Chip-'n-for-Dale

AND NOW IS THE TIME TO SAY GOODBYE

2006-08-02T17:24:00.000-07:00

*****Effective immediately, we will not be accepting Paypal donations through Chip 'n for Dale and will discontinue daily postings. All future donations and well wishes can be received by notifying Dale and Chris Jarrett directly at Dales Journal http://www.jarrett.ws/dale/.*****

AND THE WINNERS ARE

2006-08-01T16:31:00.000-07:00

____________________________________________________________
"Every gift from a friend is a wish for your happiness.”
Richard Bach

Winners should send their snail mail address to: chipnfordale@yahoo.com by Tuesday, August 8 so that prizes can be mailed out no later than August 11, 2006.

Again, we really appreciate your participation in Chip ‘n for Dale.

You have all been wonderful!

Day 1: 6 oz “Roses for You” Roving donated by Janette K……………J. Lynn

Day 2: Socks that Rock “Highway 30” donated by Janette K,
Think Pink! Watch donated by Juli T. and Lauren L.…..J.Schaefer

Day 3: “Creatures of the Reef” shawl knit and donated by Janette K….Morning Meadows Sundries

Day 4: Opal “Petticoat” Sock Yarn donated by Jackie C……M. Abraham

Day 5: 1 lb. Purple Merino/Silk Roving donated by Jackie C…….S. Sheppard

Day 6: Mystery Gift donated by Jackie C.…..G. Brandt

Day 7: Merino/Tencel Sock Yarn “It’s the Berries!” donated by Susan’s SpinningBunny…..C. Raynor

Day 8: Eucalan Wool Wash & Mr. Clean Magic Eraser donated by Janette K…..H. Carnes

Day 9: AMC Movie Passes, a Journal, “Knitting, A Novel” by Anne Bartlett
donated by Jackie C. and Janette K…….D. Perrone

Day 10: “Nature Knitting” donated by Janette K……….C. Todd

Day 11: “Heal My Hands” Gift Pack donated by Claudia D. of Heal My Hands…..K. Hausman

Day 12: Basket fabricated and donated by Melody R, Think Pink! Watch donated by Juli T & Lauren L.…..T. Allen

Day 13: Creative Moments Scrapbook donated by Joyce L.…..C. Whisman

Day 14: Lithograph and Mickey Mouse Frame donated by Jackie C….. C. Spurgeon

Day 15: Notion’s Jar with Knitting Accessories donated by Jackie C. & Michelle H….
R. Colcord-Durant

Day 16: Bead Amulet Kit donated by Rhonda C…..D. Thompson

Day 17: Sweater donated by Mary of the Knitting Zone, Ashland Bay Merino "Foxglove" donated by Jackie C.…..J. deLong

Day 18: “The Happy Hooker” donated by the Orlando Knit Wits and Borders,
Alice Starmore “Hebridean” yarn donated by Cydney Y…..Serenity Farms

Day 19: Susan’s Spinning Bunny “Denim” Sock Yarn donated by Janette K….A. Osborne

Day 20: "Knitting Year Round" and "Quick Knits" donated by Jackie C….C. Yerushalni

Day 21: Pottery donated by Linda S, Think Pink! Watch donated by Juli T. and Lauren L….C. Fletcher

Day 22: “Spinning Yarns and Spinning Tales” donated by Borders/Orlando Knit Wits, Tussah Silk roving donated by Heritage Yarns….M. Harrison

Day 23: Stole knit and donated by Michelle H….. J. Hansen

Day 24: Beaded Chataleine donated by Cindy T, Knitting Totes donated by Michelle H..…..J. Hansen

Day 25: Boucle Yarn donated by Heritage Yarn…..L. Feldman

Day 26: Peach Handknit Sweater donated by Mary, Knitting Zone,
"Knitting Rules" donated by Borders and the Orlando Knit Wits…..D. Thompson

Day 27: Lantern Moon Origami Bag and “Wendy Knits” donated by
Wendy, Yarns 2 Ewe…P. Howse

Day 28: Chenille Yarn “Majesty” donated by Heritage Yarns….J. Toia

Day 29: Chenille Yarn “Blueberry Hill” donated by Heritage Yarns.....
V. Polichar

Day 30: Grape Arbor Shawl knit and donated by J. deL, Think Pink! Watch donated by Juli T. and Lauren L., Cartoon designed and donated by Gregg D. ….N. O’Donnell

We are also pleased to announce the highest bid for the Colinette Stash Pack, generously donated by Wendy, of Yarns 2 Ewe, Inc., was made by D. Brown.
Congratulations and thank you for your generosity!

The Mystery Revealed.....

2006-08-01T16:05:00.000-07:00

DAY 6 OF 30 - MYSTERY OFFERING REVEALED

For those of you who are curious as to what was in the hatbox:

DAY 15 OF 30 - INSIDE THE NOTION'S JAR

Michelle, of the Orlando Area Knitters and Spinners, fashioned the bead kit. Michelle has a wonderful eye for color and we know whoever wins this will be delighted!

DAY 30 OF 30

2006-07-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

************THIS JUST IN!**************

As the end of Chip ‘n for Dale drew near, many people asked if we were planning to continue the blog until Dale was released from the hospital. Janette and I contemplated the idea for some time. After going back and forth - should we, shouldn’t we - we decided 6 pm would be the deadline to make a final decision. We got together over a cup of coffee to wait for 6 pm to come. In an instant everything changed. We got an instant message from Dale, “My counts have gone up! and I will be released from the hospital tomorrow afternoon!”

*******************************************************************
We are now, along with Dale and Chris, saying our thank you’s and goodbye’s for your support in making Chip‘n for Dale a success!

*******************************************************************

Dear Friends,
We do feel that you are all our friends now. We are humbled by the outpouring of prayers and support that we have received through the Chip 'n for Dale Fund. Of course the money is greatly needed and deeply appreciated but more importantly the feeling of love and caring that has come from all of you has been close to overwhelming.

We appreciate everyone's good wishes, prayers, good thoughts and wish each of you could receive a really special prize. Hopefully the major outcome will be the remembering of an amazing effort on the part of Jackie and Janette to help a friend and a blessing for you as a caring giver. What a wonderful experience it has been and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Chip 'n For Dale started among a group of fiber friends but seems to have transcended that and blossomed into a world of simply caring people.

We feel one of the reasons why Dale's progress is good is because so many people are praying and caring for us. We truly feel the Lord's presence in this journey. If we can ever help any of you in similar circumstances, please do not hesitate to call on us. Dale's recovery will take approximately a year but there are still many things she can do to help others in need.

Please know your generous contributions will go towards our extra expenses related to this transplant and our heartfelt thanks will be returned to you many times over as these dollars are put to very good use.

Always,

Chris and Dale Jarrett

*******************************************************************

When we decided to start Chip ‘n for Dale, our objective was to help Dale and Chris in what we thought would be a very small way. The outpouring of generosity, compassion and grace from the fiber community, vendors and most of all complete strangers, has been so overwhelming and rewarding for us.

As one very generous yarn store owner said, "The knitting community has been so good to me, it is my pleasure to give back to the knitting community." For all the love, friendship and community service Dale has given, it was time for all of us to give to her.

Dale’s journey is far from over. Please continue sending prayers, get well wishes and monetary donations to http://www.jarrett.ws/dale/

To each and every one of you, a simple thank-you does not convey what we are feeling, but we will say it anyway…Thank you for making Chip ‘n for Dale the success that it is and was!

Jackie and Janette

Day 30 of 30

Today’s offerings are very, very special.

The first Grand Prize is the beautiful Grape Arbor Shawl designed by Wendy Johnson, author of “Wendy Knits.” The shawl was lovingly knit by Jody of the Orlando Knitters and Spinners. The yarn is a beautiful pale mauve which complements the pattern beautifully! It is amazing! Thank you Jody for knitting this lovely shawl for Chip 'n for Dale!

Since Juli and Lauren’s “Think Pink!” watches began our Chip 'n for Dale journey with us, we thought it only fitting that we would end with one of their beautiful watches. Just a reminder, if you are not today’s lucky winner, but you would like to proudly wear (or gift!) a Think Pink watch, you can buy one by emailing Lauren directly, at DoubleL1234@gmail.com. They are $15 each, and remember, all proceeds are forwarded to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Janette’s son-in-law, Gregg, is a very talented and creative artist. When she approached him about drawing a cartoon as an offering, “something to do with – like sheep” Gregg came up with the following design. He has a terrific sense of humor too!

If you’re wondering how he does it: “I always start my artwork with a blue pencil and a piece of paper. I get the rough sketch done on paper, sometimes in two or three parts. With this drawing, I drew the sheep and the background separate. The next step takes the drawings into the computer. I scan the images and then combine them in Photoshop to make the sheep set into the background. Next I use another computer program to redraw the lines to make them crisp and clean (much like inking a sketch.) Finally, I take the finished drawing and paint it in Corel Painter. For this particular piece, I used acrylics as a base and then blended them with a smooth blending brush. I finished it off with some highlights using an airbrush. After that, it's just sizing and printing!” We love it!!

To everyone who has donated an offering for Chip ‘n for Dale, we couldn’t have done it without you and it has been appreciated more than you know!

Ellen (OAKS) recently commented, “I can’t believe the number of people that have no personal knowledge of Dale, other than a connection through a friend, or a love of knitting (in which case they are only friends we haven’t met yet!) that have opened their hearts and wallets and have been so generous.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves! Thank you all!!!

We normally would start our day with a quote, however, today we felt it would be more fitting to close with a quote.

“Let us be grateful to people who make us happy;
they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom".
Marcel Proust

Day 29 OF 30

2006-07-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

____________________________________________________________
"Our Similarities bring us to a common ground; Our Differences allow us to be fascinated by each other."
Tom Robbins

Dear Dale,

I know when I first joined knitting last year and wanted to knit socks as my first project, you all thought I was nuts. But Janette didn’t bat an eye; with her help, we took baby steps and I am now knitting toe-up, lace patterned socks and some intricate lace shawl patterns as well.

Sometimes, I think we are the Odd Couple.....I speak my mind.....Janette holds everything in.....I know how to “work a room”.....Janette never leaves her chair.....but.....we really are very much alike!

We are both from Brooklyn,

We both have 2 children – 1/girl – 1/boy ........

Our girls are the oldest,

Our daughters got married at the same time - Joanie in May and Caryn in February,

Both daughters married men whose last names are first names,

We both love knitting,

We both love to spin,

We both love good fiber,

We both love to spend money on yarn and roving,

We are both dedicated to our families,

We both don't sleep,

We both love animals,

We both spoil our children and animals,

We both have “issues” we deal with on a daily basis,

We both love food and iced coffee,

We also work very well together!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 29 Offering

Heritage Yarns has generously donated 2 skeins of chenille yarn (475 yards/skein) in the “Blueberry Hill” colorway.

DAY 28 OF 30

2006-07-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
"A single grateful thought toward heaven is the most complete prayer."
Gotthold Lessing

Dear Dale,

We hope that this Sunday brings you as much joy as last!!! In keeping with our Sunday tradition, here are some more well-wishes!

"After reading all of your entries, I went to Dale's blog and read hers. I think all of you are absolutely wonderful! You are my new heroes.".....Deborah

"Hope my little bit helps and Dale grows STRONGER everyday! Blessings."..... Bea

"Thanks for your great efforts and work.".....Sheila

"Hope the fund raising and Dale's treatment is a big success.".....Susan

"Good luck with fundraising.".....Katie

"Always happy to help a fellow knitter.".....Valerie

"I hope everything goes well for her. I'm glad she has friends like you.
Thanks for doing this.".....Laura

"I know how hard it can be to deal with medical problems and their constantly rising costs so I wanted to help Dale and her family.".....Cheryl

Here are some photos of yesterday's knitting group at Barnes and Noble!

Here's Janette sewing together Judy's Dishcloth sweater.

And Judy trying it on to see how it fits.

Ellen is making a blanket out of lovely blue acrylic.

Jody is working on a blanket for her new niece or nephew to be .........

Judy is waiting patiently while Janette finishes the last touches on her top...now that we know it fits properly.........

Mary is working on a lovely pale pink shawl.......

Cindy is working on a beautiful purple top........

Helen is working on a sock.......

Melody is working on a mitten.......

And in between taking pictures, I was working on a Socks that Rock, "Fred Flintstone" toe-up sock.......

All the girls, send you lot of hugs and good wishes!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 28 OF 30

Margaret, of Heritage Yarns, has done it again! She has graciously donated 2 skeins (475 yards/skein) of 100% cotton chenille yarn in the “Majesty” color - beautiful blues and reds.

READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-07-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

WE’RE SPICING THINGS UP!!!!

We know any knitter would love to own this fabulous Colinette Stash Pack which retails for $225.00 but this price tag may make one hesitate. So.....thanks to the generosity of Wendy, Yarns 2 Ewe, Inc., we are able to offer this kit as a Bid-Offering.

Minimum Reserve: $50.00

Submit your highest bid to: chipnfordalebids@yahoo.com by noon on Monday, July 31. Include your name, email address and maximum bid. No bid received after noon on Monday will be accepted.

The highest bidder will be notified by email Monday evening at 5:30 p.m. EST. Payment must be made to Paypal by noon Tuesday, August 1. Follow the link from http://chip-n--for-dale.blogspot.com/.

*****Please note, failure of payment by noon, Tuesday, the second highest bidder will be declared the winner.*****

What is a Stash Pak?
A Stash Pack is a selection of 10 skeins of Colinette Yarns, hand-picked by color experts into fabulous Color Families. Make whatever you like or use the enclosed FREE pattern for a super-easy throw, shawl, or scarf.

The selection of colors varies and each Stash Pack is unique. The colorway we are offering is #10, Toffee.

Day 27 of 30

2006-07-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________ “I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream.”
Vincent Van Gogh

Dear Dale,

For your enjoyment, a different type of knitterly eye-candy:

And for your reading pleasure...

A Year's Spinning

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

He listened at the porch that day,

To hear the wheel go on, and on;

And then it stopped, ran back away,

While through the door he brought the sun:

But now my spinning is all done.

He sat beside me, with an oath

That love ne'er ended, once begun;

I smiled--believing for us both,

What was the truth for only one:

And now my spinning is all done.

My mother cursed me that I heard

A young man's wooing as I spun:

Thanks, cruel mother, for that word--

For I have, since, a harder known!

And now my spinning is all done.

I thought--O God!--my first-born's cry

Both voices to mine ear would drown:

I listened in mine agony--

It was the silence made me groan!

And now my spinning is all done.

Bury me 'twixt my mother's grave,

(Who cursed me on her death-bed lone):

And my dead baby's (God it save!)

Who, not to bless me, would not moan.

And now my spinning is all done.

A stone upon my heart and head,

But no name written on the stone!

Sweet neighbours, whisper low instead,

"This sinner was a loving one--

And now her spinning is all done.

And let the door ajar remain,

In case he should pass by anon;

And leave the wheel out very plain,--

That HE, when passing in the sun,

May see the spinning is all done.

DAY 27 OFFERING

Wendy, of Yarns 2 Ewe, Inc., in Houston has graciously donated a Lantern Moon Origami bag in dark blue and "Wendy Knits."

We can't thank her enough for her generosity!

Day 26 of 30

2006-07-27T02:57:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
"It is the friends that you can call at 4 A.M. that matter."
Marlene Dietrich

Dear Dale,

Still a very early riser, last Saturday morning I went online to check our entry.....The quote looked good.....the picture of the Cafe looked good.....I started reading the first few lines.....and quickly realized something was very, very wrong. BOING!

Instead of the lovely post on Saturday knitting with everyone’s pictures.....there were the words to a very long.....very filthy song, links and all! (I think it was a song.....could have been a poem.....but I panicked).

I looked at the clock.....way too early to wake up Jackie on her day off.

At 6:00, I felt I had no choice. I dialed Jackie apologizing for waking her up so early. (If you ever need someone to talk to in the wee hours of the morning.....Jackie wakes up very cordial and calm without a pot of coffee and a few hours of vegetating. I know and I was impressed!)

An hour and a half later, the original post was in its place and all was well in our world.

Bobby advised us to change the password to a more complex one, which we did. Future catastrophe hopefully avoided!

Why is it somebody always has to try and ruin a good thing.....

Love,

Jackie and Janette

P.S. Gregg was working late last night so Joanie came for dinner - my sock was on the table.....

Joan: Are these for me? (smiling)
Me: No
Joan: Are they for Gregg? He just said yesterday he wanted more socks.
Me: No
Joan: They would be perfect for Gregg if they didn't have the blue and the green.

Bobby: You mean if they were brown?

Day 26 Offering

Mary, of the Knitting Zone, has donated this beautiful peach sweater designed by Louisa Harding and knit in Kashmir DK, size 34. The cablework and stitch definition is just gorgeous!

Borders and the Orlando Knit Wits were kind enough to donate Stephanie Pearl-McPhee's latest book, "Knitting Rules."

WE ARE CLOSING IN ON THE END!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-07-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

As many of you are aware, the Final Day for donations and to be eligible for prizes is drawing near. The last day for donations and eligibility for gifts will be on Tuesday, August 1st.

Please make your donations by 11 PM on Tuesday so that names can be drawn and winners posted on Thursday morning.

DAY 25 OF 30

2006-07-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
"Never put off until tomorrow what you can do the day after tomorrow."
Mark Twain

Dear Dale,

At the end of last year, I resolved to finish my UFO’s and typed an email to Judy listing them; I was hoping it would motivate me. She told me she got quite the chuckle reading it. Here’s the list that I remember and none have been completed to date:

Bobby’s Gansey - needs sleeves,
Cindy’s Shawl - the 2 smallest sections on each side,
Joanie’s Summer Top - up to the armhole,
At least 3 single socks - one for Bob, the rest for Joanie,
A Wonderful Wallaby - no longer fits the recipient,
A Peace Fleece "Everyday Cardigan" - only needs the wooden buttons,
Rowan Cardigan - up to the buttonband,
Afghan - for Bob.

I can now add the following works in progress:

9. Peacock Feathers Shawl,

10. A pair of Wendy’s Feather & Fan socks.

I may have taught Jackie how to knit and spin, but I didn’t pass along my bad habit of not finishing what I start! She only has 2 projects.....maybe 3.....on the needles at most!

Why do I lose interest in a project? Is it the yarn? the color? Boredom? Do I associate the knitting with a particularly distressing event? I think the reason is much simpler than that - I see something I want to knit and just have to start it! I think this makes me a process knitter?

Although it may appear I don’t finish anything, I did knit Joanie a pair of Estonian mittens…

and her honeymoon shawl, and honeymoon socks for both her and Gregg. Gregg doesn’t care for loud, colorful socks (I’m determined to change that) so the first pair I made for him was gray. "They are the most comfortable socks I have ever worn.".....the second pair was knit in Opal "Tiger" yarn.

Joanie informed me they are a little too bold for him.....Do you think I would be pushing my luck if I went with something like Socks that Rock "Lagoon?" You know me and green.....

I’ll be knitting "Lemongrass" for Joanie for her birthday in September. It’s her favorite color!

Other future projects? Three lace shawls for friends for Christmas, a Philosopher’s Wool sweater for Bobby for next year, of course this is after I finish Bobby’s sweater for this year, and socks, socks, socks and lots of spinning!

I always smile when I think of your comment and my knitting of socks…"You’re like the shoemaker with no shoes." And you’re right.....I still don’t own a pair of my own hand knit socks. I don’t see that changing anytime soon but I‘ll keep trying!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 25 Offering

Today’s offering is 2 skeins of Heritage Yarn rayon Boucle yarn (250 yards/skein) in the "Spring at Rocky Springs" colorway.

DAY 24 OF 30

2006-07-24T17:42:00.000-07:00

______________________________________________________________ "Computers make it easier to do a lot of things, but most of the things they make it easier to do don't need to be done."
Andy Rooney

Dear Dale,

Yarn Harlot recently posed a question to the readers of her blog: What knitters, alive or dead, would you invite to your house for dinner.....

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm...................so many to choose from......

My picks would be:

1. Alice Starmore..........maybe after a delicious dinner and a few glasses of wine, I could convince her that her earlier works need to be republished,

2. Beth Brown-Reinsel..........do you think it would be bad to have a working dinner? Or, maybe a relaxed mini-workshop during coffee and cake?

3. Wendy Johnson..........because I just want to watch her knit.....and steek.....and just visit.

By the time I went online in 1996, I had long abandoned knitting and was cross
stitching. Samplers by Eileen Bennett and the artwork of P. Buckley Moss were my
favorites.

It just never seemed cold enough here to wear sweaters! I would knit one
sweater/year that I would never wear. The internet changed all that and I am
forever grateful. I had honestly never thought of knitting socks.....or shawls for that matter. If it weren‘t for the internet, I wouldn’t be spinning either!

I was also introduced to knitting blogs and have "met" some wonderful people.

Here are a few of my favorite blogs and bloggers:

Wendy Knits.....because she is such a prolific and amazing knitter and I can’t knit in a year what she knits in one month… Her book, "Wendy Knits" is pretty terrific too. When Wendy learned about Chip ‘n for Dale, she immediately took action and it is greatly appreciated. http://wendyknits.net/,

Claudia’s Blog.....Claudia is an extremely talented knitter and spinner. She has
always taken the time to answer my email questions. She was kind enough to help
out a fellow knitter and posted a link on her blog to Chip ‘n for Dale which also makes her a pretty wonderful person too! http://www.claudiasblog.net/.

The Knitting Curmudgeon….because she has a way with words.
http://www.knittingcurmudgeon.com/

Yarn Harlot.....because she makes me laugh, http://www.yarnharlot.ca/blog/,

I do read Jackie’s, "Love-of-Fiber," http://love-of-fiber.blogspot.com/... and Jody’s....."Fiber Fanatics R Us," http://fiber-fanatics.blogspot.com/. It's also wonderful being able to follow Stacie's new life in Tennessee through her blog, http://faerycrafty.blogdrive.com/

Since we’re talking favorites.....

My favorite Blocking Tool?

I love my Wooly Board!

And I love my Wondermats!

When I requested some for Christmas last year, I didn’t tell Bob exactly how much to order. You will be happy to know that I have enough Wondermats to carpet a 40 X 40 room.....so.....if I ever have 20 knitting projects that need to be blocked, I’ll be good to go!

Whenever I think of knitting needles, I think of Cindy’s ebony needles. When she knits with them, they make the most wonderful clicking sound! Apparently that is a Cindy-skill because mine don’t click at all!

Isn't this a great picture of Cindy and her daughter Christi on their recent excursion to New York?

Love,

Jackie and Janette

P.S. You’ll be pleased to know that Juli has finished her first project! She’s a little camera shy but doesn’t it look great??!!! I understand Juli has already picked out her next project. I’ll keep you posted!

Day 24 Offering

Two members of the Orlando Area Knitters and Spinners donated today’s very special offerings.
Cindi has fashioned a beautiful beaded chatelaine and included this brief description:

CHATELAINE (Fr. the feminine form of chatelaine, a keeper of a castle), the mistress of a castle. From the custom of a chatelaine, to carry the keys of the castle suspended from her girdle, the word is now applied to the collection of short chains, often worn by ladies, to which are attached various small articles of domestic and toilet use, as keys, penknife, needlecase, scissors, etc.

Michelle has donated 2 lightweight project bags in matching butterfly patterns. If you don't already know, butterflies are special to Dale.

Anyone who has ONE project probably has TWO or more. Travel with your lighter weight project over your shoulder and use the convenient outer zipper compartment for your keys, cell phone and such. Heavier projects can be made travel ready with the other tote. It also features collapsible wheels! Here they are, ready for knitting, crocheting, needlework, or even an overnight trip somewhere--near a yarn store we hope!

DAY 23 OF 30

2006-07-23T18:23:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.“
George Santayana
Philosopher, poet.

Dear Dale,

One morning, I got an email from Helen asking if I thought she would like weaving. I laughed out loud.

I bought my Harrisville 4-heddle loom back in 1984 and it has decorated my dining room ever since.

I bought the loom and a Superba Knitting machine at a shop on Edgewater Drive that closed shortly thereafter. Armed with a book and some carpet warp, I discovered 2 things: I loved warping but not weaving; and I love knitting..... by hand.

When Kromski came out with the Harp, a rigid heddle loom that looked really, really nice, I ordered it and ~15 cones of cotton yarn...I watched the video on setting it up...a lot easier than the Harrisville...

...I warped it for 6 dish towels. And...surprise, surprise........I discovered......I really wasn't crazy about weaving.

Joanie suggested I sell the looms....but...I figure...maybe in a decade or 2, when the urge to weave strikes again....

I won’t need to buy a loom…I can warp either one....and without spending a dime...discover that weaving is not for me.

Ooooh! Have you seen http://handspunhandwoven.blogspot.com? What do you think?

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 23 Offering

Michelle, a member of the Orlando Area Knitters and Spinners is a very talented knitter, spinner and quilter. She has graciously donated a beautiful stole. Thank you so much!!

This waterfall stitch stole is made of La Fiesta rayon boucle in shades of milk chocolate, caramel, and gold. The boucle was knit with one strand of semi-sweet chocolate Misty Alpaca. The result is a warm, yet lightweight, "drapey" stole in a luxurious length, adding drama and sweep to your outfit.

OUR PRAYERS ARE WORKING

2006-07-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
Chris, Dale's husband, posted this incredibly good news on Dale's Journal. If you would like to read more about Dale, you can visit Dale's blog at http://www.jarrett.ws/dale

Sunday, 7/23/06 White counts are UP!!!!
Sun Jul 23, 09:00 AM by Dale

Tis a beautiful Sunday morning and praise the Lord, Dale’s white count is on the rise! The graft has taken and her new bone marrow is starting to work and her white count rose today from 0.1 to 0.2.

Doesn’t sound like much, but believe me, it is HUGE. Praise the Lord. More to follow. It’s a good day!

Chris

Day 22 OF 30

2006-07-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
“Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.“
John Lennon

Dear Dale,

A year and a half ago if someone had asked me, “Do you like fiber?” I would have wondered why on earth anyone was interested in my dietary habits!

It all started one night in February, 2004. My good friend, Linda, asked me to join her and a male friend visiting from New Hampshire for a drink at City Walk/Universal. After much deliberation, and trying to think of a good excuse, I decided to go. After a nice dinner and listening to Doug talk all night about fiber and some kind of wheel he used for spinning, I knew that he was not for me. And why on earth would he ever spin his own yarn?

Doug and I exchanged emails for a few months and we decided to get together in New Hampshire. He had all this stuff laying around that he called fleece and roving. And there were 3 looms and 3 spinning wheels. For the life of me, I couldn't understand why someone would own these things! As time went on, I started to have feelings for Doug and what better way to go than to show interest in this fiber-thing.

I signed up for a crocheting class at Joanne Fabrics. I actually did make an afghan (if that's what you want to call it).

Then, I made a queen size afghan for Doug's bed. It turned out a little better.

Doug was always telling me about how his friends knit these beautiful garments, so my first thought was to google knitting groups in Orlando. I found a site for OAKS (Orlando Area Knitters and Spinners). I wrote an e-mail to a woman named Janette and she answered promptly. She invited me to come to the next Saturday morning meeting at Barnes and Noble.

Thanks to Janette, I started my first knitting project - a pair of socks.

With much patience from Janette and many hours of her showing me over and over again what to do and correcting my mistakes, I now have knit many projects…

...and if that wasn't enough, teaching me how to knit…she also taught me how to spin!

I am the proud owner of a Lendrum Spinning Wheel and a Majacraft Suzie. I dearly love them both! I have finished many projects and have more in the works.

As I look over this last year and a half, Linda brought Doug into my life and Doug brought Janette into my life.

So, thank you Linda for introducing me to Doug. Thank you Doug for enabling me to have interest in all things "fiber” and thank you for Janette for teaching me everything I know and for your patience in teaching me. And most of all for being the friend you are!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 22 Offering

Today’s offering is 4.4 ounces of Heritage Yarns tussah silk roving in the “Majesty“ colorway - red, purple and blue - just absolutely gorgeous!

The Orlando Knit Wits and Borders have also donated, “Knitting Yarns and Spinning Tales , A Knitter’s Stash of Wit and Wisdom. " Thank you so very much!

Day 21 OF 30

2006-07-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

__________________________________________________________________
"Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless."
Mother Teresa

Dear Dale,

In keeping with a Sunday tradition, here are some welcome words by well-wishers:

"My heart goes out to Dale, and I think she must be a great person, to have so many people doing so much for her. Keep it up!"…..Denise

"I spent 22 years of my adult life in the Tampa area, and even knew a Dale Jarrett once (not your Dale of course.) I'm happy to help out with a small donation, and hopefully a lot of other knitters will, too." …Sandra

"My thoughts and prayers are with Dale, her family, and her friends."….Debbie

"Sending all my best thoughts your way!"….Cathy in MN

"I live in Sioux Lookout, ON, Canada and I would love to be able to donate to your cause.
I am willing to dye some Briggs and Little Durasport sock yarn (I haven't dyed the yarn yet but I was thinking a white and pink colourway) and include some handmade hardwood DPN's as a prize for your draw as well as a ) money order."….Dorothy

"Your friend is in my thoughts. Giving and loving is so important....but so quickly lost in this world."….Sarah Jayne

"I can honestly tell you that Dale is one of the nicest women I have ever met in my life. She is kind, considerate, and an incredible Wife and Mother." …Stacey (Faery Crafty)

"It's the least I can do. I only hope that if I ever find myself in similar circumstances that I'd have such a wonderful group of friends as Dale has."…Wendy (Wendy Knits!)

"If you guys are game for a fundraiser for a good cause offering great prizes, check out this effort to help out a fellow knitter undergoing a bone marrow transplant."…Claudia (Claudia’s Blog)

A special thanks to the following bloggers for posting Chip’n for Dale………….

Wendy (Wendy Knits) (http://wendyknits.net)
Claudia ( Claudia’s Blogs)http://www.claudiasblog.net/
Dorothy (http://www.ddrbroderick.blogspot.com/)
Marce (http://livingmywhy.blogspot.com)
And a special thanks to our Jody ( http://fiber-fanatics.blogspot.com/) and
Our Stacey (http://faerycrafty.blogdrive.com)

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 21 Offering

Today's offering is a beautiful handmade pottery piece, crafted and generously donated by Linda Schwartz.

We are also offering one of Juli and Lauren‘s beautiful Think Pink! watches. Their efforts are truly appreciated.

Day 20 OF 30

2006-07-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

“The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love…”
Hubert H. Humphrey

Soigne-toi bien!

Jobbulast!

Guarisci presto!
Beterschap!

GET WELL SOON !
Get Well Soon!

Brzy se uzdrav!
From All Your Friends and Family

Day 20 Offering

There’s nothing like knitting to soothe the soul. Today’s offerings are “Quick Knits to Wear,” a wonderful compilation of easy to knit sweaters, shawls, and hats. “Knitting Year-Round” features sweaters and knits for all seasons.

Day 19 OF 30

2006-07-19T18:35:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him find it within himself."
Galileo Galilei

Dear Dale,

Janice and I met over an eggplant sandwich in the 6th grade. (Notice how I neglected to tell you how long ago THAT was!) Through middle school, high school, college, marriage, motherhood, family blessings and tragedies, we have only been separated by miles.

Janice and I at 13 years old.

"We were even better than Betsy and Tacy, weren't we ???"
If you are unfamiliar with the Betsy and Tacy books by Maud Hart Lovelace, they are back in print!

There wasn’t a dry eye on 77th Street the day Janice moved to Boston and I moved to Florida (1976)
I love this picture - just had to share!

Our weddings!

Janice & Joe will celebrate 31 years of marriage in November!

Our Newborns !

Bobby and Matthew

Janice's Beautiful Family!

Here we are in 1987, the last time Janice visited Florida. Hard to believe...

Through the years, I have tried to convince Janice to learn how to knit...but I was never successful...until now!

Janice and her daughter, Juli, have been reading Chip ‘n for Dale and your journal on a daily basis and I am thrilled to report that they are both now knitting and loving it! They have a wonderful local yarn shop, Yarn Haven. The knitters at the shop, who seem to knit all day every day, made them feel very welcome. How nice is that?

Janice, Juli and Henri!

Girls after my own heart, they have already begun a second project without finishing the first! But, they are both doing fabulously.

Janice is working on a poncho in Noro, Big Kureyon.....
Juli is working on a scarf in Blue Heron Yarns, Sunrise, a bulky rayon chenille.
Juli picked the colors of both yarns and definitely has a flare for color. Needless to say, I am tickled pink!

Janice commented, "How wonderful after FOREVER we can also add a shared love (and I do mean love) of knitting to the things we talk about."

Can spinning be far behind?????

I’m working on it ; )

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 19 Offering

Today’s offering is Susan’s Spinning Bunny, 50% merino/50% Tencel sock yarn in Denim and size 2 1/2 double pointed needles. Hopefully, the recipient will be accomplishing a first pair of socks with this marvelous yarn!

Day 18 OF 30

2006-07-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
“Do you know why books such as this are so important? Because they have quality. And what does the word quality mean? To me it means texture. This book has pores“.
Fahrenheit 451
by Ray Bradbury

Dear Dale,

Here is my Monday morning rant even though it’s Thursday….

For years, I've belonged to a yahoo group whose mission is to share knitting techniques for creating Fair Isle, Aran and Guernsey designs. You know my aversion to posting on lists….but...this thread almost made me comment. Fear of being banned from “The List” prevented me from doing so.

Recently, a knitter posted about her frustration at being unable to obtain Alice Starmore books except on Ebay at outrageous prices. A long discussion ensued about supply and demand.

$81.00 with 2 days, 13 hours left to bid
$112.50 with 2 days, 13 hours left to bid

A knitter replied that while she owns every book ever published by Alice Starmore, there were plenty of books out there featuring fantastic Japanese Fair Isle designers and that she should just ”get over it.” She could check Starmore books out of the library, yada yada yada.

Saying, “just get over it, there are other great designers out there” bothered me and I couldn’t help but think of “Fahrenheit 451.“ Alice Starmore books aren’t being burned, the majority are out of print, but, if classic designers are so easily replaced by new and upcoming designers, is it such a leap to deduce that if the works of Poe, du Maurier or Doyle weren’t available, “just get over it” and read Sue Grafton, Harlan Coben or Lillian Jackson Braun instead? What would the knitting world do if Elizabeth Zimmerman’s books were out of print? I guess we would just have to “get over it.”

Is it me? Probably

Knitters collect knitting books for a variety of reasons…. I have an entire library of knitting books and 24 years of “Vogue Knitting," the majority of which I have never knit a pattern from. But, I often flip through the pages….look at the pictures….and I cherish them as a source of inspiration.

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 18 Offering

The Orlando Knit Wits and Borders joined together and have donated this fantastic book. Thank you so much for your generosity!

3 skeins of Alice Starmore Hebridean 2-ply yarn, in the Mara colorway, were generously donated by Cydney, a newcomer to OAKS. (Orlando Area Knitters and Spinners). Thank you so much!

Day 17 of 30

2006-07-17T17:38:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
" There's a tree that grows in Brooklyn. Some people call it the Tree of Heaven.
No matter where its seed falls, it makes a tree which struggles to reach the sky."
Betty Smith

Dear Dale,

It may have taken a petite madeleine to transport Proust back to his childhood….but it took a walk down the Publix aisle and a bottle of Fox’s “U-Bet” Chocolate Syrup to transport me back to Brooklyn and bring a smile to my face.

For those of you who have never enjoyed an egg cream, the ingredients are simple enough: milk, seltzer and “U-Bet” Chocolate Syrup. Very much like Italian Bread, the secret ingredient in “U-Bet” is said to be the Brooklyn water. ; )

I loved growing up in Brooklyn…What do I miss the most? Childhood friends, the food, family….the sense of community….and the excellent transportation system. (As many of you know, I learned to drive when I moved to Orlando. My 9 year old Subaru has 29,000 miles if this gives you any indication how much I enjoy driving.) Back to Brooklyn - I miss real pizza…blue crabs…. feasts…..theatres with aisles….lightening bugs… ….a winter sky….seasons….and especially sidewalks.

This is the house I grew up in in Dyker Heights/Bay Ridge. Hard to imagine it was all of 1,092 sq. ft.

I’ve now lived in Florida longer than I lived in Brooklyn…. and have had a wonderful life here….but the memories of my childhood and Brooklyn will always make me smile. Brooklyn’s secret ingredient? I can assure you, it isn’t just the water.

Day 17 Offering

In lieu of sending you a bottle of “U-Bet” Chocolate Syrup, although we just might, today’s offering was generously donated by Mary of The Knitting Zone, (http://www.knittingzone.com/). Her customer service can’t be beat!

This handknit sweater is sure to keep you warm on cold winter nights. It measures approximately 36”.

Today’s fiber offering is 1 lb. of Ashland Bay Merino in one of the newer colors, “Foxglove.”

Janette spindle spun the samples sent by Susan’s Spinning Bunny and knit this little sampler. The colors are: Daffodil, Primrose, Foxglove, Cassis, and Thistle.

Day 16 of 30

2006-07-16T17:53:00.000-07:00

__________________________________________________________________
“Recipe - a set of instructions for making something from various ingredients.”
Merriam-Webster

Dear Dale,

Through the years, we have exchanged many, many recipes but I don’t think I have ever given you my variation of Moe’s Chicken Quesadillas. Bobby loves them and says they’re better than Moe’s!

Ingredients
Chicken Cutlets … 1 per person plus 1 extra
Lemons … 3
A Little Oil - 1/4 cup
Oregano … 4 shakes
Salt & Pepper
Package of Large or Small Diameter Tortillas - whichever you like
Large pkg Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Oil for the Tortillas

Ingredients
Guacamole … Put everything in a blender. Blend. Chill.
2 ripe Avocados
1-2 tbsp Mayo
1-2 tbsp Salsa
1 can chopped Chilies
Juice of 1 Lemon

Place washed/patted dry chicken cutlets in a Ziploc bag with the juice of 2 lemons, a little salt and pepper, a little oil and some oregano. For best results, marinate 2-4 hours.

Bake in a 350 oven for 50-60 minutes.

Dice up the chicken.

Heat a frying pan and oil one side of the tortilla. Place oiled side down in the frying pan. Put cheese on the entire tortilla but diced chicken only on half. When the cheese has melted and the underside is lightly browned, fold it on top of the chicken.

Serve with guacamole.

Here is my recipe for a good knitting group:

- A free morning, afternoon or evening,
- A comfortable place to gather, like Barnes and Noble,
- Refreshments,
- Good conversation,
- Laughter,
- People willing to share their knowledge,
- People willing to learn,
- Sticks and string.

Mix well and Enjoy!

Day 16 Offering

New projects and ideas are shared at every knitting meeting which often serves as inspiration to other members. If you have never knit with beads, today’s offering will give you the opportunity to do so. Rhonda has lovingly donated a beaded amulet kit. The kit provided will be "basic black" to appeal to more knitters.

Day 15 Of 30

2006-07-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
"My husband and I are either going to buy a dog or have a child. We can't decide
whether to ruin our carpets or ruin our lives."
Rita Rudner

Dear Dale,

Joanie and Gregg are the proud owners of an 8-month old Jack Russell Terror, I mean, Terrier.

I think this picture gives you a better indication of her personality.

I had the pleasure of babysitting this past weekend, while the newlyweds went on a much needed mini-vacation. (They got back from their honeymoon on May 13th. I think Bob and I need a vacation just a little bit more than they do!)

Anyway, they dropped Dori off on Thursday and I was truly dreading it. As the owner of 3 dogs, a cat, an immortal bird and fish…the thought of one more 4-legged friend just didn’t thrill me. (We neglected to take our children’s ages in to account when we kept adding more animals to the household. It never dawned on me that one day I would have an empty nest or that I would be cooking for them instead of a family!)

Back to Dori....Dori has a very heavy bark. Did I say she was hyper? Crazy? Eats Tupperware? Pees when you pet her?????

Never a harsh disciplinarian with either my children or my pets, I had a talk with Dori....and I whispered. Whenever I wanted my children to pay attention, I would whisper. They had to stop whatever they were doing so they could hear what I was saying. Apparently, this works with dogs as well. In order to hear me, Dori would stop moving, lay her head on my leg and look adoringly up at me. I rewarded her good behavior with plenty of tickles and praises. I received plenty of big, heavy kisses and a little pee in exchange.

We both survived the weekend, and while I told Joanie and Gregg that Dori was excellent, I tempered, "Feel free to bring her anytime," with "just not anytime soon."

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 15 Offering

Since dogs are known as a man’s best friend, knitting tools and accessories are a knitter’s best friend. Inside this cookie jar are indispensable knitting accessories for the avid knitter.

Day 14 OF 30

2006-07-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
“How far that little candle throws his beams! So shines a good deed in a weary world.”
William Shakespeare

Dear Dale,

We thought you might enjoy reading who some of the generous donors are and more of their heartfelt good wishes.

"Hello! My name is Amy and I'm a knitter from Clearwater, FL."

"Dale is my mother in-law. I married her step-daughter Jennifer."

"My prayers are with her."… Claudia

"I wish Dale all the best as she received her transplant and will add her to my thoughts."…Trish

"I heard of "Chip 'n for Dale" through her daughter, Jessica."....Steve

"I came across Dale's site somehow and was touched by the kindness of her friends and family. I wish I could give more."..Lynn

"My thoughts and prayers are with Dale and know every wish, prayer. I heard about the fund raiser from Ellen."(Ellen is one of our new knitters and spinners)…Peggy

"I hope that the bone marrow transplant goes well for Dale and that she makes a full recovery. There was a message posted on the "Not Your Mother's Knitting Group."...Joanne

"Go, Dale! I'll be thinking good thoughts for you & following your progress. (I found your blog through Claudia's Blog.) A friend of mine was a marrow donor recently, for his sister, so I know a little of what you are going through. God bless you and your donor."... Elisa

"What a heartfelt and touching post today. Thank you for compiling and sharing it. Thinking and praying for Dale and her family, and for you, too, for this effort of love."…Cary

Day 14 Offering

Today's "magical" offering is a Walt Disney World lithograph and lighted picture frame. It is sure to delight the very young or the young at heart, as well as add pixie dust in to your home.

Day 13 of 30

2006-07-15T03:18:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
"In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, for in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed."
Kahlil Gibran

Dear Dale,

We have decided to bring Saturday knitting to you!

This past weekend, a group of lovely ladies who normally knit once a month at a church on Hemple Road, came to Barnes & Noble instead. They were surprised and thrilled to see other knitters. They too were beginning to think they were the only knitters in Orlando! We re-arranged the front of Cafe and had a wonderful visit! We are sure they will come again - at least we hope so!

The calm before the storm of knitters who converged on Café..

Our mascot, Orbit!

Here’s Judy modeling her newly completed Dishcloth top. She’s knitting another in a Granny Smith Apple green, which will look lovely on her!

Ellen just started a Monday night knitting group in the Oviedo area, "A Loosely Knit Group." Don’t you just love the name!!!! This weekend, Ellen will be attending a Family Reunion.

Cindi is a fairly new knitter but she already has more than one project on the needles. She’s working on 2 beautiful purple scarves - one in a drop stitch pattern and the other in garter stitch but it shows the ribbon yarn off beautifully. I am not sure, but, I’m thinking she comes from Minnesota or North Dakota. I love her accent, don’t you know!

Neila, (excuse the spelling) the woman on the right, brought a picture of the most magnificent 72“ round lace tablecloth that she completed. If I remember correctly, she said it took her 3 months to knit! It truly was magnificent!!!

Marcie, the young lady on the left, is visiting her sister in Orlando. She shared with us the Fair Isle booga bag she is knitting and only has the strap left to complete it. Let’s hope she visits her sister frequently; she’s a sweetheart! Bing and her husband also joined us and we hope they come again too!

Mary just completed the shawl she is wearing and has started another.

We apologize for the not so hot picture of Cydney. She is working on a lacey Rowan sweater. She is definitely planning on joining us again this week!

Jody, the Goodwill Ambassador of Knitting in the Greater Orlando Area, gave the ladies her business card with links to her site as well as all the other knitting groups in the area.

I am not sure if this is Liz or Sylvia….I was sitting far away! But, she came with her mother who was visiting. She seemed to enjoy the group as well.

Although we didn‘t take a headcount, there had to be 15 or 16 knitters there and it looked like a great time was had by all.

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 13 Offering

New friendships were made today and since scrapbooking preserves memories of family and good friends...today's offering is a Creative Memories scrapbook album generously donated by Joyce Larson.

Day 12 of 30

2006-07-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.“
Ecclesiastes 4: 9,10

Dear Dale,

As you probably can tell, Janette and I have been quite busy working on Chip’n for Dale and having a great time for a great cause. We are constantly on the phone with each other and if not on the phone, im’ing or emailing each other. At any given moment in time, one of us is checking Paypal to update the total. We have decided that Janette will do most of the entry writing and I will handle the phone calls, donation emails and the handling of the offerings. (Janette has told me quite a number of times that I have the gift of gab; I’m taking that as a compliment.) Honestly though, I think Janette was also blessed with the same gift because have you ever tried to reach her on the phone???? Even with call waiting, I frequently get a busy signal!

The most rewarding part of the blog has been corresponding with those who have donated. Witnessing the compassion and genuine outpouring of care from total strangers has been just wonderful.

Hmm... I just realized. Janette hasn’t emailed me or called me in the last few minutes, so don’t tell her - I am going to get some knitting in. Hmm...I bet she is thinking the same thing! I can see her now - Missy Sof on her lap, Heidi sitting on the chair behind her, knitting needles in hand, saying, "Ooh! Here’s my chance to knit. Jackie must be taking a nap!"

I do believe though that some members of OAKS are starting to get concerned. We finish each other’s sentences...are knitting the same projects...I can predict when her phone rings who is calling her...scary. Also, Janette didn’t think I was nuts when I suggested writing to Julia Roberts and by the same token the fact that she wrote to Procter & Gamble didn’t surprise me either. We apparently are of the same ilk; we’ll do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 12 Offering

We recently discovered that Melody, a member of OAKS, is an extremely talented basket weaver. Isn’t this just gorgeous!!!???

We are also offering one of Juli and Lauren‘s Think Pink! watches. Their dedication and creativity is inspiring.

Day 11 of 30

2006-07-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

____________________________________________________________________
“Women can spin very well, but they cannot write a good book of cookery.”
Dr Samuel Johnson
The Life of Samuel Johnson (1791)

Dear Dale,

Tuesday evenings have been all about spinning! Jackie is finishing up her "Blueberry Patch" on her Lendrum and spinning one of Susan's new colors, Clematis, on her Suzie. The picture on Susan‘s website doesn’t do it justice. It is a combination of lavender and greens, just a beautiful combination.

I’m working on some Ashland Bay merino/tencel in honey that is pure pleasure to spin. Neither of us are quick spinners probably because we do a whole lot of talking while we’re not doing a whole lot of spinning! But it definitely is a fun way to spend an evening!

It is hard to believe that four years ago I didn’t know a knitter or spinner existed in the Orlando area! I am so glad Joanie picked up her pant leg that day and showed you the socks I knit her! We now have a closely knit group (sorry) of knitters and spinners who choose to spend every Saturday morning together sharing our lives, our laughter and knowledge. As Joanie all too frequently says, "Good Times!"
The group has been steadily growing which is nice too. I don’t know if you’ve met Helen or Cindi yet, but they are great additions to our group. Both exhibit the necessary character traits to belong to OAKS; they enjoy being enabled and love to challenge themselves. Helen has already succumbed to the whirr of the spinning wheel and is a natural. In one hour, she was spinning like she’d been doing it forever! Helen quickly discerned, “When it is going well and you're "in the zone" it is a thing of beauty and marvel! Now, if I can just make those times a little longer I'll have it!”

Michelle is also spinning fiber from Susan’s Spinning Bunny. Her color is Tamarac, a combination of greens, yellows and a touch of teal blue. I definitely see some new fiber in my future. I absolutely love all of Susan’s new colors!

Of course we have lost track of a few members as well. I can’t help but wonder if Ilona got married and moved to West Palm Beach or where Sue and her husband finally settled. It’s nice just knowing OAKS helped them adjust to life in Florida, if only for a brief period.

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 11 Offering

A few summers ago, we had the pleasure of meeting and knitting with Claudia, the proprietor of the "Heal My Hands" product line. Sadly for us, she moved back to New York but members of OAKS have kept in touch with her through her personal blog and her business http://www.healmyhands.com/.

Claudia was anxious to help Dale and has donated a "Heal My Hands" gift pack that any knitter or spinner would love. They smell fabulous and really work! Thank you so much!!!

EARN EXTRA INCENTIVES NOW !!!!!

2006-07-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

We would like to take this opportunity to thank those who have already made their generous donations to Chip’n for Dale. Unfortunately, we were hoping to do more for Dale. In order to do so, we need to reach more people. If you would kindly contact two friends, for every friend who makes a $5 donation, your name will be entered an additional time in the drawing. Of course your friend’s name will also be entered.

All they have to do is send an email to chipnfordale@yahoo.com and the necessary information will be noted. We thank you in advance for your understanding and compassion.

Jackie and Janette

DAY 10 OF 30

2006-07-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

"I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book."
Groucho Marx

Dear Dale,

I don’t know if you have had a chance to check out some of the latest knitting books but I’d like to share a Cliffs Notes-type review of Norah Gaughan’s Knitting Nature.

Summary: The author incorporates shapes found in nature in to knitting designs.

Chapter 1: Hexagons - Number of designs included in this chapter broken down by style:
Classic Designs - 2
Trendy Designs -2
Funky Designs - 2

Chapter 2: Pentagons
Classic Designs - 3
Trendy Designs-3
Funky Designs -0

Chapter 3: Spirals
Classic Designs 1
Trendy Designs-4
Funky Designs - 1
(Quite a few designs in this chapter would appeal to Joanie and they look fun to knit!)

Chapter 4: Phylloyaxis
Classic Designs - 3
Trendy Designs-1
Funky Designs -1

Chapter 5: Fractals
Classic Designs -1
Trendy Designs -4
Funky Designs -1

Chapter 6: Waves
Classic Designs - 3
Trendy Designs- 2
Funky Designs - 1

Layout and Photography - Beautifully done.

Knitting Instructions - Clearly written and concise.

Overall Impression- Some stunning designs that are worth knitting, trendy designs that will appeal to many and a few funky ones I would never knit but are interesting. Definitely more than just pure eye-candy!

Day 10 Offering:

Today’s offering, succinctly put:

Our Friend Dale

2006-07-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

DAY 9 OF 30

2006-07-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

"I get by with a little help from my friends."
John Lennon

Dear Dale,

Jackie and I compiled "100 Things About Dale," so that readers of the blog might get to know you a little better :)

Dale is gracious,
a loving wife,
a fantastic mother.
She loves cats,
and has a sweet tooth.
She is a prolific and talented knitter,
and enjoys gardening.
She loves to cook,
good food,
and experimenting with new recipes.
She is giving and generous,
with her time, knowledge and knitting gifts.
She has a wonderful quiet sense of humor,
and enjoys going to the movies,
and good books.
She is open minded,
has strong faith,
and enjoys meeting new people.
She likes soy milk,
is extremely organized,
and will go out of her way to help others.
Dale’s favorite color is pink,
and she has a knack for picking beautiful yarn to knit with.
She enjoys entertaining,
and playing cards.
She has a wonderful support group of family and friends,
who love, adore and admire her.
She loves listening to music,
especially Josh Groban,
and The Three Tenors.
Dale is never critical of others.
She likes to shop and frequently finds great bargains,
and she starts Christmas shopping very early.
Dale is courageous,
her birthday is June 8,
and she enjoys traveling.
Dale is kind,
thoughtful,
and punctual.
Dale gets up very early in the morning,
and accomplishes a lot in a day.
She is not lazy,
not boisterous,
or mean-spirited.
She doesn’t smoke,
or do anything in excess.
She once wrote and published a newsletter on organization.
She is independent,
and an excellent writer.
She is tech-savvy,
with innate wisdom.
She doesn't mind hot weather,
but enjoys cooler temperatures too.
Dale loves fresh flowers,
can be a perfectionist,
and can plan a dinner for 20 without blinking an eye.
She enjoys Chinese food,
and has been married for 25 years.
She has a wonderful, dear friend Connie she has known forever,
whose daughter is an actress on All My Children.
She keeps an immaculate home,
and knows how to prepare for a hurricane.
She avoids arguments,
but is stalwart in her convictions.
She is gentle,
hardworking,
and has very intelligent children.
Dale was born and raised in Tampa and has lived in Georgia.
She visits Georgia frequently because her mother still lives there.
She faces adversity with optimism, faith and strength in character.
She is intelligent,
humble,
honest,
and clever.
Dale loves making lists,
because she likes crossing items off.
She is an EBay merchant who sells handknit Firefly hats,
and knits them beautifully.
Dale is creative and imaginative,
smart,
reserved and classy.
Dale is a loyal friend,
easy going,
perseverant, in a good way,
and calm as well as calming.
Dale is a problem-solver,who gets things done.
Dale loves to knit socks,
but not just plain socks, fancy ones too.
She prefers classic styles to trendy ones,
but it doesn’t stop her from knitting a poncho for her daughter, Jessica.
Dale loves butterflies,
and raises Monarch butterflies in her garden.
She buys them milkweed.
Dale loves crawfish which she could eat every day!
Dale loves to read novels with a knitting theme,
and she loves quilted knitting bags and knitting shawls.
Dale is a special person,
who has many, many friends,
and is embarrassed reading all these wonderful things about herself!

Our thoughts and prayers are with you .

Jackie and Janette

Day 9 Offering

Transplant patients are often encouraged to keep a journal. Since today is Day 0 of 100, today’s offering is a journal, "Knitting, A Novel, " by Anne Bartlett and Two AMC Movie Tickets.

Day 8 of 30

2006-07-07T19:08:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
“An amazing invention - but who would ever want to use one?“
(made a call from Washington to Pennsylvania with Alexander Graham Bell's telephone, patented on 7 March 1876)
Rutherford B. Hayes

Dear Dale,

Every morning, I talk with my friend Laurie and in 45 minutes, we have solved the world’s problems. Iraq? No problem. Immigration Reform - piece of cake. Doggie nose-prints on French doors - a cinch.

When I discovered the beauty and wonderment of The Magic Eraser, the first person I called was Laurie. I know you’re thinking I have way too much time on my hands but...I opened the box...read the directions...and there was no spot safe from The Sponge. As I erased each spot, I thought, "This is wonderful! " "Let‘s see if it works on this!" but "What about that?" Two hours later, I realized I had happily cleaned all the molding, fingerprints, nose prints and spots on doors and walls in my home. When I told Laurie she just had to buy them and how obsessed she would be with spots and dirt, she was skeptical and may even have thought I was a little nuts. Fast forward 3 months.

This morning the phone rang and Laurie informed me, hysterical laughing, that she had found her box of Magic Erasers in the back of her closet and decided to try them. Three hours later she stopped to cook dinner... but only because she had to!

I guess we are easily entertained; whether it is new knitting needles, a new sock yarn or a new fiber, it’s the little things that make us happy.

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 8 Offering

In keeping with today’s cleanliness theme, today’s offering is a 16.9 oz bottle of Eucalan Wool Wash and a box of Mr. Clean Magic Erasers : )

Day 7 of 30

2006-07-07T18:32:00.000-07:00

____________________________________________________________ "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion."
The Dalai Lama (1935 - )

Dear Dale,

We thought you might enjoy reading a few of the heartfelt good wishes sent in by people who have made donations!

"Thanks for giving us the opportunity to help." : )…. Molly

"Just wanted to help a bit. Hope the treatment works and she gets better soon."....Julie

"I'll bookmark your blog and keep up with your activities. I wish Dale the very best!"…. Mary (The Knitting Zone)

"One makes a life by what they give. I know Dale is a very special person, simply by people like you and other friends of hers. May everyone's positive thoughts, hopes, prayers, and strength flow forward into Dale.".....Sabria

"I hope that the bone marrow transplant goes well for Dale and that she makes a full recovery.".....Joanne

"My thoughts and prayers are with Dale and know every wish, prayer and any/all assistance means a lot and goes a long way."….Peggy

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 7 Offering

To show our appreciation to the special people who have donated thus far, we thought today's offering should also be special. Susan’s Spinning Bunny 50% Merino/50% Tencel has to be seen to be believed. The sheen, the drape, the color - "It's the Berries!"....perfection! A special thank you to Susan for donating this yarn!

Day 6 of 30

2006-07-07T05:47:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, 'What! You
too? I thought I was the only one.”
C.S. Lewis

Dear Dale,

I think I have finally met my match. He is very handsome, smooth, well-polished, just a little on the heavy side, but I can deal with that. When I am with him, he always seems to be at his best. His feel is unbelievable and it is very easy to spend long periods of time with him.
Can you solve the riddle?

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 6 Offering

Don’t you love a good mystery? We assure you that the item inside this box will make a terrific addition to your stash!

Day 5 of 30

2006-07-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
"A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials, heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine, desert us when troubles thicken around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts."
Washington Irving

Dear Dale,

I have so many exciting things to share with you; I am not sure where to begin!!!

A week and a half ago, my son informed me that I will soon be a grandmother! You have no idea how excited I am!! Lisa’s due date is February 14th and we are all just thrilled! What does any knitter do when being given this piece of wonderful news??????? Go to Patternworks and order this of course!

I will be knitting the baby blanket : ) and know that it will be enjoyed by my grandson or granddaughter for many years to come! Of course the hard part will be choosing my name. Shall I be - Granny, Nanny, Nana, Grandma, Meema? Maybe I will let the baby decide! I can’t wait to kiss its little face!

By now you know that I am also a very impulsive shopper. I can’t just order one new color of fiber or sock yarn - I have to buy a lot!!! Where is this going????? Well, I have loved my Lendrum for over a year but one afternoon I came home from work and decided to check out different spinning wheels; just looking you know. Then, I went to EBay..and bid.and won!

My new-to-me Majacraft Suzie will be arriving on July 5th. Janette has assured me that two heads are better than one and we‘ll be able to put it together no problem so long as there is a book with pictures : )

Isn’t she beautiful?????

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 5 Offering

In honor of the impending arrival of Jackie’s new spinning wheel, this day’s offering is one pound of merino/silk purple roving from Bountiful. (http://www.bountifulspinweave.com/) If you knit but don’t spin, you may want to check out guilds or groups in your area. It is fun, relaxing and addictive! We know!!

Day 4 of 30

2006-07-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
"Wisdom doesn't automatically come with old age. Nothing does - except wrinkles. It's true, some wines improve with age. But only if the grapes were good in the first place."
Abigail Van Buren (1918 -1978)

Dear Dale,
My grandmother celebrated her 96th birthday on July 1. I call her maxims Nannyisms and while some don’t translate well from the Sicilian, (no nishidah/nashidah comes to mind) I thought I would share my favorites with you. I hope you find them as cute as I do!

My all-time favorite expression: The first hundred years are the hardest; scary when you’re turning 96.

On childrearing: Can you put your elbow in your mouth? (Go ahead try it.) That’s
how hard it is to raise kids!

Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous: As if anybody cares.

Here is a picture of Nanny the day of Joanie’s wedding. Keep in mind, while we were eating dinner, she turned to me and said, "It’s bad when you get old. My eyes aren’t that good anymore. My skirt is on inside and out." We just laughed. How funny is that?

Happy Birthday Nanny!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 4 Offering
If you ask anyone under the age of 40 what a petticoat is, they may or may not know the answer, however, if you ask any knitter if they have Petticoat, rest assured they will know it is Opal Sock yarn! In case you missed the opportunity to buy Petticoat in its original color, it is our Day 4 Offering.

LET'S ALL SAY A PRAYER

2006-07-05T06:35:00.000-07:00

As many of you are aware, Dale will be starting her chemo today in preparation for her bone marrow transplant. Let's all take a minute out of our day to pray for Dale.

Day 3 of 30

2006-07-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

____________________________________________________________________
"The journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step."
Lao Tzu

We all know this week is going to be particularly difficult for you. While we know you are in excellent hands all the way around, we will continue to pray anyway!!!

The last time we got together, I had just started knitting Fiber Trends' "Estonian Garden Wrap" in my merino/alpaca/silk handspun yarn. I thought you might enjoy seeing its progress to date. I really am pleased with it, stripes and all! Now I'm trying not to worry that the striping will spontaneously stop! In total, I got 835 yards from 7 ounces of fiber which made me very happy as well. I am finally spinning lace weight!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 3 Offering

When Dale announced that she would be going to Houston, Rhonda (OAKS) started brainstorming ways the group could fundraise for Dale. She approached Janette about knitting a shawl which would be raffled. From this simple suggestion, this blog was born; bigger had to be better!

Janette started knitting Dorothy Siemens Creatures of the Reef shawl immediately (http://www.fiddlesticksknitting.com/) and had it finished in record time 2 weeks and 3 days.

To show our appreciation for the generosity of the fiber community, today's offering is the "Creatures of the Reef" shawl, knit in Dale's favorite color, pink.

Day 2 of 30

2006-07-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

___________________________________________________________________
"Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead

Dear Dale,
We hope your admittance to MD Anderson went off without a hitch. We're also hoping it was done earlier than 11:00 p.m. so you could get the rest you need before "it" all begins! We've all been thinking about you and missing you at knitting....When you come home, maybe Rhonda can make you her fabulous apple pie for a belated July 4th celebration! I doubt Barnes and Noble would mind! We have connections after all ; )
We also thought you would find the story behind these beautiful "Think Pink" ribbon watches as heartwarming and uplifting as we do.

The daughters of friends in the Northeast, Lauren and Juli, have been steadily dedicated to making a difference in the quest to find a cure for breast cancer. Both teens have lost close relatives to the disease. In what has become a creative and remarkable way to work through their grief, the girls sell watches which they put together in many different combinations of watch faces and multicolored ribbons, add a breast cancer charm, and wrap them (always in pink!). Since 2004, ALL proceeds have been sent to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research, and this summer their donations have reached the $10,000 mark!

They were very intrigued after hearing about our knitters and spinners fundraising blog and in addition to donating, they have sent along five "Think Pink" watches: one for you, and the rest for prizes They said they have seen time and again how generous people can be, and they believe they should also be generous.
Oh, and one more thing--guess who are looking into taking knitting lessons?!

Love,

Jackie and Janette

Day 2 Offering

It seems everyone in OAKS has socks on the needles; toe-up has become quite popular thanks to "Wendy's Generic Toe Up Sock pattern /www.wendyjohnson.net/blog/sockpattern.htm)
The newest craze among the group is "Socks that Rock" by Blue Moon Fiber Arts. (http://www.bluemoonfiberarts.com/team) For those of you who haven't knit with it, "every stitch is a pleasure." Do you think it is a coincidence that since we told the group about "Socks that Rock," they are a little behind in their orders????
To enable those of you who haven't knit with this yarn, we are offering "Socks that Rock" in the "Highway 30" colorway. Whoever is the lucky recipient of this sock yarn, Enjoy!
In addition, if you are the lucky winner of today's fiber prize, you will also receive one of the "Think Pink" watches! If you are not today lucky winner, but you would like to proudly wear (or gift!) a Think Pink watch, you can buy one by emailing Lauren directly, at DoubleL1234@gmail.com. They are $15 each, and remember, all proceeds are forwarded to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

DAY 1 OF 30

2006-07-03T01:57:00.000-07:00

_____________________________________________________________
"The life of a man consists not in seeing visions and in dreaming dreams, but in active charity and in willing service"
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Dear Dale,

We hope your visit with the nurse went well and that you're all set for tomorrow! Know that our prayers are with you!

We hope that Chris will be able to keep us posted through your blog but also understand if his posts are infrequent.

Love,

Jackie and Janette

FIRST DAY OFFERINGS

For those of you unfamiliar with the gorgeous, magnificent, splendiferous fiber offered by Susan's Spinning Bunny, www.spinningbunny.com/, (do you think we like it?) we thought 6 oz. of merino/alpaca/silk in the "Roses for You" colorway would be an excellent First Day offering. Janette raves, "Not only are the colors gorgeous and the roving super soft, it practically spins itself!"

Just a reminder - For every $ 5 (US) donated, you will be eligible for one chance at terrific prizes.

July 3rd

2006-06-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

PLEASE BE SURE TO CHECK BACK ON JULY 3RD FOR THE LAUNCH OF DALE'S DRIVE!

Meet Dale and Her Husband Chris

2006-06-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

Please meet Dale and her husband of 25 years. Dale was born and raised in Tampa, Florida. They have six children and five grandchildren with another on the way. Dale and Chris are active members of The Presbyterian Church of the Lakes and various other organizations in the Orlando area. Dale retired from the Orange County Public Schools and Chris is a business owner in Orlando. Dale is an active member of OAKS ( Orlando Area Knitters), SOS (Sunshine Orlando Spinners), and The Christian Artisans Group.

Chip-'n-for-Dale

AND NOW IS THE TIME TO SAY GOODBYE

AND THE WINNERS ARE

The Mystery Revealed.....

DAY 30 OF 30

Day 29 OF 30

DAY 28 OF 30

READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Day 27 of 30

Day 26 of 30

WE ARE CLOSING IN ON THE END!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DAY 25 OF 30

DAY 24 OF 30

DAY 23 OF 30

OUR PRAYERS ARE WORKING

Day 22 OF 30

Day 21 OF 30

Day 20 OF 30

Day 19 OF 30

Day 18 OF 30

Day 17 of 30

Day 16 of 30

Day 15 Of 30

Day 14 OF 30

Day 13 of 30

Day 12 of 30

Day 11 of 30

EARN EXTRA INCENTIVES NOW !!!!!

DAY 10 OF 30

Our Friend Dale

DAY 9 OF 30

Day 8 of 30

Day 7 of 30

Day 6 of 30

Day 5 of 30

Day 4 of 30

LET'S ALL SAY A PRAYER

Day 3 of 30

Day 2 of 30

DAY 1 OF 30

**************July 3rd**************

Meet Dale and Her Husband Chris

July 3rd