tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7551238322203454182012-02-06T13:57:54.658-05:00A little blog about life, knitting, spinning, beardies and anything else I can think of ...Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.comBlogger2411100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-29509517546262092122011-12-27T07:49:00.004-05:002011-12-27T08:11:33.312-05:00

As you know, our much-loved Bearded Collie, Maggie, went to the Rainbow Bridge in October. After she was gone, I really didn't think I wanted another dog. No dog could possibly measure up to her ... and could we possibly put ourselves through more loss??As the days went by; however, the emptiness and loneliness I felt was really overwhelming. Randy and I started talking about getting another dog

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-3101133258668736632011-11-27T19:13:00.007-05:002011-11-27T20:13:57.127-05:00

Knitted/Felted Canada Goose is all dressed up for Christmas! He and the Gingerbread Man like the new Cozy Coaster for their glass of eggnog. Why don't you give it a try, too? Click here for the free pdf download.It's knit completely in the round on size US 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles, starting at the top. I used a wonderfully stretchy cotton yarn, Cascade Fixation, held together with a

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-80604256286068868882011-10-28T12:45:00.003-04:002011-10-28T12:51:25.330-04:00

Brightcroft Mystic Magpie "Maggie"November 30, 1997-October 26, 2011 Our beautiful, brown Bearded Collie, Maggie, was diagnosed with Lymphoma on Tuesday afternoon. By Wednesday morning, she could barely walk and was struggling to breathe. Do you know that feeling you get when an elevator drops suddenly? That's how I feel. I miss her so much.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-46883025026834532322011-10-13T15:58:00.000-04:002011-10-13T15:58:29.451-04:00

 Here is a really quick, fun way to wear a little bit of Fall! These 2-1/2 inch pins (acorns, above; pumpkins, below) are wet felted, then attached to the pins with a jump ring and a little bit of embroidery floss. Don't be fooled by how large these look on the jewelry mannequin stand! For the step-by-step directions, keep reading!  For the pumpkin pins, first take a little bit of orange

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-62542047074782162832011-10-11T10:43:00.002-04:002011-10-11T10:43:41.797-04:00

Okay, I know I've been a little bit slow on getting those promised Fall projects posted. I'm working on some wet felted and needle felted Fall pins ... so stay tuned for those (I think you're going to like them!!!) ... but in the meantime, here's a delicious Pumpkin Bread recipe that will definitely make your house smell delicious while it's cooking ... and then, when you taste this, you won't

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-26048046585986734532011-09-23T06:49:00.002-04:002011-09-23T06:49:57.113-04:00

Just in case you were wondering: Fall is here! I'll be back with some fun Fall and holiday projects! Stay tuned!!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-73566599943336568932011-09-06T15:13:00.004-04:002011-09-06T15:37:36.367-04:00

Cake pop with coating that is way too thick, lumpy and bumpy.If you know me very well, you know that I do not give up easily. If you recall, my first attempt at making cake pops a few weeks ago was a complete disaster in appearance (although the taste was still pretty good). If you don't recall, you can scroll down and read that entry below. Anyhow, I decided I'd give the project another try.The

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-39664599892172115492011-08-24T12:43:00.010-04:002011-08-25T13:56:07.856-04:00

It's that time of year again! School buses are back on the roads. The mornings are considerably darker and, even though it's still August, they've gotten chillier, too. The Canada geese have grown back their feathers and fly, honking, overhead. Soon, the leaves will be changing into their fall colors and the air will be filled with the pungent aroma of burning wood and freshly turned earth.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-34289130980438500462011-08-05T17:10:00.011-04:002011-08-08T08:53:07.053-04:00

My very first attempt at making cake pops. They taste very good, although I still need a lot of work on the decorating! There are LOTS of cake-pop books out there now. Here are a few. My favorite recipe so far is in the book that has not arrived from England yet (but the recipe is free, online). Cake pops. The name implies a piece of cake on a stick ... and, well, bottom line, I guess they

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-39985396980573090572011-06-23T13:38:00.004-04:002011-06-23T14:37:34.518-04:00

If you've ever watched a comedy on television and suddenly, without any warning, you get a very special episode, you know what I'm talking about. It's not funny. It either deals with some sad or controversial topic that really has no place in a comedy at all. I usually become very upset with very special episodes, so if you don't want to read this entry, I completely understand! Because ... well,

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-12016756350254470402011-05-27T20:53:00.008-04:002011-05-27T21:17:22.983-04:00

My wonderful mother-in-law: Bertha B. WheelessJuly 2, 1926-May 16, 2011You are greatly missedI just really haven't allowed myself to think about the passing of my husband's mom. She was a terrific mother-in-law ... full of kindness and caring and generosity. She was witty and outspoken; a fabulous bridge player and the quintessential Avon Lady. She loved people and animals ... Coke with crushed

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-13187229289814313802011-05-15T18:29:00.002-04:002011-05-15T18:46:46.612-04:00

Remember those goofy, plastic nose glasses with the mustache? Well now you can knit your own ... and customize your skin color and mustache while you're at it! Disguise those fruits and vegetables the fun way!Here's the silly pattern for you to try! If you'd rather have a pdf version, go to The Pattern BoxIncognitoCopyright 2011 Anita M. WheelessSIZEOne size fits all, allowing for the addition

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-64409656768690267422011-05-04T08:26:00.005-04:002011-05-04T09:40:10.933-04:00

The fish have come out of their fish cave! YEA!!! Here are all five of them. Three koi and two comet goldfish. Aren't these guys wonderful? Notice the food pellet! Our back yard is really shaping up this spring. It's so peaceful and a really great place to sit and think and gather yourself together. (Which is what I need to do all the time!) It's also great inspiration for knitting projects. I

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-80244146192643769862011-04-16T18:36:00.003-04:002011-04-16T18:41:49.046-04:00

Here they are! All the characters together for our first book signing! I had so much fun at Cottage Yarn today! Thank you Sara and Grace for mking me feel so special! And thanks to all who came out, even during the terrible rain storm! I had the opportunity to meet such warm and enthusiastic people!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-58078693949918852592011-04-05T15:12:00.003-04:002011-04-05T15:18:26.564-04:00

I was absolutely ecstatic to get my hands on my very first copy of Storybook Dolls to Knit!!! I hope you will be, too! Despite the snafu with Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com, who seem to think it's out of print already, it's available, really, it is! I'll be back with more details soon! And I've ordered a case of them, myself, which will be available on my website as soon as they come in ... and

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-19586230196117533872011-02-15T12:41:00.002-05:002011-02-15T12:46:55.842-05:00

I LOVE these Russel Stover Caramel-Marshmallow candies. Just look inside! This is what happens the day-after Valentine's Day! GO! GO now and buy yourself a bagful! Drugstores usually have them 50% by now, but you have to sort through the box. Don't be fooled by the coconut hearts or the plain caramel ones or even the plain marshmallow ones. Only the caramel-marshmallow combination will do!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-26266457741717892372011-01-22T17:42:00.004-05:002011-01-22T17:57:31.791-05:00

I am blowing out my 50 candles! (Well, just two actual candles ... with the "50" sentiment!) I had a cupcake in there, smothered with ice cream and fudge sauce. YUM. Here is my birthday present! A vintage (somewhere in the 1960s) Candyland game! Complete with the ICE CREAM FLOAT card! (Which was my all-time favorite!)I realized the other day that I really haven't been posting anything for awhile.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-52100185067254051982010-12-26T10:33:00.004-05:002010-12-26T10:41:17.811-05:00

Scenes from a Christmas Snow! It started snowing last night ... and it's still snowing today, December 26!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-27308305742583868652010-12-08T11:26:00.004-05:002010-12-08T12:18:37.214-05:00

I switched out the fall decorations on my Mom's grave and put some winter/Christmas ones in the vase. I really don't visit the cemetery very much because I've never felt my Mom is there ... I know her body may be there, but she's safely in heaven ... and her presence is with me all the time. And this is a good thing because I can't help but think about her all the time, anyhow ...and talk to her

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-21094423166333270552010-12-04T20:05:00.004-05:002010-12-04T20:10:07.464-05:00

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-73594246337373390682010-11-24T10:48:00.007-05:002010-11-24T21:12:26.624-05:00

Let's decorate! Izzy and Brown Bear are getting ready to decorate for a birthday party ... and Snowman and Gingerbread Man already have the Christmas spirit! Whether you want to decorate for Christmas or anytime of year, the knitted/felted festive garland pattern will be just right! I also used a very thin, lace-weight yarn held together with some Gold Rush sparkle and came up with little links

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-9606942733753562392010-10-27T13:01:00.003-04:002010-10-27T13:13:22.255-04:00

My Mom's grave in the Fall ... Here is the rather expensive bench that everybody thought everybody else really wanted ... but, in the end, nobody really did. But by the time we realized this, it was too late to cancel! So here it is.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-89450260713651602642010-10-19T19:39:00.008-04:002010-10-19T20:09:30.329-04:00

Look at this! This is a tiny flower on the flowering almond shrub a friend from my swimming class gave me last April after my Mom died. She said it would bloom every April. I guess it decided to bloom now that my Dad has moved in! It's probably just a coincidence, but it feels like my Mom is sending us her love and approval.Meanwhile, two of my brothers came for the weekend a couple of weeks ago

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-11240392244885876122010-09-29T11:09:00.003-04:002010-09-29T11:22:42.703-04:00

Sometimes, it seems, mouths have minds of their own! In this case, it's true! Chow is knit in the round, then felted in your washing machine. The teeth are I-cord and shaped by dental-floss stitching.I hope you'll visit Knitty's Deep Fall 2010 issue, now LIVE! and give my free Chow pattern a try and, as always, if you run into any trouble spots, or just want to say, "hi," please email me!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-58343806314126593012010-09-16T12:21:00.006-04:002010-09-16T15:30:13.987-04:00

I am so excited to finally let it be known: My Walkabout dolls are going to be published by Leisure Arts in April, 2011. It's been hard to keep quiet about this project the last year and a half ... so I can finally breathe a wonderful sigh and let you know what I've been working on!!! You can even pre-order it from Amazon.com! Here is the link: Storybook Dolls to Knit You can also read more

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-11152161111543694422010-09-12T11:25:00.006-04:002010-09-12T11:32:43.220-04:00

Izzy and Old Bear love the koi pond! Don't fall in!Wow! It's been a hectic couple of weeks! But my father is all moved into the addition! and I've even had time to put the Izzy Wellington doll pattern up for sale on my website and on Ravelry, too. The 8-page pattern comes with the directions to knit and felt Izzy, her separate dress and her shoes (or dancing slippers, as she likes to call them).

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-49451755678717399242010-08-10T10:47:00.004-04:002010-08-10T10:48:45.333-04:00

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-45485717686511054912010-08-09T22:37:00.006-04:002010-08-09T23:04:22.847-04:00

Meet Izzy ...She stands a full 18" tall She wears her hair up in a bun. Her dancing shoes. (She's hoping to attend a ball soon!)A view of her hips/leg sockets before attaching her legs. Here she is after felting, stuffing and sewing up. Here she is next to Samantha, an American Girl doll ... this is to get a better idea of how big Izzy really is!Well, I worked a lot longer on perfecting Izzy

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-74260809361683750642010-08-01T14:40:00.004-04:002010-08-01T15:03:46.645-04:00

"Izzy," my knitted/felted version of the cloth and wooden 19th-century Izannah Walker doll, is coming along nicely! This is the biggest doll I've ever designed, she measures 18 inches after felting! Here are Izzy's pieces before felting. (above) And here are the pieces after felting. They've just been taken from the washer, rinsed, stuffed and shaped.I used Galway 100 percent wool yarn for the "

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-83574911259400936532010-07-24T12:11:00.003-04:002010-07-24T12:26:42.330-04:00

Move-in date for my dad is on or before September 1!!!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-1278125127225587832010-07-22T00:34:00.002-04:002010-07-22T00:45:24.290-04:00

Some dolls are scary. There. I said it.Come on, you know the ones I'm talking about. Those old, wooden dolls just have a creepy look to them. The porcelain and china dolls can be really frightening. I've always wondered what it was exactly that attracted people to collect them.One day, while searching the web, I stumbled upon photos of Izannah Walker dolls. At first glance, these dolls are

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-46918571014656661342010-07-16T17:34:00.003-04:002010-07-16T21:04:22.379-04:00

A friend of mine and I went to the movies this afternoon ... just a spur of the moment ... at 1 p.m. "Want to see the 2 o'clock show?" YES! For once, we both could get away! And it certainly sounded like a movie we both could appreciate (my friend helps take care of her elderly mom) ..."Mid-August Lunch" The film is in Italian with English subtitles and is only 1 hour and 15 minutes long. I'll

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-53734220644168504882010-07-16T17:22:00.005-04:002010-07-16T21:09:07.379-04:00

I was at Starbuck's today and someone didn't want the Mocha that had been prepared for her. Evidently, the order had been taken improperly. The woman didn't even want this poor Mocha even after her order had been corrected. "You can have this one, too," the clerk offered. "No," the woman replied forcefully, picking up her new coffee and making her way to the door.So, this Mocha was just sitting

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-1969125775683881572010-07-16T17:14:00.006-04:002010-07-17T06:41:15.198-04:00

Randy and I really enjoy going to baseball games in small towns. Last night, he took me to Kannapolis to see the Intimidators. We had a great time. Although it was a little warm out there, even at twilight, it was "Thirsty Thursday," so drinks were discount priced! And no trip to a ballgame is complete without a bag of salted-in-the-shell peanuts! I love these things! In fact, I was taking this

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-83094795024066892010-07-16T17:05:00.003-04:002010-07-16T17:14:38.684-04:00

Here are a few photos for an update on my Dad's addition! My Dad's future bathroom. The hole is where the roll-in, curbless shower will go. Lots of grab bars and a really great shower fixture picked out! The door will go, obviously, and instead there will be a pass-through laundry chute. The washer and dryer are on the other side of that door. Here's a view from Dad's bedroom.And here's the view

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-60147308380792918042010-07-06T09:07:00.003-04:002010-07-06T09:15:20.090-04:00

Okay ... I know I probably shouldn't have, but I did. And I'm loving every, single, rich, delicious piece of it!I made brown-sugar fudge!!! Have you ever eaten the Butterscotch Squares at See's Candies? One taste of those fabulous, melt-in-your-mouth pieces of candy and I'm done. I'm hooked. I can't stop myself from going back for another ... and another ... and yes, even another! It doesn't

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-25974447851653879522010-06-19T07:08:00.004-04:002010-06-19T07:38:30.259-04:00

Yep, it's official. I've started a new project. Only I have help on this one! We're building an addition onto our house so we can move my Dad home! Two weeks ago, the man came and scraped all of our stairs right off the house! He scraped up all of our patio, our gas grill and, sadly, even our 30+-year-old blueberry bushes (which, I might add, were loaded with unripened berries. It looked to be a

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-60683650243780752632010-05-11T06:20:00.003-04:002010-05-11T06:27:09.034-04:00

This cat thinks he's pretty cool!Cool Cat is knit almost completely in the round on size US 8 double-pointed needles, then felted in the washing machine. The only sewing is to add his ears after felting ... and to sew up his bottom! Now, how cool is that? His design is available for only $2.50 at The Pattern Box and on Ravelry.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-55797067556688333722010-04-26T18:33:00.003-04:002010-04-26T18:41:54.776-04:00

Before I get started writing about all the new design ideas popping into my head, I have to say a huge "Thank You" to everyone who has been so kind to comment regarding my Mom's death. It's been very hard these last few weeks. I am trying to move forward, knowing my Mom is rejoicing in heaven ... but I miss her ... and it's still really, really bizarre to think that I won't see her anymore. In

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-71526055563381628732010-04-10T08:55:00.007-04:002010-04-10T20:03:36.191-04:00

My Wonderful MomDorothea A. MummFebruary 8, 1926-April 1, 2010 I miss her so much So sudden ... so unexpected ... my Mom's death. Now, my Dad, whose health has been fragile for so long, faces the future without her by his side. Please keep him in your prayers. Things my Mom loved:Heath BarsPeanut-butter filled pretzelsGinger alePancakes and baconCoffee with creamWalkingSitting outsideHer red

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-33240639519669756332010-03-21T10:26:00.004-04:002010-03-21T10:40:22.661-04:00

Introducing the Tapestry Rabbit and the Topiary Rabbit ... Tapestry Rabbit Topiary Rabbit... both are knit on double-pointed needles with wool yarn, then felted in your washing machine.The Topiary Rabbit is knit with wool held together with one strand of Little Flowers novelty yarn. This one is Dappled Forest.The Tapestry Rabbit is embroidered with simple stitches using Knit Picks Palette yarns.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-34609427591948910472010-03-19T18:27:00.003-04:002010-03-19T18:31:25.943-04:00

Finally! The first signs of Spring are popping up here and there in the most unexpected places. A return to sunshine, warm weather and all the hope that it brings with it! A new season! As I usher in Spring 2010, I am still in the midst of all the health issues with my parents ... my mother is the one now in the hospital ... my dad still trying to recover from his hip surgery, now has bronchitis

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-19246273393579175062010-01-31T19:26:00.004-05:002010-01-31T19:28:25.802-05:00

Here's Maggie waiting to get back inside!Here's why:She doesn't like the ice on her feet ... but she's not crazy about her boots, either!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-89631585495279221792010-01-10T08:21:00.003-05:002010-01-10T08:35:10.694-05:00

I can't believe it! Here it is: January 10, 2010! Do we say, "Twenty-10" now? Or is it "Two thousand ten?" I can't decide. It seems futuristic either way! Especially to look at it!I haven't been posting lately ... not because of the holidays and baking and wrapping and cleaning ... nope. It's because my father has been so seriously ill. These past few months ... from October to now ... have just

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-2630947026709579012009-12-22T09:30:00.002-05:002009-12-22T09:40:05.309-05:00

Here's Maggie, our Bearded Collie ... she just celebrated her 12th birthday on November 30! She's just been groomed and ready to have some fun!Here's our under 6-foot-tall Christmas tree. I always buy our trees from the same family every year. I love to have a small enough tree so that I can reach the top without a ladder! Once it's done up with ornaments, lights and tinsel, it looks very much

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-91251380403666710142009-12-05T10:14:00.006-05:002009-12-05T11:09:30.355-05:00

In the midst of all the turmoil, I still have to focus on finishing this major Christmas project. I thought I'd share it with you while there's still plenty of time for you to try it, if you'd like, for this Christmas.My parents moved into an assisted-living residence Sept. of 2008. There are so many caregivers there and people who try to help out that I really wanted to give them some small

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-5898524930317644972009-11-20T06:53:00.006-05:002009-11-20T07:58:21.760-05:00

Before I introduce you to one of my latest designs, I want to take a moment to update you ... when I first started this blog, I wrote entries that were quite a bit like the weekly columns I used to write for the newspaper ... I wrote a lot about my life and the quirky things that happen. Once I started knitting so much, though, I sort of changed the direction of the blog and it became more of an

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-478194714239202492009-11-01T18:53:00.004-05:002009-11-01T19:05:37.234-05:00

Maile and Leilani are in the front, surrounded by all their new friends!Here are the finished eight additional mermaids.Each one, although the same pattern, is really unique! The way each felted is slightly different, as are the faces and personalities. Now that they are finished, I hate parting with them!This has really been a great learning experience for me! I now know why I prefer to design a

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-20698153685863241452009-10-26T07:55:00.007-04:002009-10-26T08:53:49.654-04:00

I know, I know. I should really hold off on this one and post it more toward Christmas (or at least after Thanksgiving), but I just couldn't help myself. As long as I'm on the topic of cookies, I have to say: The "Bachelor Button" cookie recipe has been found! I don't know where this original recipe came from ... and the handwriting is not my mother's. I have a feeling it may have been given to

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-14486444235327728892009-10-25T18:14:00.011-04:002009-10-26T08:27:40.665-04:00

Maybe it's because the house is finally clean ... or maybe it's the chilly air with that pungent aroma of freshly-turned earth ... or maybe it's because the leaves have gone from green to red and gold and now come floating down from tree branches like soft, colorful snowflakes, each one beautifully unique ... or maybe it's all these things mixed together that make me remember Fall from my

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-34105117491022152192009-10-24T09:16:00.005-04:002009-10-24T11:34:41.078-04:00

Anybody who knows me, knows I'm not a very good housekeeper. It's not that I don't want to be a very good housekeeper, it's just that I have so many projects I'm working on, as well as finishing these last years of homeschooling our youngest (who happens to be celebrating his 16th birthday TODAY!!!) ... along with trying to make sure my elderly parents are doing okay ... which leaves me little

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-10352097272651310472009-10-03T13:02:00.004-04:002009-10-03T13:06:53.291-04:00

Here's a preview of some of the new patterns I'm designing for Christmas 2009. This is the first in my Jolly Gumdrop Doll collection. She's fresh out of the washer, has been stuffed and is drying. She'll have "candy" hair and a tiny "candy" face ... she'll be joined by her Jolly Gumdrop brother, their snowman and, of course, Santa, himself! Stay tuned ...

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-48211755131667603472009-09-13T18:08:00.003-04:002009-09-13T18:12:03.532-04:00

This is my Dad's bear ... circa 1923! Isn't he wonderful? I've always loved his face and the fact that he can move his arms and his legs. This bear and all the wonderful vintage Steiff stuffed animals provide a never-ending source of inspiration for me ... from body shape, to texture, to expression.My Dad still loves this bear, too! I remember when I was little, my Dad came home from work one

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-1288904302305043352009-09-10T06:14:00.006-04:002009-09-10T06:49:37.151-04:00

The morning air has a decidedly chilly note to it these days ... and the lovely green leaves of summer have already started to yellow. All of my squash plants have suddenly died. They've left little trace of themselves, as if they've simply packed up and sped away overnight!The two remaining tadpoles have their legs now ... and I'm just waiting for them to lose their tails.Here's one of the

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-72104827761753566742009-08-09T16:49:00.005-04:002009-08-10T08:37:51.938-04:00

Finally! A new post and a new pattern! I'm sorry it's taken me so long!!! Believe it or not, I've been working hard most of the summer cleaning out my parents' house, but I managed to find a little time to design these whimsical friends! The 8-page pattern includes all the directions for knitting both the mermaid and the seahorse, then felting in your washing machine. The directions for

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-16807823976502157392009-07-10T08:49:00.003-04:002009-07-10T09:02:56.223-04:00

I'm super busy these days working on some new patterns, while at the same time cleaning out our house! Randy has officially "approved" of the guest bedroom/storeroom/old computer room to be turned into whatever I can make it ... I think he heartily agreed just to get the stash of yarn and books out of our bedroom ... and the dining room ... and the family room ... oh ... and the living room, too!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-84872341037655456262009-07-08T08:44:00.010-04:002009-07-08T10:58:13.497-04:00

Amybel from Knitting in my Backyarn blog has given me this wonderful Blog Award! It's the first award my blog has ever been given. So, here's a big "THANK YOU!" to Amybel!The rules: Accept the award and post it on your blog with the name of the person that gave it to you. Pass on the award to as many bloggers as you wish and let them know you chose them for the award.I give the award to:Jennifer

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-80838887192651169942009-06-19T19:28:00.004-04:002009-06-19T19:55:38.126-04:00

"Exercise" hoops (not to be confused with children's hoops) are becoming more and more popular these days ... and, at anywhere from $39 to $59 for a colorful hoop, it pays to experiment a little and make your own! I found a great website with video tutorials here on Squidoo.The hoop is recommended to be from about 39 to 43 inches across. I made this one to fit my son, really ... measuring the

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-21770199858459406952009-06-19T14:56:00.002-04:002009-06-19T15:02:32.019-04:00

Isn't it WONDERFUL?!!! It works perfectly! Glass globe, wonderful Acorn sticker and everything! Now, I'm off to order the Rain-blo gumballs!!! I feel like I'm in 2nd grade again ... I'm at the A&P grocery store after school ... and my Mom has given us all a nickel to spend on our way out! My favorite gumballs were the blue ones!!!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-51155861083938979762009-06-15T08:20:00.008-04:002009-06-15T09:14:25.229-04:00

I changed the date and anniversary line to three lines, instead. Also, I couldn't decide if I should put their marriage date or the current anniversary, so I finally put the current anniversary date ... that's the date of the jar, as well! Another close up of the final jar ... here are some photos before I changed the anniversary. Here's a full view of the Happy Anniversary Jar for my sister and

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-73833608345888999182009-06-09T11:32:00.003-04:002009-06-09T11:36:18.489-04:00

Meet the newest addition to The Pattern Box animal patterns!I have finally written up and taken some photographs of the Giraffe pattern. If you're interested, he (or she!!!) is for sale at The Pattern Box. After purchasing, you can download it right away! Why not turn your own backyard into a jungle this summer and knit the lion and the elephant, too? All are knit in the round on double-pointed

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-8563200611386520462009-06-07T19:49:00.004-04:002009-06-08T07:56:17.746-04:00

These mice are taking a much-needed holiday in the sun after staying inside all winter long! Their bodies and heads are one piece, and knit in the round on size US 8 double-pointed needles. They are super-quick and super easy, but definitely not boring! You'll find the pattern for sale both on Ravelry and at The Pattern Box website. I hope you'll take the 7-page pattern along on your holiday and

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-65968881973697591022009-06-04T07:59:00.005-04:002009-06-04T09:07:56.380-04:00

Here's the non-felted version. Just use size US 5 double-pointed needles. One skein of pink Cascade 220 and one skein of green will make 4 glass cozies and 4 napkin rings!If you'd like a felted version, simply use size US 8 double-pointed needles. Still, it only takes one skein of pink Cascade 22o and one of green to make four glass cozies and four napkin rings. When I was little (and I'm much

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-51801366394024961292009-06-01T15:27:00.003-04:002009-06-01T15:37:07.826-04:00

Looky! Looky! My treasure box arrived! Chock full of odd little charms! Don't you just want to dig in and see what's inside? If you really can't resist, go to eBay and look at all the vintage charms for sale. You won't believe how many there are!Here's a closer view of some of them. This batch was incredible! Truly a mini wonderland! I just purchased another batch on eBay with over 300 charms in

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-53055772465063660762009-06-01T14:50:00.003-04:002009-06-01T14:57:42.935-04:00

The battery-operated candle inside gives off a lot of light! Hanging a few of these lanterns from tree branches or shepherd's hooks will add a bit of charm to any evening garden party.This is the "tall" tea light available from battery operated candles online.I used simple Swiss darning to make colorful designs on the lantern before felting. The free, 7-page pattern gives you all the

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-44546231909950927002009-05-25T19:44:00.002-04:002009-05-25T19:48:54.698-04:00

Here's my latest little critter ... I wanted to knit (and felt) a cat that could be done all in one piece, including the arms and legs and tail, and who could sit, as well. So, here he is: Meet Cool Cat, Version One!The only sewing you have to do is to sew up his bottom and stitch on his ears ... that's it!Here's a side view. I am working on a smaller version and a larger version. As soon as all

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-89244416777199204572009-05-14T19:57:00.003-04:002009-05-14T20:05:42.423-04:00

After receiving a couple of emails from people who found it difficult to print out some of my free patterns from my blog, I have finally gotten around to adding pdf versions of the Sockless Sock Monkey knitting pattern and the Take-Along Sun knitting pattern to my website. If you remember, the Take-Along Sun was wonderfully translated into French and that version is also available. You'll find

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-17389548151607986452009-05-11T09:49:00.002-04:002009-05-11T10:01:25.409-04:00

I'm sorry for having been away for over a month! I can't believe it! Things got rather hectic the first few weeks of April ... what with my father's surgery and then birthdays and Easter and ... well, in other words, LIFE going on! I thought I'd be back sooner, though, but then I caught a cold (or something like it) and haven't felt myself since ... and then my daughters came home from the

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-29847529914111960732009-03-31T07:13:00.004-04:002009-03-31T07:20:49.239-04:00

Here's something else you can do with my free Panoramic Egg and Egg Box pattern. After you've felted the egg, carefully cut the top off (only about the top inch or so), then cut out "V" shapes all around. I stuffed a little bit of my Kool-Aid-dyed roving into the bottom, then put Big Chick in. This is the egg knit on size US 8 needles. Try the smaller version (knit on size US 6 needles) to have

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-36414515298591647112009-03-27T12:04:00.003-04:002009-03-27T12:11:44.029-04:00

It's a gloomy day today, but it is getting warmer. At least I didn't have to wear my winter coat (which is full of Maggie's hair right now) ... It's raining again, though. I am so very, very tired of the rain.I should feel good ... I mean, I think I finally found all of my father's information needed for the tax preparer (it's all so confusing to me!!!!) ... and I called in to refill all my

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-27448904361302674022009-03-19T12:28:00.003-04:002009-03-19T12:39:08.023-04:00

Here is my latest Paper Doll Family. I haven't decided what to name them yet. They are really big compared to my other paper dolls ... and quite old. I'm not sure of their age, but Dad here has a bit of mold growing on his head. I think this is really rather odd, but adds to the overall creepiness of this group. The child is quite big.I dressed Dad in one of his outfits. Notice how he holds a

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-72638566997728672352009-03-19T12:03:00.004-04:002009-03-19T12:45:28.907-04:00

I have been having tons of fun with these old, crepe-paper decorating-idea books from Dennison Manufacturing that I've been collecting. These were published in the '20s and '30s and they are just chock full of fantastic ideas. I am really quite inspired to make up knitting patterns for all the decorations they have! Centerpieces could very well be one of my (many) next projects. There are still

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-19536953392750927742009-03-13T06:37:00.003-04:002009-03-13T06:48:32.300-04:00

I am determined. I will learn Latin! I know, I know. This will be my fourth ... or maybe my fifth attempt at joining another online class!!! But this time I will succeed! In reality, I know I probably shouldn't even try, but I feel compelled to do it. Yes! Absolutely compelled! I have so many Latin textbooks and workbooks and cds lying around this house that it's embarrassing! My first attempt (

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-47344230207979355192009-03-11T07:41:00.006-04:002009-03-11T08:21:33.481-04:00

Last night, as my husband and I were chatting about the economy, I decided to do something. I'm lowering all the prices on my patterns to $2.50 each. I hope this enables you to knit a toy! Remember: It's not a temporary sale. This is now the regular price. I've also adjusted all the prices on Ravelry.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-30691940871396272462009-03-04T17:44:00.003-05:002009-03-04T17:46:57.164-05:00

Looky! Looky! I just won these on eBay and they came today. I know why they're so happy! They are wearing shorts! (Okay, so dad has weird, long socks on, but still, he's wearing shorts)! And look at that sun outside!Aren't they wonderful? They came with tons of clothes and the house, too! It's all in perfect condition and copyrighted a year before I was born! Gee, that makes me feel well

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-45485411655937255142009-03-02T11:24:00.010-05:002009-03-29T08:03:46.200-04:00

Here's the finished nut cupWhen you cut out the paper to cover your nut cup, cut across the grain of the paper ... as opposed to cutting with the grain. The grain runs from top to bottom, so cut across from side to side. Measure your strip so that it will be about one-half inch taller than the cup. Stretch the paper strip around the cup. The taller part will fold over the top of the cup all on

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-53343420203306563852009-03-02T08:14:00.004-05:002009-03-02T08:22:48.387-05:00

Up until last week when I was pondering how to embroider my Doll Baby's face, I always embroidered free hand. In fact, I had tried water-soluble and air-soluble pens before, but the felt and knitted faces were too bumpy and didn't really take to be written on top of ... so I just winged it. Most of the time I had to re-stitch the face again and again because it wasn't the face I saw in my head.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-82631415307386712142009-02-25T15:24:00.004-05:002009-02-25T16:17:57.251-05:00

Yippee! I'm so excited! The wonderful online knitting magazine, POPKNITS, is set to publish my Sugarless Panoramic Egg and Egg Box pattern in the Spring issue! The issue is scheduled to go live on March 4, so circle that date in red on your calendars!!! You'll love the entire issue! And if you're a Ravelry member, you can get a glimpse of the patterns from Popknits' Spring preview!! These are

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-81119402638645272702009-02-24T22:17:00.003-05:002009-02-25T09:24:19.785-05:00

Here is Doll Baby! She's all finished! She took on a personality all her own! I was stitching her hair in place, thinking about how I would make her bonnet and then I realized, she didn't want or need a bonnet! Her head is very poofy in back, which made a great 1920s bob! She is super easy to knit up (I finished her in just a couple of evenings), and she is very huggable! I have posted the free

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-89328025223006566182009-02-23T17:53:00.002-05:002009-02-23T17:59:39.955-05:00

My fascination with novelties/toys from the 1920s continues! My Doll Baby still has lots of work to go ... including my making her hair and bonnet and finishing stuffing and then closing up the hole. I don't really like the stuffing I have right now. It's very lumpy! Ick!Anyhow, I hope you will like her when she's all finished. She's very soft and cuddly and, as there are few seams (only to

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-25003364800044832892009-02-22T09:19:00.005-05:002009-02-22T09:47:41.111-05:00

Knitted/felted garden lanterns in a variety of shapes can make an evening magical!What do you think? Here is the front of the lantern. I used duplicate stitch (or swiss darning) to make the colored areas before felting. Here is the side view ... A small, battery-operated votive tea-light candle illuminates the lantern. No worries about fires! The little candle remains cool!Remember those paper

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-30955881555519524992009-02-03T21:24:00.002-05:002009-02-03T21:33:15.278-05:00

I've had so many ideas running around in my head lately ... which always leads to new patterns in the works! They've been a long time in development ... and are still being tested, but when they are finally unveiled, I think (and I hope!!!) that you will really enjoy them! I have all kinds of different projects ... from toys to decorations and beyond! I am bursting! (Really, I am! I keep biting

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-68805793904965837192009-01-28T20:38:00.003-05:002009-01-28T20:40:34.428-05:00

I finally finished the long-promised Christmas present of the bird mobile! I used my blue jay pattern and altered it to make a yellow finch, a black bird and a cardinal, too.I found the design for hanging them all from the book "Sweet Needle Felts" by Jenn Docherty. I think it really looks better in person!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-12652106055436846282009-01-24T21:39:00.008-05:002009-01-24T21:44:39.105-05:00

I know it's early, but how about thinking about Valentine's Day? I just needle felted these little guys! The fellow (on the right) is supposed to be kneeling, but you can't tell! I just used two pipe cleaners twisted into hearts with legs. I added pipe-cleaner arms, then needle felted roving all over them. A bit of black roving finishes their faces. It's so much fun! I happened to have some tiny

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-66303548314966161682009-01-24T10:16:00.006-05:002009-01-24T10:28:56.170-05:00

Needle-felted flowers using a cookie cutter for the shaping. Needle-felted dog ... looks just like the wired-haired fox terrier we had when I was growing up! You can make any kind of dog or cat or fish or anything you want! It's incredible!I was testing out some needle felting the other day and am pretty happy with the results. I have done lots of needle felting in the past, but I never used

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-31143843321326686712009-01-21T16:30:00.004-05:002009-01-21T16:34:30.636-05:00

Look at what arrived today! My wonderful aunt sent these while vacationing in Florida! It's just what we needed! A big, delicious box of fresh, juicy SUNSHINE!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-60929716564722543072009-01-21T16:22:00.006-05:002009-01-21T16:34:52.568-05:00

Our backyard covered with frosting! Maggie does not like cold feet! Yesterday it snowed. I used to love the snow when I was little and I never could understand why my father would grumble at it all the time. (We lived in Virginia when I was a child and every year we got LOTS and lots of snow.)Anyhow, now that I'm an adult ... and my children have things to do and jobs to work and that sort of

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-19688677247558867632009-01-18T13:37:00.002-05:002009-01-18T13:40:49.493-05:00

The Pattern Box email is back up and running ... and all my folders were magically restored today! All my inbox, sent mail, etc.! Yippee!Meanwhile, a GIANT thank you to all those who have volunteered to be test knitters for my new designs!!! I greatly appreciate your willingness to try out these new patterns.I hope you all are enjoying a wonderful weekend, despite the weird temperatures across

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-21942405649832379302009-01-16T15:39:00.002-05:002009-01-16T15:42:18.752-05:00

Hello! Yesterday, you would know the day I post a request for test knitters and directed everyone to use my Pattern Box email address to let me know if you were interested or not ... well, that very day, my web host had an "issue" with email and although it's back up now, ALL my folders have been emptied! No inbox! No sent mail! No folders at all!!! YIKES!So, if you were interested in test

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-79280432337265252322009-01-15T08:34:00.003-05:002009-01-15T08:39:07.427-05:00

As the new year is in full swing, my brain seems to be on overload with new ideas for knitting/felting projects! I can't knit them all fast enough! I have three worked out so far ... two are toys and the third is a party favor.I am wondering if anyone out there would care to be a test knitter for one of them? Test knitting would require a bit of secrecy, though ... you see, I'm hoping to try to

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-5728942585092057042009-01-09T07:07:00.003-05:002009-03-02T12:53:13.631-05:00

This is my first attempt at covering a little paper nut cup with crepe paper. I think it came out pretty well, save for the not-nearly-twisted-enough paper handle. I actually ordered a book from Amazon.com that supposedly gave instructions, but I'm afraid the descriptions did not include the pleated covering I had envisioned. So, I tried several different things and finally came up with this one.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-16353989219278299202009-01-07T12:40:00.003-05:002009-01-07T17:54:35.833-05:00

Today's weather report. Believe it or not, these are not black and white photos. These are COLOR photos. Taken today right around noon. Wow, the wind is crazy out there, too! I had to park on the 6th floor of a parking deck when bringing my dad to the doctor today ... and it sounded so forlorn and creepy up there!!! YIKES! After all that, his appointment had been canceled and they called the

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-5276723465247451422008-12-23T07:32:00.003-05:002008-12-23T07:39:03.594-05:00

My sister forwarded me this link to A Parent's Wish ... which probably would be more appropriately placed on my elderly parents blog ... but just had to share it here. These past few years of helping my elderly parents ... particularly this last year ... has brought many aspects of my life ... and "life," in general, into clearer view.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-74290990623990770082008-12-22T09:24:00.002-05:002008-12-22T09:33:24.647-05:00

As I sit here, sipping my morning coffee, I just really want each and every moment of Christmas vacation to happily sink in! I used to envision all kinds of perfect, glossy-magazine-style images for what a perfect Christmas morning would be like ... inevitably I'd be disappointed! I guess it comes with age ... but I don't feel like that anymore. I have no more glossy images in my head. Just being

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-44944121571340790562008-12-11T14:57:00.005-05:002008-12-11T15:06:39.716-05:00

Here's a last-minute decoration for you ... but after felting a few of the "cranberries" my hands were quite sore! I've posted the recipe on my Pattern Box website. (Shhhh ... I think, really, it's a lot easier to just pop a batch of popcorn and grab a bag of cranberries from the grocery store!) But, if you want a no-calorie version, this one could be for you. I hope you enjoy!

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-6597452189781537372008-11-29T11:24:00.005-05:002008-11-29T11:30:23.638-05:00

I am offering a special Christmas Sale at the Pattern Box now through December 31st. If you buy one pattern, you may choose another for free! All you have to do is email me with your free pattern choice after you've purchased one through the Pattern Box.Please email me with your choice at either: amwheeless@carolina.rr.com or anita@thepatternbox.comIn your email, please tell which pattern you

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-72441702299569495502008-11-29T10:18:00.004-05:002008-11-29T10:24:49.273-05:00

We are putting together photos and videos of my Dad, whose 85th birthday was on Nov. 21, for a "video tribute" that we're having filmed (with him being interviewed) ... and I came across this darling photo of him when he was a baby. Also, I noticed the little doll leaning on his leg! Anybody have any idea what doll this might be? This photo was taken in the early 1920s ... the doll sort of looks

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-24517394218070788592008-11-20T15:23:00.004-05:002008-11-20T16:07:12.989-05:00

I just have to share a couple of wonderful spots I like to go and look around for inspiration ... or to go and just think about something really whimsical and nostalgic to take me away from all the problems of the day. For one thing, I love to go to eBay and page through all the Steiff animals for sale. I don't really care for any of the new ones, but I absolutely love the early, vintage Steiff.

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-24436017067788312082008-11-20T14:50:00.003-05:002008-11-20T15:00:56.661-05:00

Well, I spilled the beans on what I'm giving my veterinarians this year ... I kinda, sorta hinted at it way back in the summer when I brought some of my toys in for them to see ... but today, when I went over there just to buy more prescription food and arthritis supplements for Maggie, well, I couldn't help myself. Now I'm committed. I must finish.I'm working on my squirrel pattern for one of

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-755123832220345418.post-71588511966156074362008-11-09T07:11:00.002-05:002008-11-09T07:19:34.143-05:00

I can't believe it. I always look forward to my copies of Simply Knitting magazine appearing in my mailbox every month, but this time, well ... er ... gasp ... I couldn't believe my eyes. MY Gingberbread Man (no, I should say an IMPOSTER) Gingerbread Man was on the cover! I couldn't believe it. He even has a pocket for fingers and everything!!!! OH NO! The "Icing" was even done in chain stitch

Nean the Beanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02251315510411787805noreply@blogger.com0