Chickadee

I started a new project the other day, Chickadee by designer Ysolda Teague.  I have admired this on Ravelry for some time and decided too use up some old stash to do a trial run before splurging out on new yarn. I have brought one of ysolda's patterns before and liked her style,  easy to follow.
This is a bit challenging with lots of new things learnt. Found it quite difficult doing stranded work on purl rows my birds not too good , but I can live with it. Also I have been put off for ages doing anything much with short rows, but found this tutorial and  it  is so easy to do, dont know why I was so scared of them.
Had to go up to a size 40 even though I am a 38  but my waist is bigger, tried on before doing waist shaping and it seems spot on. I did do the sleeves one repeat shorter as my arm length is shorter than size I am doing.

I am using up some old Madonna Perendale superwool, have used this before and washes up nice and soft and can see this being well used and warm for the cooler months to come. I will definitely be making another,  I think in nicer wool  and colours, trying to find something in larger hanks or cones as I hate joins.

I have also made a few Milo vests, love this pattern. Made them in Possum Merino wool and did  a little bit of crochet chain for the branch and buttons for eyes love how it turned out.
Been away for a few days with the family to Hanmer Springs, it was so hot there 34 deg that tar was melting on the roads. Then I had 2 nights in Christchurch can you believe it was 11 deg brr!!!
We rented a lovely house that was near a lovely walk and cycle track and found a  stream that the grandkids could plunge in to get cool it was lovely.  The track was great  for Josh as he could ride his bike on the tracks as it was all shade with lots of trees. Hanmer is a lovely place at  any time of the year.
I dont seem to have many pics but Linds friends took some with me and kids so hopefully will get them at some stage.
Well am looking after Joel and Georgia as Josh has hydrotherapy at lunchtime, we are going up the shops and they can help with my shopping!!
Have a lovely week
Janet