kristyn knits

holiday remembering

2011-12-02T12:00:00.007-05:00

when I turned the monthly calendar page in my planner yesterday, I met december. this quote was in the square before day 1:

think about what you

want to remember

about your holiday

and do it!

so today I'm thinking about the activities and traditions I want to remember.

I've started a short list (of course)...

:: quiet moments at home with mark, spencer and connor

:: advent calendars

:: Christmas trees

:: making lots of sweet treat gifts

:: holiday nights at greenfield village

:: telling the stories of december with words and photos

:: Christmas music playing

:: driving around town looking at Christmas lights

:: Christmas novels

:: completing a few more handmade presents

what are some of the activities you want to remember this year?

happy december!

2011-12-01T12:50:00.004-05:00

I hope you choose joy.

my Thanksgiving lens

2011-11-30T11:59:00.016-05:00

this year celebrating Thanksgiving included traveling to atlanta to be with mark's family. while distance may separate us, the relationships we've built make it feel like no time has passed when we're together again. and getting these four cousins together is pure joy.

these were a few of our highlights:

we all arrived with excitement and anticipation in our hearts.

we ate awesome meals and feasted on lots of sweet treats including our tradition of pilgrim pies.
uncle mark did another outstanding job creating a personalized ornament for each one.
michelle and sally served both ham and turkey.
the four cousins played until they dropped.
temperatures were in the mid 60's, but the fireplace was always burning.
the trampoline was a huge hit.
and the four of them were good sports about letting me take photo after photo trying to get the "perfect" shot.
some of us celebrated a michigan win and then later that night a south carolina win.
we started what would be a fourteen hour drive home with this bright spot.
being with family is always the best place to be.

soup's on

2011-11-19T22:00:00.003-05:00

I'm a bit late to the party, but wanted to share my "go-to" soup recipe for Jodi's Soup Bowl. during the winter months, I make this at least once a week! I hope you try and enjoy it as much as we do!!

Ham & Cheese Chowder

3 cups water

4-6 medium potatoes, diced

1 cup chopped celery

1/4 cup diced onion

2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/2 cup butter or margarine

1/2 cup flour

1 quart milk

4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, cubed

2 cups cooked, cubed ham

Add potatoes, celery, onion, salt and pepper to boiling water. Cover and simmer 10 minutes or until potatoes tender. In a separate large saucepan, heat milk and melt butter in warm milk. When butter has melted, gradually whisk in flour. Stir constantly while cooking. Add cheese and stir until melted. Combine cheese mixture to veggie mixture. Add diced ham. Heat thoroughly. Serve with your favorite bread!

a little bran

2011-11-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

in my kitchen, meal time is the challenge, and baking is the joy! I love making homemade treats and anxiously await the holiday baking season when I can keep the oven humming.

for the past eight weeks or so, I've been making Claudia's Raisin Bran Muffins, and I l o v e them!! (Claudia does an excellent job describing and giving the recipe, so I'll let her do that.) my only modification is that I make twelve standard size muffins using my #20 stainless steel scoop. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! many thanks Claudia!

ten things

2011-11-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

I'm thinking about...

:: starting a new cross stitch project.

:: asking for a point and shoot camera for Christmas.

:: making a trip to Arizona to see my friend Heather's life.

:: the joys and sorrows of friendship.

:: going back to school.

:: the priorities of faith, family, health, and simplicity, and how to continue cultivating a good life around them.

:: the ADVENTure projects I want to complete before December first.

:: remaining present and thankful during a busy season.

:: how to effectively deal with a strong-willed child.

:: making soup, so I can link up with Jodi's Soup Bowl.

what are you thinking about as we start a new week?

words for wednesday

2011-11-02T05:30:00.000-04:00

we cannot experience LOVE

if we are not known,

and we cannot be known,

if we are not HONEST.

-unknown

all ones day

2011-11-01T13:54:00.007-04:00

Halloween is one of the days I truly appreciate having two boys who love sports. while I adored the little red riding hood, ladybug, and cowgirl costumes I saw yesterday, I love having {most of} the supplies necessary for a scary-free costume!

this year connor disguised himself as a Detroit Lions' football player,

and Spencer was a loyal Ohio State fan.
together they were brothers loving their sports teams.

{can I tell you a secret? spencer behind that mask freaks me out!}

and a sign of our family times...one wanted to be photoed with friends before treating and one did not.

costumes or not, I hope your day was full of treats!

and happy 11.1.11!

it's all ones day! I think it's fun when the numbers on the calendar line up.

words for wednesday

2011-10-26T05:00:00.000-04:00

use it up.

wear it out.

make it do.

do without.

-unknown

words for wednesday

2011-10-19T05:55:00.001-04:00

part of cultivating a good life is...

understanding that things don't change

just because you wish they would.

do something.

-Becky Higgins

words for wednesday

2011-10-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Educated women in the home?

What an odd thing to deplore!

What better place to have us “end up”. . .

What more important job is there

than sharing the values we are learning to cherish

with the next generation of adults?

What more strategic place could there be for the educated woman?

- Edith F. Hunter

what's real right now

2011-10-09T16:22:00.021-04:00

what's real right now is that simplicity [freedom from complexity, intricacy, or division into parts] is escaping me. even the smallest of tasks seems to add a layer of difficulty that overwhelms me. when my piles are too much for the dining room table, I move everything to our bed, so piles can be made and dismantled one piece at a time.

what's real right now is mark and I are being challenged by work stress invading every corner of our lives. too much to do, unhappy career paths, travel, and lack of connection describe what we are facing right now. not sure how to help, guilt about spending without contributing much financially, and concern about health are lifted up daily.

what's real right now is connor is loving life in a big way. third grade is treating him well. he's growing taller each day, which is helping him reach his goal to be taller than mom...just like his brother. he finished his first soccer season on saturday; he questions everything (more than once if necessary); and wants to play the Xbox 360 24-7.

what's real right now is spencer is playing an awesome eighth grade season of football. kick off kicker, offense, and defense are keeping him challenged. he's getting more invitations to be with good friends, which makes me miss him when he's away. he's a leader, a loyal friend, and sensitive son.

what's real right now is our fall colors are beginning to shine. my favorite trees are the ones that are split down the middle with green on one side and color on the other. it's as if the tree can't decide whether to stay in summer or venture into fall.

what's real right now is I would love to finish knitting my traveling woman, make a whole pile of cards, and begin a stitch project, but I just can't make the time. I'm missing this creative space and regular contact with all of you. each time I consider taking off the ability to comment (because I'm not sure when I can reciprocate your kindness), I remember the friendships that have been formed and wouldn't want to miss out on the blessing of you!

what's real right now is my 25th High School Class reunion is this coming weekend, and I'm obsessing over an outfit that looks like "me" and if the "me" that they see will be enough?

:: this post inspired by the creativity and originality of ali edwards. ::

words for wednesday

2011-09-14T05:30:00.001-04:00

S i m p l i c i t y

is the key to

SUCCESSFUL LIVING

- unknown

a new routine

2011-09-12T16:55:00.011-04:00

finding a new routine to my days,

includes a dilatory project to keep my mind and hands busy...

traveling woman.

stitch by stitch, row by row, she's now ready for the lace.

I hope you're finding peace and joy in the rhythm of your days.

our hopes

2011-09-07T14:31:00.005-04:00

summer finishing

2011-09-03T21:22:00.023-04:00

as our summer comes to a close, so do my summer ADVENTure projects. tomorrow the boys start school, and I begin a few weeks of adjusting. it happens to me every year. I can remember putting spencer on the bus for the first day of first grade, and the struggles that followed. ever since then, the first few weeks of school are quiet and somewhat lonely for me. so I've compiled quite a list of "to-do" ideas for those moments when the silence gets to be too much.

last week we visited the park for some sunny project photos and a bit of fun. the bit of fun starts it off...

and here's what I'll be adding to my ADVENTure collection:

*a few dishcloth additions using this pattern...

* cabled boot toppers for a boot lover on my list...

Pattern: Cabled Boot Toppers from Gifted by Mags Kandis

Size: One size

Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca Light, Color #4294- Turquoise Mix

Needles: US 6 dpn

I love these boot toppers! the pattern was easy to follow, but intricate enough to hold my attention. and those bobbles at the top....they're really fun to make!

* and Christmas pillowcases (by request) using Lisa's pattern...

tip of the month:

start thinking about December birthdays!

if you're like me, you probably have a few special people in your life who celebrate a birthday in December. and maybe (like me) the holidays end up grabbing all of your attention, and you end up behind in purchasing and delivering thoughtful birthday gifts. one of my goals this year is to have those gifts purchased and wrapped before December rolls around. this month you see a part of my niece's gift- a Happy Birthday pillowcase!

I hope september brings you scented candles, falling leaves, and creative projects that bless others as they bless you!

link up your ADVENTure posts here:

words for wednesday

2011-08-31T06:00:00.001-04:00

first say to yourself

what you would be:

and then

do what you have to do.

- Epictetus

making my way back

2011-08-29T23:24:00.008-04:00

I'm still here. actually, I'm making my way back here.

while baseball kept us tied to home during june and july, as soon as the calendar said august we were celebrating birthdays and going in different directions. we're all home now and in our last week of vacation.

after taking finished project photos, I'll be sharing ADVENTure gifts, end of summer crafts, and summer recap photos. and I look forward to checking in with all of you!

almost Christmas in july!

2011-08-01T22:02:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it's time for a (late) ADVENTure post! it seems like our summer days are passing by so quickly.

check, check in july:

* three additional dish cloths for the collection

* updated gift list with new ideas

* assembled a 2011 holiday album

* knitting still in progress

* Christmas card photo of boys

each year the "December Daily" scrapbook theme always draws me in. but considering that I finished my 2009 December Daily album just a few short months ago, I haven't been very successful at completing them. this year I chose a simpler route.

I had all the supplies on hand and spent a few hours on a saturday bringing the elements together:

1. K&Company red cloth album from Target

2. favorite holiday scrapbook papers and stickers from my stash

I'm trying to simplify all aspects of my life right now... so I kept this album very simple and uncluttered. I used a 4x6 photo as a guide to cut a matting template for each page. the same size photo mat was attached to each page adding additional papers and stickers where I could.

when the holiday photos start flying in, I'll adhere them to the pages, add the story, and call it done. I'm learning that capturing single moments and telling individual stories is more valuable to me (and hopefully to my family) than showcasing multiple pictures of one event.

and this project is still on the needles, new needles I should say. after finishing and frogging one, because I didn't check gauge before starting...I'm back on track and will share soon!

tips of the month:

you may want to visit monika's blog for some awesome Christmas In July ideas! this post was one of my favorites.

if you enjoy sending out photo Christmas cards, think about taking your photo during the summer! a picture of the kids or the entire family at your weekend cottage, vacation destination, beautiful garden, or favorite family summer spot can easily check one additional holiday stress of your list! we already have ours!!

just a note of thanks:

I continue to be so thankful for those of you taking this year-long journey with me and leaving such wonderfully nice comments! I hope you're celebrating your successes and wish you a productive and fun month of august! now don't forget to link up your ADVENTure posts here:

summer is...

2011-07-18T18:03:00.004-04:00

silly moments.

I got a chuckle this morning...

because mark is working so many hours and assistant coaching for two baseball teams, I've taken over the yard work for the summer. after my morning bike ride and walk with little guy, I came home to tackle the yard before the heat would prohibit it.

after two hours of weeding the beds, watering plants, using the weed eater, and mowing, I came in for a break. when I looked in the mirror, I got the giggles!

I had NO idea I had been wearing these reflective safety glasses all morning. I thought they were clear!! silly girl, silly post.

scrapbook on the road

2011-07-02T17:18:00.012-04:00

"finish Germany journal" has been on my "do-list" for weeks, and I've been completely avoiding it. perfection and a perceived lack of time settled in and paralyzed my progress until...

spencer planned a 'guy's Psych marathon" for saturday, which gave mom a few hours of creative time. over the past few weeks, I've been focusing on finishing the projects I have in progress instead of starting new. this project could be avoided no more!

in preparing for our trip to Germany, I knew that I wanted to have a documenting journal with me, but just wasn't sure how to put it all together. so before mark and I left, I purchased Ali Edwards' "Scrapbook on the Road" self paced class to gain inspiration from a scrapbooker whose I style I admire.

ali's approach of making the scrapbook a visual and emotional experience was just what I wanted. my goal was not to create a picture album but more of a visual written journal, so I could step out of my comfort zone and share my observations and experiences with words, not only photos. the photos are comfortable; the words are more of a challenge.

because mark and I were going to create an iphoto book of the trip when we returned, I wasn't concerned that this "scrapbook" be archivaly safe. I simply wanted a journal full of honest, moment by moment experiences with lots of local documentation added in. Ali's class helped me create just what I wanted.

finishing this project turned out to be the least rewarding thing about it. each physical item affixed stirred an emotional memory. it was like being there all over again. I learned so much about myself during our Germany trip. reading back over my unfiltered thoughts reminded me of the little joys, struggles and moments that I might too soon forget. if it were not, that is, for my finished Germany visual journal.

words for wednesday

2011-06-29T05:00:00.000-04:00

be more concerned with your character

than your reputation,

because your character

is what you really are,

while your reputation

is merely what others think you are.

-John Wooden

back on track

2011-06-27T23:56:00.014-04:00

it's been good to get back on track with my ADVENTure this month. here's what I've been working on:

sewing more santas

framing wool

you can buy the pattern here.

a few more dishcloths

adding to the "year of cards" collection

and in progress...something to share next month!

this year mark and I have a good balance between crafted and purchased gifts on our list. and these are one of my favorites that I can't wait to gift. our family uses and loves them! go grab a set!!

tip of the month:

back in march, I encouraged you to think about and plan your holiday sweet treats! it's always a good time to think sweet! don't 'ya think?

one of my goals for the summer was to find beautiful glass items I could use to gift my oreo truffles. I was thinking garage sales, thrift shops, etc. little did I know I would find all I needed at one garage sale and pay $less$ than seven dollars for these ten pieces:

it is so possible to give your delicious treats in beautiful pieces and not spend a fortune! I hope you find a few treasures this summer!

don't forget to link up your own ADVENTure posts!

six more months

2011-06-25T11:41:00.009-04:00

today marks the half way point in ADVENTure 2011! we only have six. more. months. until celebration day! I hope your travels have been light and productive the past few months, and you look forward to completing more handmade gifts before Christmas.

it's an ADVENTure weekend here, so look for me on Monday with a few completed items.

happy ADVENTure my friends!!

my {traveling} weekend lens

2011-05-31T23:12:00.013-04:00

:: relaxing ::

:: awesome desserts ::

:: sharing recipes ::

:: remembering with slides ::

:: park fun ::

:: togetherness ::

:: family ::

:: bocce ::

many thanks to aunt linda and uncle rich
for a weekend full of moments to remember!

skin cancer awareness

2011-05-25T09:31:00.007-04:00

this post, my own mole removals, and my dad's battle with other forms of skin cancer inspire these words.

my mom and dad are doctor people. (I say this in the most loving of ways.)

first, they know a lot of doctors. second, my mom has logged countless volunteer hours on the local hospital's women's board. and third, they use them. growing up, this gave me a sense of comfort. if I needed a doctor, mom and dad would know who to go to.

I can also so remember protesting when my mom would make yet another appointment that would require yet another mole be removed. thankfully (due to my mom's diligence) all of mine have been benign.

then, a few months ago, I found myself standing in her shoes. this time spencer was the patient and I was the mother saying "take it off" to the doctor. I refused the "we can watch it" offer and was thankful for my mama instinct...the mole came back "suspicious."

I trust you'll watch this brief video and take action if necessary! don't wait another day!

words for wednesday, on thursday

2011-05-19T13:05:00.006-04:00

:::

things that matter most

must never be at the mercy of

things that matter least.

- Goethe

:::

a countdown of sorts

2011-05-17T23:50:00.004-04:00

last week I flew solo. after seeing mark off on his flight, I started down the runway of my week.

'tis the season for lists! the grass is growing, which means mowing. dandelions are popping up, which means weed control. the temperatures are warming, which means sandals! and the baseball schedules have been published, which means the end of school will be here before I know it.

I'm now using my weekly lists as a "countdown" of sorts ... a list of projects I want to complete prior to the end of school.

I've also begun an intentional list for summer:

I ~~want to~~ will be present for the boys.

I ~~want to~~ will choose the activity over the chore.

I ~~want to~~ will choose what is "best" over something "good."

words for wednesday

2011-05-11T07:02:00.006-04:00

I've learned that

people will forget what you said,

people will forget what you did,

but people will never forget

how you made them feel.

-Maya Angelou

a year is a long time

2011-05-02T22:51:00.012-04:00

it was grey today,

inside my heart

and outside my windows.

how can

one year

seem like three hundred

and sixty five days

and only one at the same time?

I looked at pictures,

visited her grave,

offered up prayers,

shed my tears,

and honored her memory.

a year is a long time.

go green

2011-04-27T11:54:00.010-04:00

have you seen these yet? the postal service is getting in on the "go green" movement. such cute reminders for us to be mindful of our choices:

buy local produce

reuse bags

fix water leaks

share rides

turn off lights not in use

choose to walk

reduce our environmental footprint usa

compost

let nature do the work

recycle more

ride a bike

plant trees

insulate the home

use public transportation

use efficient light bulbs

adjust the thermostat

maintain tire pressure

our small choices can add up to big results when we all work together!

words for wednesday

2011-04-27T06:00:00.000-04:00

learn to say 'no' to the good,

so you can say 'yes' to the best.

-John C. Maxwell

my weekend lens

2011-04-25T11:08:00.015-04:00

Remembering...

:: to capture our moments ::

:: beauty in blooms ::

:: my favorite spring flowers ::

:: a random (on my shoulder) shot ::

:: enjoying the farm ::

:: the helper ::

:: the assistant ::

:: his barn is SO organized ::

:: capturing george ::

:: a bit of pampering ::

:: family moments ::

:: giving clues ::

:: the hunt ::

:: brotherly love ::

:: easter egg fillers ::

I was inspired by this.

words for wednesday

2011-04-20T07:21:00.001-04:00

if I appear brave,

it is because

I have been well loved.

-Jen Lee

Heidelberg

2011-04-19T12:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday in Heidelberg

today was our first day of exploring together, and it started off a bit tense. I had been traveling solo all week determining my path and recording memories at my leisure. mark had been working and interacting with co-workers all week. I was excited to have a companion. he was excited to be taking photos and being free from the office. maybe you can sense the conflict brewing.

our first sights of Heidelberg where just as I imagined Germany to be- lots of brick buildings, tight streets, and lots of people walking and talking. we walked over the Neckar on the "old bridge" to get a foggy view of the Heidelberg Castle.
then took over 700 steps up this path to reach the "philosopher's walk." the name of this path comes from the practice of Heidelberg's philosophers and university professors walking and talking here.
from the philosopher's walk we made our way through town to reach the incline that would take us up to Heidelberg Castle.

what goes up must come down. during our walk around the city streets we found:

:: the third oldest Hard Rock Cafe ::

:: a knit shop worth browsing through ::

:: flowers in the open market ::

:: and plentiful chocolatiers ::

the view from our dinner spot gave us a great photo of what's happening now, here and around the world.
while the day started off rough, we both made adjustments in our attitudes and expectations to make the day wonderful. Heidelberg left us yearning for more time, as it ended up being one of our favorite stops along the way.

Speyer

2011-04-08T12:36:00.010-04:00

Friday in Speyer

"Today I am better... maybe because I got a nap in before Mark came home last night; maybe because it's Friday, and I'll soon have Mark with me; maybe because I now have a little more confidence, a little more bravery, a little more experience. I am better."

"Mark recommended I journey south to Speyer after his evening there last night. It sounds like a wonderful, small German city. Miriam agreed, so I'm off!"

:: Cathedral of Speyer ::

this is the second Roman Imperial Cathedral on the Rhine that I visited.

the first was in Worms and the third is in Mainz.

while the Cathedral was beautiful, the Jewish heritage of Speyer is what most captivated me. I visited the Medieval Jewish Court, which from 1104 to the beginning of the 16th century was the religious center for the Jewish community.

:: Speyer Synagogue circa 1104::

this is looking into the Synagogue via the Women's Prayer Hall. I was told the horizontal "brick-like" window was made by the women, so they could hear what was being said in the synagogue.

:: Speyer Mikvah, "Ritual Bath" ::

the ritual bath would be used for spiritual cleansing, which was achieved by whole body immersion in natural water. In Hebrew Mikvah means "collection of water." many of these ritual baths were built over hard to reach natural springs, thus collecting the 1,000 liters of water required for the bath.

:: city streets of Speyer ::

Speyer Observations:

~ lots of eating outside

~ outside tables are close together

~ street musicians playing

~ lots and lots of bikes with baskets

~ everyone pays with cash

tomorrow I'll share our trip to Heidelberg...one of my favorite destinations!

Koln

2011-04-07T14:57:00.014-04:00

Wednesday in Ludwigshafen

"I haven't felt 100% for the past few days, so I laid low today in Ludwigshafen. I started late eating breakfast at 9:30 just before the restaurant closed at 10:00. I spent the day visiting the BASF welcome center and walking around town."

Thursday in Koln (Cologne)

thursday's travel to Koln was trying. I journeyed from "Lu" to Mannheim main station, where I purchased a ticket to Koln. I then made my way to the platform to wait for departure at 10:35 am. when the train arrived, I boarded, found a seat and started knitting...all too soon I'm afraid. I was sitting in the reserved seat of a German man unable to understand my apologetic english.

the German businessman sitting next to me asked, "you did not buy a seat? you have to have a seat!" totally flustered and embarrassed I exited the train and returned to the ticket office, where I learned: "1. having a ticket to a destination does not equal a seat on the train you choose; 2. you can travel without a seat assignment on the ice train, just find one without a reservation; 3. want a guaranteed seat? pay 4,50 euro extra for one!" I paid the 4,50 euro to have a guaranteed seat on the next train...departing 11:35 am!

"Koln is definitely a large city. It lives up to it's fourth largest in Germany status. It reminds me of the streets of Chicago- lots of people and lots of cameras. Finding the Cathedral was no problem. As soon as you walk outside the main station, it's there!"

"The Cathedral was worth the ninety minute train ride. It is amazing!! I spent a good while walking through the Cathedral taking photos and watching visitors."

Interesting Cathedral facts:

:: the beginnings of the Cathedral reach back into the fourth century.

:: the cornerstone was set in 1248.

:: the construction of the entire Cathedral was completed in 1880.

:: the spires are 157m high.

"After an hour in the Cathedral, I made my way over to the Information Center. After hearing the descriptions of the bus tours, I chose the ninety minute "Open Air" bus...and sat on top! The narration was in German and English."

"After the bus tour, I spent some time shopping downtown. Farina cologne for me, 4711 cologne for Kathy, and an Edelweiss Pandora bead for my bracelet." then I realized in all the train confusion this morning, I had missed lunch! I was hungry and in the mood for something from home. lucky for me this was just around my next corner:

today was really hard for me. I felt like crying most of the day.

this was my final journal entry for the day: "I really miss home. I want to talk to someone in English! I want to drive my own car and know where I am going. I want to know what the street signs mean. I want to not worry about where I will go to the bathroom, and if I'll have the money for it when I arrive! I want to eat and not be sick after. I want to take care of my boys! I want to go home!"

I feel better tomorrow. Check back to see my adventure in Speyer.

Worms

2011-04-06T10:26:00.014-04:00

Tuesday in Worms

today I take you to Worms (pronounced "Vorms"), also know as "Little Jerusalem."

"Today Miriam began printing out the train schedule for me. Having the Bahn schedule with times and platform numbers gave me a bit of confidence. If I needed help and had difficulty communicating, I could at least share this sheet with my home station on it- Ludwigshafen Hbf ."

"As I walked down Wilh-Leuschner-StraBe, I paused at a tailor shop and street vendor. The flowers for sale made me think of Christine and Miriam, my kind young friends at the hotel. For without them, I fear my entire trip would have been spent walking around Ludwigshafen. The flowers would be a great gift for them. And at 1,00 euro, they were a great price. I hoped the shop would be open on my return trip to the train station. It was, and the shopkeeper (who didn't speak English) and I were able to communicate enough to complete the sale."

:: Luther Monument::

It was here in Worms, where Emperor Charles the Fifth brought Dr. Martin Luther on April 17/18, 1521 to recant his writings. He refused. The monument shows Dr. Martin Luther in the center along with other earlier reformers, electors, and friends.

:: Imperial Cathedral of St. Peter ::

"St. Peter's Cathedral...oh my goodness...the massive size of it! I was overwhelmed with emotion. It was cold inside. An older man sat inside a glass cubical. I smiled at him and gently waved my camera asking, "can I take pictures?" he shook his head "yes." this was just one more example of the many "conversations" I'm having."

:: Holy Sands ::

this is the oldest Jewish cemetery in Europe, approximately 2000 graves, dating back to 1076. mark and I think the papers and rocks are prayers left by family members or visitors. (maybe you can help us with that Larissa?)

"Before heading back to the station, I stopped by Vannini for an ice cream. I chose a pink flavor hoping it was fruity. It tasted like raspberry. The young man who served me understood my order:

"One, very small, .80 euro."

"Cone or dish?"

"Cone, please."

I paid.

He said "thank you" with a smile.

I smiled and said "danke."

another clock for my collection...this one my mom will appreciate!

I hope you'll visit Koln with me tomorrow.

Mannheim

2011-04-05T09:51:00.022-04:00

many thanks to you for your kind comments. this week I'll be trying to find a balance between words, pictures, and details. I'll be letting the words from my travel journal, my memory and my photos all do some talking.

Monday in Mannheim

mark and I traveled over the weekend to allow for a bit of transition time before his work began. I have to admit that after he left on Monday, I was so tempted to stay in the hotel and sleep all day using 'tired' as an excuse. but this little voice inside my head said, "do you want the only pictures of your trip to be of this hotel?" the answer was a resounding "no" so I tackled my fear and (with some help) made my way to Mannheim.

"After detailed instructions and detailed maps, I made my way to the "train" = streetcar "station" = stop, a few blocks from the hotel. The lady I asked for help using the ticket machine didn't speak english, so I took pictures of the entire machine and walked back to the hotel for help from Christine. She chuckled at my photos..."good idea," she said. And back to the station I went with 2,20 euro in hand."

this is a look down the street in two directions. Above- to the main station in Mannheim. you can also see the local train I traveled on to the left. and Below- down the main shopping street.

"I made it! It's beautiful outside- sunny with a light breeze. I'm sitting in Parade-Platz with lots of people. I'm hearing- shoes on pavement, church bells, and talking in German. I'm seeing- lots of smoking, very few people on cell phones, and very few people in sneakers."

This photo was the start of what would become a collection of clocks. In each town or city I visited, I always found a new and interesting clock. this is on the Mannheim Castle- Barockschloss, which is now one of the most beautiful universities in Germany- Mannheim University.

Also at this location is the Catholic Church- Schlosskirche Mannheim set up as the court chapel. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart would play here during his visits to Mannheim.

I'm noticing:

lift = elevator

WC = toilet

StraBe = Strasse

the Easter holiday is really popular

Tomorrow I'll share details from my two visits Worms!

germany!

2011-04-04T08:25:00.009-04:00

Guten Morgen (Good Morning) my friends!

mark was asked to attend a business conference; I was asked to tag along. we had a wonderful time together as just two. it's been a long time since we traveled without children. this week, I'll be sharing the sights, observations, and many of the lessons learned from my journey.

travel via airplane and ice train :: exploring Ludwigshafen...our home base

:: local time at destination-9:14 am; local time at origin-4:14 am

:: distance traveled- 6,967 km (4,328 miles)

:: 190 passengers, 9 attendants

:: the king's speech, which we couldn't hear

:: with the last sight of land, I prayed

:: the train was quiet

:: well kept homes, cafe curtains, small trash cans

:: lots of street signs

:: a pepperoni pizza = a salami pizza

:: all the shops are closed on Sunday; it's a social, family day

tomorrow I'll share Mannheim!

re-entry

2011-04-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

re-entry into normal life has been slow.

I'm tired, and the boys need me.

we've been doing what has to be done and going to bed early.

I'll see you next week refreshed and ready to share my adventures in Germany!

paper crazy

2011-03-31T10:05:00.012-04:00

during last year's ADVENTure, I created this for two special young girls in my life. this year, I decided to make a version of ali's december daily for each of them- a place to record their Christmas memories as well as a few photos.

I love mini-scrapbooks!! I think the size takes the intimidation out of the whole "scrapbook" process. I used pre-made kits for the structure then embellished with papers, ribbon, and stickers.

an added benefit to making these two mini scraps is that I was also able to take the time to complete my December Daily from 2008! I created this scrap from re-purposed cardboard (some cereal boxes and some paper dividers) before the Christmas season started, but stalled when I couldn't keep up with the "daily" part of the project. so it sat. and sat. and sat. when I looked through the amount still left to do to finish, I jumped in!

oh the freedom finishing brings. now, instead of thinking "I really need to finish that," I smile and enjoy the glance it receives.

for my april ADVENTure projects, I'll be venturing back into punch needle and knitting. see you then! and don't forget to link up your most recent ADVENTure post with the rest of us!

tip of the month: think about how you will record the moments of your holiday. will you use photos? a journal? videos? a combination? I believe the moments of our lives are meant to be lived, recorded, and remembered. I hope you'll try something new this year to record your moments.

leavin' on a jet plane

2011-03-18T16:34:00.000-04:00

passport and euros, check.

new shoes, check.

authorizations to schools, check.

the list is shrinking, and the time is drawing near.

I'll be back soon.

the weekend was

2011-03-07T18:04:00.010-05:00

:: work ::

:: handmade pop tarts ::

:: more snow ::

:: unstructured ::

~imagine a picture of a family in pjs here~

:: full of ADVENTure creating ::

whatever your weekend included, I trust you were safe, happy, and healthy. this week will be full of research and creating a travel journal for our upcoming trip to Germany!!

paper ADVENTure

2011-03-03T11:55:00.018-05:00

the month off from knitting and stitching has been good. really good. the days have taken me in all different directions from mothering sick ones to rediscovering creative loves to celebrating a new year of living. and while I started stitching again last night, I'm desiring a little more balance in my creative life going forward (more on this in another post).

the projects I created in February, for myself and my ADVENTure, all centered around my love of paper and memory keeping.

:: project 1 ::

I drew inspiration from Stacy Julian's book Big Picture Scrapbooking for this mini-scrap for a *L* in my life. I covered these outback steakhouse coasters with pretty papers on one side and her name on the other and a ribbon running through all. my hope is that she captures a few special memories here.

:: project 2 ::

after making these, I decided a special someone might enjoy the gift of cards, so I've started a "year of cards" collection for this gift. each time I make cards, I'm making a few extra and tucking them away. this month I added valentines and thank you's.

:: project 3 ::

this year (february 2011 to february 2012) I'm moving one of my scrapbook ideas from the "to-do" list to the "to-done" list. the skeleton frame is now complete for my "all about me at forty three" scrapbook.

my desire is to not only capture special moments but also special "things" about me at this age. growing up I don't remember thinking of my mom as a woman with hopes, dreams, wants, and needs of her own...she was just "my mom." some day my boys may look back on these years and say: "mom was always creating something; and she had these friends online that she cherished; and why did she take pictures of the mundane in our life?" this scrapbook is intended to explain some of that.

tip of the month: start thinking about the holiday sweet treats you love and love to make. some of the recipes you love to eat may not be the same ones you love to make.

like baking cookies? pick your three favorite recipes, and stick with those. holiday baking doesn't have to be about ten different varieties and the stress they bring with them!

and for those of you looking for a new recipe...you may want to bookmark these for future use- peppermint whoopie pies.

I know many of you have been diligently creating for your own ADVENTure. link up with others to share your thoughts and ideas. please remember to link to your specific post(s) that are ADVENTure related.

words for wednesday

2011-02-23T22:21:00.006-05:00

do the kinds of things that come from the heart.

when you do,

you won't be dissatisfied.

you won't be envious.

you won't be longing for somebody else's things.

on the contrary,

you'll be overwhelmed with what comes back.

-Morrie Schwartz

words for wednesday

2011-02-16T11:01:00.017-05:00

the purpose of the task

is to strengthen the relationship.

- professor unknown

I so needed to read this post today. over the past few weeks I've been doing a lot of soul searching...evaluating my life...the big (how to be more like Him), the small (what's for dinner), the ugly (my need for control), the partner (encouraging the traveler), the mommy (taking care of young ones), the productive (using a "to-do" list to get it "to-done"), and the fun (knitting, cross stitching, card making, sewing, scrap booking, reading, blogging, etc...). my desire is to invest in the relationships. now I need to align my parts.

string of hearts

2011-02-11T13:13:00.019-05:00

my shutdown on knitting and cross stitching has allowed me time to create with paper. the stringed hearts here and here, gave me the inspiration I needed for my valentines. thank you friends for all the inspiration you so willingly share!!

supplies:

white cardstock

red cardstock

pink cardstock or pink note cards

white pearle cotton thread- one 10" piece per card

needle

pop dot

tape

cricut cutting machine*

*I used my cricut machine with the "beyond birthdays" cartridge to cut 6- 1" white hearts and 1- 1.25" red heart for each valentine. If you don't have this machine you can use your computer to create or hand cut the hearts.

the process goes like this:

* cut enough 1" white hearts and 1.25" red hearts out of cardstock for the number of cards you'll be making. (6- 1" white hearts and 1- 1.25" red heart per card)

* using the threaded needle, string hearts on cotton thread in order- three white, one red, three white.

* attach the string of hearts from the front side of card to back.

* tie a knot at the end of each side of thread on back of card. put a small amount of tape over knot.

* once you have the hearts in a position you like, add a pop dot to the back of the red heart and attach to the card.

* write greeting and share generously.

words for wednesday

2011-02-09T10:24:00.002-05:00

people don't care how much you know

until they know how much you care.

-John C. Maxwell

show someone how much you care today.

mandatory shut down

2011-02-02T09:51:00.006-05:00

after knitting my last dish cloth, a week of constant pain, and a jump over fear, a doctor's visit was required. this was the doctor's diagnosis- De Quervain's Disease aka tendonitis.

his recommendations: cease and desist my knitting, cross stitch, and computer use. I have to be honest...while, an initial tidal wave of fear rushed through my body, I'm now anticipating a month of exploring new and renewed relationship builders and crafts, while I let my finger heal. know that I'm thinking of you and will visit you when I can.

today we're experiencing heavy snow, a day off school and some baking. I hope you have some flakes too!

a beginning

2011-01-25T20:30:00.024-05:00

please forgive me for being a day late sharing my ADVENTure projects. a little bit of sickness has hit our home, so snuggling and pampering took priority to this post.

this is what I've been working on this month:

:: a chunky cowl ::

Pattern: Chunky Cowl

Yarn: Gedifra, Benevito, Wine Red

Needles: US 17 circular

Project Notes: I loved this yarn. it was chunky and easy on the needles.

:: a new stack of these ::

:: Christmas thank you notes ::

:: Christmas gift tags ::

:: and a continuation of my stitched santas ::

tip of the month: you've made your gift recipient list. you're creating gifts. now don't wait until December to think about gift wrap and gift tags!

last year I thought it would be great to wait until December and spread out all my creations (enter a little sinful pride) and admire them (enter a little more sinful pride). when the time came to start wrapping, I realized I had to back track to make gift tags with use and care instructions. ugghh. so this year, we've picked our wrapping colors, and I made up a few gift tags to get me started.

I've added links to the Holiday Planner and the new ADVENTure flickr group over in the sidebar. and for those of you participating in your own ADVENTure (see this post), I invite you to link up your posts here:

really cold

2011-01-22T10:08:00.012-05:00

"it's cold out."

"I know. I was out earlier."

"no. I mean really cold, bundle up."

this was our conversation as I prepared to leave for work last night. first show back, with a nervous stomach, I left.

at 10:00 on my way home, I had to stop at the grocery. it seemed even colder as I got out of my warm car and stomped (because of clodhopper-kind-of- boots) into the store.

as I came out with my groceries, my mind went to the guests we served just a month ago at ChristNet. where were they tonight? had they found a shelter? could they walk around meijer all night to keep warm? "Lord keep them warm tonight."

I can't imagine not having a home to come home to. and yet for thousands among us, that is their reality. "Lord, may I have a sensitivity to the needs around me and act when I can."

we have a winner!

2011-01-18T21:31:00.010-05:00

I'm excited so many of you will be joining me in ADVENTure 2011!! I can't wait to see what we create over the next eleven months! be sure to stop back here next week to link up and share your progress.

so far we have:

deb

emily

jan

jen g.

and we have a winner!! GiGi you're the one! connor picked your name! please email me your address, so I can send off a holiday planner to you!!

ADVENTure 2.0

2011-01-12T17:27:00.025-05:00

last year I went on a brand new ADVENTure, and many of you traveled with me via my monthly posts. that journey was a significant and meaningful one for me, and it turned out to be so much more than "pick a project, make it, and give it away."

I can't imagine not doing it this year, so off I go again! it would be such an added blessing to have you join me in this journey and create an ADVENTure of your own. so, consider yourself invited to ADVENTure 2011!

here's a rough sketch of the plan:

on the 25th of each month I'll be posting my ADVENTure happenings- completed projects, projects in progress, tips for success and encouragement for the journey. in that post will be Mr. Linky allowing you to link up your own ADVENTure post as we create together! there may even be a flickr group and a few pdfs in the works. :)

now...some of you may be thinking...

* "really? didn't I just pack away that holiday?"

* "where do I start?"

* "I really need to be closer to December and in full holiday mode to have inspiration."

* "I don't have anyone to create for."

all things I confess to have thought or heard when the idea first started to take shape, but I offer back to you my own answers...

* yes, we did just complete Christmas 2010, but let me encourage you that I'll be giving you tips for success and tools to use throughout the project. and...

* yes, you can find inspiration in january! I'm living proof! and...

* whether the gift is for a loved one, a favorite charity, or for you, we can always find someone to bless with a hand made gift.

so let's begin!

looking back at 2010, this is how I got started:

1. make a list

as part of my holiday planner, I use this gift list. I fill in the names of all of our family and friends we'll be giving a gift to.

2. take. time. to. think.

the most appreciated and used gifts are those specific to your recipient. something just for them! so, this step is really important and won't be completed in one sitting.

when choosing those to give handmade items to, you might start with questions like: what do they like to do? what is their favorite color? what is their favorite season? what do you make that they already love? what would you love to make for them?

I use the "gift idea" column to jot down any ideas left over from last year and not used or ones I thought of after Christmas that would be just right for them. as you make your way through the year, you'll add items under the "gift ideas" or "final gift" columns (whether handmade or store purchased). I visit my gift list over and over again throughout the year.

3. monthly map

I then took my "to create for" list, chose my first projects, and mapped as many as I could out month by month. I knew that my santa project would be year long craft, so each month of the map had "santa" listed. I then would add projects to the map as I found just the right one.

4. just start

so now it's time to "just start!" whether that means creating a list, making gift tags or knitting a beautiful cowl, starting a journey is the only way to finish one. I found that consistent achievement fueled the momentum of finding the next inspiring project and completing it.

so off we go! as we begin I hope you'll embrace the journey and make it your own! I'm excited to see what the year will bring in both the project and personal growth arenas. and don't forget to stop back here january 25th to link up with me and your fellow travelers!

as you can see, I can't live without my Holiday Planner! you may or may not have some type of planner already in place. but for those of you interested...when you leave a comment by tuesday, january 18th at noon...you'll have a chance to receive your own Holiday Planner put together by me, for you! and for those of you who don't celebrate Christmas, how about a set of handmade cards if you win!!

go send a card

2011-01-12T08:48:00.016-05:00

I love to send cards. always have, always will. I could spend hours making cards, thinking of the people I love, picking out the perfect card, then sitting down and hand writing a special message. that whole process would make up a "perfect" day for me.

did you know January 9th - 16th is National Lettering Writing Week?

just another reason to pick up your pen and share a few thoughts with a friend.

having a hard time thinking of someone to send a card to? what about: someone who blessed you with an awesome gift recently; someone who's lost a loved one in the past year; a friend you haven't spoken to in awhile; a relative you'd like a stronger connection with; a child who needs a bit of extra encouragement.

now that I have you thinking, "just start." send out one hand written note this week. I dare you to bless someone with your words!

To send a letter is a good way to go somewhere

without moving anything but your heart.

- Phyllis Theroux

two little words

2011-01-10T17:33:00.010-05:00

for the past few years, I've watched ali start her "one little word" project. a few times I even tried to play along by picking a word then, after only a few months, loose steam and focus. this year I think I've found two little words that are sustainable for my entire year..."just start."

for me it's not always the big projects that get procrastinated. it can be something as simple as making a doctor's appointment or getting new windshield wipers...important but not urgent, yet an item on a "to do" list adding to the mental clutter I carry around.

but most often, I find myself dead in my tracks when tackling things I'm afraid of or have no experience doing. remember my pleated apron? I had the supplies in my craft room for three months before I tackled it. really?! and then once it was sewn, I asked myself "why did you wait so long to try that?"

in an effort to get our family rhythm back, I'm forcing routine and "just start" moments. today these simple just start moments made me smile:

{finally using gift cards}

{finishing laundry and ironing}

{getting our surroundings back to simple}

I hope you have something you can "just start," so it will be just finished sooner than you think! next up for me? applying for a passport!

finish one, start another

2011-01-07T09:07:00.028-05:00

my final projects from my ADVENTure 2010...

first up, another set of beautiful shoe bags. I fell in love with this fabric collection at joann's and had to narrow my selection to just four! this time I used a fabric with brown, so I could use the brown cotton twill tape (instead of searching after the elusive black cotton twill tape).

************

I think my two little words for 2011 need to be "just start," because once I did, this project was finished. really...you can make this! and now that I have finished one, I know a few more special people in my life will be receiving an apron this year! you can find the tutorial on darby's blog here.

project notes: I purchased my fabric at joann's in the home decor section. I would definitely make the ties longer next time. as you see in Darby's photo, she's a rather thin lady. when I tried on the finished apron, I could knot it in the back, but nothing more. nothing like making a project that reminds me to start walking again!

finished gift count: 17

finished santa count: 5

finished home deco count: 4

************

and it wouldn't be Christmas if I didn't use my kitchen and my love for baking to gift others. I spent many wonderful hours creating all of this:

with all of these recipes:

{caramel corn snack mix}

{chocolate dipped oreos}

{oreo truffles}

{seven layer cookies}

and {chocolate covered pretzels}

so as I finish one year, I start another anticipating all the places God will take me through this gift of creating. I'd love for you to join me in ADVENTure 2011! watch for your invitation to link up soon.

wrapping it up

2011-01-06T16:41:00.018-05:00

I've been a little slow with the take down. I know many of you have long since packed up Christmas and moved on to New Year's resolutions, new projects, and new adventures. I'll catch up. I'm just a little slow.

during our many driving hours down to Florida to spend Christmas with Mark's family, I decided to take January very s l o w. we decorate early and take it down late. we alternate holidays and travel a lot. it's just what we do. so I enjoy using the first few weeks of January to take stock, stock up, and continue enjoying the warmth of the season.

before the weekend comes and the decorations come down and I move on a bit, I want to share a few sights of our December:

:: our reason for the season, the Christ child ::

:: favorite tree ornaments ::

:: craft traditions ::

:: many hours of kitchen fun ::

:: time spent blessing others ::

:: quality time with one family ::

:: and then another ::

and tomorrow, the finish to my 2010 ADVENTure. see you then!

note to self

2011-01-04T16:54:00.012-05:00

take re-entry slow.

leave the tree up, if you like.

snuggle when they want to snuggle.

repeat your ADVENTure.

make a gift. wrap a gift.

don't volunteer to organize the class Christmas party.

take the Christmas photo during the summer.

use ball jars to gift sweet treats.

let your presence be present.

home again, home again

2010-12-31T22:03:00.005-05:00

and it feels so good. after being away for ten days, I can't wait to climb into my own bed tonight! but before I do, I wanted to stop by and wish you a New Year full of love, joy and memorable moments. I'll be back soon to share the final projects of my ADVENTure and the unhurried moments of our Christmas holiday. and I can't wait to linger over your adventures as well.

many thanks for sharing 2010 with me. I appreciated each of your visits and kind comments of support. blessings to you my friends!

goodbye 2010.

hello 2011.

o tannenbaum

2010-12-14T06:46:00.018-05:00

when larissa and lisa started their quilt-a-long last year, I had good intentions of joining in. unfortunately, I only got as far as purchasing beautiful fabric from my favorite amish quilt shop.

this fabric sat...and sat...and sat, until I added "Christmas quilt" to my list of projects to tackle during my ADVENTure.

I'm over the moon happy with how it turned out! this project was definitely a labor of love for me. you quilters who whip up amazing masterpieces in just two days amaze me!

this slow moving process was enjoyable from start to finish- from the fabric cutting, to piecing and sewing, to (all that) the ironing. but my most favorite part was hand sewing the binding! thanks for encouraging me to do that, lisa!

here are my project details, links, and personal notes.

:: fabric ::

choose fabric you LOVE! I spent a lot of time with these fabrics and probably wouldn't have finished had it not been for my love of the fabric. I used a total of nine different patterns from this collection: moda fabrics, basic grey: figgy pudding; pattern numbers: 30182- blue, 30183- blue, 30185- white and multi, 30186- juniper, 30187- red, 30188- brown and blue, 30189- juniper

:: skills ::

I had to learn from many friends to complete this project. heartfelt thanks to all of you for sharing your talent and knowledge!

* layout and quilt pattern: oh, fransson!; charm squares baby quilt

* quilting basics and inspiration: the jolly bee, jonquils and ladybugs, oh, fransson!, stitches in play and stitching under oaks

* a local machine quilter did the "O Tannenbaum" pattern

* this quilt binding tutorial helped me finish it off

:: details ::

* finished quilt size- 45 1/2" wide by 48 1/2" tall

* I added two rows of quilt blocks down the back of the quilt to increase the width.

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life,

to mind your own business

and to work with your hands.

-1 Thessalonians 4:11 NIV

happy wednesday!

2010-12-08T08:41:00.007-05:00

stopping by for a quick update of a few finished ADVENTure projects. these are wrapped and ready to bless! I love that. having my gifts waiting and ready to give. let's be honest, most years I'm up until 3:00 am the night before we leave for holiday wrapping gifts.

this week I'm focusing on being unhurried. I may inevitably be "busy" but I'm challenging myself to be unhurried amidst the busy. taking the time I need to recharge, connect with others, and savor all that the celebration of His birth has to offer!

Pattern: Dolores Park Cowl

Yarn: Trendsetter Yarns, Granito, Color 4

Needles: US 13 circular

Project Notes: love the feel of this yarn!! so soft against your face. I used one and a half skeins of yarn.

I can't get enough of these! this time in Cascade 220, black.

and these again, by special request. I finally found a colorway that may match her kitchen!

finished gift count: 15

finished santa count: 5

finished home deco count: 3

it's here!

2010-12-01T22:33:00.012-05:00

it's here! december is finally here! happy December 1st! this morning we were blessed with a front that finally brought us cold temperatures and snow! a wonderfully beautiful day of snow flurries provided the perfect weather outside for me to stay inside and craft. in my hour, I created a sweet little gift to let two special young ladies know we're thinking of them!

Supply list: cottage christmas card stock sheet and card stock for matting purchased at Archiver's, adhesive, paper trimmer, xyron lamination, magnet buttons, plastic boxes and ribbon for mailing.

Directions: cut, mat, laminate, add magnets, enjoy!

over the next two weeks, I'll be finishing up my ADVENTure 2010, and (of course) sharing my final projects with you here. my year long project of making gifts, paper projects, and home decor items will come to a close. some of the planned projects will need to be put on the shelf and considered for next year, which makes me sad. but this has been one amazing adventure and I'm so excited to share all the gifts I've created. these advent magnets were made and mailed today, so it's not too late for you to create an easy project! go. now. create.

thankful moments

2010-11-29T20:22:00.008-05:00

from start to finish the month of november was full of thankful moments. and before we enter a new season, I want to say "thanks" for making this space one you visit. I so appreciate your kind and thoughtful comments.

:: her hands prepared our meals ::

:: her smile brought us joy ::

:: our table offered more than enough ::

:: from start to finish ::

:: and on friday we played ::

:: Ft. McHenry, Baltimore, MD ::

goodbye november. hello december.

scrappy

2010-11-14T23:24:00.007-05:00

after finishing my Christmas quilt top and back (which I'm so excited to finally share) I had extra fabric strips. I love these fabrics and wanted to find a good use for them. after seeing this tutorial, I knew just what to make...scrappy Christmas cards. this is how they came together:

I'm sure you have a few fabrics in your stash you'd love to use again. I hope you'll try to make some scrappy cards for yourself.

(many) words for wednesday

2010-11-10T13:49:00.010-05:00

I am reading this in book study right now, and we've reached the chapter on "the practice of celebration." after reading it, I'm realizing I may need to be more joyful!! can I admit that and not be judged? knowing myself all too well, over the next several weeks busyness and stress will try to steal my joy (as they've done so many times before). with new insight and new disciplines to practice, my hope is to keep my focus on joy and thanksgiving. I hope you enjoy these quotes and a few paper projects that brought me joy over the last few weeks.

We are invited to rejoice in every moment of life

because every moment is a gift.

Joyfulness is a learned skill.

...your joy is your responsibility.

People who want to pursue joy

especially need to practice

the discipline of celebration.

When we celebrate,

we exercise our ability to see and feel goodness

in the simplest gifts of God.

True joy, as it turns out,

comes only to those

who have devoted their lives

to something greater than personal happiness.

-John Ortberg

the parent becomes the student

2010-10-21T22:15:00.030-04:00

today was a sad day. spencer turned in all of his football equipment.

last night the team finished the season with a win and a perfect 6-0 record! the past eleven weeks I’ve become a student to my wise thirteen year old son. I’ve learned so many things about myself, my son, and of course football. these are a few of my favorite photos of this awesome season with my most important lessons learned sprinkled in.

where you start doesn’t determine where you’ll finish.

spencer started the season on third string defense. he spent all of his early practices doing “drills” while he watched others practicing plays. he finished the season as the starting outside linebacker and second string wingback.

“you never get anywhere with fear in your way.”

I was fairly sure football was going to be out of Spencer’s comfort zone, but I didn’t realize how much until I read these words that he wrote inside a thank you note to one of his coaches. how true are his words? at times we’ve all let fear prevent us from traveling down an unexplored road.

there’s life on the sideline.

the myth is that all the action takes place out on the field. I now know there’s a lot to be learned and a lot to be shared when you’re watching from the sideline.

dedication...putting your entire self into it.

spencer never hid from responsibility. he was always willing to do what needed to be done to make the team better. from carrying equipment in from the practice field, to filling in at a new position, to practicing it one more time, he was dedicated to being the best football player he could be.

isn’t it funny how sometimes the parent becomes the student.

special somewhere

2010-10-17T21:55:00.019-04:00

last weekend I stepped back on campus and celebrated the anniversary of receiving a diploma with my name on it. 20 years ... has it really been that long? my years at grove city college really were the best of times, and it was great to relive a little of that for a weekend. there were times that it seemed almost like yesterday and others where it was obviously 20 years later. it was a great weekend sharing memories and families with those I was closest to. here are a few of my favorite sights of campus and around town:

much of my time on campus was spent with my college family-my friends and sorority sisters who became my family. many years and many miles have separated most of us, but the memories of the moments upon moments I spent with these three friends came rushing back to me.

ten years ago when this same photo was taken, it was two young moms with three young children. now look at us, a little older moms with three young adults and two young men. amazing how time passes.

she is my most treasured blessing that I left college with. in girl scouts, we used to sing "make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other's gold." as I grow older, I'm realizing popularity is not the name of the game. but having true friends who love you unconditionally, forgive you continually, and encourage you genuinely is the one true treasure of relationships. she is one true friend.

if I had my life to live over...

2010-10-06T20:53:00.015-04:00

I'd dare to make more mistakes next time.

I'd relax.

I would limber up.

I would be sillier than I have been this trip.

I would take fewer things seriously.

I would take more chances.

I would take more trips.

I would climb more mountains and swim more rivers.

I would eat more ice cream and less beans.

I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but fewer imaginary ones.

You see, I'm one of those people who live sensibly and sanely

hour after hour, day after day.

Oh, I've had my moments.

If I had it to do over again, I'd have more of them.

In fact, I'd try to have nothing else.

Just moments, one after another,

instead of living so many years ahead of each day.

I've been one of those persons

who never goes anywhere without a thermometer,

a hot water bottle, a raincoat, and a parachute.

If I could do it again, I would travel lighter than I have.

If I had my life to live over,

I would start barefoot earlier in the spring

and stay that way later in the fall.

I would go to more dances.

I would ride more merry-go-rounds.

I would pick more daisies.

-Nadine Stair

This is my favorite poem. ever. I received it back in the ninth grade from my Language Arts teacher. If you can picture in your mind a hippie, you'd be right on. I remember her long flowing skirts, pulled back waist length blonde hair, Birkenstock sandals for every season and her passion for her subject. I just wish I remembered her name. She wanted her students to experience books, not just read them. She wanted us to experience and write poetry, not just read it. I sometimes wonder if anyone else in my class kept that poem.

When I found this poem printed with beautifully illustrated daisies (an appropriate flower to remember her by), I discarded her typed black and white copy. My colorful poem now hangs in my creative space. A place I haven't had time or energy to visit in two weeks. Today I had to use my Cricut machine for a school project. One glance at this poem, and I thought of her.

I'd say: "I'm sorry for not having my quilt top completed and ready to share with you." or "I'm sorry I've been away from this space and many of yours for so long." but I can only say: "I can't live my life over." Life doesn't offer re-dos. I must continue on. I must prioritize my tasks in order to live moment to moment without regrets. My life (like many of yours) is really full right now. Next week I may be on more even ground, but right now I'm a little unbalanced.

3 months and counting

2010-09-25T23:00:00.001-04:00

I'm sure you've seen it. you many have even cringed the first time you did. hallmark has it; today qvc had an entire day dedicated to it; magazine covers will soon be all about it; and michael's and joann's...they have it too. you know what I'm talking about...Christmas! today we're just three months away from that joyous celebration!

if you haven't started thinking about your gift giving ideas yet, it might be time to start a list. start small; make a list of five gift recipients; jot down an idea for each. there, you've started.

the past two weeks, I've been focusing a lot of attention on my Christmas quilt top. my first attempt at this process has been time consuming and challenging. but as each row comes together, I inch one step closer to completion. stay tuned, I'll share all the details next week when it's sewn and ready to sandwich.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

last year I picked up this book 75% off at Archiver's. it has plenty of ideas to keep any crafter busy, but I knew my first project had to be this paper wreath.

printed supply list:

*one 12" foam wreath, painted green

*100 strips of double sided paper, 1" x 6"

*small pins

*ribbon for hanging and bow

my project notes:

*I chose a 12" green foam wreath and skipped the painting.

*I used an 8"x 8" single sided holiday paper collection I had in my stash. I glued my favorite papers back to back to make double sided paper and cut each piece into one inch strips.

*the wreath actually took me just 64 strips of paper, because mine were 1"x8" instead of the size recommended.

*I used cranberry grosgrain ribbon to create the hanger and bow. note: be sure to form and attach the ribbon hanger before you add your paper strips.

I was so tickled with this project I used my remaining paper strips to make a second wreath for connor's teacher.

the collection:

finished gift count: 11

finished santa count: 5

finished home deco count: 2

blocks of 15

2010-09-15T21:56:00.024-04:00

I hope you've been finding fifteen minutes to follow a passion, make progress on a project, or take time out for yourself.

as I've been taking my own advice and using fifteen minute blocks, I'm realizing I have a couple faulty beliefs.

I believed what I was told-

"if you can't do it 'right', don't do it at all,"

which led me to believe-

if you can't finish a task/project completely, it's not worth starting.

which led me to-

perfection thinking.

I think I'm ready to leave those limiting beliefs behind and keep my eyes looking forward.

I've learned that in fifteen minutes I can:

*walk to school

*pick up the house each morning

*send special notes to friends

*work on my Christmas quilt, one. step. at. a. time.

*mow the front lawn

*put away two loads of laundry

*take a power nap

I'd love to hear what you found you can do in fifteen minutes.

cast on, cast off

2010-09-09T16:06:00.009-04:00

that's just how it felt to knit this dream of a scarf. I purchased the yarn and received the pattern, when I visited SO Original with lisa. what a wonderful yarn shop! lana had so many tempting projects on display that I left with yarn for three! add those to her huge book, pattern, and yarn selection and you'd be in stitches for years.

Pattern: Dropped Stitch Scarf by SO original

Yarn: Araucania, Ulmo Multy, in color #704; 1 skein

Needles: US 7

Project Notes: This project will keep you interested! There are multiple yarn overs that make the varying length, bar-like design in between knitting rows. So it's easy to find and fix mistakes. (I know, because I made a few.)

not sure what direction my crafting will take next. I have a beautiful punch needle project, my Christmas quilt, and a lacy shawl all calling my name...

**many thanks for all your wonderfully kind comments on my last post. I hope you're on your way to finishing a project that's been dangling. much love to you.**

cre8.

2010-09-07T01:03:00.028-04:00

the past few weeks, our house has been filled with activity, as mark and I checked "to do" items off our lists. we've done time consuming projects like (finally) painting and decorating the downstairs' family room area for the boys to easier projects like (finally) ordering 5x7 photos to fill picture frames. we kept each other moving toward the finish line with words of encouragement and by finishing one project at a time.

{because it's our first day of school...} remember newton's first law of motion? an object at rest will remain at rest and an object in motion will remain in motion unless acted upon by an unbalanced force. I can say I've been at rest.

I've always considered myself a finisher. that is until I was hit with the feelings that came after kris' death back in may. then something happened. I got stuck. do you ever get stuck? ever feel like you just don't have enough time or a project is too large or you don't have the skills to finish? if so, don't loose heart! you can finish those projects!!

here are a few of my finishing tips:

* make a written list of projects taking up space in your mind and consuming mental energy

* pick the most important task for you to finish to feel like you've made progress

* begin working on that one item for 15 minutes

{don't discount 15 minutes! you'd be amazed at what you can complete in that amount of time!!}

* as time permits, add time to the project in 15 minute increments

* don't focus on perfection, focus on completion

* celebrate each and every finished "to do" with a large check

* once you're moving...pick the next task and repeat

while many of our items were house related, I had plenty of things I wanted to cre8 as well. these are 8 of my favorites:

1. back-to-school card cre8tions

2. an idea that turned into a new fall decoration

3. a dropped stitch scarf

4. a set of laundry room curtains

5. a craft room curtain

6. an original lego cre8tion

7. pillowcases for connor.

8. and (the most important) part of the downstairs' family room

happy finishing my friends!

a new twist on an old favorite

2010-08-31T21:25:00.010-04:00

last week in the midst of our preparations for connor's birthday celebration, I read this post, fell in love with this wreath, and had to make one! go ahead, follow the tutorial and make one for your family!

my only tip to you is to not worry about keeping the balloons too close together. I began by bunching balloons tightly, careful to make sure you wouldn't see any of the base wreath. I soon realized that I was going to need two-three times as many balloons as the instructions called for, and my balloon wreath was going to look more like a balloon ball (no hole in the middle). :-) I finished the project by hanging the wreath from a balloon that I made into a hanger.

I'll be pulling out the birthday balloon wreath as part of a new family tradition.

seven

2010-08-31T00:01:00.002-04:00

friday he turned seven. celebrating and party preparations prohibited a timely post. but he so deserves one!

in seven words, he is:

focused

joyful

loving

loyal

genuine

tenderhearted

thoughtful

when I found out I was pregnant with child number two, the biggest question in my mind was "how can I love another, like I love spencer?" lucky for me, God's design for a mother's heart is for it to expand with more than enough love.

after spending a few moments with my second son, you'd probably come away with a similar list of adjectives to the ones I listed. yet we could bundle them all together and call him "mr. big." for when you get to know him, you'd see that he loves big, plays big, cares big, competes big...everything big.

this boy of mine is an early riser (seven am is late for him), and he is ready to go when his feet hit the floor. he loves waffles and honey nut cheerios. while his brother collected thomas the tank engine trains, he collects lego projects. he is patient to the nth degree when assembly is in session.

this boy of mine is an observer of people. as you watch him in a crowd, he is initially quiet and reserved, watching and analyzing his surroundings...he's always thinking. and then when the moment is right, he joins in.

this boy of mine is all about play. whether it's wii, psp, or wiffle ball in the backyard, this boy is a real live action figure. this action makes it easy for us to know when he isn't feeling well. if he's snuggling with you, there's a trip to the doctor right around the corner.

this boy of mine, isn't really. he's a precious child of God, entrusted to me for what will seem like a breath. he's a gift to everyone he meets. and every day I learn a little more how to possess a little less.

happy seventh birthday, boy of mine.

august ADVENTure

2010-08-25T22:49:00.002-04:00

we've been busy tying up lots of loose ends in the home deco area this week, but I didn't want the 25th to slip by me without an ADVENTure update. Christmas is only four months away! can you feel the excitement and anticipation in my voice? here are my current completed projects:

Pattern: Dashing, by Cheryl Niamath

Yarn: Rowan Felted Tweed, color 147- Dragon (green); 1 ball

Needles: US 7 dpn

Mods: I made them a few rows shorter than the pattern.

********************

back in february, lisa sent me these for my birthday. I feel in love with them immediately and have used them on every trip away from home since. we travel... a lot. and these shoe bags were the perfect gift. in fact, I think they're the perfect gift for anyone on your list. there's something so special about putting your items into beautiful fabric bags instead of gallon ziploc bags, don't 'ya think?

with lisa's recommendation, I followed betz's tutorial for the bag and larissa's tutorial for the french seams. my fabric was purchased at joann's, and I used cording instead of the cotton twill tape. do you know how hard it is to find 100% cotton twill tape in black?? H A R D.

********************

seems like my cross stitch projects scream for me in the summer. during july and august I was able to stitch up these additional santas for my collection. I'll be sewing these into pillow ornaments just like the others. have I said how much I enjoy the small project size of these santas? perfect for toting around and stitching while I'm waiting for this or that. if you haven't picked up a hand stitching project in awhile, I encourage you to find a favorite and begin!

I'm anticipating a spectacular september, hope you are as well. blessings to you...

the collection:

finished gift count: 9

finished santa count: 5

finished home deco count: 1

words for wednesday

2010-08-25T03:00:00.000-04:00

you have to be BRAVE

with your life,

so that others can be

brave with theirs.

-Katherine Center

birthday girl

2010-08-24T00:19:00.006-04:00

happy birthday, mom!!

she's a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, co-worker, and volunteer.

she's fun, hardworking, and beautiful (inside and out).

she was my example to follow.

she's given so much of herself to others.

she has birthday position 3 out of 4 for august.

many blessings to you, mom!

I love you!!

february lady wrap up

2010-08-18T22:30:00.000-04:00

I'm thrilled to be finally posting this project! love it! love it! love it!

Pattern: February Lady Sweater

Yarn: Ella Rae Classic, Light Pink Heathered, 4 skeins

Size: Medium

Needles: US 8

Mods: Please visit ravelry for a few of the details of my project.

once. I. find. my. pattern (uuugh)...I will post the rest.

special thanks to mark for all the photos.

words for wednesday

2010-08-18T03:00:00.001-04:00

if you're lucky enough

to have something

that makes you different

from everybody else...

don't ever change.

-Taylor Swift

ruffled scarf wrap up

2010-08-17T00:01:00.003-04:00

(okay, a model I am not. just focus on the scarf.)
(special thanks to Lisa Q. for her photography.)

Pattern: Koigu Easy Ruffled Scarf; adapted for Knitting Off Broadway

Yarn: Koigu KPPPM yarn, dye code P534, 2 skeins purchased from Knitting Off Broadway

Needles: size 6 dpn

Mods: The pattern calls for 2 skeins of Koigu and 2 skeins of Rowan Kidsilk Haze. I only used the Koigu.

back in May during our annual vera bradley trip, we took some time to explore Ft. Wayne. thanks to my iPhone, we found Knitting Off Broadway. Jan and her shop make you want to sit and knit awhile, so stop in and visit her during your next trip to indiana.

I fell in love with this scarf at first sight! I was fascinated with the twisting look and had to knit it up! this was my first project using short rows, and once I sat and followed the directions, they were absolutely no problem.

neighborly wrap up

2010-08-16T01:10:00.002-04:00

a new school year is calling, and I'm filling with anticipation. I get a "wipe the chalkboard clean" kind of feeling as we approach september. I've got the need to: tie up loose ends; get things in order; check a few more things off my summer do list; and start the school year fresh. so it's in that spirit that I'm using august as a wrap up month. there will be a few projects I've been meaning to share, completing projects that have been on my mind all summer, and savoring the last bits of time with the boys. first up...a neighborly wrap up.

many months ago, I started and completed my grown up girl neighborly. special thanks to my friend larissa for not only the pattern, but the soft as can be chocolate and the noro that brought such anticipation and delight to the project. I loved everything about this project, and it fit my model just perfectly! thanks for modeling m.q.!!

Pattern: Grown Up Girl Neighborly, based on Jennifer Casa's Neighborly

Yarn: Brown Sheep Lamb's Pride Worsted, Chocolate Souffle- 2 skeins and Noro Kureyon, #156- 2 skeins,

Needles: US 8 circulars, US 8 double point needles for armholes, US 6 circular for neck ribbing

Size: Large

Mods: I wanted to lengthen the sweater a bit, so before starting the noro striping, I completed the neck ribbing and armholes to ensure I had enough chocolate yarn. I then added length to the body of the sweater with all my remaining lamb's pride yarn.

forty two

2010-08-09T20:57:00.009-04:00

for 161 days each year, he's married to an "older woman." then today he catches up with me. he had a few requests: egg bake and coffee cake for breakfast (check), chocolate cupcakes like these (check), and dinner at Baldo's (had to be carry out because of a sick little one, but check). I added a few extras along the way to make his day extra special:

he is my closest friend, my other half, the one I go to. he adores his children and genuinely enjoys spending time with them. he enjoys being at home. he's a great conversationalist and a talented writer. I am blessed to call him "mine." Happy Birthday Sweet!

thirteen

2010-08-06T00:36:00.009-04:00

it's really hard to believe he turned 13 today. his requests: chocolate cake with chocolate icing and chocolate jimmies (check), a morning at the track (check), an afternoon of nothing (check), and dinner at J. Alexander's (check, check).

handsome :: funny :: sensitive :: willing :: fun :: smart :: athletic :: loving :: loyal :: caring :: creative :: trustworthy :: independent...that's what he is.

Happy Birthday to my very favorite teenager!

july, where did you go?

2010-08-05T22:03:00.009-04:00

seems like just yesterday I was saying "goodbye june" and "hello july," and now I need to say "hello august." but I can't yet...because I'm playing catch up!

can time be slow as a turtle and fast as a rabbit at the same time? this summer has been balanced by a good bit of home time and cherished away time. and while time has passed both slowly and quickly, july seemed to speed by.

:: we finished baseball season with two championship games ::

:: passed level one and level two in swimming lessons ::

:: spent five days in chicago for national conference ::

:: reunited and met new family at our annual reunion ::

:: vacationed with our best friends the quicks ::

:: and met a friend I knit with ::

I've crafted all along the way. I'll show you my projects next week, for tomorrow we begin our month of birthday celebrations!

words for wednesday

2010-07-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

the next time your mind wanders,

follow it around for a while.

-Jessica Masterson

summer fun

2010-07-26T07:32:00.002-04:00

I'll be having some fun over at big picture scrapbooking in august.

I invite you to join in!

my ADVENTure continues...

2010-07-22T15:00:00.001-04:00

back in May when baseball season started, I started knitting dishcloths at practices and games. my season yielded 7 feather and fan dishcloths (my all-time favorite pattern), 4 winter wonder cloths, and one flouncy scarf (pictures to come soon). all of the cloths were knit with gift recipients in mind and are now ready to give at holiday time.

this year, whether holiday time or not, I hope you'll give your talents away!

Pattern: winter wonder cloths by kris knits

Yarn: sugar & creme, soft ecru; peaches & creme, light blue

Needles: US 3

Pattern: feather and fan dishcloth

Yarn: various sugar & creme cotton yarns

Needles: US 7

hello july...

2010-07-07T10:42:00.008-04:00

the weekend was slow and easy. some might even call it boring. other than a couple family activities, we each "puttered" around the house...sleeping, laundering, purging, knitting, reading, wii gaming it...you can probably guess which of those activities I was doing.

it was good.

:: flying flags::

:: favorite family spots ::

:: fireworks ::

:: being wide open ::

:: new things ::

:: favorite games ::

hello july. your pace is suiting me just fine.

goodbye june...

2010-07-01T22:31:00.018-04:00

amazing. I turned the page of my planner today and landed in july! we're half way through 2010. can you believe it?! summer has started.

goodbye june, you were good to us:

:: we played four baseball games a week ::

:: finished first and sixth grade ::

:: saw NPR's Prairie Home Companion live ::

:: honored dad ::

:: enjoyed family moments ::

:: celebrated a new couple ::

:: started swimming lessons ::

:: and learned new skills at football camp ::

I hope your favorite activities include your favorite people during these sunny summer days.

hello july.

42 before 43

2010-06-29T00:30:00.010-04:00

I love lists! some of you already know this about me. if you visit this blog or my flickr often enough, you're already familiar with pictures of my lists. and in January I started a "list journal." (nothing fancy...just that black journal shown on top below). the goal- a place to record on-going projects, new ideas, to-dos, and notes to myself, which had previously been written on pieces of paper or post-it notes (that sometimes couldn't be located when needed).

I know at the end of the year I'll enjoy looking back at my life in lists. and while I'm not adding pictures or other scrapbooking items, I consider this a scrapbook of my life in 2010.

the blessing- getting all that "stuff" out of my head and written down. when it's out and in some kind of order, somehow I don't think of it as much. and as I get older, I'm finding it harder to keep track of everything required to keep my family in the places they need to be at the times they need to be there and running our household with a sense of peace and calm. to that end, my most used page has columns for "go, do, buy, and call." what do you use to keep your life organized?

sharing a page from my journal...this idea from maine mama.

42 before 43:

update our will
send a special card to a friend each month
create an "all about me" scrapbook
smile more
photograph the glory of each season
serve on a new committee at church
fly a kite on the beach...again
wear flip flops as much as possible- had to put them away...10/30
sew a skirt
knit a sweater to go with #9
pay more attention to my fingernails-filed short, painted with pale pink
make a necklace
walk in a breast cancer benefit walk
read 12 books- 1. summer on blossom street by debbie macomber; 2. lift by kelly corrigan; 3. for parents only by feldhahn and rice; 4. having a mary spirit by joanna weaver; 5. christmas at harrington's; 6. the christmas bus; 7. a promise kept; 8. the christmas sweater; 9. the farm chick's christmas
make a new friend- hello stephenie and kristi!
spoil an old friend with love
avoid saying "yes" because I "have to"
start a collection of "K"s- collection count- 3
read to Connor before bed- mark has taken this one over for me.
start a ~~"note to self"~~ journal
loose 21 pounds
piece a Christmas quilt top
make my becky higgins' cross stitch sampler
knit for charity
visit Mickey Mouse
just "be" on the beach
get a pedicure to go with #8
let go of insecurity
go to more mudhens' games- only got to one.
spend a weekend alone my sister
meet up with blog friends- lisa, leslie
find ways to let go of fear
walk 400 miles
hold hands with mark
take more photos of myself
encourage play
memorize six new scripture verses
let the boys be the first to let go of a hug
honor mark with my words and actions
let go of criticism
say thank you more
be happy on my birthday, whether this list is complete or not

I'm trying to cherish each day and focus on the little blessings I've been given...for when I look back these "little" things will be the big things.

pressed

2010-06-16T23:20:00.000-04:00

(a self portrait from cer's memory book)

I'm feeling a bit pressed for time this week.

last week of school- enough said.

one memory book luncheon, one field day, one slurpie walk, four baseball games, five exams, year-end gifts, many thank you notes, a haircut, three father's day gifts, and a weekend road trip to pack for makes me a very pressed mama. I'll be back when summer has started for us.

words for wednesday

2010-06-16T06:00:00.001-04:00

If I did everything in my mind,

you'd see my dust.

- B. Allen

hello nineteen.

2010-06-08T22:25:00.005-04:00

a white dress, a black tuxedo, six bridesmaids, six groomsmen, four parents, three grandparents...nineteen years ago my dad walked me down a really long aisle and left me standing beside mark. since that day, he's been my loving and loyal husband. I couldn't ask for or imagine anyone better for me. our road together has had many hills, valleys, turns, travels, joys, and sorrows, but we have been blessed. I love you, sweet. hello nineteen.

mark your calendar...

2010-06-03T10:03:00.004-04:00

June 4, 2010

photo by Lisa Quick

this great blog beat me to it... and in a much fancier announcement kind of way. go visit.

words for wednesday

2010-05-26T13:08:00.003-04:00

awww, a hot day and playing baseball,

there's nothing better, right Spencer?

- C. R.

felt fun

2010-05-24T23:43:00.009-04:00

after reading the felt series over here, I had to join in on the fun. Sunday afternoon was the perfect time because:

~the boys were going to baseball practice

~it was bright and sunny with a light breeze- perfect for outdoor crafting

~I had all the supplies necessary

~I wanted to have some fun!

while I was creating, I realized I'm just a little girl in an adult body. if you have daughters, granddaughters, or nieces you can craft with, I can't recommend these projects enough. the number of applications is limitless. I can see felt flowers and pinwheels on everything!

Project Notes:

*I followed the directions given step by step.

*I made roses with the store brand (.29) sheets as well as felted wool from my stash. the store sheets were much thinner, easier to roll, and finished with more detail than the felted wool.

*I made all my roses and pinwheels with pin backs.

press play

2010-05-20T22:12:00.011-04:00

remember when we played music using a boom box? one that had pause, play, fast forward, rewind, and record buttons? when kris' health started to quickly deteriorate three months ago, I pressed pause on my own life and became very present in hers. I felt like I was honoring her life in making that choice.

it wasn't obvious to me at the time, but on Monday I pressed play in my own life again...in the best way I know how.

I gave myself the gift of a day. a day to create, to celebrate special friends, to complete a project. oh, how good it felt to get back into my life again.

words for wednesday

2010-05-19T14:49:00.001-04:00

everyone's soul weighs the same.

-Princess Diana

the gift of time

2010-05-17T20:50:00.035-04:00

my sister gave me the most wonderful gift for my birthday this year...the gift of time. she and mark worked together to arrange a solo road trip for me to spend time with her. a time where I was required to make all the decisions about what we would do (the expectation being to do all my favorite things). here are a few bits and pieces of our time together.

WE...{exercised}

{shopped- she bought two.}

{ate at fun restaurants}

{visited the knit shop and cross stitch shop}

{wandered around an art fair}

...where we met:{a wonderful photographer}

{a book store owner}

and {a retired couple crafting jewelry from silverware}

when we happened onto the art fair, we only had thirty minutes until closing- not enough time to see the whole show but only glance through closing tents. we saw so many wonderful booths we decided a come back trip was needed Sunday afternoon.

during our second trip, we met Bob (the creator) and Joan (the seller) of Silver "Wear" jewelry. I imagine they were a 70+ age couple. he would sell and share facts about his craft; she would quickly fill each slot with new product as pieces were sold. and I heard "I have a bracelet to match, would you like to see it?" as she serviced customers.

kathy began trying on rings then added a matching bracelet...sold! she was smiling from ear to ear with her new purchase. on our second trip around, I began trying on the same jewelry. I kept going back to the same ring I had encouraged my sister to buy...you may have guessed it- sold! I purchased the same set. it will always be a physical remembrance of the special weekend we shared together.

we weren't going to go to Delaware. we were going home to eat leftovers. I'm so thankful for the turn in the road and all the doors that were opened for us at the art fair. thanks for the wonderful gift and the treasured memories, kathy! I love you!

*****

just kidding about the horse purchase...we were just having some fun!