A Crafters journal

A Christmas Manifesto

2011-12-01T18:56:00.000-06:00

Here's to the Holiday...I hope to keep the spirit of Christmas evident this year. I want to focus on the Reason for the Season. I hope to encourage those around me to want to embrace the season. I want my children to be aware of the purpose of the season. I hope to make time each day for me in reflection of the day and how I am keeping this time a time of reflection and enjoyment.

Every year I look forward to keeping a journal of pictures and writing to focus on Christmas the past and the present, the good and the bad. It has made want to try new things(advent calendar) and understand my past as well. I will try to post some of my pages here. I will probably blog about the prompt though. I have not finished a journal yet but have fun trying. If you like to join me in doing a journal just click on one of the journal your christmas links. It will take you to Shimelle's blog to join the class. The best thing about this class is it is perpetual. Once you buy the class you take every year for no additonal cost. It was the best money spent to keep me present in the moment during this busy Christmas season.

Time for Journal Your Christmas!

2011-11-26T21:47:00.002-06:00

I have been keeping busy with getting my stuff together for my annual Christmas Journal. Every year Shimelle Laine www.shimelle.com does an online class to journal your Christmas. It helps to look at all the things that go on in December at least take one picture or journal about the event. It makes every day special. I get a prompt each day from Dec 1 to Jan 6. It always takes me all day to think of what to write but it helps remember things I have forgotten. The picture above is how I am going to number the pages and first day page which I am still have to journal about. I will try to get pages posted at least once a week. I know the Sunday are all spoken for as far as things to do. Next week we start on Dec 1 with Seth's school program. It all goes too quickly some times. It is nice to remember some of those memories.
IMG_3832.JPG, originally uploaded by stephrussell2001.

Explore Class and Through The Viewfinder

2011-08-02T15:56:00.000-05:00

Today as I was very bored at work. The harvest is late so I will be incredibly busy in another month or so but right now very slow. I have been taking an online class with Shimelle in the UK. I take her Christmas journal class every year. This is another class along those lines but with everyday things. It is taking apart how we scrapbook and what we scrapbook. One of her ideas was to use another older camera with a twin lens reflex and use the digital to take a picture of the viewfinder. It is really cool. Since I don't have a twin lens reflex camera lying around, I had to fake it. She gave directions how to do it. I was able to do it with some photos I took at lunch. All in all a good day.

Fleece Washing Experiment

2011-04-20T09:49:00.000-05:00

Here is a Debouillet fleece I just received. It is a very nice white fleece with locks as long as 4+ inches.

I decided to preserve the lock structure by using a tulle squares and a washing bag. I pulled locks from the fleece the width of my finger and placed them on some tulle the width of my bag. All of the tips and butts were placed in the same direction. I made about 3 packets of these locks.

This process took some time but it was worth it because the locks structure was so great. I used some boiling water and my hot tap water to get it to 135 degrees F. It was perfect for using some Power Scour soap I was looking to try. I ended up folding the wash bag over a third. I left this for about 20 minutes. The water cooled to about 120 degrees. I then did a second wash with about half the amount of soap I used the first time. The water by the end of the second wash was less dirty than the first. I then did two rinses of the same temp water and each was left for 15 minutes. The end of the second rinse was really clear.

The tips didn't come as clean as I would have liked but really that will come out with flicking the ends or just snipping them off. It took about an hour and 15 minutes to do the wash process. I did use my washing machine to spin the water out after the last rinse. That helped alot with the drying process. The locks dried over night. Below is a picture of the storage bag that I store all of my fiber. It has breathable sides and can fit quite a lot. I decided to be really scientific and weigh by fiber before washing and after. Before weighed 5.8 oz the after was 2.9 oz. So I lost 50% weight of dirt and lanolin. That is acceptable as the Debouillet fleece is expected to have 50% loss. This was a fun experiment and I will do this again. It helps to appease the nerd in me.

So that was my evening of getting my fiber fix satisfied and still waiting for Spring to arrive here in the northern plains.

Journaling my Christmas Day 1

2010-12-01T09:24:00.002-06:00

Shimelle_JournalYourChristmas_2010Manifesto_LargeRed.jpg, originally uploaded by stephrussell2001.

This year I am going to rekindle the magic of Christmas that I remember as a child. I hope to give from my heart to all people that I come in contact with during this hectic season. I hope to cherish the time that I spend with family and friends over this season. I hope to find peace, celebrate the joy and remember the reason for this season.

Every year for the last 4 years, I have taken on online class. It is a process by which I receive a prompt in my email each day for the next 37 days. It has various themes for each day. Things to think about as the season progresses. I enjoy it because it causes me to look around and really see what is going on in my life and town. I want to document in way that the kids will remember and I will remember years later how each year happens, things that change and the things that stay the same. It is how we found out that Autumn's loves the season for the traditions that we have made. The boys go along with just about anything. This year we are starting something new an advent calendar.

So if you would like to join me in documenting your Christmas let me know I will show how you too can discover the meaning of Christmas in your life.

Thankful for the snow?

2010-11-22T14:30:00.000-06:00

It is snowing here again but really it has just started. We got our first snow and it will probably stay and we won't see the grass or dirt again until March or so. It looks like it is shaping up the way the Farmer's Almanac has forecast snow and cold. D might actually have to get on the tractor tonight to do the driveway. I am so glad we got it. It is a wonderful thing not to have to walk behind the snow thrower for miles on end.
Well, I guess we have to thankful for snow and we aren't in a drought or something else. I just hope every one remembers how to drive in the stuff...me included. It is pretty to watch it come down but I know the wind outside of town will be not as pretty when I am driving in it.

Traditions

2009-12-10T10:38:00.000-06:00

Tradition have been on my mind lately. This year is the first year the kids seem to be interested in our traditions. I was thinking of changing some things this year and but Autumn was all you can't change things now. It is tradition. It surprised me because I haven't thought too much about what we do and when we do it. The kids haven't complained or said much of anything about anything that we do. It is nice to have the feedback to know there are things they look forward too. Seth this year is interested in the ornaments on our tree. He was standing looking at it one day and was curious about the ornaments with his Dad's name on them. So I told him about some of the ornaments and he told me about what he remembers about the ornaments. It was a fun conversation and I am glad that he noticed a tradition.

Our traditions are this, we go to the Christmas concerts for the kids. We go caroling with a church group or scouts at the local nursing home. We perform in the live nativity and become icicles. But we also go on sleigh rides and get warm by the bonfire. We drive around town and look at all the lights everyone has put on their houses.We sing solos during Christmas Eve church service. We open one gift Christmas Eve and the rest Christmas morning. Christmas morning we spend enjoying our gifts and each other. We usually watch White Christmas, The Santa Clause, and a few other Christmas movies during some weekend. I try to fit in making cookies but that sometimes does not happen.

During Christmas time we are busy with school and basketball games. Next year will be different as we won't have basketball games to go to anymore. I might find more time to bake those cookies. We see how it goes and what new traditions will form as our family changes.

Good Intentions

2009-12-03T14:27:00.000-06:00

Every Christmas time always brings good intentions. I intend to write a Christmas letter and send cards. Along with those cards I want to send pictures of the kids. But as usual with basketball starting, work getting busy for the spring, and all the Christmas programs etc. It just never gets done. This year so far I have written a letter and got my list of people to send cards. There is always hope that it gets done this year. I might even go ahead and buy my stamps too. This is the most prepared I have been in years we will see how long it lasts. I have pictures of Autumn (senior pics) and tonight I should be able to get one of the boys too. Seth's concert is tonight and I made him a box to fit over his head so that he can be a present. It should be interesting. I will post my last two Journal my Christmas entries when I get home tonight. I can't believe I am up to date on this. Last night I was looking for my X stamp maker and I found my previous Christmas journals. I farthest I have made is to the 7th of Dec. I hope to do the whole thing this year. Wish me luck.

Winter Weather

2009-12-02T13:27:00.001-06:00

I woke to a world of white this morning. It actually started to snow yesterday afternoon. Now it is still snowing and the ground is covered with white. After looking at the weather forecast, we are supposed to get another inch. I love snow during Christmas but I do get tired of it by the end of December. If only we could get it just before Christmas and then it could melt and I would the happiest person around. The years we haven't had snow for Christmas just seemed so wrong, like it just wasn't Christmas yet. I have a feeling this white look is going to stay until the spring. I do love it when it is untouched and no footprints, mud etc to mar its existance. Snow always make everything seem new somehow. I have always lived in the north where snow is always a possiblity. There are so many different types of snow. We have the heavy, wet snow in Ohio and the dry, light fluffy stuff we usually get here in North Dakota. I guess winter wouldn't be winter without the white stuff.

JYC Manifesto

2009-12-01T12:03:00.001-06:00

IMG_1918.JPG, originally uploaded by stephrussell2001.

This is my first page in my Christmas journal. I love doing this activitiy every year. It gives me something to look forward to every day. I can sometimes get too caught up in the push and shove to really stop and enjoy the season just for its own sake.

This reads:
Starting Dec 1st, I will keep a Christmas journal. In it, I will write something every day to reflect on the holidays of my past, enjoy the holidays of my present, and dream about the holidays of my future.

To some this will be a stack of papers and trivial scribbles, but NOT to me. I am taking back my Christmas. I am letting be something I relish and most importantly, I am giving at least 15 minutes every day to myself no matter how crazy the season becomes. I hope you will share, encourage and understand as I make something with my own hands, my own words and my own memories.

Enjoy the season: I will.

Thanksgiving prepartions have started.

2009-11-25T21:10:00.000-06:00

Here is our Turkey getting all drunk so to speak. It is being brined in a combination of cider and beer and spices. It usually comes out very nice. The family really loves it. So this is tomorrow's dinner. I am so looking forward to having 4 days off. I don't get that much and we are staying home. I am looking forward to spending relaxing time at home with the family.

But tomorrow is reserved for cooking, eating, spinning, and watching movies. Friday is for getting the house ready for Christmas. Saturday is a basketball scrimmage. Sunday is for decorating the church. So here is my Thankful list.

I am thankful that David is well and seems likely to stay that way. I am thankful that Jacob is coming along in school and is a wonderful bright and caring person. I am thankful that Seth is trying to helpful and loves to gives hugs to everyone. I am thankful that Beau is a really good dog. I am also thank for my far away family and friends for keeping in touch as best they can and sharing their lives with me.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Happy anniversary to us!

2009-11-21T10:01:00.002-06:00

IMG_1914.jpg, originally uploaded by stephrussell2001.

Today is my 22nd Annivesary to my wonderful husband, David. I actually forgot about this one as it is our second wedding date. We did get married in July but this was our wedding in our hometown with family and friends. It was a wonderful day even if it did snow. Almost every who was invited came and I hope had a good time. It was wonderful to be with family and friends to mark our life change from single people to an official married couple.

Our time together seems like forever and also seems like we just started this whole thing. It is hard to believe that 22 years have past. Every year brings some new to either be rejoiced for or struggled to get through. We are not the same people who started out on this journey but we still share the same love and devotion that we had at the beginning. This love has matured as well from an exciting future hopes to a warm, close steadying relationship. We are glad to be celebrating this year and I hope there will be many more.

Journal your Christmas

2009-11-19T20:23:00.000-06:00

I am looking forward to this Journal Your Christmas journal this year. I haven't scrapped in a long time since probably last year. But it is always fun and keeps me focused on the reason for the Season. It also helps to reflect on my feelings about the season and why I think the way I do and what I want to change. Here are my supplies this year. I am going to do 8x8 with patterned paper to accent. Also found some really cute snowflakes to put my numbers for the date. I am hoping to finish this one. I might go peek at the prompts to remind myself of them. I also have to pick what pen and other doo dads to use too. I am going to try to keep it simple. I am glad I got paper that has glitter already on it. If any is wondering how this works check out this link Journal your Christmas. This is what gets me through the holidays. I miss some things from my childhood but have done different things with my kids so it is nice to combine the two. Join me if you need to take back your Christmas.

Busy, Busy

2009-11-16T12:06:00.000-06:00

I will have to add photos later as I will never get this posted if I wait to get photos up. After the van fire, I attend a UMW district meeting the following weekend. It was wonderful to visit with all the different women from around our district here. Putting names to faces is always fun. I am still learning my new "job" as district treasurer. It does take a certain amount of time but I sure it will be easier as time goes on. This meant that I was away from home over night. David was fine and so were the kids but I know eating wasn't as dependable.

The next weekend I want on fun and exciting weekend with my spinning and knitting friends. I went to Watertown, SD to a fiber festival. There animals mostly sheep and alpacas, lots of yarn and roving too. I bought a really nice alpaca pin roving and some lovely pink batts. I took a spinning class on how to spin fine yarn. It was very interesting and I learned how to trust the thread as you spin. There was also a deal that you got 4 ounces of fiber to spin and the returned the finished yarn for the auction at the end of the weekend. It was interesting experience to spin all different types of fibers in one yarn.

The rest of the time has been spent going to cross country meets for Jacob. He did a good job this year and looks forward to next year running the longer distances. He generally runs a 3k but next year will look at doing the 5k.

Next was Halloween, Seth was Darth Vader. He had a lot of fun going to a friends party and trick or treating around town. This Halloween was actually a very pleasant night. It was a bit chilly but not too close to freezing.

Autumn has been busy with getting her senior pictures done and given out. She has been busy with play practice. Today she starts basketball practice. I have a feeling our nice quiet weekends will be very busy soon.

I can't believe that is almost Thanksgiving time. I am also looking forward to Journaling my Christmas. I think I will do it as a digital file this time around here on the blog. It is fun to do and makes me thoughtful at this time of year.

vanfire.JPG

2009-09-05T14:19:00.001-05:00

IMG_1531.JPG, originally uploaded by stephrussell2001.

Well, I think the picture says a thousand things. But I will tell the story anyway. It all starts with my arriving home as usual on a Friday evening. I gathered my things from the van and headed into the house to relax and get into comfy clothes. After I talked with the kids and changed clothes. I happen to look outside to see smoke coming from the van. Well, we have been have some issues with burning oil. When I went to check if it was just a small issue no, Lots and Lots of smoke coming from the van. So I called 911 to get the firemen on their way because there was no way I was going to be able to handle it by myself. I get them alerted and hang up with them. I called David and told him the situation which he was a little disbelieving but I was too. Luckily he was already on his way home from work. I hung up with David and continued to wait.....and wait.....and wait....I ended up calling 911 again because there were flames on the entire front of the van and we were hearing small explosions. Since it was close to the house I was a bit concerned about it spreading. But only the little Geo Metro was affected since it was the closest. When I was on the phone with 911 the second time she verified the directions which were wrong so I told her the right ones. Then finally after a few more minutes of waiting. I can see the firetrucks coming down the road. What a relief that was! It took a few more before they got ready and put it out. Once they finally did the the damage was visible. They figure it was an electrical short near the headlights because most of the damage was done on the driver's side of the engine compartment. I am just thankful I wasn't in it when it started. So we are feeling a bit sad that our van is gone but happy that everyone is safe and sound.
So let's hope this is the only thing that will happen for the next while. Have a happy and safe Labor day weekend.

2009-08-31T20:49:00.000-05:00

The summer is coming to a close

2009-08-26T14:36:00.003-05:00

Lots of things have happened since I last wrote here. Autumn had a wonderful prom. We lost a member of our family to cancer quickly. Visited with family we haven't seen in years. Reconnected a bit and hope to continue to do so over the coming years.

It seems this summer like we really haven't had a summer. It has been cool and not very summer like for the most of it. The kids are all ready back in school and the grind begins again. Jacob is loving his cross country running. Autumn is looking forward to her senior year in high school. Seth is just enjoying being with all his friends and he has a loose tooth too. Everyone is growing up.

David and I are trying to keep up with all the kids. Also trying to find time to ourselves too. In a few short years it will be back to just the two of us again. It is hard to believe we have been married for over 20 years. It seems like we just got married a few years ago. He is "enjoying" being union steward for his workplace. I am trying to adjust to another volunteer position for my church's women's group. It is take more time than I would like. But it will be fun to do some traveling.

I have finished a few knitting projects this summer. The first one I was a ruffled shawl that I gave away. I am going to have to make another one. That was a fast and fun knit. The other one was a handspun, handknit shawl. I gave that to Jacob's title I teacher. She has helped so much over the years that she deserved it. Now I am working on another shawl that will be given away but also for a good reason. That is also a handspun, handknit as well as my own personal design.
I have a several other projects that I want to get done before the end of the year.
Rhinebeck cardigan-have to spin more yarn, knit the rest of the body.
Bristow-need to knit the two sleeves.
Sugar Maple socks-just have to finish the foot.
Aphrodite Shawl-will work on that as I can no deadline on that.
Desdemona Shawl-would like to get that done. I am getting the 3rd installment of lace club soon.

My next in line projects should be mittens for everyone. I need to spin those. Will probably be simple simple ones but that is just fine with most likely alpaca interior. Yummmm, soft and cozy for the really really cold winter.

Need to go and do some work today. Wheat harvest might actually happen this week.

Busy life too much going on

2009-04-04T13:43:00.003-05:00

I am so tired of this weather. It is all snowing and flooding and muddy. Yuck! I keep telling myself in a few weeks the grass will be green and it will nice to outside the mud will be gone. I can't tell you how much this winter has seemed to drag on and on. I am trying to think of a place that has season but that isn't so freaking extreme. I will have to investigate that for my old age.

Things here are busy...Autumn has prom in a few weeks. We are actually going to be chaperones. I am looking forward to it. It is so nice to see all the kids dressed and having fun. Jacob is busy with track, speech and school homework. I can't believe he is 14 now. His birthday was yesterday. We took him to Texas Roadhouse and his present was a PSP. His is so excited about. He is getting so tall and growing up fast too. He is a pretty good kid. Seth is at his inquisitive stage. ASking all kinds of questions and telling you what to do because at six he knows it all too. He has some pretty funny exclaimations...like I put a cover on a our new couch. He says " What are you covering that up for?" He just ughhhh's and walks away. He also is very personable to everyone he meets. He comes to where I work after school and strikes up conversations with anyone and everyone he sees there. Seth is our social butterfly.

Well, I suppose I should get David and go out and try to get our van out of the mud it has been in for 3 weeks now. I would like to drive it again. I am sure Autumn would like to have wheels again too.

2008-12-02T17:10:00.000-06:00

December 2, 2008

Weather….Christmas Weather. …My idea of a perfect Christmas time weather would be snow falling on Christmas Eve. Big fluffy flakes slowly drifting down from the sky on a dark night, slowly making the ground turn white so perfect and clean. There would be no wind and just a quiet peaceful looking landscape. Since it is Christmas, there would be no reason to go anywhere so we could just look at it from a cozy warm home with all of our children there, enjoying their gifts, and us just enjoying the moment of being together. I think that is the best no stress or worries for one day out of the year. Just enjoying the moment. Because these moments are going to change in the years ahead as the kids grow up and leave for their own lives.

December 1st, Christmas Journal

2008-12-01T20:44:00.002-06:00

The last few years I have done an online class about Christmas. I get sent a prompt by email each day until Jan 6th. I usually try to do a scrapbook page or writing etc every day. It does get hard with all the running around that we do in December. But I will try to share it with all of you. It has made the Christmas season something I look forward to because it causes me to step back and see the real reason behind the commercialization of todays season.

MY MANIFESTO

Starting today, December First, I will keep a Christmas Journal.
In it I will write something every day to reflect the holidays of my past,

enjoy the holidays of my present, and dream about the holidays of the future.

To some this would be a stack of papers and trivial scribbles, but not to me.

I am taking back my Christmas.

I am letting something important I relish
and more importantly, I am giving fifteen minutes to myself, every day, no
matter how crazy this season becomes. This Christmas I will make
something with my own hands, my own words, and
my own memories.

Please stay tuned to my blog for more special Christmas lists.

God gave us a gift

2008-10-25T08:47:00.002-05:00

Last night we got home from doing a bimonthly shopping trip(groceries etc). It was one of those rare nights that were clear and quiet. Usually when we get home at night the first thing I do is look up at the night sky. Sometimes there are few stars and moon but last night was a awesome. It was full of stars. Here usually in the winter when it is -20 and it looks beautiful but all you really want to do is go inside to get warm. After we brought all of our groceries and such in the house. We all went outside and enjoyed the simple pleasure of looking up at the night sky. Trying to find what constellations we could remember and see. I wish I could have gotten a picture of it. It is always so inspiring to look at how small we really are here in on this Earth. Makes the problems of our little world seem so insignificant somehow. It was really just nice to be with my family and enjoy the simply being together.

This past few weeks have been trying to say the least. The elementary guidance counselor at the school died of colon cancer which she had been battling for about a year. Her family will never be the same and will always be missing someone. Another family lost their daughter in a car accident. She was 17. This is the 3rd girl that has been killed in a car accident in the last four years. So that is another family who will be missing someone for the rest of their lives.

So last night I think was God's gift to us to make us appreciate the family we have right now. We made a few memories especially when Seth said Look there is star orange one right over there.(pointing across at our neighbors property.)..When told no that is just a light Seth says: Our darn it!

The other highlight was there were shooting stars. I saw at least 3. It is always so neat to catch sight one but last night I think most of us saw at least one. So there were wishes made. I just hope God heard them.

Mom's Birthday

2008-09-25T10:52:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was September 24, which was my mother's birthday. She would have been 84. It has been 3 years since she left this world. It has been hard some days when I have had the need to talk to her about something. She wasn't a perfect person but someone who shared many memories with me. She chose a different path than I might have but I learned from her mistakes. I know what kind of person I want to be and know what would have made her proud. I learned to volunteer my time even though I am busy with my kids. I learned that kids want to know what is expected from them. I learned that I want to happy with myself always. I learned you can be strong and still be loved. I feared my mother, I loved my mother. She was a person who get anything done. She wanted the best for all her kids. She also expected so much more than I think we did of ourselves. I would like to think she was proud of all of us. We all took different roads to get where we are now but I think we turned out okay. She made me a stronger person and able to stand up for myself. If I could stand up to her then I could make it in the world on my own. I took care of her for nine years doing many things that kids at my age never would have to do but I loved her and wanted her to be happy.
She gave me the love of crafting. I have all of her knitting things. I taught myself to be creative from cross stitch, crochet, knitting, scrapbooking and spinning yarn. If you don't know something you learn. Well, anyway....Thank you, Mom for giving me the strenght to speak my mind and be giving of myself to others.

Happy Birthday!!!!

Sheba has gone to a better place

2008-08-03T10:20:00.004-05:00

Sheba was our dog for almost 15 years. We got her as a puppy from a farm a few miles from our home. She was a black lab and german shepard mix. She was very loyal and loving. She grew up with all the kids. She also tolerated all the other dogs we have brought home. She was smart and helped keep the kids safe. She loved roaming our 11 acres and making sure the place was safe. She was afraid of the coyotes but what dog isn't. She would sit for hours waiting for the squirrels to come out of the trees. She hated the squirrels or maybe she loved to chase them. The last few years she couldn't do so much patrolling but she loved to sit outside and listen to the traffic going by so she could bark. Even though she had a hard time seeing, hearing and walking she lived for those few moments of laying in the sunshine and rolling on the grass. We will miss her but she was not enjoying life as much lately. So it is a blessing that she is now passed on.

Thoughts on why I spin and knit

2008-07-26T19:55:00.002-05:00

Lately I have been contemplating why I create/craft things. I learned to knit because I thought producing a knitted fabric would be cool. It is rather neat to take to sticks and some string and create a fabric that stretches and returns to an unstretched state. I crocheted for a many years and the fabric that creates is just so solid, I guess. It is great for blankets I think. Knitting you can make so many more things that are great and useful. Well, once you get to know knitters many turn out to be spinners too.

Once a few years ago, our women's group hosted a lady who spun yarn. She demonstrated how she did it and it was just fascinating to watch a piece of fluff become some else that was useable and helpful. For some reason what she did always stuck with me. The only place I heard about spinning was in the Bible and fairy tales. But it always seemed like magic. In this day and age of computers and other technology to make our lives easier; it is sometimes nice to return to a craft that makes you appreciate what you have. I don't have to spin and knit to provide warm clothing for my family. But I can do it as a way to remember that once this was the only way to have any clothes at all and thus appreciate that I can go to a store to get what I need.

Now, I have 2 spinning wheels and 5 spindles, not mention alot of wool and other fibers around the house. It is a hobby that I can do just about any where and do too. I take my knitting everywhere. The other day I was knitting at our local pool and a little girl came up to me and asked what I was doing...I said "making socks" She said "making socks....I have never seen anyone making socks" She watched for bit but went on her way. It makes me think that I am sort of an ambassdor of knitting to people who may have never seen a grandmother or mother knitting anymore. It makes me sad too that not many people know someone who knits. If we don't pass this craft on to the next generation it may be lost.

All I know is I can happily amuse myself without electricity for many hours at a time. I produce something at the end of that time that is unique and not perfect. My kids ask about what I do so they at least know how something is made. Autumn is saying she knows more about fiber than she wants to know because of me. Jacob enjoys learning to spin. He likes the mechanics of it. Seth just likes watching the spinning. Even David is interested in the process too. He helps me with my wheels and when I ply he helps with the tangles.

I would love to go a retreat and learn more about knitting and spinning but that is a great cost and time is also an issue between work and the kids. But someday I will do that. So when you see a sheep, alpaca, or goat or see that cashmere or wool sweater think of me. I will spinning and knitting something I think.

Left: handspun Alpaca Right: hand knit lace shawl.

long time no blog....not original but true

2008-06-15T10:33:00.004-05:00

It has been a long time since I have blogged. Not much going but then again a lot. DD is off having an adventure getting to know some new people from around the state. Ds's are here being busy and bored all at the same time. Who knew that could happen. ...

I have been keeping busy with work and knitting and spinning. Throw a little yard work in and that is my life. I went on vacation to Ohio to see family and also got to go to a fiber festival. DD went along as to keep me company on the two hour drive. It was great fun and I got alot of new fibers that I can't wait to see how they spin up. Here is a sampling of what I got.

I also knitted a shawl in about six weeks for my daycare provider.

It came out really nice. She cried when I gave it to her.

It is called Angel Lace Shawl by Evelyn Clark. It was an easy pattern to follow. The yarn is

Laceweight Malabrigo in Jade Sapphire. I loved the way the varigation turned out. Here it is blocking. The detail was just great.

All right that is how my summer vacation has started out...How is yours?

Spring snow and Robins....

2008-04-12T07:33:00.002-05:00

If you could looked around yesterday you wouldn't have guessed it was spring. It snow about 4 inches yesterday some places got 8-9 inches some got less. We were kind of in the middle. It did melt but it sure was pretty but I could have done without it. School closed because it just kept snowing. We did make it to GF for DD's foot appointment. Then went and got here nails done and did our grocery shopping for the next two weeks. Today is prom! I have to clean the house, get DD to her hair appointment, finish a shawl/wrap for her, and generally be ready to take pictures at 3:30. It is going to be a long day.

I did get my new wheel. It is a Sonata. It is very light and pretty. It spins pretty good and easy to adjust. I can't wait to do some more on her though. I am coming along with my Angel Lace shawl. Very easy pattern and quick so far.

Well, better go and start the day. Right after I finish my coffee.

What I have been doing these last weeks

2008-03-08T17:32:00.004-06:00

Well, lots of things like staying warm with below zero temps for most of it. We are at least warmer today 30 above but snowing and blowing. Can't have everything I guess. Hoping this is getting the last few things of winter and spring will start to spring....

I am NOT looking forward to getting up an hour earlier (thank you daylight savings time) whose bright idea was it anyway. Getting little sleep as it is and we not get one hour less well, not really but it feels that way so for the next week I will be out of sorts because not only are getting less sleep we have to get the kids to bed at the same time but it is still light out here like really light.... So the kids then put up the fight of it is not bedtime because the sun is still out.....ugh...

This is my first real kind of know what I am doing yarn. I got the roving from a fiber club Spunky Eclectic does. I loved how it drafted so smoothly and quickly. Loved it... want more. (have to work on the plying part though but that is coming along.

I still have Jan and now Feb fiber to spin up plus some more corriedale that I ordered in my high school colors...purple and gold. Here is the purple I have 8 oz so maybe a shawl or stole that is pretty simple.

I am finally putting a my picture of wheel up here too.

I have Schipperjte wheel. I need to get more and newer bobbins for it. I just have to start emailing for dimensions I guess. I haven't giving her a name yet. Just haven't thought about it too much I guess.

She came all the way from the Netherlands. It is not perfect but I have got to where I am able to spin fairly consistently on her. I need to make some more adjustments but I am reading Alden Amos' book, The Big Book of Handspinning I am finding it very interesting reading. I am learning lot about what things mean and why and to me that is important puts things in perspective.

Well, that is what I have been doing besides family stuff DS#1 wrestling events, getting DD ready for prom and understanding boys, and DS#2 well, just keeping him out of trouble...

I should blog more I need to update the sidebar a bit with different things that I have been doing. I am still knitting my 3 shawls. I put one away for a while(Aspen Grove). I WILL finish the Secret of the Stole ii and Swan Lake before I do any others.

That is the next post shawl time. I will try to do it next week.

My first plied yarn

2008-02-02T08:18:00.000-06:00

I finally got my wheel fixed enough to make a plied yarn. It went very well. I don't know if I will knit with it or not as since it is some of my first spun yarn and it isn't the greatest as far as being a great knitting yarn. I still have to get it off the bobbin and set the twist but it is done. I spun up part of my Party dress from Spunky ecletic. But need to free up a bobbin to finish the second half. Can't wait to do this month's shipment, Icelandic wool and great colors.

I have to find some bobbins for this though. Since it isn't a common brand I am going to have to have to find what will fit it.

Knitting, I am doing the SOTS ii, I had to frog a bit and that didn't go as well as I had hoped but I am just going to continue from here and try to get as close to clue 3 as I can. I am still working on my cardigan and Swan lake too. I am so close to finishing my socks that I if sat down for about a half an hour they would be done.

Trying to learn Magic loop but haven't taken the time to just do it.

I think I need a snow day all to myself to just do what I want without all the things wanting attention.

Today we have a basketball game and sometime this weekend we have to get groceries. Also it is the BIG football weekend. Maybe we will have to time that day to catch up and knitting or spinning.

A new Year.....2008

2008-01-15T20:14:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that it is already 2008. I am almost 39...(friday). I don't know how I will take 40 some say it is hard and others say it was just another birthday. Well, I have a year to figure that out. Right now, I keep pretty busy with the kids their activities. I just don't have time to dwell on such things. Dh is already 40 and he just complained about it all the time.

Well, I am just going to stay busy and see if I can't lose those pounds I have added over the years and do things I can enjoy. I am enjoying figuring out my knitting and spinning and trying to scrapbook too some day. I really need to clean my craft room as it is just piles of stuff in there. I just don't feel like doing any cleaning in there. I am going to have to keep up with my photos since I got a new camera and all. I have to learn to reduce the size though and do it faster.

I am looking forward to basketball being over soon so I can have my weekends to myself again. Then I will clean my room.....

Just thought I would let people know that I do use this blog occaisionally will have photos soon of what I don't know but something.

Mystery Stole aka Swan Lake Update

2007-12-28T20:03:00.000-06:00

I am finally up to row 204 and Chart E started. It has taken one frogging and more stitch markers to finally see some improvement. there are mistakes but I won't tell if you won't.

I also got a new digital camera for Christmas so I will taking lots more pics and putting them up here. I just need to find the time to do it. What I really need is high speed. I sooo want DSL that is about all I can get here without too much trouble but I need to switch providers as the only one that I can get is new and that would mean changing my email and such. This dial up thing is just taking way too much time.

My computer also took a dive and I have had to reload all my applications which meant losing all my email addresses too. It will take time but I will rebuild. I am hoping to get to the LYS soon but I may have to do somethings over the phone instead of in person for a bit. I am planning on going to a spin in Jan 12th. It will fun and it will be the first guild meeting in a long time. I need more help with spinning, not to mention an afternoon out with out kids and animals wondering what I am doing and if they can help. It will be at a really cool ethnic museum. They have a real viking ship as the center piece of the place. Pretty cool sounds like lots of pictures being taken that day.

Christmas is coming!

2007-12-13T21:07:00.000-06:00

Yea, I know it is coming ever closing. At least this year we are almost done with kids' lists;
DH asked for mine last week. So that is better than we have ever done. I hope to get a Christmas bonus next week to finish off and to get Dh something great. I don't know what that is but probably a massage or something. He needs that as I can't do that do to my hand problems and I just don't have the strength or know how to do it good.

I would love a weekend alone with him but until the kids are all old enough to handle a few days on their own and we can afford it; it will be a long time coming.

Knitting will I have been working on my Swan Lake shawl almost done with clue 3. Yeah....

I have also started to get my Ravelry notebook done. I keep finding more great patterns though so the queque is getting longer by the second. I did frog my Aspen grove Shawl because I knitted under duress there were lost stitches and counts were off so I just decided the best thing to do was to start over. But since Swan lake is coming along I haven't found the time to start it again. I also have 2 shawl kits that should be knitted too. But they will have to wait. I have to find some easy knitting to take to basketball games. I am thinking of starting Fenna from Myrna's Faroese shawl book. It is simple but will be a good way to get into the Faroese style of knitting. I am all for garter or stocking stitch it is a nice break from the more complicated.

I am also starting Journal Your Christmas again this year. I am way behind all ready but did get to do 2 days tonight so now I am just a week behind. I might be able to catch up this weekend. I have nothing planned except for cookie baking. So that might be the way to go and also sneak in some knitting too. I don't have any new pics but I did get some up at ravelry.

Check me out there I am araygirl. It is a very interesting place to get to know people far and wide.

I am also finding new etsy stores and other vendors for spinning supplies. I don't have anything nearby for that so.....I can window shop to my heart's content online.

Maybe I will get back here later.

Snow, Snow and more Snow....

2007-12-01T06:36:00.000-06:00

Oh, also below zero temps.....I "love" winter..... I chose to live here so I shouldn't complain. So now begins the season of boots, snowpants, hats, gloves etc.... I am slowly trying to organize this house but it is slow going. I have been busy with basketball games and tournaments; harvest and getting a volunteer youth organzation back on its feet after a tornado. So life has been interesting this last few months. Plus DH was sick for a few days in there too. He rarely gets sick so when he does it is usually very sick. He is really good so it is nice to pamper him for the few days. But it does slow the rest of us down too.

Well, on the knitting front I have gotten Bristow to the last quarter but I have to rip back an inch as in the stress of late I knitted too far for the shoulder and armhole shaping. So I am working on the Swan Lake shawl again. I have gotten to clue 3 and added more markers to keep the pattern count better. I have to say I love stitch markers. They have helped me more than I can say.

Since this is December 1, Journal your Christmas is back and I am looking forward to doing it again. It was nice to take a few minutes everyday to think about the daily question and my answer to it. It has made me look at Christmas differently and able to appreciate it more than I have in a few years. So look for some journal pages here for the next month or so.

I am not knitting any Christmas gifts but am looking doing a shawl for my daycare provider. She is so good with my ds. He loves her and her family as if we are related. Since we live far from grandma and grandpa it is nice to see he gets some psuedo grammy time.

Well, I am going to go work on my ravelry page as this is the only time I can get since for some reason I can't sleep in anymore. Oh well, the house is quiet and no fighting to mediate or getting anything for anyone.

enjoy your winter weather....it doesn't last forever....

TGIF!!!!!

2007-11-16T07:19:00.000-06:00

It is Friday, hurray!!! Not that it means rest and relaxation but it means that I can actually try to get my house clean. I really need to implement Fly Lady again. I have in a way it is really coming along. I just want the rest done so I can relax next week.

I do have a finished object. I finished the premie hat Wed night. I think I will try to focus on my left front of my cardigan Bristow from Knitty. I just have to get to the neck and shoulder shaping and then I am done with that one just the sleeves and the right front to go......

I was trying to think of my first finished object and I don't think I have one except some washcloths that were quick and easy. My first cardi is the one I have been working on for over a year.

I am looking forward to this year's Journal Your Christmas. I did it last year and it was a great way to get in the holiday mood. You get prompts to write on for the month of December. Thinking about Christmas' past and what you want to do for the future.
I hope I can finish last year I only did about 10 days.

I hope to get to some LYS's next week. It will be great to get to some yarn in person. The shops are new in the Fargo area so it will neat to see how they are set up and changed.

Till next week.

Secret pal 11 post!!!

2007-11-04T18:23:00.000-06:00

I received my second package from my secret pal. It was a wonderful package. I had a skein of Seacoast Handpainted yarn Panda which is a blend of merino/bamboo/nylon. A set of size 2 dpns, a grapefruit scented candle (which is fav of mine), some hazelnut chocolates and a wonderful dpn case to round the package. I had a great time opening it and enjoying the yarn and chocolates. It was great way to enjoy a Friday even though I had to work I got to look at the yarn to get me through the day. I will try to take pics soon. I just haven't had the time to do much of anything.

1st kid is in a play and that is taking up all of her extra time. 2nd kid is playing basketball for the next few weeks. Then I have some mtgs and such next week for my volunteer activities and well as work when is busy depending the day and what is going on with the harvest and shipping things. So really next week I have something going on every day.

I did finish the faroese shawl and I did cast on for the Aspen Grove Shawl from www.mimknits.com I am doing the fall colorway in reds/yellows. I hope to knit a bit more on it tonight but we will see. I am on ravelry now under the araygirl name. I will update that a bit more as I go. My DH asked me the other day how many projects do I have going. I kinda of ignored the question and just 3 because that is what I had with me at the time. My sock because that is easy knitting just knit. My left front sweater for when I wait for the next game. Then the premie hat because it is also an easy knit but I have to find the directions to start the decreases.

I also have MS3 to do but that is home knitting and quiet time knitting because it requires concentration. I am really thinking to trying to get a retreat going because I need a weekend of knitting to finish some of these projects. I may suggest one at my next guild meeting. Wouldn't that be great a whole weekend of nothing but knitting and finishing projects. All the meals made for you and you just have to worry about finishing that row or taking a nap.

Ahhh to dream......

TGIF!!!!!

2007-10-19T17:55:00.000-05:00

I have to say that I am thanking God it is Friday! It has been a long, long week. My week was just busy and busy. Going from one event to another not to mention the busyness of the harvest and getting in all those truck loads in the computer. So now that it rained for a couple of days. I am getting caught up and doing all the qtrly reports that need to get done in the next week.

I am also wishing I could be at Rhinebeck. Where everybody and everyone in the knitting and spinning world is going to be. AHhh to pet a sheep, fondle fiber and dream about many new yarns and rovings. Well, I will be there in my mind......

Here we are looking at getting ready for the winter. This weekend is the plastic on the windows and clean out areas that need to be reorganized. So I will be busy this weekend too. I hope to get some knitting in and some scrapbooking too.

Can't wait to relax to night and knit and watch tv and just veg......

It's officially Fall for me!

2007-10-07T14:50:00.000-05:00

I saw a v-shaped flock of birds heading south for winter. I wait every year until I see the first ones. I hope to see a bald eagle soon too. The last few years we have seen a couple of bald eagles pass thru eating their dinner. They are such a majestic and awe inspiring creature to watch. Also the mice are making pests of themselves this year. Trying to keep them out and get out the ones that got in to begin with. Never ending battle when you live in the country.

I did finish my shawl and can't wait to start the next one. I have been busy all week and haven't gotten a chance to Flash my stash for SP 11. I also got on Ravelry and haven't gotten a second to spend their either. I went to do a minute ago and found the digital was out of power so I am waiting for the battery to charge maybe I will get it in tonight don't know.

My secret pal did send me a package. I got it earlier in the week it contained 2 balls of 100% silk yarn that is so soft and wonderful can't wait to do something with it. I am think a scarf. We will see. The colors were wonderful too. I am kinda burned out on pinks and purples so the yarn was a nice change. It is in greens and purples and some white too. So different looking anyway.

Can't wait to have a moment to think about some things. Just thought I would do a quick post and say that I am still around just really really busy.

October all ready!

2007-10-02T06:52:00.000-05:00

It is a busy time this first week in October....Soys are in full swing and I am still working on getting the quarter closed. I hopefully, will get some things done today and not feel so pressed this week.

I am on the LAST row of my shawl just doing the bind off picot edging on it. I am about 2/3 of the way done with that. I hope to block that by this weekend. That is good because I have another shawl kit coming. Looking forward to that. That is about all I have going on.

Finally got the computer back...

2007-09-20T19:17:00.000-05:00

My DD has been using the computer at night and I can't seem to find time in the morning so she is at drama practice so I get the computer tonight. I also took pictures too....WAhhhooooo....

This is my faroese shawl...It is in Knitpicks shadow in sweetpea. I love the color and it is very simple but now that is 500+ stitches it takes a while to do a row. But down to the last 20 or so odd rows. Looking forward to getting it done.

This is my MS 3. I am only on like the beginning of the second clue. But I did have to frog once so that the pattern was clearer. This is my first serious lace project. I like a challenge so I think it is coming along great. I like to use the beads too. But this is taking a backseat to the one above. I am thinking that shawls will be my forte. I like to do them and am enjoying the portablity and that fact that how can a shawl NOT fit..... I am already starting to think of my next shawl project.

Not too much going on here...it is raining here today so that slows harvest for a few days. Since it is raining it feels cold too. So the propane heaters are going and I am finally warm today. I have been cold all day. I think I might go and enjoy my evening by sitting in bed and watching TV and knitting. Might even do the cup of tea thing...just feels like the night for it.

Wish me luck with finishing either one of these before the year is out.

Fall is arriving and winter is coming....

2007-09-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

Fall is starting to make itself more apparent every day. The sunsets earlier and colder mornings. You never know what kind of day it will be could be cold or warm. Hard to dress for the day when it is freezing in the morning and by noon it is hot.

Oh well, making some head way on the Faroese shawl. About halfway done on the border.... Everything else is on the back burner for now. Busy with life and running everyone everywhere.
Just trying to get one project finished before I start something else. I am taking a quilting class tomorrow so that will be a fun thing to do for a change. It is nearby so it is easy to get to class after work.

Not much else going on here. Just busy with work and kids in school. Things are getting back to normal. I am going to scrap today and clean my craft room. It is such a Mess.....

Pastor Bill Fretwell

2007-09-01T08:40:00.000-05:00

He died suddenly last week at the age of 48 which is way too young if you ask me. But God didn't ask me so he called his servant home. I knew this man thru a committee we served on together for the youth of our community. He had a passion for Christ and for his family including every Christian and person in town. He was always ready for a laugh and told funny stories. He was also a peacemaker and wanted to see every side of problem and understand it to effect a fair and reasonable solution. It is so hard to believe that he is gone and will only be remembered from recorded sermons and family memories. He won't get to see his younger children grow up and become adults. He won't get to hold anymore grandchildren which he so loved.

I know he made an impact on my life that I will be forever grateful. He was a good example of how a Christian should be and so very dedicated to his family and his job. I hope that his church will grow and fly on their own. I think that they are well on their way to that. You see the night the of his death there was a tornado that ripped thru the town. His church and his little corner of town were spared for the most part but that allowed his concregation to devote themselves to helping others and giving of themselves like their pastor did all the time. I think that he would have been more than proud of his flock and he would say "Well done".

Please keep thoughts and prayers for this family and the town as well. The next few weeks are going to hard and hectic. For those interested I will have links to the stories.

http://www.grandforksherald.com/collections/index.cfm?collection=northwood_tornado

Time for updating the UFO list....

2007-08-26T09:19:00.000-05:00

Unfinished objects are beginning to pile up again.

Here is the list so far:

Faroese Shawl-- about 20 rows from being finished...

Bristow left front - actually saw light of day yesterday morning when I couldn't sleep...I think it was calling me. Knitting goes faster than I thought it would.

Mystery Stole 3(swan lake)- put it down on the beginning of Clue 2 and haven't touched...probably has to do with the fact that I have be too tired to think clearly don't want to have to rip back again.

Irish cabled scarf- still haven't touched it in a very LONG time

prayer shawl in merino wool-- worked on this the other day was a nice change simple knitting and purling.

Second sock- dropped a stitch while in car and haven't touched it since...maybe to day...

Cozy from Knitty in silk-Worked a few rows the other day but do need to have full attention on it because the rows change and I don't remember where I am.

Well, that is seven projects in just knitting but my spinning is still in the learning stages so I dont' count that.

I have scrapbooking too but won't get into that either. Maybe I should just clean my craft room and see what I have where because I know I have bought yarn for about 3 more projects and keep forgetting about the projects.

Tomorrow is the first day of school for the kiddos...so today will be spent getting all the supplies rounded up and ready for tomorrow's craziness.

As soon as I find my camera I will take pictures of all of these and post them.

8 for SP 11

2007-08-26T08:52:00.000-05:00

1. What is the one knitting accessory you could not live without? stitch markers, they are like little way points in your knitting. Helps to keep me on track

2. If you're heading on vacation, do you take knitting with you? Yes If so, how much and what type of project? It depends on how long I am going for...when we went on our LONG trip..I took a sock, begininnings of MS3, and my Faroese shawl. Now when we went on our shorter trip I just took MS3.

3. Where have you travelled to that you'd consider your favorite spot? in my lifetime, I would have to say the White Mtns in Arizona, very peaceful and beautiful scenery.

4. What is your favorite knitting book at the moment? I am reading the EZ series. Very good reading and encouraging to do your own thing. Do you own it? Yes

5. Do you listen to podcasts? Yes Which is your favorite(s)? Lime N Violet but I also love Pixie Purls.

6. If you could only knit with 1 color for the rest of your life, what color would that be? cream color it goes with everything and is for everyone.
7. If you were far into a project and then noticed a mistake near the beginning what would you do? Depends on how big the mistake, does it affect the knitting now or can it be written off as a design element....Depending on the answers either ripping it back or just doing the mistake again to help the design element work.

8. Where is the most unsual spot you've ever knit? Let's see I knit everywhere, including my DD basketball games(jr varsity and varsity), during wrestling meets, and work when it is really slow.(I work at a grain elevator). So I guess you could pick one and say that is it. I don't think they that unusual but maybe for some they are. It is funny because now when I go to various events I see more people bringing their Knitting with them than I did before.

Harvest Time!!!

2007-08-18T07:12:00.000-05:00

Finally, the weather has cooperated enought that the farmers can bring the wheat without too much rain. So I am going to work this morning to deal with some scale tickets and then taking my children along with my dh in search of school clothes. I am not looking forward to it. My boys can't decide or don't care what we buy but do care the minute we try to get them to wear it. My girl has most of her stuff done but she needs jeans and getting her to buy jeans is just as bad as the boys. Heaven forbid she actually try something on.....it might fit.....lol

So that is my busy day, I am just itching for a fiber fix....but don't have time to go thru my fibers. I think I might just bring a ball to work to take the edge off. I knitting relaxing time......

I have started working on my Faroese shawl again. I just have to do about 30 rows on the border and I am DONE! Can't hardly believe it....Only started it around Christmas time last year. Maybe I can get it done. Let's hope then I will have something to post.....

Have a safe and profitable harvest....

Today is my DH's 40th birthday

2007-08-11T12:52:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe that we are this old. Just seems like yesterday we were 20 something. But I guess time marches on, doesn't it. We aren't doing too much today. Just relaxing with the kids and I will make him a steak dinner with all the trimmings. So just a low key relaxing day for him. Tomorrow we will go to a casino for some adult style fun. It will be nice to get away for a few hours. I still need to do some paperwork for the youth organization I am on the board of but hopefully, that won't take too long. Since it has been raining for the last few days harvest is slow in coming but I am sure it will hit with a vengance soon enough.

Better go do some housework and then Knit the MS 3. I just finished Clue 1 last night after I started over last week. So I started Clue 2 this morning. Hope to get some more done on it today sometime. I will finish this it is a fun and interesting knit.

Secret Pal Questionnaire 11

2007-08-06T12:09:00.000-05:00

. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?I like to knit with wool and most natural fibers but I love to knit with Alpaca/wool or Alpaca silk or etc. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? Nothing really scratchy or rough.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I just bought the KnitPicks circular set.(love it) I also use an old knitting container that was my mother's.

3. How long have you been knitting & how did you learn? I taught myself to both crochet and knit. Crocheting I learned 20 years ago. Knitting just 2 years ago. Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? Knitting wise I am an advanced beginner

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?Yes I do have one

http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/ref=yourlists_pop_1/002-4335336-9426412

5. What's your favorite scent? lily of the valley is a favorite; cucumber melon from Bath and body works too really anything fresh and floral.

6. Do you have a sweet tooth? sort of I like sweets Favorite candy? Hot Tamales(cinnamon candy) or Ferre Rocher(hazelnut candy with chocolate)

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? I scrapbook too Do you spin? Yes I am learning to spin. I have my own wheel and lots of fiber to play with.

8. What kind of music do you like?Everything except Rap Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)Yes, I can do mp3.

9. What's your favorite color(s)? I love all colors I tend to like pinks, blues,and greens But I am game for just about any colors Any colors you just can't stand? The only ones are muddy or mid tone colors

10. What is your family situation? I am married (20 years) and have 3 kids (dd15,ds 12, and ds 5) Do you have any pets? I have 2 dogs.

11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos? I live in North Dakota. I wear everything in the winter except ponchos...just never really liked them

12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit? Right now I have been knitting shawls among other things.

13. What are you knitting right now? The list is long ...I am knitting Mystery Stole 3,
finshing a Faroese shawl, Left front of a Bristow cardi (knitty pattern) and a second sock There are others but these are the ones I am actively doing.

14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Yes, Please and Thank you

15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? I think both have their place but am loving circular needles right now. I bought the Knit Picks set not too long ago. So loving those.
Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I like wood for sock dpns Have lots of aluminum and haven't really tried plastic yet.

16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? No and No...someday....

17. How old is your oldest UFO? Bristow (1 year plus)

18. What is your favorite holiday? Easter because it is time for new beginnings

19. Is there anything that you collect? Teapots

20. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?This one http://www.twoswansyarns.com/cgi-bin/category.cgi?item=N1090&template=pattern ,Euroflax linen, bamboo yarn, Faroese shawl book, The book list will be on Amazon.com also Kauni Cardi yarn.

What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I receive Interweave Knits.

21. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? Magic Sock, Fair Isle

22. Are you a sock knitter?Barely
What are your foot measurements? Wear a Size 10 US

23. When is your birthday? January

24. Are you on Ravelry? If so, what's your ID? I am on the waiting list near the end

If you are my Secret Pal, just let me know if you want more details.

I am looking forward to getting to know someone new and spoiling someone new too.

Gotta go things are getting busy. Hope to get back here later this week.

Been a busy time....and hot.....

2007-07-27T18:48:00.000-05:00

I am excited I finally found another Secret Pal going on. I missed the last few but that is okay was too busy to do it justice anyway. So I trying to come up with things to do for my Secret Pal who I don't know yet.

Knitting wise not doing too much but working on my Mystery Stole 3. I'm almost done with Clue 1 but I am way behind. It started while I was on vacation and didn't get to do it then. Then catching up from vacation...etc. Life got in the way but I am liking it more as it gets bigger. Plus I have been working on it at work so I get a few hours to work without distractions except for the occaisonal phone call.

Just a pic of spring!

I was thinking today about how many things I have on the needles well...here is the list

Faroese Shawl--down to the border part and soon the beaded picot edging

Cozy stole(knitty pattern)- about 1/4 into it but haven't touched it in months.

Cabled scarf-halfway need to add the new ball to continue.

Second sock-3/4 of the way done just need to do the foot and toe part.

Baby sweater-1/4 done just lost interest in this one.

Bristow- still working on that left front. I think that will be my next stick to it until its done project.

I have bought some yarn with projects in mind and some just because.

I also have a lot of fiber to spin up and to mention the fleece to get ready to spin. Generally speaking if I didn't do anything for a year I would have yarn aplenty.

I will have to get some pics up. Took lots of them while on vacation it was nice to see family and renew relationships.

Thinking of ways to repay some kindnesses but don't know if I am that fast of a knitter. Probably not.....someday.

I am a bad blogger!!!!

2007-06-12T18:11:00.000-05:00

I missed the entire month of May! Well,I guess I was busy with end of school year stuff and spring planting. Oh, Well!!! I haven't done too much knitting though or spinning for that matter. But did do some today even though it is sooo flipping hot here. From really cold to really hot.... can't be happy medium. Any way, I am still working on Bristow even though I frogged the front again. I should just do it and finish so I can start the right. I am still working on the Faroese shawl. That is coming along almost to the border now. I did do a bad thing and ordered a whole cone of Zephyr yarn. It was half the price of anywhere else and so far great service at Sarah's yarns. Looking forward to my yarn should be here at the end of the week. This is for the Mystery Stole 3. Great idea and can't wait to finish my swatch and see what I did to do either go up or down a needle size. Well, when my son's camera battery gets charged I will post pictures of my shawl and other things.

May Already!!!

2007-04-30T22:05:00.000-05:00

I know, I know...not really original but hey who cares....I have been super busy these last few weeks. I work for a grain elevator so it is spring planting time finally and so my job goes nutso for a few weeks. So I work ten hours not a lot of time left for knitting and blogging and such.

Knitting wise I seem to be addicted to knitting the Faroese shawl...it is easy and challenging all at the same time. I like the lace gusset so that is the only challenging part and the rest is garter stitch so ....easy and you please and with my brain needing a vacation it is the perfect project for all those busy days. I don't think I have knit anything else this entire month. I did sew up half a kimono and one sock. I did do a few rounds on my second sock but it looks pretty much like it does in the photo on the last entry. Everything else is the same too. I should do a second baby sock to go with the first but don't know if that is happening any time soon.

I have exciting news....I was able to win an ebay bid for a wheel....I am so excited in a few weeks a new wheel....I can't wait I might clean the house for the new addition. Well, got to go and decide what is my UFO for this month. I am thinking Bristow cardi really REALLY need to get that front done.

See ya....

April Already!!!!

2007-04-02T21:14:00.000-05:00

Wow the month of March went by way too fast. Between finishing up
Basketball for DD to starting wrestling for DS. It has been a lot of traveling, not so great weather and changes at work. It was alot running around and such. I did almost exclusively knit on my Faroese Shawl. I am up to about 300 stitches so far only have to get to around 500 when it will be almost done. At increasing 4 stitches every other row. It might be a while. I think for the month of April I WILL get my left front done. I need to get that done some time this century. I love the yarn(knitpicks andean silk) just feel like I have to concentrate on what I am doing with all the cables and watching the pattern. I think I will start the left sleeve too.

I will take pics soon and see what progress i have made on the shawl and then be able to see the progrees of the cardi too.

I have been researching spinning wheels. I have two spindles and like that but am finding it slow to figuring it out. I think I have got the idea just need a bit of a reassurance as to the technique. I am trying to find a guild in the area. I do know of a women who spins near me I just have to ask around for her name. I am going to start a spinning wheel fund and maybe by the end of summer I will have enough to buy either a Louet S10 or S15. I just bought more merino roving on ebay. May try my hand at dyeing some of it since it is white.

I have also been scrapbooking lately too. I went to a weekend retreat a couple of weekends ago. It was wonderful to get away and just relax and do something I enjoy without all the worry of dinner, kids and guilt about not being with my family. It was well worth the money. I got 28 8x8pages done. I just have to finish the albums I started not to mention the thousand other things I have to do. I should make a list. ...

I will try to post more but don't count on it. It is getting busier here all the time. Especially with spring planting right around the corner.

Snow Day and March UFO challenge

2007-03-01T09:47:00.000-06:00

cozy

cabled scarf
bristow left cardi
my second sock....

I finally got the pics uploaded...Yeah!!!! We had about 7" of snow last night and more to follow today so no work or school today.

This month I want to concentrate on getting my cabled scarf done and the left front of Bristow done. I have started 2 new projects this month. I am doing well with that. The list is ever growing. We now have: Faroese shawl, cabled scarf, Cozy(lacy shawl), Bristow cardi, and second sock. Five projects on the needles. Hopefully, I can get this down to about 3 this month.

But I am knitting so that is good now I have to some scrapbooking too. Maybe this snowy weekend I can get something done there as well.

Update on the UFO Challenge

2007-02-23T07:56:00.000-06:00

I have bee working on my Cozy pattern from Knitty. Cozy is coming a long I am on the second skein so that is good and the pattern is looking better than the first time I did it. I am using bigger needles this time and it is making all the difference.

Bristow is at a point that I am going to just have to finish it so I don't forget where I am in the pattern. It might be this weekend. We are scheduled to have a winter storm so that means staying home and knitting and crafting. Hope it won't be too crazy with 3 kids and hubby stuck home too.

The Faroese shawl is coming a long as well. It is beside my bed waiting patiently for me to finish. It is easier than I thought so it is an easy knit.

I also started my second sock so that is easy too. I am hoping it comes out close to the first one.
Someday I will find my camera and post pictures of my finished objects.

Well I have to go I will post what my next month's concentrated objects will be later.

I have a dr appt and various other errands .

Things started and things finished....

2007-01-30T20:41:00.000-06:00

Well, I went to a crop this weekend and got 3 2pg layouts done so that was good. I finished my sock today at work....yes...work is a little slow. I started and finished in a week a baby sock. I still have to sew it together but it is done. I also finished my baby kimono from MSD book in purple I need to sew that one together too. But I did finish knitting it though so that was a good accomplishment this month. So unfinished object challenge is working.

Baby kimono done.
baby sock done.
my first sock done.

Working on
left front of Bristow
Faroese shawl
Irish hiking scarf
Cozy...(this maybe be headed for the frog pond though)

Feb will be Bristow and Shawl still I think.

It is still cold here and getting colder. I also have some great movies for knitting maybe when I find a few minutes this week. I don't know though. Maybe tomorrow will be movie night. DD has a thing she is going to. I don't have to take her yeah!!! Thurs is a Bball game. Friday possible movie night...too. Sat bball game again Sunday afternoon and evening...prime knitting time ....Superbowl....

I will post pics when I find my digi camera....misplaced it somewhere.

Lots to blog about...

2007-01-20T10:42:00.000-06:00

Not liking this winter idea....but it has warmed up a bit so I really can't complain.

I have been listening to Pixiepurls podcast. She found a blog that is encouraging everyone to finish some of those UFO's. So I will follow that. I have finally finished the baby kimono. Just have to stitch it up. So one down just another 7 or so to go.

Let's see what are my UFO's....

Irish cabled Hiking scarf
Bristow cardi..back is done bout half way on the left front.
Faorese lace shawl
A simple sock
prayer shawl in merino wool.

These are all that I can think of right now.
Wanted to get some scrapping books done too.
Cards to do and such.

Should also work on some dishcloths/washcloths. ..

There is always something I can find to do.
I have lots of cotton and some sock yarn in my stash to do something with have to work on that.

I will be working on Bristow predominately for the rest of the month. With a few rows of the Faro Shawl.

Will post pictures later.

Winter has arrived

2007-01-12T07:10:00.000-06:00

Winter has come woke up to -17 degrees F. This morning.....very very cold....I must go and shower and face the cold.

Knitting and paper crafting are going to my world this weekend.

New year, new blog.....

2007-01-04T07:28:00.000-06:00

Well, it has been a busy week or so. Had an enjoyable holiday. The weather here has gone crazy. It is raining here in ND in January. Usually it is -20 or something and with some snow. We have the snow but rain....never at not as long as I have lived here. I have not kept up with the journaling my christmas very well. I have done to about Dec 10 but that is all. I will try to find time later and do it then. I did start knitting a shawl with a lace inset. It is coming along nicely. I do have ten other things I should be finishing but we all know how that goes. I am going to start doing the Artist's way and see if I can keep my creativity going. Let you know how it all goes.

Talk to you all later.

Journaling my Christmas Day #2!

2006-12-02T12:37:00.000-06:00

Well I am no expert on blogger either. Some day I will learn how to get pictures to go where I want them to. This my day 2 entry. I spread the journaling across the two pages.

Here is the Journaling in a more comprehensive manner.

Christmastime has always meant snow and ice . I grew up in Ohio and snow was generally present. I made snowmen and snowball fights with the neighborhood kids. The winters never got terribly cold. Thermometer at zero was cold, snow crunching under foot...nose a bit cold...uncomfortable, yes, but not life threatening.
I live in North Dakota now, winter has a whole new meaning, -20*F isn't unusual, the cold is life threatening if out for more than a few minutes. My kids don't usually play in the snow like we used to. I have learned to always wear gloves and hats...etc because it gets COLD! I still enjoy the season with lots of clothes and coffee.I do lots of indoor thnigs but the live nativity is one I will brave the COLD for. It is a special event and one new tradition to add to our family. My kids think snow is just a season to get thorough until spring. I hope one day they can appreciate the snow for its beauty than the ugly side of the cold that goes with it.

There it is in a nutshell. the snowflakes were made by me and my daughter. It was fun to make them again.

Journaling my Christmas

2006-12-02T10:01:00.000-06:00

I have decided to come back to blogger. Journalspace wasn't letting me do things I wanted to do.

I know how this all works so I am back.

I am taking this class online about journaling your Christmas so far it is lots of fun. I am remembering making snowflakes.

It is fun to creative with paper and scissors again. Back to basics for me. I post my Manifesto/committment to being creative every day during this season.

2006-08-13T10:55:00.000-05:00

This one of the things I have been working on. It is the baby Kimono from mason dixon knitting. I am knitting it for my newest great niece. She is a few weeks old so I have to hurry to get it done.

It is a new thing for me. I hope to do more knitting out of the book like the hand towels and some of the dishclothes. I really do enjoy the Mason Dixon book. Great knitting. Thank you Secret Pal for the book.

So there is a knitting update. More later.

This is my tattoo.....granted it is a henna tattoo. Yes, it was temporary. I really enjoyed getting it. I got as part of my weekend to a Christian woman's retreat. We learned about India and Pakistan. It was fun to learn about different cultures and how they relate to our own. We got to meet a couple who grew up in Pakistan. The lady gave anyone who wanted one a henna tattoo. It was lots of fun learning about different religions and investigating my own. I may have to try my hand at henna tattooing too.

Secret Pal 8 posting challenge....

2006-08-02T06:41:00.000-05:00

Okay...at least this gives me something to say even though...I should have lots to say about my weekend away....another day.

1. What is your favorite season....My favorite season is the beginning of all of them....the first crisp fall day, the first snow, the first flower in spring and the first really warm day in summer.

2. My favorite place to vacation would be anywhere there are trees and indoor plumbing.

3. I would be an artist...spending my days either knitting or scrapbooking....design things and just enjoying the process.

4. my favorite thing to knit is everything....and crochet I like to crochet baby afghans.

5. Right now....this changes according to mood or season....Ice Cream....with cookies...

6. Favorite way to relax and unwind is a hot bath, a good book and knitting.

So there you have it me in a nut shell. I am a simple girl. I don't even need to TV....well, I do like to know the news but I can use radio for that.
I will do another installment soon. I had a tattoo.....

Secret Pal post.....

2006-07-20T18:41:00.000-05:00

Okay...I haven't died or anything but have been busy with my new job. I am a bookkeeper at a local grain elevator. So I am learning new things and remember how to do old things. I have trying to do some knitting from the new book that my secret pal sent me. I started the baby kimono but haven't gotten too far with it. I am doing it in a lilac Lion brand cotton. It is for my new great niece. I just have to get it done soon.

I know that my secret pal is out of the country for the a while but I know she will be back soon. I am trying to figure out some things to get for my secret pal. Too many choices...but will just have to choose something.

Talk to you all soon. I have a retreat this weekend my first time to go away by self. It should be interesting.

Lots of Things.....

2006-07-03T20:09:00.000-05:00

These are some of things I made for a craft fair this last weekend. These were fun and easy to make. I only sold two paper bag books and 3 cards but it was fun though. I think I will put some things on ebay and see how they do there.

Let's see what else is new in my life.....

I got a job as a bookkeeper at our local grain elevator so I will be able to use my education as an accountant and learn some new things too. I am looking forward to it but also a little anxious about going back to work after 4 years off.

Seth is doing really well with the potty training. I think we might be close to real underpants. He knows that life is changing but he doesn't know how though. Autumn will watch him until just before school starts so hopefully, the transition will be easier for him. He will also start preschool this fall too. Lots of changes for him.

Thank you Secret pal. I got my book....Mason Dixon knitting. I am already knitting the baby kimono. My niece is having another baby so it will be for her. I love so many things in this book. I can't wait to make the dishcloths and other things too.

Happy Fourth of July!!! We have had a long weekend of various events here and tomorrow is the culmination of everything. We will go to the parade and have a barbeque with some friends. Then fireworks at night.

Then I have to get up for work in the morning. Wish me luck.....

Blog a Book along: Chapter 5 Stress/anxiety....

2006-06-14T12:30:00.000-05:00

I am going to answer one of the writing prompts...Do I grow up in an anxiety rich environment? How did it affect me as a kid?

Yes, I did grow up in an anxiety rich environment because when I was 9 years old my world changed. My mother who was my world at the time had an aneryseum that left her alive but partial paralyzed and having to learn everything all over again. I also ended up sick with scarletina and very scared that nothing would ever be the same. All of a sudden my rock wasn't there. My siblings were all a lot older than me and had lives of their own. My father was there but he had my mother to take care of...so there was a lot of anxiety in my home for a lot of years as we adjusted to the changes. I ended up taking care of my parents by the time I was ten. I did the laundry, cooking, and cleaning etc. I don't know what a normal childhood is like because I didn't really have one. I learned more about pharmacology than most adults. Needless to say I had a lot of responsiblity and some say in the household but I still needed some direction and guidance. My father had did the best he could but he also helped me to see that I could do anything as long as I wanted it badly enough.

I learned thru my experiences what I don't want for my children but also learned coping mechanisms to deal with my life without pills or drugs. I have learned mediation as a way to relieve stress and worries. I know my signals that I need to release things. My dh has learned various things thru his life as well and we have practiced them together. We try to have a peaceful household but fun and loving household as well. I don't want to a friend to children I want to be a guide and sounding board. These are things that I always wanted with my parents. I don't like feeling anxious so I have worked to change that. I know some people don't have that luxury of having time to deal with their anxieties but I know once they deal with them, They function better. I think Dyer is not realizing that not all children are totally accepting and free from anxiety. My son has always been anxious and nervous since he was small. My dh and I have shared with him our ways of coping and encouraged him to find his own peace with himself. Sometimes this works and sometimes it doesn't but we do try to him figure out why he worries and if it is something he can change to feel in control of it.

I also think there is a fine line between worry and concern....I call it worry but maybe it is concern....I worry that my kids as they find their independence they are not harmed badly...I worry that my husband's health doesn't get worse or that he has an accident....I think these things are some things I can not change but I still worry because I love them and don't want to lose them to something that we could have prepared for. So worry or concern.....where is the line and do we know if we cross it?

Secret Pal 8......Thank you!!!

2006-06-10T18:38:00.000-05:00

Here are things my secret pal sent me. The yarn is sock yarn and I can't wait to try socks. I might have to take a little while before I do but I will learn to do socks.....

The book is really good. I already finished it. But will probably read it again and again. My secret pal is treating me well.

The knitting is going okay right now. I figured out my left front on my cardigan and that is coming along. I haven't made much progress on anything else because I am working on my paper craft hobby. I am going to do some selling at a craft fair in July so I am busy making things to sell. Plus the kids have been busy as well.

Now that has cooled off...I will be able to make better progress. It has been so hot here and we don't have A/C so it hard to keep the house cool and comfy.
I will try to update about the book in the next few days. I haven't read the last two chapters so will skim those and come up with something tomorrow or Monday.

Blog a book: Chapter 4 Self Reliant.

2006-05-24T20:00:00.000-05:00

This chapter was interesting in that I always want my kids to be self-reliant. A lot of the things Dyer discusses are things that we do with our kids anyway. I have to admit that I am an approval seeker because I think when I was small that is how I got attention. In my family I still seek their approval and usually don't get it. I have learned over the years that seeking approval gets you no where. Thus, I am trying to help my kids to get over that approval thing. My oldest, Autumn, does fine with this and we usually discuss the problems she has and I reassure her that she should just be herself and stick to what she believes regardless of everyone else. My middle child, Jacob has trouble with this and is a terrible approval seeker. I am trying to wean him away from this but it is very frustrating. My littlest one, I have been really aware of the little things..ie. spilled milk, I try not to get angry but just clean it up and sometimes include him in the process. I truly believe that we all need to make sure our kids don't blame others for their problems.

I agree with Dyer most in this chapter...as I have figured these things out for myself and try to help my kids find that they have the power within themselves. Don't go looking for something that is right inside you.

Blog A book Along: What do I really want for my Children?

2006-05-18T07:51:00.000-05:00

Chapter 3: I want my children to be risk takers.

I do want my children to take some risks. Dyer says you don't grow if you don't take risks. I believe this to be true because the times I have taken risks I have learned something or grown is some way. I understand what he means we have to excited and not fearful. It is a scary thing to change something or do something that takes us out of our comfort zone. I think you need to change the fear to excitement. Sort of putting the positive spin on it. After all fear and excitement cause the same bodily reaction..heartrate increases, you sweat, etc....I think it is all in how you use that reaction. Everytime I get fearful I try to turn that into excitement rather than be paralzyed by the fear. The quote" The only thing we have to fear is fear itself" by FDR. I think fear can be the monster under the bed that we tend to not want to deal with but once we do everything is so much better.

The best thing that I got out of this chapter was about Do your best...to be changed to just Do it. I have one child that is a risk taker and one that isn't. I have used everything in my power to get the non risk taker to takes the risk of being wrong which is his biggest fear. Sometimes he does take the risks and I try to be there to let him know that that was a good job to just take the risk but I know he just thinks it is stupid to do things that you fear. Because it is uncomfortable but it is way a to enlarge your world. So I think I will drop the "your best" part and just say "DO"! Because best is very subjective to everyone at different times.

This is a very interesting book in that it is helping me look at my parenting in a different way and it is also verifying to me that I am doing some good things too.

Knitting......update.....

2006-05-10T09:57:00.000-05:00

This what I have been up to with my knitting. This is the back of my Bristow Cardigan. I have since finished it so that is something. I have started the
left front now.
The next photo is my prayer shawl and I finished this one too. It is very warm and feels nice too. I am so tired of knitting with LB homespun that I won't be doing that any time soon.
The scarf is the Irish hiking scarf for the knitalong. I am not done with that one. I like doing it but I have to do it when I am not going to be bothered to much. I tend to get lost on my count. I did start a lace project Cozy from knitty. But need to concentrate on that one too. I am probably going to start another prayer shawl in Merino knit picks iris color. That is a very easy knit and relaxing. I need to have various projects going to meet my needs. I also am trying to learn socks but that isn't coming along like I hoped.

These are the knit markers I made using directions from
www.wormspit.com/stitchmarkers Very nice......

Well that is all of my projects currently. So yes, I did knit and scrapbook too. Maybe I will get some of that up soon too. Stay posted.....

Blog a book along: Chapter 2

2006-05-10T09:36:00.000-05:00

This was more interesting chapter. I so completely understand what he means. My son has low self-esteem. We have done all of things that Mr Dyer describes. Some of these things were hard to do because you have think before you speak. When my dh and I had our first child we decided that we change some of the things that our parents did. Our parents did some things that we didn't like or made us feel good about ourselves so we decided that we wouldn't perpetuate that way.

The first thing we decided was that we would tell our children that we loved them daily. We would also make sure that we disapproved the behavior not the child. Also we would tell our children that they could accomplish anything as along as they gave it their all. So many of Dyer's concepts are not new to me.

I think the reason that my son has such problems is that the daycare provider that I used was not as diligent about watching the speech and such. I also for some reason stopped hugging and kissing my son thinking that it would make him more needy. I know now that was wrong. I do make an effort to hug and kiss him even though he is 11. So he is coming along but it is a long hard road. He has all of the problems that Dyer describes. I think I am going to try the imagery ideas to see if that will make a dent in his ability to succeed. Right now it is hard for him to try new things because he gets frustrated if they aren't perfect right away. So maybe if he can imagine himself succeding it will be a step in the right direction.

Now, my daughter on the other hand, is the a good start on no limit person. She is good at lots of things and just expects that she will be. Not to say that she doesn't try new things but she does get discouraged sometimes but she doesn't let that stop her. Maybe she will be the first no limit person I meet.....

Secret Pal 8

2006-05-05T07:35:00.000-05:00

1. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with? What fibers do you absolutely *not* like? I like anything that is soft that could be acrylic or natural fiber. I don't like anything scratchy.

2. What do you use to store your needles/hooks in? I use my mother's old knitting case. It looks like a bottle container .

3. How long have you been knitting? I have only been knitting a little over the year. Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced? I am a beginner but I will try anything.

4. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list? http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/ref=yourlists_pop_1/102-7439220-0178514
5. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.) I love anything citrusy. My two favorites are cucumber melon and pink grapefruit.
6. Do you have a sweet tooth?Yes... Favorite candy? Caramel or toffee anything with those two things in them are my faves.

7. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?I also scrapbook and make cards. Do you spin? Yes, I am learning to spin with a spindle.

8. What kind of music do you like?I like anything except rap. Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD) Yes my music devices with play anything.

9. What's your favorite color? I don't really have a favorite color
Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? I tend to like any blues or greens or pinks.Any colors you just can't stand? no

10. What is your family situation?I am married and have 3 kids (dd-14, ds -11, ds-3) Do you have any pets? 2 dogs and 2 cats
11. Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?I wear scarves and mittens.
12. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?Anything is wonderful right now.
13. What are you knitting right now? Let's see....I am working on a cardigan(Bristow from knitty), a cabled scarf, and a shawl(Cozy from knitty).
14. Do you like to receive handmade gifts? Yes
15. Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic? I have really have experience with Aluminum. I have two bamboo circulars but haven't figured out how to make them work for me.
16. Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift? NO
17. How did you learn to knit? I taught myself.
18. How old is your oldest UFO? A cabled scarf that I started in Dec 2005
19. What is your favorite holiday? I like all the holidays
20. Is there anything that you collect? Yarn and scrapbook supplies
21. Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on?I would like the yarn harlot books and a cable book by Fiona Ellis. What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have? I only subscribe to Interweave Knits
22. Are there any new techniques you'd like to learn? I am learning cables and lace.
23. Are you a sock knitter? Trying to learn that too What are your foot measurements? circumference=10 inches....Length 9.5 inches
24. When is your birthday? (01/18)

Sunday Scribbles

2006-05-01T11:20:00.000-05:00

I live where I live because I love the country and the peace and quiet that it brings. I love the old farm house we live in. It has big open rooms and lots of light. I grew up on the shores of Lake Erie and now I live on the shores of grains and all things living. It is very peaceful and safe. I am far from my family which is a good thing I think. I love my family but I like that they have to make an effort to drop by. My dh and I found the house of our dreams in the place of our dreams.

Blog a book along: parenting

2006-05-01T10:28:00.000-05:00

Chapter 1:

What I thought about it? Obviously, I don't know a true no limit person. I do try to have some of the things that he says make one a no limit person. I try to have self respect and self confidence even though there are days when that isn't too forth coming. I also liked the idea of affective domain. I agree that the schools are more interested in what you know rather than how you feel. My ds has an anxiety problem that manifests itself at school. Every where else he is fine. But in school he feels pressured which results in feeling of inadequacies etc.. We are working on it but it is a long hard road. So I do monitor how and what I say to him because he takes everything very seriously and internalizes it. I always try to put the positive spin on things. I don't like the idea of perfect creation. No one is perfect. I think perfectionism is the root of all that is bad. I usually do tell my children that I love them for themselves not what they do or what they will do. I tell them I hope that they think of others as well as themselves. I also believe that the kids know what they might want to be when they grow up. I have never said you have to be "blah". I am actually very surprised what my children say interests them. One wants to be a sports therapist(physical therapy) and one wants to be a librarian. I feel that it is very important to be examples for our children but I think most of us know this. So not too much new for me in this chapter.

Blog a book along: parenting....

2006-04-24T16:29:00.000-05:00

I finally was able to read the intro yesterday. My thoughts on it are I am all for eradicating the self-defeating attitudes. I know I have a few and really do try to get rid of them. The neurotic dividends is definitely something I willing to not have anymore. What I really liked about the intro was that he included some things other than what he thought. His mom's poem to him is something I have often said to myself. That we as parents are there to guide them and then be willing to step aside and them try and fail if need be. But to be there when they need to understand and support them. I am also not wanting to be a friend to my kids they need someone to guide them and support them not just be liked by them. I am looking forward to more of this book.

It is a good day!!

2006-04-18T09:15:00.000-05:00

The kids are back in school and there might be a little rain. So it is all good. Busy most of the weekend with church and family. It was a nice relaxing weekend. Now I just have to clean up from that weekend. I have been doing some reading trashy and informative. I have been reading up on spinning so it is interesting and helping me understand the what all the new terms mean. I am going to have to seek out the guild and a person near me that know spins. It is wonderful to learn something new.

I got a few rows of knitting in but haven't done anything with my scrapping. I have to fit in a new to me bookshelf. IT will be fun to do some spring cleaning.

Have a wonderful spring and enjoy the butterflies.

2006-04-13T13:48:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe it has been two weeks. Time is flying by again. I haven't done Rhonna's challenge very well. I got up to about day 14 and time just got away from me again. I will have to do on my own again. Thanks to everyone who commented on my blog. I enjoyed everyone's journals. I will stop again from time to time on some of them.

Now, I am going to start bloggin a book on parenting. I have 3 kids who sometimes I think get the better of me. I want so many things for them that I don't know where to begin sometimes. We will be reading and commenting on this book. What do you really want for your children? by Wayne Dyer. It sounds like an interesting book. I am looking forward to reading it and thinking about what it says. Check it out...the button on the right.

I better get going I have some errands I need to do today.

Challenge Day 3

2006-03-29T18:31:00.000-06:00

I changed up a bit seeing everyone working with other mediums made want to get my water colors out and play a bit. So I know it makes it hard to read but here is the journaling:
I accomplished one more day of cleaning and picking up. It does make a difference. MY husband and children are noticing the difference too. It was really nice to eat at the table last night.

Seth woke up during the night it reminded me of when I was a child and would get into bed with my parents. My mom would stroke my hair until I fell asleep. NowI do that for my children. Life does take many twists and turns.

The adage when life gives you lemons make lemonade. So it is with a problem, make it into something to nourish and renew yourself. Don't let go to waste because you will also waste that opportunity to grow and become more, every experience brings something to you.

2006-03-28T14:38:00.000-06:00

I think that this quote sums up what I have always believed but lost somewhere along the way. I always sais I wanted to live with "No Regrets". I guess I should revisit that philosophy.

Dream Big

as your Heart

can be

This is what I think when I read this. I have forgotten so much of what I learned when I was young. Your heart should be full of dreams. You are only limited by your dreams so we can all do big things and more then we think we can.

day 2 of 21 day Challenge

2006-03-28T13:58:00.000-06:00

I enjoyed this page too....keeping it simple and consistent. I am also doing thoughts about the quotes of the day too. I might just do that as blog entry as well. so another day of picking up and cleaning things up has gone well. I hope to be able to do these as second nature at the end of this.

21 Day Challenge--Day 1

2006-03-27T18:48:00.000-06:00

I enjoyed doing this page. It is very simple but I want the journaling to be the main thing. It was fun to get out the markers and the stamps and play again. This is like a treat after doing my challenge. I can't wait until tomorrow's inspiration.

Look at what I did!!!!

2006-03-15T08:13:00.000-06:00

I went and got 3 books coil bound. It is so nice to be able to lay this book flat to work from. I can't wait to put it into practice. It only cost a little over $10 to do 3 books. I think this is so worth it. I went to Officemax their copy center there. It didn't take to long either about 30 mins or so. So I am looking forward to getting more of my books done like this. If you like this go for it, it is so easy and well worth it. I hated that the books always would flop closed or you had to bend back the pages to see what you wanted to work on.

Interesting March....so far..

2006-03-14T09:34:00.000-06:00

Well, March has been trying to say the least. My dh has been in and out of the hospital for a heart condition that he has had for some time. So hopefully, next week we will get more answers than we have right now.

I did get to start on my sweater Kal for the year. I am really liking the Andean Silk from Knit picks. I love the color Cranberry too. I hope to get my other things finished up this week too. I made some knit markers last weekend too. They came out really pretty. I need to get some more circles to make some more though.

Scrapbooking I haven't done much but think about getting some books coil bound. That would really help to work from them. I have been working on my swap items but that is it. I really need to clean my room and organize it better so I can work up there. I better get going and clean the house some and clean my scrap room too. I also want to get some knitting done too.

Thoughts on life

2006-02-27T08:14:00.000-06:00

This last week has been really sad. A local teen was killed in a rollover car accident. She wasn't wearing her seatbelt and was ejected. She was only 16 years old. My daughter is 14 and wanting to drive. This is something that scares me. Watching this girl's mother grieve for her is really hard. I know that could be anyone of us as mothers. This has made me want to hug my kids harder and longer. It is also hard to let them out of my sight as if that would make them safer. It is hard thing to do is let our children go off on their own. I just don't know if I could bear losing a child. It is something no one expects and is hard to prepare for. This also brought back all the recent funerals I have been to. They were all different... my nephew's was a testament to his ability to bring help people with anything. He helped people overcome addiction to drugs and live a better life by encouraging people to go to school. My FIL's funeral was about a person who lived a long life and was very obvious with his faith. He always had an opinion and spoke them openly. My mother's was more about her family and how she helped us all grow up to be very different people. I hope people will remember this girl with fondness and love. So everyone hug people closer to you, you never know when it will be your last.

2006-02-27T08:11:00.000-06:00

You Are Sunshine

Soothing and calmYou are often held up by others as the idealBut too much of you, and they'll get burned
You are best known for: your warmth Your dominant state: connecting

What Type of Weather Are You?

Happy Valentine's day!!!

2006-02-14T08:36:00.000-06:00

My hubby is the best in the whole world. He always remembers my birthday and Valentine's as well as our anniversaries. I saw he left me my Valentine this morning before he left for work. I have to finish his gift/Valentine this morning. He is always so thoughtful. Not to mention all forgiving for all my misdeeds. I like Valentine's day. I usually always make my own Valentines. I wanted to get some out for my family but never quite got that far. Well, there is always Easter...

Now, on the Craft front>>> I have completed another dishcloth. I am working on my prayer shawl still...getting closer to done there. I have almost completed a heart dishcloth.. just have to knit the last 4 rows and bind off. My Irish cable scarf is still very short. Hope to concentrate on that this week. I am cheering on all of the Olympic Knitters. I just couldn't enter I have so many unfinished things to complete thought that Finishing some things would be a better idea. So that is my knitting update.
Scrapbooking. I did complete 12 Valentines for my women's church group. I have started my Dh's Valentine just have to find pictures of the kids and do a few more pages. Have a long list of layouts to do have to get organized to do them. I have completed all my swap things just have to get them mailed. Someday...I will get some what caught up.
Lots of ideas not enough time or energy.

Have a great Valentine's day...kiss someone.....

2006-02-10T09:32:00.000-06:00

Your Fashion Style is Classic

You like what's stood the test of time...Simple, well styled clothes that don't scream trendyYou stay updated and modern, but your clothes stay in style for a whileYou wouldn't be caught in animal prints, fake fur, or super bright colors

What's" Your Fashion Style?

2006-02-02T08:31:00.000-06:00

New month, new style?! I don't know...but the weather it seems is going to change into more winter like in the next few days. Thanks, Phil(the groundhog). I certainly have enjoyed this winter it has been wonderfully warm by North Dakota standards. Can't really complain about it at all. I still am looking forward to spring. I really love the mild weather and the birds singing...which by the way some birds have already returned to ND. So I am getting more into the spring mind set. I need to get some scrapping done this week. I did finish one layout this week. But need to do more family ones. I also have to get some Valentine's cards done. Lots to do and no time to do it. Tomorrow is errand day and Saturday we have a basketball game. Sunday is the Superbowl and church so if I am lucky....I might be able to get a few minutes on Sunday but not likely. Oh well, there is next week. Let's see....next week will be less crazy basketball ends this weekend but I have to serve at a game next but after that I am freed up a bit. I am looking forward to it. A quiet week....not sure I know what that is....

2006-01-25T10:17:00.000-06:00

Well, I am another year older. I have been sick for about 10 days now I hope I can get rid whatever this is cold or sinus thing. I hope to be creative today. I want to make some valentines and also start some new layouts. I have all the photos organized just have to get them into some layouts. Lots to do...I also need to finish some knitting. Just never enough time to do it all. I am missing my Irish hiking scarf somewhere need to find that.... I am waiting today for the UPS man to get here. He is bringing me some gifts today. A scrap tote and some pens... yeah.... Can't wait! I should get a shower and get dressed and do some chores before I can disappear into my craft room. The weather here has been strange. We had high winds and snow and warm temps. Can't understand it but will take it though... North Dakota sure has had lovely weather this winter. Let's hope it continues. I also need to learn how to add links on this site and other things. Look out if I can figure it out....pics everywhere.....

New Year....New thoughts....

2006-01-13T11:19:00.000-06:00

This is a new year I hope new and wonderful things will happen. I have been thinking alot about the past year. It is filled with many things and trying times. Last year, my FIL passed away after having been diagnosed with bone cancer a few months before. He had been battling some health issues over the last few years. So it wasn't unexpected. My dh was upset that he didn't get to visit with his dad before he passed. I just think that my FIL was okay with the fact that he was coming home. I don't think he wanted my dh to see him like he was. So that was a hard way to begin a new year. Once we got home, the kids got their homework done from the time we were gone. My sister called to tell me my mother had passed away unexpectedly. Even though my mother was 81 she was in relatively good health. She had been in a nursing home for the last few years. So this was a surprise in a way. She had put a DNR(do not resucitate) request into place when she moved to the nursing home. So I had grieved a little about that so this was hard but since I was born to my parents late in their life. I had always prepared myself for this eventuality. I guess in a way I will always grieve for her she was my mother. Now it is getting to be a year since her death. I have many times wanted to talk to her and realized that I couldn't tell her what my youngest son was doing and if I did these same things as a child. I can always remember her laugh and her advice. She was a very witty and sarcastic person. I know that I always had a special place in her heart as did all of us. I am the last child of 7. So I am not an only child. There are lots of people to talk with but we are all busy with our lives and not able to explore this idea. Now, I try to keep in contact with my dad alot. He doesn't say much but he does talk to me more than anyone else. He has always been a quiet person. I also try to talk to my MIL alot as well. She is who I worry about the most. She lost her life partner and she has never been alone. She is doing pretty good but I know she misses her love. I know I would be the same for me.
Well, this year I am going to get myself in a better place and trying to understand where I want to be in my life. I hope to become a better artist and person. Accomplish some things that I want to do. Spend time with my children too. Let us hope that this new year brings wonderful and new things.

Bah Humbug?!

2005-12-20T13:09:00.000-06:00

I am having such a hard time with getting into the holiday mood. I just feel stressed and blue, I guess. We have to scrap together money for presents and I don't feel like making cookies. I guess it is to be expected in that this is the first Christmas without my mom and his dad. Even though we weren't home for Christmas it was always nice to talk to them hear about their day. I know I often think about talking to my mom but know that she isn't there any more is sometimes really hard to bear. I guess I took for granted that she would always be there. Being able to call about this receipe or that....or any stories of Christmas' past. I am glad that my Dad is with my sister, Beckie for the holidays anyway. At least, he will have a change of scenery. For some reason I am really missing family this year. We have always stayed here and I have enjoyed it but this year is really hard. Hopefully, once we finish shopping and have some cookies made I will feel better.

Christmas is coming.....

2005-12-19T10:16:00.000-06:00

I think I have been reading too many other blogs and neglecting my own. It has been a busy few weeks in my household. There have been concerts and basketball games. Kids to pick up from practice and take to scouts and try to make some presents. I finished some altered comp books for my neices. They also will get an itunes gift card. I hope they enjoy them..teenagers are hard to buy for. It looks like I am throught the worst of the busyness. I only have scouts tonight and then a basketball game tomorrow. Then I have to figure out sometime to go shopping without the kids. I am thinking Thursday night is looking good. It will be nice to out alone. I have also bid on somethings on ebay that have sold out around here. I still have a CJ to get out. I had hoped to get it done before Christmas but it just hasn't happened. I do have all the parts out just have to get it all together. It has been cold here and have worried about fuel oil and staying warm. I should get the plastic on the windows probably would help some. I need to bake some cookies. AT least I finally got my kids to pin down what they want for Christmas. My dd is still thinking though. Luckily, I am good at power shopping. So it shouldn't take long.
Wish me luck and Merry Christmas to everyone.

Finally finished a knitting project!!!!

2005-12-10T09:37:00.000-06:00

Well, just about anyway, I still have to weave in some loose ends and then it is done. I bound it off last night. It was a garter stitch scarf for my dd. She was very excited to get it finally. It has only taken me about a year to do it. I know I am a slow knitter. I also think Ihave too many projects started. I ended up frogging my chemo cap. I have to figure out how to join on circular needles. I crochet so I know how to join in the round but I think it is different in knitting. more research definitely needed there. Now I just have to finish my prayer shawl and my crocheted baby blanket. I want to learn to knit socks though. I am going to have to get a book about socks and see if I can figure it out. I also have to buy some double pointed needles as I don't have any. Then some yarn for them too. I guess I might have to ask Santa for them this year. Oh well, just thought I would crow about actually getting something OFF the needles for a change.

Knitting...scrapbooking

2005-12-07T10:29:00.000-06:00

Not much these two things have in common but me....I know of a few people who also have this combo hobbies....er..addictions. I love yarn and knitting and crocheting but I also love working with paper and making cards and layouts. I guess it is better to always have different things to work on than nothing at all. I am still trying to finish a prayer shawl and scarf and a hat. I think I am almost done with the scarf because I am almost done with the black yarn. It is for my daughter so she is anxiously waiting for me to be done since it is cold now. I have a few Christmas gifts to make but those will be paper. I also have to clean my house because my insurance guy is stopping by to talk with me about my insurance. I really don't need any more so he is making a wasted trip. But he really wants to come. I have a really busy week so I trying to keep everything in perspective. Tonight is girl scouts, and church. Dinner has to be eaten somewhere between the two. Well, off to clean my house and keep things in perspective. Happy knitting~!

December all ready.....

2005-12-02T10:33:00.000-06:00

Well, it has come too quickly...the month starts off with a busy start...I baked most of the day yesterday and will do it again today. I went to a church get together there was a wonderful brass ensemble playing. Made me remember being in the band and playing all the Christmas music. The music is my favorite part of the season. I have lots of things to make for every one and no time to do them. I will just have to make the time I suppose. Well, I better go and make some phone calls and get to baking.

Introduction

2005-11-17T08:59:00.000-06:00

I am a crafter of many things. I recently learned to knit. I also crochet and scrapbook. I have found that I can't crochet right now because my carpal tunnel makes my hands go numb. Knitting isn't as hard so at least I am able to that. My scrapbook takes up the rest of my time other than that spent with my family. I enjoy that as well.
I have 3 kids one daughter and two sons. They range in age from 14 to 3. They are invovled in many things from scouting to basketball. The next few months will be busy with the holidays and games. I hope to blog as often as I can. I want this a place to be a spot that I can vent my frustration with my crafting and my family too.

A Crafters journal

A Christmas Manifesto

Time for Journal Your Christmas!

Explore Class and Through The Viewfinder

Fleece Washing Experiment

Journaling my Christmas Day 1

Thankful for the snow?

Traditions

Good Intentions

Winter Weather

JYC Manifesto

Thanksgiving prepartions have started.

Happy anniversary to us!

Journal your Christmas

Busy, Busy

vanfire.JPG

Share

The summer is coming to a close

Busy life too much going on

December 1st, Christmas Journal

God gave us a gift

Mom's Birthday

Sheba has gone to a better place

Thoughts on why I spin and knit

long time no blog....not original but true

Spring snow and Robins....

What I have been doing these last weeks

My first plied yarn

A new Year.....2008

Mystery Stole aka Swan Lake Update

Christmas is coming!

Snow, Snow and more Snow....

TGIF!!!!!

Secret pal 11 post!!!

TGIF!!!!!

It's officially Fall for me!

October all ready!

Finally got the computer back...

Fall is arriving and winter is coming....

Pastor Bill Fretwell

Time for updating the UFO list....

8 for SP 11

Harvest Time!!!

Today is my DH's 40th birthday

Secret Pal Questionnaire 11

Been a busy time....and hot.....

I am a bad blogger!!!!

May Already!!!

April Already!!!!

Snow Day and March UFO challenge

Update on the UFO Challenge

Things started and things finished....

Lots to blog about...

Winter has arrived

New year, new blog.....

Journaling my Christmas Day #2!

Journaling my Christmas

Secret Pal 8 posting challenge....

Secret Pal post.....

Lots of Things.....

Blog a Book along: Chapter 5 Stress/anxiety....

Secret Pal 8......Thank you!!!

Blog a book: Chapter 4 Self Reliant.

Blog A book Along: What do I really want for my Children?

Knitting......update.....

Blog a book along: Chapter 2

Secret Pal 8

Sunday Scribbles

Blog a book along: parenting

Blog a book along: parenting....

It is a good day!!

Challenge Day 3

day 2 of 21 day Challenge

21 Day Challenge--Day 1

Look at what I did!!!!

Interesting March....so far..

Thoughts on life

Happy Valentine's day!!!

New Year....New thoughts....

Bah Humbug?!