4thelovesof

Trying to Come Back

2011-01-31T12:12:00.007-05:00

Well, where to start. Have to say, that we are glad that 2010 is gone. In a lot of ways, it was a really hard year. Things are starting out a little difficult, but will swiftly be returning to a state that will be easier to live in!! I know that all sounds pretty criptic, but there is just too much to even write about. I am trying this blog again, but much of my absence last year were due to computer issues. I will never buy another Dell again. I am on that now, so please be patient, and hopefully soon I will have a new computer and this will be easier. It is quite a task to update this on my current computer. Having said all that, I realize that I have probably lost a lot of my faithful readers, so if your new to my blog, please leave me a message, and if you are an old friend, bless you for sticking around!! :) I have I guess two big things to really talk about, then I will just do a small photo montage, of all my knitting, (which has been quite numerous!). After what happen to our little Mia in August, I really wasn't in a hurry to get another dog, and if you aren't a dog lover you won't get this, but I knew I would know when the right dog came along. Well, Thanksgiving weekend, we welcomed Zoe into our family.(Cute picture that is supposed to be here will have to wait, more computer issues. Did I say how much I hate Dell).

She is half ShizTzu and half Lhasa Apso. She will probably be a little bigger than Mia, but she is adorable, and has fit into our family so well. In fact, I told my DH that if I believed in reincarnation (which I do NOT), I would swear Mia is in there somewhere!! Just some of the little habits she has is eearily like Mia. But we are enjoying her for who she is and she has been a delight!! Plus, she's cute as ever!! :) I have also been knitting up a storm over the holidays. I was asked by several friends to make these cute crocheted hats and the little detachable flowers. I was really "pumpin" them out there for a while. Right now, I have been asked to make a shawl for a charity auction at the end of February. Will post picures and let you know how that all turns out later. For now, thanks for reading and visiting my blog, and here are some photos of the end of our year. Please stop back by. Thanks, Suzanne

Catching Up!

2010-08-30T10:31:00.008-04:00

Hi there!! Remember me? Its been a while, but I have lots of busyness to account for my absence. First, I had computer issues most of the summer. I even spent some time this morning visiting most of my favorites, because I couldn't even do that. Anyway, problem seems to be solved, and I will try to catch me up with you all. After the 4th of July, things were just nuts. My Dad had surgery the middle of July, and that turned out wonderfully, I think I did mention that in my last post. We spent a weekend the first of August at my SIL beautiful home,
and did some relaxing.
I pretty much floated in the water and read!! I did stick some knitting in there too. Then on August 13th and 14th, we went to my folks and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary!!! We kept everything pretty low key, they didn't want a big party, so we played games, my neice Lindsay tried on Mom's dress, and then on Saturday night, we had a delicious meal at Tippecanoe Place, which is the old Stutebaker Mansion. Very beautiful place. It was very nice, to just "be" as a family, not have a real mission, and to just hang around, play games, and laugh, which we did!! It really was a fun weekend.
Not to spoil the happiness of that wonderful celebration, but that very same weekend, ended up holding emmense saddness for us. On Friday, our little dog, Mia was fine, and due to a freaky, auto immune disease, she was gone by Monday mornning. For whatever reason, her body started mass producing white blood cells, and killing all her red ones. She kept getting more yellow(due to the lack of oxygen in her blood) and more lethargic as the weekend progressed. I have had other dogs, but I can't even tell you with words, how much I miss her. She was such a true companion, with me everywhere I went, as she has left a huge void in our home, and in my life.

Amazing what 8 pounds of fluffy little dog can do. We miss her very much.
So as not to leave you on a sad note, my garden is in full harvest. My beans are just about done, and the zucchini as well. I harvested quite a few potatoes on Saturday, and have lots of tomatoes still coming. Kids are also gearing up for school. Ashleigh started her second year of college, and the boys start after Labor Day. Eric has already had one football game. Guess that is a wrap up of our busy summer. Hope yours was relaxing. Thanks as always for stopping by.

Update

2010-07-06T10:08:00.009-04:00

I just realized that you all saw the very early stages of my new gardens. Well, here are some updates. Thanks to some nice warm spring temperatures, and some nice rainfalls, my garden has just boomed. The first two pictures are of the gardens around early May, the next two are more recent, look at my potatoes, who knew they got so tall? Also, I was very glad that I planted my peas next to a 6 ft fence, because they have well gone up and over!! I have tons of peas! :)

This next picture is of the beautiful sunset at Grand Haven, Michigan over the 4th of July weekend. We spent kind of a quiet one this year. My folks came up, that's them at Grand Haven. They are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this August, and are such a good example of a godly marriage. Also, my Dad will be having surgery next Monday, for an abdominal aortic aneursym. Please pray for him. Thanks!!

The sunsets at Grand Haven were especially beautiful this weekend, and we finished the weekend back at Grand Haven with our friends Dale and Marisol!! Yes, lest you think I would have no mention of knitting. I have several things in the works. A pair of summer socks, a dishrag, always a dishrag, and I am test crocheting a summer totebag for Yasmin from Kuwait, on Ravelry!! How fun!! Pictures of all that, will probably have to wait until after my Dad's surgery. Until then!! God bless, and thanks as always for visiting!!
Suzanne

Let the Gardening Begin!

2010-04-26T12:11:00.010-04:00

Hi Everybody!!
I am so excited that gardening season is upon us!! We have had a very interesting, but nice spring here in Michigan. On March 31 and April 1st, we actually slept with our windows open!! It was 80 degrees!! I don't believe I've ever done that!! However nice, I do know that it was too hot too fast, and would not last. It didn't, but it did give way to a nice spring with lots of blooming going on!. I also have added (thanks to my DH and Son #2) three more gardens!! They are raised beds, two are 12x4's and one is 6x4. I would have liked them 12x6's but there was a little miss communication(translated, they didn't really listen to me!!). Shhhh don't tell them I said that!! :) My sons Greg and Eric built them for me, and actually shoveled in all the dirt while I was at work. Thanks to all my guys!! :) Having these extra beds allows me to plant some things that I simply have not had room for, also will allow me some crop rotation in the coming years.
I planted peas, garlic, shallots and brussel sprouts for the first time, oh, and potatoes. These are already in the ground. I will also have room for beans, and Swiss chard, which I am very anxious to try. I will have more room for more herbs, like Basil that I use a lot of!! Here are some pictures of me and my DH laying out the grids with string.

I also got lots of lettuces planted!!
I have been knitting. Made some more of those baby bell bottom pants, but can't find the pictures. Made them in a pretty chocolate brown with a cute little pink onesie. Made a nice little gift. Our church seems to be a baby factory!! I'm sure not drinking the water!! :) I finally finished my Circle Socks. Last August, DH and I went to Wisconsin and found a beautiful yarn shop in an old bank. I found some Ty Dy Sock yarn by Knit 1 Crochet Two, in the color mineral. I love it!! Wanted to do Jaywalkers, but I think this yarn was too splitty so I saw these Circle Socks on Ravelry and thought that would work better. I do like this pattern, and modified the instep with a diamond decrease. Not original idea, Lilia on Ravelry came up with it and it works out beautifully!! Thanks Lilia!! I also modified the toe, not sure what you call it, but you end with the kitchner stitch, which I love. The original pattern calls for the Star Toe, which I do not love. So, I am all in all very happy with these.
If you read my Ravelry project page, you will see the many issues I have had with these socks. Knitter problem, not the pattern!! :)
Onto the other sock!! Might actually make a little pair of flip flop socks, (see Ravelry). We attend a church family camp in June, and they might just be the thing for those early morning trips to the bath house!! Hope you all are having a wonderful spring!! More knitting and gardening pictures as they come!! Thanks as always for visiting. Please leave a comment!! I love to hear from you!! Blessings, Suzanne.

I have no idea!!

2010-03-09T09:05:00.011-05:00

Now that's a title!! Could that possibly mean that I haven't done this in sooooo long, that I totally forgot how? Well, hopefully not totally!! I have really been doing a lot, much of which you'll see in a moment, but life is just too busy. Besides working, and family, I am teaching a Precept Bible Study class, which really takes a lot of study time, and then I am also doing Beth Moore's Esther bible study in my Sunday School class. I have been participating in a reading program (I work at a library, and no we don't get to read a work!! :) ). All that takes a lot of time, and it seems I am a bit tired all the time!! But alas, I have been knitting. There is always time to squeeze that in!! I started the beginning of the year all excited, that I could pump out a few socks for me!! And maybe even a new purse. Then I found out a dear friend of ours, who served in Iraq during one of the more difficult times, is expecting. Well, that put me into full baby mode!! I searched and searched for the cutest things, and I think, thanks to Ravelry, found quite a few!! Here we go. First, are the cutest little baby pants on the planet. I will be making lots more of these, they are really quite simple, and fast to make. The pattern is well written
I used some Caron simply soft, and they turned out quite well. The next item is a little thing the book calls a singlet. I call it a vest. I got it from the Luxury Yarn One Skein Wonders book. The pattern looks like it has a lot of steps, but is super easy and quick. I used Patons Baby Bamboo, and the look of the finished project is very professional looking. I will make this again as well. The little flower, which you saw on the pants, this vest, and will see again, is actually from this pattern. Then I made the cutest little rattle EVER!! I(remember I work at a library) saw a new book at work, and sort of quickly glanced at it. I saw this bunny rattle, and having made some toys before thought they are often a little harder and very time involved. Well, this is not. The book is latest by Erika Knight, and is called Natural Nursery Knits!! I have several of Erika's books, and this one will be next. This rattle was so easy and quick, and the patterns are so well written. She has some adorable things in this book. You really should check it out!! Lastly, are the little shoes. The pattern is by a french gal named Pruline. I found the pattern on Ravelry, and it was totally in french, but so simply written, that it is easy to translate. She did her shoes with a really fine gauge yarn, but I used a size 8 needle and CottonTots yarn for mine, and again the flower from the singlet pattern and VIOLE. The cutest shoes!! These really are simple. I also made a couple of hats, the pattern was found through Ravelry, but was from the Crochetville Forums. It is a simple crochet construction, I made two, one(ivory) using the Patons Bamboo again, and the other using some Yarn Bee Sweet Delight because it was in pink camo.
The whole gift package looks like this;
I hope she likes it. I sure had fun knitting and crocheting every stitch. As always, I thank you for visiting, and hope you come back soon. I will try not to take so long to post.
Suzanne

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-07T09:04:00.012-05:00

I know, better late than never!! What a whirlwind!! I hope each one of you had a blessed holiday season with family, friends, and celebrating the birth of Christ!! I decided since I have been so bad at posting, I would give you some eye candy!! I realized that I haven't put all my recent projects on this blog. I have had more computer issues this fall, which makes it difficult to post pictures, but I will try to catch you up. As for upcoming events, I am excited to be starting two new things in the coming weeks, I am taking a Beth Moore study on Esther!! Should be an excellent study, as it always is with Beth!! Then in February, I will begin teaching Ephesians in Precepts, which if you don't know is a Kay Arthur study. The Precept study is a lot more work than the Beth Moore study, not only because I am teaching, but it is just very detailed and goes back to the original Greek and Hebrew!! I love it, eventhough it requires many early mornings of study time. I learn so much!! I will keep you all updated, and if you've never done either study, I would challenge you to try one or the other or hey....BOTH!!! :)
We had a delightful Christmas season, with family, and friends. Alex and Anna returned from their honeymoon in Maui, and are doing great in their new apartment. She has it decorated so cute!!
Alex is officially off deployment!!! And received a special commendation while in Iraq. We, of course, are very proud of him and are grateful to the USMC for recognizing some of his unique abilities!! This is one of the Christmas presents this year, its a felted tote for my Mom. She wanted something to carry her Bible in, and it fits perfectly!! I used the Falling Leaves Pattern from Classic Elite, and the yarn was Cascade 220!! Love both. The pattern is real easy, and by pulling the new color yarn underneath the stitch, it creates that real straight line!! Very cool!! I also did a scarf for mom.
I used an Alpaca in ivory. The yarn is on my Ravelry notebook, sorry, I can't remember what is was now, but it was very soft and nice to work with. I haven't done a lot of lace work, but this was a fairly quick knit!! I also made a quick crocheted hat for my neice. She looks so cute in hats!! Made a different one for my nephew too, but not sure that picture is loaded. If it is, I'll post it. I am going to leave you with several pictures from the past month. As always thanks for visiting. I do visit your blogs, but have been real behind in lots of things due to all these computer issues. Happy 2010! Hope to hear from you!!
Suzanne

This is a cowl that I finally finished, started it over a year ago!! I love the color and the pattern is linked on my Ravelry page.

Wedding

2009-12-01T10:09:00.012-05:00

Well, the big day finally arrived on November 28.2009. Everything went very well, and everyone looked beautiful. We were blessed with a 50 degree and sunny day, which in Michigan in late November, rarely happens. The kids are off to Hawaii for their honeymoon. I think I will let the pictures speak for themselves. Enjoy!!

Slacker!!

2009-10-27T09:45:00.008-04:00

Actually, I'm not. We have been very busy with Alex's being home, and the upcoming wedding. And then even though I have no picture, I wasn't knitting at all when he came home. A few days before his arrival, I was wrestling with my 13 year old (who is acutally taller than Alex) and I ended up with a badly sprained ring finger, on my right hand. I had it in a brace for 3 weeks. I really did try to knit with it on, and I realized that I do use that finger more than I thought. So, no knitting. Argh!! That was tough! Did get a lot of reading done though!! :) Having Alex home is such a joy, he is so happy and giddy. Just glad to be home I guess!! :) After my finger healed, I had a few dishrags to finish for Anna. Her first shower, (given by my SIL Maribeth and Melia) was Sat. October 17th.
I was a beautiful sunny day ( one of the very few we've had). I knitted her 12 dishcloths. One for every month. For example, Jan - snowflake, Feb - pink hearts, March - green shamrock, etc. I think you get the idea. I wrapped them, actually rolled them into toilet paper tubes, and then wrapped them like candy, and put numbers on them, so she would open them in order, and put them into a cute little box.
It turned out quite cute, and she loved them.

I wish I would have taken pictures of each one, but I ran out of time. I do have them all written down though. We have been busily doing all sorts of little final details for the wedding in 5 weeks. Picking up extra hours at work hasn't helped with the knitting. Then, Christmas is right around the corner. We'll see! I did finish Lydia's shrug.
She won't actually wear it down the aisle, but I tried it on her before I put the sleeves in, and it fit her great. The pattern was from Knitting Pure and Simple, and is a size 4. All I need to do is block it and get a pink button for the top. I made the sleeves 3/4 as it called for only little cap sleeves.
That won't work for Michigan in November!! I sure hope our weather changes. Seriously, no sun, and lots and lots of rain. If we get as much snow as we have rain this fall, we will be buried this winter. I hope all of you have been good. I appreciate so much the sweet comments from my faithful readers. I see some of you are as behind as I am. As always, thanks for visiting, and come back soon. Hopefully with all that is going on around hear, I will try to do better at updating everything!!!
Suzanne

He's HOME!!!!

2009-09-14T10:25:00.009-04:00

I cannot even begin to put into words what this past week and weekend have been like. We knew last week that Alex would probably be leaving the sandbox, but of course, didn't know exactly when. Late last week at 2:00 in the morning, we got a call from him that he was in America!! Then on Thursday morning, he called with the time he would be home. We headed to the base late Friday night, Our Marines rolled in around 2:00a.m.!! Those last few moments were the hardest. We were in a gym, and they closed all the doors, had us facing one door and the sargeant said that he was leaving through these doors,
and that the next people to walk through would be our Marines. I am sure in a normal state of mind, that those next few moments were just that, but it seemed like an eternity!!
Once the door opened, the crowd just went wild. Of course, they all look a like, and you are frantically searching for your boy!! Anna found him!!!! She ran so fast, all I saw was a blonde blurr,
and she almost knocked him over!!!! To say we were happy is such an understatement!!

We are so thankful to our great God for his constant protection and His faithfulness!! Here are a few more pictures of the happy reunion!!
The next day, we through an Open House for him. We had a lot of faithful friends and relatives attend. It was a good day. We were only going on less than 4 hours of sleep, so by late afternoon we were all dragging. Poor Alex still doesn't know what time zone he's in. Sunday was church, and they had Alex say a few words, and then prayed a prayer of thanksgiving for his safe return.
Our church is filled with faithful prayer warriors!! You too, have been faithful, I know many of you have prayed for Alex, and asked about him on more than one occassion, and for that I am very grateful to each of you!! Thanks for visiting! God is Good!!!
Suzanne

Oh so Much!!!

2009-08-17T14:51:00.012-04:00

Where do I start? First, just got back from a weeks vacation!! Had fun tubbing (well at least the kids did)
, and boating, etc.

All the fun water things. I floated and read!! :) Also did some knitting...got my first toe up socks done
, also got my first sock done for a test knit that I am doing on Ravelry. The pattern is called Soybean Socks. Very fun and this pattern I do believe is up now, and you really should get it!! Christabel did a wonderful job, and this is a delightful pattern, and goes really quickly. It was fun to be a test knitter!!

My husband and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary on August 11th. We got away for a couple days. We went to Door County, Wisconsin.
Very quaint small towns. Just a very relaxing couple of days. I really should be doing laundry, but alas, it isn't going anywhere.
We are trying not to rush summer,(especially since it just got here...weather wise), but Alex will be home so soon!!! Hopefully I will share that in pictures!! For now, just trying to enjoy these last lazy days of summer!! Thanks for visiting!!
Suzanne

How Many ways can you knit a Sock???

2009-07-25T10:37:00.004-04:00

Well, I have done it 3 ways, and I know there are more!! I finished these green socks not long after the 4th holiday, just haven't had time to post them.
They were my first sock using Magic Loop!! They were done cuff down, which is how I have always done socks. Now....ta.da!!! My first toe-up sock using Magic Loop!! I also used a new cast on with this, it is Judy Becker's Magic Cast on as demonstrated on You Tube by Cat Bordhi. She is a riot, if you've never watched her...her story while doing the demo is a bit annoying, but it really is funny and you do remember.
This shot is where I am, almost done with the gusset, (easier going toe up by the way)!!!
These socks actually might be a tad to big, but since they are my first toe up, I am just going with the process, I will either try to shrink them, or find someone who has a bigger foot than I do, which perhaps will be my daughter...hmmm...maybe a Christmas present in the making!!! I am truely amazed however, how quickly these go compared to dpn's...amazing!!! :)
Oh I am going to be a test knitter!!! Never done that before!! Found a pair of socks on ravelry, and they were beautiful. Christabel can be found on ravelry, or at her site, cseneque.wordpress.com. She is from Perth, Australia, and she is going to let me test knit these beautiful socks!! She has done them in a pretty varigated color, I may try them with a solid, we'll see. I'll keep you informed as to my progress!! :) I'm so excited!!! Other than that, our summer.......wait.....oh ya...Michigan isn't having summer this year, we are the land that summer forgot!! No lie, this is the coldest July on record...it was 52 here the other evening, and has been rainy...shall I go on!!
Talked to Alex the other day, and he got official word of when he'll be home, I can't really post that, but do know that it's sooner than my ticker!! We are so excited!! So is he!!!
Guess that's it, as usual, thanks for visiting!!
Suzanne

Socks and Magic Loop

2009-07-11T08:48:00.005-04:00

Okay, I have posted a few socks that I have made here, each one so far done with dpn, which I do like......However, I just decided to teach myself how to do socks with Magic Loop! Oh WoW!!! I can't believe how much faster it goes.
Now mind you, I only did one at a time......but after I do this a couple times, I think I will try to teach myself two at a time.
I really want to teach myself toe up first. Its the cast on I seem to have trouble with, but the internet is so helpful for this!! All you need to do is google something and You Tube probably has it. Some are better teachers than others, but if you watch a couple different ones, you pick up different things, or the camera angle was closer, etc. Here is a picture of my first sock, the second one is just started on the needles. I pretty much did this one over the holiday weekend, but I didn't sit and knit constantly. Would never have gotten the dpn done this fast. I am just amazed. Maybe someday I can keep up with friends, like Leah from the knitting giraffe. She does amazing socks, and has them done so quickly!! :) I got so excited, that my LYS was having their sidewalk days....still are come to think about it.......hmmm....that I went and bought two more skeins,
at half price to do some more socks. Do I have sock yarn in my stash you ask? Why yes,
but doesn't a knitter always need to get more.........me thinks so!!! :)I hope you all had a relaxing 4th....we had a wonderful time at my SIL house. Nice and relaxing. Please continue to pray for Alex...he will be coming home soon, but as the time draws near, he is almost more homesick........it was hard for him to have us all together and him not be there over the 4th. I know many of you are praying, and I sincerely know that that is what will get him through this, and from a mothers heart, I thank you most sincerely!!
Suzanne

Happy Birthday, America!!!

2009-07-02T10:48:00.005-04:00

I hope you all enjoy this long weekend, celebrating our country and all its freedoms!! Please remember those who have fought and continue to serve to keep our country free. Thank you from my family and may God bless you on this special day. Thank you for your sacrifice of time, and may God protect and bring you all safely home.

Well Finally!!!

2009-06-09T09:08:00.009-04:00

Oh my goodness!! We've gone from prom around here to graduation and open house, to exhaustion. I keep saying, "I need to change my blog." That, however, would involve thought, effort, two things that seem to have left me recently. We have had a delightful time the last month, but wow, am I tired!! :) Ashleigh graduated and is one of those kids who enjoys ever moment she lives in. She is fun to watch, she soaks in everything... as she should!! She graduated on Thursday, May 28th, outside, and as you can see, the clouds were dark and threatened rain, but Praise the Lord, never did.
It was freezing...no, seriously, I had a thick sweatshirt, turtle-neck, and even some mittens on!! But no rain!! Family was all in for that, and then on Sunday, we had her open house here. We fed probably around 250 people. She had a taco bar, which really did seem to flow nicely, our backyard was full of people we love, and the sun was shining.

Oh and we also got to talk to our son from Iraq, as did many others, so what's not love!! We had a wonderful day!! Yes, and even in all that, I have managed to knit!! Actually, crochet. We have a team from church leaving for Brazil, and they needed 17(final count) dishcloths.

I crocheted them, because that goes faster, and got them all done!! I also made two dish towels for Mom's for mothers day. I didn't get a picture of my mom's which was purple and lime green. Will have to see if I can get that. They liked them. Now, will they use them!! You knitters know what I mean!! I think, besides Alex and Anna's blanket, I might cast on for a pair of summers socks for me. I haven't done a pair of socks in s
o long, I want to make sure I can. We have a few weeks respite then we are off for camping season, Jeff's sisters for the 4th. Then, Lord willing, we will be gearing up for Alex to come home. No official date yet, (and even when we do, I can't tell):) but it might be sooner than we expected!! He is pretty homesick, so do keep him in your prayers. I know several of you mention him alot, and I know your praying, and I thank you for that!! I am still blown away, that Christians, I may never meet until glory are praying for me and my family. How cool is our God!! Guess that's it. Oh! The garden is in. Maybe next time I'll take some pics of that new garden we put in last fall with my folks (remember that??) and show you what it looks like now!! But for now, that's all I've got. I've missed you, even though I have been keeping up with your blogs. As always, thanks for visiting me and come back soon.
Suzanne

Spring and Prom (picutre heavy post!)

2009-05-03T14:31:00.012-04:00

Well, spring has sprung around here, trees are budded and blooming and of course that means Prom.
Our daughter is a senior, as had her prom this past Saturday.
Here are a few shots of her and her friends. She has more friends, but these kids have grown up together. THey had a beautifully sunny day. Although a little windy, still beautiful. Ashleigh is the one in yellow (duh!).
Another thing with spring is the fact that Alex will miss it this year. I think I will send him some pictures. He says all he sees is sand. :) The dishcloths you see are crocheted, and are for our churches mission trip to Brazil in June. I have a couple more weeks,( I'm making twelve of them to take to the 12 pastors wives), but this is such an easy, and nice pattern.
Easy to memorize and makes a really nice thick, nubby fabric. Also, is the nice swap package I got from Diana.
I still won't show hers, yet, as I'm not sure she's gotten it yet. I had all the stuff, almost the entire month, just didn't get it mailed out. She made me a beautiful butterfly dishcloth
and a very cool sunflower. Looks hard to me.
She sent me a lot of other goodies. Very fun. I am taking a couple months off of the swap, due to all the busyness around here. Oh yes, how could I forget, look what I got from my mother and father-in-law for mothers day... a beautiful vintage apron. I see many aprons on lots of your blogs (lovely by the way) and I have several already, but this one matches my living room, which is visible from my kitchen.
I wore it today in fact, had to take it off for the pictures. Fun, Fun! If I ever get real adventurous, I might actually make my own. Sewn, not knit. I have added the fourth color(red) on Alex and Anna afghan, when I get a little more done, I will show you. It does look real pretty, still think its a huge project. Maybe wedding, maybe 1st anniversary, we'll see!! LOL :) Anyway, I know I rambled a bit, but thanks as always for visiting, and come back soon!!
Suzanne

A little Busy

2009-04-28T09:19:00.007-04:00

Well, as I said, still trying to figure out this new computer, but I did manage to download all my new pictures, so I figured it was time to change the ole' blog. Thanks to all my (few) faithfuls (you know who you are). I miss hearing from you and I do so appreciate your comments!! I have been busy in the...well actually, more crochet right now than knitting. I am in the process of knitting that Moderne Blanket for Alex and Anna. Wow what a huge project. I will take pictures soon, but I feel guilty knitting anything else, when I have so far to go on that. So, what is a knitter to do? .... Crochet of course... that doesn't count!! :) I made some real fast projects though that were great stash busters! First, is the Stitchy Scrubbie I found in the latest issue of Crochet Today. Isn't this fabulous!! The directions were a little strange sounding, but if you follow them then you get this. Just great. I will definitely be making more of these.
The only thing is that the yarn needs to be doubled. I hate that, cuz that means making two balls instead of one, and I will avoid one if I can. I need a ball winder!! Hum!! The next project was a tote.
I did find this pattern somewhere, but simply took the basic directions out of a crochet instruction book for a flat circular bottom. I think I did 7 rounds, then you crochet through the back loop with you first color, and then every color, I used a different stitch, which in crochet means a different length. Make the thing as tall as you want, do the same for the handle, and Viola' instant great summer tote. I have gotten a lot of compliments on this.
Just makes me think summer. I like it!!
I have made a couple dishrags, but they are for swap, and I haven't sent them out yet, so next post I will show you those. Maybe I will have more scrubbies made by then. Guess that is all for now. This is going to be a whirlwind month, our daughter is graduating, every concert and piano and voice recital is scheculed for this month, plus one son in track, not to mention getting ready for her open house. Whew! I'm tired already! :) As usual, thanks for stopping and hopefully I can post soon. Should have lots to share! :) Have a great day!
Suzanne

I'm Back!!!!!!

2009-04-15T10:16:00.004-04:00

Praise the Lord!! I have a new computer!!! I'm sure you all thought I dropped off the planet, and there were times when I felt like I did! :) I was able to use my husbands old laptop, but lets just say all I could do was lurk and check emails. It wouldn't even let me leave comments!! I have been knittiing. I'm not sure though if I have any new pictures. I will soon, but alas, that part of this computer system isn't quite finished. Here are some updates:
Alex is on a long mission, please pray for him. He just in the last month, had two wisdom teeth pulled, and suffered through a bought of dehydration, that had us a little concerned. He also has lost @ 30 pounds. I asked him if they had a fat Marine Mom weight loss program. I'd be right over! :)
Daughter Ashleigh (the senior) is counting down days, now that spring break is over. She will be done on May 15th!! Whoa, quess I better get going on her open house plans...yikes!!
The Boys are boys... :) trying to keep ones grades up, and one is running track. Hopefully have some pictures of that soon.
Well, it seems to be spring sort of here in Michigan. No blooms yet, but everything is budded. Just waiting for 60 degree weather. Then I am sure everything will pop!!!
I did get out in my yard last week, got the garden beds already, and hope to plant seeds in my garden on Saturday. I guess thats really all. Oh Wedding plans are really in full swing. We went with Anna last week to the place where the reception will be for a taste testing dinner. That was fun, and I think she got the menu set. Today, I am off to meet my brother and his family at the Bridal shop, so my neice Lydia (who is in the wedding) can pick out her dress. Talk about excitement for a 6 year old.... getting to pick out a princess dress. Her only two questions were... what color.... and do I get to carry flowers like Anna!! Very important things you know!! I went a couple weeks ago with Anna and Ashleigh, so Ashleigh could order her dress. That was fun. I got to see Anna's dress. Wow, she will make a beautiful bride. The dress is beautiful, but she makes the dress!! Sappy, but true!! :) I guess that is it for now, I just wanted you to know that I was still here, and have missed being in blogland!! Thanks for visiting, and I hope to hear from you!!
Thanks,
Suzanne

Computer Issues

2009-03-11T08:52:00.002-04:00

Okay, I am sick of things being sick. I have been sick since, like, forever, Mid January, and then my computer gets sick. Is there a connection?? I think not, but thanks for letting me have my 3 second pity party! :) I have been doing some knitting. Made my mom a pair of fingerless gloves, they were from my Knitting Calendar 2008, with the ruffle. If you have the calendar, you;ll find them. I am bad, and didn't get a picture! I also made her a dishcloth and a mug rug. I still need to make myself one of those. I have been working on Alex and Anna's afghan. I don't know if I posted this, but I am doing the Moderne Blanket from Mason Dixon Knitting (Book 1). The pattern is simple enough, but this thing will be huge. It is all knit, which is nice, but a tad boring. I am finishing up another neck cowl, I will post pictures here when I'm done.
Just also wanted to share some personal stuff. I am currently going through Beth Moore's Study, A Psalm of Ascent. It is based on Psalms 120 - 134. It is a pilgrimage. I have read the Psalms many, many times, but Beth takes a closer look at these 15 psalms, like only Beth could. Also, the Lord's timing, as usual, is perfect, and why am I surprised when He gives me just what I need when I need it? I was having one of my bad days, missing Alex, and I sat down to do one of the lessons, and it was Psalm 121.
"I lift my eyes up to the hills, From where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. Indeed, the Protector of Israel does not slumber or sleep. The Lord protects you; the Lord is a shelter right by your side. The sun will not stike you by day,, or the moon by night. The Lord will protect you from all harm; He will protect your life. The Lord will protect your coming and going both now and forever!
Can I just say... Amen!! I needed that, and knew that not only is God talking to me, to settle me, but I knew I needed to pray that for Alex.
Then, about a week later, we found out that Alex was going on a mission, and I was in Psalm 125. "Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion. It cannot be shaken; it remains forever." I just love the way God is using the Sunday School lesson to quiet a mothers heart. Giving me what I need, when I need it!! Our God is so good!!
Thanks for stopping by. Hopefully I'll have some new pictures next post!!
Suzanne

More Catching Up!!

2009-02-22T14:52:00.006-05:00

Hi all!! Boy I am sure not liking this new average I seem to have with blogging. Only once a month, I feel so out of touch. I do visit your sites though, and some fo my faithful few (you know who you are :)) Continue to leave me comments!! I sure do appreciate it. On the Alex front, he is at his sandbox destination. Arrived safely. We have had the opportunity to talk with him a few times. We got a webcam for Christmas, and then you get onto Skype. What a wonderful thing!!! Last Wednesday, we talked for about an hour with VIDEO!!! The movements are a little delayed, but clear!! He was cleaning his rifle. We got a tour of his "can" that's what they call their "house." The conversation takes a little longer, b/c of the delay, but he sounds and looks good. He has already lost 20 pounds!! Hope he doesn't loose too much more, he'll fit back into the dress blues he came out of boot camp with. Skype also allows you to take snapshots. Which I did, but I have no idea where on my computer they went. I tried to find them this afternoon, and I can't. I will try to find them, or take another one and post it here. Thank you to all those who are faithfully praying for him. He truely is in God's hands, not that he never wasn't!!
Knitting has slowed down, however I was sick last week, and did some things for my mom. However, since they sometimes read this blog, I will have to wait on those pictures. I will put on here some of the items I did from Christmas. (yes, I'm still playing catch up!!). First up are the scarves I did for my neices. The first one, is a crochet pattern from my LYS. It is what is called a "Mock Cable Stitch". Very cool, funky, but easy!! I even made one for myself. My beautiful neice Liberty
and then Lydia are modeling those scarves. I used Encore for the pink one, and Patons wool for the redder one.
The other scarf, modeled by the beautiful and wonderful cook, Lindsay, was the One Skein Scarf from the Happy Hooker Book. Also very simple, and I like the flowery looking motif. All very simple, but fun to make!! Thanks to Lindsay for taking pictures for her old aunt, as I forgot. Oh she is also a wonderful and talented photographer!!! Thanks, Lindsay!!
THe other two are dishclothes. Both are snowflakes, The white one is a little hard to see, but I thought the blue one turned out nice. Both were easy patterns (see my Ravelry page under Zandersmom), but I liked the pattern and the motif better on the blue one. The white one, actually had two yarn overs in the middle, which if your a knitter, you will know leaves a hole. So, eventhough hard to see, there are two holes in the middle of the snowflake. Kind of different!! :) I guess that's it, I just wanted to catch up. I am involved in a new Bible Study, but we have just started, but I am learning soooo much, I'm not sure I even know where to start. I will save that for a post by itself. It is Beth Moore's "Psalm of Ascent." It is very different, but by far the most spiritually challenging one of hers I have done. I will be teaching in the spring, until the end of the year, so that will keep me busy as well. I am reviewing curriculm right now. Well, I guess I'm done, for now, thanks as always for visiting. Please come back!!
Suzanne

New Things

2009-02-01T13:01:00.009-05:00

Back to knitting!! I've actually been pretty busy on the knitting front, just not on the getting pictures from hubby front. However, he did get them to me yesterday, so I will try to catch up, but I will do it in small doses. First are the two helmetliners that I did for our Marine and his buddy, Ben.
I made Alex the black one, which is being modeled by my youngest son, Eric.
This was made from Shepherd's Wool, made right here in northern Michigan at Stonehedge Fiber Mill.This yarn was just simply "Yummy."
It was just buttery soft, and it worked up like a dream. It is 100% wool, which is required by our military. I am trying to think of something to make for me out of it. I made Ben's out of Cascade 220.
It is being modeled by my son Greg. I wanted to see how the two compared. The Cascade is a great yarn, but the Shepherd's Wool won handsdown for softness.
They both turned out great and the pattern was different than anything I've ever done, but not hard at all. It is a very well written pattern. Check out my Ravelry notebook for all the details.
The blue scarf was a quick gift for a friend at church. I had some leftover yarn from this... A beautiful flower motif scarf that I made for Anna for Christmas.
It was crocheted and quick to make. It looks longer than it is. Anyway, back to the blue scarf....sorry. I used the leftover Lion Brand Wool Ease Chunky and size 17 needles. Turned out nice and long, enough to wrap around several times. I made her a dishcloth too, but don't seem to have that picture yet. I'll share when I do. I guess that's it for now, I have lots more to share, but I don't want to bore you all in one post. As usual, thanks for taking the time to read my blog, and I hope you visit again soon.
Suzanne

Sad, sad, sad

2009-01-26T08:48:00.007-05:00

No not me, but about what I'm going to show you. My father-in-law grew up in a small farming town in southern Michigan. He lived out in the country, about two miles from his grandparents, who owned a beautiful fruit farm. Grandma and Grandpa Nightliner bought the farm in 1917. They have since passed on, and Grandma sold the farm to a young couple back in 1988. Twenty years ago. We have driven by many times over the years, and watched it go from an old house that was totally fixable, (maybe a new roof at the time and a few TLC cosmetic things) to this today.
Very, very sad indeed. This fall, before our son left for the sandbox, and gets married, by DH decided to take the whole family, including his folks, and visit the farm his dad grew up on (sorry don't have the pics for that yet ). Anyway, on a beautiful day this past fall, we got permission from the new owners, and went and walked the entire property. It was very fun to hear George tell of old stories, where the pigs used to be, where they got in trouble for this and that (there was a lot of that, with 4 boys :). Then on a whim, we drove the couple miles to this farm. There happened to be someone there, doing a few things. We stopped, Jeff explained who we were, and then we got permission to look around.
Unfortunately, because of all the overgrowth, we couldn't go very far into the orchards, but if you looked close, you could tell the different kinds of fruits that they had... cherries, peaches, apples, plums. THe raspberries were long buried by brush. Unfortunatley, the house didn't fair well either. Not sure why someone would buy a house, property, and then for twenty years do nothing. As you can see from these pictures the house was now in disrepair We just found out that it was torn down by the township in December of 2008. The barn and the help houses are in better shape. The side of the house that is collapsing the most, used to be the dining room, and the kitchen was in the back.. They even fought the tearing down of the house, saying that they were going to do something with it. Hadn't done anything for 20 years, why now. I simply don't understand that. Jeff and I almost wish we would have bought it, but you can't go back can you??
Did take this sweet picture of all my kids in the huge, and I mean huge tree in the side yard.
All 3 of the big trees look like this, and Jeff said its because Grandma never let Grandpa trim them. She knew she wanted big, beautiful trees. We were glad we had the time to spend even a few hours there and that we got some nice pictures. Truely the end of an era. Sad.....

New Year

2009-01-05T13:16:00.002-05:00

Hi all! Thought I would take a mintue and change everything up for the new year. First up, our son is off. It was a long night of getting him to where he needed to be, saying "Goodbye" and finally falling into bed at 5:00 am this morning. He is truely in God's hands now, not that he never wasn't! Your prayers as always are appreciated.
I'm also trying to recover from a bad fall yesterday. We went out to dinner after church, Alex was still home, so it was a nice time for our family to be together, we had ice yesterday morning, and down I went. I think I wretched my entire body! Everything hurts on every side, most concerned about my left arm. Actually, I had a herniated disk in my neck two years ago,but my arm felt just like this. I have some permanent nerve damage in my left arm, and since yesterday, it feels just like it did two years ago. So, am trying to take it easy today, and maybe tomorrow, and hopefully this disk is not the problem!!
Did a lot of knitting for Christmas, pics still need to come from hubby, maybe I should deny food :) till I get them!! Only kidding! I see from many of your blogs that I am not the only one who is busy. I was so busy over the holidays, I forgot about my blogaversary! It was December 27th! I had great plans, but maybe I'll do something soon!
Guess that is it for now. I don't want to ramble!:) I hope to be posting some pics soon. Thanks for you visit, your patience, and as always I welcome your comments!!
Suzanne

Merry Christmas from Michigan

2008-12-24T07:40:00.004-05:00

This is the pier at Grand Haven, which is near where we live. Family has begun arriving, work has stopped, food has been prepared, and the snow is still coming down!! We are settled in for a few days of Christmastime, remembering the reason we celebrate.
"But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you, he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you, You will find the baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth
peace to men on whom his favor rests."
Luke 2:9-14

May you all have a peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year!
As always, thanks for stopping by.
Suzanne

Merry December!

2008-12-03T19:28:00.002-05:00

Well, I sure hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We sure did!! Spent Turkey day with my family at my mom's. We had a wonderful time. Then on Saturday, my DH's family came up to our house. Fun was had by all. We ate way too much, but it all was so good. Monday was quite the emotional day, as our son began his deployment. We sent three crying kids to school and then had to take him. The Lord did bless us with an absolutely beautiful drive, as it had snowed the night before and every limb on every tree was covered. The roads really weren't bad, and we had sweet conversation all the way there. God is Good! Please just keep Alex in your prayers. Thank you!!
I have been knitting a lot, but because everything I am knitting is for Christmas, there really aren't alot of pictures. I will however, be posting tons of them afterwards!!
I hope you like the new Christmas background. The first one I did seemed so easy. This one was a pain in the butt!! Please reward my frustrating efforts with tons of great comments! :) I am only half kidding of course. :)
I did receive the most awesome swap package from Jane. She send some wonderful oatmeal, chocolate monster cookies. A beautiful dishcloth, and cute fish tawashi. She also sent me two boxes of fudge, a cute little chocolate cookbook, and two skeins of cotton for more dishcloths. I feel like I'm forgetting something, but it was a wonderful surprise. OOps, I just realized that I don't have the pics for that yet. I will have hubby send them asap. Sorry. But it was a lovely package. You'll see!
Better go, just wanted to touch base. I have lots of knitting to do. Is anyone done yet??? Kudos to you if you are. Why don't I start this in January?? A question for the ages I suppose.
Thanks for stopping by.
Suzanne

Still Here!!

2008-11-20T15:39:00.002-05:00

I everybody, Yes, it is true... I am still here. I haven't blogged in, wow, a week and a half, simply because I have been busy, and I have a ton of pics to share, but my husband has been so busy that he can't email me them!! Don't ask!! :) We so need to get our set up changed, so I can do the pics myself. I have been knitting some, lots of dishcloths it would seem, as I have had two bridal showers, and lots of Christmas knitting. Needless to say, those pics will have to wait. This post will be short, but I did want you to know I'm still here. I have been lurking on your blogs, and seems like some of you are as busy as I am!! :) Nice to know, except that I miss this and all my bloggy friends. I hope to have some pics and at least one more post before Thanksgiving. I also just sent out my goodies for this months Dishcloth swap, so when she receives all that, I will post pics. Thanks for being so loyal, and I;ll hopefully be back soon!
Thanks as always for stopping by!!
Suzanne

Happy Birthday USMC

2008-11-10T08:55:00.004-05:00

Being a Proud USMC Family, we pray for those who choose to make a great sacrifice daily, by serving our country. We pray for those in all branches of service around the world. Thank you for serving and for keeping the liberties that my family enjoys safe, may God watch over you and protect you. Thank you, and Happy Birthday!!

Little Trip

2008-10-29T07:33:00.008-04:00

Okay, I'm back!! I really don't like this not posting as often, but with working, My knitting projects are taking longer, and I'm a little tired. Oh well, enough grousing, I'm glad you decided to stop by and visit, so I apologize for grumbling right out of the bat. A few weekends ago, My DH and our good friends Tom and Kim went on a little trip. We went to Allen, Michigan.
It is suppose to be the "antique mecca" of Michigan. Well, we left early Friday morning, and found quite a few antique malls, but no real mecca!! We were kind of disappointed, but we did have a very, very fun day, very relaxing, and we did find a few treasures. We had a late lunch (something that is hard to do with 4 kids(they have 4 too) b/c they are always "starving" at 12:00!!! :) I just realized I didn't take a picture of some of my treasures, but I will. Then, after lunch, @ 2:30p.m. we ventured into another small town called Jonesville. Well, Jonesville has this store called Knit & Knacks. Need I say more!! We told the guys to take a nap and Kim and I walked into this store. We knew we were in big trouble the moment we opened the door. THis was a huge store, and she had yarn EVERYWHERE!!! :) Not messy, she had yarn in baskets, that were gorgeous, and I think every shade of Cascade 200 you can imagine. I don't think I'd ever seen half of these shades. It took us an hour(not kidding) just to "look around" then, we had to go back through, and decide what we were gonna buy. Oh man. I think Kim and I decided that a trip every Fall without the hubbies would be on the docket now!! THe lady there was very helpful, but left us alone to drool. I bought some Online sock yarn ( yeah I know, but I couldn't resist). I also bought some Cascade Cloud 9 in a beautiful red, for some fetchings (by Knitty) that I have long been drooling over. (I drool alot, don't I?) :) I also bought a skeing of Berroco Comfort. In a lovely Olive green color. I didn't buy too much, or anything too out there, I am always afraid I won't know what to do with it. If you are ever in Jonesville, Knit & Knacks is the place to go!! I had every intention of taking pictures, really I did, but the yarn!! The yarn!!

This is the beautiful Bed & Breakfast we stayed in that night!! We were in a room called the Shakespear Room, with a mini library.
I thought that was very fitting. It was a beautiful home, and the breakfast was very yummy!!
I have more to share, but alas, I need to get ready, so I can go teach my bible study this morning!! I will share more soon. BTW, Please pray for my brother and his family, he is in Suriname with 3 of their children on a mission trip (arrived late last night) and my SIL in home with the other 7. I don't know who needs more prayer :) so please remember all of them!! As usual, I love it when you stop by, please leave me a comment, I love that too!! Have a great week!
Suzanne

Bits and Pieces

2008-10-15T19:19:00.004-04:00

Hi there all!! I really dislike coming up with titles :( But, I finally have somethings to share. Like my goodies from my swap partner Jill in Santa Rosa, California. Look at all these goodies. I was just blown away.
A beautiful dishrag done in a colorway that I do not recognize. Do any of you know what it might be? A great fingertip towel, beautiful sock yarn,
not to mention another skein of cotton for....you quessed it, a dishrag!! Chocolates! Wow. Even a cute Fall spatula. Never seen on like it! It has little leaves in it, if you can't see it. Its so fun to receive these little goodies once a month. I sent mine out to my partner Karen, the very same day (go figure). It is going all the way to England this time. I tried to mail it out as early as I could, so hopefully it gets there before the end of the month. I made the cutest little amigurumi pumpkin.
It was so fast and easy. I think I shall make more of these. Probably could do it in red, add a leaf of some sort, and viola... an apple!! Nice way to use up odds and ends. Our weather here has been unreal. It was in the 80's most of last week. Now, however, it is in the mid to upper 50's. A little more normal. I love the hot, but you are almost ready for the coolness. Our colors are turning very nicely. Seems like lots of reds this year, which is my personal favorite. My husband and I are going antiquing this weekend with some friends, and I am taking the camera. So hopefully next week I'll have some pics of that. Of course, my friend is a knitter, so I will have specs for some projects, just in case ;) we see a yarn store here or there. :) I have been busy with work. I do love it, but for one who hasn't worked since before kids, really, it takes some adjusting. Plus I'm tired :) My Precept Bible study is going well. I know I haven't talked much about that, part of the busyness I guess. We are doing Covenant. It is just so cool to take this one very important concept, and see how even the simplest of details are of so much importance and meaning and how it all relates from Genesis to Revelation. Very cool stuff!!
Guess that's really everything, except to continue to thank all of you who leave such nice comments on my blog. It is such an encouragement to me!! That's all for now. THanks for stopping by and please come back! Hope you are having a beautiful Fall!!
Suzanne

Catching UP!

2008-10-04T12:45:00.006-04:00

Sorry I've been gone a while. Looks like with my new job, I might only have time for once a week. However, there was a few day delay in getting my DH to email me the pictures. I wanted to show you my new cowl. It is the Stacked Eyelet Cowl, I found the pattern on Ravelry. It was a nice easy pattern.
I wouldn't mind making this again maybe even in a little stiffer yarn. I do however, like the way this turned out. I like the way it drapes. I plan on wearing it a lot with a top, not necessarily to keep warm. Speaking of warm, it was NOT warm here this morning. I don't know what the "official" temperature was, but when I got up this morning, there was white stuff on the ground, no, not snow, but a heavy frost. I will need to go check the tomatos, they may be done. Thanks for all your nice comments for my birthday, and I hope you do go or did go see the movie "Fireproof"! It really was awesome!
These photos are of the swap package I sent to my partner in September. Sorry for the one where everything is already wrapped, I forgot to take a picture, and I really wanted to get it out, so I didn't unwrap everything.
I put things in there like crochet grips, row counter, a sample of "Soak", some "Handemade" labels and a few other things. I think she enjoyed everything. I am anxious for Octobers, the person I got is from England, that will be fun! I am trying to get my thoughts, as well as my list made for things I need or want to make (knit) for Christmas! I have some ideas, but I need to write them down, or I tend to go on to the next "great thing" I am really in no hurry for Christmas to get here. I guess that's all the catching up I have, I don't want to ramble...some might be saying......to late :). Thanks for visiting, and Happy Fall!
Suzanne

MUST GO SEE!!

2008-09-27T09:33:00.001-04:00

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Our church rented out an entire movie theater last night. You seriously must go see this fabulous movie!! You will laugh(lots), You will cry (lots) and something that usually doesn't happen when you see a movie, you will walk away..........uplifted!! Kirk Cameron, in my opinion, gives the performance of his life. This is opening weekend, and I would encourage you to go see this movie. Trust me, there is plenty of suspense, and you will not be sorry that you did. Take someone you love, or someone who is struggling!
The message is very clear! Kudos once again to the makers of this movie, and the rest of us will pray with you, that God would lead you to make another movie!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-09-26T07:22:00.001-04:00

Sorry, a shameless plug. Must go to work, though! :) I hope you have a great day too, birthday or not!
Suzanne

Comings and Goings

2008-09-22T09:56:00.005-04:00

Hi all, this is a picture of all the cool stuff sent to me by Bobbi, for our monthly dishcloth swap over at yahoo. The theme was "emergency kit" so you'd have all the essentials, for keeping something in your car, so you can always be knitting. I thought this little kit was just too fun. It has everything in it, from circular needles, to a crochet hook, to stitch markers and a row counter. I thought the dishrags were very pretty. One (the coffee cup) is knitted, and the other one is done in crochet. Bobbi, like me does both. I thought the color was beautiful, kind of a salmon color. Very nice. Thanks Bobbi for spoiling me once again.
Then here is the items I sent to Karen in New York, for the Dish Rag Tag (see sidebar) that I was involved with this month. Everything stopped when I got that box, as you might have read in my last post. Hope she liked everything, I do believe that she has sent the box on to the next person already. That was really fun too!

I just sent out Bobbi's stuff today, so I can't show you the pictures of those items, but I will in a couple of days, to make sure she gets it before I post it. I can't wait to put my emergency kit in the car. Just need to pick out a pattern, and stick it in there, and then I will always have at least a dishrag going. :) Fun, fun!

Also, just joined Facebook. Long story on why, but I;m there. It seems a lot harder to me than blogging, and I am not going to give up blogging, but maybe its a little bit more "instant" than blogging. If your on Facebook, look me up. I guess that's really it for now. I have to go shopping, our daughter - in-law to be's birthday is tomorrow. 19. Wow, remember when? My birthday is Friday, but lets just say I won;t be 19!! :)

Guess that's it, I thought I had more pictures, but can't seem to find them. I will check, and you might be hearing from me later in the week. For now, I'm glad you stopped by, Thanks for visiting. Hope you have a great week!

Suzanne

FO's

2008-09-15T19:02:00.008-04:00

Finally, I have finished a few items, and I have been waiting for this! I am a part of this years Dish Rag Tag. Emily over at Yarn Miracle is orchestrating this, and she is doing a fantastic job. I wouldn't even know where to begin. I got my package today, from Karen in Illinois, and I have to get the cloth done tonight, and then mail it out first thing tomorrow. Had the mail come a little earlier today, I could have gotten it out today. I am on the Cotton Queens team. We will win, cuz we are Queens and we rule. Sorry, really bad pun there!! Couldn't help myself. Karen really out did herself, as you can see, especially since the box isn't that big. Thanks Karen!! Next up are my socks. I started these way back the beginning of February, when our middle son ended up in the hospital. I got the first one done pretty quickly, but have been so slow with the second one. Finally, they are done!! They look like one is bigger than the other, but they aren't, they fit like a glove!! Very nice!! They are the thickest ones I've done. I have already cast on for another pair. I am doing Jaywalkers from Grumperina. You can find the pattern and more of her great designs on Ravelry. I am getting ready to send out my monthly dishcloth swap stuff, but I can't post pictures until she has it. I think I'm sending it to Bobbi in New Jersey. So fun!!

Our oldest and only daughter passed her driving test tonight. She is finally a legal driver. It will be very helpful, especially for herself, as she will have lots of extra commitments this year. I want to take a moment, and thank all of you who left such positive, and encouraging comments on my blog recently. I know that I will probably never meet many of you, maybe none of you, but it is so cool to sit back and watch the Lord bring people into your life through many different avenues. Thanks again!!

On that note, some serious news to tell. I waited a little while to tell this, b/c we needed to make sure that all our family knew before I posted this. As many of you know, our oldest son is a Marine. He has been called up, and will be leaving soon to fulfill his duty to our country. This is a tuffy people. On one hand, I am so filled with pride that I feel like I might just bust, but at the same time he is my baby. And this is hard on a mothers heart. I KNOW that beyond a shadow of a doubt, that wherever he goes, he is in the Lord's will and that the Lord will protect him!! I would ask that you remember him in your prayers, and not just him, but every son and daughter that is serving our country, whether they are here or abroad. Needless to say, the wedding is still on, but will be pushed out to a later date. Anna is going to make a great helpmate for him, she is already being so positive, and has such a great attitude about the whole thing. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." God has been faithful and He can and will continue to be faithful!! Thanks for stopping by.

Suzanne

What a Week!

2008-09-08T07:55:00.002-04:00

Hi all, Where did the week go? The kids started back to school. My son, the freshman, is the only one who didn't want to even talk about school until the day it started, so when I offered several times, to go walk around the school and find his classes, he did not want to. Okay. So, when he got home the first day of school, he said, "I didn't find one class on time." "I thought I was never going to find the gym." Which my daughter, the senior, replied,"We have two!" My son just shook his head and said, "Don't tell me that, I found the one I needed!!" The next day, I asked him how it went, and in his proudest manner said, "I was only late to two classes today!!" We're getting there!!!!!!!! :) My daughter, again the senior, is determined to enjoy everyday of this year, and so she should. She's a fairly good student, if its a music class, and her schedule is fairly easy this year. That's as it should be!!! She'll have a ball!!
Our youngest started junior high (lots of milestones this year). He is also playing football. The games start this Wednesday. I do not mind football, until the weather starts to get "Yucky." I think he plays tightend, and maybe kicker. They are still trying out for that one. He is our little social butterfly! Its gonna be a fun 6 years with him!!!!!!
I started my new job on Thursday. I got a job (part time) at our local library. The gals I have met so far are very nice and eventhough its different than I thought, I really think I will enjoy it. I just love being around books. Trouble is, I see all this stuff that looks good, that I haven't read yet, and my list is already growing!! Yikes!!
I also started my bible study last week. It really was an introduction class, so the first lesson is this week. I have a great group of ladies, who are hungry to study God's word. We are doing "Covenant". It is the Precept Study, by Kay Arthur, that I mentioned in a much older post. They are pretty in depth, and more time consuming than most studies. I also start teaching piano lessons today. I only have 4 students today, and then 3 on Thursday, when I get home from the Library. Not too bad!
I did have a special priviledge on Sunday, I was asked by a gentleman back in August to sing at a veterans home here in Grand Rapids. I was so honored to so. I sang "God Bless America" and "Amazing Grace My Chains Are Gone." Just when you think your going to go do something and bless them, they end up blessing you!!!!!!!! I wore my MOM Marine Shirt, and several of them gave me a "Sempre Fi." I wish I had the time to hear their stories. I'm sure they are amazing.
Yes, there has been knitting. Seems like I have pumped out a lot of dishcloths, so fast, that I haven't even had time to get pictures, before they are out the door. Two of them are on their way to Guatemala today with my girlfriend. She is flying back there to see her ailing father, so I made a couple for her mom. I hope to finish up my socks, I am anxious to start a new pair. I also am almost done with a cowl. Pictures soon!! Thanks for your visit, and I hope I didn't ramble too much!! Have a great week!!
Suzanne

My First Blog Award!!

2008-09-01T16:27:00.006-04:00

I just got my first blog award from friend Rebecca Jo over at http://rebecca-belle.blogspot.com/. I was so surprised and grateful, lets see if I can do this right.

There are rules, and here they are:

1. Put the award on your blog. (Hopefully its there)

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you (that's below) and say something nice about them. ( So not hard to do!)

3. Name at least 4 fellow bloggers for this award.

4. Add links for the recipients.

5. Leave a comment to let the recipients know they have received the award.

I know, doesn't sound hard, its all that computer stuff (linking) that I have trouble with. Well lets see how this goes.

Rebecca Jo's blog is so wonderful! She is very funny and almost on a daily basis challenges me with even the simplest things. She is a knitter, heavily involved in her church youth group, (which I envy, I don't have much patience with other peoples kids) :) She loves the Lord, and you can tell that just by reading her blog. I love to visit her, and she is so kind and gracious when she leaves comments on my blog. Please go visit her. You won't be sorry, but you might be challenged!! Thanks again Rebecca Jo!!!

Here are the 5 blogger friends that I would like to give this award to:

1. http://knittinggiraffe.blogspot.com/ (Leah) She is just plain cute. She is a wonderful knitter, and again, is very gracious when she comments. She is encouraging and thoughtful. Her blog is a very soothing place to visit. And, in case you couldn't tell, she loves giraffes!!

2. http://sewtakeahike.typepad.com/ (Penny) Penny is actually a seamstress!! Her blog is filled with great projects that inspire me, and I don't sew, so well (sorry bad humor :) Her blog is simply beautiful!! She also often has great recipes to pass along, and she has marvelous tutorials on different techniques. She too is very encouraging, a trait all these particular blogger friends have, by the way!!

3. http://homespunliving.blogspot.com/ (Deb) Her blog makes you want to get a cup of tea, and just curl up a stay. She is a knitter, mom and always puts out great recipes, and shares photos, and so many other ideas, you'll always find something new. Her use of vintage items is what drew me to her. Again, her blog is just beautiful!!

4. http://woolwindings.blogspot.com/ (Wool Winder) Loves the Lord, is a fabulous knitter, and puts out some great pictures. Also an encourager!! She also has been married as long as I have. Now that would be an award! :) She also shares so much of herself, and her blog is a joy to go to often!! Which, I do!!!!!

5. Last, but certainly not least is friend Tea at http://foothillsofthegreatsmokymountains.blogspot.com/ . The fact that she is from Tennessee (where my Dad hails from), is what led me to her. Then to find out she likes tomatas (not a spelling error, she'll get it!! ) and sweet tea, boy oh boy, and she knits beautiful things, and now she is sewing like a mad woman. How could you not love her!! She is very funny and her blog is a wonderful place to go. Wish I could really be there, I love Tennessee!!

To all these blogger friends, some are newer than others, but they are wonderful and I look forward to blogging with them for a long time to come!! Thanks again, Rebecca Jo, and I hope all my friends enjoy their much deserved blogging award. Thanks to you for stopping by!!

Suzanne

Lots of News!!!

2008-08-28T20:40:00.002-04:00

Where do I start? Well first, our sweet daughter in law (to be) passed her state boards for cosmotology today!! Actually she took the practical test last week and passed with flying colors, then today she took the written. She stopped over here just before and was quite nervous, but we knew she could do it. She's so smart, marrying our son and passing her test!! :)

Secondly, I GOT A JOB!! Well only a part time job, but I haven't worked in a couple years, so this will be a change for me. And the household!! I will be working at our local library, as a library processor. Fancy title for ...I'll put the books away!! There's a little more to it than that, I start next Thursday. I am looking forward to that! I also start my Precept Bible Study on Wednesday. We are studying covenant, so it ought to be a wonderful study. I need to spend this holiday weekend getting everything and everybody organized. Jobs for all!! They're thrilled!! ;)

I can't believe I waited so long to post this, but this is what Angela, my August swap partner sent to me. A great One Skein Book, a beautiful dishcloth, she made it especially to go with my Fiesta dishes, which are lots of different colors. I think I have around 12 - 14 colors. Fun!! She also sent me some tea, and some candies made out in Oregon, where she is from. She also included a beautiful skein of yellow chenille yarn and a pretty yellow felted flower, that I might just have to make a purse to attach to. She sent me a cool vintage pastry cutter, the theme was thrift shop, but I think that might mean different things in different parts of the country. I think of thrift shops as Good Will, etc. But she and I communicated, and as it worked out this month, I got to send to her as well as receive from her, so we both love vintage, and went with that!! Sorry for the long, poorly grammatical sentence :)

I am trying to wrap up several outstanding projects. Mostly dishcloths. So I will post them when they are done. I found a cool new pattern, that I am working on right now, so again, I'll tell you all about it when they are done. That's it for now, thanks again to all of you who stop by a leave such nice comments. And if you just stop by, please leave a comment!! Thanks,

Suzanne

Look What I Did With My Weekend

2008-08-25T10:54:00.012-04:00

For years, I have had this vision for our side yard. It is quite large, and boring. There was nothing there. We drive by it all the time, and with our daughter graduating in June and an impending Open House, Now was the time to plant perennials, and get this done. The only thing missing is a rusty gate, (which I have and which DH says will be in by the weekend!!) which will go behind the hydrenega. I will post a picture when that is in!!

My mom and dad came up Friday afternoon, we already had the bricks in place, and a small amount of dirt in the center garden. We put 55 (40lb each) bags of top soil into this garden. Plus 5 (40lb) bags of mushroom compost. Some went into the small side garden, but not many. That's alot of dirt!! My mom is a pro at this flower planting stuff, I should take pictures of her garden, it could go in any garden magazine. She is very good at it, and can work circles around me! Her and I went to the greenhouse on Friday, and bought the perfect amount of stuff. I have a beautiful hydrenga, old fashioned roses, zebra grass, and maiden grass. I also have daisies, and cone flowers. I planted some mums in the front, as the rest of it will be coming to an end soon. The side garden has black-eyed susan's in there too. Then along the house we planted lilies. My husband is gaga over his lilies. They do look nice, and bloom pretty much all summer here in Michigan. We kidded him all weekend about him and his lilies. (I'm surprised he didn't want to name our daughter...Lily :)

I have to laugh at the picture of my dad. I took two, don't know where the other one is, but he really isn't mean, he sort of looks it in the picture, but I just took a bad shot. Love you dad!!! I really couldn't have done this without Mom's help, again, she is amazing. Did you know that plants need a trench around them?? I didn't. I guess it helps to get water directly to the roots, so they take. Guess that's all for now. Yes, I did work on this project, but I decided the pictures of me were sinfully horrible, so I stayed behind the camera. Better for you all!!!! Hope you have a great start to your week, and that you had a great weekend. Thanks for stopping by.

Suzanne

Some Promised FO's

2008-08-20T18:23:00.007-04:00

Okay, a couple of posts ago, I promised some pics of the Bark Sedge Stitch Dishcloth. I won't show the one I did for my swap partner, b/c she won't have gotten the package yet. However, I do have another one to show you. BTW, who names this stuff? What is a Bark Sedge? All I know, is that this crochets up into the nicest, thickest fabric I have seen in a dishcloth. And its pretty too. I also made some baby washcloths, for a friend who is having her baby on Friday. It isn't exactly this stitch, but its very similar, and out of Cottontots yarn it makes a nice yummy and soft baby cloth. I am also doing her a quick couple pairs of booties. Found some really cute crochet ones on Ravelry, so I'll post pics when they are done. (Sorry for the blurry picture). Tonight, my DH and I are working outside on a garden in our side yard. There is nothing out there, and we drive by it constantly, and I am sick of seeing no color. We will be having our daughters open house (from high school) in June, so I need to get everything set and planted (perennials) now. My mom and dad are coming up on Friday and Saturday, to help us do some planting. My mom is bringing us a bunch of her lilies. I promise :) to take pictures and to post them next week. Oh speaking of mom and dad, today is their anniversary!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM and DAD!!! They are celebrating 48 years!!! WOW! What an example!!!

I really am almost done with my Ripple Ribbed socks, but they need to sit until I get these baby items done and a couple of dishrags for some brides' showers that I missed while we were gone. I suppose with all the showers coming up in the next year, I should just constantly have one on the needles! Or hook as I seem to be doing a lot of crochet lately.

Oh yes, another FO is my Quickie Cowl, done with the lucious yarn I won from Peaknits. This Plucky Knitter yarn is just wonderful to work with. Maybe I'll have to order some :) Don't tell DH!!! :)

Guess that's it. Hope your having a great week. Thanks for stopping by!

Suzanne

Home again, Home again...

2008-08-18T10:06:00.003-04:00

I'm back......... Wow, how come it seems like you go away on vacation, but you need to come home and "rest up" from it. We had a wonderful time at SIL house in northern Illinois. We had absolutely perfect weather, and everyone had a safe time. With all the tubing, wakeboarding, kneebording, and jet skiing, that is no small thing!! Plus the number of people doing it. We took Anna's family with us for several days. They are amazing friends, even before the engagement, and they are fabulous house guests. We had a ball. Even managed to go out to eat for an "adult" dinner one night, as we celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary. I also talked with a dear childhood friend the other night. We send Christmas cards every year, but its not the same as talking and hearing her voice, of course she sounded like her mom. She was a wonderful friend, and our families did a lot together, so often, she seemed more like a sister (of which I had none, neither did she). I have many fond childhood memories of our times together. One of the most memorable, and there is a picture to prove it, Friend Vicki lost her tooth, I had a loose one, and Vicki's mom LOVED to pull teeth. Need I say more. The picture is of both of us smiling, with big gobbes of cotton stuffed in our teeth. I love you, Maddy!!! :) LOL. If I ever find that picture, it surely will end up here!!
Anyway, nice to catch up with you Vicki!!!
Onto Knitting News. Notice, I have no pictures. Well that is mostly b/c I forgot to take my camera. Argh! I told my family that none of my blogger friends will even believe I really go on vacation, cuz I never post any pics. We really do go :) I did knit, and will take pics soon. I crocheted several little washcloths, for a friend that is having her baby this friday. Reminds, me, that I missed a wedding shower while I was gone, so need to knit up some dishrags for her. Whew. I am almost done with my Pebble Rib socks, I should have pics soon. It really is a great pattern. I will post all the specifics, when I do the pics.
One last thing, thank you so much to my blogger friend over at Sew Take a Hike (see my sidebar). She had a lovely post the other day, and mentioned a few blogs that she had visited, and why she liked them. She listed mine!! I was so excited!! Thanks!! I had to laugh though, she said she found my blog "peaceful". I think that is wonderful, and I am very glad it makes her feel that way, eventhough sometimes, my life feels anything but peaceful, I am glad that she visits and feels that way. I hope your visit was as pleasant! Thanks for stopping by!
Suzanne

Oops, forgot a title!

2008-08-07T09:31:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone, sorry I've been gone, but yes wedding planning is already happening around here. I went with Anna and her mom and dad yesterday to pick out the location for the reception!! I think we found a beautiful place. We were very impressed!! I really appreciated them asking me to go, cuz after all, I am only the mother of the groom! However, we are good friends with Anna's folks, so I'm sure they will be gracious and include us a lot! This is sooo fun!!

On the knitting front, this is all I got!! This is my neck cowl with the yarn I won from blogger friend Peaknits. I am a little further than the picture shows, and its almost done. I also am working on a beautiful dish cloth for my August Swap partner, Its crocheted, but I love the stitch. Easy, but a nice thick fabric. It is called the Bark Sedge Stitch. Really weird name, but nice :) I'll show pics after I send it off. Went home for a couple days to see my mom and dad. They don't live far, but my mom has the most beautiful flower gardens, enough to rival any garden magazine, and she just added a big terraced thing in her front yard. My nephew, Lincoln, and his family did most of the work, and I think it really was even Lincoln's brainstorm. He's only 17, but wow, he did a great job. However, do you think I took any pics............sorry ;)

I am leaving Saturday for Chicago with our family and Anna's family for a week of fun and sun, so I probably won't be around for a while, but I promise to have lots of pics to make up for this one. Hope you have a great middle of August............argh school and fall are right around the corner.............weren't we just waiting for summer to get here??????????

Suzanne

They're Engaged!!!!

2008-08-01T11:01:00.005-04:00

Look at these two!! Don't they make a beautiful couple? My son proposed to his girlfriend last night, and she said, "Yes!" There was a squeal or two in there as well. Her name is Anna, and we couldn't be happier to be adding her to our family. We already love her and can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for their lives together. He took her to Lake Michigan, they had a little picnic, and their mutual friend Hannah had I Love You done in paper bags with candles in them. Then Alex walked her, with her eyes closed to another location over a small hill, turned her around, and was down on one knee, when he told her to open her eyes, then asked her to marry him. Which, was followed by a squealing, "Of course, yes!!" No, we weren't there, but my son has it all on video. Taken by friend, Hannah. It will be fun to start the planning, doesn't seem that long ago, but my husband and I will celebrate 25 yrs next year. Wow. How time flies. They are bouncing around town today, telling everyone, and have made lots of phone calls to out of town relatives. We are all very excited. Congratulations Alex and Anna! We love you both!!

What a way to end July!!

2008-07-31T14:22:00.005-04:00

Wow, today was my lucky mail day!! I received both my July Dishcloth Swap Package from Alix, and my Plucky Knitter yarn that I won from my blogger friend Peaknit. I truely got spoiled by Alix, who sent all sorts of things to pamper myself (the theme was birthday). I got body cream and lotion, and a candle all in cherry blossom scent. I got a box of English Tea and a lavender eye mask, that I'd like to use now, but alas, it might make my typing even worse than it already is. :) The dishcloth is truely a work of art. It is purple, and kind of a double star pattern. Looks difficult to me, and she did a great job on it!! She also sent a new skein of Sugar N" Cream yarn for me. Thanks again Alix. Totally worth the wait.

Like I said, I also received my skein of Plucky Knitter yarn. It is the most glorious colors, and everyone that knows me will think she made it just for me. It is several shades of purple (are you sensing a theme?) and several lucious shades of olive. Perhaps a little brown, where the olive turns. Like I said, made for me!!! It is a bulky weight, and with 100 yds. I think I shall knit a cowl. Oh darn, the weekend is here,(close enough), and I have been finishing up projects, and oh darn, I need to cast on another one. What shall I do?!? Thank you to Alix and Peaknit for all my wonderful goodies! Happy Weekend!

Suzanne

Garden Spy Cam and FO's

2008-07-30T17:22:00.005-04:00

I had to laugh, the other day, my DH (who works from home, and his office is in the basement) emails me (which he never does) with an email title that said, "Look what your garden spy cam caught" I couldn't figure out what he was talking about, until I opened the attachment and here is what I saw!! Eating my lettuce. Look how fat he is!! We put a fence around the garden, in hopes that it will help, we'll see. I also suspect that he has been eating my zucchini blossoms, which is why I have blossoms, and NO zucchini. I love zucchini!! I have been waiting all year. I think me and Mr. Bunny need to have a chat. Wonder if he likes Ceyene pepper??? HeeHee!!

On the knitting front, I have been trying to finish a few things. I promise the knitting bag is almost finished. But I had to stick this in. Actually, this is crocheted, not knitted, but who cares! I have been wanting to do this bag for some time, thought I was doing it wrong, turns out there is an eratta page, and I was doing it right, it was their mistake. Who knew! Then, I wanted to line mine, but in the pattern they never tell you where to line (yes there is an important place) probably b/c they don't line theirs. So, I didn't line mine. I think I have a few people in mind to do one of these for Christmas. It really was easy and fast, once you got going. Thanks for stopping by.

Suzanne

Parties and Contests!

2008-07-28T14:51:00.005-04:00

Hi folks,
Whew, is it Monday afternoon already? What a weekend. My SIL came on Friday, and we went to dinner with some friends we hadn't seen in a few weeks. Then on Saturday, we celebrated my nephews first birthday! I can not believe he is one already. He is the sweetest baby (besides mine :) in the world! He is so cute, and was so good natured for all the excitement at his party. We had a fun time hanging out at Ron and Melia's all day. It helped, that it was probably the most perfect of summer days. A light breeze, perfect temp, and family. Can't get much better. And today is my SIL birthday too, I won't tell you how many of those we have celebrated, as she sometimes reads my blog, and would have my head. Just let me say, that she is beautiful inside and out, no matter how many birthdays she has!!
Yesterday, was just a beautiful day of fellowship at church. We had an unusual service, a commissioning service. We have a family in our church who are leaving today for the mission field, so we as their sending church, had a special service for them. We sang songs that are very meaningful to them, prayed for them, gave them scripture passages to encourage them. Then we had an outside baptismal service. Several families, and lots of young people, and a very special new christian friend, Sandy, who is just a breath of fresh air, all got baptized, then we fellowshiped together over a big potluck. Again, it was a perfect summer afternoon. Later in the evening, my DH, SIL and friend Kim all drove to Grand Haven , MI and had dinner, walked to pier, and then of course had to top the evening off with ice cream. Just fills in the cracks!! Trust me, I have quite a few!!LOL
The knitting front was non existant, but I am almost done with my Pam Allen knitting bag. Just finishing hand sewing the lining. Oh How could I forget, I WON a blog contest. My friend at http://peaknit.blogspot.comfor her blogaversary, and I won a beautiful skein of yarn from another blog friend,http://thepluckyknitter.com You can see my skein of yarn on peaknits blog, I think I will probably take her suggestion and make that cowl. Something I have been wanting to do anyway. Hers is beautiful. I am so excited! I'll do a show and tell when she sends it to me. Guess that's it for today. Hope you had a great weekend too!
Suzanne

Sewing

2008-07-24T10:35:00.002-04:00

Okay, so maybe I've been a little bitten by the sewing bug. Thanks, for all your great and encouraging comments regarding my sewing skills. You guys are great! Anyway, was checking out some sewing blogs, and ran across http://sewtakeahike.typepad.com. She has a beautiful blog, and a very fun giveaway right now, but hurry, it ends Sunday, July 27th. I have seen a lot of aprons, in the sewing world. I do like aprons, and yes even for me they are easy. I have several "real" vintage ones, and a beautiful one that my neice Lindsay made for me for Christmas last year. I do wear them, and have them hanging on a hook in my kitchen. Might have to get some cool fabric and make some. Anyway, enjoy your weekend and hop over to her blog, but I'm gonna win!!! :)
Suzanne

FO's and More!

2008-07-23T15:02:00.008-04:00

I have been a busy little beaver, but I am finishing up some projects that I have been putting off, b/c they involve sewing. Yes, I do own a sewing machine, and I use to sew quite a bit when my kids were much younger, but I have never been very good at it, and haven't sewed much since I cut out a pair of coudoroy shorts the wrong direction. Long story. This first project is Dante's Purse (see my Ravelry Page for a link to this pattern), I got the knitted part done in like a day back in March. It has been sitting since then. I even picked out the fabric around then, put there are several pages of directions, which seemed a little daunting, but they are really just very detailed, which is helpful. Once I got going, and only after a few mistakes, I finally got it done. I use it for my sock knitting. Everything fits in there perfectly. I really like this little thing.

The next project is my Everlasting Bagstopper. I LOVE this pattern. It is quick, and a really simple two row repeat, so makes for mindless knitting. I did use ribbon as you can see, but we'll see how long that lasts. This is quite the large bag, I haven't tested it out yet, but I do need groceries tomorrow, so I will test it then and let you know. I am almost finished with another bag that has been on the back burner, again, the knitting is done, but the lining needs to go in. I will have pics as soon as I can, probably next week. My mom is the best seamstress in the world, and can and does make just about anything, so even she might be impressed by all the sewing I've done. One, problem though, I don't think she reads this blog. Oh well, she will see them. I am sure she could have pumped them out a lot faster than I did, but at least I did it with no cussing! (I'm only kidding mom:)!!

Lastly before I leave, just wanted to say that on my DH and my playdate on Friday, we had a lovely time. Went to a new knitting store in South Haven, called "Needle in a Haystack.' Nice, nice little store. They were very friendly, and had some yarns there that even with about 4 LYS in my general area, can't find. After returning home, I put a comment on Ravelry, and got a nice little comment back from the owner, whom I missed seeing while I was there. Just have to go back....darn. :) I bought this lovely, and I do mean lovely, Ella Rae, in a beautiful Marine blue. Was going to make some fetchings, but it is sooooo soft, I think I might get more and make a cowl. It is yummy!! Also bought some Cascade Heritage Sock Yarn. Didn't know they made sock yarn, and it is the most beautiful shade of chocolate brown and very soft. I am anxious to try it. That wasn't much, but I didn't have a lot of time. DH can only be bored for so long. :) I love you honey!! He is a great guy, let me go in the store all by myself. So, I had to show him I could use a little restraint. :) Guess that's all. Hope you are having a lovely summer. Our weather has been just about perfect here the last few days, no humidity!!!! Have a fabulous weekend! Thanks for stopping!

Suzanne

Playdates and Sidewalk Sales

2008-07-18T11:55:00.007-04:00

Okay, first the playdate. I am heading out for the day with DH to points south, no, not Florida, we are heading the South Haven and Saugatuk for the day. We are actually meeting friends for dinner in Saugatuk, but there is a new yarn store in South Haven, called Needle in a Haystack, that has been open just a couple weeks, and I would like to check it out. I will show and tell when I return, cuz you know I probably won't return empty handed. Hope DH know that!:)

Onto Sidewalk sales, the following pictures are everything I just got a my LYS at their sidewalk days. I only spent $20.00. I was so happy, most of the yarns were 60% off, and I got two patterns for under $3.00 for both!! Actually more than two patterns, b/c one of the "patterns" is a book . It is really a book for ages 10 and up, but I thought a couple of the bags were very cute. So, I am the "and up" part of that book..:) I think the Berroco cotton twist, I will use for a couple of string market bags, and of course socks for the sock yarn. Duh! The green yarn is so soft, I hope I have enough for a pair of socks. There is 440 yards, so I should. Want to try and find a fairly simple pattern, put something that will show of the beauty of this solid color yarn. Any suggestions??? I guess that is all for now, I do have something else exciting to share, but will have to wait until I can spread the word. I hope you have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for visiting.

Suzane

"Adore"able Giveaway

2008-07-16T10:22:00.002-04:00

Okay that's my sad attempt at a little play on words, but I thought I would pass this along. A new blogger friend that I found at http://decortoadore.blogspot.com is having a fun, fun giveaway. Her site is beautiful and she has some really gorgeous stuff and wonderful ideas. I will be going back there alot. Already have her in my favorites. So, hop over to her site and give it a look.
Suzanne

Happy Birthday to My Baby!!

2008-07-15T15:02:00.006-04:00

Okay, He's 20 today!! And if he sees this, he'll probably not like me calling him my baby, but he is!! I still remember holding him in the hospital thinking he would never even be big enough to go to kindergarden. Well, that was a long time ago, eventhough to me, it feels like yesterday. We are very proud of the Christian young man he is and how he continues to seek the Lord for his life plans. He has had to remain very strong in his faith, while venturing out in the big world. He is a US Marine, and we are very proud of him for that as well. We love you, Zander, and wish you God's best as you continue to seek Him. Love Mom and Dad

Change Gears:

Knitting News: I have gotten quite a few things done this week, however, a couple of them will be on a later post, as I have to send them to my July swap partner before you all see them. Hopefully by the end of the week. I did however, finish my nephew's football helmet hat. The pattern is from Susan B. Anderson's Itty Bitty Hats Book. It was so simple and took no time to make. Her patterns are so well written, and the books are very nice to just look at. I hope it fits him. Oh well, if it doesnt', I shall make him another one. A little boy can never have too many football hats after all. :)

However, I am posting some pics of another craft that I enjoy, and that is stamping cards. I have done this for almost 10 years, and really enjoy it, it just isn''t as easy to take with you as knitting is. Well, thanks for stopping by, and I hope you are having a great summer week.

Suzanne

Flickr,FO, and Wip's

2008-07-09T11:36:00.009-04:00

Okay, What is up with Flickr? If you'll notice, I have the badge on the side, and mine (and I've noticed several others) aren't working. I did download some photos this morning, and noticed that Flickr now lets you download several pics at one time, but do I need to change something in order to get my badge working again? I am way too computer stupid, to keep up with all these changes. Any help from any of you would be greatly appreciated. I did have a wonderful time on vacation. Do you think I took one picture? No. However, I might have some from other family members when they get them to me. We had beautiful weather, and great fellowship together. I did get started on my nephew's football hat. This basic part of the hat took me no time. All I have to do is the crochet edging and the football. I would use a little heavier wool next time, this Encore is nice, but seems a little floppy for me. We'll see when we get it on his head. Might make him a different one for Christmas. Yes, it is never to early to start, in fact, if I don't start, I will be up till 2:00 a.m like I was last year. :) Also finished my socks!! I love them. You can see my Ravelry Ravelry.com project page for more details, I am Zandersmom on there. I am working on a new dishrag for my July swap partner, so I will show pics of that after I send it off to her. I also made a quick little bag before I left for Chicago. It is crocheted, and was so quick and easy, and is the perfect size for my sock knitting. Also tried some Hyperbolic Scrubbies. Found the pattern on Ravelry. It is simply done with single crochet, but really hurt my fingers after a while, so I might try half-double crochet instead, and see what that gets me. I will post pics when I get that done.Oh, I also found Lion Brand's new sock yarn at the Hobby Lobby in Chicago, and I hoped that our HL would have it, and guess what, they did! This stuff is great. One ball makes a pair, it has Aloe in it, and it sells for only $9.99. You take one of their 40% off coupons, and whoa. I think you get the picture!! I haven't knit with it yet, but have been dying to try the Jaywalker socks I've seen on Ravelry, (if I knew how to link better, you'd be there ). Sorry.

Guess that's it for now, thank you to those who commented with such lovely comments about my garden pictures. We have had so much rain, it is booming this summer with color. I love that!!

Have a great week!

Suzanne

Happy Birthday America!!

2008-07-01T13:09:00.018-04:00

Happy Birthday!!

Off for a weeks vacation at my SIL's beautiful home north of Chicago. We will be spending our time tubing, boating, jetskiing, and of course laying in the sun, reading and knitting will be my options of choice. We will be lucky enough to have several family members there, who live quite a distance. One Aunt and Uncle from Florida, and another from California. It will be great to see them. We have a lot of fun together. I hope you can spend some of this holiday surrounded by those you love. I thought I would leave you all with something totally different this week. Pictures of my gardens. My other SIL sent me some pics of her gardens, and I thought it would be pretty to share some of mine with you. I hope you enjoy the pics and enjoy your holiday, however you choose to spend it.

Happy 4th.

Suzanne

Elephants, Turtles and Frogs, Oh My!

2008-06-27T19:20:00.007-04:00

Yes, I have been up to my ears in animals. I finally finished Susan B. Anderson's Elephante. Only started the thing several months ago, but now that I am under a deadline (my nephew's 1st birthday, July 26th) I get it done. It really was an easy knit, but the changing color thing every two rows got to me when doing the trunk. But, he turned out cute, hope Lance likes him. Then I have been bitten by the amigurumi bug. I probably spelled it wrong, but I think you know what I mean. I found the most adorable frog and turtle from http://lionbrandyarn.com/. Their free pattern library is very nice, and these guys were just too cute. Took me two days to make both of them. I just love that little frog. Might make one for me. No kidding. :) Need to start on his hat, going to say no more, cuz I think his mom reads my blog. She'll see it soon enough. I am going to Chicago to my SIL's in a couple days, and I have packed enough knitting projects to last me a month. Hmmmmmmmmmm. Oh yeah, kids, responbilities, blah, blah, blah. :).

My youngest son got a little bent today, when he saw my blog and saw that I have posted pics of my oldest son, and my dog, so in order to please him, here is a picture of him. He just turned 12 last month, and is a wonderful son. A little goofy. Did I type that out loud? We love you, " Stinky." Yes, don't get offended, that is his nickname. Please, no letters.

Guess I am off to start Lance's hat. Hope you have a wonderful and relaxing weekend. Thanks for stopping.

Suzanne

I'm Back!

2008-06-23T09:57:00.007-04:00

Okay I'm back. After a weeks vacation, I figure I better update this, I have so much to share. Went camping for a week with family and friends. Our church does a "Family Camp" for the weekend, and we had about 25 or so families represented. We do Hobo Pie Night, a potluck and then church on Sunday, the rest of the time is spent by the pool, reading, various other activites that one would do camping. We had good weather and a relaxing time. We stay at a beautiful campground in Ludington, called Poncho's Pond. Nan and Poncho are fabulous people, very willing to help, and you won't find a cleaner park. Thanks Nan and Poncho!! Of course, that meant I had to visit Nautical Knits, which is a wonderfully packed knitting store in downtown Ludington. Yes, I did buy stuff. Not as much as I would have liked, but enough!! Very fun.

Just to go back and catch up on a few things, before we left, I got my June dishcloth swap stuff. Connie R. sent me two beautifully knit dishcloths, and some fun BBQ things, and a cool postcard with a soup recipe and a nice handwritten note. I always do this when I send out stuff, I think its a nice touch. Thanks again, Connie.

In other news, the next few photos, are of my almost 20 year old son, and his totally put together go cart. He has been talking about doing this since he was like a sophmore in high school. He has been collecting parts from everybody, and he finally got it done. I even drove it. I am very proud of him. He was too. We told him Henry Ford started somewhere too!! :)

My socks are almost done, Family Camp is hard place to knit. Lots of people always around. We leave next week for my SIL in Gurnee, Illinois for a week. I also have only one child this week, as the rest are at camp!! This means lots of mom, knitting time. Who does laundry, really people!!! :) Guess I better go unload the camper, however, some work must be done. Hope your having a great summer, too. Thanks for visiting.

Suzanne

Gown Yokes and Boudoir Caps

2008-06-11T13:31:00.018-04:00

Okay, did that get your attention? I was doing some cleaning:( and came across a strange box. I found a bunch of old mostly crochet books. The oldest is from 1915 and that is where I found the title for this post. I mean look at some of these pictures.

Look at the boudoir caps on the right picture. They are beautiful, but those are a lot of work just to sleep in!! All these booklets date from 1915-1917. They cost 10 cents each. Wow! The next batch was from the 1930's.

The coolest ones was a booklet called Neckwear. Just look at this picture. Who would do all this work? And better yet, who would really wear this thing?

Even more, this hat, which is from the booklet on the top of the 1930's pile. It is called, Coolie. I just think this is so cool. Oh, forgive the bad, didn't mean to, pun. I also saw this pattern towards the back of booklet. The next pile is dated from the 1940's.

The Learn How Book, in the back,(the green one), has everything from crochet, knitting, tatting, and even embroidery. For still only 10 cents, it has tons of patterns in it.

The yellow book, I found very cute, it was one of the brighest colored ones I'd seen. Still only 10 cents, from the American Thread Company, dated 1944, it has not only patterns for some very interestingly crocheted potholders, but also recipes for things like, Parsley Puffs and Russian Pilaf. Too funny. Maybe my dishcloth swap friends better watch out, you never know if I might include one of these little guys in my swap :).This last batch is from the 1950's. I noticed a lot more color and more things for babies. One of the cutest ones (on the right) is a booklet called "Television and Radio Scarfs". Guess that was the point in history, where the tv had hit the family scene, and people were switching from radio to television. And some thought it would never catch on. :) Well, that is your history lesson for today. Hope it wasn't boring. I do collect antiques, and I am a history major, but I think to see how (mostly) crochet has changed and how it hasn't over the years, actually, if you think about it, almost a century. Remember, the earliest one dated 1915.! Please let me know your thoughts on this post. I found many of these booklets to be in excellent shape, and I will be selling some on ebay. Thanks for looking!

Suzanne

One lone Sock!!

2008-06-04T16:14:00.005-04:00

Okay well not quite two, but at least one is done. This pattern is actually from Plymouth Yarn Co. Just their basic ribbed sock. But, it is the same as the summer anklet sock in the May issue of Creative Knitting Magazine. I had to frog this the first time, b/c I didn't quite understand the heel, but I was just slipping wrong. Now that I have it, I love this pattern. Very simple really. I love the way this yarn did it's stripe thing. Of course I love orange, so there you go. This yarn was 1/2 off at my LYS, I think I paid a whole $2.50 for the one skein, but I will easy get one pair of socks, and probably a few mini pairs (for those cute little keychain socks) Love, love. I will post both socks when the other is done, but my hands need to take a small break from size 2 needles. Think I will do another hyperbolic dishcloth (see below). Really people, I'm not kidding, you should really try them, they are fun and very addicting. Guess that is all for now. However, please pray for Sarah, one of my blogging friends, as she miscarried her baby girl this past week. Hit me like a ton of bricks, we lost twins, 21 years ago, but you never forget. I will be so anxious to see my little ones in Jesus' arms when I get there!! Of course, my grandmothers might have something to say about that! Please remember Sarah and her family. Thanks.

Suzanne

New Stuff and WIP's

2008-05-30T10:34:00.008-04:00

Hi there all,

Just wanted to do a quick post, and show you all what I got from this months dishcloth swap. It was sent from Sue in New Jersey. Thank you so much Sue. She sent a cute little dishcloth, in the shape of a little dress, and the yellow is very cheery. Also, she sent me these "Soap Rocks" Very cool things, not only are they beautiful, they will glisten, if you put them under hot water, or on humid days. So cool. I don't look forward to humid days, but I will try the hot water thing. They are made from all natural ingredients, and smell fabulous. Thanks so much Sue!!

Onto other knitting things, I am redoing my summer ankle socks, after frogging the first ones. I had never done this type of heel before(Sl 1, K1) then Purl the next row. The last heel was a twisted mess, I think I was slipping wrong (you must do it purlwise) And I was doing the slip knit thing way too tight. I ususally don't knit tight, but I was. This is going much better, and I love the way it is stipping. Have seen alot of the Jaywalker socks (can be found on Ravelry) they look cool with the self-striping yarn, except the pattern is like wavey V's. I so know there is a name for that, but I can't think of it. Need more coffee :) Anyway, I am ready to turn this heel, so hopefully soon I will have a least one sock done. I am so in awe of friend Nachaele (sidebar Knit-Eat-Sleep) she does such beautiful work and is sooo fast with her socks, I am amazed! I do owe her an apology, I think she tagged me, and I miss understood. Thought she needed to post that on my blog, before I answered all the questions. I certainly didn't mean to slight her tag, and that will be my next post. I need to see all the questions. Sorry Nachaele. Visit her blog, she is one wonderful knitter. (Seems like a pretty great person too :).

Honor

2008-05-24T08:37:00.003-04:00

Happy Memorial Weekend!

As the mom of a United States Marine, I pray that we all take more than just a moment this weekend, to remember all of those involved in service to our country, and pray for those fighting, even now, to give us the freedom to do all that we do. Thank you son, and all the other sons and daughters who sacrifice so much for our freedom. You are remembered and appreciated! God Bless You All!

Keeping in Touch

2008-05-21T10:14:00.003-04:00

Hi all!

I really don't have much to talk about, but I wanted to touch base with all of you and thank you for stopping by. I have been doing quite a bit of knitting, but nothing to show. I am working on a summer anklet sock, in a great orange stipe. Love the way this is looking, but I am a very slow sock knitter. I also have been doing more of the hyperbolic dishcloths. I love these things. Even if you don't crochet, I challenge you to try these. You can find the stitch on U-tube with the http://theknitwitch.com/ She is wonderfully clear and you can pause,etc. to actually keep up with her. I think I have mentioned her before, but I have gone to her for lots of stitch "looksies." I hope to have lots of pics for you next week, I planted my yard yesterday. Why do I try to do this in one day????????? I am so sore today I can hardly move. I have arthritis, and that kind of stuff just kills me. I swore I would plant more perenials, and less annuals, but I shouldn't go to the greenhouse alone. But, alas, my yard is beautiful. Now I shall sit and knit. Not, today, however, the high is 51 and the wind is cold. But, it is suppose to be in the high 70's this weekend, which is wonderful, cuz we are having about 30 people for Memorial Day!! You will be pictured out. I hope you all are having a great week. Please visit again soon. Thanks for stopping.

Suzanne

Looky What I Got!!

2008-05-14T16:54:00.006-04:00

Wow! My family was sure generous this Mother's Day. I got the coolest birdhouse. I have a camper that I hope to someday soon have looking like this. I also got a planter that looks like a truck. Saw the house at Lowe's and the truck at Micheal's. My oldest son got me the beautiful thermometer. That one is sort of a guilt gift. No, he is a good boy, didn't do anything wrong, except shoot holes in my other one with his airsoft gun. I have been shot in the bum with that thing. Glad he became a Marine, so he could shoot real guns. I have been strongly "hinting" for almost a year. He finally got me a beautiful one. Way beats the other one anyway!! Hee Hee.

Onto knitting. I have actually been crocheting. No, I am not bored with knitting, but if I don't do something when I see it, I kind of forget about it. I saw these on Ravelry and actually downloaded the pattern. Took me now time to do one. Doesn't seem like your doing much till your done, and then viola' it does this. Amazing. This pattern can be found on Ravelry, just type in hyperbolic in the pattern section. Speaking of Ravelry, (I'm gettin on my soapbox) I tried to put one of their buttons on my blog last night, well, as many of you know, if you've read many posts, I am pretty computer stupid. That said, I think building one would be easier. I even went to the help desk. Yeah well, you Don't see a Ravelry button do ya? They tried, but no dice. Guess if its that hard, they really don't want them on too many blogs. Maybe some other time. (I'm off my soapbox now :)

Think I am going to start something with a little substance, especially since I mailed my May dishcloth swap stuff, so I have some time before the next one. Think I am actually going to do a pair of summer socks. Just bought a couple different skeins of summer yarn.Sorry pics of those will have to come later. I'll keep you updated on my progress. Thanks for visiting!!

Suzanne

New Look!!

2008-05-09T15:01:00.009-04:00

Okay, so what do you all think? I needed something new. Really want to put some sort of picture on the header, like I see so many do, but of course, you need to know how to build these things, so I haven't quite figured it out yet. Did have one of my photos there, but it didn't look right. We'll see. I like the lighthouse thing, after all, I do live in Michigan, and actually am 20 minutes from a beautiful lighthouse and boardwalk in Grand Haven, Michigan. If you have any pointers on headers let me know, I 'm sure my kids could tell me a thing or two!! Heading off to church tonight for a mother-daughter banquet. Don't usually do those things, but I know the planners and this will be top notch!! Might even take my camera!! Don't forget Allena'a contest is still going until tomorrow, so click over to her blog to try and beat me for the win!! Guess that's all, I am rambling. Please come back soon. I love it when you visit!!
I have the sweet tea brewing!! Have a wonderful weekend, especially those of you who are mothers or still have their mothers. Proverbs 31:29, "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Happy Mother's Day!!
Suzanne

Contest!!

2008-05-07T10:14:00.007-04:00

Okay friends, step right up(I hate circus's) b/c blogger friend Allena has a wonderful contest going. Follow the link on my sidebar, and see for yourself. It is a beautiful Sock Wars bag. Wow, a great knitter and seamstress, I am envious!! Have fun!! Also, visit her esty shop through this link, she has some amazing bags. Might need to do some shopping!!
http://starknits.esty.com Sorry, this isn't working for reasons that are way beyond me. Please do go to her site on my sidebar, and that will get you there. I might go for the pokadot one!! Yummy!
Have a great day!
Suzanne

Latest FO's

2008-05-06T10:21:00.005-04:00

I have been bitten a little bit by the crochet bug, just finished a cute little clutch purse out of the "Happy Hooker" and am starting the "Fat bottom bag" out of the same book. I learned how to crochet years ago, from my grandmother, but forgot how to half-double crochet. Went to the Knitwitch, and she has great videos, she does it slow and clearly enough, that you can stitch right along with her. Wonderful resource. I also made (knit) a quick plastic bag holder. See my Ravelry projects for where I got this, I apologize I don't have that info here. Might use this in my camper, too. Have you seen the new skeins of Sugar n' Cream. They are on steroids! They are a whopping 710 yards. I found my two at Micheal's for $7.99 and with a 40% off coupon, they are a steal. Also picked up a little pamphlet with lots of cute ideas. Everything from a bathmat, to dishcloths, to market totes. Fun summertime knitting or crocheting!!

Here is that clutch purse with some cute vintage buttons. Wanted to make a loom flower like the pattern calls for, but went to Micheals and Hobby Lobby, and neither one had anything like it. Just the big looms. The people at Micheals didn't even know what I was talking about. Does anyone know where I can get one. It needs to have two rows of pegs on the same circle. One larger and one smaller. Any online sources would be nice if you know them. Thanks.

Suzanne

It's May!!

2008-05-02T09:31:00.004-04:00

Let's hope this means no snow, (don't snicker, it has been known to happen in Michigan in May!!). Things are really starting to bloom around here. Don't have a lot of nice pics for that. I think I need a new camera!! My close ups aren't that great with mine. So, I thought I would post a few other pics. Remember dinner from the other night, well we had shephards pie. I made it up, but everyone liked it. Probably because I put ketchup in it. My oldest doesn't eat anything without ketchup, it is a major food group for him, he even has the T-shirt. Been a busy few days, spring cleaning in our master bedroom, took care of my 9 month old cutest nephew in the world, yesterday, and have been running kids to various doctors appointments. Oh by the way, our middle son, the one who had the appendectomy in late January, is finally healed. PTL!! His wound finally closed up about a week and a half ago. Wow, what a long haul for him. At least he can enjoy his summer in pools and lakes, etc. I have been knitting up a storm. Started a new dishcloth for my May swap, sorry, can't show pics. Its a secret. I have been a purse mad woman, however. Just off the hook actually, was the little clutch from Stitch N' *****. Yes, it is actually crocheted. It was very simple, and is really cute. Will line it and my Isabeau purse, today. Need to go to Hobby Lobby and get some plastic canvas, for the Isabeau, as the yarn I used is a little flimsy. But, that should do it. I'll have final pics, soon. Oh, you must go visit Lucinda Guy's new website, http://lucindaguy.com/ she has the cutest little site, and a cute little "snoozing Ned" for a free download. I just looked over one of her books recently, they are very sweet. Think my cutest nephew in the world might be getting one of these for his birthday. Thank goodness I have until July. Thanks for visiting. Have a great weekend!!

Suzanne

I'm Addicted!!

2008-04-25T17:31:00.004-04:00

To Totebags that its!! I did this one in one day!! Wow! And NO, it isn't in green!! Told ya I could do it!! Purple is another favorite color:) This was a crocheted bag, which the handle took longer than the entire bag. I used a size E hook. The stitch is called the hexagonal stitch. If you can link to Ravelryhttp://ravelry.com/ it is on there under Zandersmom. I think I cast on a few too many stitches in the handle, but it works for me. I got the pattern from http://orangeflower.typepad.com/. Think I might make another Elisa Tote though, but I will keep this one around for sure. Who knows, I might get overrun with totes!! Better go get supper out of the oven, I smell it, Yum. Maybe I'll take a picture of that (lol). Have a wonderful weekend. Keep knitting.Suzanne. P.S. See the photo at the top? That thread is all I had left!! :) Whew!!

I'm Excited Again!!

2008-04-24T14:50:00.004-04:00

I really need to think of better titles, but I am excited!! I just finished my first KAL project!!! My Elisa Nest Tote is done!!! I like the tote very much, and will do it again, in fact, I'm looking for yarn as soon as I post this, however, I think I will make a few modifications. Thanks to Jessica at Naturallyknitty for organizing this!! I had so much fun!! I really like the handles for this, attached I-cord, really not hard, and the look just amazes me. Here are some pics. One is before the handles went on. Has anyone noticed I like green?? Everything I have made lately has been green. Promise I will pick a different color for the next one. Stay tuned!!

Spring Has Sprung!!

2008-04-18T08:37:00.006-04:00

Actually, to be more accurate, it has bounded in, but the title thing would 't have worked. :) Really though, it is beautiful. It's suppose to be 70+ today. I plan on sitting on my porch and knittting. Not much is blooming yet, so no spring pics, but I am sure by next week we'll have something.

Bigger news, I guess lots of people here woke this morning to an earthquake. I personally didn't feel it, but there are a few crooked pictures. Whoa, we live in Michigan. Weird!!!

Have been knitting dishcloths alot. Trying to finish my KAL, the Elisa Tote. I am done with the bag, need to do the side seems and then the handle. I have done these kinds of handles before (attached I cord) and love them, just always put them off. Maybe after the weekend, as we will be entertaining my parents, and I want just mindless. Here are a few that I did. One is from the latest issue of Creative Knitting, the Embossed Daisy, was very fun and easy. The other came out of May 2007 issue of same magazine. It is called Spring is in the Air, but you should have repeated the pattern again, but I thought I'd have a towel by then, maybe next time, I would do it on smaller needles. Maybe size 6. It was a fun pattern. Guess that's everything for now, need to go finish things for my parents arrival. Chat Later!!

Okay, just realized I haven't taken a picture of the other dishcloth. I will post tomorrow, so for now I will add the little fish tawashi that I made. It is very cute, was very quick, about 1/2 hour, but I would probably do two next time and seam them together. Maybe even put some scrubby material in the middle (sorry name of stuff eludes me). Anyway, enjoy that pic and have a great weekend!!

FO

2008-04-15T08:11:00.004-04:00

Okay, first of all, let me say that after my rant last night, I went back to the Ravelry help chat desk, and they got me pics!!! They were so awesome!! I felt really bad for them, they would tell me to do something, but assumed I knew something of what I was doing, and they'd have to go back and step by step me. And they did!! They were more than gracious with me, as were a few people that had to wait until they were done with me. I even sent a return email to Frecklegirl to thank them all. I was sooooooo impressed!!! So, if you see me on Ravelry as Zandersmom, I have pics. The only problem is, is that I don't have pics of everything I have ever knitted. Most of the stuff I have given away. So, we'll start with some things I have done a go on from there. Okay, had to start there. No, she isn't knitted, but she is the very spoiled dog named Mia that I mentioned in my bio. She is very sweet.

Okay, Might need some help in how to place these things. Do you add pics first, how do you type around them? The scarf is a drop stitch one that I did quite a while back, just liked the yarn. The scarf was fun and very fast. I was going to post more pics, but I will wait to see if I get an needed advice from you all. Thanks for your patience with me, and my lack of computer skills. Have a great day!

Big Time!

2008-04-14T19:33:00.002-04:00

Okay I'm moving up in cyberspaceville. I now have a Flickr runner thingy(get it now:)0n my sidebar. I still can't get pics to go into my Ravelry pages, except for a post. I have spent all day, literally, and had sort of help from a DH and Son who just keep saying, "What is Ravelry?" "What is this Flickr thing?" You see my problem. The help desk thing on Ravelry helped a little, but can't figure it out either. What is one to do. I went straight to the top. Sent Frecklegirl an email, she said to go to the help desk. I am about to log out of this whole computer thing, except I think I'm hooked. Is there anybody out there who knows what their talking about???????? Okay, off my soapbox now, gonna go get my blood pressure up again, and try to figure this out. Anyway, enjoy the Flickr. It might be all you get :)

Learning Lots

2008-04-13T13:34:00.002-04:00

I all. Just got back from two days of Precept training in Elkhart, Indiana. I took a Greek Word Studies class on Friday, and spent the day Saturday learning how to fine tune my teaching skills. Both classes were extremely informative and helpful. I had done some Greek Word Studies, but feel like I have a much better grasp on how to use the resources available out there. The next class was dedicating to leading effective discussions. Effective being the key word there. Learned much and am ready for my next conference. Its great to hear other stories about how the Lord leads and directs from other people and their classes.
Got no knitting done, but that's okay. I will have pics to post later in the week. Please continue to pray for my son, remember his appendecotmy? Well, the wound is STILL open and there might be an abcess in one of the suitures. If it doesn't heal up in two weeks, the doctor will need to reopen it, take out the stitch, and continue this whole process. He's pretty tired of it, and I can't blame him, he has been a trooper.
Oh, my partner in the dishcloth swap received her package from me. She posted a lovely thank you, and I am glad it arrived safely, and that she had fun opening everything. It is pretty fun!!!!
Guess I'll sign off for now, I'll be back later with pics. Thanks for looking!!
Suzanne

Modest Purls: A Contest, Come and Play!

2008-04-07T10:18:00.000-04:00

Modest Purls: A Contest, Come and Play!

Dishcloth Swap and Pics!!!

2008-04-05T20:53:00.002-04:00

Wow, am I moving up in the world!! Thanks to my DH I now have pics!! One couldn't be more excited. The wonderful items you are seeing are from my swap partner, Debbie. If you can't see it real good, the cute cloth says, "relax." The bag is so cute and the bath products smell wonderful!! I can't wait until I can make a washcloth out of the yarn. Thanks alot Debbie, you made my first swap just great!! I shall try to post more pics, the problem is I am so behind, I want to post everything now, good for you, not so easy still for me. Hopefully no one will change how this is done before I really learn how to do this. Anyway, I am still working on the Dantes Purse, the base is done, but need to cut out the material. Also, spring has sprung here in Michigan. Finally!! Today was beautiful, @63 degrees, so we were outside all day in the yard. Gee maybe I can post some spring pics. Are you praying real hard LOL. I'll try soon. Who knows. Hope your having a great weekend. Thanks for looking!!
Suzanne

Happy April

2008-04-02T11:50:00.002-04:00

Welcome to April everyone!! Yes, we actually had snow yesterday, although it did not stick, but today is beautiful with promises for a better week. Our week has started out a little hard, we had to have our beloved cat of 10 years put down this morning. Sent three crying kids to school, of course, I wasn't much better. She had diabetes, and that was the only thing they diagnosed. The dr. felt something in her stomach, so I assume there was more to it than that. It is a sad day around here, but this too shall pass. Please pray for my kids, as this isn't as easy for them.
I have been doing a lot of knitting, I am starting my first swap, got my partner today, will be anxious to send her all my little goodies. Also started my first KAL project. This is a fun knit, and I am excited about finishing it. Guess that's all for now, I don't seem to feel very chatty.
Have a great day!
Suzanne

Excited Again!!

2008-03-28T09:23:00.003-04:00

Okay, first of all, for all those bloggers who are posting pics of lovely springtime things, the only thing I could show is SNOW!! We got another inch or so last night. I know, its only March and its Michigan. Hopefully I'll have something springy to show soon. I have been working on a few things, but first let me add what I am so excited about again. I joined my first KAL. I know, I know so exciting! Go see my friend Jessica at Naturallyknitty and she'll get you all set up. We will be knitting the Elisa's Nest Tote. What a great idea for a spring project Jessica, especially with summer(hopefully) right around the corner. I can't wait to get started. The hardest decision is what color??? Maybe I'll do several............hmmmmmmm. Anyway, onto other subjects. My bible study class just started Ruth. I am teaching it this time. Still learning. Also my daughter and I went to see Jenison's Musical last night. They did a wonderful job with "Annie." Very fun. Also to be excited about, the dishcloth swap sign up closes today, so I will hear soon who my partner is. I have collected lots of things, and already finished the dishcloth, but I am anxious to learn specifics about this person, so I can send her special things that see likes. I will be anxious for my goodies as well. Hope you all have a great weekend.
Suzanne

Snow Total

2008-03-22T11:28:00.002-04:00

Okay, I promised a snow total. This isn't official, but after you've lived in Michigan for years, your good at estimating. I'll bet we got almost a foot. Enough to get the plows back out, the shovel's and make driving difficult. Today, however, the snow has stopped and our reward is a beautifully sunny day. I am doing lots of baking, (mini muffins) and preparing for Easter dinner tomorrow, which I am hosting for my in laws, sister-in-law and later in the day, his brothers family. I love entertaining and family is so nice a casual, although my kids claim that I only "cook fancy" when we have company. Well, my buzzer just went off, need to get the muffins. Have a blessed Resurrection Sunday!!
Suzanne

Snow - Oh No!!

2008-03-21T14:13:00.002-04:00

Yes folks, this is not a typo, it is snowing!! We are suppose to get up to 8 inches. I'm goin' for that fat little ground hog :) We have already gotten about 2 inches in less than an hour, and did everybody forget how to drive!!! Oh boy. Need to go to my "happy place" Anybody know a good, and cheap desserted island!!!!!!!!!!! Just finishing up a few projects,since its snowing...........yeah, like I need an excuse:) Almost done with the Isabeau Purse by Sylvie Damey. Find her and it on Ravelry. Very cute, very little. Did some little pincushions too. One was with a small ball jar, and the other was done on top of a basket. See the zakkalife site on my sidebar. She is so wonderfully talented. So easy............so cute. Guess that's it for now. I'll let you know how much snow we end up getting, as this winter snow warning goes until tomorrow morning. Ugh!!!!

So Excited!!

2008-03-12T18:07:00.002-04:00

Yes, I'm back. When did February end and March be half over. Whoa! I have been so busy. Just an update on our son. He is much better, in school full time, but I am still packing his wound twice a day, there is still some infection. He is really sick of this, but is a trooper. Okay, the reason for the title. I just sent out my Angel Cloth for a dishcloth swap on a yahoo group. I think you can still join, doesn't really start until April. I have my first dishcloth done, can't wait to get some cool stuff from other knitters around the country. Dee has done a fabulous job organizing this. Thanks Dee. I know this seems like a small thing, and it is, that's the point. I know I couldn't handle socks, or anything bigger. I'm just not that fast yet. I will let you know what happens when I get my package. I also think I have figured out how to bypass the picture thing, so hopefully soon we will have pics. The biggest problem, is going to be not posting everything at once. I am still in the middle of a few things, so hopefully they will be wrapping up soon.
My Precept bible study got started last week in full force. I am so excited to be teaching. We are doing Titus. There is alot there, for such a little book. Last week was an overview, and this week we will be comparing the godly to the ungodly there in Crete and of course, it mimicks what we see today in our world. Only one more week then of Titus and we are off to Ruth and Kinsman Redeemer. It is so cool to see the threads weave throughout God's Word. Our God is good!!
Spring break is close, think I was reading on some blog (sorry can't remember who) that they are already having SB. Is everything early this year. Easter, Daylight Savings, elections... need I say more! What's up??
Guess I'll log off, I feel like I am rambling. One more thing though, I have also been beading my own stitch markers, I don't use many, as I don't really do sweaters, but I have some really cute ones. They are so easy to do. There are some great tutorials, just google "stitch markers". Thanks for listening, and keep knitting!!
Suzanne

Extra Day!!

2008-02-29T08:54:00.002-05:00

If this is an extra day that we've been given, wouldn't it be nice to stay in bed all day, read, knit. Did someone say knit!! yEA!! It is snowing here again, several inches expected, but it is very slippery. I am soooo ready for spring. Trying to finish some socks, ready to turn the heel, which is not hard, just always put it off, but once I turn, the heel is so quick. Need to finish my purse, have it all knitted, lining cut, just need to assemble. It's been that way for a month. Our son is finally back to school full time. Comes home kind of tired, still naps some, but his incision is almost all closed up. Been a long month though.
Started teaching my first Precept class yesterday. How exciting!! I have 12 people in the class, which is good and all but two have never done Precept before. We are doing Titus. Then we will be going straight into Ruth. I just love it when I see people getting this excited about digging into God's Word. The truths you can find, even in familiar scripture, is amazing. If you've never tried this method of study, I would challenge you to find a class near you, or leave me a comment, and perhaps I can help you find a class. You'll discover scripture like never before....promise!!
Had an interesting thing happen this past week, one of my LYS had a building explode behind it b/c of a gas leak. Luckily no one was killed, and the LYS walked away with not even any smoke damage. I haven't been there for a few months, but I love the store. It is called City Knitting, in Easttown, in Grand Rapids. Wonderful store and people. If you are on Ravelry, they have a group by the same name, look them up. Those of us who love the store are very thankful that they were not hurt or lost everything. Please pray for several business owners who did lose everything. Guess that's about it. I promise I am working on pics. Thanks for visiting.
Suzanne

Again!

2008-02-17T14:08:00.002-05:00

Just realized all that has happened since I posted last. Saturday, the 9th of Feb, our son ended up back in the emergency room, with a wound infection. I'll spare you the gory details, but we were all pretty shaken up, and our thanks to Dr. Pete for giving us call ahead seating at the emergency room. This visit was more tramatic for our son, the doctor had to open his wound, and we have to pack it twice a day with wet gauze. It causes alot of pain, but should get better. The wound will have to heal from the inside out, instead of the other way around. Thanks to two "angel" nurses from church, who came this past week and did it for me. I am doing it now, it isn't the goriness, its causing your child pain that is very difficult. He is going to try a 1/2 day of school tomorrow, so keep him in your prayers. Thanks. Knitting has been productive. A little boring, as I am making the nurses (7) all the same facecloth. The pattern is from Foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. She is listed on my sidebar, check out her blog. My dad is from Tennessee, and I have spent alot of time there. Don't tell my yankee husband, but that is where my heart is. By the way, he already knows. :) The pattern, is Lacy Picot Swirl Cloth. Looks like it should be done in the round, but it isn't, very cool how it works up. Very nice pattern and blog. Check her out. After these, I'll get back to my socks. Hopefully before spring comes. Which by the way, I am soooooooo ready for. Could someone please shoot the groundhog. Only kidding, don't believe that anyway. LOL. Hopefully, things will settle down here a little a get back to normal. Not really sure if we ever were, but our normal will work. Hope you have a great week.
Suzanne

Long/Short Week

2008-02-08T11:44:00.000-05:00

Really depends on how you look at that one. Seems like I haven't gotten anything done this week, yet I've been so busy, that I haven't gotten anything done. No, that wasn't a typo!! Our son is still on the mend, takes a long time to get his strength back, and were still waiting for things to move. If you've ever had abdominal surgery, you'll know what I mean. I have gotten alot of knitting done. Hard to start long projects around the house, he still requires alot of help. I finished the Mason-Dixon Washcloth, the round one, not the Ballband one. Trying to find something quick for his nurses, but I'm not sure that was it. Really need to concentrate during the first 6 rounds, I'm sure that will get easier everytime I do it, but really the whole pattern takes careful following of the pattern. Hard to get interrupted, and its difficult to tell if or where you might have made a mistake. I have the cute pedal washcloths out of Melanie Falick's Weekend Knitting Book, that I think I'll try. Need to get 5 done by next Friday. Have a good weekend.
Suzanne

Always the Unexpected!

2008-02-04T19:45:00.002-05:00

Sorry I havent' posted in a week, our 14 year old son had an emergency apendectomy on Thursday morning at 6:00 a.m. Long story, but he was a sick little guy, and just came home about an hour ago. I have been at the hospital with him, so we are both anxious to sleep in our own beds, with no nurses or doctors coming in at all hours. I do have to say, that his surgeon was fabulous and compassionate(no, those two don't necessarily go together) and the nurses, I just couldn't even say enough about them. They were patient with both of us, and were very supportive. I am exhausted, but did manage to crochet my first scarf. Also have a pair of socks almost ready to turn the heel. Guess that is all for now, don't want to babble too much, not sure this will even make sense after some sleep. God was good, and allowed us to get him to the hospital before it burst, we were close. Still keep him in your prayers, as he continues to recover, and we are praying that his infection, which got into his body, b/c the appendix had perferrated, will not return. Thanks again.
Suzanne

What a Difference a Week Makes

2008-01-28T09:28:00.000-05:00

Wow that is so true. Today is beautiful. Very sunny and no snow!!! Yes, I still have my coffee!!!!!!! Am almost finished with my knitting needle purse, I got the back done, started the front, when I was very tired, and had to frog it after about 4 rows, shouldn't knit while I'm tired. But, I started over and we are about half way through. I bought the greatest fabric to line it can't wait to show you. Had the computer guy here yesterday, but alas, we are still working on this picture thing. Is it really that hard?? Also started a fun thing yesterday, I forget where I saw this original idea, but I am painting the tops of my knitting needles with finernail polish. They look very cute and don't hinder the knittting or ruin the needles. Just cute. Bought some yarn this weekend to start Susan B. Anderson's "Elephante". I know your suppose to use your stash, but I didn't have enough in the same gauge. Bought small skeins and not very expensive yarn, something that can be washed. I think I shall knit up two, one for my neice(don't tell Rhonda) and for my nephew. Speaking of my nephew, I got to take care of him Friday, for a couple hours. As I was feeding him his last bottle of the night, while he was all cozy in his fleece-feeted pjs, took me back almost 20 years ago, when I was feeding my first. He'll be 20 in July. My how time flies. When did I blink!! Guess that is it for now, I have to go knit elephants:)

Wednesday,More Coffee and More Snow!

2008-01-23T18:55:00.000-05:00

Okay, two days later, and it still hasn't stopped snowing. We now have several feet(at least) and its still falling. It is pretty though to get a new covering every morning. Gee that reminds me of a bible verse......Lam.3:23. Have been knitting a bag with the "bramble stitch" just a series of purl 3tog. and then in the next stitch, you k1,p1,k1. It is quite cool. If you are a Ravelry member, you can look up knitting needles bag by Pam Allen. Its also in my notebook, which is under Zandersmom. It is going really quickly, and what is so cool besides the stitch, is that you use size 15 needles for the ends(top) . Very cool. Hop onto Ravelry.com for a look. Haven't gotten an invite yet? Have you entered for an invite? Its super easy, and as I've said before, a very helpful organizational tool. Guess that's it. Coffee's gone, Wednesday is almost over, and well the snow...............Isn't.

Monday,Coffee and Snow

2008-01-21T08:42:00.000-05:00

Well, in case anyone was wondering, winter has officially arrived in Michigan. Holy Cow. I don't think it has stopped snowing here since Friday, and we're suppose to get 3-5 more today, with 1-3 expected tonight. It sure is pretty though. The coffee is good and strong, which one needs on a snowy, Monday morning. I have been knitting up stuff as fast as the snow is coming down. Almost finished with the fingerless mitts. No, they don't take this long, just more stuff gets in the way. Remember the book post? Anyway, did one of the Ballband dishcloths from Mason-Dixon Knitting. Love, Love,Love this pattern. Went to my sister-in-laws on Saturday, and she did one with cotton as her background color, and then did the "stripes" with a wool, then put it in and shrunk it. Like you would felt anything else.. Absolutely inspirational, what resulted, was a little smaller dishrag (I loved the size, it is pretty big) and it was so soft, with the "felted" rows. Would almost make a wonderful face cloth!! UMMMM!! Then I saw on Ravelry, a pattern for a "Nubby" Dishrag. What a cute little thing, just kind of reminded me of vintage for some reason. Very cute and easy. Please go to http://inahappycamper.eponym.com/blog for the complete pattern. It's really fun and easy. Bible studies are going good. We are working on Beth Moore's Daniel in Sunday School. We are just starting all the prophetic stuff, with lots of references to Revelation. Wow, and I've studied Revelation a couple times, it still makes you stop and think. Lots to keep straight. Does anyone know the four names for the "Little Horn" mentioned in Daniel 7:8? This is a toughy, and yes Rhonda please add your "two cents" :) I had heard all the other four names, and knew they referred to the same being, just didn't know that it was to little horn. Interesting!!!!!!!!!!!! My other study on Ruth will actually be done next week, then I may be teaching a Precept Study. Yikes. Not sure what I'll be teaching yet, going to seek out some godly counsel tomorrow, from someone who has taught lots of them. I'm really not sure "Covenant" would be a good place to start, like jumping into the deep end with a brick!!!!!!!!!!:) Guess that's about all for now. I need to go knit and study, and yes, maybe through a load in the washer. Oh well.
Suzanne

Ruth Revealed

2008-01-14T09:11:00.001-05:00

Okay, so it is the only title I could think of on only one cup of coffee. However, besides my very wise sister-in-law, did anyone figure out my question? I knew the answer, thought I'd throw it out there and see. Ruth, at the feet of Boaz is a beautiful picture of submission. It was a marriage proposal and was the culture, but it certainly is a good reminder of how we need to submit to God in our lives. I'm pretty sure the Lord is speaking to me. I like the obvious!! I have been feeling the Lord's leading me in my life to something different, didn't know what, but I have gotten alot of confirmation this past weekend, and I always tell the Lord, that I need obvious. Well, as always He comes through. I won't go into details here, but I have been asked to teach(possibly sooner than I thought)the Precept class at our church. Something which I really feel the Lord's leading,then I would have to give up teaching my small group(which I love). However, read a devotional this morning and the verse was John 15:1-2. Where it says, "I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away, and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit." The devotion went on to talk about changes in our lives, and how God brings those about, so we can move perhaps to an area that we will be more effective. The Lord does not train his people for no reason. Please pray, as I continue to listen for the Lord's leading. The class I have been asked to teach in on Covenant, talk about diving into the deep end!! But, I know through my weakness, he is made strong. I feel very inadequate to teach such a subject, but it sure would be Christ in me. God's perfect timing is everything!!
For His Purpose,
Suzanne

Some changes

2008-01-10T12:51:00.001-05:00

Okay, many years ago, my mother-in-law wouldn't buy me any more books, because I wouldn't read the ones I had, or it was more like I'd start one and then get excited about another one, and have 4 or 5 books going at the same time. Now, the only difference is, I can't seem to finish a knitting project without starting another one. By the way, I did manage to conquer the book thing. So, I guess I can do the same with knitting. Started on the fingerless mitts, got one done, then I went to baby mitts, and then to Christmas ornaments(don't ask :)). I think you get the idea.
Anyway, like the title of today's post indicates, I have some new things. I know, pics are coming, I promise. However, as I was on the phone with my mom, I got linked into my brothers family blogspot. You will see it to the right. They have 10 great kids, and please visit their blog, its a little better than mine, maybe I can solicite some help from my neice. After all, I did teach two of them to knit ....Hint, Hint. We have a lot of fun when we are together, which isn't often enough, but they are a fun family, as you'll see from their blog.
Started my Precept class Tuesday night!! We are studying the book of Ruth and Kinsman Redeemer. Have all the work done already, so I am anxious for the discussion next week, b/c I am a little confused. I think its probably the times of the culture. Ok, what am I confused about? One of the questions that stumped me, is on Ruth 3, where she goes to Boaz on the threshing floor. Question is, what was she doing? What was she wanting from Boaz? I think I know, but a few verses before that Boaz states that she is a woman of noble character, so my confusion is, is what she did okay for noble women of the day? or am I so confused by our bad culture, that I am reading something into it? Hope this has been clear as mud. Sorry.

Not camera ready yet

2008-01-08T09:17:00.001-05:00

Well, got the docking station moved, even took a few pics, but haven't quite got them to here yet. I was setting up my Ravelry notebook, which I love, and realized that most of the FO's that I have done in the last 2 years have gone out the door. I have given probably 90% of what I've done away. So, my pics are of more recent things, and maybe now I can get them cataloged before they go. My latest project, the fingerless mitts out of "Speed Knitting" by Chris Percival, are on the needles, almost finished with one, but of course, can I stick to just one project. NO. I started some baby mitts for my nephew. She reminded me yesterday, that I was going to do a set for him, and after Christmas, we have hit the ground running, and I kind of forgot. So, last night I went through my stash, and found enough "OhMY" yarn to make some lucious mint green mitts. Have one done already and will easy finish the other hopefully this morning. Will try the other pair in CottonTots, blues. However, the weather here is nuts. All of our several feet of snow is gone, yesterday was 65degrees, we will pay for this in April, when we are ready for spring. But wait, this is Michigan, and as they say, "Wait 5 minutes,and the weather will probably change." :) We'll see what tomorrow brings. Onto another subject, our Sunday School class has started the second part of our Beth Moore, Daniel study. This part is all about prophecy. I love this stuff. Trying to get ahead a little, as it takes some serious concentration, when your trying to keep all this stuff straight in your head. Also starting a new bible study tonight, which is a Precept class, and is very time consuming. Hopefully the knitting won't suffer, the housecleaning might though(lol). Well onto studying for a while. Then knitting....then studying....no knitting...............

Ravelry Invite

2008-01-02T10:16:00.000-05:00

Wow, got my Ravelry invite this morning. I was so excited, that really didn't take very long. Couple of weeks. What a tool!! So much organizational stuff, just under your notebook section. Not to mention the rest of the fun stuff. Organization seems to be a theme for me doesn't it? Maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something :) My username for Ravelry is Zandersmom. Please visit me there as well, I know, I know, I need to get my pics posted. I'm really trying. Please be patient with me.
As for my current projects, I am almost finished with a scarf. I know, kind of boring, but it is my first scarf, doing various lengths of stripes. Kind of fun. It is for a friends daughter away at college. I hope everyone had a great New Years. I realized, as I got into the Ravelry thing this morning, how many projects I have waiting in the wings. Wow.

A few FO's

2007-12-28T09:40:00.000-05:00

I finally finished my sister in laws, neck cowl. I used Bernat Alpaca, and I actually did the pattern incorrectly. It called for a four row pattern and I missed the fact that one of the rows you repeat, but instead of the holes coming out in a line, they were veregated, kind of neat, and no one but me and the pattern designer would know it. I will try very hard to post a picture by the end of the day. It went fairly quickly, and I might even make myself one. Does anyone really knit for themselves?:) I have made so many things this past year, and given most of them away. That's really okay though, I like to see the faces of people who receive the stuff I make. I also have finished some quick and easy projects, like the knitted mug warmers from Interweave Press "Holiday Gifts" magazine. Wow, are these easy, quick and very fun to make. Makes for a nice little stocking stuffer.
I don't usually make new years resolutions, but I am going to try to be more organized with my knitting, and hopefully a least get the ideas down and perhaps even start knitting for Christmas before October. (lol)
Of course, that is after I teach and prepare for all the Bible studies I am involved with. My sunday school is doing Beth Moore's "Daniel". Wow, I didn't know there was so much in that book. Amazing what Beth does with it. God sure has given her insight. I am also preparing to take a Precept class on Ruth. If you are not familiar with a precept class, it is a very indepth study, and for someone who is an English major, I just love it.

First Post to New Blogspot

2007-12-27T17:19:00.000-05:00

I am really new to this, decided on a whim to develop a blog, so here it goes. I really decided to name my blog what I did, because I plan to share many things that I love. I love the Lord, my family, knitting,etc. I have listed lots of them in my profile. I am a fairly new knitter, I guess, I have only been doing it seriously for about 2 years. I mostly get my inspiration from lots of sources, books, magazines, on-line,etc. I need to get a little better at cataloging my creations. I have quite a few, so far though, kind of small stuff. I get bored easy, and always want to start a new project. I did not get everything done for Christmas, but no one but me knows it. I did do a lot, kind of waited to long for ideas and to get started. Trying (along with getting organized) to start planning ahead now, and at least get some ideas down in a book. If you happen to have stumbled upon my blogspot, please be patient with me and come back especially with any helpful suggestions or tips. Thanks for reading my blog.