This and That

9 to 9 Rule

2012-02-10T13:36:00.000-08:00

So we have this grocery store in our sweet town that generally has the lowest prices in town. If you don't like running all over town, Sherm's is your place. However, my son and I came up with the 9 to 9 rule for this store since it is the best place to shop. The rule is, don't go to Sherm's between 9 am and 9 pm.

This is a light day at Sherm's, the photo was actually taken on a Saturday morning.

So anyway, today I decided I wanted to do some cooking for the freezer so I needed to run to Sherm's and pick up a few things. By the time I got out of the house it was almost noon, but the parking lot was actually pretty clear, which was actually quite deceiving. Once I was in the store, great googly moogly. It was actually quite packed, and I'll tell you what, I think you need at least a certificate saying you know how to drive a cart. We have people parked in the middle of rows, carts left (one with a purse in it) in the middle of rows, people racing around the aisles, some sloooooooowwwwwww people. Believe me, I tried to get out of there as quickly as possible without adding to the chaos.

Getting out of the parking lot was a challenge as well. We get a lot of those people who see someone heading to their car and sit and wait for them to leave, no matter how backed up traffic gets. But I made it out of the lot.

After heading home and running into traffic from an accident, I have come to the conclusion that I might only leave my house before 9 am and after 9 pm. It saves a lot stress from the craziness out on those streets. Oh, the accident...some car got T-boned when they turned left on a red light to get to the mall. I noticed at Christmas time a lot of people use this particular light as a suggestion, not an actual traffic control device.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

PS: I will follow up on the freezer cooking when I get it done. I forgot to buy cottage cheese, so it looks like another trip to the store...I wonder when my hubby is going to be home : )

I Want to...

2012-02-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

Knit real Chullos

Knit any hat with a really cool design.

Design some fancy shamancy mittens and socks.

Start my own business.

Be more creative.

Refinish the floors in my house.

Come up with a great landscape design for my backyard.

Create some really fun, great desserts.

AND...just CREATE!

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

All photos by Rebekah Lang

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

My Favorite Blogs...

2012-02-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

for right now.

The Pioneer Woman. She makes me laugh, wish I stilled lived on the farm, want my children little again (or to have more) so I can homeschool and do all that cool stuff again, get even fatter trying all her yummy food, and meet her and chat about living in the country and homeschooling and cooking.

Tales from the Coop Keeper. She is funny and inspiring. This is another blogger I would love to meet and sit and chat about important things like chickens.

Keep'n The Sunny Side. I love this blog. Amy is so creative. It would be fun to sit and create together.

Prairie Flower Farm. I love how much faith and trust in God Linda has and how open she is with what is going on in her life. I want to be more like her, more transparent. I also love the farm, makes me homesick.

I follow quite a few more, but these are my "go to" blogs. I read them daily with my cup of tea. It is kinda like sitting and visiting with friends. Maybe some day I will get lucky and get to meet all these wonderful ladies.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Family

2012-02-06T10:09:00.000-08:00

I have posted several times about my dad's side of the family, so I thought I would post about my mom's side of the family. I don't know as much about our family on my mom's side so if there are any relatives out there that would like to help with some history...I'm all ears (or eyes as the case may be).

We'll start with my great grandparents the Harmons. I know great grandma's name is Glenda, but I don't know my great grandpa's. He passed away when I was really little (and that was a long time ago). I loved my great grandma's house. I have a few wonderful memories of Easters and stopping by and visiting when we went to Spokane. I remember a hill we used to roll down, it seemed big at the time, but I think it is that little hump in the background on the right of the picture. Lots of good memories.

They begat...

My grandpa, Emmett "Jack" Harmon. He is the dapper dude in front. My grandma is standing next to him and if I'm not mistaken, the man in the hat is one of his brothers, but I could be wrong. They were never very talkative about family.

My grandpa in later years, still pretty dapper, don't ya think!

Emmett married Carmen Jean Harmon (she changed her name to Jean).

and they begat...

Billie Jean (on the right), Hazel Marie (on the left), and Russell Emmett on grandpa's lap. Dustin isn't pictured (or born) yet.

My mom (she is the tallest) and a bunch of other children. If any family members can help me out here leave me a comment please.

My aunt Hazel.

My mom (right) and aunt (left). Ain't they cute!

My uncle Russel (Rusty).

The whole family including my dad. My uncle Dustin is the little guy in front.

Dustin a couple of years ago.

These are my grandma's brothers and sisters. My grandma is is smack dab in the middle of the girls.

At my parents wedding.

And they begat... my brother and me.

Scott and Beth on the first day of school. I really liked this house. We had a huge backyard and a cool basement. Weekends were filled with Lawrence Welk and Hee Haw and eating in front of the TV. I remember the day the astronauts landed on the moon and my mom called us in from the backyard to see it on TV. Dad taking us around the neighborhood on Halloween for trick or treating. Driving around and seeing the Christmas lights so Santa could come on Christmas Eve. Good times. This was a great house, on a cul-de-sac in Coeur d'Alene.

Beth

Scott

And that my friend's is the another part of the story of me (and Scott).

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Awwwww....

2012-02-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

While looking through my photos for some inspiration for a post, I came across this one...

This has to be one of my favorite photos of my darling daughter. Just the look on her little face. And the bangs...I don't know who cut them (probably me), but she is so adorable. Now she is a grown woman, living far, far away. I miss those chubby little cheeks.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Life Happens

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

I came down with a cold last week and it is still hanging on. I hate colds, especially the cough. Mainly because I have coughing fits and pretty soon I am gagging with tears running down my face and I am gasping for air...I like to stay home to experience this phenomenon alone. Unfortunately, I started work for a daycare (which is where I picked up the cold), and we are shorthanded, so I get to share this awesome sight with people. I just want to stay home...

be a hermit...

cuddled in a blanket...

with a cup of tea...

and a good book...

and my puppies.

That's all.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting Modern, the final chapter...

2012-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

This is just a quicky about needles. They haven't changed a lot over the years, but have there have been a few...upgrades, shall we say.

Let's start with cable needles. The vintage ones had a very stiff plastic cable. I have a set and they are hard to work with. They don't want to straighten out at all. It is a constant fight. The new material they make cables out of is very nice to work with. They straighten out and you can knit quite quickly with them. Then, someone invented INTERCHANGEABLE needles. How brilliant is that. My boy-o bought me a set for Christmas in 2010.

He bought me the KnitPicks Harmony wood needles. (I have not been compensated for endorsing this product, these are just the ones I wanted 'cause they're pretty). I love them. I wanted the wood because I like working with wood needles, and they're pretty.

The set came with four cables, two 24" cables and two 32" cables, endcaps in case you need that size of needle for another project, you can put the caps on the cable and save the project. A little cotter pin to tighten and loosen the needle tips on/off the cable.

This is where the pin goes.

The endcap on a cable.

The only downside is the sizes only range from 4 to11. I do a lot of sock knitting and use smaller needles, but most of the time that is okay because I prefer to use double-point needles anyway.

These other needles were just kinda fun...

The red ones are just some clear plastic. They are short and great for the silky type yarns. The purple are plastic also, but they light up on the end, so you can knit in the dark.

The tip is lit here. It shows up better in the dark, but I don't take good dark pictures, so this is what we have.

There are a lot of other cool, decorative needles out there. These are just some that I have.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Backyard Farm

2012-01-30T05:00:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I said anything about the Henrietta Cluck and her babies...

They have gotten so big...the white speckled one is Henny Penny...the big red one, well its name is undecided...it will either be Big Red or Chicken Dinner. Just depends if you know what I'm saying...

The red and black is Ms. Cluckington...

The gold and black is Lacy...I know, not as creative...

The little golden girl Pierre is looking at is Peggy...and Pierre...he is thinking...CHICKEN DINNER!

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

There is a Feeling of Spring in the Air...

2012-01-27T05:00:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I think the reason I love Christmas, besides the obvious reasons of my Saviour's birth and the joy of the season, is that after Christmas comes spring...at least in my mind since we have moved to the Pacific Northwest.

I know, I'm a little deluded, but at the end of January when the Christmas buzz is starting to where off, the early flowers are starting to poke their little heads through the ground.

The rhubarb is growing...

and I can hardly wait for its tangy goodness.

and the butterfly bush is leafing out...(Big SIGH) I love the PACIFIC NORTHWEST!!!

Here's a little song to help you get ready for spring...

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Missing...

2012-01-26T09:30:00.000-08:00

I am missing...

all these lovely fresh fruits and veggies...

They were so lovely tasting...

so inspiring in my cooking...

I can hardly wait for summer to start getting these again.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting Modern part three

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Yep, another one...

This time I want to talk about the internet and all the goodies out there. This does not include shopping because a lot of us are already quite good at that. I am talking about blogs and YouTube.

I following several knitting blogs, mainly of designers I like, for example SpillyJane Knits. She also has a Ravelry page and hosts a group called I Make Mittens. I love her mittens.

Another great blog, especially if you are wanting to learn to knit and can't afford or don't want to take classes (or live somewhere they are not available) is VeryPink.

These are just two of the many blogs I follow.

YouTube...what a resource. If you are in the process of learning a new technique, this makes it so easy. It is like having someone sit next to you and show you how to do it. I love it. Here is an example...

These are a few more "modern" tools to use while you knit. Enjoy...and Knit.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Size dysmorphia

2012-01-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

I love dogs! All sizes of dogs, but I have found that little dogs are my favorite. My little Chiquita was so special. I still really miss her.

She was just so tiny,

and loved to be held and cuddled.

NOW...

I have two little dogs, who are both bigger than Chiquita ever dreamed about...

Pierre...

my little scruff-a-muffin...

so cute...and sweet.

Then there is...

Sunny...he has the greatest Chihuahua ears ever!

and he thinks he is all Chihuahua (he's not).

he has size dysmorphia. He thinks he is a little, tiny dog...

He ain't. He is bigger than Pierre, who is quite a bit bigger than Chiquita, but we manage because I love to hold him while he sleeps 'cause he is a love-bug and cuddler extraordinaire.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

This and That...

2012-01-20T09:53:00.000-08:00

I like fog...

it is so misty and mysterious...it just swallows things up.

I love my Oskar von Bunnyhoffer...

He is so soft and cuddly.

I love my boys...

they are just great to be around.

I love pretty flowers...

they are just so happy...

and smell so good.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

It's Here...

2012-01-19T11:02:00.000-08:00

Winter. Like most of the US our winter was little slow in coming. Not that anyone minded, except that it meant a dry summer with high risk for forest fires here, and elsewhere.

But, as of Sunday, winter has arrived.

For us, that means rain...

Lots and lots of rain...

And sometimes a little snow.

So far I haven't heard of any flooding around Roseburg, but it is flooding at the coast and up by Albany. Keep us in your prayers.

The snow is coming down in the mountains, which normally doesn't bother me, but my hubby drives truck and has to go over a couple passes that are snow covered. He is used to snow, but this is wet snow, and there are a lot of people driving who are not used to driving in snow. Keep him in your prayers. There have been a lot of accidents on the roads.

I pray all my dear readers are staying warm and safe, and dry.

On another note, I see I have two new followers...WELCOME!

Oh, I enjoy comments, but I understand if you don't leave one.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting Modern part two

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

I am a quiet person. A lot of people think I am shy. I'm not. I just learned to listen to others a long time ago, you tend to learn a lot about people when you do that. I'm more social than most people think, even though I am a homebody. That is where Ravelry comes in. It is a site dedicated to knitters, crocheters, and spinners.

You have a place to put your projects, with pictures. A place to que future projects. List patterns in the faves column for those you like but not sure when you will do. Keep track of your yarn stash and handspuns if you are a spinner. They even have a library to keep track of your books and magazines. Even a place to list your needles and hooks. And if you use this with Ballero on your smart phone, you can take it with you.

It is also part social networking as well. It is like having a knitting/spinning group right in your own home. That is where the Groups tab comes in. I belong to a lot of groups, some knitting, some spinning. Some groups do knit-alongs, some provide great information. There are a lot of very experienced knitters, spinners, and crocheters so if you need help, you have someone to ask for help. I have used that a lot for spinning help.

There is also the pattern tab. JACKPOT! There are a lot designers on Ravelry and they share their patterns. Some are for sale, but if you can't afford to get a lot of patterns, there are a lot of free as well. It has a great filter feature, if you know what you want you can really narrow the parameters when searching for a pattern.

You can also add friend. It makes it easy to keep up with your favorite designers and your friends who are on Ravelry. You can check out your friends, and others, yarn stash, projects, etc. I encourage you to check this out and maybe even join, and if you do...friend me. You can find me here.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Brrrrrrrrr

2012-01-16T09:49:00.000-08:00

Last week it was chilly here, at least in the mornings. It did warm up a little in the afternoons...mid 40s maybe. This week...we started out like this...

I know some people around here really like the snow, mainly because we don't get a lot. Rarely in fact. Me, I'm from Montana...I had enough snow. But I won't complain, This is the Day that the LORD has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. I will just have a nice cuppa tea and do a little spinning, knitting, and maybe a good book.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Do You Ever...

2012-01-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

Do you ever...

become breathless at the beauty outside your living room window?

wonder how you can love a little dog so much?

love learning new things?

wish for more hours in the day?

wish for less hours in the day?

Do you ever?

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Ready...

2012-01-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

I am ready for spring. I am anxious to get my garden planted. I love how my little garden beds look when they are all planted.

So, I guess while I am waiting for spring to arrive...

I will get my seeds started...

Make my garden plans, maybe add another raised bed. Clear space for some fruit trees...

and wait patiently for the pretty spring flowers and the warmer days.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting Modern part one

2012-01-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

This started out as a simple post about using technology in knitting. Well it mushroomed into more and since there are a lot of pictures and information it will be at least two parts if not three.

Part One: The Apps
Oh, my are there apps. If you have an iPhone, iPad, iPod, or smart phone you have a lot of options for knitting apps, some that are helpful, some not so much. By the way, I have not received any compensation from anyone about any of these apps. I just did some research and downloaded some to try and see what I thought of them. The opinions about these are mine and mine alone. Just had to say that.

Back to the apps...first there is Ballero. This app links up to your Ravelry account (more about Ravelry later).

Home page.

What is downloaded from Ravelry.

A list of my projects...some are queued for a later date, some are in progress, some done. At the top right-hand corner are the letters a-z. If you touch that it will bring up a little screen and you can choose what you want to look at...WIPs(works-in-progressed), queued, or completed.

This is a list of my needles (and crochet hooks). As I was looking through I noticed I need to update a little since I have gotten some needles since I put them on Ravelry.

Pro: I like being able to link to my Ravelry account. I work on there a lot and it is nice not to have to add everything to phone also. Having the projects list is a nice feature for me because when I walk into a yarn shop I experience sensory overload and forget what I went in for. It is all just so pretty, and there is so much of it, and there are needles and hooks, and books, and more...oh my, I get breathless just thinking about it. Must be about time for a trip to the yarn store in Eugene for a fix. The project list keeps me on track when I am shopping and I get what I need to get my project started. It is also handy if you are buying needles or hooks so you don't double up.

Cons: It doesn't have a counter. It would be great if it were an all-in-one app to save space on my phone.

Second App:

County and County Plus. I put these together since they are the same, plus makes it so you can have counters for more than one project and sync to Ravelry. .

Nice big numbers.

You can choose whether to increase or decrease. In settings it takes you to the following screen.

On this screen you can set how many rows you have before a repeat. You select the row you are on and then it leads to the following screen.

It shows at the bottom of the screen the pattern repeat and completed repeats.

It only syncs with Ravelry projects, not the needles or your stash.

Pros: Large, easy-to-read numbers. Easy to use. Syncs with Ravelry. Can do multiple projects on Plus. Keeps track of repeats. County is free, Plus is 1.62.

Cons: Doesn't include needle/hook inventory.

I like this app and will probably keep it on my phone.

Third App:

Cute Counter. This is just a counter. It is cute though.

With this one you roll your finger over the wheel to change the numbers. It works pretty much like the physical one it looks like. You do have the option to have two.

Pros: It is cute with its little animated face. Cons: Very manual and you have to remember which direction the wheels turn. This app costs 1.99. If I wasn't doing research I wouldn't buy it.

Fourth App:

Gaugefy. This one is cool. It calculates gauge for you. Yea! I always look for something to simplify the math for me.

You put the numbers in and it spits out your gauge.

Pros: I don't have to do the math. It's free.

Cons: Can't really think of one except that it doesn't count the stitches and rows for me, or measure the piece, but I guess a girl can't have everything.

Fifth App:

Knitting Kit. This is kind of a cool app.

Enter your project(s).

It pulls up the counters. The second counter is for a repeat. When you get to the repeat touch the second counter and it resets the first counter.

Pros: It is fairly simple to use. It is free.

Cons: It isn't automatic. You can't set the row to repeat and have it do it automatically. You have physically hit the repeat counter.

Sixth App:

Knitting Stash. I have been using this one for about one year now.

There is a place to list your projects,

needles, hooks...

For each project you can make lists or notes to yourself.

and of course it has a counter. It doesn't have a double counter or keep track of repeats. You can have a counter for each project though.

Pros: Easy to use. Place for projects, needles/hooks, and has a counter. Pretty much an all-in-one app. Counter for each project. It's free.

Cons: Only one counter per project. No repeat counter. Have to manually put in projects and needles on the phone, doesn't sync with Ravelry. I may be switching to Ballero and a counter. Not sure yet.

Seventh App:

Ravulous. Hmmmm.

This syncs with Ravelry.

It lists your projects, you've completed.

Pros: I'm not in love with this one.

Cons: It costs 1.60 and only lists your finished projects. I don't see the point. Ballero is more practical.

Eigth App:

Yarn Inventory. This is a neat app.

You can sort the yarn to what you have and what you need. Then add a template. Once it is named there is an autofill option for popular brands of yarn.

Pros: Keeps track of the yarn you have and makes a list of what you need.

Cons: It takes a lot of time to manually enter your yarn if there isn't one in the system. It costs .99.

Ninth App:

Yarn Shopper and Yarn Shopper Elite Key. This is the same program. Elite just opens more options.

With this app you add your project and what you need to complete it, press ok, it brings up a list of yarns that meet your criteria and the prices. Once you pick one, the app adds the description. It is a fun app.

Pros: It is nice to have an idea what a project will cost before you get to the store. It has drop down boxes so enter the info is quick and easy. Yarn Shopper is free.

Cons: To get all the features you need Yarn Shopper Elite Key which costs 1.50.

So, those are the main knitting apps that I found. There are more and at varying prices. Of course the iPhone has some that aren't available for the android. I didn't check those out since I don't have an iPhone.

I want to share two more that I use regularly in my knitting, even though they aren't knitting apps.

This is a tape measure. I found it one day when I was out knitting and forgot my tape measure. I just knew there had to be an app.

It always pulls up the instruction page first.

Then you get a ruler.

Pros: It is big and easy to read and, once you figure it out, easy to use. It's free.

Cons: It might just be me, but it took a few times through the instructions before I figured out how to use it. Once I did...I love it.

Next..Adobe Reader.

This has been very helpful when I don't want to take my pattern along or print one off. I usually use for simple projects since I can't mark on my phone.

Any pattern you find on Ravelry or the internet that is downloadable (PDF) can be added to this on your phone or iPad and you have your pattern with you.

Last, but not least...Kindle or Nook for your android. I don't happen to have a tablet of any sort, but I found out when I bought my phone I can get the Kindle and/or Nook for my phone. Best of all...they are both FREE! Love it. I have a lot of books on it, including cookbooks and....a knitting book.

I got a good deal on the e-book version of this so I purchased it. I love being able to take it with me wherever I go.

So, if I was smart enough to be able to write or make or whatever you do to create an app, I would have a combo app of Ballero, a counter that does multiple projects and repeats, Gaugefy, and Yarn Shopper. An all-in-one app would be great, but for now I will pick my favorites and keep on knitting.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Oatmeal

2012-01-09T07:27:00.000-08:00

I love oatmeal. Always have. I love the old-fashioned oatmeal the best, cooked with just a bit of honey added for sweetness. Instant oatmeal is nice to have on hand though...for the quickness. My favorites are Maple and brown sugar and brown sugar and cinnamon. Those little packets are just so expensive.

Well, not along ago I ran across a few blogs whose creators are more creative than I, and they decided to make their own. (I won't go into Umpqua Oats and the lovely business they created on this subject...as they say, "why didn't I think of that?).

Anyway, Saturday I used this recipe to make my own packets of instant oats. But you can find more here. The only problem I had was how do I make my favorite the maple/brown sugar. You need all dry ingredients, right?

Problem solved...Google to the rescue. I found this...

and you can find it here. Don'tcha just love the internet? (I was not paid to endorse this product, it is just what I found).

Anyway, here is what I did...

I followed the recipe (sorta) from Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker and made 1 cup of the oatmeal powdery (I doubled the recipe...did I say I love oatmeal).

I then added all the other ingredients...more oatmeal, salt, brown sugar, maple powder and/or cinnamon.

Then I bagged them...

and labeled them.

Sunday, for breakfast, I tried one of the maple ones, couldn't wait to see if it was as good as the stores...it was better.

Oh...by the way, I added 1 tablespoon of maple powder with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar (doubled recipe).

Instant Oatmeal
From: Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker
3 cups quick-cooking oats
small ziplock baggies
Put 1/2 cup oats in a blender on high until powdery. Set aside in a small bowl and repeat procedure with an additional 1/2 cup oats. If you'r using a food processor, you can do 1 cup at a time. Put the following ingredients into each baggie: 1/4 cup un-powdered oats, 2 tbls powdered oats and 1/8 tsp salt.

To serve: Empty packet into a bowl. Add 3/4 cup boiling water. Stir and let stand for 2 minutes. For thicker oatmeal, use less water.

Variations:
1. Apple-Cinnamon Oatmeal: To each packet add 1 Tbls sugar, 1/4 tsp cinnamon and 2 Tbls finely minced dried apples (use scissors)
2. Sweetened Oatmeal: Add 1 Tbls sugar or 1 packet artificial sweetener
3. Brown Sugar & Cinnamon Oatmeal: Add 1 Tbls brown sugar and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
4. Raisins & Spice Oatmeal: Add 1 Tbls brown sugar, 1 Tbls raisins and 1/8 tsp each allspice and cinnamon
5. Fruit & Cream Oatmeal: Add 1 Tbls non-dairy coffee creamer and 2 Tbls minced dried fruit (use scissors)
6. S'mores Oatmeal: Add 6 miniature marshmallows and 1 Tbls milk chocolate chips

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting Vintage part 2

2012-01-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

The last time I talked about my vintage knitting needles I shared part of my collection, the double point needles. Today, a few more needles and patterns and...stuff.

First needles...

I have metal, plastic, and wood... For any non-knitters out there these are used in straight or flat knitting. These are great for scarves, squares for afghans, dish/wash clothes, that type of thing. I used to use these all the time because I could only knit flat. I made a lot of dishcloths and and few scarves.

Now I am hooked on socks so I mostly use the DPNs (double-pointed needles) and sometimes cable needles if I want to knit two at a time. My favorites are the DPNs though.

The old plastic ones (emerald green ones) are not fun to use. The yarn sticks and it is nearly impossible to move along the needle. They would be good for a slick yarn like some of the fancy specialty yarns they have now.

I also have a couple vintage pattern books...

and I plan on making some things from them...I have been wanting just a plain cardigan for those chilly days and it is hard to find one I like...unless I go vintage.

This one is circa 1966.

Of course some things never go out of style, like these cute sweaters and hats for babies and toddlers. I have three littles to knit for so this is great.

Then there are the tools of the trade...

These have not changed a lot over the years, but neither have knitting needles. These have been squared up a little and had the millimeter sizes added. Some are made of plastic as well.

Here is a great article on the history of knitting. I find things like this very interesting.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Ramblings...

2012-01-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wonder why I started blogging. I mean really, what do I really have to say? I hold a lot back because, truthfully, it isn't usually worth saying out loud much less writing down.

When I think back to when I started this blog, I remember why I started it. I started it to share my tea room and my experiences with it. Since it closed, I have pretty much rambled on about anything.

I suppose I should pick a topic to write about. All the good bloggers do that ya know. I just hate to be pinned down. What if I get tired of knitting, cooking, my dogs, my rabbit, chickens...blah, blah, blah. I doubt I ever will get tired of these things, but ya never know.

I guess I will just keep rambling on and if you see something you like...enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-03T23:56:00.001-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting Vintage...

2012-01-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

I would consider myself fairly new to knitting. I taught myself how to knit about 5 years ago. I haven't knit steady during that time either. It has only been since I lost my job a little over a year ago that I picked it up again and haven't put it down. BUT, that isn't what this post is about...this is about the needles.

I have some pretty nice knitting needles but some are very precious to me. First, I have my dad's knitting needles. He used to knit when I was a little kid and that is getting longer ago than I care to admit (I think I am about to hit the vintage mark). I love to use the needles he gave me since it keeps him in my mind while I am knitting. Maybe I should make him something using his needles...

I also love the packaging of the needles...

The cases are made of pretty tough plastic, which is great for storing them.

Look at those prices...

The artwork is darling...

and they are proudly made in the U.S.A.

I love the metal needles the best. I used the plastic ones once and don't know if I will again unless I use extremely slick yarn. They feel hard and smooth, but yarn on those puppies and it doesn't move.

These are the plastic ones.

The second set that I treasure are my Harmony interchangeables my boy-o bought me for Christmas last year. More about them in another post though.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Meet...

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

We have added a new member to our little family...

This is Oskar von Bunnyhoffer. He is a German giant angora rabbit. He is so precious. He likes to be held and just snuggles in. We brought him home on Saturday. The breeder we bought him from is great. She showed me how to shear him and then put this cute little coat on him. He seems to be enjoying his new home. We have made a nice warm place for him to live.

Sunny and Pierre are very curious about him, but I have a feeling they are thinking more rabbit dinner than friend so we will have to be careful with that.

I bought him so I would have some angora to spin, but I can see a very special relationship developing here.

Yesterday I took him over to my friend's house and her granddaughter (my honorary grandgirl) was there. Everybody but Little Miss wanted to touch his softness. Little Miss liked to look at him, but she was NOT, under any circumstances, going to touch him...or him her. Grammy held the bunny close while daddy move Little Miss in closer and she even pulled her little top away from him...no way was he going to touch her. Maybe in time she will discover how soft and nice he is, but she is only 17 months old.

Anyway, I am enjoying Oskar and his soft bunny(ness).

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Happy New Years!

2011-12-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

I want to wish you all a happy New Year with many blessings.

I am not one to make resolutions...because they only last as long as it took time to think them up. I do enjoy welcoming a new year though. I look forward to see what it will bring. It is a time of beginning again...it is sorta like spring...and anything is possible.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Fly Away Home...

2011-12-29T16:59:00.000-08:00

My little birdie (daughter) has flown away home. I sure did enjoy her visit. I miss her very much since she has moved. She has always been such a blessing.

I am hoping to get to go visit her in the spring or early summer sometime.

I miss you girlie...but enjoy your life and spread your wings...and soar.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-28T14:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Knitting

2011-12-27T09:33:00.000-08:00

I love giving handmade gifts. I love receiving handmade gifts as well. So for Christmas this year I mad socks, mittens, fingerless mitts, and hats. I even worked on some very special "glittens" for my brother and nephew. I found patterns for similar items, but not quite what I wanted, so I made up my own and this what I came up with...

This pair is for my brother...

This pair is for my nephew...

I really enjoyed the process of figuring out how I wanted to create these. I have also come up with ideas to make them even better and some design changes. I definitely want to make some for my guys and myself, they are so warm. I talked to my brother and he and my nephew both love their mittens. They hunters and outdoorsmen so these are perfect for what they like to do.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Its the Most Wonderful Time of the Year...

2011-12-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful time celebrating the birth of my Lord and Saviour this weekend! I usually enjoy this time of year even though it is usually just the four of us, but this year we spent a lot of time with friends...our Roseburg family.

To kick things off our family went to see the Festival of Lights. My darling daughter, who came home to spend Christmas with us, took these pictures.

These are just a few of the lights in the park. These show what Douglas County has to offer...and of course the Nativity and a few fun ones.

On Saturday we went to our church's Christmas Eve service. It is always wonderful. Great music and a great message.

This young lady is getting quite good on the violin.

Our delightful choir sang a few songs for us.

The Grace Notes were wonderful as usual.

Our worship leader Stan, on the piano, and guest trumpet player were awesome.

To top off the evening we enjoyed Chinese dinner with some friends.

It is a great place to eat. We chose to have the cook choose our dinner, which is an option on the menu. It was all super good.

Christmas day I put the turkey in the oven, made pancakes, and then we headed off to church. I love spending time with my church family, especially since our families live so far away. We have a lot of great people in our church who love the Lord and are very giving of what they have and themselves. You can see Jesus working through them.

The rest of the day we just hung out and watched Christmas movies, including A Christmas Story...the one with Ralphie. It was a great day.

I pray your Christmas was great and wish you many blessings.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Christmas Cheer

2011-12-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

I love ornaments...

vintage ornaments are even better (these are not vintage, just look like it)...

Even if I don't do anything else to the house for Christmas...

I like to at least have a tree with its bright, shiny lights and pretty ornaments.

Here is a fun site that gives the chronological history of the Christmas tree http://www.christmasarchives.com/trees.html.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Christmas Countdown...

2011-12-19T13:27:00.000-08:00

I am really starting to count down to Christmas now...only 6 days left. And boy does it feel like I have a lot to do. My daughter is coming home so I need to get the guest room ready, clean the fridge, thaw the turkey, finish the Christmas gifts and mail some of them, do some more baking...and on and on it goes.

I know I am not the only one who has a lot to do and I count my blessings I am not working so I have the time to get it done. My prayer is that I don't try to do to many things and forget what Christmas is all about. My Saviour coming to earth as a baby, living as a child and then a man, dying on the cross for my sins...and yours.

Celebrating Christ's birth is the most important thing, and I don't want the busyness to get in the way. So, maybe not everything will get done, or be perfect...but Christ will be first and the this Christmas season will be awesome.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Silliness

2011-12-16T11:16:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed that sometimes the littlest, inconsequential thing makes us giggle or just fascinates us.

The past couple of weeks my fascination has been this picture. Not that the cupcakes are special, it is the swirl pattern. When you scroll down there is movement. Try it...

How was two? Fun right?

I also just figured out it doesn't work while I am working on this post, it is only on the blog. Really weird.

Just for silliness' sake how was three?

I know...this post is just silliness.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

This and That

2011-12-15T09:37:00.000-08:00

It has been chilly here...cold actually. I know, we are spoiled when this temperature is cold, but I still say...brrrrrr.

And foggy...

I like fog...

Even though it is cold outside...

It kinda feels...

cozy...

like being wrapped in a blanket. Maybe it is because it is a snuggle on the couch with hot cocoa book kinda day.

I snuggled, but with tea and my knitting...

I started a scarf...then ripped it out.

But, I have finished some projects...

These are glittens...

and boy are they toasty...

I think I will have to make myself a pair, maybe with all the fingertips flippable.

These are going to Montana.

Nice warm socks.

Knit two-at-a-time. They are going to Montana too.

And now, a chicken coop update.

It is built, but not finished.

We still need the nest boxes, storage area, and I want to put siding on it and paint it to match my house.

But the girls are happy.

They are safe and can go outside and scratch in the dirt.

Most of the materials for the coop are recycled. We bought some lumber and hardware from a Heartwood Resources who reclaim materials from buildings being remodeled or torn down. We had some stuff around the place.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-14T08:10:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Searching For A King

2011-12-13T08:07:00.000-08:00

(Right up front I am going to apologize for the quality of these pictures. Dark, no flash, moving people equals blurry pictures).

Once again our drama team and choir performed a wonderful drama. This year it was "Searching for a King". My boy-o sang in the choir this year...

He is standing on the right behind the microphone...

There he is, oooohhhhing. My wonderful, beautiful friend Susan is in front of him. Bonnie my Oasis small group leader is beside him, and the half guy is our worship leader Stan. He just got married to a very beautiful, wonderful woman.

Sorry Kiel and Craig, I am posting the photos even though they are blurry.

"Searching for a King" is about two men, one modern soldier and one ancient wiseman...searching

Fortunately they have friends to help them along the way...

A fellow soldier...

A fellow wiseman...

The grieving mom of your best friend, who you lost in the war...

It was such great drama and showed all that we need Christ, who we celebrate this Christmas Season, as our Saviour. Not just head knowledge...but Heart knowledge.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Tea with Friends

2011-12-12T22:31:00.000-08:00

This morning I went out to my friend Julia's house and we had a tea party. We invited our knitting group and Julia's mom (who comes to our knitting group sometimes). Since I talk about my knitting group on occasion, I would like to introduce you to the ladies...

this is Mary. She knits sometimes, but she is our crocheter. She makes beautiful afghans. She is delightful to visit with.

Here we have Carol in the back and Julia in the front. Carol is a great, loving lady who is currently raising two of her grandchildren. She is a knitter and does a beautiful job on whatever she knits. Julia, is an adventurous knitter. Patterns are only suggestions to her. She gets started and then off she goes and everything turns out wonderful.

And Voyla...she is Julia's mom and a very dear, sweet lady. I am blessed to have her in my small group in Oasis again this year. She is such a Godly woman. I love that every time I see her somewhere, she has a big hug for me.

When Julia and her husband went on vacation (and I house sit for them), they bought a great Chinese tea set and that is what we used at our tea party.

I love the strainer and the holder, which is shaped like a hand.

These are the goodies I made. At the top we have Kiss pies (you can find the recipe here). Middle layer is an easy rugelach...just puff pastry sheets, jam, and pecans baked at 375 degrees until nice and brown. Bottom layer is Lemon Cranberry Shortbread (recipe is here).

Voyla made some little open-faced sandwiches and celery sticks with cheese. One of her little sammy's had a really good Havarti on it. Loved it.

It was so much fun to take some time out of my day and enjoy a nice visit with some wonderful ladies and enjoy a good cup of tea and some goodies. Good company, good food, good times...doesn't get much better than that.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-12-07T08:07:00.001-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Oasis Christmas

2011-12-06T16:34:00.001-08:00

Each year about this time the Bible study (Oasis) I attend at my church (Wellspring Bible Fellowship) has a Christmas lunch. It is planned out and organized by Priscilla, who does a fabulous job coming up with the themes and getting things organized.

(Priscilla)

It is a potluck and the food is abundant and delicious. This year I made cupcakes...

They were very yummy. They were chocolate Wacky Cake with peppermint buttercream frosting and crunched candy canes sprinkled on top. You can find the cake recipe here.

Peppermint Buttercream Frosting

1 cup butter

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

2 tablespoons milk, added a little at a time to get desired consistency.

Add all ingredients and blend in mixer until smooth and creamy. Put in piping bag or just spread onto cupcake. For these cupcakes I added a stripe of food color to opposite sides of the pastry bag to get the striped look.

Anyhoo...back to the lunch...

The tables were beautiful, everyone did a great job decorating.

This table is my small groups.

In case you are wondering, the theme this year was the legend of the candy cane.

We have a group of ladies in our church called the Grace Notes, they do special music on occasion and they sang a couple of songs today. Here is a taste...

Our speaker was Shirley Yates, a local woman. She is also a singer/musician. She has a group called Shirley and the boys. This is Shirley...

She sang a few songs for us as well...

All the ladies had a great time. Our small group enjoyed the fellowship, food, and music.

They are all such beautiful, Godly women. I love them all dearly. See you next year ladies!

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

My How Time Flies...

2011-12-02T11:32:00.001-08:00

Only 24 day until Christmas...and so much to do. This is such a busy time of year and I have been working at Little Wellspring Daycare for four afternoons this week.

Sonny boy and I did get the outside lights up. Pictures to come. I drove home last night after work and Dave Ramsey and they were so pretty. At least it is the best we have ever done.

This evening I will start decorating the tree and finishing up a Christmas gift and then starting another. Tomorrow, Christmas fair with friends and bake cupcakes for Verve and Oasis...and make Christmas crackers for Oasis small group ladies.

Sometimes I think I bite of more than I can chew, but I love to give handmade gifts and bake and decorate.

I must say though as far behind as I feel I am I also have a lot done. I do have most of the Christmas gifts finished.

I will be sure to take pictures and update next week on all that happens this weekend...and the coop is almost completely finished so I will update that as well.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-30T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Let the Festivities Begin!

2011-11-29T12:51:00.001-08:00

Well, with Thanksgiving being over, we are now entering the Christmas season full tilt. This year I kicked it off by going to a craft bazaar and Real Deals with a couple of friends. Then, as a family...we headed up the mountain with a group from our Sunday school class to hunt down our Christmas tree.

Whenever we talk about a tree hunt, people's minds turn right to hunting and we are asked what we use to take down the tree. This year my son told people a 30-30 works good, it is just bleeding it out that is hard. Bah, dum, dum.

Anyhoo...It was a beautiful day for the drive up the mountain. This drive is always beautiful. There are tree tunnels to drive through, and the river runs along the road most of the way up.

We usually stop at Watson Falls to use the rest area. You can see the falls from the parking lot or you can hike up to it. It is a beautiful waterfall, one of many in the Umpqua National Forest.

The above pictures are of Watson Falls a couple of summers ago when we hiked up there.

Ya know, I am used to seeing clusters of mushrooms in my yard and garden and in the forest...but let me tell ya...these were HUGE! There were three clumps in the area that we were at.

Finally, we get to the area of the tree hunt, AND our leader got stuck. The snow is really wet and it is easy to get stuck.

My sonny boy heading up the hill with his shovel...makes me think of the Seven Dwarfs as they are going to work..."Hi Ho, Hi Ho, its off to work we go".

Finally we reach the spot with the best trees, at least as close as we can get. I'm a slacker...I didn't actually get a picture of them cutting the tree.

My hubby dragging it down the hill to the truck.

Hubby with his trophy...sonny just watching...

While I am trying to get a picture the smartypants think this is funny.

They finally turn around...

We were all successful and found beautiful trees so we headed back down the mountain...to our picnic spot and lunch.

Gathered around the fire enjoying chili, hot cocoa and cider, cornbread, and cheesecake and pumpkin pies.

This is a great, fun day we have every year. A great family day of playing in the snow. I know my family looks forward to hanging out with this great group of people every year.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Tuesday

2011-11-22T19:07:00.001-08:00

It was a nice day today, not like most Tuesdays...it was quieter. There was no Oasis today due to Thanksgiving, but a few of us did get together to knit. I worked on these...

I have two more of the socks on the needles and I think I will make at least two more of everything, so a total of six. These are for a project I am working on that I will share later.

Last week I also made these...

These are pumpkin pie pops. You can find the recipe here.

I made these for Oasis.

With the left over pumpkin I made these...

I put most of them in the freezer for when I take treats some place again. I would put all in the freezer but somebody ate them (and it wasn't me). Around our house if you don't get it hid, it disappears.

Tomorrow I bake rolls and a pumpkin to take to our friends house where we are going for Thanksgiving dinner. It is going to be a fun day!

I pray everyone who celebrates Thanksgiving has a great day Thursday.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

This and That

2011-11-21T14:40:00.001-08:00

My son and I had a great weekend. We managed to get in two plays and a ballet. No, I don't have pictures, but they were AWESOME.

On Friday we went to our local amateur theater UACT (Umpqua Actors Community Theater) and saw "A Christmas Carol". I am not a fan of this story, but they did such a wonderful job, and the actor they have to play Scrooge was amazing. They also lightened it up a little which helped this story.

Saturday took us to the high school play "Check Please". I don't know which was funnier the play or the audience. If you haven't heard of this play, it is about a man and a woman who go on a series of blind dates until they accidently meet each other, fall in love, break up and hit the dating circuit again...I won't spoil the end.

Sunday, the "Nutcracker". What more can I say...it is my favorite ballet. The Eugene Ballet Company comes here to perform with the help of some local dance students. I love seeing it live, but my favorite version is the one with Mikhail Baryshnikov, who is the most amazing dancer.

Anyway, I feel very blessed and fortunate to live in a community that loves and supports the arts.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T09:02:00.001-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Henrietta Cluck

2011-11-10T15:43:00.001-08:00

One of the things I miss most about our farm is my chickens. I love chickens. I think they are one of things that makes a farm a farm... It is so picturesque to see chickens wandering around, clucking, digging, scratching...

So, I have a wonderful friend who lives on a little farm...has some chickens...and gave me one... I introduced you to her here.

Henrietta Cluck

This is the update...five little babies...

They are so cute and soft...and Henrietta is a wonderful mama.

We are working on the chicken coop and it is almost ready for this sweet family to move into. I will update that later.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T09:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Another Week, Another CSA Box

2011-11-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

Picked up my CSA box for the week. A lot of yummy favorites and some new things to try.

Here is this week's box...

So, what do we have here...apples, pears, lettuce, beets, figs hazelnuts, pear juice, Jerusalem artichokes, butternut squash, quince, and paw paws.

I have never had quince or paw paws before but I am willing to give it a go. I like trying new things. The quince smells really good too.

As I was getting ready to write this I decided to give Henrietta Cluck another peak, she is due to hatch out some little chicks tomorrow after all, and when I peaked in...I heard some little peeps. I will update you on that tomorrow.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

I Am Thankful For...

2011-11-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

Family

Pets

Sunny

Pierre

Chiquita (2003 - 2011)

Kelly (1997 - 2011)

Friends

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Tuesday

2011-11-01T08:12:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, my favorite day of the week. I start out with Oasis, the ladies Bible study at Wellspring, and move on to knitting group. Can't get much better than that...Bible study and knitting. In Oasis we have just finished Job and now are starting on Mark. I look forward to the study.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

The 100 Valleys of the Umpqua

2011-10-31T10:18:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I decided to spend a little time driving around our county and see some of the country we don't see often...The 100 Valleys of the Umpqua.

It was so beautiful with the fall colors. My pictures really don't do it justice.

This is Garden Valley Rd, I actually take this road quite a bit to visit my friend and to pick up my CSA box.

Same road just further down, past my friend's house. This is a Norris Farms blueberry farm.

End of Garden Valley, hmmm...which way to go...We went towards Misty Oaks. We have around 19 wineries in our county. They produce some very good wine.

Found an old barn alongside the road. An interesting thing about our drive is that on this road, heading back East, we are on the other side of the mountain from Garden Valley. It is actually fun driving around Douglas County because of it being hillsides and valleys. You weave around and see some beautiful country. So, we decided to take another spin around and when we came to this sign again...

we decided to turn left and head towards Henry Estate.

The rows and rows of grapevines nestled among the foothills of the mountain were beautiful all dressed up for fall.

As we headed further down the road we turned onto Melqua to head home. It is so picturesque to see the farms nestled at the foot of the hills or tucked in a little valley. Melqua road is on the other side of the river from Garden Valley.

It is perfect for an afternoon drive...the roads are all curvey...perfect for slow driving.

We found another great, old barn as we drove along. We decided we definitively needed to go for more drives and explore our beautiful county.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

A First Visit to the Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Friday afternoon I was invited to go to the pumpkin patch with my honorary granddaughter. I say honorary because she is actually my friend's granddaughter and she shares her with me. I am GB for grandma Beth. She is a little sweetheart.

She is just a little over a year old so walking through this was a little tricky without mom and dad's help.

Even being just a few days before Halloween, there are still a lot of pumpkins left in the patch. A lot to choose from.

These look pretty good.

Just my size.

Hitchin' a ride with grandpa.

It was such a fun afternoon. I love spending time with my adopted family.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

CSA number 4

2011-10-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

Here is what we received in our latest CSA box.

We have delicata squash, Asian pears, regular pears (they have a name but I only know Asian and regular because of shape), apples, Jerusalem artichokes, a watermelon, peppers, hazelnuts, pear and apple juice, and not pictured is a bag of lettuce. There is going to be some good eating going on this next week again. We have been enjoying these boxes a lot.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Fall

2011-10-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

Fall

The old earth is changing;

The seasons turn round.

The autumn leaves flutter

Their way to the ground.

My own world is changing;

The seasons conspire

To grant me the peace

Of a rest by the fire

~Melissa Pinol~

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Christmas Time's a Coming

2011-10-25T15:47:00.000-07:00

I have been knitting up a storm lately. Getting ready for Christmas. I have managed to get a couple of people's gifts finished, now just a few more.

Yesterday, a friend of mine and I headed to Eugene to the yarn shops. I needed a few more supplies to finish some gifts.

Is anyone else making their gifts?

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Projects

2011-10-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

Along with everything else I have been doing, I have also been busy knitting. Here are a few of the projects I have completed...

These socks were designed by Nancy Bush.

Double knit mittens.

Double knit hat.

Mini purse key chain.

Striped mittens.

I have a few more, but due to a certain holiday coming up and a certain young lady who reads my blog, the photos will not be posted yet. She is quite intuitive when she sees what I have knit.

Anyway, all these patterns can be found on the web, except the double knit hat, well, it kinda can...I used the double knit mitten pattern for inspiration. If you are interested in knitting any of these you can find the patterns on ravelry or here.

STRIPED DOUBLE KNIT HAT

Size US 8 dpns or cable needles.

Worsted yarn any color you like.

Gauge: 9 stitches in 2 inches and 11 rows in 2 inches.

Cast on 76. Join without twisting.

K2, P2 rib for 1 inch.

K1, M1 for one round. (For make one, I used knit in the front and back of the same stitch)

Next round, K1, S1.

Next round, Turn work and K1, S1 going counterclockwise (you will be knitting on the inside of the hat).

Next round, turn work (working on outside of hat) and K1, S1.

Next round, turn work (working on inside of hat and counterclockwise) K1, S1.

Continue the last two rows for desired length.

If you want to add stripes, switch the back yarn and front yarn making sure to cross them so you don't have a gap in the join. K1, S1 both sides for desired number of rows, then switch back, crossing yarn again.

When hat is desired length, start decreasing. On this hat I decreased four times evenly, you do as many decreases in a row as you desire, just figure out an even spacing.

Decreases:

Round 1: *Knit 1, S1 17 times, K2 tog (S1, place inside color on cable needle, slip slipped stitch back to left needle and knit 2 together, slip 2 inside yarn to right needle). Repeat from * around. You will have decreased four stitches and should now have 72 stitches for your outside color.

Round 2: K2 tog, K1, S1 17 times. This round is much easier since your inside colors are already together.

Round 3: K1, S1 around.

Round 4: K1, S1 around.

Remaining rounds: Repeat rounds 1-4 decreasing the K1 stitches by one each time. (Rnd 1& 2: 17, Rnd 3 & 4: 16, Rnd 5 & 6: 15, etc.) until you have decreased the circumference by at least half the stitches. Then K2 tog all the way around (slipping inside stitches like previous rounds), then the inside round K2 tog all the way around. Do this for four rounds. Cut yarn about 12" long and thread each on a darning needle (2 needles). Then start slipping the outside layer onto needle and thread like this, slip outside yarn to darning needle, slip inside yarn to knitting needle or cable needle all the way around. DON'T PULL THE YARN TIGHT, you will need to slip the darning needle through the inside (going counterclockwise) and pull that yarn tight before the outside can be finished.

Now just weave in the ends and you are finished.

This pattern was adapted from the double knit mitten pattern you can find here.

If something doesn't make sense or you need or want help, leave me a comment and I will do what I can to help.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Country Life

2011-10-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

So in the spirit of "I miss the country" week, here is one last post (at least for now) on my love of the country...

I have writing and posting pictures about the country in Montana. Well, where I would really love to have a place in the country is here where I live now, at least some days. Let's face it, we look back at our history we tend to romanticize it. I do that with the farm. Yes, I miss the milk cow, chickens, garden, sheep, yada, yada, yada, but if the truth be told...living on a farm is hard work...at least if it is how you make your living. Those wonderful critters and garden also tend to tie you down...no weekends at the coast or trips anywhere else for that matter (unless you find someone who needs a little time in the country to farm sit).

So, I guess it is a good thing I have a friend who lives in the country and has me out and needs a housesitter once in a while. I thoroughly enjoyed my time out there, but was definitely ready to stay home for a while.

One thing I love about gardening here is that just about anything will grow...

and I don't have to grow all of it, unless I want to.

Don't these pears look yummy?

The strawberries are so juicy and full of flavor when they are picked ripe and sold nice and fresh.

...boy do I enjoy the fruits of the land!

One thing I have missed is having chickens and a milk cow. I loved the fresh eggs, milk, cream and all that I could make from them.

Well, I now have a chicken. My dear country friend gave me a hen who was wanting to sit (and some eggs). Soon I will have a few more chickens and in a few months they will start laying and I will once again have fresh eggs from my chickens. What fun.

So, I introduce you to Henrietta Cluck, the newest addition to our family.

She is currently sitting on seven eggs. In about 17 days the chicks should be showing up. Now my dear hubby is going to build me a coop. I will keep you all updated on that project. It is great having a piece of country in town. Love it!

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Country Dreams-Living Simple

2011-10-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

I grew up a town/city girl. I did live in small towns like St. Regis, White Sulpher Springs, Libby, and a larger place Coeur d' Alene, but as far back as I can remember, I have dreamed of living in the country. In fact, I dreamed of living in a very specific place in the country. It is my favorite place (next to where I currently live). This is what it looks like now...

This is on my grandma's ranch...now my dad and aunt's. When we would go visit my grandma, I would spend almost every morning I could here. Grandma would catch the "kid horse" for me and I would ride over this way and dream.

I could picture (and still can) how the house would look right down to the furniture. I don't have a good picture but here is the house now...

There isn't much left anymore. I love how it was situated...nestled by a hill overlooking the range. The first picture on this post is the view from the front of the house.

I also had the barn, chicken coop, and corrals all planned out as well. They were located here...

and believe it or not... all this was planned when I was like 9 to 10 years old. Later, after we moved to this area, I still loved this place and wanted to live here but also planned other places to live...all living simply.

I don't know why I have always felt this way, but I have. I did live in the country for a lot of years too. We moved to the area in 1978 and lived in town first, then out in the country. When I married we lived in the country too. My hubby and I had a farm in Baker. I loved the farm life, just didn't care for the area we lived.

Now, I may live in the city (to me it is a city, everyone else a town), but I still love to live simply. I like to make my own bread, can veggies, and garden. So, even though I no longer live in the country (which was my choice), I am still a country girl at heart. I'm just bringing the country into town.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

This and That

2011-10-17T12:12:00.000-07:00

The other day I posted about making my annual batch of spice tea. Well, after that I needed to find a container to put it in. All my canisters and jars are already in use, so as I was looking around I settled on the orange drink mix container and thought, "I could make this pretty." So...I did.

I grabbed some scrapbook paper and double stick tape and set to work.

I trimmed around the scallops on both sides of the paper, which of course made it too short to cover the can, so I cut a couple strips of a coordinating paper for the top and bottom. Then taped the papers all the way around.

To finish it off I made the cute little tag and tied it on.

Later that Friday afternoon, I went and picked up our third CSA box. It was fully of yummy fruits and veggies again...take a look...

I definitely see some zucchini bread in my future. I used the beets and sweet potato I had for supper. I just peeled, cubed, and lightly oiled them, then roasted them in the oven.

I used a few of the pears to make a baked pear dessert that was yummy. I cored but did peel them, made an oatmeal, brown sugar, and butter topping, which I placed on each pear and let the remainder fall into the pan. I then used 1/2 cup of apple juice (from Growing Crazy Farm) in the bottom of the pan. I baked for one hour and basted the pears 30 minutes into the bake time. They were baked at 350 degrees.

I am going to make some apple turnovers to put in the freezer for my hubby to take on the road with him and a small batch of fig cookies with the figs for me.

I am really enjoying these boxes from Growing Crazy Farm.

Well, thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Fall Crafts

2011-10-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

When we lived in Montana, I did crafts all the time. We owned a farm and were busy in the summers, but during the loooonnnggg, cold winters, I needed something to do-so I crafted.

Since moving here, I haven't had much time to do crafts what with working and Bible study, Awana, and other things to do. Our winters are mild here compared to Montana...we get a lot of rain, but I haven't melted yet (darn) so we do more outdoor activities as well.

It also seems that I lost my creativeness for a while. Nothing really inspired me. I did start knitting because it is something I had always wanted to learn.

Anyhoo...I have been crafting again. I have been seeing some of the really cute things my fellow bloggers have been doing. I am especially loving the garlands and pennants. So when I saw this cute garland in a magazine, I just had to gather the supplies and make it.

I found the instructions in the "all*you" magazine. You can get the templates here. I printed the template and then printed a sheet on the back of the colored paper, then I cut out each leaf and traced around them on the template I first printed until the page was full. Then, I printed all leaves on the scrapbook paper in the pretty fall colors.

Then, came the hard part (at least for me), cutting out all those leaves. The instructions say to cut out eight of each leaf type, but of course I had to do more.

I then strung a piece of yarn along the fireplace and bookcase and proceeded to tie on the leaves. I made it nice and full.

I love all the pretty colors...and the sparkly that catch the light and shine...

I had a few left over so I made a garland for my front door as well. It has less leaves, more like the one in the magazine.

Just adding the garland in the beautiful fall colors really perked up my home. I had a few decorations out, but the garland is a delightful additional.

So, what are you crafting? or thinking about doing? Wanna buy?

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Fall Traditions

2011-10-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Each year when the air becomes crisp and the leaves start to turn, I like to stock up on my favorite foods and drinks. I buy apple cider mix, hot cocoa, and make spiced tea. So, yesterday, I bought the supplies for spiced tea so I could set in my fall and winter supply.

I started by gathering my ingredients, bowl and utensils.

I then added the orange drink mix,

added the tea,

the lemon gelatin,

cinnamon,

cloves,

and nutmeg.

Then a stirring I did do until well mixed. I then promptly made myself a cup. Have to try it out ya know.

Spiced Tea

2 cups orange drink mix

3/4 cup instant tea

1 cup sugar (I leave this out since the orange drink mix and gelatin have a lot in them)

1 small package of lemon gelatin

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon cloves

1 teaspoon nutmeg

Mix all together and store in an airtight container. Place 2-3 teaspoons in a mug of hot water and enjoy!

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Yummy Local Produce

2011-10-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I managed to save up some money and join one of our local CSA's (community-supported agriculture). I had joined one a couple of years ago, but since I lost my job, money has been pretty tight. I have making cutbacks though so I could do this once again.

This is our first box...

We received two jars of pear juice, a big bag of lettuce, tomatoes, basil, peppers, pattypan squash, yellow crookneck squash, apples, pears, plums, and a cucumber.

I am drying the chili peppers and freezing the bell peppers. I love the pattypan fried up with a simple coating on it and dipped in ranch. Of course a nice fresh salad with vine-ripened tomatoes is always great.

This is our second box...

More lettuce and peppers, pear juice, apple juice, eggplant, pattypan, yellow crookneck, pears, apples, and plums.

The farm we are getting these from is called Growing Crazy. A nice young family runs it. You can check out their web page here.

On another note, fall is settling in here. I have decorated a little bit, and my little Sunny boy decided to join in too...

Sweet, little guy. He hid pretty well.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T08:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Shore Acres

2011-09-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite places along the Oregon coast is Shore Acres. It is so beautiful and peaceful. And, depending on the time of year, the flowers change and are brilliant. We went to visit it while my parents were here. It was Dahlia time. How absolutely beautiful. My pictures don't do it justice because I had to use my cell phone, but here are a few...

I love to go through the roses as well. They have such beautiful roses, and the smell is amazing.

This one is called Hot Cocoa. I would like to have this in my yard.

I hope you enjoyed a little tour of the garden at Shore Acres. It was very beautiful.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Puppy Fun

2011-09-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

While I was house sitting, I took my dogs Sunny and Pierre. My friend and I thought they might enjoy running around in the orchard with her two dogs. Well, they did.

Sunny liked to look out the window. There was so much to see and do.

Visiting with the steer. He spent a lot of time just touching noses.

Sweet, little Pierre...he ran his little legs off.

The boys had so much fun my friend and I decided they needed play dates. We went out the other day and of course there was a lot of running and barking and just plain having fun. These little town dogs LOVE the country.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

God's Grace

2011-09-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

For part of my daily Bible reading, I read Ephesians 2:1-6.

1 Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins.2 You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world.t He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.

3 All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else.

4 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much,5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!)6 For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.

As I read this passage this morning verses 4 and 5 jumped out at me. "But God is so RICH in MERCY, and HE LOVED US so much, (5) that even though we were DEAD BECAUSE of our SINS, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!) (emphasis mine).

How awesome is that! How comforting! God loved me so much, and his mercy is so great, that he gave His Son Christ...to save me from a lost life. I am so grateful I had people who loved me and God enough to share this with me. Now I need to share it more, to all the lost and hurting souls, so they too can know God's love for them.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T17:37:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

My Son the Warrior

2011-09-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

So last year my darling daughter participated in the Warrior Dash in North Plains, Oregon.

You can read that post here.

This year, my son was my warrior. My daughter signed him up a while ago and was actually going to compete as well but she moved to Montana and couldn't come back.

Anyhoo...here is the big guy...

Pinning on the number.

My sweet, big guy waiting for the race to start.

And the race begins!

At the fire jump, almost done bub.

Gotta stay low, there is barbed wire above.

That is a lot of mud...

but he had a lot of fun.

I am glad he participated and had fun. Can't wait for next year.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Busy, busy, busy...

2011-09-19T10:03:00.000-07:00

Whew! The past few weeks have been busy, but I am back with lots to tell. So, I think I will start with the time I spent house-sitting for a friend.

While my friend and her husband went on a vacation, I stayed at their house and took care of their dogs, chickens, and plants. Being a farm girl at heart (and formerly living on one) this was AWESOME. I so enjoyed my time out there. Their home is so lovely and the garden beautiful.

This is of the creek and pond they built. The view is from the balcony off the living room.

From same position, turned a little to get the garden. The chicken coop is the building in the back.

More of the garden.

I love the ground cover the planted. These steps lead to the back door.

Some of her pretty flowers.

She picks such interesting plants and flowers and has a gift with landscaping.

I love the ornamental grasses. I wish I had room in my yard for some.

I believe I am going to have to put my Rosemary in the ground so it gets as big as this one.

Some of the wonderful fruit from the orchard.

Ahhhh...a nice peaceful pond with lots of beautiful plants.

Well, that is what I did a couple of weeks ago. I will share more as the week progresses of my adventures.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T08:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T07:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

2011-08-24T09:45:00.001-07:00

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Fall's a comin

2011-08-22T14:04:00.000-07:00

In our neighborhood you can always tell when fall is around the corner and school is about to start, you hear the drums from the middle school marching band practicing everyday during the week. I enjoy hearing them play. Sometimes we even get a few horns in the air.

Right now our lovely, little neighborhood looks like this, but soon the leaves will start changing color, the air will be crisper, the days noticeably shorter, and children walking to and from school.

I will say that I love fall, it's my favorite season. I love the colors, the brisk air in the mornings and warm days. The gardens in our community are producing great quantities of all different veggies and fruit.

I look forward to getting back to Oasis Bible study and helping with Awana, getting that last camping trip before the rains come. I'm looking forward to fall and all the treasures it holds.

What is your favorite season?

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T09:59:00.000-07:00

Tour of Roseburg

2011-08-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't taken you, my dear readers, through any more of Roseburg. Well, while I was surfing the net I found this video on YouTube. I hope you enjoy this tour of Roseburg.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth

Grateful Friday

2011-08-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

Today I am grateful for being able to create and be creative. I truly enjoy spinning and knitting and am thankful that I can do them, as well as other things.

Thanks for stopping by,

Beth