As we approach the new year it seems that time is slipping away at an incredible rate. Children and grandchildren grow up so fast, tatting patterns come to mind and get written down, tatted, and shared with friends. Families and friends enjoy good times and get each other through the difficult times.

SO MUCH LACE - SO LITTLE TIME!!!

I still haven't started the bobbin lace bookmark I wanted to finish this year, I did crochet a baby blanket for our new grand daughter, Jenna. And a big girl blanket for her big sister, Rachel was completed too. I did this and that, and all in all, it was a good year filled with blessings, and joy.

I think what I wish to share with you today isn't a photo of tatting, and not even a pattern. But, some of the neat things I have discovered this year.

Here is my top 10 cool things of 2006:

• Best thread for demonstrating or making models of tatting:
  
  Braiding Cord - may be found at Wal Mart, Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Jo Ann's, etc.
  100% cotton, in packages of 3 colors, 12 yards each mfg in China contact
  Sulyn Industries Coral Springs FL 33065
  
  This comes in a variety of coordinated colors, and has some body to it so it holds its shape unlike other softer cords that I have seen being used when demonstrating tatting. Try it, it is awesome!!!
  
• Best place to look for great books:
  
  Half Price Books - they buy out lots of great books, and constantly get different books in. I bought a bobbin lace book, and a tatting book there this year, in addition to lots of great reading material.
  
• Best entertainment while doing tatting:
  
  I enjoy the MP3 player I bought at Ink Stop about a month ago. It is a 2 GB USB flash drive that will store both my computer files and music. The great thing about this player is that it doesn't require any special software to transfer music or data files, just copy and paste from my computer. Price was about $60, compare that with all the more expensive personal music systems available and it's a real "bang for the buck" deal!!!
  
• Best computer accessory:
  
  Earlier this year I bought a 19" flat screen monitor from Sams Club, and it has proved to be an excellent choice. Scepter is the mfg. The picture is clear and makes working on the computer a pleasant experience.
  
• Best Restaurant:
  
  Without a doubt, Jack Stack is the best!!! http://jackstackbbq.com
  Our son, Jamie, asked us to check out Kansas City barbeque when we moved here. We tried a lot of them, but if you love barbeque this is the one you have to try! You can order online or from their catalog, but if you're ever in the area you have to go there and try their breaded mushrooms and onion rings.
  
• Best place to buy gasoline:
  
  Grocery stores that have filling stations. Kroger stores have a great selection and good prices, and they also offer money off on gasoline purchases with their shopping cards based on your grocery purchases.
  
  I filled up yesterday at the Dillons food store (a Kroger affilliate) gas station that is just a block from our home, and with the Kroger plus card I got $0.10 off per gallon. Whatever the current price of gasoline, buying groceries gives me a lower price at the pump.
  
• Best web presence provider:
  
  I have had my website with Zebrahost.net for several years. For $4.95/month it's a great buy. Their service is reliable, affordable, and they have always been great to deal with in every way. Dan and I are both computer geeks. It's nice to NOT have to do all the technical stuff, and still have good service.
  
• Best Motivation (excuse) to do more tatting:
  
  The 25 motif challenge that Sharon is doing has been a real pleasure. I have enjoyed doing 25 new designs on the same basic theme, and much more than that, I have enjoyed seeing the tatting that everyone else has done. 100 motif challenges seem a bit too daunting, but anyone can tat 25 of something in a year. New tatters may think that their tatting isn't as perfect as those of us who have been doing it for awhile, but I enjoy seeing their work, and often I learn from seeing what others have done. Everyone was a beginner at some time! I'll let you know when I get perfect at anything! There is no such thing as a mistake in tatting, just the beginning of a new design.
  
• The best thing about the online tatting community:
  
  By far the one thing that has kept me sharing patterns on the internet is the support, friendship, and caring that nearly everyone who tats and is online provides for each other. When one individual faces a challenge, be it health, relationship, financial, or emotional, the community rallies in support, each in their own way. Sending "good thoughts", prayers, and even designing a special pattern to show that you care is something we all can do for each other.
  
  Wally, I really enjoyed your Maltese Heart. And, I do remember your three treasures. I pray that you will be comforted and know that we all love you. I learned to tat the Maltese rings from your instructions. Thank your for sharing! Now, what can I do with that technique??? Hmmmmm.......
  
• My favorite tatter:
  
  You.
  
  If you are reading this, you are my inspiration, my motivation, my favorite tatter.
  
  May you have a very happy, blessed, prosperous New Year filled with fun, and adventure in learning new techniques and patterns!!!