New Granddog

                                                                                                                                                                                               Over the weekend we learned we have a new granddog in the family. My son's family adopted this handsome fellow. His name to be determined but they are considering Ruger. Not sure I like the idea of naming a dog after a gun but it is not my dog. Just like grandchildren we visit and play and then give them back. I suppose I should also mention that his big brother Axle wants nothing to do with this young problem pup so far. 

Back with more again soon. Take care and stay cozy!

July 4th 2022

We will be grilling burgers and having traditional, for us anyway, sides.

Cold watermelon and potato salad are on the list.

Jim grocery shops and I did ask for a treat of caffeine free diet coke if he can find it. I very rarely drink sodas but I like that one.

The day will probably be quiet until dark.

Then all the folks who spent a lot of money to make noise and sparks will get started setting off their fireworks.

We won't be going to see any big shows this year although I love them.

My fireworks pictures here today are from Apache Junction in 2008.

Not the greatest, I know but I like them and remember the night watching them light up the sky over my house.

Hope all of you have a safe and happy 4th!

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Friday Favorites

A read a lot according to my husband. In my own mind I read more than some and less than others. If you asked for a favorite book most times I will tell you about what I am reading currently. I usually savor, enjoy, get lost in, and connect with the books I read and when done I move on to do it again with the next book. I read for entertainment and for education. 

With all that said I am currently reading "A Train to Moscow" written by Elena Gorokhova. From Amazon I will give you the following teaser.

In post-World War II Russia, a girl must reconcile a tragic past with her hope for the future in this powerful and poignant novel about family secrets, passion and loss, perseverance and ambition.

 

This book is written by someone who grew up in Russia. That gives her authentic insight into the characters and culture of the times and places she takes us to. Not to the end yet but it has been so good I will just go ahead and recommend it now. 

To shop for your favorite version, paperback, audible or Kindle just click on the picture or the following link > (This is and the picture are affiliate links)

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Friday Favorite Pine Tree Art on Etsy

I love watercolor art. I think watercolor art is soothing. You don't see bold angry colors like you can find in oil painting. I favorite a lot of artists on Etsy because just looking at what they are able to do makes me say wow.

Today I am sharing Pine Tree Art by Jim Lagasse. This shop has been on Etsy since 2009 and has sales numbering in the thousands and it is so easy to see why. Just take a look below.

The words of this artist from the shop Pine Tree Art,

I love painting any kind of watercolors. Birch trees are my favorite.. Each tree has a different story. Catching your eye is my goal. Please feel free to contact me with your opinions. I love to hear them. I also do commission work so if there is something I can help you with please ask. Thank you for looking at my shop today...

If you want a link to social media, this artist is on twitter  at A Maine Artist.

Hey reader(s?), I invite you to leave a link to your favorite Etsy artists in the comments. I would love to see some new finds because if I ever win the lottery I am going to buy all the art.

Back with more again soon. Take care and stay cozy!

Wordless Wednesday - A Day on Jackson Lake

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What's On My Hook?

I ordered cones of size 10 cotton and have been crocheting market bags in the evenings while Jim and I watch something on Netflix or Prime Video together. 

I ordered 5 colors, red, green, pink, blue and purple. These will get listed in my Etsy shop when they are finished and photographed. Some of them have already modeled for me and have a place there. Some have sold to some very happy customers too.

To see what market bags are currently available click this (link).

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Shawl, Crocheted, Given Away or Sold

I think I may be safe in saying that many knitters and crocheters, including me, have a favorite thing to make. Me? I love making shawls. The idea of a handmade item hugging your shoulders and adding a bit of warmth or covering sun kissed skin on a cool summer evening is exactly what being cozy means to me. 

The first one of the pictures here is of a shawl I made and gave away. The last 3 are of shawls I have sold on Etsy. The light blue and the white one were sold to the same person in March. It felt so good to send them to a new home and I hope they are being used often.

Not many buyers leave reviews and I get that. For many online purchases I don't leave reviews however, on Etsy I always leave one. I know how it feels for a small business on Etsy to get some kind words sent your way.

For the dark blue fringed shawl above my buyer left this 5 star review-

"Gorgeous and comfy! Quick shipping too! Awesome seller!"

I have more shawls coming. Some will be cute sparkly accessories and some will be cozy, squishy, warming  shoulder blankets. (That is what a granddaughter called them when she was very young and didn't know the word shawl.)

PS If any reader is an online seller, in the comments share your most heartwarming review you have received. Would love to hear from you.

Back with more again soon. Take care and stay cozy!