Two Challenges

There are two contests in Blogland that are very appealing. Each challenges us a little and that's good.

First, Kathy works in a NICU and they are short of blankets for the tiny patients. She's asking all of us knitters and crocheters to make a blanket no bigger than a cookie sheet. It can be any color and any design as long as it's small. It's a great way to use up some of that stash to make room for new yarn purchases. A blanket that small can be made in a weekend.

You can check with her on her blog with any questions you might have and to get the mailing address for your finished blanket.

The second contest and challenge is on Chan's blog. She wants us to think about our blessings.

I have so many.


I'm thankful for Boo and my introduction to Portuguese Water Dogs. If we hadn't adopted that funny looking tiny puppy, I might never have realized the joy of living with this breed and my life
today would be very different.


Monty was the most challenging dog I've ever lived with. Because of the terrible abuse he suffered, I learned to be more patient and accepting. Together we dealt with his fears.


Lucy taught me respect for little dogs and to look at the world through their eyes. It looks very different if you're only eight inches tall.


Morgan has taught me persistence. Despite receiving a death sentence a year ago, she has overcome her physical problems and is up for any challenge. Every day we get to spend with her is a blessing.


Tsar has worked hard to teach me patience. Living with a big dog that acts more like a cat than a dog can be frustrating. I've learned to take a deep breath and give him space and eventually we make progress.


Samba has taught me about loyalty. She'll do whatever I ask of her, though she does grumble about it sometimes.


Fudge is going to be our first titled dog. This is a dream come true for me. Some little girls dream of being Miss America or a champion skater or of having a storybook wedding. I used to watch the Westminster Dog Show and dream of having my own show dog.


Samba and Fudge presented me with another dream come true. This litter of pups was planned with great excitement.


These babies were such a blessing that we couldn't part with them. We kept six of the eight pups and are close with the two that went to other homes.


The greatest blessing I have is Rob. Although he told me when we first met that he hated it when people spoke of their dogs as if they were children and he never wanted to be referred to as our dog's daddy, he now talks about going shopping for toys for the kids. Here he is rocking Lola when she was a pup.

Rob has made it possible for me to stay home and take care of our pack of dogs and to get involved in activities with them. He supports me in my creative endeavors, only complains a little about the stashes of yarn and fabric. He reads my blog and he offers encouragement when I need it.

The new friends I've made since I began blogging are a wonderful and unexpected blessing. They've given me support and encouragement. They've brought me laughter and tears and I'm so pleased that I've had the opportunity to chat with so many of you.

Now, at the beginning of fall, think about your blessings and join Chan's challenge. The prizes are great, too. And don't forget, if it's rainy this weekend where you live, turn on a movie, make a cup of tea and whip up a baby blanket for some tiny newborn in need.