My Useless Crafts and Such

Love, Luck, Leap Monster #2

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is Caryn's second monster for the love, luck, leap swap with Danger Crafts. It is Gort the Gym Bag Monster:

Here is another shot of him:

I thought I would include a monster to help her with Weight Watchers and to battle Iris the Gourmet monster! LOL! This monster took me a little longer than normal since I was changing colors every 3 rows. I was tired of making stripes by the time I got to his arms so I made them solid colors!

Supplies:
Pattern: Gort the Gym Bag Monster from The Big Book of Knitted Monsters by Rebecca Danger
Yarn: Cascade Yarn 220 Wool #7818 - Royal Blue and #7815 - Light Blue
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables

Love, Luck, Leap Swap Other Gifts

2012-02-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

I made Caryn a set of dishcloths to be included in her swap package. Here they are:

Here is a close up:

Come to find out, Caryn needed some new dishcloths. I knew I should have made her more!!!

Supplies:
Pattern: HDC Cloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Peaches N' Creme #W268046 - Billowing Blue
Hook: US H

Love, Luck, Leap Swap Monster #1

2012-02-08T07:00:00.002-05:00

Here is the first monster that I sent to Caryn as part of our love, luck, leap swap with Danger Crafts. Meet Iris:

Here is Iris guarding the indoor grill:

Since Caryn is doing Weight Watchers, I thought I would send her a monster to cause problems with losing weight. Since Iris loves food, this monster will be devil on her counter.

Since she chose a love package, I crocheted a small heart and used it as her belly button.

Supplies:
Pattern: Iris the Gourmet Monster from Danger Crafts and Love Hearts by June Gilbank
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Tonal - Blue Yonder and Knit Picks Palette Yarn - White
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables
Hook: US C

Washboard Dishcloths (or Place Mats)

2012-02-07T08:36:00.000-05:00

I found this pattern recently and I decided to make it. Here it is in solid light blue:

And here it is in billowing blues:

I made the solid blue one first and I thought it was way too big for a dishcloth but a perfect size for a place mat. So I made another one so I at least have a mis-matched pair.

Supplies:
Pattern: Washboard Dishcloth by Priscilla Hewitt
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #00026 - Light Blue & Peaches N' Cream #W268046 - Billowing Blues
Hook: US G (4.00mm)

Granny's Heart Filet Motif Dishcloth in Pink

2012-02-04T07:00:00.002-05:00

I came across this pattern in the Dishcloths R Us forum in Ravelry. It is for February CAL (Crochet-A-Long). Here it is:

This pattern has a variation to make the the heart open or solid and I wanted to make them solid so it could be seen easier. This dishcloth is much bigger than I am used to, 10-1/2" squared. It did woek up rather quickly too!

Supplies:

Pattern: Granny's Heart Filet Motif by Priscilla Hewitt

Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #18046 - Rose Pink

Hook: US H/4.00 mm

Morning Glory Tizzy

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are anothet set of tunisian crochet dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

This pattern is crocheted on the diagonal to practice increasing and decreasing. It was a simple pattern to make, they just need to blocked to stop the curling in the corners.

Supplies:
Pattern: Tizzy by Beth Graham
Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Cotton #W275722 - Morning Glory
Hook: Tunisian Crochet Hook H on 24" Cables

Crochet Hook Comparison

2012-02-01T07:00:00.014-05:00

Today, I am discussing a few different types of crochet hooks that I have in my collection.

Boye Aluminum Crochet Hooks

These are the ones that my mother always used so these are the ones are learned on. They are reasonably priced at under $2 each and come in a large variety of sizes. They are available everywhere from Joann's, Michaels, AC Moore to Wal-Mart. I have been using these for a while until December when I started getting a cramp in my hand from crocheting too long while making Christmas presents. I needed to look for alternatives.

Clover Soft Touch

These were the help I needed from my cramping hands. These hooks feel weird in your hands at first but I got used to them. I was able to crochet longer without a problem. These are priced between $6 and $9 each and come in sizes C through J. These are available in craft stores like Joann's, Michael's and AC Moore and on-line at various knitting websites.

Knitter's Pride Aluminum Hooks

Then I discovered these!!! OMG, I'm in love! These also solved the hand cramping like the Clover ones but are not as ackward and feel more natural in my hands. These sell for $2.99 each and are available at Web's on-line or in Northampton, MA. These are available in sizes B through J.

After Christmas, I purchased the full set of Clover Soft Touch hooks. Then I ordered a size 7 crochet hook from Knitter's Pride to give it a try since I did not have that size. After using it, I needed all of them! So I sold my Clover ones to someone on Ravelry and bought the whole set of Knitter's Pride hooks at Web's this past Saturday during my recent visit! I am so glad that I did! These are amazing and comfortable!

The Journey Home - Michael Baron

2012-01-30T09:30:00.000-05:00

Summary from GoodReads: Joseph, a man in his late thirties, awakens disoriented and uneasy in a place he doesn't recognize. Several people are near him when he opens his eyes, all strangers. All of them seem perfectly friendly, but none of them can explain to him how he got there. They offer him a delicious meal and pleasant conversation in a beautifully decorated room. This would be a very nice experience if not for one thing: Joseph doesn't know where he is and he has no way to contact his wife, who he is sure is worried sick over him. Thanking the people for their hospitality, he leaves to make his way back home. The only problem is that whatever happened to him has stripped him of most of his memories. He knows he needs to get back to his wife, but he doesn't know how to find her. He sets out on a journey to find his home with no sense of where he's going and only the precious, indelible vision of the woman he loves to guide him.

Antoinette is an elderly woman in an assisted living facility. She’s spent the last six years there since her husband died, and most of those years have been happy. She enjoys the company of others in her situation and her son comes to visit often. But in recent months, she’s had a tougher and tougher time leaving her room. Her friends seem different to her and the world seems increasingly confusing. She spends an escalating amount of time on a journey inside her head. There, her body and mind haven’t betrayed her. There, she’s a young newlywed with a husband who dotes on her and an entire life of dreams to live. There, she is truly home.

Warren, Antoinette’s son, is a man in his early forties going through the toughest year of his life. His marriage ended, he lost his job, and in the past few months, his mother has gone from hale to increasingly hazy. Having trouble finding work, he spends more and more time by his mother’s bedside. But her lack of lucidity both frustrates and frightens him. With far too much time on his hands, he decides to try to recreate his memories of home by attempting to cook his mother’s greatest dishes using the rudimentary appliances available in her room. He finds the challenge surprisingly rewarding, especially because the only time he feels his mother is truly with him anymore is when she is eating the meals he prepares for her.

Joseph, Antoinette, and Warren are three people on different searches for home. How they find it, and how they connect with one another at this critical stage in each of their lives, is the foundation for a profound and deeply moving story.

This was a heartfelt story about Joseph, Antoinette and Warren and how their search for home came together. Antoinette lived in a retirement community where her son, Warren visited her daily. Warren lost his job and is getting divorced but visits his mother every day to amke her lunch. Along the way, he become close to Jan, a nurse in the community. Joseph is on a missio. To discover who he is, where he lives and how is in his life. All three stories come together in a unique way in the end.

Yellow Granny Dishcloths

2012-01-28T07:00:00.001-05:00

I was in the mood to crochet granny dishcloths this past weekend. Can you tell??? Here are another set:

Here is a close up:

This time I did 6 rounds and added the single crochet border.

Supplies:
Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #18010 - Yellow
Hook: US G

Knitter's Pride Tunisian Crochet Hooks

2012-01-27T07:00:00.010-05:00

I wanted to write a review of my newest toys, Knitter's Pride Tunisian Crochet Hooks, that I purchased from Web's in Northampton, MA. Here they are:

Here is a single Tunisian crochet hook:

Product Description: Knitter's Pride Dreamz Interchangeable Tunisian Crochet Hook Set includes US sizes E, G, 7, H, I, J, K, and L. This set also contains 4 cables (one 24", two 32", and one 40"), cable connectors, 8 end caps, 4 cable keys, and a clear vinyl case. These beautiful hooks are made of strong, lightweight wood with a polished surface that ensures effortless glide and a groove that prevents stitch slippage. The hooks come in a palette of beautiful colors that are easy to identify and organize. The resilient, no-kink cables easily connect to the hook tips with a smooth join that enables superior stitch glide without snagging. They sell for $54.99.

OMG, these are the smoothest crochet hooks that I have ever used! I love how they not as slippery as metal hooks but not as grippy as bamboo. So far, I have only made 3 dishcloths with these hooks but I found it to be a pleasant experience. I also love how each hook is a different color for easy identification. The size is stamped on the hook and is engraved on the nickel base so you don't have to question the size. This is a plus over my Knit Picks knitting needles that are not stamped.

To use with this set, I purchased one set of 40", 47" and 60" cables. I also purchased some other hooks that were not included in the set. They are the size F (3.75 mm), M/N (9.00 mm), N/P (10.00 mm) and 12.00 mm. Two of them are on backorder and should be arriving soon!

I am going to try using these hooks to learn knooking too! I'll let you know how that works out later on! I would highly recommend these hooks!!!

Paprika Tunisian Intro Cloth

2012-01-26T07:00:00.002-05:00

I have some new toys, Tunisian Crochet Hooks from Knitter's Pride. Here are my first dishcloths using the tunisian simple stitch:

Here is a close up:

I made my first one using a size H hook and it was too tight. The dishcloth is still usable but it was very hard to work. Then I tried making it with a size J hook. I like how it is a little looser and does not curl as much using this one!

Supplies:
Pattern: Tunisian Intro Cloth by Hailey Redden
Yarn: Lion Brand Lion Cotton Solid #133 - Paprika
Hooks: Tunisian H & J on 24" Cables

Billowing Blue Granny Dishcloth

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

I made some more granny dishcloths. Here they are:

Here is a close up:

I like how these came out using the size G hook. It is so much tighter for better scrubbing. I also did 7 rounds of the pattern and added a single crochet border. It looks more finished now!

Supplies:
Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412
Yarn: Peaches N' Creme #W268046 - Billowing Blue
Hook: US G

Hannah's Journey - Anna Schmidt

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: What could bring an Amish widow and a wealthy circus owner together? Though Hannah Goodloe knew she'd violated countless unwritten laws, she had to visit the only man who could help find her runaway son. But when the enigmatic Levi Harmon agreed to take her on his train, the results were utterly unpredictable.

Levi never expected to find the embodiment of all he wanted in a woman in the soft-spoken, plainly dressed Hannah. And for Hannah, to love an outsider was to be shunned. The simple pleasures of family, faith and place to belong seemed an impossible dream. Unless Levi unlocked his past and opened his heart to God's plan.

This story takes place in the mid-1920's in Florida. I have never read an Amish book whose community was from here. Hannah, along with her sister in law and father in law, take a train ride with the circus to find her son Caleb who ran away with the circus. It was discovered early that he was safe but the train had to make it's way to back to Wisconsin. The trip was interesting as they were in contact with circus performers but they stuck to their Plain ways.

Once they arrived in Wisconsin, Hannah and Levi developed feeling for each other. Hannah could not let those feeling grow since Levi was not Amish. As the book progressed, so did their relationship.

I have never read a historical Amish fiction book before, never mind one with the circus as well. I thought the book was just okay while they were traveling on the train. I enjoyed it more once the story shifted to Amish life. I was very pleased with how this story played out.

Monsters = Happiness

2012-01-20T09:34:00.000-05:00

I made some monsters for a co-worker's children. Here they are enjoying their new friends:

Teagan with Lurleen

Gavin with Maddox

They love them! Teagan even taught Lurleen how to use the potty since she is learning too! LOL! Thanks Tara for letting me share these happy monster pictures!

Aquarius HDC Cloths

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some more crocheted dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

I am adding to my stash of completed projects since it shrank with Christmas.

Supplies:
Pattern: HDC Cloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Cotton #W - Aquarius
Hook: US 8/H

Iris in Prints

2012-01-13T07:00:00.002-05:00

I decided to make myself a new monster. Meet Fruit Loop (a/k/a Iris the Gourmet Monster):

Here is a picture of her alone:

I was working on her second leg at work and someone commented that the yarn reminded her of Fruit Loops cereal. So I named her Fruit Loop! I really enjoyed making Iris. The instructions for the foot were super clear and I did not screw them up!!! I will be making her again soon, maybe with super bulky yarn so Dot has a friend.

Supplies:
Pattern: Iris the Gourmet Monster by Rebecca Danger
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Encore Colorspun Worsted #7137 - Prints
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables

Lurleen in Purple

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is Lurleen the Laundry Monster:

She sure did get into a lot of trouble in my laundry room the other day.

This is for my co-worker, Tara, daughteer Teagan. I was originally trying to make her a Jerry the Musical Monkey in fingering weight yarn and it was just going nowhere fast. I put that project aside for when I have more ambition.

Supplies:
Pattern: Lurleen the Laundry Monster by Rebecca Danger from The Big Book of Monsters
Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Encore Colorpun Worsted #7139
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables

Pansy HDC Cloth

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some crocheted dishcloths:

Here is one close up:

This is one of my favorite patterns to crochet! It is great for mindless crocheting while watch TV.

Supplies:
Pattern: HDC Cloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton #W275769 - Pansy
Hook: US 8/H

The Keeper: A Novel (Stoney Ridge Season #1) - Suzanne Woods Fisher

2012-01-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: Julia Lapp has planned on marrying Paul Fisher since she was a girl. Now twenty-one, she looks forward to their wedding with giddy anticipation. When Paul tells her he wants to postpone the wedding—again—she knows who is to blame. Perpetual bachelor and spreader of cold feet, Roman Troyer, the Bee Man.

Roamin' Roman travels through the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania with his hives full of bees, renting them out to farmers in need of pollinators. He relishes his nomadic life, which keeps him from thinking about all he has lost. He especially enjoys bringing his bees to Stoney Ridge each year. But with Julia on a mission to punish him for inspiring Paul's cold feet, the Lapp farm is looking decidedly less pleasant.

Can Julia secure the future she's always dreamed of? Or does God have something else in mind?

Full of the plot twists and surprises her fans love, The Keeper is the first in a new series by bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher. Through touching family relationships and trials of the heart, Fisher's vivid characters grapple with yielding to God's will when it doesn't match their own.

Julia Lapp is the eldest daughter of Amos and has been rsponsible for her 3 younger silngs since her mother passed. All she wants is to marry Paul Fisher but the Bee Man came to town again and it got Paul to postpone their wedding. Julia has never like Roman but especially now. Roman comes to Lancaster every spring with his bees to help pollinate the crops. This year he says around longer on the Lapp's farm to help out since Amos is really sick. Everyone else is mesmerized by his looks and his behavior except Julia.

Will Julia win Pauk back? Will Roman build some roots at Stoney Ridge Farm?

I really enjoyed this story! I cannot wait to read more about the Lapp family. I loved how the story came together in the end too. A special thanks to Baker Publishing for allowing me to review an advanced copy of this book!

Available January 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Batik DW Darrell Waltrip Dishcloth

2012-01-09T08:37:00.001-05:00

Here are some knitted dishcloths:

And now for a close up:

I thought this yarn was perfect for this pattern. It shows off all the bright colors!

Supplies:

Pattern: DW Darrell Waltrip Dishcloth by Rhonda White

Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Creme #102002 - Batik

Needles: US 7 pn 24" Cables

Third Time is a Charm Winter Hat

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

I finally got it right!!! Here is hubby's snowmobile hat:

Do you believe that he requested another hat in gray this time??? I told him that I am making myself one first since I tried three times to make his hat! LOL!

Supplies:
Pattern: Regular Guy Beanie by Chuck Wright
Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable #01040 - Black, #01044 - True Grey and #01532 - Claret
Needles: US 6 on 47" Cables

North Carolina Frances

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

I made this monster for my very special friend Abby!

Here she is posing for the camera:

And getting into mischieve around my house:

Abby is a co-worker's daughter that my hubby and I have become close to. They are moving to North Carolina at the end of January. I wanted to make this for her so she would not forget me! We have all spent lots of time together hanging out and camping over the past few years. I am really going to miss all of them but Abby especially! I wish them all lots of luck in their newest adventure to NC!

Supplies:
Pattern: Frances The Charismatic Monster by Rebecca Danger
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft #9719 - Soft Pink
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables
Accessories: 12mm Black Safety Eyes, Embroidery Floss, Ribbon

Albert the Boss

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a monster for my boss for his 61st birthday which is today:

I made this monster because last year I made him a bucket filled with 60 lollipops that read "60 Sucks!" and I am sticking with the old theme. I just need to make a name tag for him so he will always remember his name! LOL!

Supplies:
Pattern: Albert the Absent Minded Monster by Rebecca Danger of Danger Crafts
Yarn: Cascade Yarn 220 Wool - Orange
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables
Accessories: 12mm Black Safety Eyes, Embroidery Floss

Hershey Update

2012-01-03T09:18:00.001-05:00

Things are going very well with Hershey! We are on day #8 of no accidents in the house! Yeah!

Here are some new pictures of him from Christmas:

Hiking in the woods with Daddy on Christmas Eve:

And here is my favorite picture of him:

I love those big brown eyes!!!

2012 Resolutions

2012-01-01T07:00:00.010-05:00

Happy 2012 Everyone!

Here is a list of my things I want to accomplish in 2012 (in no particular order):

1. Loose 20+ pounds
2. Complete my UFOs (unfinished objects) - I have only 2 projects to complete but they are haunting me! LOL!
3. Use more of my stash yarn and buy less
4. Knit this sweater for myself
5. Knit more Danger Crafts monsters
6. Knit more socks for hubby and I
7. Learn to crochet socks
8. Learn to crochet doilies
9. Learn continental knitting
10. Work on my scrapbooks
11. Read 50 books (I read 40 in 2011)
12. Try reading different authors

An Amish Christmas - Cynthia Keller

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: Meg Hobart has everything: a happy marriage to a handsome, successful husband, a beautiful home in Charlotte, North Carolina, and three wonderful children. But it all comes crashing down around her the day she learns that her husband, James, has been living a lie—and has brought the family to financial ruin. Penniless and homeless, the Hobarts pack up what little they still possess and leave behind their golden life for good. But it’s not the material things Meg finds herself mourning. Instead, she misses the certainty that she should remain married to James, who has betrayed her trust so thoughtlessly. Worse, she is suddenly very aware of just how spoiled her children have become. Meg wonders what her family has really sacrificed in their pursuit of the American dream.

A frightening twist of fate forces the Hobarts to take refuge with a kind Amish family in Pennsylvania, where they find themselves in a home with no computers, no cell phones, nothing the children consider fashionable or fun. Her uncooperative brood confined to the Amish world of hard work and tradition, their futures entirely uncertain, Meg fears she can never make her family whole again.

Celebrating life’s simplest but most essential values, packed with laughter and tears, this is a story of forgiveness and the power of love. You will never forget the special moment in time that is An Amish Christmas.

The Hobarts life was overturned in what seemed like a moments notice to Meg. Her husband lost his job and all of their life savings and assets in a phony investment scam. They must pack everything they own into a Ford Mustang and are heading to Meg's parents house in upstate New York where they will live and work until they get their lives back in order. Along the way, they decide to stop in Lancaster, PA overnight to learn about the Amish and find a place to sleep. They get into a car accident with a horse and buggy on a snowy and icy evening. Thankfully no one was hurt but the car needs a lot of work to get it in working order. The Amish family involved in the accident takes the whole family in with open arms until their car is ready.

Along the way, they learn about themselves and realize that being disconnected from the world has changed their lives in more than one way. Although the two older children were difficult when they first got there, everyone was impacted by the love and friendship of this Amish family.

This was a wonderful Christmas story about love, friendship, forgiveness, family and community. It definitely reinforces the fact that everything happens for a reason.

Paw Dishcloth

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

I finally knitted my first picture dishcloth. Here it is:

It was not as hard as I imagined! These picture dishcloths do require you to pay attention and they do not have a pattern to it that can easily be memorized. It was fun to make though. I will make more of these again!

Supplies:
Pattern: Paw by Amy-lynne Mitchell
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton #W260936 - Boogie Blue
Needles: US 5 on 24" Cables

Cool Christmas Presents

2011-12-27T08:47:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! I sure did! Here are two gifts that I received from hubby that I had to share with my fellow knitters:

Shirt #1

Shirt #2

I also received some gifts cards for iTunes, Amazon, Applebees, Longhorn Steakhouse and Macy's along with some sweaters, scrapbooking supplies, candles, bath soaps, baking stoneware and bluetooth speaker for my iPad.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T07:00:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!

Too Big Winter Hat

2011-12-22T07:00:00.002-05:00

OMG, do you believe this? This hat is now too big.

Well at least now I can have hubby put it on and figure out how many less stitches to do for the third try. But I need to make a few things first because I am sick of making hats that don't fit! LOL!

Update: I found a home for this hat! Dia, can you guess who???? He was very grateful!

Supplies:
Pattern: Regular Guy Beanie by Chuck Wright
Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable #01040 - Black, #01044 - True Grey and #01532 - Claret
Needles: US 6 on 47" Cables

Cherry Pink Hexagon Dishcloth

2011-12-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

I have been wanting to try making this dishcloth for a little while. Now that I am done making Christmas presents, I can. Here it is:

I didn't have enough yarn to add a scalloped border on the second one.

This was a fun and easy pattern to memorize. It worked up quickly too!

Supplies:
Pattern: Crochet Hexagon Dishcloth by Mary Ellen Wells
Yarn: Peaches N' Creme #218 - Cherry Pink
Hook: US 7/G

Crocheted Ponytail Holders

2011-12-17T07:00:00.012-05:00

Here's a cute little stash buster project:

Here is the close up of one of them:

In all honesty, these took maybe 10 minutes each to make by using the scraps of leftover cotton yarn from my dishcloths. I can't wait for my hair to be long enough to use them myself. For now, I am giving them away to my co-worker's that have daughters. I need to make more purple ones by request though! LOL!

Supplies:
Pattern: Ponytail Holders from All Free Crochet
Yarn: Leftover Sugar N' Cream Yarn
Hook: US 8/H

Mistletoe Granny Dishcloths

2011-12-16T07:00:00.002-05:00

Here are some festive holiday colored dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

There are 8 dishcloths here. Four are for my hubby's co-workers and the other four were a special request from two co-workers to purchase. I do want to try and make some more just to see how many I can get out of one 12 oz skein of cotton yarn. I am thinking that I may be able to get 2 or 3 more out of it, we'll have to wait and see.

Supplies:

Pattern: Granny's Diahcloth #2412

Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton #W277586 - Mistletoe Ombre

Hook: US 7/G

Scrap Granny Dishcloths

2011-12-15T07:00:00.004-05:00

This is the final set of dishcloths for my MIL:

I love that the striped yarn worked out this way. I did not plan it but I am glad that it worked out like this!

Supplies:

Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412

Yarn: Lion Brand Cotton Solid #108 - Morning Glory Blue, #112 - Poppy Red and Lily's Sugar N' Cream Stripes #23705 - Americana Stripes

Hook: US 7/G

Morning Glory Granny Dishcloths

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm getting to the end of my yarn to make dishcloths for my MIL for Christmas. Here's another set of blue ones:

Here is a close up:

As you can tell, I really love this pattern. I think it is my go-to crochet dishcloth pattern. I can complete one in under an hour.

Supplies:
Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412
Yarn: Lion Brand Cotton Solid #108 - Morning Glory Blue
Hook: US 7/G

My Winter First Hat

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a hat that I made for my hubby:

He announced in Webs a couple of weekends ago that he wanted me to make him a hat with three colors, gray, black and red to match his snowmobile. I told him that I need to find a pattern first and I wanted to wait for a sale on yarn instead of buying it at Web's for $4.99 a skein. These were on sale 2 for $5 at Michael's!

This was my first time making stripes! After reading about making jogless stripes, these came out perfect! I am so happy with it! I now have enough yarn to make several more of these by mixing up the colors since I only used about 100 yards for one.

Unfortunately, this hat was too small to fit hubby. I have figured out how to adjust the pattern and I will be trying again to make it for him. This hat was bought by a co-worker to give to her nephew for Christmas so it will be put to good use.

Supplies:
Pattern: Regular Guy Beanie by Chuck Wright
Yarn: Loops & Threads Impeccable #01532 - Claret, #01040 - Black and #01044 - True Grey
Needles: US 6 on 32" Cables

A Plain and Fancy Christmas - Cynthia Keller

2011-12-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: Raised in a Pennsylvania Amish community, young mother Rachel Yoder has led a simple life within her close-knit family. Widowed three years ago, she has moved back in with her parents, attempting to raise her daughter, Katie, without further emotional upheaval. Meanwhile, four hours and a whole world away in New York City, Ellie Lawrence is laser-focused on a high-powered public relations career, with too little time for her family, her friends, or even her boyfriend.

Then one fateful day, these two very different women receive shocking news of a mistake made three decades earlier and long kept hidden: Shortly after their births, the two were accidentally switched in the hospital. Shaken to the core by this momentous news, Rachel and Ellie are plunged into an exploration of who they are and where they really belong. While Ellie is eager to learn more about her Amish family and their life in the countryside, Rachel cannot help but feel jealous as she watches the only mother she has ever known bonding so easily with her natural daughter. But Rachel also knows that her own biological family is out there, and with Katie at her side she heads for Manhattan, where she establishes a connection with the raucous, spirited Lawrences.

As Ellie and Rachel make their way through unfamiliar landscapes, they face life-altering challenges and grapple with a crucial question: Will their old conventions and desires give way to new customs and yearnings? With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, it takes the love of two families for Rachel and Ellie to discover their own paths to fulfillment and happiness.

Rachel and Ellie were switched at birth in the hospital by accident 28 years ago. The nurse who discovered the secret was protecting her alcoholic husband from losing his medical license if it got out sent a letter to the two girls explaining the situation. Rachel tucked the letter away to be forgotton but Ellie wanted to meet her other family. They both got a taste of their life that should have been and both came to some realizations about their lives and its affect on everyone involved.

This is the first book that I read from Cynthia Keller. I really enjoyed it! It was a nice and different Amish story that was a pleasant change from most other Amish stories. I am looking forward to reading An Amish Christmas by Cynthia Keller next!

Hershey's Cloths

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some little paw shaped washcloths for Hershey:

I used some leftover scraps for these.

Supplies:

Pattern: Washcloths for Dog Tear Eyes by Sara Sach

Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19014 Chocolate Ombre

Hook: US 8/H

Meet Hershey!

2011-12-08T07:00:00.020-05:00

I have been meaning to introduce you to Hershey, our new puppy who is a 14 week old chocolate labradoodle.

This picture was taken on the first day we brought him home. He has been a wonderful dog! He is so stinken smart too, that's the poodle in him! He has already learned sit, stay, come, to play fetch and is working on how to stand up on his hind legs.

Here is a picture of him hanging out with me on Monday:

I am so glad that he is a part of our family! He has helped both of us heal from the loss of Simba.

Red Ribbed Dishcloths

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are a set of knitted dishcloths for my MIL:

Here is a close up:

I can't believe how long it takes to knit dishcloths instead of crocheting them. I'm making her last two sets by crocheting them! LOL!

Supplies:

Pattern: Dishcloth - Ribbed

Yarn: Lion Brand Lion Cotton Solid #112 - Poppy Red

Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

Soft Pink Clapochet

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is my first clapochet:

Here is the full length of it:

I made this for my mother for Christmas. I started this on 11/14 and I ripped it apart on 11/15 and started all over. After looking at pictures of other finished ones, I realized that I was counting my last 2 TR incorrectly. No wonder it looked funky! I also changed my hook from a J to a E! I love the way it came out! It is much tighter and neater! I need to make one of these for me now! LOL!

Supplies:
Pattern: Clapochet by Crochet Kitten
Yarn: Caron Simply Soft #9719 - Soft Pink
Hook: US 3.50 mm/E

A Plain and Simple Christmas - Amy Clipston

2011-11-30T07:00:00.002-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: In the tradition of her widely popular Kauffman Amish Bakery series, author Amy Clipston tells the tale of Anna Mae McDonough who was shunned by her family four years ago when she left her Amish community in Lancaster County, PA, to marry an Englisher (non Amish) man and move with him to Baltimore. Now, eight months pregnant when her first child, she longs to return home for Christmas to reconcile with her family, especially her stern father, who is the religious leader for her former Amish church district. So Anne Mae writes a letter to Kathryn Beiler, her brother's wife, to enlist her help. Kathryn asks her husband, David, if she should arrange Anna Mae's visit. David cautions her that a visit would cause too much stress in the family and instead suggests they visit Anna Mae and her husband in the spring. However, Kathryn arranges the visit anyway, believing in her heart that it's God's will for the family to heal.When Anna Mae arrives in Lancaster for Christmas, she doesn't receive the welcome she expects and her world begins to fall apart, leaving her to question her place in her family and her faith in God.

A book filled with love, the pain of being separated from one's family, and the determination to follow God's will regardless of the outcome, A Plain and Simple Christmas is an inspiring page-turner that will keep you guessing what happens next right to the very last page.

Anna Mae and her Englisher husband, Kellan, want to visit Anna's family at Christmas. They are expecting their first child and wants the child to know her family. After being shunned from her family for three years, she longs to see all of them and have them back in her life. She contacts her sister-in-law, Kathryn, to discuss the idea and to make plans for their visit. Will her family welcome her with open arms? Will it be a Christmas miracle to reconcile?

I loved this story! I have read several Amish stories that involved shunned family members and this one showed how a shunning affects the whole family. Some family members welcomed her openly, some were reserved and others forbidded to even talk to her. In this story, Anna Mae has a wonderful, loving and caring Christian husband who care for her dearly. Since he has no family of his own left, except for a sister in California, he is willing to help make ammends with Anna's family. It shows how families can come together and reconcile with upcoming births especially at the holidays. Thanks Amy for another wonderful Amish Christmas book!

The Christmas Singing: A Romance from the Heart - Cindy Woodsmall

2011-11-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: After Gideon coldly broke her heart, can the warmth of the season revive Mattie’s hopes?

Mattie thought her childhood sweetheart adored her until he abruptly ended their engagement on Christmas Eve.

Three years later, will learning the truth behind his rejection restore her Christmas joy – or open the door to even deeper heartbreak?

Spend Christmas with the Amish in this story of love, romance, heartache, and restoration.

When Mattie loses everything athat she had worked so hard for in a fire, she returns home to visit her mother around the holidays. When she arrives, she runs into Gideon, her former boyfriend, which she has not seen in three years. They ended on hard term believing that he was in love with an Englisher. Yet he was hiding the truth to protect Mattie. Will Mattie find out the truth? Will she forgive him and reconcile?

I really enjoyed this book! It is the first that I have read from Cindy Woodsmall and it will not be my last. But I must admit one thing, this book made me hungry. As Mattie describes the different cakes she made for Lizzie and Beth to sample for their wedding cakes. I wish I cold have sampled them! LOL! The was a delightful Christmas story that warmed my heart.

Naomi's Gift: An Amish Christmas Story - Amy Clipston

2011-11-22T07:00:00.002-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: Take a trip to Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, where you'll meet the women of the Kauffman Amish Bakery in Lancaster County. As each woman's story unfolds, you will share in her heartaches, trials, joys, dreams ... and secrets. You'll discover how the simplicity of the Amish lifestyle can clash with the 'English' way of life---and the decisions and consequences that follow. Most importantly, you will be encouraged by the hope and faith of these women, and the importance they place on their families.

Naomi's Gift re-introduces twenty-four-year-old Naomi King, who has been burned twice by love and has all but given up on marriage and children. As Christmas approaches---a time of family, faith, and hope for many others---Naomi is more certain than ever her life will be spent as an old maid, helping with the family's quilting business and taking care of her eight siblings. Then she meets Caleb, a young widower with a 7-year-old daughter, and her world is once again turned upside-down. Naomi's story of romantic trial and error and youthful insecurities has universal appeal.

Author Amy Clipston artfully paints a panorama of simple lives full of complex relationships, and she carefully explores cultural differences and human similarities, with inspirational results. Naomi's Gift includes all the details of Amish life that Clipston's fans enjoy, while delivering the compelling stories and strong characters that continue to draw legions of new readers.

Naomi King has been heartbroken twice and has been labeled as an "eager" woman. Caleb comes into town for the Christmas holiday to spend time with his family in Lancaster County. He is a widower with a seven year old daughter, Susie. Susie meets Naomi at the famer's market while she is working at the quilt stand for her family's store. Susie is instantly connected to Naomi and their friendship blossoms the more time they spend together. Caleb wants to meet Naomi but his nosy sister Sadie has someone else in mind for him. Will Caleb and Naomi become friends? Will Caleb go back to Ohio? Will Naomi's heart get broken again?

I love these books! The characters are so well developed! I loved how Amy brought the familiar characters from the Kauffman series back for this festive holiday read. After the holidays, I am going to sit down and finish the Kauffman Bakery series because I fall in love with them each time. There are several Christmas Amish books that I would like to read before the holiday first. Thanks Amy for another great story!

Americana Granny

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is another set of my MIL's Christmas dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

I'm still not sure how I feel about this pattern of dishcloth with striped yarn. I guess that I am expecting it to work out evenly and it never will. I'll have to get over it!

Supplies:

Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412

Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #23705 - American Stripes

Hook: US 4.5/G

Lydia's Charm - Wanda E. Brunstetter

2011-11-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: Visit Amish Country during the fall as Lydia King attempts to make Charm, Ohio, feel like home after losing her husband. But is her heart ready to open back up to love when gifts appear on her porch from a mystery source? Could it be from the widowed father of four energetic boys, or is it from the man who has rejected romance to be his family’s caregiver? When life hands Lydia another challenge, will the gift giver be there to support her?

Lydia moves from Illinois back to Ohio to be with her mother and grandfather. She lost her husband and her job and has nothing holding her there. As she gets to know people in the new community, she first meets Levi who works in the general store owned by his parents. Then she meets Menno who is a widower with four active boys. Menno is looking for a wife and mother to his four boys. Lydia has many challenges in Charm including finding a new love. What will become of Lydia in Charm? Was the move worth it?

I loved this story by Wanda Brunstetter. Lydia's story is a rough one with too many losses for one person to deal with in a short period of time. But it proves that with family and faith, she could make it through it. I loved how this story ended, it made me happy!

Thanks to Net Galley and Barbour Publishing for allowing me to review this book!

Happy 39th Birthday to Me!

2011-11-18T07:00:00.002-05:00

Wow, I can't believe that this is my 39th birthday. Where did the time go???

Here is a picture of Jay and I with two celebrities whose birthdays are also today:

This picture is from our trip to Walt Disney World from last year. Jay took me there for my birthday so we could celebrate it together!

Ruby's Morning Clory Blue Dishcloth

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's another set of my MIL's Christmas dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

I love making this pattern with solid colored yarn!

Supplies:
Pattern: Ruby's Dishcloth by Jill Foerster
Yarn: Lion Brand Lion Cotton Solid #108 - Morning Glory Blue
Hook: US 3.75/F

Ruby's Red Dishcloth

2011-11-16T07:00:00.002-05:00

Here is my first set of dishcloths for my MIL for Christmas:

Here is a close up:

She requested lots of homemade dishcloths for Christmas. She loves how they come out and how well they work in the kitchen. She'll have more than plenty for quite a while once I am done making all of these.

Supplies:
Pattern: Ruby's Dishcloth by Jill Foerster
Yarn: Lion Brand Lion Cotton Solid #112 - Poppy Red
Hook: US 3.75/F

Panorama Fire Blossom Dishcloth

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

I decided to make my first round dishcloth. Here it is:

I really liked how this turned out. This was also my first time using front post double crochets (FPDC). I like the way they came out.

Supplies:
Pattern: Fire Blossom Dishcloth
Yarn: Peaches N' Creme #278453 - Panorama
Hook: US 5/H

Finished Bird Cage Blanket

2011-11-14T07:35:00.000-05:00

Here is the finished bird cage blanket:

I attached the block by doing a single crochet with the back sides facing each other. Then after attaching all the squares and rows, I added a single crochet border to tie it together followed by a double crochet row and finishing it with a single crochet. I really like the way this came out!

Supplies:
Pattern: None
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver - Navy
Hook: US 5/H & US 5.5/I

Baby Blanket Square

2011-11-12T08:42:00.000-05:00

We discovered that we needed one more 12" square for the co-worker's baby blanket that we are making. So I made one more:

I did 9 rounds of pattern followed by one round of single crochets to finish it!

Supplies:
Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412 by Bernat Design Studio
Yarn: Lion Brand's Vanna's Choice #000 - Linen
Hook: US 8/H

Granny Loves Licorice

2011-11-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's another set of Granny dishcloths:

Here is a close up of the first one:

Here is a close up of the second one:

I like these so much better using the smaller hook and varigated yarn! This project combines my current two favorite projects: dishcloths and granny squares! Love it!

Supplies:
Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412 by Bernat Design Studio
Yarn: Peaches N' Creme #210 - Licorice
Hook: US 7/G

Granny Dishcloths in Pinky Stripes

2011-11-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some cool granny square dishcloths:

Here is one up close:

I like how these turned out! I am going to make them again but I am going to use a smaller hook to make it a little tighter. Plus I am going to use a varigated yarn versus a stripped yarn.

Supplies:
Pattern: Granny Dishcloth #2412 by Bernat Design Studio
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton #00732 - Pinky Stripes
Hook: US 8/H

Bird Cage Blanket - Block #2

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are the rest of of the blocks for the bird cage blanket:

Color #1

Color #2

Color #3

Color #4

Oops, I miss counted. I had to make 2 more of the light blue and green to make a square blanket. I did not get pictures of them since I added the border too. Next, I need to add a border to each block, attach them and add a final border to the whole blanket.

Supplies:
Pattern: Free SmoothFox's Charity Square Nbr 2 by Donna Mason-Svara
Yarn: Wintuk Omber #3028 - Spice & Red Heart Super Saver - Rainbow Brights & Lion Brand Vanna's Choice #173 & #105
Hook: US 8/H

Ruby's White Dishcloths

2011-11-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a new crocheted dishcloth pattern:

Here is a close up:

I love this pattern! It creates a nice thick texture! I may use this pattern again!

Supplies:
Pattern: Ruby's Dishcloth by Jill Foerster
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #18001 - White & #01317 - Hot Purple
Hook: US F

Heaven is for Real - Todd Burpo

2011-11-07T07:00:00.004-05:00

Summary from Good Reads: A young boy emerges from life-saving surgery with remarkable stories of his visit to heaven.

Heaven Is for Real is the true story of the four-year old son of a small town Nebraska pastor who during emergency surgery slips from consciousness and enters heaven. He survives and begins talking about being able to look down and see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room. The family didn't know what to believe but soon the evidence was clear.

Colton said he met his miscarried sister, whom no one had told him about, and his great grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born, then shared impossible-to-know details about each. He describes the horse that only Jesus could ride, about how "reaaally big" God and his chair are, and how the Holy Spirit "shoots down power" from heaven to help us.

Told by the father, but often in Colton's own words, the disarmingly simple message is heaven is a real place, Jesus really loves children, and be ready, there is a coming last battle.

I read this book for my neighborhood book club. It was a very easy and casual read. I loved Colton! He is a 4 year old who is wise beyond his years. After his encounter with Jesus in heaven, he shares his discoveries with his parents so a matter of factly. He shared details about heaven that he would only have known by reading the bible thoroughly. It was nice to hear about heaven through the eyes of an innocent child. I'm very glad that I read this book!

Bird Cage Blanket - Block #1

2011-11-05T07:00:00.001-04:00

I am making a blanket to go over my MIL's bird cage. Here are 4 of the blocks:

Color #1

Color #2

We are bird sitting for her for 2 weeks while she is in Aruba! I thought it would be a nice surprise!

Supplies:
Pattern: Free SmoothFox's Charity Square Nbr 1 by Donna Mason-Svara
Yarn: Wintuk Ombre #3028 - Spice & Red Heart Super Saver - Rainbow Brights
Hook: US 8/H

Crochet Hook Pocket - Rainbow Brights

2011-11-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a cool crochet hook pocket that I made this past Sunday:

I made this for a co-worker who laughs on me because I love gadgets! She keeps all her crochet hooks in a ziplock bag. When I found this pattern, I had to make it for her!

Supplies:
Pattern: Crochet Hook Pocket by Erin Doutre
Yarn: Red Heart Multi - Rainbow Brights
Hook: US 7/G
Accessories: Button

Blue Banana Dishcloths in Purple & White

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here's something new for me:

I am making my first dishcloth using two colors at the same time! Here they are separately:

#1

This pattern was easier than I thought it would be! I'll be doing more of these soon!

Supplies:
Pattern: Blue Banana Dishcloth by Chrissy Gardiner from Lion Brand Yarn: Just Gifts
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #01317 - Hot Purple & #18001 - White
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

A Simple Single Crochet Cloth - Hippi

2011-10-31T07:00:00.001-04:00

Here is another simple single crochet cloth:

As promised, I made another one using varigated yarn. I must admit, I think it looks much better than a solid one.

Supplies:
Pattern: A Simple Single Crochet Cloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Cotton #W260943 - Hippi
Hook: US 8/H

Charity Square #1 - Dusty Blue

2011-10-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is the second 12" block I made for my co-worker's baby blanket:

This was my first granny square! It was so easy and I love how there is not much counting!!! I love how quickly it worked out too! This pattern is also a freebie over on Ravelry! This designer has several differnet granny square patterns available for free. I grabbed all of them! :)

Supplies:
Pattern: Free SmoothFox's Charity Square Nbr 1 by Donna Mason-Svara
Yarn: Lion Brand Vanna's Choice #108 - Dusty Blue
Hook: US 8/H

Calla Lily Easy Griddle Stitch Dishcloths

2011-10-28T08:37:00.000-04:00

Here's another set of dishcloths:

Here is one up close:

This is another great pattern. It looks wonderful in varigated yarn too!

Supplies:
Pattern: Easy Griddle Stitch Dishcloth by Jennifer Kaye
Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Cotton #W275761 - Calla Lily
Hook: US 8/H

Hippi Crocheted Potholder

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is a crocheted potholder:

Here is a close up:

Wow, this is so thick! I love how it came out!

Supplies:
Pattern: The Best Crocheted Potholder by Heather Tucker
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton #W260943 - Hippi
Hook: US 8/H

Charcoal Ribbed Dishcloths

2011-10-24T09:41:00.000-04:00

Here is the last set of dishcloths for my co-worker:

Here is a close up of one:

This is my favorite dishcloth to use around the house. I made 8 of them for me. For these, I casted on 35 so they were not as big. Good thing because I literally had about 3 feet of yarn left on the second one! Now that's good planning! LOL!

Supplies:
Pattern: Dishcloth - Ribbed by Publications International. LTD
Yarn: Pisgah Yarn and Dyeing Co - Peaches N' Creme Solids #68 - Charcoal
Needles: US 8 on 24" Cables

Operation Bonnet: A Novel - Kimberly Stuart

2011-10-20T07:00:00.003-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: Twenty-year-old Nellie Monroe has a restless brilliance that makes her a bit of an odd duck. She wants to be a private investigator, even though her tiny hometown offers no hope of clients. Until she meets Amos Shetler, an Amish dropout carrying a torch for the girl he left behind. So Nellie straps on her bonnet and goes undercover to get the dish. But though she’s brainy, Nellie is clueless when it comes to real life and real relationships. Soon she’s alienated her best friend, angered her college professor, and botched her case. Operation Bonnet is a comedy of errors, a surprising take on love, and a story of grace.

Nellie Monroe is not your typical young adult. She never fit in at school, she was very smart even at an early age and her personality it some what peculiar. She lives with her grandmother, Nona, who I suspect is showing early signs of Alzehiemer's. Nellie takes on her first private investigator job with Amos, an Amish man who left the community. He left his true love and wanted Nellie to see if the rumors of her getting married were true. Nellie starts taking cooking lessons from Granny Mary and finds Amos' love. Will Amos get his love back? Will Nellie be able to keep her cover without causing any problems?

This book was not your typical Amish fiction book. The Amish did not get into the story until about one-third of the way through the book. Nellie was a naive girl and somewhat immature for her age. She did have a wonderful and personal relationship with her grandmother. Amos was developed as an Amish man who has learned things about the English from TV. He is protrayed as a rather dumb person since he does not understand English colloquialisms. But I must admit, the book cover is eye grabbing! I think this was a good book over all.

A Simple Single Crochet Cloth - Blueberry

2011-10-19T07:00:00.002-04:00

Here is the newest crochet pattern from Theresa L. Jones:

Here is a close up:

I know it is not my usual bright varigated yarn but I wanted to try a solid color for a change. I will definitely make this pattern again maybe I will even make some using my Mistletoe Ombre for Christmas gifts.

Supplies:

Pattern: A Simple Single Crochet Cloth by Theresa L. Jones

Yarn: Spinrite Cone - Blueberry

Hook: US 8/H

Summer Splash Houndstooth Dishcloth #1

2011-10-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another set of dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

I love how this pattern is working out! It has a nice tight weave and there are some bumps to give it some texture.

Supplies:
Pattern: Houndstooth Cloth Quartet by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Cotton #W272599 - Summer Splash
Hook: US 8/H

Hot Blue HDC Dishcloth

2011-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

Okay, I promise that I will be trying a new pattern soon! LOL! Here's another single HDC dishcloth:

I had some hot blue leftover from the last couple of projects. Plus I don't have many single crocheted dishcloths to add to my stash of completed peojects to sell soon!

Supplies:
Pattern: HDC Dishcloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #01742 - Hot Blue
Hook: US 8/H

Knit with Love: Stories to Warm a Knitter's Heart - Lisa Bogart

2011-10-16T07:00:00.007-04:00

Summary from Amazon: Knitting blesses the knitter in so many ways. It affords quiet time, the satisfaction that comes with a challenge met and a project finished, and a creative passion to share with other knitters. As knitting and the fiber arts enjoy a renaissance in popular culture, more and more women are discovering these personal benefits. But knitting also offers knitters a way to bless those around them with handmade gifts that come straight from the heart.

With inspiring stories, Knit with Love encourages and motivates knitters to see their own potential to bring joy and comfort to themselves and those around them. Whether someone has just picked up knitting needles for the first time or is a lifelong knitter, she will discover new ways to share her beautiful creations with others--and the peace that the rhythm of knitting brings to her own life.

As an intermediate knitter and new crocheter, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I began knitting back in January and I discovered a new love. I have been so inspired to create and challenge myself through new projects from scarves to hats to bags to dishcloths and finally to socks. I began crocheting last month to learn new patterns for making dishcloths. I took to that quickly as well. I love doing both since it keeps my hands and mind busy in the evenings. Although I must admit, I can complete a crocheted dishcloth quicker than a knitted one. But I can knit more detailed patterns into my dishcloths than I can to crochet them!

I love the short stories that inspired me to create and inspired me spiritually! It was a nice and easy read where you did not have to get so involved like any other fiction novel. When you had a moment to be inspired, you could read some of it quickly. I love how they discussed every step of knitting, from casting on to binding off, as it related to life and religion. It makes me think of knitting in a new light.

Available October 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Mercy (Rose Trilogy #3) - Beverly Lewis

2011-10-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: Rose Kauffman pines for prodigal Nick Franco, the Bishop's foster son who left the Amish under a cloud of suspicion after his foster brother's death. His rebellion led to the "silencing" of their beloved Bishop. But is Nick really the rebel he appears to be? Rose's lingering feelings for her wayward friend refuse to fade, but she is frustrated that Nick won't return and make things right with the People. Nick avowed his love for Rose--but will he ever be willing to sacrifice modern life for her? Meanwhile, Rose's older sister, Hen, is living in her parents' Dawdi Haus. Her estranged "English" husband, injured and helpless after a car accident, has reluctantly come to live with her and their young daughter during his recovery. Can their marriage recover, as well? Is there any possible middle ground between a woman reclaiming her old-fashioned Amish lifestyle and thoroughly modern man?

This series wrapped up beautifully! I was pleased to see that Hen and Brandon worked out a compromise in their marriage. Brandon learned that life was better with God in it! Rose was battling love again and she followed her heart and God to ensure that she had a love that was right for her. Nick returned home after finding God's love and wanted the Amish way of life. Mamma Emma is feeling better after her surgery and physical therapy.

This is only the second series of Beverly Lewis that I have read. I really enjoyed it and I am looking forward to reading more from her soon. I love the "soap opera" style of story telling she presents in her serieses. I also like how you get to know and love the characters as if they were your own family.

Special thanks to Bethany House for allowing me to review this book for them.

Hot Blue Easy Textured Washcloths

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here are some more dishcloths for my co-worker:

Here is a close up of one:

This is a fun and easy pattern. I love the texture it has too!

Supplies:
Pattern: Easy Texture Washcloth by Erin Buger
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #01742 - Hot Blue
Hook: US 8/H

Simply Stripes Dishcloths - Salt & Pepper and Hot Blue

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

I am making these for a co-worker who recently moved into a new house after her old house was destroyed by the tornado that came through my area back on June 1, 2011.

Here is a close up of one of them:

Her kitchen is pewter with blue accents. So I thought this salt and pepper yarn was as close as I could get for now. This are rather big too, 9" by 9".

Supplies:
Pattern: Simple Stripes Dishcloth by Doni Speigle
Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Cotton #W269018 - Salt & Pepper and Lily's Sugar N' Cream #01742 - Hot Blue
Hook: US 8/H

The Judgement (Rose Trilogy #2) - Beverly Lewis

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: Rose Kauffman is engaged to Silas Good, a well-liked Amish fellow, so why does she still pine for Nick Franco, the former foster son of the bishop? Especially now that Nick has left the Amish community under a cloud of suspicion after the death of the bishop's biological son? Will Rose marry Silas, even while struggling with romantic feelings for Nick? Meanwhile, Rose's older sister, Hen, has returned to live at her parents' farm with her young daughter. Hen and her modern husband, Brandon, are separated by mutual agreement, although he is threatening to sue for custody of their daughter if Hen does not return soon. Will the judge rule in Brandon's favor? Is there any way Hen can reestablish her place among the People without sacrificing her marriage?

Rose is dealing with her love of Silas and her memories of Nick. She knows that she has to move on but after seeing Nick briefly, all the feelings for him come back. Hen is dealing with the threats of divorse from Brandon. He has hired a lawyer to prove that Hen is an unfit mother to gain custody of Maddie Sue. After taking care of Beth while her neighbor was away, Rose's mom, Emnma, decides to take a different course of action for her illness as seen in Beth's dreams. Will eveything work out for everyone?

I really loved how this story continued. All members of the Kauffman family is faced with personal issues that could affect their lives forever. God's plan is eminant throught the book. I cannot wait to read the third and final book in this series, The Mercy. I started it right after finishing this one!

Yet Another DHC Dishcloth - Damask Ombre

2011-10-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a set of crocheted dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

As you can tell, I love this pattern! It works out so quickly too!

Supplies:
Pattern: DHC Cloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19535 - Damask Ombre
Hook: US 8/H

Birch Bay Dishcloths - Oriental Ombre

2011-10-09T16:51:00.000-04:00

Here another set of dishcloths from Harvest Moon Designs:

Here is a close up:

These dishcloths were easier than I thought they would be. The stitches are slipped to create the long vertical stitches. It is a very full and squishy dishcloth!

Supplies:

Pattern: Birch Bay by Sue Schaefer of Harvest Moon Upper Room (Harvest Moon Designs)

Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19009 - Oriental Ombre

Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

More HDC Dishcloths - Flower Power

2011-10-06T07:00:00.001-04:00

See I told you that I would be using this pattern again really soon. Here is another set of crocheted dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

I love this pattern! My other set is featured as a photo by the designer on the patterns link in Ravelry. That's very exciting since I am such a new crocheter! :)

Supplies:
Pattern: HDC Dishcloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream # 19310 - Flower Power
Hooks: US 8/H

Blissful Moss Rib Cloths - Chocolate Ombre

2011-10-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a set of brown knitted dishcloths:

Here is a close up:

I love how these are totally reversible! The ribbed pattern is on the front and the back!

Supplies:
Pattern: Blissful Moss Rib Dishcloth by Terri Lee Royea
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19014 - Chocolate Ombre
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

HDC Dishcloth - Pink Camouflage

2011-10-03T07:00:00.005-04:00

Here's a set of crocheted dishcloths using a half double crochet (hdc):

Here is a close up:

I love how this pattern worked out! I love how it is totally reversible and it is square without having to add a border. I also think it looks really cool with varigated yarn. I will be using this pattern again really soon!

Supplies:
Pattern: HDC Cloth by Theresa L. Jones
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19920 Pink Camouflage
Hook: US 8/H

Piper's Pebbles - Strawberry

2011-10-01T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another set of dishcloths from Harvest Moon Designs:

Here is a close up:

This is the first pattern I have knitted where there are open spaces in the dishcloth. This pattern was easy to memorize since it repeated 4 rows. I think it looks great with varigated yarn too!

Supplies:
Pattern: Piper's Pebbles by Sue Schaeffer of Harvest Moon Designs
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19144 - Strawberry
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

Plain & Simple (But Bright) Dishcloth

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is my first set of crocheted dishcloth:

Here is a close up of one of them:

I just need to block these since they did not come out as square as knitted ones do.

Supplies:
Pattern: Plain & Simple Dishcloth / Washcloth by Laurie Laliberte from Big Girl Blog
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton Peace and Love #W260961 - Orange Chill
Hook: US 8/H

Easy Does It Dishcloth

2011-09-29T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is my first "real" crocheted dishcloth using cotton yarn:

I figured I would attempt this dishcloth before moving onto learning new stitches. It went so much quicker than knitted dishcloths. Once I figured out the best way to hold my yarn and needles, it came together rather well.

Supplies:
Pattern: Easy Does It Beginner Washcloth or Dishcloth
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #00158 - Pastel Delights
Hook: US 8/H

The Thorn (Rose Trilogy #1) - Beverly Lewis

2011-09-28T08:00:00.001-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: Lancaster County, with its rolling meadows and secret byways, may seem idyllic, but it is not without its thorns. THE ROSE TRILOGY is the stirring saga of two Amish sisters on the fringes of the church, and the unforeseen discoveries that change their lives. Rose Kauffman, a spirited young woman, has a close friendship with the bishop's foster son. Nick dresses Plain and works hard but stirs up plenty of trouble too. Rose's sister cautions her against becoming too involved, but Rose is being courted by a good, Amish fellow, so dismisses the warnings. Meanwhile, Rose keeps house for an English widower but is startled when he forbids her to ever go upstairs. What is the man hiding? Rose's older sister, Hen, knows more than she should about falling for the wrong man. Unable to abandon her Amish ways, Hen is soon separated from her very modern husband. Mattie, their young daughter, must visit her father regularly, but Hen demands she wear Amish attire--and speak Pennsylvania Dutch, despite her husband's wishes. Will Hen be able to reestablish her place among the People she abandoned? And will she be able to convince Rose to steer clear of rogue neighbor Nick?

Rose Kauffman takes care of her paralyzed mother but she has not been involved in any youth activities since the accident. Rose longs to go to singings again. But she has spend time with Nick, the bishop's foster child, who is an Englisher who has not accepted the Amish ways. Rose has been the only person to connect with Nick. Nick works with Rose's father caring for their animals and working on the farm.

Rose's sister, Hen, left the church and was never baptized, married Brandon, an Englisher. After being married five years and having Mattie Sue, she decides that she missed her Amish ways and wants Mattie Sue to learn them as well. Brandon want nothing to do with the Amish, her family and any form of religion. Hen is torn between being respectful to her husband and following her heart.

I really enjoyed the first book of this series! I have not read any book from Beverly Lewis in over a year and I think I am reading another great series. I started The Judgement right away and I am loving how the stories are unfolding!

Pastel Delights Redeeming Grace Dishcloths

2011-09-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another set of redeeming grace dishcloths:

Here is a close up of one:

I really enjoyed making this pattern! It was so easy!

Supplies:
Pattern: Redeeming Grace by Harvest Moon Designs
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #00158 - Pastel Delights
Needles: US 7 on 32" Cables

The Wounded Heart: An Amish Quilt Novel - Adina Senft

2011-09-25T07:00:00.003-04:00

I am participating in an Amish blog tour for The Wounded Heart: An Amish Quilt Novel by Adena Senft .

I was approached by the publisher since I do book reviews and I quilt. I was honored to be asked.

Summary from Good Reads: When a business offer turns into something more personal, Amelia is torn between what logic tells her is right, and the desire of her heart.

A widow with two small children, Amelia Beiler is struggling to make ends meet. She is running her late husband's business, but it's not what she was raised to do, which is run a home. When she gets an offer for the business from Eli Fischer, she's only too relieved to consider it-especially when it looks like Eli's interest might include more than just the shop. But when she begins to experience strange physical symptoms and is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, it's difficult not to question God's will. If she pursues the treatment she believes in, she risks going under the bann. But how can she allow Eli to court her when she can't promise him a future?

Amelia is a widow with two young children and her husband's business to run. She starts having so medical issues and is unsure on which path to take for her treatment. There is already a member of her community with multiple sclerosis and she is strapped to a wheelchair. Amelia does not want to be like her and be on medicationn for the rest of her life. She was informed of another treatment in Mexico that could possibly cure her but her bishop would not allow it. Going to Mexico for the treatment would cause her to be banned from her Amish community. She prays to God for an answer.

Meanwhile, she meets Eli Fischer who was a relative of local family who is interested in buying her business. As she gets to know him, he tells her that he would like to court her but she can't. She does not want to be a physical burden on a new husband with her MS and pushes him away. Besides, it has almost been a year since her husband was killed in a buggy accident. Eli is widower who also lost his wife and son in a buggy accident. He is looking for love in a new place and to be able to begin a new life for himself.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! This is the first book that I have read form Adina Senft. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, The Hidden Life! I cannot wait to read more about Emma as a senior single in the community.

A special thanks to Faith Words Publishing for giving me this unique opportunity to participate in this blog tour for this amazing book!

Kitchen Bubbles - Crown Jewles Dishcloths

2011-09-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is another cool pattern from Harvest Moon Designs:

Here is a close up of it:

This was another easy to memorize pattern. I loved this color of cotton yarn too!

Supplies:
Pattern: Kitchen Bubbles by Sue Schaeffer of Harvest Moon Designs
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19313 Crown Jewles Ombre
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

Single Crochet Sample Dishcloth

2011-09-23T08:47:00.000-04:00

I could not wait for my Joanns order to come in so I starting searching on You Tube for crocheting videos. I found this one, How to Crochet Part 1 of 2 from Naztazia. Here is my sample square:

This was made using 100% acrylic yarn so it will not be an acutal dishcloth. I am going to add a border to it and use it as a block for a baby blanket that we are making at work. One of our fellow knitters is becoming a grand mother and we are all making blocks in the same size to put together as a blanket for her grand son.

It was super easy for me to pick this up after already knowing how to knit. Back in high school, over 20 years ago, my mother taught me how to crochet but she does not know how to read patterns and does double crochet rows for afghans or granny squares. It'll be nice to learn it thoroughly now!

I'm now ready to watch How to Crochet Part 2 of 2 from Naztazia!!!

Supplies:
Pattern: Single Crochet Sample
Yarn: Red Heart Super Saver Solids - Buff
Hook: US 8/H

Learning to Crochet

2011-09-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

Look what I just ordered:

And check out this cool hook holder from Katie Fleck Designs from Etsy:

I came across this book below and I needed to learn how to crochet so I could make some.

There are 99 patterns in this book. Plus I found plenty of free patterns for crocheting dishcloths over on Ravelry. I'll keep you posted of my progress in learning to crochet!!!

Orange Chill Redeeming Grace Dishcloths

2011-09-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is a new pattern I recently discovered:

Here is a close up:

I found this designer, Sue Schaefer from Harvest Moon Designs, last week. She has TONS of wonderful dishcloth patterns. I purchased 40 patterns for $20 from her and I am working on making a list for another order. She has 580 knitted dishcloth patterns available. Check her out HERE!!!

These are one of the two sets of dishcloths I made while making 4 at a time! Read about doing that on this blog post!

Supplies:
Pattern: Redeeming Grace by Harvest Moon Designs
Yarn: Bernat Handicrafter Cotton Peace and Love #W260961 - Orange Chill
Needles: US 7 on 32" Cables

The Healing by Wanda E. Brunstetter

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sumamry from Good Reads: Seek a fresh start with Amish widower Samuel Fisher as he journeys from Lancaster County to Bluegrass Country, hoping to find a balm for the grief he’s carried with him. Will this single father, burdened by yesterday’s memories, discover a new and perhaps better life in Kentucky, the land of tomorrow? Esther Beiler, who helps watch Samuel’s children, develops a crush on Samuel and a true affection for his kids. Can she win his heart, or has she already lost it to an English woman? How will God untangle star-crossed lovers when jealousies and misconceptions threaten to tear them apart?

Samuel Fisher moves to Kentucky with his four children after the death of his wife Elsie. He wants a fresh start where there are no reminders of her and he moves in with his brother Titus. Samuel is battling severe depression and needs to find a job to keep himself busy. A friend of his, Allen, finds him a job helping to bring an old house up to date to be used as a bed and breakfast by an Englisher named Bonnie. He also meets Esther who needs a job since her parents moved back to Pennsylvania to help care for her brother with MS.

Esther falls in love with all of the kids. She helps them adjust to live in Kentucky but Samuel has no time for his kinner. After spending time together, Esther and Samuel start to take a liking to each other but is Samuel ready. He is still mourning the lose of his wife and promised her that he would never love anyone else ever.

I enjoyed the second book in the Kentucky Brothers series! I am really hoping that there is a third book. There were some loose ends with Timothy and Hannah in Pennsylvania. A special thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to review this book in advance.

A Lancaster County Christmas - Suzanne Woods Fisher

2011-09-18T07:00:00.002-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: Jaime and C. J. Fitzpatrick began their married life as most couples do--in love and looking forward to a bright future together. But four years later they've drifted apart and are almost ready to call it quits.

Mattie Riehl was hoping to give her husband Sol the Christmas gift they have both longed for--news that a baby was on the way. But as usual, she is disappointed. The holidays bring an acute awareness to Mattie that her dream of a big family isn't likely to become a reality.

Then a winter storm raging outside blows the Fitzpatricks into the Riehl home--and into a much slower pace of life. Can these two couples from different worlds help each other understand the true meaning of love this Christmas?

With her trademark plot twists and attention to detail, Suzanne Woods Fisher offers readers a beautiful Christmas story of love, forgiveness, and what truly matters in life.

Mattie and Sol Riehl are a simple Amish couple. All they ever wanted was a large family but Mattie was only able to have Danny, their 6 year old son. At the doctor's office, they meet Jamie who was there to get a prescription for sleeping pills to help her sleep since her mother's tragic death. Upon leaving, Jamie is asked to bring Danny's toy to them that he left at the office. Jamie and CJ are heading to the airport to go on a cruise with her father for Christmas. When they arrived to the Amish home, her car rolls backwards into a frozen pond during a terrible snow storm and they get stranded there two days before Christmas.

Was this a Christmas miracle for everyone? During the two days, everyone became very close and they all realized things that they would not have if they weren't brought together. All things happen for a reason. Each person discovered something about themselves, their relationships, their families and God.

This was a nice short Christmas story with a lesson for all. I really enjoyed another book by Suzanne Woods Fisher and I am lookign forward to reading more in the future!

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Buried Sins - Marta Perry

2011-09-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE

Had her brand-new husband been involved in something shady? Before Caroline Hampton could confront him, he was killed in a car crash...or so it was claimed. Unsettling incidents--escalating in dange--warned her he could be very much alive. And so Caroline fled for the safety of her sisters' Amish country inn. But someone who suspected her--handsome police chief Zachary Burkhalter--was waiting for Caroline. Waiting for her to slip up. And watching her every move. Daring her to trust him with all of the truth.

Caroline decides to come back to her family in Pennsylvania after being confronted by someone of her recently deceased husband. She decides that it is best to start over and get away from it all. She learns that her late husband is not who he said he was. She meets Zach, the county sherriff, who is suspicious of her but as they get to know each other, they become friends. Will Caroline learn the truth of her husband's death?

This is the third book in the series, The Three Sister's Inn. I read the first one, Hide In Plain Sight, but I thought this one was much better. I really enjoy reading Love Inspired books! I read this one in a day. But I must admit that I listened to it on my kindle while I was knitting out on the deck on Sunday! LOL! Thanks Marta for writing another great book!

Quilt Colors DW Dishcloths

2011-09-15T07:00:00.003-04:00

Here are some more DW dishcloths using varigated yarn:

These came out great too! They are heading into my stash of completed projects for when I need a quick gift!

Supplies:
Pattern: DW Darrell Waltrip Dishcloth by Rhonda White
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19003 - Quilt Colors
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

Weathered Rose Squidge Cloths

2011-09-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here's another cool textured pattern that I recently discovered:

Here is a close up of it too:

I love that this pattern is totally reversible! Plus the cool zigzag of colors is breath taking!

Supplies:
Pattern: The Squidge Cloth by Sasha
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #19001 - Weathered Rose
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

Check This Out!

2011-09-12T09:20:00.000-04:00

Look what I started yesterday:

I figured that I knit two socks at a time, why not try it with dishcloths??!! I was going to try two of the same pattern in different yarn. Then I realized that I was going to have to do it again to make the other half of the set. So I wound some more yarn to knit four dishcloths at a time!!!

I have the four balls of yarn lined up inside the bag and I flip it when it is time to work on the other side. There are lots of strings but it is pretty easy to keep it all under control. As long as the cat does not come to sit on my lap! LOL!

This pattern, Redeeming Grace by Sue Schaefer from Harvest Moon Designs, casts on 33 stitches so I was able to use a 32" cable for it. I will have to change to a 40" one if I need to cast on more stitches next time.

The Journey (Kentucky Brothers #1) - Wanda E. Brunstetter

2011-09-11T09:54:00.000-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: Discover along with Titus Fisher how life can begin anew in Christian County, Kentucky. Moving from Pennsylvania, finding rewarding work, and leaving a broken romance behind is the best decision Titus ever made. But is he ready to consider love again when he meets two women: one who seems perfectly suited for any Amish man and one who challenges long held ideas of the woman’s role. Who will Titus chose, and will it be the right choice?

Titus lived in Pennsylvania with his family, including his twin brother Timothy. Titus was a 22 year old baptisted Amish man who is not married. He was in love with Phoebe since she was 13 but she was still unsure about becoming Amish. She leave Titus and her family to venture to California to discover the English world. A friend, Allen, comes along and is looking for some help in woodworking down in Kentucky. Since Titus was trying to deal with a broken heart, he takes off to start a new life in another state.

Titus's job brings him to meet the Yonder's who own the woodworking shop where he will be working. He meets their unmarried daughter, Suzanne, who bears a striking resemblence to Phoebe. As Titus become comfortable with his new life in Kentucky, he makes several friends and starts to like it there. But God confornts him with the biggest challenge in his life so far. How will he decide?

I really enjoyed this book! This is the continuation of the story of the twins, Timothy and Titus, who were from another series, The Daughter's of Lancaster County. I loved that series and to read about the characters all of again made reading this book feel like talking to family and close friends. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Kentucky Brothers series, The Healing. Thanks Wanda for bringing this family back!!!

Psychedelic DW Dishcloth

2011-09-10T07:00:00.001-04:00

I found this cool pattern that focuses on varigated yarn. Here is my first set of dishcloths in this pattern:

Here is a close up look at the pattern:

This pattern was so much fun to knit! It was easy to memorize and the results are amazing! I will be ordering more varigated cotton yarn just to knit this pattern!!!

Supplies:

Pattern: DW Darrell Waltrip Dishcloth by Rhonda White

Yarn: Bernat Handicraft Peace and Love #W260865 - Psychedelic

Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

Blue Yonder Maddox

2011-09-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

Here is Maddox:

He is for Gavin's first birthday! He will be the perfect size for him to carry around and love!

Supplies:
Pattern: Maddox The Mischievous Monster by Rebecca Danger
Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Tonal #25418 - Blue Yonder
Needles: US 5 on 47" Cables
Accessories: Navy Blue and White Embroidery Floss

Leftover Ribbed Dishcloth #2

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

This is the last ribbed dishcloth using the remaining yarn from the three previous solid color.

I think that I have made enough dishcloths for myself for a little while. I have added 12 new ones in the past month. I should be good for a while. Now I can start making some more, in a different pattern, as Christmas presents! My MIL requested some while we were on vacation in Maine in August so I need to get going on them! LOL!

Supplies:
Pattern: Dishcloth - Ribbed
Yarn: Lily's Sugar N' Cream #18010 - Yellow & #18712 - Hot Green & #18004 - Ecru
Needles: US 7 on 24" Cables

The Promise of An Angel - Ruth Reid

2011-09-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

Summary from Good Reads: After a barn raising accident, Judith Fischer's convinced she's met an angel. However, her attempts to convince others end up frustrating her Old-Order Amish community. Only Andrew Lapp believes her, but the rest, including Levi Plank, the man's she's waited to marry, demand she forget the nonsense. Meanwhile, her younger sister Martha has taken a fancy to Levi and sees her sister's controversy as a perfect distraction for turning Levi's head.

In a dream, the angel tells Judith she must choose her path. As her faith continues to grow, so do her feelings for Andrew. Will she continue to place her hope in the angel's message, even if it means losing all she knows and loves?

Judith is good with entertaining children with stories. When her younger brother, Samuel, has an accident at a barn raising, he becomes paralyzed and is told that he will never walk again. Judith sees an angel who tells her differently. When she starts talking about it with Levi, Andrew and her family and everyone does not believe her and is convinced that she is making up more stories again. The bishop becomes involved and it may affect her as a member of the community.

I felt that this was a heart warming story! My friends over on Good Reads have been commenting about wanting to slap Levi and I was dying to know why! I now know and I totally agree with them! With that aside, Judith discovers a friendship with Andrew that was never there as he is the only one who believes her. I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading more from Ruth Reid in the future!