basket. They help form the base and then go up the sides of the basket vertically.

Spokes--These are the foundation of a round or oval basket. They also then go up the sides of the round basket vertically.

Ribs--The skeleton frame in a ribbed basket that weavers are woven on.

Weaver--This is what goes horizontally around the sides of the basket.

Twining--This is done with round reed. It is a half twist in the round reed and is created with either two separate strands, or one strand that has been bent in half.

Packing--Packing is pushing the weavers tightly together as they are woven up the sides of the basket.

Splicing--Splicing is when you run out of a weaver before you are finished so you need an additional piece of weaver to complete the row or basket.

Upsetting the Basket--This is when the base is woven and you bend up the stakes or spokes so that you may begin working on the sides of your basket.

Cut and Tuck or Cutting and Tucking--When finished weaving the sides, you cut the stakes or spokes that are on the inside of the basket flush with your top row of weaving. The stakes or spokes that are on the outside of the basket get folded to the inside and tucked behind a weaver to hide the ends.

Basket Hairs--The splintery looking things on the rough (wrong) side of reed. These are cut or singed off when the basket is completed.

Rim Row--The top row of weaving. This is typically hidden under the rim.

Rim--Typically 2 pieces of reed that are slightly wider than the rim row. These pieces sandwich and cover the rim row and are placed even with the bottom edge of the rim row.

Rim Filler--Something that goes on top of the rim row and is sandwiched between the two rim pieces. Often this is seagrass or round reed.

Lashing--This is the material that holds the rim and rim filler in place.

Shaping--Using your weaver to make the spokes or stakes flare out or pull in.

Making Our Home a Haven - Episode #7 Using a Garden Journal

2010-05-17T06:24:00.004-06:00

Good Morning Friends,
I wanted to let you know that the latest episode of Making Our Home a Haven is ready to listen to. In this episode I talk about how I use my garden journal.

Here are a couple of pictures about things I mentioned in the episode. The bottom photo is my tomato experiment this year. We'll see which variety produces the best and with the best tasting tomatoes.

I hope you enjoy listening to this episode which runs about 8 minutes. You can listen to it on the player here on my right sidebar or you can go to TalkShoe and listen to it HERE. As always, if you are in iTunes search the podcasts for Making Our Home a Haven and subscribe so as not to miss a single episode.
Do you keep a garden journal? What do you specifically take notes about that are important for you to remember?
Happy Gardening!
Nancy

This post links to:
Mom's The Word - Making Your Home Sing
Trendy Treehouse
Women Who Do It All
Blogger Chix Designs

Notepad Basket for a Teacher Appreciation Gift

2010-05-16T07:40:00.008-06:00

I made a cute basket to hold a shopping list or notes. Actually I've made a number of these little baskts. They take about 50 minutes to weave. I used 5/8" flat for the side stakes and I used 1/2" flat for the front and back stakes. The weavers were 3/8" flat and 1/4" flat. The spiral was 11/64" flat/oval and the round reed was #2. The hanger on the back is made from #2 round reed that has been coiled into a circle.

This basket makes a perfect teacher appreiation gift.
Blessings,
Nancy
This Post Links to These Fun Blogs:
Skip To My Lou
Tools are For Women Too
Sumo's Sweet Stuff
The Girl Creative
The DIY Showoff
Making the World Cuter
The Persimmon Perch
Keeping it Simple
Mad In Crafts
It's So Very Cheri
Sew Can Do
A Soft Place to Land
Sugar Bee
Lucky Star Lane
Today's Creative Blog
Someday Crafts
Trendy Treehouse
Blue Cricket Design
Women Who Do It All

Back To Basics of Basket Weaving - Tools Used in Making a Basket

2010-05-15T05:34:00.001-06:00

Good Morning Friends,
Lately I've been receiving a number of e-mails with questions related to beginning basket weaving. I'm thinking its time to get back to the basics because I want to encourage all you new weavers that basketry is something you CAN do. Some of my posts in this series will be new, some you may have seen before. Hopefully you will be reminded and refreshed with new ideas once again.

Today I want to share with you the tools I use in weaving baskets. For those of you just starting out, I'm going to begin by listing just the basics you need. The wonderful thing about basket weaving is that you can start weaving with tools you most likely already have at home. There is minimal investment.

Something to hold water. At home I use my kitchen sink. When I weave elsewhere I take a dishpan.
Tape Measure
Old Bath Towel
Dozen clothespins
Old Heavy Duty Kitchen Scissors
Small Flat Blade Screwdriver

That's it! For those of you wanting to give weaving a try, did you realize that basket weaving only needed these few tools?

Now, I've been weaving a long time so I have added a few tools to my collection to make weaving a bit easier, but all the extras are not necessary.

I carry all my supplies around in an old dishpan that I use for water when weaving. Everything fits nicely in it.

Now I wanted to show you what I keep in my work basket. I wove my work basket and attached the blue leather handles with rivets. The handles are just the right size to hold my spoke weight and the leather keeps the spoke weight from slipping out of the handles. Here are its contents:

My old towel that sits in my lap when I weave
Spoke weight
Packing tool
Awl
Tape measure
Glue - to attach embellishments
2 Lashing tools
Mini electrical clamps (those are in the zip lock baggie)
Pencil
Nail clippers- to trim the hairs off the basket
Reed gauge - to measure the size of reed (I eyeball my size most of the time)
Exacto knife
Lighter (I don't smoke, but I do use this to singe the hairs on my baskets)
Wire - also to attach embellishments
Sharpie - to sign my baskets
Twist ties - to bundle spokes for kits together
Clothespins
Large electrical clamps
Needle nose pliers
Zip ties
Samples of hair conditioner - keeps reed and my hands soft
Band aids (you never know)
Old kitchen scissors (not shown, children must have taken it)
Squirt bottle with water (also not shown, again I'll blame it on the kids)

Of course I have more in quantity of some of the items show, this just is a sampling. What is in your work basket?
Blessings,
Nancy

Whew...What a Week

2010-05-13T12:24:00.003-06:00

Hi Friends,

I know it is only Thurs. but it has been a busy week here. You've heard me say this before and I'll say it again, May is the second busiest month of the year. There are so many end of the school year activities.

We've had my in-laws visiting this week.

We started building trellises for the grape vines. That's Mike and my Father-in-law setting the posts.

Going back to Mother's Day...It started off with church. My sweet children had their own surprises for me.

Timothy made my mother-in-law and I brownies and wrote on them "Happy M-Day" complete with candles. Emily wrote me a heartfelt letter. Katie gave me a gift card to the book store. I received a tape recorder/microphone for my podcasts from Mike and he took me out to eat. It was a no cook day. Yea!

Katie has had another school play she was in on Monday night for her drama class final.

On Tuesday night Katie was confirmed into the church. It was a very special evening.

The top picture is Katie with Bishop Tofoya and her sponsor Justin who is also the youth director of our church.

The bottom picture is 1/2 of Katie's class. The other half of the class is getting confirmed next week.

On Wednesday night Timothy had a Court of Honor scouting ceremony and received a couple of merit badges. That is Tim on the left with the American flag. He is currently a Star Scout.

This week Emily (who I don't have a picture of here, bad mom) completed her ice skating lessions and has tested and advanced to level 8 which she is very excited about.

Today is a quiet day with nothing unusual on the calendar. I'm catching up on laundry, cleaning and e-mails. School ends in a little less than two weeks now. I can't wait!

Blessings,

Nancy

Free Basket Weaving Pattern from Me to You - Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T04:00:00.007-06:00

Dear Friends,
Happy Mother's Day to all my mommy readers. I hope you are all being spoiled today. I have no idea what is in store for me but I'll be sure to let you know.
I haven't shared a free basket pattern with you in some time and so I thought today would be fitting.
Have a beautiful and blessed Sunday,
Nancy

Elegant Mother’s Day BasketPattern Written by Nancy Jacobs

Finished Size: 9” x 4 1/2” not including handle height.

Materials Required:
5/8” flat reed
1/2” flat reed - spokes
3/8” flat reed
3/8” flat/oval reed
11/64” flat or flat/oval reed
1/4” flat or flat/oval colored reed
#2 or #3 round reed
Seagrass
3 yards wire edged ribbon
6” thin wire (i.e. 22 gauge)
Floral embellishment

Procedure:
1. From 1/2” flat reed cut 11 pieces 23” long and 1 piece 63” long.
2. Mark the centers of these pieces on the rough side with a pencil
3. Lay out the 63” piece and 5 of the 23” pieces, rough side up, matching the centers, and to look like the spokes on a bicycle wheel. These become the spokes of the basket.
4. Take 2 long pieces of #2 or #3 round reed and begin twining around the spokes. Continue twining tightly around the base until it measures 6 inches in diameter.
5. Lay out remaining 6 pieces of 1/2” flat reed in the spaces between the woven spokes, rough side up, matching center pencil marks.
6. Continue twining, incorporating these new spokes. Twine until the base size reaches 9”.
7. Upset the spokes and twine for 2 more rows. The rough side of the reed is on the inside of the basket.
8. Using a basic over/under weave, weave the following:
Rows 1 and 2 - 3/8” flat
Row 3 - 1/4” flat or flat oval colored
Rows 4 and 5 - 3/8” flat
Row 6 - 5/8” flat
Rows 7 and 8 - 3/8” flat
Row 9 - 1/4” flat or flat/oval colored
Row 10 - 3/8” flat
Row 11 – 1/4” flat or flat/oval
9. Cut off the spokes that are on the inside of the basket flush with the top row of weaving. DO NOT CUT OFF THE HANDLES EVEN IF THEY ARE ON THE INSIDE OF THE BASKET.
10. Loop over the 63” reed to the opposite side of the basket and insert each side into the weaving creating the desired height to create the handle.
11. Cut and tuck in remaining spokes to the inside of the basket.
12. Place a piece of 3/8” flat/oval reed on the inside and outside of the top row of weaving.
13. Insert seagrass between the two pieces of 3/8” flat/oval reed. This will hide where the spokes were cut and tucked.
14. Lash on rim with 11/64” flat or flat/oval reed.
15. Wrap handle with 11/64” flat or flat/oval reed. Insert a strip of 1/4” colored reed along the center of the handle. Allow the color to show through by occasionally wrapping the 11/64” both under and over the colored reed.
16. If desired, stain basket at this time. When basket is dry, remove row #6 by cutting out the piece of 5/8” flat reed.
17. 17. Replace row #6 with wire ribbon. Center ribbon on the back of the basket and weave over/under to the front. Make a bow and wire in place. Embellish with flowers if desired.
18. Enjoy your basket!!!

This Post Links To these Fun Blogs:
Under The Table and Dreaming
Make It From Scratch
Somewhat Simple
Along for the Ride
Tatertots and Jello

Around the House Saturday - Casseroles and Ladybugs

2010-05-08T06:25:00.005-06:00

Good Morning Friends,
From time to time I make casseroles. They are good for me to make when I want to disguise leftovers or clean out the refrigerator. I always have just a simple formula in my head that I follow:

A cooked meat such as chicken or ground beef
A cooked carbohydrate such as pasta or rice
A vegetable
Can of creamed soup
Few spices such as salt, pepper and garlic powder
Cheese

I combine ingredients and bake at 350 for 20 minutes. It is really just a mish-mash but I just make sure I make enough for our family of five.
Recently I got the book below and there is a really good casserole recipe in it. It is called "Spicy Pasta and Sausage Bake." I used a link Polish sausage that you can see above. It was a great hit with my family and it is giving me a new base formula. It uses my formula above plus a couple of different things.

The pasta is cooked in chicken broth
A can of Ro-Tel tomatoes (get the spicy you like) are used instead of a can of creamed soup
1/2 cup heaving cream is added

My casserole formula has changed! I can now hide leftovers more easily once again!
You all know I'm a test cook for America's Test Kitchen who published this book. Most times when I test recipes for them my kitchen is FULL of dirty dishes and it takes me some time to prepare them. This book is simple recipes that can be made in 30 minutes or less and my kitchen has not been messy when I've finished. I've been cooking from it all week and have had a happy husband and kids. One plug I've got to put in for America's Test Kitchen. They test their recipes over and over and over a ridiculous amount of times to find the very best way to cook something. If we don't care for a recipe it is because we just don't care for the ingredients. The only food I really don't like to eat is sauerkraut. I can cook it the best possible way but no matter what, my taste buds don't like it. What I'm getting at is that 95% of the recipes here are a huge hit with my family.
Anyway, if you are a casserole maker, try my formula above and let me know what you think.

On another note. My cherry tree is LOADED with ladybugs. They're everywhere on it. I don't know where they've all come from. I'm happy to see them as I've read they can eat up to 1000 aphids in one day. I hope they stick around and keep my tomato plants healthy. Did I tell you that a week ago last Friday we had snow? I had to cover my tomato plants two nights in a row and lost one to the freeze. Crazy to have snow this late in the season.

This is Katie's thumb with an albino ladybug she found on the cherry tree. Very interesting. She's taking biology this year and took it into the teacher. Yes there is such a thing as an albino ladybug.

That's what's going on here. I have been weaving and am getting ready for another series of YouTube videos that will be up in the next few days.

Enjoy your Saturday,

Nancy

This Post Links to the following Super Fun Blogs:

I Am Only 1 Woman
Crazy Dazy