a girl who knits...

Greasy Fingers

2010-01-20T16:45:00.003-07:00

As I sit here munching on greasy, salty, crunchy chips, I realize that my fingers get me into trouble during the day, when I am at home. I snack on unnecessary food. Why? Because I am bored. When I began watching another child, at their home, I found myself not wanting to snack and munch on food ALL DAY! In the process I think I may have started to shed some of the, much needed, weight!! Yippee. However, for the last three days I have been home with a sick little girl, and not doing much but caring for her, and trying to get some housework done, and yet I find myself binging...NOT GOOD. I have not done this since November, and now all the sudden being home for three days, I see the problem.

In light of this self discovery, I realize, I need to figure this out & fix it. Let's face it, age is affecting some of this, but mostly it's ME! I ask myself some questions too why this is happening & how to stop it... here we go:

Why do I eat when I am not hungry?
Sheer boredom & comfort

Why is it easy when I am not at home?
Because I have to take my food with me & I pack food that reflects a healthy lifestyle. Knowing I am not a healthy eater & in denial

How do I eliminate this problem?
Only keep healthy foods in the house & try to drink more water w/ lemon to curb appetite

Will this work?
Hmm, I am not sure but it is worth a shot

So, help me to get rid of the unhealthy foods that are in my home & encourage me to not bring them in again.

Now for the laziness of it all...I do not exercise & know that I should. I come up with every excuse out there. There really is no reason for the lack of exercise, I just don't do it. I nanny all day in a home & I have plenty of time to fit in in my schedule before or during work... take advantage of what opportunity I have!

So, I am taking on the challenge... The Ultimate Fitness Plan 2010 in the January issue of Women's Health Magazine.... It is an easy, realistic plan to get me motivated! I have signed up & now it is on! I have been saying I will do it for about 2 weeks...have I started? NO!

SO, will you make the effort with me or just encourage me to get off my lazy butt!

Please feel free to leave any encouraging words or tips!!

Oodles of pictures

2010-01-07T15:15:00.001-07:00
I had to put up some great pictures of our Christmas... Enjoy!

Reflections While Sipping Tea..

2010-01-07T14:01:00.065-07:00
As I sit here sipping warm, eggnog, tea I am realizing how wonderfully blessed I am. God has again brought me through another year & phase in my life. When I look back over 2009, I see lots of changes, ups & downs, and many memories shared! What a great year! So many to reflect on, but I need to remember the one constant in my life, God. He has been faithful & true, loving & fair, gentle & kind, trustworthy & comforting. I thank him for all he has done & continues to do.

So, enough reflecting... How was your Christmas & New Year's? Mine was very eventful. Let me share. This year my family, was headed to Illinois for the Christmas Holiday. This would be the first, yes FIRST, time in 12 years that I have spent Christmas in my home town. BIG DEAL! Our plans were to leave on the 23rd, but we ended up leaving in a mad unorganized rush on the 22nd at 11:30 PM because of the weather... So hubby, child, myself, and our 2 dogs piled into the "sleigh" and headed east...What a Nightmare! The weather was horrible. Snow, rain, ice, wind...it took us 24 hours to get there, normally 14 hours, it stunk! But God was able to get us there safely. Once we arrived...the events began, well not really, just hanging out and knitting.. but it was nice. My parents home is decorated so beautifully, it is like a magazine, ahh. After many hugs and kisses, to and from, we made our way home 1 week later. What a wonderful time. I always have such a hard time leaving my family. My hubby doesn't get it. It is emotional for me, sniff, sniff...anyway

Some great gifts were given and received...want to see a few?

I did not do many handmade gifts this year, due to my lifestyle change...see a few posts back, but I had to do some. So...

For my dad...wool socks, & a stocking hat(that was an early one)

For my mom, a beautiful doily

For my grandma's a note card holder

For my sweet little Z a set of baby doll diapers w/ a diaper bag, and a stocking hat & mittens

As for gifts received, we all got many nice things, but the best "material" gift was Z's kitchen cupboard...just look at how cute it is... There are kitchen pots & pans, whisks & spatulas, an adorable tin tea set & the cutest apron. I just love it & so does Z.

Oh what a wonderful time... Until next Christmas

Just wanted to say!

2009-12-20T22:41:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas! I hope you have a blessed and wonderful Holiday! I have been extremely busy getting gifts ready & can't wait to share with you all of them....but, since some people receiving these gifts read my blog, I have to wait until after Christmas to show you!!! Thanks for staying connected. I hope to regroup & start blogging at the beginning of the year!

Also, Thank you so much to all of your warm wishes on our lifestyle change. Things are going great! Z is adapting well & I am enjoying the position very much!

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Soon to come...

2009-12-02T22:33:00.002-07:00
Things are definitely busy! I thank God for all that he is providing for us. I am hoping to be back in the swing of things soon. I most likely will post some projects that I am working on for Christmas...or at least after. Thanks for hanging with me...be back later!!!

So little time...

2009-11-22T21:22:00.002-07:00
I am just dropping a quick note to all of you letting you know I have not forgotten you... I am overwhelmed with changes. As you may have read in the previous post, I got a full time job...babysitting. Z is still with me and I am working at their home everyday! I am going to take a break from posting for a few weeks, probably. I will continue to read yours and give feedback when I find time!

So, catch up with you later..... Oh, and have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

Change

2009-11-12T14:22:00.002-07:00
So, I am writing this post to share the bittersweet changes that are happening RIGHT NOW!! My husband works so very hard to provide for our family, it breaks my heart to see him struggle with the way the economy is. We are a very thrifty family & do not spend much money on extra things...( well, yarn of course). With the ups & downs of life...GULP, I have to get a job. I have been at my home with my daughter since 2 months before she was born... I love it. Freedom, flexibility, comfort, and joy! So, with all the crazy things happening... I found ~~a job~~, a FULLTIME job. Yikes! I will be babysitting a 17 week old little boy at there home... ugh! Z will still be with me & I know that is the only thing that matters.. but to be away from my home 5 days a week, stinks.

Now, they are a wonderful family and are being very accommodating to myself & Z. They will allow me to go do errands, continue to have play dates, go to the library, stores, and the best things is they are willing to let me take him to MOPS!!!!!! Yeah! I know this will be a big adjustment for Z & I, but I know God has this all planned for his favor! I am trying to find out how to be organized and hopefully things will run smoothly. Any suggestions? I have not worked out of my home with Z ever!!

I imagine in the long run it will be fine! I won't be able to waste time at home on the computer all day when I should be doing chores.... boo hoo..., can really get my quiet time & Bible studies done, I guess I will get quite a bit of knitting done, while he is sleeping or just playing.. that is good. This, I think, will force me to be disciplined to keep my home clean and in order, so when we return, there is nothing to do but spend time together. What about dinner... I won't get home until 5:40PM... Any suggestions? I was thinking crock-pot, and frozen meals....the only problem with frozen meals is they will have to be in the fridge all day & they still take up to 1hr to cook, sometimes. Yikes.... I suppose I will figure it out! I am a little concerned with Z, how will she do with this change?

This decision was mutual for my hubby & I, and I am so stressed out about it. He is so much more like - no big deal, we will figure it out, and on to another conversation, and I am more like - oh my gosh, what about the dogs, Z, and what about the house chores, and what about dinner and the drive home, no computer!....   Get a Grip Eva! It is not the end of the world. Life changes happen to us all & I am trying to embrace this one! Thanks for listening

A tiny bite of Autumn...

2009-11-05T15:20:00.002-07:00
I stumbled upon this recipe at Joy The Baker. Let me tell you how delicious they are... I don't even think I can tell you without drooling.. The hint of pumpkin with the chocolate chips, it's the perfect combination & then add a tiny bit of powdered sugar on top..Urgh...I will never lose weight! My 2 year old could not stop eating them or saying " These a nummy mommy, nummy". I had a MOPS meeting today and decided to take them... they flew off the plate. Go, buy the ingredients, come home & make them, NOW!!!! They are so moist! I made the batter the night before & then baked them in the morning! Easy!

So, head over to Joy The Baker and copy down the recipe and gobble them up. How great would it be to have one of these on everyone's plate on Thanksgiving.. Yummy!

A Photo for the Wall

2009-11-05T14:49:00.001-07:00
I recently won an 18 x 24 poster from Uprinting.. through A Familiar Path. I have finally recieved my poster in the mail. It is FABULOUS! The picture is very clear & looks exactly how I submitted it!

So, what do you think? Good choice? Bad Choice? I really wanted a picture of the land that my dad has built a cabin on...but idid not have a good enough quality picture..so this is what i decided on..after days & days of changing my mind!

Thanks again Melissa!

Silks, Silks, & more Silks....a giveaway

2009-11-03T09:07:00.000-07:00
Recently GardenMama interviewed Hip Mountain Mama about her business & being a stay at home mom. What a great interview...check it out. If you happen to come upon it...they are having a wonderful giveaway!!!!

Both blogs are full of great information & creative ideas. Good luck! To enter the giveaway please go to the following page.....   Hip Mountain Mama: *Three* Part Giveaway!!

"Why the snow go, Mama?"

2009-11-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

The question of the day..."Why the snow go, mama?"

`

What the day brings...

2009-11-02T10:19:00.013-07:00

Well, it is Halloween again...what will Z wear??? Sometimes I am o together & have everything all figured out, and then there are times, like this year, when it's 4:00 and I am thinking of what I can pull together for a costume! With my thinking cap on and creative juices flowing...I stumble upon an idea that makes me proud! So... what can you make out of diaper boxes, silver cord, & scrapbooking paper, you ask???

My Sweet Little RUBIX CUBE!!! This was one of the quickest & easiest costumes I ever made! Just a staple here & a staple there...and you have it!

It was a wonderful night with just a tiny nip in the air. Z had a pretty good time! She was a little scared of some houses that were decorated & some costumes, but for the most part very willing to participate!

Hope you had a Gobblin Good Time!!

Helpful Information

2009-10-29T20:19:00.004-06:00
So, just today I found myself confused at why some of my pictures were coming up blurry & fuzzy. When I checked my file on my computer they were as crisp as can be, and when I clicked on them in my blog, they were also crisp & clear..hmmmm?

After a few hours of research, I finally understand and now know how to fix it!!

So, if you have a picture that comes over looking like this one...

I have a way to fix it!

Once your picture is uploaded to your post...go the the "Edit HTML" tab and click it;
when this comes up, don't be alarmed, look for the /s200/ part of the format. Each picture will have one.

See the /s200/, change it to width="200", so it will look like this now ( /width="200"/ )Now this number could be anything from s200 - s1600, whatever the number is, keep that number, just change the format! Make sense?

So, when you change the format, your picture will look like this...

Do you see the difference in the picture? It is not as blurry!

Priceless...

2009-10-29T17:09:00.016-06:00

Snow... Free
Snowsuit......Free
Skittles.......$2.50
Carrot.......Free
Scarf & hat....5.00

Making a snowman with your children.....PRICELESS

              When it snows....make a snowman!

*** Does anyone know why my pictures came over so blurry..on my computer they are clear as a bell??? Any input would be helpful!

Snow Day

2009-10-28T14:45:00.005-06:00

A glimpse of what you see looking out my window today....

And what do you see looking in my window...

a cup of hot cocoa

& whipped cream on her nose

Hope you are staying warm and cozy in your home!!!!!

2009-10-26T15:01:00.010-06:00
As I look out toward the Rocky Mountains, I am reminded of how wonderful God is! There are so many things we take for granted. One of those things is the scenery. I am an Autumn lover in every way. I love the crunch of the leave beneath my feet, the sound of the wind rustling the leaves on the ground, the smell of crisp, clean air, and the deep, rich, colors!

Now, don't get me wrong, Colorado is majestic with the mountains, but there is something about being in the Midwest on a warm, sunny, Autumn day!

My family (my side) is from Illinois and we have some land that has been in the family for many years. After my grandfather passed away, my dad & uncle inherited the land. Part of this is a large wooded area...known as "the timber". My dad built a sweet, little cabin down there so we could enjoy this wonderful place.

This past weekend my family spend the day down at the cabin enjoying a warm Autumn day! They sent me a glimpse of what they was with their eyes... I would like to share it with you!

So, close your eyes & smell the crisp, fall air. Now, open your eyes to see the creation of our Father in Heaven!

Now...can you imagine how beautiful it is during the winter???

A New Name...

2009-10-13T14:19:00.003-06:00
I have changed my Ravelry name to match my blog. Now you can find me at agirlwhoknits there.

Happy Day!!!

A Praying Life..

2009-10-12T11:38:00.003-06:00
I recently got a book to help me get back into prayer. It is hard to really commit yourself to praying daily, for specific things and for the things that truly matter. Growing up my parents were always big prayers. I can remember them getting together with a group from church and just praying... I am excited to take a journey to connect me more with God and start praying... If you would like to take this journey with me, the book I am reading is " A Praying Life" by Paul E. Miller.

Strawberry Jam Smile

2009-10-07T21:35:00.002-06:00

My sweet baby girl is sick. She has had a fever since Monday night...sigh. However, despite the way she may feel, she can give me a smile. I know how awful she must feel because she is usually bouncing off the walls, but when she is sick, she just lays still. I just happened to have my camera out & she was laying with the dogs and just as happy as could be and she gave me this.......Strawberry jam smile. Hoping for a quick recovery from this little bug she has....be back soon!

Seven Prayers A Day

2009-10-07T12:25:00.006-06:00
Angie over at Bring the Rain has a beautiful idea...prayer for our children. Not just simple prayers, but specific prayers at certain times of the day. It is described as Seven Prayers A Day. Take a moment and read all about it. It has been a huge impact on my daily life & I feel like Z is learning to appreciate the time we spend together with God!

I have written them down on index cards & on the other side written out the passage referenced. This way I have a prayer & a bible verse at the same time.

It's a Mystery

2009-10-05T16:55:00.003-06:00

Through The Loops has posted her fist clue to the 2009 Socktoberfest Mystery Sock Knitalong. So, grab some needles and yarn and start knitting.......

The sweet, sweet sounds...

2009-09-30T13:03:00.003-06:00
I am sitting in the office fooling around on the computer and help but overhear Z singing to Psalty's Songs for Lil' Praisers:Follow the Leader Jesus! .. They are singing and dancing & Z can't help herself..she loves it. I brightens my day to hear her singing about Jesus and how wonderful he is.

Just one song that makes me smile...( I only remember some verses, I know there are so many more.) I hope this will brighten your day and have an uplifting song in your head all day long!!!!!

He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the little bity baby in His hands,
He's got the little bity baby in His hands,
He's got the little bity baby in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the sun and the rain in His hands,
He's got the moon and the stars in His hands,
He's got the wind and the clouds in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the rivers and the mountains in His hands,
He's got the oceans and the seas in His hands,
He's got you and he's got me in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got everybody here in His hands,
He's got everybody there in His hands,
He's got everybody everywhere in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

I am ready

2009-09-27T22:45:00.003-06:00
The time has come for me and the pavement to reconnect. I have decided I need to lose some weight...finally! My shoes are by the front door waiting. I have to make some changes in my life. This is a huge one! So.. my sister in law & I are training for a half marathon! I ran one about 5 years ago, & it was awesome. We decided to run the Phoenix Rock & Roll Half Marathon in January. I am excited and anxious to get back to who I am. I love my new running shoes. They remind me of the ocean....ahh! I hope to make leaps and bounds in my new kicks!!!!! And, I'm off.

Small Things...

2009-09-27T16:02:00.007-06:00
I was thinking of all the wonderful things in my life, and have decided to try and write 10 things a week that make me happy. I imagine they will be anything from my sometimes obnoxious husband to the clean water we drink... I know that I have so much to be thankful for, I just overlook it sometimes. Hopefully this will keep me grounded. I would love it if you would join me in this journey of thinking.... Sit and jot down a few things, I would love to see what I am overlooking. I will probably try and keep this list going for as long as I can be determined to doing it! So..without further ado....

10. Catching up with an old friend
9.The warm sun shining down on my face
8.The smell of chili on the stove
7 .A full tank of gas
6.Taking a warm, uninterrupted, shower
5.Having a nice conversation with my 95year old grandmother
4.Knowing I am loved by God
3.Getting some snuggle time with Z
2.Watching Z & her cousins play
1.Waking up to the "man of my dreams" every morning

See ya next week for some more...feel free to leave a comment on some of your small things!!

A Glimpse of what I see everyday....

2009-09-25T14:53:00.010-06:00

My Z

Hope this face will brighten your day :0)

You've Been.... Canned & Frozen in Time!

2009-09-25T14:39:00.005-06:00
Last night my hubby and I were up until 2 am!!!! I did not realize that canning bread & butter pickles would take sooooo long. We ended up making salsa, bread & butter pickles, and starting sauerkraut. We feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to have all the wonderful food for fall & winter..

From our harvest at the farm last weekend, and friends giving us tomatoes and peppers they were not using..we ended up with....

24 pints of salsa, about 6 still to be made( everything homegrown out of many different gardens)
16 pints of bread & butter pickles( everything homegrown)
12 pints of sauerkraut( approx., this takes 5-6 weeks to ferment..., update then)
4 cups of pumpkin puree
16 cups of shredded zucchini
5 quart size freezer bags of green beans
14 quart size freezer bags of corn
5 quart size freezer bags of carrots
2 1/2 quarts size bags of green peppers
1 gallon size freezer bag of broccoli
roughly 15 cups of summer squash, eating it instead of freezing

I think we should be good for awhile.... I am Bushed!!!!

In the Knit of Time...

2009-09-21T11:05:00.012-06:00
It has been awhile since I last posted anything in the knitting scene. I have been working on several things and had some wonderful purchases. I am starting to think Christmas gifts....hmmm. What will they be this year? So with my pleasure, I share with you the creations and ideas I have in mind. Sit an knit awhile, won't you!!!

Queensland Collection cotton...sweater?

Trixie's Loopy Mohair...scarf?

Maize Corn Sock Yarn....knee highs for Z

Berroco Comfort Yarn...who knows??

Texiles A Manos....vest or sweater

Berroco Naturlin...Christmas present

Cascade Tencel &Cotton...February Lady Sweater

Plain and Fancy Sheep Wool...sweater

Local Superwash Sock Yarn...socks!!!

Ella Rae & Karabella Magic...Christmas

Lanaloft wool....Felted coin purse

Lamb's Pride Superwash...socks, socks, socks

Cotton Ease....washcloth

Cascade Fixation....tutu for Z

Austermann silk/bamboo...Diminishing Rib Cardigan

Brooks Farm wool..hand dyed...simple yet effective shawl

Harvest Days

2009-09-21T10:36:00.010-06:00
Harvest Time in Colorado. We headed down to a local farm to pick our own vegetables. At the end of the season they take you around there huge farm and pick your own food. It is a long day and hard work, but it is priceless. For $15 a head, you get TONS of vegetables...& I mean tons. I now just have to prepare it all for canning, and freezing, and eating, YUMMY!!!! We had a great time. Z did so well, no melt downs. It was the most beautiful day...big wide open blue sky and warm, maybe a little too warm.

As you can see lots of fun. Z's granddad & pop came along for the harvest. It was so great to share in this special day!

Look at all the produce!!! They had a petting zoo, playground, bicycle cart races, tractor rides, and a corn maze. I am amazed at the wonderful time we had.

Z had a blast. She helped harvest all the food. What a great time for her to learn where the food we eat comes from. She took so much pride in helping.....

I thank God for the wonderful harvest and the abundance of food to feed my family in the coming winter and spring months.

God's Blessing of food is marvelous.

Ahhh Chooo!

2009-09-06T21:20:00.001-06:00
Well, I had the best intentions of posting some wonderful knitting projects and other odds and ends...but the cold has got me down. I can't stand the feeling of being sick. This is miserable. My head is stuffy and feels gigantic, my throat is so sore and I feel like I need to cough, yet I don't! No fun. I am heading to bed after a long HOT shower to, hopefully, help clear my head.

I do have lots of new beautiful yarn to share with you, and some great projects that I have started. I will hopefully be able to get something posted soon.

Look what I've grown

2009-08-23T21:25:00.003-06:00

First off, I want to thank all of you out there that have patiently been checking for updates on my blog...that means so much. I have been reading all of yours weekly, and I love every minute of it. I thought my first blog would be of a very emotional journey I have been on, Weaning! My beautiful daughter is 27 months old and is so full of energy and spunk. She can brighten up the dullest of rooms or people, not that I know anyone dull!!! She is growing and learning. just the other day she repeated me by saying"My Bibo"...do you know what she said?? In case you didn't figure it out, it was :My Bible". I was so thrilled. Being that both mean so much to me I instantly started crying. These days my emotions are all over the place. Now, I understand that we women are an emotional being, & I thank God for that. However, when you are put in a place to make a serious decision about the lifestyle you have created, it makes it even harder. I have nursed my daughter from the second I met her. Now, by that I mean I loved, cared, nurtured, and yes fed her. Now there was never any doubt in my mind that I would not breastfeed my children. The gift of being able to grow a person in my womb and then continue to nourish them when they are born is Amazing! Breastfeeding came natural for both Z and I. I longed for those special moments together when we both needed it. How it would calm me down and remember to pause at the beautiful things around me. The connection that a mother that is breastfeeding a baby is so strong, and I would not trade it for anything. With that being said, things begin to take a different momentum. Once Z began getting more independent, her feedings decrease. However, we still had many times in the night where we would meet and spend that special time together. This never ended. I was so happy that she was eating food and able to go longer between nursing. But soon it became less, and less. Now, she never stopped & I was so relieved. I enjoyed this bond so much, it would break my heart for her to stop. Jumping ahead to this past February. Things began to become, well I hate to say it, annoying. She was not sleeping through the night still. Wanting to nurse all the time, whenever she wanted. I did nurse her on demand, unfortunately it became very tiresome. With her up several times a night & us being sleep deprived, the question my husband began saying was" Don't you think it is time to wean her?". Hmm, how dare he say that! How insensitive! What does he know. Of course it's not time to wean. I was so angry he would even propose this. So things went on the way they were until.... Ouch! I had to have an emergency appendectomy on July 2. In the hospital all I could think about was getting relief. After my surgery, and very medicated I began to think of Z. Wait I need to nurse her and I am in the hospital on narcotics...Yikes After speaking to my sister and deciding with the advice of a Lactation Consultant, I can nurse her at certain times during the day, even on the drugs. Solved! Right? Wrong! My husband encouraged me that this was a golden opportunity to wean her. My sister was visiting, so she would be distracted. I was hurting and really couldn't nurse her. What to do.... After a long night of crying and debating, I decided this was God giving me a shove. I don't think I would have weaned her anytime soon. Now, not because "she needs it", but because, I need it! I was more attached than her at this point. Wow, that is really the first time I have said that without breaking into tears! She was ready, and I wasn't. How will it work? Will she freak out and cry? Will I be so sore that I have to nurse her to relieve the pain? Will she think I don't love her anymore?

Well, it worked just fine. Actually it went better than expected. She never freaked out. To be honest, she only asked to nurse like twice in 2 days. I was never once sore. The Thought of me not loving her never crossed her mind, of course I love her. In fact it was so easy for her, it made it harder for me. For weeks I was just a downright basket case. I would cry every time I laid down with her to put her to sleep. I was overwhelmed with emotions I never thought I had! This was tearing me apart. How could I do this to her " myself?" She "I" will never survive. All I know is this was so tough. God was really testing me!

Well, it's been almost two months of breastfeeding free! We are doing just fine!

I will always remember when she nestled up against my breast and nursed for the first time...tears! When she needed comforted and nursing is what pacified it! When she would look up at me and smile with milk dripping from her mouth, whew! Okay, I am totally crying now. With these memories and the hundreds more, I can embrace the changes that we go through.

Thanks for letting me share this personal journey with you, whoever you are!

I'll be right back....

2009-08-07T22:25:00.002-06:00
Oh my how time flies!! I have been so busy now that I am feeling better. I think I should quite a bit of stuff to chat about when things settle down. Maybe in a couple weeks....knitting, yarn, surgery, losing my job, weaning my precious baby...well toddler, weddings, family in town...you name it, it happened! So hang tight, I will return!

Time to Heal

2009-07-10T09:40:00.000-06:00
Well, after about a week I am able to sit up an type for a few minutes. I ended up in the ER 1 week ago with horrible pain...ended up that I needed my appendix removed:0( SO...I have been laying in bed trying to heal. Thankfully my sister was out here visiting at the time and was able to stay a little longer to help. My mom is here now and will stay for another week.

Hopefully in about a week or so I will be back to normal. Thanks for everyone out there who has been praying for a quick recovery.

Stay tuned.....

A Year in Review..

2009-06-24T22:05:00.003-06:00

I downloaded the coolest program called Picasa 3. It is so cool all the things you can do to your photos. This Collage is of my baby girl. From her 1st birthday to just past her 2nd! What joy it brings me to see all the phases she has been through. I just love this feature!!!

Potty Time

2009-06-24T15:06:00.005-06:00

So, Z has been so interested in getting on the toilet. A friend gave us a small toilet that sits on the floor & then we have a Dora one that goes on the toilet. Things have been pretty exciting! Multiple attempts in a day to go to the bathroom like a big girl! We have had a few successes and a few misses!! But to see the joy in her eyes as she sits pretty on the potty trying to go, just melts my heart.

She is getting so big! I knew this day would come, but I hoped it would be slower:0( Anyway, things are definitely moving along.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-24T14:58:00.004-06:00

One of the most precious gifts
From Heaven above
Is the gift of a daughter
For a Daddy to love.

-Dana Roberts Clark

Watermark???

2009-06-08T22:44:00.004-06:00

Well did this work? It looks like it did. Thanks to Serena over at The Hermit of the Southern March. You really need to check out this story... amazing how things can travel! Anyway, Thanks a bunch for helping us all protect our photos!

Oh, this is Z with Granddad up at the cabin. She is just having a great time!!!!!!

This could take some time....

2009-06-01T14:47:00.014-06:00
I first off want to thank anyone who reads my blog for my lack of posting. I am truly sorry. Things have been out of control. Just a warning...there will be quite a bit of catch up. Along with the catch up there will be pictures.... So, let's begin!

In my world right now there is knitting, gardening, sewing (or lack there of) a dress, and lots of reading. Oh, but where does one start to fill in the blanks....

Knitting has been a great passion for me. I learned 9 years ago. I haven't been able to shake this obsession. And, I don't want to. Sometimes I think I get to place in my knitting that I just need closure with certain projects. It's not that I don't love them anymore, but I need to just be done with them. In the last few months I have been steadily working on several things & I have finished almost all of them. I imagine the simplest way is for me to just label each project for you. So, here goes!

I began working on this vest for Z a few months back. I was making it for her 2nd birthday. While I thought I would never get through the 24 inches of knitting in stockinette stitch , I did, and I finished by her birthday!! I am so pleased how it turned out. It was even and everything lined up correctly!! HipHip Hooray!! Z love it. She knew it was for her & would look at it and be so interested in what I was doing. Once I finished it, she wanted to wear it all the time. And I mean all the time. She would wear it to church, to play in, sometimes to bed...and on and on. What could be better! Look at the grumpy face...

On to the next project that had been lurking around. A beautiful rectangle shawl. I had this Brooks Farm Harmony Yarn to use for something. I only had one skein, 500 yards. Hmm, what to make? A Scarf? A Hat? A Cowl? What to make? After searching books, and websites galore, I found it!! Carol's Clever Little Shawl. It has the sweetest border & these clever ties to hold the shawl in place. So I cast on & finished it rather quickly. Uh Oh, I hate it. By having these ties on each end makes me look even larger than I already am. So...I frogged it and started over. I loved the border so I just did the border on one side like the pattern shows. It turned out great. It is not really that long..but it will work. Now I just need to find a shawl pin!!

Some time ago I purchased yarn to make the Leisl. I fell in love with this pattern and could not wait to cast on!! I purchased some beautiful raw silk tweed. It had all these flecks of gold, brown, green & green I loved it. And was it soft! So, naturally I cast on. How lovely this is going to be. Suddenly, I realize after about 6 inches that there is no way this is fitting around by chest. I tugged and pulled and tried to force it over myself. Not working...Now What! I was so frustrated. I was on vacation anxious to get this going and had nothing else to knit, well except a pair of socks and a shawl that I will probably never finish. Arghhhhh. I guess I will have to buy some yarn to use. So, after a very long day at the yarn store, I found it! One of the softest yarns I have ever felt!!! Blue Sky Alpaca Organic Dyed Cotton. This was perfect. I quickly purchased enough yarn to make the Leisl and headed for home to cast on! Or so I thought...

This yarn was knitting up wonderfully, but I kept feeling like it to was never going to fit around me.... As I kept on knitting, my mind kept saying "who are you fooling, this is not going to fit you...stop knitting now!!", but I just kept on knitting. Finally, a good stopping point to test it out. ARghhhhhh it too was not going around me. It could not be the size, because I am doing the exact size that I am. So, after much resistance..I ripped it out. I need to do some research here on this pattern. Has anyone else run into this problem.

No, everyone else seems to have had no problem. What is wrong with me. Now I am getting frustrated. I have purchased to different types of yarn and no sweater even on the needles. Will I ever get this knit...yes. I am going to just knit it and see what happens. I love it & I will make it work.

So, in the meantime what will I knit you ask? Socks. Good old standby socks. So I cast on and knit socks on my vacation...at least I have them with me!! They are wonderful I love the colors.

Wow, that is quite a bit of stuff. Now on to more exciting things. Just a couple little things I have been up to.

I purchased a new pizza stone. It has come in so handy. We make pizza quite a bit & it just is the best way to bake one!! Yumm.

While I am not the best at it, I do like to sew. I found some really colorful and vibrant seersucker fabric to make a dress for Z. I also found some awesome fold over elastic in great bright colors. So hopefully this dress will be finished soon. Don't ya just love the colors in everything!!!!

I think I need a drink from all this chatting...gulp, gulp, gulp. AHH, much better!

Books, Books, and more Books. I enjoy reading. Last night I finished The Yarn Harlot. Oh how Stephanie can make me laugh... A few other books I have been reading or am about to read.... Well, I will let the picture tell you!

Almost caught up...

The last thing I want to share is my garden! My husband spent several days building garden boxes for me. They are great. So, Sat. we loaded them up with peagravel, dirt, and compost. Then I planted!!! What an amazing thing to plant a garden and then watch it grow!! We planted tomatoes, peas, carrots, onions, radishes, peppers(hot & mild), lots of herbs, squach, zuchinni, califlower, broccoli, watermelon, lettuce, cabbage, brussel sprouts, and spinach. Yum!
Now we water & wait!!!!
Well, that was alot of information in one sitting. Hope I haven't bored you. I so much more to discuss, but that will just have to wait...Blessings to you!

Sweet Giveaway...

2009-05-30T21:59:00.001-06:00
So..Camille over at Simplify is offering a great giveaway. She has posted many Moda Designers and they have some great new things. Go and check out her blog and all the great things...and enter to win. It is great to see different designers with many unique projects. Have a great day!

Recipe Box Swap

2009-05-25T21:16:00.002-06:00
I can't believe I forgot to do this!! I have been so busy, time just slipped by me. I do have a great BBQ appetizer recipe for ya. Everyone loves them, they are fairly cheap & easy. Give them a try for your next cookout!!!

Grilled Stuffed Jalapenos

This recipe calls for however much you want to make. I will give you the recipe for about 50 goodies. You can add or subtract to meet your needs!!

50 Fresh Jalapenos, rinsed
16 ounces cream cheese, room temp.
2 packages bacon, cut in half
10 - 15 bamboo skewers

Pre-heat oven 350 degrees & grill to med-high. Soak skewers for 20 minutes. Remove tops of jalapenos and core them. Remove all or some of the seeds depending on how HOT you want them to be!!! I find that a metal vegetable peeler works well to remove the inside. Using you finger begin stuffing the jalapenos. I place a small amount in first and work it all the way down and then fill until it is flat on the top. After all jalapenos are stuffed wrap two haves around the peppers. Once all peppers are wrapped skewer them. depending on the size of them 4-5 per skewer.

Place in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping once. After they are done baking, place on the grill and continue grilling until bacon begins to get a little charred, about 10-15 minutes. Note***the cream cheese will begin to come out, this is OK!!! You can grill them on the top shelf or on the bottom.

Let cool for a few minutes & then eat them up!!!!!!!! Some will be HOT! Enjoy!!

I am still here....

2009-05-25T21:13:00.002-06:00
Things have been so busy in the non internet world lately, I barely have time to brush my teeth. Just joking:0) But I really have been busy. I will hopefully have an update on the last couple months...lots going on. Please check back in with me in a few weeks!!

What would you write???

2009-04-27T12:41:00.003-06:00
This is an amazing giveaway that Chickadee at A Familiar Path is giving away!! 25o Greeting Cards from UPrinting!!!! How wonderful would this be. Go and read her blog. It is so sweet and very inspirational.

Wonderful Fabric Giveaway!!

2009-04-22T23:36:00.003-06:00
SO, Tara over at Tinkerfrog is having a great giveaway. The Amy Butler fabrics are delicious!!! Go and check it out for yourself.

2009-04-02T16:53:00.004-06:00

Pasta. Yummy!! We seem to eat pasta a couple times a week. It is easy, inexpensive, and usually never fails. My husband, the picky eater he is, will request Spaghetti Pie very often. This recipe is a simple meal. most of the items we have on hand, so we only have to buy bread if we want it. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do.

Spaghetti Pie

Ingredients:
1 lb. of ground Italian sausage( either pork or turkey)
12 oz. sour cream
6 oz. cream cheese, room temp
1 small container ricotta cheese( use only about 1/2)
1 lb. spaghetti, cooked
2 jars of traditional Prego
2 1/2 cups shredded mozzerella
red pepper flakes( optional)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Boil noodles until they are al dente.Once noodles are finished, drain and drizzle olive oil, leting them cool down. In a large saucepan brown sausage until pink is gone. Add spaghetti sauce & red pepper flakes, simmer.In a medium bowl combine sour cream, ricotta, 1 3/4 cups cheese, & red pepper flakes(if using) until smooth. In a 9x13 pan spread about 1/4 cup of sauce on bottom. Add 1/2 of the cooked pasta. Dollop the cream cheese on the pasta & smooth out as best you can.**it will be stuck in one place, that is ok. Spoon a layer of the ricotta mixture & top with 1/4 cup mozzerella cheese. Spread the sauce over generously. Repeat the layering once more & top it all off with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil & bake for 35-40 minutes. Make sure that the foil is not touching the top of pasta!! Uncover and bake for 10 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes. Gobble it up and chase it down with a tall glass fo cold milk!! Yummy!

Learning..

2009-03-31T21:44:00.004-06:00
It amazes me at how quickly our children learn from us. Z is a 22 month old sponge. She sees and hears everything we do. Then she does it..her vocabulary is still not quite there. She loves to help make dinner, clean up after dinner, wash dishes, set the table, feed her babies, bring in the milk, fold laundry, feed the dogs, comb my hair...ouch:0), take phone calls, put her babies & mommy to sleep, just to name a few. I blows me away how much they are learning. I have been having such a tough time thinking I am not teaching her enough. clearly I am.

Lately she has been so into playing "mommy". You will notice her loving her baby & nursing her just like mommy. How precious that she understands how to nurture a baby. This to me makes me realize how God is with us...so gentle and always teaching us. Now, we just have to listen!!!! All the wonderful things to learn as children and then again as adults.

Z reminds me everyday that I am still a child in God's eyes & he wants to teach me. I know if I fix my eyes on him I will learn to walk in his footsteps & be able to guide my children down his path as well. Amazing, the simple everyday things that go on around us always bring us back to our center, GOD!

Curl up and watch it snow...

2009-03-26T15:34:00.011-06:00

Oh, the weather outside is frightful,
But the fire is so delightful,
So since we've no place to go,
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

What a beautiful day. The snow is falling down so forcefully. We have been in need of this snowstorm for quite some time. Thank God!!!

It was blowing so hard it made huge drifts in my front yard & my back yard. My dog is pretty tall and it comes up to her belly in some spots in the yard. I hope this lasts for several days!!!!

With all this weather, it made me really want to finish my simple yet effective shawl. The colors are so pretty. I used some very inexpensive acrylic yarn my wonderful husband purchased for me!!! Bless his heart. He sure does try. Anyway, it turned out great. Just the perfect size to wrap up in!!!

Silly girls and cute clothes

2009-03-20T23:50:00.016-06:00
HAHA..Oh how they can make you laugh and cry in the same moment. She is getting so big. What a sense of humor she has. Always being silly. I can't get enough of it. Such energy. Just look at the fun time she is having!

I started making her this adorable vest from Debbie Bliss... I can't wait to see her in this. The baby cashmerino is so soft. This is going to be so sweet on her.

Hello again....

2009-03-20T23:34:00.011-06:00
My blogging break has come to an end. It seems like so much work to find time to sit down and journal. But...not anymore. I have been busy knitting, cleaning, sewing, and entertaining. My mother so generously came to visit for 2 1/2 weeks. What a Huge blessing. How wonderful for her and Z to spend time together. In these busy times I did find time to knit!!!!

These cute cozy socks for my darling girl!! Love the purple. Reminds me of grape bubble bum! Yummy!This is some pretty green yarn my hubby gave me for Christmas several years ago...I decided to make the Simple Yet Effective Shawl with it. I am about 2/3 done & for being an acrylic yarn it is pretty cute!

I finally made Myself a cowl. I used Patons Silk/Bamboo yarn I love the soft feel and the shiny sheen to it. This is the Good Luck Cowl & it is only one skein!! It could be a little wider and longer..so maybe more yarn next time. but, other than that I love it!

The Recipe Box Swap

2009-03-02T21:40:00.005-07:00

The Recipe Box Swap

These scones are sure to warm you on the inside. SO simple to make! I make a little whipping creme to put on top. Yummy.

Date Maple Drop Scones
2 cups flour, unbleached
1 tbsp. baking powder
1/3 cup unsalted butter
1 beaten egg
1/3 cup maple syrup or maple flavored syrup
1/3 cup half & half
1/2 cup snipped pitted dates

In a mixing bowl combine flour & baking powder. Cut butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbles.
In a small bowl combine the egg, maple syrup, and half & half. Stir in dates, then add the wet mixture all at once to the dry mixture and stir until the ingredients cling together.
Drop the batter onto grease baking sheet. Bake 400 degrees - 12-15 minutes.
Makes approx 16 scones.
Enjoy!

Hip Hip Hooray!!!

2009-02-15T13:31:00.003-07:00
I am so thrilled to have won the neat felted bag from Stephanie at jonquilsladybugs.blogspot.com. I will be anxiously waiting for my package!!! Thanks again for the great giveaway!!

Wonderful Giveaway

2009-02-10T22:36:00.002-07:00
While browsing some blogs I ran across this blog...http://jonquilsladybugs.blogspot.com/ and she made the coolest felted bag!!!!! Very neat things on her blog. The valentine hearts are adorable!! I must make a pair. She also just made the cutest soft shoes...how creative people are! Check it out! Fun stuff.

Recipe Box Swap

2009-02-02T21:28:00.008-07:00
Recipe Box Swap

This recipe is just what I make when I need to brighten my day. I hope you enjoy this as much as my family does. This is such an easy dessert to make. Enjoy!
Lemonade Cake

2 columns of Ritz Crackers(crushed & they need to be Ritz)
6 oz Lemonade concentrate
1 can of condensed sweetened milk
12 oz Cool Whip(go on, use the full fat)
3/4 cup butter or margarine

Set aside 1/4 cup of the crackers for garnish. Melt butter & stir in crackers. Pour into a 9x13 pan and bake at 350 degrees for 5 minutes. Set pan aside to cool. Mix concentrate, Cool Whip,and condensed milk in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Pour over cooled crust & sprinkle with remaining crackers. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours until set.

Yum! Enjoy!

Things that make me smile...

2009-01-28T12:56:00.004-07:00

....a kiss from my hubby

....a child sleeping

....knowing tomorrow is another day

....sipping hot cocoa

....laughing

....dinner on the table

....birds singing

....a good nights sleep

....reading a good book

....knowing that tomorrow is another day

....fresh flowers

....hot chicken noodle soup

Bouncing around

2009-01-17T23:59:00.005-07:00

What energy these kids have. We went to a birthday party and Z jumped in a huge inflatable all night. She had a blast. The funniest thing though is she is so tiny that she just flies up in the air everytime someone bounces...hahaha! Lots of fun.

This was the same night as the birthday party we were going to. Bela loved her legwarmers! What a hit they were & how cute!!

Midnight Fuel...

2009-01-17T23:45:00.001-07:00

It always amazes me how drained I get after a busy day. Spending a long day at friends house enjoying the 58 degree weather was just what the doctor ordered. Today seemed like an early spring day. Blue skies, birds flying, sun shining, & hanging out on the porch was hard to imagine in the middle of January in Colorado, but it happened. Sitting back & watching the kids play while sipping on yummy margaritas was how I would like to spend my weekends. With worn out toddler in tow, we headed for home. With no real nap for the rugrat, you would think sleep would come early...guess not. Z woke at 11:30 needing her mama. The joy it still brings me to be able to nurse her and have that unending love that only a mother can experience, is wonderful. I know my days of nursing are limited as she gets older, but I will cherish and long for them each day that comes. After soothing her back to sleep, I myself feel the need for a midnight snack. Hmm, what shall I have?? Thinking of my childhood and spending many nights with my grandparents, I remember. Bananas & blueberries with milk. Perfect. Oh, so satisfying as the flavors burst in my mouth. Now if only I too could drift off to sleep......

Cold Winter Days

2009-01-15T14:02:00.002-07:00
I started these very cute legwarmers for my friends 5 year old birthday...hopefully she will love them as much as I do. This yarn is making the coolest pattern when it is knitted up. I love the bright rainbow colors. She can wear these with anything. One done, one to go. Birthday party is tomorrow night.

My husband & a couple guys went up into the mountains and cut down 6 cords of firewood. After a long day of chopping and splitting we have a mountain of warmth. Hopefully our days and nights will be cozy inside. There is nothing I enjoy more than a toasty fire and an evening of knitting. Hope your winter is as warm as mine will be.

One more wrap

2009-01-13T10:21:00.001-07:00

I really wanted to make a nice winter wrap. I had some Natures Spun worsted weight yarn that I found in my stash.. so I began. I am using a diagonal seed pattern, very easy. The color I am using is a wineberry color. I think it looks warm & will hopefully have it finished in a week!! Yeah right. Anyway, here is what I have done so far....

Exciting new things

2009-01-13T09:43:00.001-07:00
I decided to try my hand at dyeing some yarn that got a slight stain on it. I used the koolaid/ crockpot method. I turned out much brighter than I wanted...but I will find something to use it for. The process was very easy.
Materials needed:

Yarn, needs to be an animal product

10 packages of koolaid (less if you want it lighter, more for darker/brighter)

3 cups of water

1 cup of vinegar

crock pot large enough to hold yarn & water.

Make sure your yarn is in a hank. To do this wind it around a chair. Tie it loosely in four areas. Make sure it is not to tightYou want to be able to get a couple fingers under it.

Soak yarn in tub or sink of cool water. Do NOT move it around, this can shrink it. Gently press yarn under the water.

Combine water & vinegar, then add koolaid. Stir until completely dissolved. Pour into crock pot & place yarn in crock pot.

Carefully lift the yarn out of the water & squeeze out the water. Place in the crock pot & press into the solution. Add mor vinegar solution to immerse completely if needed. Turn crock pot to low & cover. Leave this for about 30 minutes. After about a half hour, check the yarn to see if it is accepting the dye. Lift the yarn where you tied it. Be careful, it is HOT. Now leave it for about 3 hrs.

You will know when it is finished when all the dye is in the yarn. Then water will be clear again. Turn the crock pot off. & let the yarn rest until it is cool enough to handle.

Fill sink with water the same temp as the yarn and carefully place into sink. Gently push the yarn down several times then drain water and squeeze excess water out. Repeat this process a couple times. The water needs to be clear. Lay the yarn on a towel and roll it until all water is gone. Let the yarn air dry.

Mine smelled like koolaid for a few days..but it did go away.

Have Fun!

Needles working...

2009-01-13T09:34:00.002-07:00

I am working on a beautiful shawl right now. The pattern is Meadow Flowers Shawl from The Knitters Stash book. I am using Brooks Farm Primero yarn. The hand of this yarn is qwonderful. I use there yarn for many things. I had to take this shawl out 3 times...I can't do it anymore because the yarn is getting fuzzy...no more messing up. I can't wait to finish this.

Sweet Christmas Stocking

2009-01-13T09:08:00.006-07:00

I never thought I would get this done in time. For those of you waiting...here is the finished Christmas stocking for Z. I did get it finished by Christmas. It was such a fun thing to knit. I used yarn from Be Sweet http://www.besweetproducts.com/ ( ribbon ball, knobby ball, and mohair ball).

Hmm,

2009-01-11T14:28:00.000-07:00
Trying to figure out how to fit this in my life...