Working out the little things....

**UPDATE** I have to get this fixed, I just tried to post photos of some crochet items I've made, and still, this same message.

Ok, still using the pc that I've had, with birthdays Christmas and baby, I can't buy a new pc or lap top just yet. This one has been fixed, but there is 1 thing not working, everything else is working as if it is new. When I click a link on any page, or links at the ville to see others work, or pattern, (even my own blog link in my siggy) I get this message that I do not know how to fix. it says ....

"The requested look up key was not found in any active activation context."

Can't even use my print or preview in my toolbar, says the same message. I spent over an hour on the phone with tech support, (after it was fixed) and all they could tell me was to download the new internet explorer 7 or the mozilla fire fox browser, but when I get to the end of the process, guess what.... Same message. So I am still able to use my pc and everything is working great, I just can't follow some links, some work, some don't, and this message is not one I'm familiar with, so any ideas on how to fix this are greatly appreciated. Other wise, I will just wait till after Christmas to buy a new puter. So, still working, still here, just not able to follow some links.

Hey!!!!!

I have been away for awhile due to pc trouble...eeek! Anywho, I am hoping to be set up soon. A few quick things, there have been inquiries on a few of my posted projects and I will get to answer them when I'm set up. Thank you so very much Amy S for everything you sent me in the Summer Round of Secret Pal, and Tracey, I hope you enjoyed everything I sent you. Loopy, I did receive your card, thank you so much! It was a joy to hear from you. I've missed you all so much! and would have been back sooner, but we are getting ready for our sweet little one, so we have had other expences recently. Let's see, oh...I was published in the Pattern A Day Calander, twice! Yeah! Praise Jesus, and go check it out! I know I'm forgeting something, and I'm sorry for neglecting this blog, but I will catch back up very soon, here and at the Ville. I have some great projects to hopefully show soon! Have a beautifully blessed weekend and God Bless!

Tea Pot with Heart?

Look~y what I found at a local flea market for $3!!! and it has a Heart even! YAY!!!

Now for the even better news....This sweet little pink tea cozy with the most beautiful Queen Elizabeth Roses for buttons, was made by my SP from the Spring Round, Anna. Who I can't thank enough by the way! Isn't it just perfect! My 7 yo. Jake, said, " Wow Mama, that tea cozy is pretty!"

Pretty things.....

I do not know what this is, it is growing along the edge by the forest. (doesn't forest sound much better then "woods") I just love it. There are yellow Irises growing here too. This is a bit of Ivy growing up the front porch.
Oh, how much do I love this plant. We have 2, and they attract butterflies. We always have a garden full of butterflies. The flowers are white, pink, and a dark pink. They are long and trumpet shaped, they reach about 10 feet high. This branch was low to the ground, the flowers bloom on top of the branches.

Aren't these flowers beautiful? They are growing all around my yard. Our pecan trees went through a hard frost, but they have bloomed back out. Praise the Lord! Hoping they will produce pecans this fall. They didn't last year, but I've been told they produce every other year, so we shall see. The one right behind my house is huge, it is sooo tall, you could stack my house on top of itself 3 times and the pecan tree would still be taller than that. I've tried to get a full photo, but you have to be so far away from it, you loose perspective. When it does have pecans, right before they fall, these massive branches touch the ground under the weight. A lovely sight. When it produces, everyone knows what they are getting for Christmas.

50 Book Challenge in 1 Year.

I've decided to do the 50 Book Challenge in a year too. A little late, but here are the first 3 I'm reading now.

1. God's Promises for Mothers
2. At Home in Mitford
3. Anne of Green Gables

Summer...

It seems summer is here in the south already! Yay! We had fresh tomatoes and cucumbers today along with lunch. I will post a photo later of the delicious produce. (when I get some more! It doesn't last long here) I think tomatoes and cucumbers are in a food category all their own. Also I have 2 tomatoe plants started, one is a cherry tomatoe. As kids we called them tommy toes. Silly huh?

Crocheting away on the sweet little thing I'm testing for Anna. I believe it will be done by the end of this week. I had to frog the first row of the scallop. Eeekkk. I don't like to frog. Anywho, it is soooooooo sweet! I just hope Maddi isn't to chunky to fit into it. Also deciding what to make for my SP.

The song I posted yesterday may have offended some, I do understand it is a little blunt. However, the message is true of any Christian, I want to be more like Jesus. I pray for His grace, forgiveness, and help, because with out Him, who knows where I'd be today. Enjoy this wonderfully warm day, a gift from God.

Thought Provoking Song...

This song, I heard on the radio a good while ago, then again today, and it has such a profound message. Just read and see...If you've heard it, you know what I mean. Only 1 thing, in my church, Jesus would be welcomed, open arms falling at His feet. The singer is Todd Agnew....

Lyrics:
"Which Jesus do you follow?
Which Jesus do you serve?
If Ephesians says to imitate Christ
Then why do you look so much like the world?

Cause my Jesus bled and died
He spent His time with thieves and liars
He loved the poor and accosted the arrogant
So which one do you want to be?
Blessed are the poor in spirit
Or do we pray to be blessed with the wealth of this land
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst for righteousness
Or do we ache for another taste of this world of shifting sand

Cause my Jesus bled and died for my sins
He spent His time with thieves and sinners and liars
He loved the poor and accosted the rich
So which one do you want to be?
Who is this that you follow
This picture of the American dream
If Jesus was here would you walk right by on the other side or fall down and worship at His holy feet

Pretty blue eyes and curly brown hair and a clear complexion
Is how you see Him as He dies for Your sins
But the Word says He was battered and scarred
Or did you miss that part
Sometimes I doubt we'd recognize Him

Cause my Jesus bled and died
He spent His time with thieves and the least of these
He loved the poor and accosted the comfortable
So which one do you want to be?
Cause my Jesus would never be accepted in my church
The blood and dirt on His feet would stain the carpet
But He reaches for the hurting and despised the proud
I think He'd prefer Beale St. to the stained glass crowd

And I know that He can hear me if I cry out loud
I want to be like my Jesus!
I want to be like my Jesus!

So very powerful. I am challenged and am challenging everyone, be more charitable, not because of the good you receive, but because that's what Jesus did. He went out of His way to save and help us all. Surely we can continue stepping out of our comfort zones and help those in need. There are so many people out there who are hurting, alone, on drugs, homeless, pregnant an in trouble, sick, elderly, there is a place for everyone to help. Please go out and find what you can do, and then do it well. Do it in Jesus' name. What good is it if you don't tell them about Jesus? I promise, if you meet some of their needs, they may, and some will listen. They may not respond the way you want, but they will have heard that Jesus loves them, and what He did for them, and just how special they are, because Jesus died for them to have the chance to go to Heaven. Think about it, the Son of God, the King of kings, loves you, us all. That's amazing! Tell them who Jesus is, share Him with them. Pick up a few Bibles, and give them out to whom ever God lays on your heart to help. Read the story of the Good Samaritan, it is soooo much more than a Sunday school lesson for children. We need to be a Samaritian every day with the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.

Thank You Lord for a fresh inspiration and focus.

Hope you have an absolutely Beautiful time serving the Lord by helping those in need.

This is a tote bag I made yesterday for my Secret Sister at church. It has a thread granny square for the front pocket. It is fully lined in the same fabric, and has grosgrain ribbon for the handles. It's to carry her Bible and any other papers she needs for church. It's about 15" long and 10" bottom to top. Hope she likes it.

I'm also very excited, I'm getting the rest of the thread I need tomorrow to finish the sweet little thing I'm testing for Lullabies and Lace. I feel like I've had withdrawls not being able to work on it for the past week. We've had other financial needs this past little while. Hope you have a beautifully blessed weekend!

Dress for Maddi

~~I also made a few of these for the pregnance center, you can see them in the latest posts about the Cherokee Pregnancy Center.~~

This is for baby Madison. She is the daughter of a friend at church. Since I ran out of thread for the sweet little dress I'm testing to give her as a gift, I made this yesterday. The top is crocheted and has a shell border. The bottom is red with tiny white polka dots. Not my usual colors, but very cute! Ever since seeing this idea on the Carol Duval show, I have loved it. Here's a link to the original idea, I didn't do the shell pattern, I just did dc back and forth, it was quicker.

http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/cr_needlework_crochet/article/0,,HGTV_3260_2820290,00.html

I also made a few of these and posted them in the latest post for the Cherokee Pregnancy Center. I did a flying V st on those. I used a crochet nylon. Bought from Wal Mart, it is about $3.49 a roll, and is very shiny. It almost glows. Can't wait to see her in it. It has an empire waist, so the bottom will be huge like a mushroom top when she is sitting up. I think those are just the cutest!

National Day of Prayer

Today is the National Day of Prayer. So let's join together in Jesus name and pray for our children, their schools, our blessed and great nation, President and it's leaders. Our military, our family and friends. The bible says in 1st. Thessalonians 5:16...Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. So let's have an attitude of prayer all day. You know, we can pray all day and still go about our daily business...having special prayer time, and in our thoughts as we are doing things. If someone is on your mind, say or think a prayer for the Lord to meet their needs. Or for the hurting and lonely, or for the family whose son is away at war, or for the families of those from the Virginia tragedy. We can always be mindful that if God places someone or some situation on our hearts and mind, there is a reason. Pray for them. We will never grow in our walk with the Lord if we do not pray to Him and speak to Him on a daily basis. Something I've been convicted of just this morning. Pastor Charles Stanley is a man of God, and I encourage you to listen to him on the radio, tv, net, however you can. Enjoy this National Day of Prayer, and remember, "Pray without ceasing!" 1 Thess. 5:17

Lace Heart.....

Isn't this neat? I completely forgot about this book. It is an Annie Potter bok called Fantastic Lace Ornaments. Originally I ordered it b/c there was this really neat ornament my husband actually liked. After receiving a Snowflake book in my reveal package ** I remembered having this. Soooo, I think I will make a few to put on hand made cards...though I just can't bare the thought of someone throwing the cards away eventually. Must send them to crocheters! Enjoy!!!! Jesus loves you, have a beautiful weekend!!!!

(I haven't blocked it yet so it may look a little sideways)

Up~Coming Events...

We are hoping to travel the short distance to Blowing Rock NC. in the next few weeks for a mini vacation. Also to check out the location. In September, they will be having the Mitford Series festival. It is also just a few days away from my husband's birthday, So we are hoping to go for the weekend to the festival. Anywho, Starting May 4, they will be running their historic locamotive. It is on the national registry of historic places/things. http://www.tweetsie.com/park_attractions/ One time I saw something about Thomas the Train will be on the front (?), and I know the boys would love to ride it then. http://www.blowingrockvacations.com/attractions.html We will also pan for gold, sight see, hopefully look off the beaten path and find some thrift stores. I would just love to nab a few vintage finds, doilies or thread. I am hoping to make a skirt to wear. I saw some really pretty ones on a vintage site, I think it was My Vintage Home, I just loved them. So I will be looking for some white fabric with some sort of motif on it that would make a sweet skirt. Of course it would have to be lined, also on a DIY show, they showed how to make this circle wrap skirt, but it had the overall shape of a fifties skirt, with a modern yet very lady like flair, I may not attempt this yet, but maby one day. And a tote bag, I may have to sew one of these too. Anyhow, I can barely wait to go to Blowing Rock to spend the day, or maby the weekend. There will be so many fun things to do. Spending time with my husband and my boys. Just a fantabulous time! Praise the Lord!

I am working on a sweet little pattern, actually testing it, so I can't post anything about it, but that will be taking up most of my crocheting time. Oh, and I joined the Butterfly Bag CAL at the ville, I think it will be beautiful. All the other bags designed by this lady are amazing. They have a vintage flair too. I will post back with that link soon. Have a lovely afternoon! God Bless!

Praise the Lord!

Yay! I'm soooo happy I could bust! My son, who is in 1st grade, was published in a County wide, (21 total schools elem. - high) Young Writer's Gala!!!!! Yay! Go Jacob!!! Woohoo!!! He wrote a short story and his teacher submitted it, He is 1 of only 8 from his school to make the book, and he received an award, first place school winner! Yayayayayayayay! His story was about an army helicopter that landed in our yard. In his story he said he liked army tanks, he liked armed forces, and he liked soldiers. He is a proud American! Praise God! WooHoo!!!!!

After all this excitement, nothing can compete. I waited to post this, b/c Anna had to receive it first, I just fell in love with this pattern, and since she loves tea so much, I had to make it for her. Here's a photo. The pattern is available for purchase thru Crochet Memories. Just click the link on my side bar, ( Not my site, but I love her patterns! she does wonderful work!) and click patterns by category at the bottom, then click kitchen magic.

20 Things I love!

1. English Breakfast Tea
2. Pic~niks with my family
3. Purple Ink Pens
4. Crochet Thread
5. My Journal I'm writing to my boys.
6. Gardenia Candles
7. Queen Elizabeth Roses and Daisies
8. The Colors Pink, Brown, White, Cream, Sage
9. Marigolds (my mom planted these when I was a little girl, and we harvested the seeds for the next year)
10. Doilies from Friends
11. Fried Green Tomatoes (the actual food)
12. Fresh garden tomatoes
13. Movie Sweet Home Alabama
14. Gone With The Wind...need I say more
15. Delicate Crochet Bookmarks
16. Tote bags
17. Tea Pots
18. Vintage finds
19. Unusual Tea Cups and Saucers
20. Plumeria Hand Creme

*~* Thrift Store Finds *~*

First things first, I needed round handles for my fat bottom, I love the other handles, and figured out how to make them work, I just wanted some round handles to make more as gifts. Found them at Hobby Lobby. They had 4 pairs in the entire store, all the bamboo look, which I love. So then, my sweet husband and I went into 2 different thrift stores, and I found these...Tea Pots! One in each store. The 1 serving, was marked with the original sticker for $17.99, and the thrift store sticker said $3.50, the lid is missing, but this one is just for looks, and the Larger one, $4, was usable, but when I went to wash it to set out, the glaze started cracking, so it is for looks too. Anyhow, I just love them! This is my new collection, the friend I made, whom I posted about a few posts ago, her kitchen cabinets are down about 18" from the ceiling, and she has them covered with tea pots and ivy. It is beautiful. Maby she will let me take a photo to post. Anywho, Enjoy the photos, oh, and my first attempt with # 80 thread, and a size 15 hook. Thank you Lady Anna!

(hopefully all the photos will post)

Oh My Lady Anna!!!!!

You must have been a fly on the wall to understand the grace and thoughtfulness behind every gift here. Look thru the photos and see. Anna has created a novel setting for me. Thank you Anna, truely, from my heart! You had already out done yourself, and now with this most special package...your generosity is unmatched! You are so very kind and thoughtful!

I can get cozy in my sweet shawl, sipping any number of heavenly delicious teas (tasting the English tea first), snacking on divine chololate, reading Teacups full of Treasures, Mitford series or an Anne novel, all while listening to the Celtic Woman, which I just recently took off my "wish list" because I thought it may be to expensive.....Crocheting a doily in thread, just about any size...80 perhaps? With, yes, dare I say a hook size 15 or 16...Oh Joy!!!!! Is it a sin to be this happy? lol. My tea will stay warm in the sweetest tea cozy, one of Anna's own designs, and it has the most darling little rose buttons, yes, they do look like Queen Elizabeth Roses...also my favorite, Anna does know me very well. Smelling potpourri of Morning Dew, there is also coffee, which I can not wait to try, stickers, Ferrero Rocher, a calander, Leisure Arts Lacy Snowflakes, beautiful blue beaded purse handle, Bernat baby coordinates yarn in 3 colors, an asortment of thread, All new sizes to me, and my fingers are itching to try.

Now, my goodies, made by Anna, the tea cozy described earlier, the most beautiful shawl. I am utterly stunned by this, in pink, it is heavenly! This purse, I must admit...I was going to buy the pattern to make one for me, I wanted to work out the fat bottom bag first (the Fat Bottom is cute, but there is no comparison to Anna's bag, hers is so charming, reminiscent of Ladys' in days gone by), Anna...how did you know I loved this purse? This is also one of Anna's designs, and it is in brown and pink, one of my most favorite color combinations.. Doilies.....they are added to my 37 Doily Challenge...so beautiful! The small one is maby for my tea cup and saucer as a coaster, the detail in it is lovely! The pink scarf is made of the most unusual fibers, I cherish this scarf...I'm wearing it now, I just can't bare to take it off yet! Anna, Thank you is simply not enough...I must invent a new word that means thank you. After all this description, I am speachless, it amazes me at your attention to detail, there isn't anything in here that wasn't thought about. I do love the Blue Moon beads, they are more exquisite than I would have imagined. The purse, I am wearing tomorrow with a new pair of heels I purchased a few weeks ago, the same color, I just didn't have a bag to match..Thank you! I hope I haven't left anythig out, This was my first exchange, and Anna choose me, this was simply the best exchange I believe I could have ever participated in, both my known and my unknown have become dear friends of mine...I have some really big shoes to fill next time..lol...Thank you again Anna! Now, off to send you a thank you...

***Please excuse the blurriness of my photos, I really do need to buy a new camera...***

Oh no, What's a girl to do...?

Finally, I've finished my second Fat Bottom Bag, (I ran out of yarn for the first one, so it isn't finished) I have searched all over for handles, and sadly, I can not find them. I do so love these handles though. They are adorable. The only place I did not look is Hobby Lobby, hubby was having a hissy this morning and did not want to stop for me. Anyhow, I am using a white fabric, with tiny pink roses on it for the lining. Or maby navy with white polka dots. I have not decided on a flower yet, I have this Gerber Daisy, it is cream, however, a pink rose would be beautiful. So, on to my problem, Where can I find the correct handles...? I have to make these handles work, and I have an idea. I'll post back when I have the bag all finished. I have another idea to make this same type of bag, just with a different stitch, and increasing in a different area. Hhmmm, wouldn't you like to know..lol..I will post it too, as soon as it is finished. Enjoy your beautiful afternoon!

Cherokee Pregnancy Center donatins

There are more, this is just what I took photos of tonight. There are 3 blankets, the Granny Square one I love. The pink one has a mini Crinoline Lady in the corner, and the blue one is edged with a yarn from Lady Anna. ~Thank You Miss Lady Secret!~ The 2 crochet and fabric dresses are inspired by an idea on the Carol Duval show a few years ago. I believe the designer is Candy Jensen..I'll have to look that up and see. The lavender dress is a pattern on~line, I just can't seem to remember which one, didn't follow it all the way either...I kinda like to add my own special touches. lol. Anyhow, there are hats, and bonnets, and I'm happy to say, I designed these bonnets, I did work 2 from a pattern after I made some of my own. The little bag is fleece, it has grograin ribbon for the handles, I sewed this little tote on my new sewing machine, a gift from my mother for my birthday! Yay! Thanks Mama! ;) There will be a matching blanket, just as soon as I can figure out how I want to edge it. Anyhow, I've rattled on, Enjoy the photos. These items will be delivered to the Center next week.

Just thoughts....

For sometime, I have been considering school, work, and my life. I've been praying, and praying, and I simply adore being at home taking care of my children, my husband, and our home. This also allows me time to do charity work and church work too. Which I really love. The thing that keeps coming to mind is to start an on~line business, to sell some of the patterns I make on a regular basis. (my original patterns) I just don't know how to get started, I really would like to have my own .com site, instead of just Etsy, please don't misunderstand, Etsy is great, I personally would just love to have my own site. I also have a name that just came to me tonight. I was jotting down ideas, and this name just came right off my pen. Divine intervention.....? I'm guessing I would mail the patterns same day or next day, because I do not know how to make them available for download. See, I'm in a mess, I just do not know the first thing about setting up, monetary exchange, ect... Any ideas or thoughts are welcome.

I'm borrowing a word from Lady Anna today,

Hope you have a Delightful evening!

Thank You Catheryn!!

Today I received a thank you package from Catheryn. I was her Secret Pal. All the items are lovely! I just love the Angel, and the hearts, the bookmarks, and the thread...Yay!! and the Pinneapple Doily pattern book, I can't wait to get started on one. Thank you so very much Catheryn! I loved being your SP, how neat is it that I live in your home town? Devine intervention! Praise Jesus! I am adding the hearts, which I love and the Angel to my 37 Doily challenge, since you made them for me. Thank you again for being so thoughtful!

Pray, Read, then Listen...

1 Corinthians 15:50-58

50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Easter Rolls

I usually don't give away old family recipes, but this is special, and just in time for Easter. The main recipe was from my husbands mother. The new addition to this recipe is an idea from a friends aunt, who makes these for family gatherings and special occasions. So for those of you who like to bake...


Yeast Rolls
2 pkgs. yeast
1 cup warm water
1 cup milk, scalded
1 cup butter
2/3 cup of sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 eggs, beaten
8 cups sifted plain flour
* Large Marshmallows*

Sprinkle yeast into warm water. Let stand a few minutes. Pour hot milk over butter, sugar, salt and cool to luke warm. (be sure it is cool before proceding) Add yeast/water mixture, eggs and half of flour. Beat well. Add enough flour to make a dough that will not stick to bowl. Turn out on lightly floured board (counter) and knead lightly. Put in an oiled bowl, cover and let rise until doubled. Punch down and turn out on a board (counter) Take enough dough for 1 roll and roll it out flat, cover 1 large marshmallow, closing it on all sides, and put seam on bottom. Continue untill dough is finished. Bake @ 425 for 20 minutes, brush with butter right away. Don't press down on them, because the marshmallow will have melted away, leaving an empty tomb.

Enjoy your "Empty Tombs" and if you serve these at a party, or for a special dinner with friends, maby you will have a *new* way to witness to some friends. Enjoy!

Yay!!!

Catheryn has received her tea set doily! So now I can post a photo! It is also my first doily in the doily challenge. You can find the pattern for sale at Crochet Memories, just click the button to the right, it is in patterns by category at the bottom of the page, in home furnishings (I think) and doilies. I did change the spout a little bit, I wanted it to be a little more lacy looking.

It is actually white and burgandy.

New Friend, thread and doilies...

This past Saturday, the Lord blessed me with a new friend! Yay! She and I have spent the past few days together, and our children play. She is so sweet and such a refreshingly cheerful lady. She takes time to visit, and enjoys company. It's like we've known each other for ages.

My local Wally World has finished deleting their yarn and thread. I went this morning to buy some pink size #10 and it was all gone. Now I will have to drive into the next city to buy my crochet items. I really wanted some pink thread today too. I wanted to make a pink doily. Ok, I will quit whinning now. hahaha

Doilies.....Yes, I have one to post, but I must wait a day or two...Maby I shall read some this evening, instead of crocheting the night away!

Secret Pal Fairy...

I've finished and mailed my "Reveal" package to Catheryn. I was going to post the photo here and let her guess, but she is clever and has guessed my true identity. I'm so glad she did, it has been fun to talk to her as myself. So I will post it after she receives it. I'm soooo happy about this! It is wonderful! I will be on pins and needles until I know she has received this special little thingy! It is full of paper to help hold the shape, and pins to keep it in place.

37 Doilies....

I believe I to will take the 37 Doily challenge! I saw this on Anna's Lullabies and Lace blog. Thank You Anna! She has done some amazing pieces. It will be fun...especially since I have yet to make one for myself!

"I suppose it would be impossible to keep house with only 36 doilies."

~Anne of Green Gables~

This one is a pattern for purchase at Crochet Memories. It is done in size 20 thread.

This is a Crinoline Lady Doily. It's a vintage pattern, I made a while ago, and had put it away. Imagine my suprise when I found it! She is holding a fan up to her face. There are 2 Ladies in this doily.

These next three are from Lady Anna! Thank you so very much Anna. They are beautiful, and I cherish them. They are my personality, I love the roses, and the hearts, and the tiny one too! Thank you again, Miss Lady Secret!

This Sweet Angel and the next 3 Hearts are from Catheryn for me, and I've added them because thay are so beautiful, and they are adorning my home now. Thank You Catheryn.

I made this for Catheryn, it was in her "Reveal" package.

Miss Lady Secret...

Ta~Da!.....Is the Lovely, adorable, thoughtful, generous, kind, absolutely devine, Lady Anna! Lavelle26! I have enjoyed this amazing experience. You have been so unbelieveably thoughtful. I cherish our "unknown" time, and am looking forward to becoming even better friends! We are kindred spirits as you say. We share a love of all things Anne Of Green Gables, herbal tea's, beautiful thread crochet, chocolate, dainty and most of all.....the very essence of being a Lady. I simply adore you Miss~Not~So~Secret~Lady~Secret!

Lady Secret is Enchantment!

There was special thought behind every single item! The thoughts are so special and the gifts are too! The books and the bookmark are just the best! and the Chai Spice Tea..a more pleasurable flavor I think I have never tasted! I simple adore you Miss Lady! I can barely wait to discern the clues and guess who you are! I forgot to add in my original post at the ville, the patterns and the patons are perfect too!

Simply Happy!...My thoughts....

I have so many things to be thankful, humbled, and happy about! I've been asked to tell the Easter Story to the pre-schoolers at our Easter Egg~Stravaganza. Wow! and I am making this amazing doily, I don't usually make doilies, I don't know why, I adore them, so It's odd that I haven't made many, well it's not exactly a doily, you will see as soon as I finish it. It is from Crochet Memories, and I will post it here, and then when my Secret Pal receives it in the mail the last week of our Secret Pal swap, if she's been reading my blog, she will know who I am! Yay! If not, then she will have some super sleuthing to do.

I love photos of crochet almost as much as I love to crochet. It is an heirloom artform, and I simple cherish it. If things could be my way, we would still wear beautiful lacy gowns, with parasols and lace gloves. My mother in law wore lace gloves to her wedding. She had my husband later in her life, her oldest had already left home by the time she had him. He even has an old fashioned name! Walter! lol, However, we do have another name for him on a daily basis, as he doesn't like to be called by his given name. She had the most elegant and Victorian thread crochet hats and butterflies and doilies. Of course she made all these things before I met her. She used to have this hat on her dresser, it was cream with burgandy ribbon with baby's breath, and it stood on a wooden hat form.

I am in~love with the entire idea of being a Lady. It is just perfect that my Secret Pal's name is Lady!

Later in her life, my grand mother used to have a garden fit for an english queen, it was filled with large rose bushes that reached the roof of her home, Queen Elizabeth roses, and large white ones, even wild roses, hibiscus , 4 0'clocks, enormous elephant ears...it was devine. I love to day dream......I could lazily dream the day away, with a cup of tea, by the pond, soaking in the warm sunshine and cool breeze...

There I go again, turning a simple thought into a novel....

If you are reading this, I hope you take the time to feel the sun kiss your skin and listen to the birds singing and I hope you have an absolutely beautiful afternoon.....

Crinoline Lady

I just love her! Isn't she a doll? I truely am thankful to Jesus for the art of Crochet, I enjoy it soooo much! She is from an archive from the potholderlady's site. You can find the link on stargazers crochet website. I believe it is actually a vintage pattern. Anyhow....Here she is!

Crinoline Lady CAL

YAY! I'm hosting a Crinoline Lady CAL at the Ville! Thank you Yarnlover66 for the idea and for Co~Hosting it with me! I'm really excited about this! It will be so much fun! Thank You Lavelle26 for the lovely, beautiful and amazing button too! I believe this CAL will last quite awhile!

YAY! Thank You Miss Lady Secret!

Thank You Lady!!! This is beautiful! I just love everything! Especially the Crinoline Lady! In # 50 thread no less! She is just devine! I love her, she will be framed and hung on the wall, now...which wall is the lucky wall.....hhhmmmmm

Thread Baby Dress

Yay!! My Annies Attic booklet Frilly Frocks came yesterday! Here is my progress so far. It is done in # 10 thread with a # 7 hook. I'll post more photos as I progress. They are for babies.

My kitty wanted in the photo, so I took another one of her. Isn't she georgous! The porch could use a coat of paint, but we have an old farm house in the country, and the fresh air, green grass and flowers are amazing! The house has a lot of charm too!

Crinoline Lady....

I just love Crinolines!!!! This pattern is from www.crochetmemories.com under the Doll Menu. The pattern is beautifully written and easy to read! Yay!! Thanks for looking.

Thank You Lady Secret!!!

Thank you Sweet Jesus! My PC is working! Yay!

Thank You Miss Lady Secret! I received some goodies today! 5 lovely dish cloths, and 1 will not be used b/c it simply is devine! They all are, some great recipes, a note and handmade Birthday card! YAY! 3 Hershey's bars..and one is dark mmmmmmm.......and Earl Grey Tea! Which the scent is driving me absolutely batty, I simply must have some now! So Here's the photo of my sweet goodies! Thank you again Miss Lady! You are such a thoughtful, sweet and special blessing! I know you are putting thought behind every single card, e-mail, package, question and you are sending me something more than that, your friendship! Thank you very much!

Roses..

Here is what real roses look like...

Here is a rose I made with ribbon...(sorry it's blurry, I was holding the camera and the rose)

Thank You Miss Lady Secret! I was so very happy and excited to find my inbox filled with Happy Birthday E-cards and flowers! Yay Me!! I can barely wait to find out who you are! Thank You!!! My little boy and I especially loved the Hoops and Yoyo card, he had me replay it about 10 times, I have it saved, so he can see it again...he absolutely flipped over this one! Which made me crack up even more! Thank you!

Cute Ruffly Baby Hat...

Even DH loved this one! It is a preemie pattern I have, (it doesn't have the ruffle brim, it is just a straight side hat) don't know where it came from, Thank the Lord I stumbled across it when I was cleaning out my super huge overstuffed crochet pattern folder! I added the ruffly brim and DH said to add the flower. It's basically just a simple hat, (I used a G hook instead of the D it called for, which made it a new born size) then I added 2dc in each st around, then dc, ch1 in each dc around, then edged it in a contrasting color. I think it defines the flowing ruffle shape. The flower is tacked on, it is a basic chain flower. Enjoy!

Old-Fashioned Bonnets...

I believe I was moved with compassion for the hurting yesterday. If you are reading this, I hope you are having a beautiful day!

Here are the bonnets I have finished for the center so far. They don't really glow, hehe, the flash was just bright.

Cherokee Pregnancy Center...

Friday I dropped off some baby items to the pregnancy center, some "creative infant hats" the ones I posted earlier and a few others and a few blankets. I took a fleece blanket that was edged in a white # 3 thread scallop with an Irish Rose appliqued onto it and also a Crinoline Lady done in # 10 thread, the front desk lady was so excited, she took it and me into the back office to show the other workers, who caused such a commotion, that another lady came out of her office to see. It was really neat! Praise Jesus! I am in no way tooting my own horn, I don't believe in that, I'm just really excited that the items are appreciated! YAY! So now, I'm working on old fashioned baby bonnets. I saw a few in a mag. photo and am kinda winging it. The Caron SS in off white really looks vintage! WOW! I may write a pattern up, but all the items I made for them were 1 of a kind, and each was really special. They are a crisis pregnancy center, and Christian ladies doing it to give those in need another option...keeping their sweet little baby. So I definately believe in quality over quantity, I really want them to feel special and in some small way, let them know there is hope. The last lady who came out of her office had just came back from Bangeladesh (? spelling) from a missions trip and gave me one of their ornaments that they hand sew over there, it is a bangle (bracelet) with fabric inside and a 4 point star embroidered in it. It was the sweetest thing, they sell 35 for $1. That humbled me. Just to make money for their families, who knows if they can even read a bible freely or not? Something we, I take for granted. I can read my bible, and come and go as I please, such an ordinary every day thing, yet truely such a special blessing. Ok, I know I've went off topic a bit, but it is a beautiful thing to think and wonder and see how connected we all are, even if it seems like we are in our own little corner, the kindness we show, the Love of Jesus that freely flows can truely reach everyone, if only we humble ourselves, and serve, trust, and obey with a cheerful heart. I wish I could fathom how much Jesus loves me, how much He loves all of us. If we only humble ourselves and trust Him. It is nothing special we've done, but His free gift, His grace to us. Without Jesus, I can do and am nothing. I am thankful for every opportunity to serve, and help others. Because I know Jesus has helped me. I wish I could just open my arms and hug the world and tell them how special they are because Jesus loves and died on a cross for them. If people would only stop for a minute and see. If you are reading this and don't know Jesus, He does love you. Pick up a Bible and begin reading the book of Matthew and read about Him, and what He did for you. He is the Son of God, He did Die on a cross, after 3 days He did raise up alive and defeated death, and is now in Heaven, waiting for us, if we will only understand that sin is in the world, we are all guilty of that. Have you ever told a lie or stole something, or took the Lord's name in vain, coveted, judge yourself by the ten commandments, even 1 makes us guilty. The Bible says that if we confess with our mouth that Jesus is the Son of God, confess our sins, and turn, repent of our sins, then He, Jesus will save us, if you've done this, read your Bible, and have faith in Jesus. He does love you. So very much.

!!Thank You!!

Thank you again Lady Secret!!! It's Teddy Bear Day!!! I am having a ball and I may be making bananna nut bread sunday after church! MMmnmmm...I can taste it already! Thank you!

Sweet Little Doily Bag CAL...

Yay!! It's finally here! I really have to thank the Lord! and Lea for the idea and inspiration. It has a vintage feel, I've seen old victorian patterns and photos of some small ones that hang from a ring and are held n the palm of the hand, used as a coin purse and to hold your dance card for the evening. Here it is....

size "D" hook

# 3 thread

fabric for lining

Day 1
ch 6, slst to join into a ring
R1 ch3 (counts as first dc) 2dc, ch1, into ring { 3dc, ch1,} 5 times. slst into beg. ch3 to end this row. for a total of 6 ch1 sps. and 18 dc.
R2 slst into top of second dc (middle of the 3dc group) ch4, slst into ch1 sp, ch4, slst into middle dc of next group around. equals 12, ch4, loops (kind of looks like a flower at this stage)
R3 slst to middle of next ch4 loop, ch4, (counts as dc, ch1) dc into the same loop, ch2, {dc, ch1, dc, ch2 into the next loop, repeat around} slst into the 3rd ch of the beg. ch4 to end this row. equals 24 dc, 12 ch1, sps, and 12, ch2 sps. You should have a flat circle shape.

Day 2
R4 slst into the next ch1 sp. ch3, 2dc into the same sp (counts as 3 dc) ch3, {3dc, ch3 into the next ch1 sp around} slst into the top of the beg. ch3 to end this row. skipping all the ch2 sps. equals 36 dc and 12, ch3 sps.
R5 slst into next dc, ch3, 2dc in same sp, ch3, sc into ch3 sp from prev. row, ch3, {skip dc, 3dc into next dc, ch3, skip next dc, sc in ch3 sp on prev. row, ch3} repeat around. slst into top of beg. ch3 to end this row. equals 36 dc, 12 sc, 24 ch3 sps.

Day 3
This next row is easy, just keep your chains a little loose.
R6 chain 3, (counts as first dc), dc in next 2 sts, ch6, skip all chain stitches on previous row and {1dc into each of the next 3 dc, ch6. repeat around, slst to the top of beg. ch3 to end this row. equals 36 dc, and 12, ch6 loops. (It may look like it is curling up after this row, don't frog yet, lay it flat and smooth it out first, if it still won't lay flat, look at your chains, are they tight? )
R7 ch3, (counts as first dc), dc in same sp, dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc, (equals 5dc), ch3, sc in ch6 loop from prev. row, ch3, {2dc in next dc, dc in next dc, 2dc in next dc, (5dc) ch3, sc in ch6 loop from prev. row, ch3} repeat around, slst into the top of the beg. ch3 to end this row. equals 60dc, 12sc, 24 ch3 sps.
R8 ch4, counts as dc, ch1, sk next dc, (dc, ch2, dc, ch1) in next dc, sk next dc, dc, in next dc. ch7, {dc in next dc, ch1, sk next dc, in next dc, put dc, ch2, dc, ch1, sk next dc, dc in next dc, ch7} repeat around, slst to 3rd. chain of beg. ch4 to end this row. equals 12, ch7 sps, 12, ch2 sps, 24 ch1 sps, 48 dc

Day 4
R9 slst over to the ch2 sp. ch3, (counts as first dc) 2dc, ch2, 3c in same sp, {ch4, sc in the ch7 sp, ch4, sk ch1 sp, (3dc, ch2, 3dc) in the ch2 sp}, repeat around and slst to the top of the beg. ch3 to end this row. equals 12 ch2 sps, 12 sc, 24 ch4 sps, and 72 dc
R 10 ch5, sc in ch2 sp, (skipping 2dc) ch5, sk 2dc, sc in last dc, {ch5, sc in ch4 sp, ch5, sc in next ch4 sp, ch5, sc in next dc, ch5, sk 2dc, sc in ch2 sp, ch5, sk 2dc, sc in last dc} repeat around, end with slst into the begenning chain, equals 60, ch5 loops. Fasten off and enjoy a sweet doily or make another one to complete the bag. Iron/block as needed to shape the loops on the edge.

Day 5
Yeah!!! Last day for those of you who want to go farther than the doily! Those of you who used # 10 thread, it is a coaster. Lay the two together, wrong sides together, so that you have the pattern repeats matching, and the 2 right sides facing out. We are counting both corresponding ch5 loops as 1, so when you crochet into 1 space, you will be going through both loops, front and back, at the same time. Keep the 2 doilies in the same position, pin it together a few times if you need to.

Attach thread into any 2 (front and back) doily loops, from now on counting the front and back as 1 loop.

Edging
ch1, sc in same loop, skip next loop, {into next loop do dc, ch1, 6 times, and dc, so you will have a shell with 7 dc, and 6 ch1 sps. sk next loop sc into the next loop, sk next loop}, continue around in this pattern until you have closed the doilies around, leaving 12 loops per side unworked, so you will have an opening. ending with a sc,

Handle...into the next loop do 3dc, chain 3, into the top of the last dc, put 2dc, ch3, into the top of the last dc put 2dc, so you are making a handle, without turning, it will have a small scallop. I like a shorter handle, just big enough to hang over the wrist, maby about 12" long, you can go as long or short as you want. When your handle is long enough for you, end on the other side of the opening {skipping the center 12 loops per side}, do 3dc into that last loop before the shell starts. slst into the beg. sc of shell border and finish off. You can sew in a liner if you want, just remember it will be seen so put the "pretty side" of the fabric facing out. Enjoy this sweet little doily bag!
Copyright 2007 Sarah Cooper.

Thank You Miss Lady!!!

Today has been such a special blessing from my SP! I received the most touching and beautiful e-card, with the music "Indescribable" by Chris Tomlin playing in it! I love that song, and I also received in the mail a great package from her too! How did she know I loved note cards? Hmmm, she's been busy, or she knows me better than I thought! The sweet card, pink crocheted heart, are very special, and the buterfly applique and heart, Oh! This has been wonderful! Dare I say...I feel special, and spoiled! YAY! Thank You Lady Secret!

Photo at the ville, having trouble posting it here (?)

Sweet Daisy!

Here is a little daisy I made this morning. I thought it would be a cute applique. It is made in crochet nylon, it it shiney and comes on a spool for around $3.58 at my local Walmart. I hot glued a small flower to the center just to make it cute. Here's ths super easy pattern....

chain 11, slst into the first ch.

chain 10, slst into that same first chain as before, continue this until there are as many petals as you like, you can hot glue in pom-poms, beads, flowers, glitter, anything you like for the center. I did 7 loops/petals, you can do more or less. Make it how you want it.

Enjoy!

**Thank You!!**

I am receiving e-cards everyday from my Secret Pal! They are so beautiful and thoughtful, she really is being thoughtful to everything she knows I love! Yay me! Thank you very much Miss Lady Secret Pal! ;)..or should I say Sister!

Yeah!!!

This comes from a request by a dear friend over at the ville, and I'm very excited about this..I get to host a Mystery CAL for begenning threadies! Yeah! The even more great thing is, last night, just said a prayer, and out this pattern came. Row by row, and not much frogging! Thank you sweet Jesus! It is a smaller project, that can actually be made into two. There is a suprise element, which can or can't be added, just depending on your personal taste. I will post the finished photo and pattern here when the CAL is finished. The final project will have a vintage feel. Can barely wait till Sunday to start posting the pattern!

Secret Pal Strikes Again!!!!

These are for you Miss Lady...a virtual bouquet to Thank you...

Thank you! Today I woke up to find 2 suprises in my inbox....a really fun ice cream car game, and a little birdy told me someone liked me! Thank you!

Thank You Secret Pal!!!

Today I was spoiled with thoughtfulness from my Secret Pal! I received a very friendly and fun e-mail which was fun to read and answer, an E-card, and a Beautiful Virtual Bouquet of pink roses! My favorite! Thank you, thank you, thank you! You have made me feel so special already!

Happy Valentines Day!!!!

Look what my hubby gave me today.....I absolutely love the flowers...lillies..daiseys..carnations...They are beautiful! My 4 year old helped pick them out! Ferrero Rocher, my favorite candy! The sweetest card...yes...I cried, and a balloon. I was blown away! A day early too! Happy Valentines Day!!! Kiss your sweetie!

2 Scarves, and Great News!!

Yeah!! I'm a Crochetville Secret Pal! HEHE!!

Here are 2 scarves I've been working on, the brown one is from 100 Crochet Projects, the Flower Garden Scarf, just with out the flowers.

The Flower Scarf is the Garden Scarf from SnB. Just love them both! Great for Charity because they are soft, sweet, and special! Though I must make for myself, just not sure which one yet...hmmm...