We love Mattie too. She's actually Steve's dog. Mattie adopted Steve. When him and his ex were going to split up it was the only thing an argument was going to happen over. So we share custody of her. We have her for about 2 weeks then she goes to her "other" home. Vacations and stuff are worked out so she never has to go to a kennel when we travel.

Yes, she's a very well loved member of our family. I tried to get the cats to love on the blanket too but they wanted nothing to do with it.

I've only been knitting for about 2 years now. I got the "craft" gene from my grandmother so pretty much anything I try I can do. It's much easier than it looks. It's a matter if just following the instructions without double thinking them.

One day when we meet in person, I'll show you. That is if I'm not too busy ignoring you and playing with the baby. :-)