Here today gone.....

First let me say Percy did tag along - the pictures will attest to the moocher coming along.

Kansas has not changed much. Humid and tornado dodging was the majority of the trip. I did get to see my relatives briefly. Sorry MAAAAA that it couldn't have been longer but the sirens going off in the background caused my traveling companions to want to get to low ground.

I did go to a marble factory, all the marbles are hand blown. I sway a confectionery, wait till you see the pics of the chocolate. I blew bubbles, ate at one of 2 dinosaur restaurants in the country, had coffee a couple times with Cathy's knitting friends. It was a crazy week.

I am glad to be home but I am off again this weekend with Peggy. We are headed to Fresno to see her mom and friends. Anna is sure keeping me busy with travel.

Percy assures Anna he has no desire to go to Fresno so he will be covering while I am gone this next time. But you are stuck with me for a couple days.

Have you seen the Christmas in July flyer? It is going to be crazy. I feel gypped though. I thought Santa was coming and I was going to get presents. Christmas in July really should be renamed: A CHANCE FOR TYPE A PERSONALITIES TO GET A JUMP START ON GETTING READY FOR CHRISTMAS BY LEARNING NEW KNITTING TECHNIQUES TO AMAZE FRIENDS AND FAMILY. What is that just a little too long? What would you suggest? I would be interested to know.

Have you heard about the raffles and Knitting bingo? Anna is really going all out. The front window looks amazing. Class sign ups are already going on. Make sure you sign up early so you get the best choices. If you sign up for 5 classes you get the 6th free. What a deal. If I know Anna there will be food, fun, unlimited laughter, and some great deals along the way.

Well, need to get unpacked so I can pack again.
Frank.

Memo From Anna

I hope that you are having a wonderful start to your summer. We have been working very hard at getting new yarns out and preparing for Christmas in July.

Let me tell you all about this great event! We are going having an all day all night crafting event.

That's 11 instructors, 18 CLASSES in 1 DAY. Can you believe it?

Sign up starts Sat. June 20...sign up for 5 and the 6th class will be FREE.

The more classes you sign up and take, the better your chance for the raffles...plus you get FREEBIES with EACH class!!! Think raffles, prizes, freebies and Knitting Bingo!

I don't need to mention laughing, eating and knitting cause you know we do that every chance we get!

This is a great opportunity for you to jump start your Christmas projects and have a ton of fun doing it!

The Christmas in July schedule is on the website.

All the projects are on display in the front window and on the flickr to the right.

The rest of July calendar is full of learn to classes. Now would be a great chance for you to try & gain a new skill for those summer vacations and road trips.

I also would like to let you know that we will be closed for Father's Day. We are looking forward to spending the day with family & friends.

The Yarn Shoppe Staff & I would like to thank you for all your continued support and for the opportunity to serve you the best that we can.

We made it!!!

First, ignore that last post. I can assure you Percy IS NOT HERE. There is no way he could have stowed away. I would have known.

I am surprised we made it. The it was not flying weather and someone ( I won't name names) forgot to pack my medicine. Anna is off the hook this time. The flight from Sacramento to Denver was just fine. Nice, smooth as glass. BUT then from Denver to KC was simply a nightmare. I thought for sure we would all DIE!!!! I was to the point of going to the cockpit and asking if there was anyway they could please quit making it so bumpy. But Drew told me it was just the way the air was and to sit down and watch my TV. He held my hoof thru the flight. Unlike Cathy, who couldn't or wouldn't take her hands off the arm rests. I never saw anyone so white. They had the nerve to close the airport with me up in the air. What were they thinking? This poor little sheep thought it was a horrid joke. But on the up side I did get to see St. Louis on the diversion.

Now, have you gotten Anna's email? I heard she sent a flyer about Christmas in July. Are we going to make our lists together? I bet we can brain storm some great things for Santa to bring us. I know you alla want yarn, yarn and more yarn - with maybe a few needles thrown in. Better get it on our list. We can email them to Santa together.

Today is a busy day. Better get my wool fluffed.

Frank

Stowed Away

Hey Dudettes!!!!

Guess what? Frank doesn't know it but I stowed away in a back pack again and then jumped in a suitcase right before it was zipped closed and I like totally stowed away. I am in Kansas TOOO!!!

Let me tell you about our flight.The flight to Denver was totally boring and like nothing exciting happened. But the flight in to Kansas City now there was some excitement. It was storming in KC and they shut the airport with us in the air. We had to circle for 45 minutes. We found out later it was because of the lightening that the airport was closed. Can you believe it? Us in the air and the airport shut? And thr landing!!! It was the best. Bumpy the whole way. Better than any roller coaster (Frank looked a little green around the wool if you want to know the truth)

But hey, I am out of here. I hear there is a meeting of new sorority girls today and I am pusing for them to open member ship up to 'pacas.

See ya
Percy.

it was not jetlag

You may think the reason I didn't post yesterday was because of jetlag. Well you would be WRONG!!!! I am still in shock over what happened in here on Sunday. You heard about the Grab Bag sale. Well those ladies went NUTS!!!!! You would have thought it was a free yarn giveaway.

Everyone bought their bags in a semi orderly fashion. I didn't witness any pushing or shoving but I heard a few tales. Then the strangest thing happened. All the ladies went in to the back of the shop and opened their bags and started swapping yarn. It was crazy. Everyone went away happy and there are about 6 bags left up on the counter. I heard Anna say everyone had such a great time she would do it again. So be on the lookout for the update.

In other news, tonight is Happy Hour - but around here that meand 3 hours so get here early so you get a chair. I understand it is hard to knit standing up. The afghan sampler class is also going on tonight. I am hoping Pam doesn't spill all details of our trip.

Thursday is a class on the BEAD and LACE Shawl. It is an impressive shawl. Saturday there is another class in the ever so popular Debbie Bliss Bag. This purse is more popular than a Coach bag right now. Don't be left out. Pam says it is a simple afternoon knit. Also the Noro Sweater class will be taking place. Make sure you catch one if not both of these classes.

I will be headed out on another adventure next week.

Frank

New calendar

Hello Dudettes,

Have you seen the June Calendar. It is SO TOTALLY AWESOME!!!!! There are so many classes that Anna had to put it on 2 sheets of paper. Not only that she color coded it so everyone can see what classes are in their skill level. How is that for BRILLIANT??????

There are classes for crochet hats, afghan squares, a bead and lace scarf, a goregous NORO GARDEN knit along Sweater. If you haven't see it, be sure to check out the front window. Pam is teaching the Debbie Bliss bag again. Another must have. It can be knocked out in a day. Cindy is teaching her eyelet stitch polo. Another awesome sweater that is in the front window. Can you beleive that is ONLY THE FIRST WEEK OF JUNE. If it is that busy can you imagine what the rest of the month looks like. Simply spectacular. From this 'paca there is something for everyone and everyone for something next month.

Dudettes, I am hearing rumors about Christmas in July. The classes are going to be Fantabulous. Keep an eye here for all the details.

Check out the right side of the blog. There is a scrolling picture blog of things people have made. A lot of those pictures were taken during last months SHOW IT OFF!!! That will be happening again June 9th. Make sure you don't miss it. Your finished items could be featured here.

Frank will be back soon. But then off again. He is such a busy sheep. What do you think - should Anna put me in charge of the blog and let Frank travel? I am sure my writings are much more interesting than that boring old sheep. After all how many FRAT 'PACAS do you know.
Maybe I should start a poll and take the results to Anna. Something to totally think about

Percy.

Girl time

Percy would not let me on the computer last night. He kept wanting to post instead of me. I told him it was my turn but he would not listen. So when Anna gets here she will find Percy in her office tied to a chair with Blue Heron. Strongest yarn around. She can untie him. Teach that alpaca to mess with a lady. HUMPH!!!!

So, like today is an awesome day to come in and see Anna. The Traveling Knit group will be here from 12-2. Debbie will be teaching her Baby Pancho and Hat from 11-1. That friendship table will be full to the max. They will be bringing in extra chairs. Better get there early.

I saw Anna working on the calendar for next month. It is like totally packed to the max with classes and fun. But there is still lots of fun for this month too. check out the calendar and see for your self.

Since Percy is otherwise, ummm, occupied time to go for a spin.

Frankie.

HEY DUDES!!!!

Hey Dudes (or should I say Dudettes). Percy here. Haven't been allowed to be on here since I got back from my totally AWESOME trip to Kansas. Those Frat guys know how to show a 'paca a good time. Kansas is totally the best place to vacation. Can't believe my Buddy Frank would ever want to leave that place. Awesome chicks, and cool bros. Just a totally bitchin' place to hang.

Anyway Dudettes (and dudes) Have you heard about what Anna has cooking for July. Yea, I know it is only May but she is such a fantabulous lady she is way ahead of the game and has a totally cool day planned for all you lovers of needle and hooks. Get it on your calendar now. July 18th is CHRISTMAS IN JULY!!!!!

Anna and her gang of buds are planning a day of Christmas fun in the California sun. Classes, bingo, raffles, give a ways. You name it and Anna is so totally on it. The sun may be shining out side but inside we will be rocking around the Christmas Tree from 9-MIDNIGHT!!!!

Now for the rest of this AWESOME month there are some great classes. Saturday Anna is going to teach the Entralac Scarf. If you haven't seen that you are totally missing a great knit for a great gift. Then on Sunday, there is a sock workshop. Making socks is like such a AWESOME thing to do. Very in right now. The sorority chicks were commenting on how cool stripped socks would be. I offered to save my coat for them and they could knit me some.

Next Friday is the JUST FOR EWE class. Make a simple gift to have on hand or keep it for yourself. Don't know what she is planning but I bet it is a keeper.

Hey gotta dash - my turn to choose some tunes - getting tired of Frankie and her Material Girl. Need some Frat Boy RAP!!!

Later Dudettes

PErcy.

What a night

Boy finally it is quiet. You would have thought there was a party going on at the store tonight. Happy Hour seemed to start early today. I can handle 6-8 but honestly 4:30 to 8. Don't those women have families to take care of and cook for?

There was more laughter tonight than ever. More conversations that any one sheep could eavesdrop on at one time.

The picture taking was a hit. Dena was the hit of the night with her computer and picture taking. She had everyone up on Ravelry faster than anything. She was even given private lessons on all the wonderful things you can do on Ravelry. She is truly amazing. She will be there in June - second Tuesday night. I will be in Kansas so I guess I will miss that one. Bet it will be quieter in a Kansas pasture with 300 sheep relatives than it was in the shop tonight.

I am leaving on Monday to head to the home land of Ireland. I will get lots of pictures of me and the relatives. I asked Pam to look at my family tree so we knew which herds to contact. Hopefully she will remember.

Anna is getting lots of takers on her Flip Flop Socks. The class is Thursday. Maybe they will start a new trend. Better come join in so you can be a trend setter too. Custom Knit knitalong will be going on Sunday from 2-4. Come see what they are making.

Frank

SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE!!!!!!!!I

I found a sheet of paper just laying around the shop last night. So, it was in the desk, under a book (Shearing Made Easy) behind the inventory catalog. But other than that it was just laying around. I know what the sale is. IT IS 15% OFF ANYTHING IN THE STORE. IF YOU ARE AN IN THE LOOP MEMBER THAT MEANS YOU GET 25% OFF!!!!!! If anyone is willing to come forth with the original pictures from a certain vacation I recently took I am sure I can sweeten the deal.

Now, yesterday before my sister decided to go on a ride I was about to tell you what new yarns had come in. And they will be included in the sale tomorrow as well so make sure you get there early to get best pick. It is a virtual rainbow of Berroco Comfort and Comfort DK. So many colors it is unbelievealbe. I know someone is using it to make a knitted Santa Claus that will be taught at Christmas in July. This person is also making a knitted Dragon that will be taught in the fall. All using Berroco Comfort DK.

Schaefer lace yarns and sock weights too. Elsabeth Lavold Silky Wool in about 10 new colors. The Custom Knit book has the coolest top made from the Silky Wool. The Knit Along group is making it now. Simply B-EWE-tiful.

Also...Ty-Dy from Knit One Crochet Too as well as Trendsetter Tonelita. The Tonilita is the most beautiful colorways ever. They knit up striped so beautifully. Both of these are for upcoming classes... You have to come in and see them.

Hey wait a minute - what was the name of that book? Something about Shearing... I think I had better go on another mission tonight and get rid of that.

FRANK.

Curise - 2 Frank - 0

Well, I went on my 2nd cruise and it wasn't as bad as the first but I, Frank the Mascot Sheep, vow to never do this again. While it wasn't as humid, this time I coulndn't get off the ship. Something about Swine Flu. What do I care if pigs have the flu? It can't be any worse then the Fleece flu, which I seemed to have a touch of during the cruise. The doc quarantined me to my cabin. What fun that was. NOT!!!!!! I wanted to see the sites, have a margarita, hit a pinata. Anna and Pam assured me it was for the best. There was lots to do on the ship but I had to promise everyone "what happened on the ship stayed on the ship" Anna even made me a card to wear around my neck to remind me of that. So mum's the word - at least until Anna isn't looking. I think she is worried about what stories I might tell about her. But her "secret's" are safe with me. (wink wink)

So much going's on at the shop. Happy Hour is back Tuesday night. I bet Pam will be happy to tell tales about the cruise. She will be teaching her Afghan square class that night. I need to check with her about what a sheep needs to pack for Ireland.

Have you checked out the sample of Debbie's Crochet kids poncho and hat. She will be teaching it Friday May 8th from 11-1.

Saturday is a HUGE HUGE day. Secret sale day. "You don't Have to Be a Mother"sale. So if ewe are a son, daughter, husband, aunt, uncle, or neighbor to a mom come on in and pick up something for the mom nearest you.

Pam agreed to teach the Debbie Bliss Purse class next Saturday. SHe taught this class on the cruise and everyone loved it. It is large enough to hold all your goodies (and a spare sheep or 2 for good measure on your next trip)

In honor of Mother's day the shoppe will be closed Sunday May 10th. Make sure ewe spend time with your mom that day. I will be calling mine. Hope Anna doesn't check teh phone bill to closely.

Frank

WOOHOOO!!!! QUEEN OF THE CASTLET!!!!!!

Like he is gone again and I rule the roost. Ignore the alpaca in the corner. I am the queen of the Yarn Shoppe. I can do what I want stay up as late as I want. Heck with the shortened hours this week I can sleep as late as I want. Everyone went on the cruise so Anna shortened the hours. This gives me more time to play. Yeah, Dena and Cathy are here to keep me in line but give them Hibiscus Lemonade and I think I can get them to leave me to do what I want.

Frank said he would be calling me from the ship to check up on things. Hope he doesn't get caught using Anna's credit card. She would not be happy to see those charges on her bill. Maybe if he does get caught Anna will leave me in charge and I can go to Ireland instead. May have to tell her to keep an eye on her credit card bill when she gets back. After all she does trust me - I told her there was something suspicious in the green yarn the other day.....

frankie

WHO DID IT?!?!?!

I wanna know who sold me out!!!! Who told Anna where I was hiding? I thought I blended in so well with the green chunky yarn that she would never ever find me. She says it was the sneeze that gave me away. I don't think so. My sneezes are very danity and quiet. I think someone saw me and gave me away. I don't think Anna had a reward out for me so I don't know why anyone would do it.

I guess my goose is cooked. I am going on the cruise. Anna said something about sucking it up and taking it like a sheep. FINE!!! I will go but I WON'T have fun. She can't make me. I will stay in my cabin and plot. I have a great idea for a new sale for Mother's Day. This will give me time to get it all figured out. When will Anna learn not to mess with me. I am smarter than the average sheep you know.

Have you seen the May calendar. It is on the website. www.cayarnshoppe.com There are some great classes. May 8 Debbie will be having a crochet baby poncho and hat class. May 9th there is a Debbie Bliss bag class

May 12 there is something new. If you bring your finished projects into the shop from 6-8, the staff will take pictures of them and email them to you. Then you can post them on Ravelry or send them to your friends. That also happens to be during Happy Hour so it is a great time to stop in anyway.

Anna is teaching an Entralac scarf class on May 23. And Cathy will be having her first beginning Dyeing Class May 30. There is so much more to tell you about but my hoofs are getting tired.

See you when I get back. Anna better remember the Dramamine.

Frank.

When will she learn?

Remember how I mentioned I had gone into hiding? I don't think Anna realizes I am gone yet. I was hiding in the bulky yarns and over heard a conversation between Anna, Cathy and Dena. Anna was complaining about my post. You know the one where I told the TRUTH about the cruise. She was going on and on about how she was not responsible for packing for me. That she had her own packing to do as well as her 3 kids. How could she possibly be responsible for packing for a sheep. She said it was not her fault I didn't have sunscreen or my motion sickness medicine. "She is not my mother"



She had enough to do and I should admit responsiblity for my mistake and not lay the blame on her. WELL!!!!! She also said I was going on this next cruise whether I liked it or not. My passage had been paid for and people were expecting me to be there. It was in my contract to be there and to be polite. She has to find me first. If she thinks being a mom is tough she should try being a sheep. I think I have an idea for a sale. Let me think a little more.



I also overheard plans for bringing in some cool designers as well as something more about Christmas in July. It sounds fun. Classes everyday to get everyone in the spirit of making Christmas gifts. Wonder what I will teach?



Did you hear for 3 weeks this summer there will be kids in here learning to knit? For 2 hours every morning laughing, smiling kids interuppting my sleep. What is Anna thinking? If I wasn't in hiding I would talk to her and have her rethink her plans.



Well, bust burrow in. If you see me, don't give away my hiding place.



FRANK