Heavens To Betsy

Samples have NOT gone out yet - Don't worry :)

2012-02-01T06:03:00.000-08:00

Some of you have already noticed that I put the wools up on the website last night

WOW, You guys are good!

I am here to assure you that there is NO reason to worry - The swatches have NOT gone out yet.

Our delivery was way late - It came last night.

We needed two more yards of every wool in order to finish all of the swatches to be sent out. So that is what we are working on right now, Getting them washed, Cut and glued.

( Is that really how you spell Glued, What a weird looking word :)~ )

I put the wools up on the website because it takes a long time to get them all up there, Especially when you have an eight year old that has a hidden candy stash that she visited at 5 O'clock at night!!!

And I wanted everyone to be able to have a larger image of them for when the samples do finally go out :)

You are more than welcome to order now or wait for the swatches. We are rotating days of shipping and swatches.

Hopefully real soon once it isn't so crazed around here there will be some fun posts. I plan to do a video on how the rug braiding clamp works - Just a little show and tell.

I am also hoping to do a post and maybe even a video ( I hate seeing myself on camera ) on how to stash bust by using wool strips to crochet a rug. It goes real fast! and it's a great way to use up all of that wool that you don't know what to do with.

Worst Blogger

2012-01-25T08:30:00.000-08:00

Hi Again, Remember Me, It's the worst blogger ever!

I could try to explain all the details of what has happened in the past month

But you wouldn't believe me!

Just popping in for a second to assure you we really are working and New samples and wools will be on the website eventually! - Long story

I am cutting the samples and taking pics now

and since we have been receiving emails from so many wools addicts, I am going to give you a little teaser.

We do NOT know when the samples will go out or the wool will actually be here

- All we know is it will be soon and it is GORGEOUS !

All of them tear fantasticly, Wash up great and feels oh so good. This is one of the BEST offerings we have ever had and although we hate waiting just as much as you, We are extremely HAPPY with the quality. Making it worth the wait :)

Our remakes that will be available:

Tic Toc

Shepherd's sheep

Kermit

Turkey Feathers

Brickhouse red

And The Newbies :

Butterscotch, Little Boy Blue, Polly Peacock, Rasberry Crumb, Tinker, Harvest Moon, Kingston and Prairie Dog

Okay I gotta get back to cutting samples before the Boss finds me on the computer!

~erica

Gift Certificates and specials coming soon

2011-12-13T14:44:00.000-08:00

Snail Mail Gift Certificate Orders

need to be placed by next Monday

to ensure timely arrival .

Please email:

betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com

for special requests

Wool at holiday prices to be added this week to the website!

Happy Thanksgiving, Shelbourne Show LOT of pics!!

2011-11-23T15:12:00.001-08:00

OKay, First I have to say, I am sorry. A LOT of sample swatches got lost in the mail. If you would like to make sure you are on the list to receive swatches email me at

erica@heavens-to-betsy.com

I most likely will NOT reply to you

( cause there are so many and I am just one)

but I will make sure you are on our list to receive the next set, Due out in the beginning of Feb.

Second I apologize for typing the way I talk, I know it is confusing.

Third I apologize for not having all of the name for the MOST amazing rugs at Shelbourne VT.

My hubby and Grace ( and me ) went to go Shelbourne VT to help mom pack up and come home after the 10 day show in Shelbourne. ( Okay we went because we ABSOLUTELY love Vermont and we know they have the best cheeses and smoked meats)

we literary arrived, took pics and left ( stopping only at Harrington's to pick up the BEST smoked meats, cheeses and some crackers. Although service didn't come with the well known smile and hospitality, THEY rock)

So without further ado the rug pics, Again without names, I apologize deeply.

One of my absolute favorites did NOT have enough lighting!

and that is my only complaint.

Wish I could Have gotten a better pic of this one, It was one of my absolute favorites:

White Enamel Dye Pots Coming Soon!!!!!

2011-11-10T07:43:00.000-08:00

We are extremely pleased that we will soon have White Enamel Dye Pots for sale on our website and at shows!!!!

As many of you know Manhattan Wardrobe ( where most of us get our dye pots ) are no longer selling our beloved pots.

Speaking of shows.... Mom is leaving shortly for Shelbourne Vermont for the Green Mountain Rug Show.

Hope to see you there :)

A Give Away and a pillow....

2011-11-02T07:37:00.000-07:00

Mom took some down time to get a little hooking done during our snowstorm.

The pattern is by Wooden Sails , Debbie St. Germain

The pattern is called: Antique Black Cats

( It is a $3.00 Paper pattern and is adjustible to any size by enlarging )

And if your here for the GiveAway you need to go here:

WOODLAND JUNCTION

If you are not a hooker, Just leave a comment on your favorite hobbie :)

Saundra also has a website that showcases her primitive dolls.

Christmas presents anyone ?

The Dummies at Heavens to Betsy

2011-11-01T14:56:00.000-07:00

Mom and I have been having a whole lot of fun with the two new Dummies at Heavens to Betsy!

and a bit of sewing was done a few weeks ago too!

:) SEE I told you they were Dummies!!!

I have always been afraid to attempt to make a hat, I thought I would just be saying bad words the whole time. My daughter really does not need to hear those, Next thing you know I would be down at the principal's office...

But I got the pattern for the hat that is in the second photo on etsy from MCHATS ( for $4.50 in PDF form)

AND she sent me a link to the other Bucket hat pattern FREE!

The hat in the second photo is too big for my head ( I have a beetlejuice head ) so as soon as I get time I am going to adjust the pattern.

Get this - It is only TWO pieces, Two for the main hat and two for the liner. The process is SO much simpler than I thought it would be.

I am no longer afraid to make hats! Fear Conquered, I am the queen of the world... (Who still has to do laundry and cooking and grocery shopping, Well you get the idea.)

I found these hats an absolute JOY to make. The bucket hat didn't come with instructions but if you have made a bag with a liner, It is the same process of pulling the right sides out through a gap in stitching. I am definitely going to take a whole day to devote to making hats (and a mess of the living room because my husband hasn't built my dream sewing room yet) soon.

Hope everyone had a great Halloween!!! We went tricker treating and had a blast seeing so many adults dressed up this year! ( we were prisoners and Grace was a witch ) Here is the only photo of Rick and Grace I managed to quickly take while it was light out:

I wish I could have taken photos of all the Grown ups in costume!!!

but it got dark really quickly. The great thing was there were alot of people out in there yards with bonfires and music just having a really good time, Lots and lots of smiles. Which is what it is all about :)

Way Behind.... Going with the flow

2011-10-27T06:18:00.000-07:00

Just when we think we have this down to a science....

We are a little scattered at the moment :)

But I did find out why my posts weren't posting: I wasn't signed in under the right name, GUHH , Really?...

I was hoping to write an actual intelligent post but it just isn't in the cards, Sorry.

I know most of you are waiting for the Give Away Post so you know the new wools are coming soon, But we got it all backwards this time around.

The new wools are up on the website now and I am attempting to make it so you can actually see the wools without a magnifying glass! :)

I feel absolutely HORRIBLE about not giving the Blogger with the most-est Her proper Intro. I have not even sent her the wools!!! Aaack ( It going out today, I swear, Just as sooon as I find my brains ).

Saundra of Woodland Junction is just one of those gals you instantly like. Someone knew what they were doing when they put us two in sepperate states that is for sure! We would paint the town and have Wayy tooo much fun together.

Saundra also has a special connection with this mailers' wool but she can tell you about that!

Again, I have not even sent her the wools so do please give her some time, please. But you can certainly stop in and enjoy her blog.

Okay , I am going back to work now. Mom is probably waiting for her coffee as I type ! But her is a little teaser :)

Blogger!!!!!!

2011-10-23T06:18:00.000-07:00

I have written posts... We are not ignoring you

BLOGGER has changed everything! and has lost my posts.

I don't even know if this will reach you.

We will get this back to normal.

We do have NEW wools coming soon, I promise.

Fall Bag from 1,2,3 Sew book By Blog host The Longthread

2011-09-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

My jaw dropped when I saw this bag, I was so J-E-A-L-O-U-S .

Imagine my utter shock when I realized it was sewn with Our Wool!

Now, Isnt that just the most beautiful fall handbag?

I own the book 1,2,3 Sew and I have to say I enjoy it because of the fact I have litterally picked a pattern from the book, Picked the fabric and sewn it without any Cusssing!!

That is a sure testiment of a good craft book - in my opinion.

I love the reversible skirt patttern so much! Thank you Ellen.

Check out the Longthread blog here I linked it to the post on the purse but Ellen has alot of great things over there to check out Including great Tutorials that you can use cottons or wools with.

We are Here

2011-09-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all of your warm wishes to us Irene took hold over us.

Thankfully we escaped most of the fury.

Are Hearts go out to all of those who were effected by Irene.

I am so saddened by the devestation in particular to Vermont.

My husband and I love to take weekend getaways to the small towns of Vermont. We have met some of the most WONDERFUL people there.

If you ever stay or travel in VT. Please stop in to

The Jamaica House Bed and Breakfast

Jamaica was one of the towns effected by Irene.

It is filled with the most good natured, truly caring people and Best! baked goods. Just down the road is Harmonyville ( yes, I almost talked my husband into moving there just so I could say I lived in Harmonyville ). A little farther down the road is Townshend ( stop in for great smoked meats and cheeses ), The town in which scenes from Chevy Chases' movie Funny Farm was filmed. A truly warm and kind community.

Folk N' Fiber has a new website Be sure to check it out!

And a few etsy finds ( links directly to etsy page )

Those are our wools! :)

Backpack:

And there is a slight possibillity this will be gone by the time you see this:

Another pillow by the same seller equally as cute:

Website Closed for a Few Days

2011-08-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

Heavens to Betsy Website is temporarily Closed due to Severe Weather and Power outages expected.

We will be back up and running soon.

If you would like to email us the email addresses are

betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com

and

erica@heavens-to-betsy.com

Erica has a generator and when her husband goes out to help people at the emergency shelters, she disconnects the freezer to use her computer :)

Who needs all that food when you have a whole farm on farmville to take care of!

Orange Sink and an angry Irene

2011-08-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

If you don't know Cathy over at Orange Sink You simply must go over and say HI !

Cathy is one of the nicest people you could ever meet. She is working on some kits at the moment for an adult education class. I am sure she would love some positive feedback and cheering on!

We know that Cathy is not only an awsome person, She is very talented and will be an excellent teacher.

So go visit Cathy at Orange Sink before the power goes out!

In case your just tuning in:

There hasn't been a single storm that has not effected mom's house in the past 25 years she has owned it. Her house has lost power for an entire week while all her neighbors were un-Scathed. From wires burning, Lightening hitting phones and computers repeatedly, Branches out of nowhere going through their windows. - You name it and it has happened.

SO:

If you try to get a hold of us after Irene comes through, We may not have power. It is looking like a bad one. ( I am sitting here hoping that if I make a big deal out of it - it won't be anything but a rainstorm )

BUT just in case, Please make sure you and your loved ones are safe.

Best $$ Spent

2011-08-13T17:36:00.000-07:00

I love to hear about other people's favorites. I spend a great deal of time reading Amazon reviews when searching for products. Don't you just LOVE Amazon?

My husband tells me he is out of bodywash right after I go shopping! You log onto Amazon and Boom next day three bottles of bodywash delivered right to your door for less money, Love it. Bless you UPS.

First I just want to say that I am in no way being paid to say or endorse any of these products. I truly do use these and Love them.

Okay first up:

Source of Life Liquid

Eeew a vitamin and a liquid one! That is what you start with?

Seriously... I whole-heartedly support this product. After being sick for a while with Lyme disease I was introduced to this vitamin and have never looked back. It gives you a kick of energy everytime. It goes in your refrigerator and you take a gulp each moning. I do however not like the taste of the other ones they have, Just the yellow bottle.

Brother SE-350

$350

If you don't have thousands to spend on a sewing machine but want one that does it ALL, This is it. Both me and my daughter learned how to sew on this machine. It is EASY peasy to use. Has speed control, The EASIEST ever threading mechanism ( seriously easy and works everytime), Bobbin low indicator,Auto Safety mechanism, AND can sew through 8 Layers of WOOL, With NO problem!

Philosophy, The Supernatural

Don't like gobs of make-up? Like nice even Skin tone while protecting yourself from the sun?

This is a tinted SPF. It goes on really silky and works well instead of foundation, LOVE it.

GINGHER Scissors

If you have never owned a pair of Gingher Scissors, You are missing a crucial tool in your crafting supplies.

Get them at Joanns when you have a coupon or they have a sale.

They are worth every penny. I personally like the bent handled ones.

Nobody touches my Ginghers' in my house. It is grounds for sleeping on the porch!

It has come to my attention that people outside of NY or the NorthEast Do not know the pleasure of the MallowMar. Every fall when the weather starts getting cooler, The leaves start to turn, The school buses start making their runs, Our favorite sweaters are pulled out of their nesting spots; the grocery stores start stocking New Yorkers favorite un-healthy treat. If you go into any grocery store in the fall months, There will undoubtedly be a huge display that only goes to say that Summer has left us and fall is in full swing.

Watsonsoaps on etsy

Beautiful handmade soaps and hand spun yarns with the most wonderful person running the shop. Becca from Watsonsoaps on etsy is hands-down one of the loveliest people. Her soaps and yarns are gorgeous and come in the most loveliest of handmade shipping. Keep checking her shop as she is a working mother and doesn't always have all of her goods up.

Intex 12x30 pool $100.

Best ever $100. spent ! we have one at mom's (Betsy's) house and Mine. Big enough for an adult to take a dip and large enough for a seven year old to tire herself out in. Don't buy the ladder unless you need it. Use shock and swim if you need it, That's all there is to it.

Keen Shoes

I have several pair of Keen shoes and every one is worth the money. Always comfortable, True to size and they look great.

Bearclaw boots on Amazon

I have this pair in green, They are SO comfy! and they look young and mature at the same time, LOVE it.

Below is a pic of my Grace's Bearclaw boots ( They are in Women's Sizes if anyone simply must have )

AND who does not love Betty White?

Really who? I will come to your house and turn on the match game and The Golden Girls and Make you love her!

T-shirt and pin available on etsy from rainbowalternatives . A great nightshirt!

More new wools to be added soon

2011-08-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

I will be adding a few more new wools ( Only short yardage available ) to the website within the week!

I am also lowering the price on Remnant Bags - As Quite a few of you are requesting

THREE BAGS FULL !

and it is helping with moving the last pieces of some of our Sold Out wools, Thank you!

Mom is in Virginia this week teaching ~ I hear she not only has the greatest group, She is having a great time too!

How is your summer going?

Shh... Were Back!

2011-08-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

Only an hour and a half drive but a lifetime away....

Living in NY we forget that all of the gorgeous Adirondacks are in our own backyard.

As per usual, I forgot to take many pictures.

While we were away we Kayaked, Boated, Fished, Saw the Smurf movie (too smurfin' cute. Neil Patrick Harris and the movie too), Shopped, Ate Ice Cream everyday, Fed the Geese and ducks, set off fireworks ( don't tell ), Grace went swimming every second she could and generally we forgot about all our worries.

If you haven't been able to get away this summer, I hope you get the chance to take a few days for youselves with no cell phones or t.v's and cares of what needs to be done. - Even if it is in your own backyard :)

I was searching for a place to go just Rick and I for a long weekend. We were thinking about the Poconos. Anyone have any suggestions in the northeast?

While looking for place to go I found this place and OMG, It looks great for anyone with kids or grandkids! Watch the virtual tour !

If you want a really good vacation for the kids this is where I am taking The family next:

http://www.greatwolf.com/poconos/waterpark

Hre is the link for the video for the one in PA:
Video for Great Wolf Park in PA
They have a few more locations too!

My Grandma was a Hooker

2011-07-24T05:08:00.000-07:00

That never gets old!

I was sitting here remembering Grandma Anne.

The way her kitchen was always filled with people, Food and glass mayonaise jars full of dyes (does anyone remember that - Glass jars! , Nothing comes in glass jars anymore).

I found this great site for those who would like to try their hand at natural dying

Making Natural Dyes From Plants

and here is a great site from a fantastic gal, For Marrying or stewing wool or other fabrics NO dyes needed for this great way of blending colors:

FOLK AND FIBER

May your home be full of joy, laughter and cool air this summer.

Last chance for 15% off

2011-07-20T04:26:00.000-07:00

Just a friendly reminder that tonight at midnight is the end of our take 15% off savings.

dicount coupon code: happybirthdaybetsy

www.heavens-to-betsy.com

Thank you for all of your Happy Birthdays' to mom.

This is the first year she has not gone to rug hooking camp for her birthday in about 12 years!

Next year we will be at the Kentucky Shaker Village Retreat!

A few more openings for the second session are open, For anyone who would like to join us.

The atmosphere is so relaxing and fun.

Mom has been busy overdying wools ~ yup, dying on the hottest days of summer~

Grace is getting ready for her first Full Tackle football meet!

She refuses to allow me to buy pink cleats :(

15% off any order over $30.

2011-07-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

Take 15% off any purchase of $30. or more from now until July 20th with discount coupon code:

happybirthdaybetsy

Put code in the discount coupon section of your cart at checkout ( not the gift voucher section)

Retail orders only. Canadians welcome (please e-mail us for correct shipping totals)

Don't forget to register for the ATHA biennial!

An Oliver & S cape

2011-07-10T08:26:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with Oliver & S book a long time ago simply for the cape on the cover of the book. I have been meaning to get around to sewing one up for quite some time. Grace LOVES it and already wants another one! I plan to use Heather Ross's Far Far Away 3 for the next one.

The Neighbors Must think I am crazy Having my kid outside in wool in the summer!!! but it is the only time I find to get things done. Grace was a good sport about it Although it could be because I told her she could watch t.v for an hour :)

Being uploaded to the website Now

2011-06-27T19:11:00.000-07:00

NEW WOOLS for Summer 2011 being added to the website now!

A pillow and A giveaway!

2011-06-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

More New wools coming soon

But until then...

A sneak peak at one of my personal faves that is soon to be available. Sorry-Photos taken with my cell phone . Head over to Alice Frazier's blog A day in the life for your chance to win some of the New wools not even on our website yet!

Wool is called Andrew Sister ( W.A.C.s) and is even more vintage and funky in person!

Yummy New Wools ~Website exclusives~ added to the website

2011-06-20T18:04:00.000-07:00

New Wools added to the website!

These wools are not going on a mailer

heavens-to-betsy.com

Canada Post Nationwide Strike ~ We will Resreve your wool

2011-06-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

A quick note concerning Canadian orders

As of 6/19/2011 The Canada Post will not accept any First Class Mail, Priority International Mail or Express mail international.

If you live in Canada and would like to reserve yardage of our wool we WILL reserve it for you and ship when possible.

All you have to do is e-mail your order to:

betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com

erica@heavens-to-betsy.com

and make the notation that you would like your yardage set aside to be mailed after the mail strike.

We will email you when we are ready to ship with the total for your order plus shipping charges and send a PAYPAL invoice to you.

My heart truly goes out to you Canadians, I can't imagine the business impact of the situation and hope that the strike will be reserved in a timely manner.

Oh For Heavens Sakes!

2011-06-18T16:45:00.000-07:00

Can I please get through one mailer without a mistake :)

- Read on for the best Girl Power History Lesson

Ok, So we just printed of the sample sheets for our upcomming mailer and...

I made a youngin Goof.

We have a wool Named the Andrew Sisters ( W.A.C.'s)

Well you guessed it I spelled it W.A.X.

This wool is so vintage it's retro cool! My absolute fave. I have already made a pillow out of it ( which I will share shortly) and my first reaction to it was M*A*S*H.( Which I still love watching till this day, along with the Golden Girls and Matlock, I can say this now because it is now hip to be geeky. Like my dad always says: "Just wait long enough, It will be cool")- and mom replied "The Andrew Sisters and W.A.C."

So, If you don't know what a W.A.C. is (because like me you always fell asleep during history class because your teacher wanted to be a musician but ended up a teacher)

W.A.C. or WAAC is the term for the for Women Army Corps . These were the most awsomest women ever!

Brief history in the most lamest terms:

In 1942 the U.S. Goverment said Eek we don't have enough soldiers. They sent word out and made official that women could join the army. Only expecting maybe 11,000, Imagine their shock when150,000!!!! Women showed up to get physically trained, Toughened and inauculated for disease and shipped off to war!

(I think somebody didn't want to cook and clean anymore)

Get This: The Manual these women were given Starts out: "Your Job: To Replace Men. Be Ready To Take Over."^[

^Yeah!

Well, Men through a hissy fit and said it was going to hurt the masculinity of what they were doing (mm hmm)

And that it wasn't safe. But before that, General Douglas MacArthur called the WACs "my best soldiers", adding that they worked harder, complained less, and were better disciplined than men.^[12] Many generals wanted more of them and proposed to draft women but it was realised that this "would provoke considerable public outcry and Congressional opposition" and the War Department declined to take such a drastic step.^[13] Those 150,000 women that did serve released the equivalent of 7 divisions of men for combat. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower said that "their contributions in efficiency, skill, spirit, and determination are immeasurable.

And there you have it, W.A.C's in a nutshell.

It Is Official ! 2012 Shaker Village Rug Hooking Retreat

2011-06-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

All of the T's have been crossed and the I's have been dotted

Shaker Rug Hooking Retreat

July 14th ~ July 18th 2012

July 18th ~ July 22nd2012

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill 3501 Lexington Road Harrodsburg, KY 40330

Betsy Reed Beverly Stewart

betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com cas13ie@aol.com

Imagine 4 days of rug hooking, learning new techniques, visiting with old and new friends, having fun and relaxing at the historic, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. To see more of this beautiful and majestic place you can visit www.shakervillageky.org. Whether you want to begin a new project or need help finishing one you have already started, you can get color-planning help and ideas from both Betsy and Bev.

There will be door prizes, demonstrations, rug hooking and braiding instruction by both Betsy and Beverly and some “surprises”!! Whether you are a “new hooker” or are experienced, this will be a camp you will truly enjoy.

Camp will begin with a “Meet and Greet” at 3pm at the West Family Wash House. We will be hooking here at the Wash House so please bring your hooking, supplies, find your “hooking spot” and meet the other campers. At 5:30pm we will all have dinner together at the Inn at Shaker Village. You can then go back and hook or retire for the evening. Class will begin the following day after a delicious hot buffet breakfast in the dinning hall (Breakfast will be served each morning) Thursday). We will hook until lunch and then we will have a “Sack Lunch” prepared by Shaker Village. Your afternoons can be spent hooking, exploring Shaker Village (tours available), antiquing or shopping in town. Dinner will be “on your own”. We will have one or two evening projects if you wish to participate. You are welcome to stay in the hooking room to hook as late as you would like. We will have 24 hour access to the hooking room.

Room accommodations ~ Guest rooms will be available at Shaker Village at a group rate. Single $75.00 per night and double rooms $85.00 per night. You will need to make reservations for your stay. Please call and speak with Anne at 1-800-734-5611 ext. 1548 and mention you are with the Rug hooking Retreat to book your reservation. Please visit the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill website to see the rooms and amenities available. There is a refrigerator, coffee pot and microwave available in the West Family Dwelling building for all to use.

Cost for the Retreat: $350.00

This includes Meals: One dinner, 4 ~ Buffet breakfasts and 3 ~ “Sack Lunches”

Instruction with two teachers ~ Betsy Reed and Beverly Stewart.

( You will have 24 hour access to the hooking room )

Shaker Village tour pass for the week ~ $10.00

There will be plenty of as is wool, dyed wool and patterns available. We will have a Camp Store with specials goods especially made for or “camp” All of you are welcomed to bring items for sale – we want to make this a great store. Please get additional information and forms from Betsy or Beverly. A 15% fee will be withheld on anything sold to help with expenses.

RUG SHOW ~ Wednesday evening we will have a rug show. Please bring as many rugs you like ~ with each rug entered you will earn a chance at a prize.

Please contact Betsy or Bev ( e-mails up above)

if you would like to attend

Important update

2011-06-09T16:14:00.000-07:00

Please make sure you'r e-mail address to contact us is betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com or erica@heavens-to-betsy.com the email address reed1@mhcable is no longer effective

Last night we had lots of this:

And this morning this:

So we went to town and visited our favorite people at Staples and after oh about three and a half hours - mom will have a top notch computer that as long as it is not in a tornado or hurricane should last another 10 years or so.

But she will NOT have her new computer until next week ( They are going to SuperCharge that little machine for her )

So if you need us for anything you can use the store contact button or e-mail erica at erica@heavens-to-betsy.com or call us at 518-851-2149

On A Much Better Note:

We had some visitors

Wonder what is in there? :)

Congrats Dee - You Won! and what we are up to

2011-06-04T09:43:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Dee, I am sending the pattern out to you on Monday. Thank you all for entering. More giveaways coming soon :)

Because.....

We have more wool coming of course!

This time I will try taking pics of the truck being unloaded. Its amazing how quickly the barn fills up.

You may have noticed that we have been a wee bit quiet on the blog. We have been keeping busy...
Dad built Grace anne a house from scratch for my backyard. I joked that go figure Her house got pretty much done before mine or mom's!

Here is Grace Anne and Pop Pop ( Eric )

And Erica's Husband Rick putting a chimney on

Grace Saying "it looks a little crooked :) )

Here is what I was able to get done as far as the painting before ALL of this rain
The part of lawn that has hardly any grass is because that whole section was a garden for the past few years.

Grandma and Grace picked out the paint colors. I used a sponge cut in a circle and hot glued it to the bottom of a can of peaches for the PolkeeDots on the inside.

Here is what is going on at mom's house :

Yup That is her "kitchen" or what is left of it . Well at least she doesn't have to cook!

Pattern Giveaway

2011-05-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

Dad accidently drew off this patern too close to the edge of the Linen. Dad's goof up is your chance to win a FREE pattern!

*you will have to sew an extra piece of cloth or linen to the one edge in order to hook that top edge.

Enter a comment by pushing the comment button for your chance to win. We pay the shipping. Please Make sure there is a Way to contact you if you are the lucky winner!

Sorry about the fold creases :)

I will pick the winner Next Friday

Almost out of stock

2011-05-25T09:33:00.000-07:00

Mom is in Texas at camp, Hope she is taking lots of pictures!

I have been doing mundane housework but have started about 10 different sewing projects too!

I wanted to let everyone know that we are dangerously Low on a few wools:

Midnight Magic - About 15 yards left

Smokestack - About 6 yards left

Monkey Bread - About 30 yards left

Rainbow Squares - about 20 yards left

Brown sugar - About 7 yards left

Humpty Dumpty - about 7 yards left

Christmas Tree Plaid - About 5 yards

Wisteria - About 22 yards left

Springtime - About 2 and a 1/2 yards left

English Garden - About 30 yards left

pheww..

Note - It is OK if nobody bus the Midnight Magic ( Erica wants it for herself! :) ) What a cute jacket and skirt set it would make.

The best website for a bookworm and Pinterest

2011-05-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

For anyone who might even consider themselves a bookworm I have a great FREE site to share. I have been listing all of the books I know I have read, Books I want to read and of course what I am reading now.

I tried keeping it all on index cards and in notebooks a long time ago but I had a hard time keeping track of where I put the Darn things and remembering to write it all down.

And of course.... How many of you have bought the same book TWICE?

Grrr, They change the book covers on us and republish them.

I think I have even bought the same book twice and Mom has bought me a copy of said book!

I am loving the ease of use of goodreads.com and they also send me e-mails when my authors have something interesting on their blog.

And I can't believe I forgot to share this ( some of you may know already, I am a little slow sometimes )

Pinterest.com

The absolute most awsome site on the internet!!!!

ANY time you see a picture you like all you have to do is click your button on your toolbar and it adds it to your board. This is FANTASTIC !

I needed inspiration for doing a cathedral quilt pillow and found these:

This one is an idea for what to do with all those little pieces of embroidery floss that just arent big enough:

There is so much on Pinterest !

I highly reccomend trying and getting your FREE account

( I had to wait a week to get invited because it is so popular)

The little " pin it " button for your toolbar is amazing.

Say you are reading a blog and they show this gorgeous penny rug you want to remember. All you have to do is push your "Pin It" button and a little pop up screen comes up with all the pics that are on that page and you choose which one you want to put on your board. That is all there is to it. You can add a note to yourself too, If you would like ( great for remembering what you want to get someone as a gift! )

OHIO Hook-In Saturday

2011-05-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

Blogger has been unavailable for what seems like forever as well as our newsletter provider. I apologize that this is last minute....

Ohio Hook-In

If you are in the area please stop by and visit

Heavens to Betsy

Western Reserve Rug Hookers Annual Hook-in

Saturday, May 14, 2011, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Lake Metroparks Farm Park, 8800 Chardon Road, Kirtland, Ohio

Contact Elaine Molyet, emolyet@sbcglobal.net or Jane Aebie, gblablover@windstream.net

Giveaways,Rug Braiding Clamps and Remnant bags Oh My!

2011-05-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Mom just got back from the North Carolina hook-in. I will be adding pictures in the next few days.

Mom's slogan should be

"Have wool, Will Travel"

We have been having fun making remnant bags! Approximately - 2 pounds each!

We received a phone call from a friend of a woman who was selling at a fiber festival, Her friend got fined lots of $$$ because she was selling yarn or something of the like by weight and didn't note that the weight was approximate!!!

Lesson noted.

Here are a couple of pics of the rug braiding clamps mom and I both use. I am going to put them up on the website shortly if anyone is interested.

Oh yes , I said something about a giveaway didnt I?

Cheri from Back to Larkrise is doing another giveaway shortly. Be checking her blog for updates!

Oh before I forget...

Bev and mom's Shaker rug hooking retreat in Kentucky is already full so .... They are adding more days and breaking it into two slots!!!!

( I am using alot of exclamations for just one post, But I love them!!!!!!)

More info will be coming as soon as they finalize all the details.

One last thing:
BERNINA is giving away a $2500 BERNINA gift card AND a $2500 Home depot gift card !!!!!!!!!
All you have to do is show your messy crafting space.
Visit them on facebook or their website for more info
and if you win Dont forget where you heard about it! - I kid, I kid

Power and my new braided rug lacers

2011-04-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hmm... Is it a bad thing to be kinda giddy that the power might go out again tonight, So I dont have to cook dinner?

My husband's boss is a rug hooker and she sent my hubby home with the most wonderful thing a few weeks ago:

They are bent wooden Needles from Accessories Unlimited.com I have been using these wonderful needles to lace my braided rug. They Are Wonderful!!!!

I really didn't care for the regular lacing tool, It didn't feel right. These are much easier on my fingers and hands. The website also has Knitting supplies, Pins, Scissors and purse handles too!

Also..

For anyone into redwork and other emboidery tools and supplies... Might I suggest

BirdBrainDesigns

They have tons of wool applique kits too

Busy Betsy !

2011-04-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Mom has been keeping busy!

Lately she has been having some fun with torn/ripping larger strips of wool.

These first two are not finished just yet. As you can see in the first photo, Mom puts a few of her mats all on one piece of linen. It saves linen but I think it is just to put off the finishing.

Wish I could have gotten a better picture of this one. The colors are gorgeous!

Cats on a fence:

and now in the grass because the coast is clear from the neighbor's guinea hens that keep coming on her property to attack us!

A pumpkin using cut paisley

Mom's horse pillow using all different wools ( remnant bags available on our website :) )

The side view of the horse pillow using a Primitive whipping stitch to hold the torn cotton binding

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Storage and addiction to all things craft

2011-04-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

Both mine and mom's house are under construction at the moment and it doesn't seem to be looking good for either of us. So... We both have to make sure our fabric is protected and put away and able to move around, If we need to.

I also have an addiction to all things craft and may soon be found on the show Hoarders.

My daughter spilled milk near my workbench and this is the result:

So I broke down and went to the local Walmart ( we are not lucky enough to have an IKEA or even target close by ) and got these:

Not my idea of pretty but I think it may be best. How do you organize?

Oh, I also got this cute little plastic bin for my patterns to go into, It looks like a Liberty of London print! So I couldn't resist.

Does anyone else hoard crating books? They are almost as addicting as fabric!

This is Patrick, I created him by Failing miserably at enlarging and sewing a pattern from Countryside softies. He may not have come out anywhere near the way he was supposed to but he's my first softie.

I found this pic through another blog and had to share it!

Shaker Rug Hooking Retreat News: We will have all of the cost information available shortly. We have had a number of people already ask to Hold a spot for them, If you know that you are interested also, You can email Betsy at betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com

Both Beverly Stewart and Betsy will be the instructors for the retreat. We are looking forward to having an Upbeat, Relaxing,Fun filled four days. You can bring as many projects as you wish in order to work on or get advice on. You are also more than welcome to bring your own patterns and wools to use.

There will be plenty of as is wool, Dyed wool and patterns available, As well as a camp store that you may sell any handmades you wish to.

Shaker Rug Hooking Retreat with Betsy Reed and Beverly Stewart

2011-04-14T16:48:00.000-07:00

July 15th - July 19th 2012

Join

Betsy Reed and Beverly Stewart

at the

Shaker Rug Hooking Retreat

Taking place at the

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Harrodsburg,Kentucky

This is sure to be a Fun, Laughter filled, Relaxing time for everyone!

I can almost taste those Fried Green Tomatoes.

More details will be coming soon

If you know you are already interested in joining us, Email betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com

Note to Husbands : This would make an excellent Christmas Gift!

Here are some photos of Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

You can visit them at their website here to see more photos and gather information.

See more photo on their Flickr page

Exciting News Coming Soon!

2011-04-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

We Have some exciting news to share !

But I wanted to share a few photos with you first...And keep you in suspense

hint: Kentucky July 2012

Stitchbird Fabrics

2011-04-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

For those of you joining us from New Zealand, We would love for you to check out:
Stitchbirdfabrics

They have gorgeous cottons and sewing patterns. I just bought Jodi Carleton's Parsley and Beet Pattern, Too Cute. Lyndy gave me a wonderful USA shipping price. The pattern plus shipping came to I believe $23.50 . I plan to use "Earl Grey" to make the cute little elephants.

When visiting Stitcbird , Make sure to check out their blog.

Swatches have been mailed- Please let us know if you do not receive them

2011-04-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

All swatches were mailed out on Monday and Tuesday.

We have been getting calls and e-mails from those who should have already received them, Though have not.

If you have not received your swatches , Please e-mail us to let us know.

erica@heavens-to-betsy.com

betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com

New Wools- Meet the newest members of our family

2011-04-06T14:01:00.000-07:00

Each one of our wools is like family to us. When we first started having wool milled- The first two mailers were classified by numbers only and It so did not jive with us.

It is so fun to give each wool a name~ It really adds to the personality of the wool

Monkey Bread

The Wizard

Walla Wall Bing Bang

Autumn's Calling

Chester

Jerimiah

LuLu

Montgomery

Nebraska

Ottis

Princess Buttercup

TicToc

Vanilla Twist

BlackBird

Oliver

If your interested in any of these wools you can visit our website here at Heavens-to-Betsy.com

I updated the blog roll, If you would like us to add you please leave your blog address in the comment section.
Don't forget to add us to your blog rolls :)
have a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious day!!
We were going to name one of the upcomming wools that , Just to get laughs :) and yes both mom and I can say it and say it three times fast, I swear it. Next time you see us ask us to :)

Oh Cindy! Can I hire you?

2011-04-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

After taking a class with mom ( Betsy) Cindy Wiltermood ( Considered family here among Heavens to Betsy) Sent along this beautiful pic of her hooked rug. Isn't it absolutely gorgeous?

Cindy, Can I hire you to take pictures? Great job with the camera too!

I haven't forgotten to add everyone to the blog roll,You can still post your blog to be entered into sponsoring a Heavens to Betsy giveaway.

We are hard at work getting all the mailers ready to go out this week!

If you are not sure if you are on our mailing list to receive swatches or know that you would like to receive samples of our New wools: You can e-mail your address to betsy@heavens-to-betsy.com to be added. Please do this soon as it gets hectic very quickly around here once samples go out.

And a quick reminder to be watching our friend Cheri at Back to Larkrise as she is sponsoring a giveaway with all NEW Heavens to Betsy wools. Its your chance to see a sneak peek of a few wools nobody has seen yet!

GIVEAWAY~ NEW WOOLS

2011-03-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

I don't often comment on blogs - So I understand but if you were going to comment on a blog this would be the post to do so.

Our Samples from the mill, They came on Valentines Day!!!We kept taking them out and ooohing

We love our wool, We love what we do and we love you.

We started out as a "Handmade America" and love to know that our wool is helping to carry on that role.

But Reallly.... Why should we have all the fun, Lets pass it on!

If you have a crafting blog and use our wool or would like to, We are going to let you get the FIRST peek at them and do a giveaway with them.

If your blog is on our blog roll then you are automatically in the running to be the blog we choose.

If you have a crafting blog and use our wool or would like to, let us know about it by entering it in the comments section and I will add you to our blog roll.

We have chosen ~ Back to Larkrise ~ for this mailers upcoming Heavens to Betsy wool giveaway. So make sure you are visiting her blog!

Swatches will be going out soon... I should be gluing right now....

Blog Love and a FREE pattern!

2011-03-27T05:31:00.000-07:00

As I may have mentioned before, I have some serious blog love for Jodie over at RicRac . Well guess what, She has woolley Love for Heavens to Betsy. Jodie is over in beautiful Australia where there are plenty of sheep but hardly any wools (?) So I may have sucked up a little bit by sending a present. Jodie in turn has sent the link for this too cute pattern, Totally FREE for you to enjoy.Thanks so much Jodie!
I am having trouble with the direct link not working but you can view and print the pattern by going to RicRac and clicking the free tutorial for little bird on the right hand side.

Mom's Hooking Style

2011-03-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

Its been way too long since I last posted, I apologize. There have been colds,Snow days, New wools delivered,Crashed Computers,New computers and hence an addiction to farming in farmville.

My Absolute favorite in any of mom's hooked rugs is the movement she creates with her wool. Here are few photos of what she has been up to that highlight her fantastic hooking style. This is such a great way to use wool that you have on hand that you really aren't sure what to do with!

These last two images are using our new black wool "Oliver" for the background. The images are not the greatest due to using my phone's camera, I will have better ones in the near future as soon as I get a new photo program loaded onto the new laptop - that I got for a steal at Staples for only $499 !

My New Bag

2011-03-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

No Pattern,No Plan,No Problem!

Until I decreased my Stitch Length way too low By Accident and put in the wrong size replacement needle but that is a story for another day.

Wool is Doris Day ~Please Don't Eat the Daisies~ Less than a half Yard available on our website

Coupons! at Jo Ann's

2011-03-06T09:29:00.000-08:00

Oooh! Hope you are signed up for Jo Ann's Newsletters!

They just sent a coupon filled newsletter for 40% off 4 regular priced items

and 1 50% off a regular priced item.

Hmmm... Shopping list:

Size 16/100 machine needles for sewing wool-My sewing machine will Love me for this

A Couple of Pillow Forms

and a couple of leather or suede purse handles

Fusible interfacing medium weight for purses - Although I just bought a 10 yd bolt on ebay, So I can hold off on this. The price was too good to pass up.

Not very exciting but I stocked up last year on quilt batting and a huge amount of Notions around Christmas.

And

if anyone is interested the best deal to be found on Stuffing:

Amazon has Morning Glory Polyfil Stuffing for $14.99 + Free Shipping on a 5 Pound box!

What is on your shopping list?

International Shipping - Easy Checkout added to Website

2011-03-02T17:00:00.000-08:00

Do You Live in : Australia, Japan, Germany, UK, New Zealand ?

We have added a section to our website for our friends outside of the United States and Canada.

~Canadians Please use website as usual and make the Canadian selection at checkout.~

Although we can not change the Shipping prices that the post office charges, We have made it much easier for you to order your Heavens to Betsy wool!

If you would like to get a quote for a larger order or group order, Please use the store contact button. We will work with you to get the best possible shipping.

New Wools added to the website

2011-03-01T17:49:00.000-08:00

We have added a few new wools to the website.

These are Website only wools and are not being sent out in a mailer.

Please welcome

Rip Van Winkle

Circus Circus

Powder Puff !

Doris Day

~Please Don't Eat the Daisies~

And Last but certainly not Least

Maple Sugar

A Craft-Licious Day

2011-02-26T14:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday started out fantastic! I found yardage of one of my favorite wools that I didn't even remember hoarding!!! It was like that feeling you get finding money in your winter coat pocket. So what do you think I did with it?

I hacked it up of course!

Saundra of Woodland Junction Shares

2011-02-25T16:14:00.000-08:00

Saundra of Woodland Junction is one of those people you immediatly "connect" with.

She always has the most beautiful hooked rugs on her frame to show and this week she shared how to "bleed" wool or basically dye wool without any dyes.

My personal faves of rugs hooked by Saundra:

A Magdalelna hooked by Saundra

Saundra is relatively new to blogging and I am sure she and Shadow would love to hear from you. You can visit her blog at this link

Saundra of Woodland Junction

Dye wool With Kool-Aid - Kids can do it!

2011-02-21T08:26:00.000-08:00

Heavens to Betsy

~DYEING WOOL WITH KOOL-AID~

Are the children home for Febuary break and

All Cooped Up With Nothing To Do?

When you go to the Grocery store be sure to pick up some

UN-SWEETENED Kool-Aid!

Kool-Aid can be used (safely) to dye wool.

Although you can use it to dye other fabrics such as cotton, Wool takes dyes easier.

This process is safe, eco friendly, requires no special equiptment and because Kool-Aid is a food dye, It will not contaminate any of your kitchen spoons or pots.

You can safely expect Cherry will give red, Grape will give Purple, Orange will produce Orange, Lemonade to produce a yellow, Blue Rasberry for a Blue and so on. For A more subtle look try overdying other colors than just white or Natural. If you place a blue over a yellow, The result should be green. A Blue over a red should produce a Purple. A Red dye over a yellow will give an Orange.

~ALL dyes are subject to different results due to a variety of reasons ( My water is different from someones in say Texas, The Climate, The fabric and so on)

So if your planning a project and it all needs to be the same color, My suggestion would be to do it all at one time.

~Heavens to Betsy Natural for overdying~

INSTRUCTIONS:

If you want quick results and are comfortable with using the oven or stove top skip down to Stove/Oven method

For a mottled or tie dye effect, Ignore this first step

Soak your wool for a good 20 minutes in cool water - This will help the fibers take the dye quicker and more evenly.

While you are doing this, Now may be a good time to lay newspaper or old sheets around your work area/Counter just in case and have the wee ones change into some play clothes.

Gathering your Dyes:

I am going to take you through a few different options, With heat and without.

The amount of Kool-Aid needed is subject to how much fabric you are intending to use, The process you choose and the fabric. Generally speaking~ I would say one package for a quarter yard. You can also use food coloring to add more pop! If you would like.

~Adding white vinegar to your mixture of water and Kool-Aid will help the fabric take the dye.~

Shameless plug for our Natural, Overdyeing wool:

Without Heat (Sunshine method)

In a large plastic ziploc baggie add water and Kool-Aid - Enough to cover your fabric ( you can also add a small amount of white vinegar to help the fabric take the dye). Add fabric then zip it closed. Play squish the fabric until you are afraid the bag is going to rip :-) Place in the sunshine for several hours (depends on how much sunshine you are getting that day and how hot it is).

Allow the bag and wool to cool, Then Rinse in cool water and remove excess water. Air dry or place in the dryer ( If you are fearless, Although the dye should be completly set, I wouldn't put it in with your favorite shirt ).

Easter egg / Tie dye method:

Place water, Kool-Aid and a good splash of white vinegar in a few dishes, Containers, Pots whatever you have available. Dip dishes make an excellent choice as you can have small amount of different dyes in each section and rotate the fabric.

Arrange the fabric so that the some of the wool is in one container and the rest in a different container. Rotate the wool to get all fabric saturated during the course of the day.

When you are happy with the results, Rinse the wool with cool water and dry or to further "set" your dye you can place the wool into the stove for 10 - 15 minutes on 150-200 degrees.

Stove/Oven method

two different methods:

Place your Kool-Aid, Water and some vinegar into a saucepan if using the stovetop or a pan if using the oven.

~Again, There is no exact formula it is based on how much fabric, What type of fabric and how much mottling you desire. The fabric is going to be more mottled if the water doesn't cover it all.~

Turn on the heat! and be amazed at how you can see your wool becoming more gorgeous! Your water will become clearer as the wool soaks it up.

Fiddle with your fabric using a long wooden spoon, So that it takes on the desired color and effect. Then Carefully rinse your wool with cool water and dry.

OVEN METHOD:

Artists beware, May be addictive!

Pre-Heat oven to 200-250 degrees. Grab a pan that is oven safe and has seen better days.

Fill a few different measuring glasses, dishes or glasses with your different color Kool-Aid dyes ( Kool-Aid, Water, small amount of Vinegar).

Place your wool into your oven pan. You can line the pan with foil if you must.

Pour your dyes onto your wool making patterns and mottling of your choice ( be creative).

"Cook" wool for 15-20 minutes,Then rinse and dry!

Heavens to Betsy Natural

Note:

Our Ancestors ( and my grandma ) used to use Beets, Carrots, Walnuts, Avacodos and berries to dye fabrics. Grandma ( Anne ) filled Mayonaise jars with dyes she made from natural foods and would save them to use at a later date.

No Way! A braided skull rug!

2011-02-18T16:13:00.000-08:00

For Anyone who may remember I (erica) have a bit of a love for all thing skulls as well as textiles including of course wool, So imagine my reaction as I came across the coolest Braided Rug ever:

Rug by Timothy Lile

And because I can't just leave you with one picture here are a few I found on etsy:

Books and sewing patterns to devour

2011-02-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

All books are linked to Amazon

And some of the most adorable patterns around:

Huck fin cap by Sew Liberated

Parsley and Beet by Jodie from Ric Rac

School Days Jacket by Oliver and S ( They also have the most gorgeous! cape in their new book that would look beautiful done in wool but I couldn't grab the pic )

Cloch Hat by McHats on etsy

Slipper by Shoeology ( I have this pattern, I just have not gotten around to using it although~ I have looked at it and the pattern is well thought out and detailed )

Wool Giveaway! on True Up

2011-02-16T17:53:00.000-08:00

Link Love

Kim at True Up is offering two half yards of Heavens to Betsy wool! Visit True Up at this link here for your chance to win!

True Up is a great blog for any crafter to stay up to date on all things textile! With inspiration for anyone with modern or vintage tastes to draw creative inspiration from.

I also simply have to encourage you to sneak a peak at one of my all time favorite crafting blogs

Ric Rac

Hosted by the amazing Jodie Carleton in Australia.

Her Plushies, Style and Personality shine through to inspire us to take joy and fun and always incorporate them into our everyday lives.

Sheep Shearing School ~ An Amazing video from Stuck in Vermont

2011-02-15T17:05:00.000-08:00

What an Amazing Video ! All about shearing sheep and the people who give us woolley goodness!

Contest! ~ Vintage on the Ridge Antiques!

2011-02-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

Just Received this from Sally and had to share it with everyone. Vintage on the Ridge is Giving Away $40. in Antique goodness at her etsy shop.

From Sally:

Love Affair with Vintage

I had to tell you about the contest we are running over at Vintage on the Ridge. If you like antiques and vintage, you just might want to pop over and check it out - A Love Affair with Vintage. The winner gets a $40 gift certificate to our vintage shop at Etsy! We are trying to build some link love and blog following with this one, as well. Hope you'll help us out & maybe YOU will win!
Now I gotta get back to my hooking! What are you working on?

~ Leave a comment on her blog~ and tell her what's on your frame right now!
More later . . . Happy Valentine's Day All!

FREE SHIPPING ~ Happy Valentines Day! ~

2011-02-11T17:47:00.000-08:00

FREE SHIPPING

Heavens to Betsy

Now until Midnight Feb. 14th

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

enter: funnyvalentine

in the discount coupon code at checkout

(U.S, Retail orders only)

~Heavens to Betsy~ Interview with Sue Spargo

2011-02-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

Follow the link Below for an interview and information on Sue Spargo

and

more details on kits, Patterns and workshops

~Heavens to Betsy~ Interview with Sue Spargo

Etsy Finds

2011-02-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

Those boots are a Pattern!

Nasty Weather And Save the Date

2011-01-31T18:40:00.000-08:00

The first fall of snow is not only an event, it is a magical event. You go to bed in one kind of world and wake up in another quite different, and if this is not enchantment then where is it to be found? JB Priestley

I totally agree with JB, Dont get me wrong...But enough with the white stuff already, We have things to do!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I would like to mention for those in OHIO,

June 18, 2011 is the date for the Kingwood Center hook in in Mansfield.

from 10-4. This years theme is “Baby Shower”. Everyone is to bring their first hooked rug. Peer judging will take place and winner gets a basket of wool for $75 value.
They will be auctioning off ‘has been hooking items”. Things people don’t want anymore, projects started and in need of completion & any rug hooking items. Proceeds to go to the Ashland Pregnancy Center.

ANYONE can donate, So please bring those items with you when you come.

If you will be visiting from out of town

The Hampton Inn in Ontario which is the next exit up the road west of Kingwood exit has been suggested to us for lodging.

~More details to come when the time gets closer~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I leave you now with a few snowmen pictures , So that We who will be covered in a blanket of snow tomorrow may see a bright side - STAY WARM -

Behind the Scenes

2011-01-29T14:32:00.000-08:00

Behind the scenes of Heavens to Betsy

Heavens to Betsy has been having wool milled for rug hookers and other fiber artists for quite some time now.

For us, Heavens to Betsy is what we truly enjoy and

We would love to share with you some of the process of our joy.

Please keep in mind, We are a small family business, Nothing fancy here!

The first Process is of course coming up with what wools to mill!

~Samples for the Mill~

The picture is not the best and that is because I am not allowed to give any sneak peeks!

We often take threads and put them to different patterns. The card at the top right is a finished sample that has been mocked up for the mill.

(do you recognize the wool? You would be correct if you said hot potato! those threads next to it are what we are changing. (ie. Take the blue thread and replace it with yellow and so on...)

By the way only the top row of the picture is affirmative for wools to come. We hmm,Haw and sometimes have to argue (nicely of course) our case against each other on which wools go in next.It is a long process! Mom has favorite wool (usually more primitive), Erica has Favorite wools ( usually more modern looking) and dad has his favorites too (The ones that he takes hours to put threads meticulously to)

Once the selections are made and everyone is satisfied -and made sure Erica hasn't traded one of theirs for one of her wools.

We send them off to the mill!

In about six to nine months we receive three yard samples of each of the wools.

Looks GREAT to me!

We confirm with our mill that they are Perfect and we love them.

After they are milled they send the wool to us on large rolls.

Wool is here! Yippeee!

This is empty compared to a couple of weeks ago!

Then come the samples, Lots and

lots of Samples

Over 900 of them! Thats alot of glue.

Dad starts to bolt the wool!

And next It is off to packing orders

And if Anyone gets hurt in the process

Heavens to Betsy

has there own Health Care Program!

Mom putting A band-aid on Dad :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Some Patterns Have been added to our website!

Be sure to Check them all Out :)

Have a Surprisingly Fun Day!

2011-01-27T04:28:00.000-08:00

Turn your volume on and smile

ATHA Bienniel update

2011-01-22T08:14:00.000-08:00

We can't tell you how excited we are about the 2011 ATHA Bienniel and apparently you are too!

The surrounding hotels are already Starting to fill up!!!!

The Bienniel is being held from October 19th - 22nd in Lancaster, PA

If you have not made your reservations yet or REGISTERED (needs to be by Sept. 20th !!!)

Now is the time to do so. You will find the forms to do so at the link above.

Make sure to have your cameras charged and your comfy walking shoes!

Cheeeese!

2011-01-20T18:34:00.000-08:00

The first picture is of Grace (Betsy's grandaughter), She usually helps us out by putting the labels on the envelopes (thats why they are sometimes a wee bit off :) ). The second image is coy,He is a Trouble Maker and does not help nearly as much as Grace does.

Mom was able to snap a few photos with her phone of the second delivery of the wool. We keep forgetting to do this, But it was FReeeeZing out, So she only got a few before she ran back inside :) How the driver can be in a t-shirt is beyond me?

Fun Photos

2011-01-17T07:20:00.001-08:00

While we are hard at work filling orders and getting the last of the samples mailed out(And gearing up for yet another upstate NY winter storm - hopefully we dont lose power or any windows this time)

We thought we would share a few sheep photos with everyone.

We plan on adding a photos page to our website. If you would like to submit photos of your projects, your stash, your hooking groups,Camp photos or other fun photos send them to :

erica@heavens-to-betsy.com

If you have a blog,Please send the link and your full name so I can put it with any submitted photos :)
Don't forget to add us to your Blog list!

REACH OUR NEW WEBSITE HERE

2011-01-15T10:30:00.000-08:00

Heavens to Betsy store The search engines have not quite caught up with us just yet. You can access our new website ~and all of our new wools~by clicking the image above.

If you would like to help us ~ Search us using your normal search engine (yahoo,google,internet explorer,AOL, ect.)

Using words that you would normaly use to find our website

~ Heavens to Betsy,Wool,milled wool,fabric,rug hooking~

~~~~~~~

When you get to our website make sure you sign up to receive our newsletters !

We do not want to send too many, But do want you to get all the News, Gossip,

Giveaways and updates as well as where we will be throughout the year.

If you have any suggestions for our website please write us! either comment below or use the contact button on our site. We want to hear from you! ~your ideas, thoughts and comments are what keeps us going.

IF you have any pictures of your wool stash, rugs or projects,your hooking groups, or your crafting space - send them to us and we will put them up on our website!!!!

~Feel free to send us your Blog Links so we can post them along with your pics~

Here is one of my favorite links for you to enjoy.

Sue Spargo's creativity and imagination are so inspiring!

Post links to your favorite blogs below- I need more to read until I finally get to the library to return my books :)

New Wools Are Up On The Website!

2011-01-12T13:49:00.000-08:00

The New wools are up on the website. Although, We will not be shipping until next week and orders will be processed in which they are received. We are waiting on the wool to arrive to send out the samples to everyone.

You are more than welcome to order if you can not wait until your samples arrive.

Heavens-to-Betsy

Wild and Crazy ! Sample to go out next week!!!!

2011-01-06T15:27:00.001-08:00

That is the only way to describe the past few weeks here We truly hope that you have had a very warm and safe holiday season. We also hope that you have been given time to recuperate from said holiday season!

As some of you may have noticed our website is down. We have switched hosts and we (read: Erica is) setting up an entirely new website! The new website will be easier to use ( for both you and me ) and it will also allow us more options. We will be adding more pre-made bundles to the website Too! Honestly - I always find it frustrating when shopping for fabric`typing in all
the selections` I just want it there in a bundle so that I can simply click buy now. What can I say ` I am a bit lazy, I have loads of wash,dishes and supper to be done and when I need a fix of fabric , I just want it. So, knowing you are just as busy and most likely feel the same way, We will definatley be adding plenty to the new site. Don't worry we will also still make sure to have the very popular P.Y.O ( pick your own ) bundles too.

The samples are almost done and ready to go out. We are waiting on the second truck of wool to arrive since we need a little bit more to complete all of them. WE HAVE 16 NEW WOOLS this flyer! plus five wools that have been re-milled ! Wahoo! Thats alot of wool! -and a lot of samples to glue 21 wools x 924 sets os samples to mail out-

Happy New Year everyone !!! Its going to be a good one

~erica~

Random funny picture

2011-01-03T17:16:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year ! Half the NEW wool is here!

2010-12-30T10:32:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of our barn overflowing with wool. This is only half of the wool!

We forgot to take a picture of the truck being unloaded, We'll try to remember next time.

This next picture is the machine used to fold the wool onto bolts. This is dad's (Eric's) job. When he starts bolting the wool, I will take another set of pictures to show how it works.

CONGRATULATIONS !!! Carmen ~ You Won

2010-12-18T05:31:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to Carmen Sutton!

E-mail us your mailing address (I believe we have it but want to make sure it is correct) and let us know what are your faves, Darks, Lights,Primitives or if you have a favorite Heavens to Betsy wool that you would love a piece of. reed1@mhcable.com

To receive Swatches of our milled wool

2010-12-15T10:02:00.000-08:00

Not on our mailing list to receive swatches of the wool we have milled?

Send us your name and mailing address and we will add you to our mailing list.

You can go to www.heavens-to-betsy.com and use the store contact button

or e-mail Erica at morn_glory@yahoo.com

or e-mail Betsy at reed1@mhcable.com

If you prefer to call, Our number is 518-851-2149

~Our swatches are free of charge~

We always update the website with our new wools once the samples go out in the mail. We will be continuing to offer our mailer special bundle~ A half yard of each wool, bundled nicely with twill tape at a savings. Which is only available until the first wool is out of stock.

Be sure to get your Gift certificates now while there is no shipping cost and you receive a free fat quarter!

~ A very nice present to yourself~

~Giveaway ~ Ending December 17th

2010-12-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

Giveaway ~2 pounds of wool ! I Will try to customize this weeks' winning remnant bag !

Enter a random comment below to win a personalized remnant bag.

~ A big Congrats to Kimberly , Last weeks winner. Please e-mail me with your mailing information - I am unable to access your e-mail address. ~

How is everyone doing?

We have finally narrowed down which wools are going out on our next mailer and you definatley won't be dissapointed! I would love to show you a sneak peak but mom wants it to "be a surprise" when you get the mailer. She says it would take away the WOW factor.

What do you think?

CONGRATS KIMBERLY !!!!!!

2010-12-13T07:24:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS KIMBERLY who posted:

Again Thank you Erica & Betsy for the chance to win wool, and also to get some good laughs!My best tip for Xmas this year is let your son in law put up and decorate the trees!For years the task fell to me. Husband and one or more kids would lug out the trees, and would do the garland...the rest was up to me!This year our new son in law who is an Air Force Pilot asked if he could "help" I think i put two ornaaments on each tree and he spent hours creating a masterpiece! He got a good look at our family traditions and the chance to use up some OCD energy(pilots are perfectionists!) and I didnt get burned out decking the halls!Favorite movie is a toss up Old school me loves White CHristmas ?Holiday Inn. With it mom loves ELF. I have seen it about 9 times and it still cracks me up!My second stress buster is to make sure no matter how crazy my days are to hook each day!Hope everyone is enjoying the anticipation of the big day!

Kimberly,Please e-mail me with your mailing info and we can get your wool to you by Christmas!

Let me know if there are any wools that you would like pieces of :)

morn_glory@yahoo.com

We have been super crazed here getting orders out, Getting ready for our January mailer and of course getting ready for Christmas. The days seem to go by so fast, Don't they?

Giveaway for week Dec.7th-12th 2pound remnant bag

2010-12-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

This weeks giveaway is now open

Actual 2 pound remnant bag photo will be put up tomorrow. It was freeeeezing today! And dad didn't start the pellet stove in the barn. If you would like to see any certain wools in this weeks giveaway~Let me know and I will try to add them!

Enter a random comment below to enter to win!

Some ideas for your random comment:

Holiday Stress management tips :)

favorite Holiday or old movie ~ I have a hard time choosing between Christmas in Conneticut and Home Alone

favorite quote

Do you have any funny habbits? ~ I like to keep my candy in the refrigerator, Mom likes to hideout in her car ( its quiet and warm and she gets WIFI for her ipad better in her driveway)

a few more photos

2010-12-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

A few more photos to share.... So as to post the new giveaway and keep it at the top of the page making it easy to access. I apologize if the one quilt offends anyone, My brother and I both have a weird love of skulls~ Must be the whole GOONIES generation thing :)

The first pic wouldn't rotate but it is an applique almost 2 foot long of a cat cut out of Three Amigos wool.
I plan to use it on the back of a quilt for my mother, For Christmas.

Whenever I ask mom what she would use a wool for , She always comes up with things I would never in my wildest imagination think of. So... Of course I just had to use a striped, Pinish colored wool for a cat!

The next couple of photos are of mom's quilt for Christmas.
I used about three of our remnant bags to make it (with the exception of a yard of Chuckles for the border) and still have some leftover to make a pillow and a bag! I haven't backed it yet, That is this weekends project. I apologize for the wrinkles, I had it folded away so the dog wouldn't lay on it :)

OK... The next photos are of my brother christmas quilt. Please don't be offended...

I Used the last bits of Coal Miner's Plaid to make the skull and cross-bone applique. I had a huge smile on my face at every step in making this quilt knowing my brother will love it!

I think I may make one for myself , Just not as large ( My sewing machine can't handle it. I had to have my husband hold and bunch the quilt while I did the actual quilting)

And of course in pink!

The last image ( That would not rotate , Urgh) Is of one of mom's and mine Favorite magazines by a long shot! The magazine is called Selvedge Magazine and is one of the very , Very few magazines that are worth the subscription price. It Is a U.K publication but if you visit their website and click subscriptions , There is a choice of what country you live in and that will take you to the correct pricing to receive your own copies here in the U.S.. I highly suggest visiting their website by clicking here .

Another good magazine that I enjoy is SEW HIP magazine. It is also a U.K. publication. ( You can find older copies on ebay usually.) It is loaded with fun and hip sewing and crafting projects. It is a really good magazine for people who like funky wearables and interestingly odd/modern projects.

The one thing that is drastically different about the U.K. magazines is there is not as much advertising in them.Or rather you don't notice it as much because you still get alot of content that isn't advertising, Which I highly appreciate with the rising cost of magazines.

A few photos to share

2010-12-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

Mom's hooked pillow
(To me its like a troll doll so ugly that its cute)

Since her kids are grown, She finally gets to have "her" Christmas Tree !

I believe she purchased the tree from Linda Owens, Who has an amazing Primitive shop in Kinderhook,NY. Every single item in Linda's shop is made in the U.S.A. !

CONGRATULATIONS SHERRY !!!!

2010-12-06T06:56:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Sherry from Sherry's Heart You "Finally" WON!

We will get your wool out to you today! Send an e-mail to me at morn_glory@yahoo.com verifying your mailing address, Please.

New wool for grabs to be added a little later in the day. We are hard at work in the barn getting orders out!

GIVEAWAY week Nov.29th-Dec 5th

2010-11-29T08:53:00.000-08:00

LOTS OF WOOL FOR GRABS !

This weeks giveaway is now open. Over 2lbs. of remnants

(including the last pieces of some early favorites!)

Post a random comment below to enter for your chance to win!

You can just drop in and say hi but

We would love to hear about the bargains you are finding, giveaways,coupons and such!

Did you stay home on Black Friday or brave going out?

Do you have a home-based buisness?

What is your favorite blog to visit?

~ Mine is sewmamasewblog.com ~ everyday they add new ,FREE sewing patterns

and craft ideas for Christmas.

CONGRATULATIONS !!! Twoives

2010-11-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

CONGRATS to twoives, this weeks winner !

The blog will be updated tomorrow with another giveaway, Keep entering for your chance to win!

Does anybody know of any other good give aways they would like to share?

or really good bargains?

I know Joanns fabric and craft store always sends e-mails with coupons which really come in handy. Mom and I got a large roll of quilt batting for 50% off! Yahoo

FREE WOOL ! week of Nov 22nd - 28th

2010-11-22T11:15:00.000-08:00

THIS giveaway is now closed , New giveaway to be posted tomorrow
Enter a comment below to win 2 pounds of Heavens to Betsy wool!

A different image of the actual wool being given away will appear tomorrow as I needed to pick up my daughter from school early (due to being sick). I did not have enough time to take a picture of another remnant bag - sorry. I can gaurantee You will be commenting to win at least 2 pounds of Heavens to Betsy wool though !

WOOLMAVEN ~ Please contact me at morn_glory@yahoo(dot)com with your address. There is not an e-mail address on your google page to contact you.

Leave a random comment below to win.

Some ideas for your comment:

What is or was your favorite Heavens to Betsy wool?

Would you like to see how we go about coming up with some of our wools?

Do you have a holiday tradition that you still carry out each year?

What are you working on?

or just drop in and say hi!

Please one comment per person but feel free to have a loved one enter for a second chance to win. Husbands note: If you win wool for your spouse this can get you serious brownie points, you may even get a home cooked meal!

CONGRATULATIONS! Woolmaven

2010-11-21T17:32:00.001-08:00

Congrats! to woolmaven , This weeks lucky commentor. Woolmaven please e-mail me so that I can verify your shipping address. My e-mail is morn_glory@yahoo(dot)com

We will have more wool to win posted on the blog tomorrow. You can still win, Don't give up!

We would love to see pictures of your projects. You can put them in our Flickr group. Flickr is a great way to share your photos and be inspired by others. Even a photo of works in progress or your Heavens to Betsy wool put to good use.

I loved the idea of garland with little scraps or samples you receive, What a great idea!

Has anyone made a tree skirt out of wool?

Mom's Christmas gift - Beginning stages

2010-11-21T06:24:00.001-08:00

Thought I would share one picture of a work in progress before posting the winner.

I actually have most of my blocks all sewn together and steamed/pressed. I am loving the way it is looking so far. I hope she will like it.

What mom has been up to:

2010-11-21T05:46:00.001-08:00

This is how mom's week started off. While laying peacfully and sound in their bed they woke to a tree branch going through their bedroom window and One of Their telephone poles was struck by lightening. It goes without saying that they had no telephone, No power and no internet ( even mom's ipad gets the worst wifi signal while at home).

Mom's house must be like the Bermuda triangle or something because anytime a storm hits it is their property that is always hit the worst. This particular storm that went through only effected about 1.5 square miles in their town.

I can't tell you what I had to do in order to bring her a morning cup of coffee as all roads surrounding their house were blocked off due to the down power lines. I didn't let that stop me though :)

WINNER WILL BE PICKED LATER THIS EVENING !

~Week Three Giveaway~ Enter comments below to win

2010-11-15T07:18:00.000-08:00

Week Three Giveaway!

Enter a random comment below for your chance to win.

Your comment could be about what you are working on, What you are doing for the Holidays, A tip you think others may benefit from, Your favorite "old" movie or actor, Favorite song at the moment, ect. OR just drop in and say Hi.

We have had a lot of feedback through our private email that others have loved reading the comments posted. It was really nice that you took the time to share, You brought smiles to alot of others.

We have a week 2 winner!!!

2010-11-14T15:11:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS ARLENE!

Your our week 2 winner

Glad you didn't have to sleep outside on your porch!

We had so much fun reading your true stories!

Thank you for adding some fun laughs to our week.

We truly, Truly wish we could send each one of you a box of goodies.

We appreciate you and love to hear from you.

Enter to win for week three!

CONGRATULATIONS ARLENE!

Please e-mail me Arlene so I can make sure I have your correct address.

My e-mail is morn_glory@yahoo.com

or you can use the store contact form on our website

scrap buster

2010-11-14T10:30:00.000-08:00

Before I post the winner later this evening I thought I would share a little something. My husband brought home a huge trash bag of sheets from the hospital a few days ago ( don't worry they are clean). I am in the process of making confetti out of them for pillow stuffing. I am planning to make pillow forms with a couple by simply sewing two squares together then stuffing them with the confetti and sewing them closed.
I thought I would share as it is a great way to get rid of old sheets, pillow cases, the husbands tacky shirts,dingy curtains ect.
You could also use your wool scraps and throw in a handful or two of lavender!

Week two ends tomorrow

2010-11-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

We don't see many husbands or loved ones entering for another chance for you to win and for them to score brownie points.
Hint! Hint !

next project

2010-11-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

just found this pattern on etsy, you can get it on etsy at this link click here for pattern on etsy
This is so going to be my next woolley project ( as soon as I get Christmas projects finished ) . Arent they so Cute?
I am going to have to make a pair out of Wildflower of course ( my favorite wool that mom won't have re-milled unless lots of people ask for it, See jacket below made of Wildflower) and maybe a pair out of lone ranger and penelope.

Too Cute

GIVEAWAY FOR WEEK 2 STILL GOING ON ( WINNER WILL BE PICKED ON SUNDAY EVENING , SEE POSTS BELOW TO ENTER)
I believe it is three posts down. We are loving your stories!!! Don't worry if you can't thinnk of a true story you can simply add a random comment and be entered

Little projects by mom and I

2010-11-11T12:50:00.001-08:00

Envelope closure pillow made from Lil Bo Peep. ~We have this wool available, It just has not gone out on mailer or on the website yet. ~ This method is so easy. Here is one link to a video tutorial to make your own. I was going to add circle appliques with my machine but my daughter wanted it just the way it was. You can either use a zig zag stitch around appliques or leave a raw edge by sewing just inside the piece your sewing on.

This is a kite "rug" drawn and hooked by mom that she gave to Grace. It is one of Graces favorite items made by mom. It is so fun and such a great concept. It looks fantastic hanging on her wall too! Not to mention Clean! ( she cant get to it up there )

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

A BIG Congratulations to Jo Ann Mullaly on the success of her two books , Wool Crazy and Crazy at Home Plus her featured article in Quilt and more. Wishing you continued success, Your crafting is an inspiration to us all. May you also find all the antique cupboards that mom doesn't !

There is a link on the right to visit JoAnn's blog ,Wool Crazy, You can also click here .

Lesson 101 when making garments with wool

2010-11-11T12:17:00.001-08:00

Besides pre-washing your wool before sewing there is another very important step when sewing clothing with wool.

Know the right and wrong side of your fabric

Both sides are pretty and I didn't think it would matter any. When quilting or sewing with solid cottons it does not matter. Who is really going to know, Right?

Well it turns out you need opposite sleaves and jacket panels :) (duh,Erica) Needless to say Every single seam in the jacket I made for my daughter needed seam ripping at one point or another. Lesson learned, I now will always place a flower pin on the right side to "label" it.

I got it done though! using Amy Butler's little splashes raincoat pattern ( I used size 10 for my seven yr. old, It is a little big but at least she won't grow out of it too soon). I was amazed at how well the sleaves and pleated pockets came out considering it was my first attempt at either. Although again I seam ripped everything at least once and had to make a second sleave and right front panel including another pocket as they were on the incorrect side of the wool and wouldnt work. I also had to seam rip when I put BOTH front panels with the armholes as if the were the neck, Yeesh. All in all, A good pattern to have. I may even attempt to make more to put on Etsy As soon as I figure a different way to attatch the belt. Any suggestion besides making loops with thread would be helpful. They didn't last an hour.

Loved! making the covered buttons with the wool. You can buy the button covering sets at most craft stores. They would look great on a bag or to just snaz up a pair of jeans.

Week two of FREE WOOL every week till Christmas!

2010-11-08T06:35:00.000-08:00

This week's giveaway has been won, Congrats Arlene. See newer posts for current giveaways

Week two! Over two pounds of remnants!

To enter this weeks drawing leave a random comment below or tell us your "true story" by pushing the comment button below ( you will need a google account). Mom and I went to rug camp together once and one woman everytime she told a hillarious story that happen to her she would start and end it by saying "true story" mom and I have since done the same thing.

To start this week off, Here is mom's "true story"

True story ~ Mom used to be so scared of driving over bridges ( She has since conquered her fear and now travels all over the U.S.- Including hook-ins of 100 or more guests, Just ask her if you would like her to come to yours). Her fear was so bad that she would have to have to keep from closing her eyes! and be careful not to pull the steering wheel off.

Well one day she took a trip deciding to conquer her fear: Going over a LARGE FOUR LANE highway bridge mom in the middle of the bridge decides she just can't do it and procedes to make a U-TURN smack in the middle of the bridge. Cars beeping their horns behind her she hightailed all the way back home. True Story

Erica's "true story"

True story - I had my adorable mutt and child with me in the car when I decided to stop by mom's house one day. We left sanford (our dog) in the car while Grace and I ran in to say hello. I left the keys on the driver's seat as per usual. We stayed for maybe 10 minutes and chatted. When I went to get in the car, Sanford greeted me by jumping on the front seat before I could open the door and in process pushed the lock button on the door. Darn! Okay, First I tried to get him to obediently do the same thing and unlock the door, No such luck. So; I go inside and call my husband -who is uccustomed to these type of things happening by now- and he says he will bring the spare key but it will take him at least 20 minutes.( Mom and I are laughing hysterically at this point). While Sanford is watching us laugh he is still on the front seat and of course hits the car ALARM on my key chain ! - Have you ever heard those alarms, They are loud! For 15 minutes all of my mom's neighbors heard was the sounds of a very loud car alarm and us laughing and saying "I'm gonna pee my pants" - Sanford was completely fine by the way but he doesnt get in the front seat anymore. My husband ( Rick ) has just another story to tell the guys- Lucky guy. True story