Prickly Pear Jelly:
3 c. juice
2 oz. pectin powder
1/2 c. lemon juice
5 c. sugar
To prepare juice, gather 2-3 qts. of ripe dark purple fruit. Singe off stickers over open flame. Cover with water and simmer 45 minutes. Strain thru jelly bag or several layers of cheese cloth. Bring juice and pectic to boil in large kettle, stirring constantly. Add sugar and bring to full boil while stirring. Boil 2 minutes, remove from heat, skim off foam. Pour into sterilized jars and seal. Water bath.
Ok - my mom made jelly for years and sealed it with wax. That is how she did this as well. I know that is not the proper way to seal the jars. So, I would recommend wc for the same amount of time you do any other jelly. Enjoy!
Oh, and wear leather gloves while you're messing with the fruit.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Liebster Award
.jpg)
RULES
This award is given to new or up and coming bloggers who have less than 200 followers. The award is then passed along to other bloggers in the same category to help spread the word and support one another.
1. Answer the questions the tagger has set for you.
2. Then, create 11 new questions for the bloggers you pass the award to.
3. Choose 11 new bloggers (with less than 200 followers) to pass the award to and link them in your post.
4. Go back to their page and tell them about the award.
5. No tag backs.
Thank you Christine Olson http://www.christineolsonoriginals.blogspot.com
for the nomination. Now to the questions and answers:
Christine knows I knit, so most of these questions concern knitting, so let's get started.
1. Natural fibers or man-made? I love natural fibers. I never really knew anything other than acrylic (man-made) until about 7 years ago when I learned how to knit. I do like acrylic for some items, like baby hats or something that you know a child will be dragging thru the dirt and it's easy to just toss in the washing machine.
2. Cables or lace? Can I say both? Cables used to terrify me, but after I saw how they were done, I am much less intimidated by them. I still get a bit worried when I see a pattern with cables in it, but it doesn't intimidate me anymore. Lace is something I have grown to love. It amazes me how you can put stitches together and form beautiful flowing patterns to form something so beautiful that it makes you want to knit it.
3. What is your favorite color or combination of colors? Well, I used to have just two favorite colors - purple and pink (as a young girl, who didn't??). Now, well, I still like them both, but I have since added lime green, royal blue, caribbean blue, bright yellow. I guess I like them all. Right now I am infatuated with lime green - anything with lime green.
4. Top-down or bottom-up? I am assuming this is either socks or hats or even shawls. Hats I prefer bottom-up, just so much easier and I feel like I am accomplishing something when I see those decreases happening. Shawls, it can go either way, I have cast on 3 stitches and I have cast on over 800. They both have their appeal, so I can go either way. Socks - hmm, I'll let you know. I'm going to be attempting socks this year.
5. Seamless or knit in pieces then sewn up? Well, I guess seamless - I have sewn up very few items and it's not my favorite thing to do, but I do want to make a top down seamless tank for this summer, so I'm hoping that encourages me to expand my horizons.
6. Coffee or tea? I like them both - just depends on who I am with and where I am at. I used to only drink coffee if I was at church or at a coffee shop, or someplace I could buy a cup of coffee. I recently bought my first "real" coffee pot. I have also discovered peppermint tea. I really like it and have added it to my collections.
7. What is your favorite season and why? This is the easiest one to answer by far. I grew up in the northern part of the state and we hand a lot of snow and cold winters. I LOVE winter. Where I live now I crave cold. When it's 115 or more outside, I dream of living somewhere that has lots of snow where I can bundle up and just enjoy the cold. You can always add more clothing, you can only take so much off.
8. What crafts do you enjoy besides knitting? I've done so many. I've done ceramics (own molds and a kiln), rubber stamping (own thousands of stamps), scrapbooking (own thousands of stickers), cross stitch (used to own hundreds of patterns and just as much thread). But really, I've just gotten to where I focus on knitting and I guess baking. I love to bake and even though you might not consider it a craft, it can be and I love it.
9. What are you reading right now? I try and only read one book at a time. Right now I am reading The Hunger Games on my Kindle. I like my Kindle, but it doesn't make up for the smell or feel of a real book. As for a real book - I've been working on Atlas Shrugged for a while.
10. How long have you been a knitter? I became a knitter in the fall of 2007 after my mom died from a 12 year battle with multiple myeloma (a blood cancer). I learned to knit for two reasons - one was to keep my sanity during the pain and loss of someone who meant the absolute world to me and whom I missed and still miss daily and the other was because I wanted to make hats for chemo patients. I have never looked back. Knitting has kept me sane thru some really hard times.
11. If you could go anywhere right now, and money was no object, where would you go? I guess I would say Italy. Both sides of my family are from there and I would love to take my daughter to go see my family on both sides. I have never been there and it's always been a dream. I am very proud of my Italian heritage and I would like to meet my family "in the old country".
My Nominees:
My questions to all of you:
1. I know some of you knit and some write and some bake and some quilt or scrapbook. What do you like the most about your craft?
2. How do you come up with your ideas for the items you create?
3. Who taught you how to knit, crochet, bake, etc.
4. How long have you done your craft?
5. What is your favorite book?
6. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
7. Many times people talk about role models, who is your role model?
8. If you could DO anything in the world what would it be?
9. If someone walked up to you and told you that you were their role model, what would you say or do?
10. What are your favorite foods and colors?
11. If you could use your craft and develop it into a business, would you?
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Dyeing Yarn and Felting Hats
Happy Thanksgiving!
Time seems to have flown by. I can't believe I haven't been keeping my blog up lately. It seems like I have been so busy.
Since February 2012, I started a yarn dyeing business with a friend. We specialize in hand painted and hand dyed yarns. Here is a link if you're are interested. I am in the process of building our web page, so right now we are on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/BellaDulce-Yarns/112353575557405
Below are some pictures of some of our yarn:
Time seems to have flown by. I can't believe I haven't been keeping my blog up lately. It seems like I have been so busy.
Since February 2012, I started a yarn dyeing business with a friend. We specialize in hand painted and hand dyed yarns. Here is a link if you're are interested. I am in the process of building our web page, so right now we are on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/BellaDulce-Yarns/112353575557405
Below are some pictures of some of our yarn:
So, there you go - I've been playing with wool and dye!
The other thing I have been doing lately is getting ready for a craft fair. Here are a few pics of my felted hats. Can I say I think I'm addicted to felting???
And before you say anything, yes the shower curtain is upside down - that's what your father gets when he goes to a dollar store.
So there you have it. Dyeing and felting. Opening a business and trying a new knitting technique - what a way to spend a year!!
Friday, July 13, 2012
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies and Memories...
It dawned on me a few days ago that I can no longer remember my mom's voice. As I type this I am trying not to cry. I loved my mom so much and no matter what anyone says, you will always miss your mom. On August 21 of this year, she will have been gone for 5 years. It seems like only yesterday. I lay in bed at night straining to remember what her voice sounded like. I can see her in my mind, but I can't hear her anymore. I never thought that would happen.
So, I realized this when I was a thinking about her oatmeal raisin cookies. They were one of my favorite as a child and as 20something. For years I thought I had her recipe. I tried it a couple of times and it just didn't seem the same. Well, I went searching the recipe box my mom made me when I moved out of my parents home 30 years ago and low and behold the recipe I thought was my mom's was written in my handwriting. My mom hand typed all the recipes on 3x5 cards and put who she got the recipe from. (Moms - this is such an awesome gift for your kids - I love this box. It holds the history of what my family used to cook - both sides of the family, and my mom). She put all my favorite recipes in there along with family recipes and ones that she liked. I treasure this box.
Anyway, back to the cookies. So, last night as I laid in bed trying to remember her voice, I realized I did have a couple of her cookbooks. So, first thing this morning, I got up and went in search of the books. I really didn't think I'd have much luck finding the recipe. As a child, I don't remember seeing my mom use any book to make her cookies, so what are the odds??? The first book I pulled out was one I had never seen her even open. In fact, I didn't know she even had it. I didn't go thru the index, but I went to the cookie section. Going page by page, I looked at each recipe. On one page was a recipe. I stared at it and wondered. I went thru the rest of the cookie section and then went back to that one recipe. It was so simple, just a little reminder for herself. A simple "x" by the title of recipe in pencil. The recipe wasn't called Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. It was called Spiced Oat Drops. So, I have made the cookies up and can I say, the memories are wonderful!
Here's to you Mom. I love you and miss you, but you left me a surprise in a book. Thank you.
Mom's Oatmeal Raisin Cookies or Spiced Oat Drops
1 cup shortening
1 1/2 c. brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp soda***
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
2/3 c. sour milk***
1 1/2 c. rolled oats
1 c. raisins or chopped dates
1 c. chopped nuts
Cream shortening and sugar together. Add beaten eggs and mix well. Sift dry ingredients together and add alternately with milk to the creamed mixture. Add oats, frut and nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto a greased cookie sheet and bake for 15 min.
**Omit if you want to use "sweet milk" (regular milk)
So, I realized this when I was a thinking about her oatmeal raisin cookies. They were one of my favorite as a child and as 20something. For years I thought I had her recipe. I tried it a couple of times and it just didn't seem the same. Well, I went searching the recipe box my mom made me when I moved out of my parents home 30 years ago and low and behold the recipe I thought was my mom's was written in my handwriting. My mom hand typed all the recipes on 3x5 cards and put who she got the recipe from. (Moms - this is such an awesome gift for your kids - I love this box. It holds the history of what my family used to cook - both sides of the family, and my mom). She put all my favorite recipes in there along with family recipes and ones that she liked. I treasure this box.
Anyway, back to the cookies. So, last night as I laid in bed trying to remember her voice, I realized I did have a couple of her cookbooks. So, first thing this morning, I got up and went in search of the books. I really didn't think I'd have much luck finding the recipe. As a child, I don't remember seeing my mom use any book to make her cookies, so what are the odds??? The first book I pulled out was one I had never seen her even open. In fact, I didn't know she even had it. I didn't go thru the index, but I went to the cookie section. Going page by page, I looked at each recipe. On one page was a recipe. I stared at it and wondered. I went thru the rest of the cookie section and then went back to that one recipe. It was so simple, just a little reminder for herself. A simple "x" by the title of recipe in pencil. The recipe wasn't called Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. It was called Spiced Oat Drops. So, I have made the cookies up and can I say, the memories are wonderful!
Here's to you Mom. I love you and miss you, but you left me a surprise in a book. Thank you.
Mom's Oatmeal Raisin Cookies or Spiced Oat Drops
1 cup shortening
1 1/2 c. brown sugar
2 eggs, beaten
2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp soda***
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
2/3 c. sour milk***
1 1/2 c. rolled oats
1 c. raisins or chopped dates
1 c. chopped nuts
Cream shortening and sugar together. Add beaten eggs and mix well. Sift dry ingredients together and add alternately with milk to the creamed mixture. Add oats, frut and nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto a greased cookie sheet and bake for 15 min.
**Omit if you want to use "sweet milk" (regular milk)
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Peanut Butter Cookies
This is a favorite of mine. I got it from a magazine a few years ago and it is my go to recipe. I love that I can make big cookies or small. It is a soft dough, so don't panic when you scoop it out. Enjoy!
4 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 1/3 c. creamy peanut butter
2/3 c. sugar
2 1/4 c. brown sugar, packed
1/3 c. vegetable oil
3 large eggs, PLUS 2 yolks
2 T. vanilla
Preheat oven to 350 deg. Place racks in upper and lower thirds of oven.
Makes 40 +/- jumbo cookies
Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl.
Beat together buyer, peanut butter, sugars and oil with an electric mixer at high speed just until pale and creamy (about 2 minutes in a stand mixer; longer if using a hand mixer). Add whole eggs, yolks and vanilla and beat until just incorporated. Reduce speed to low, then add flour mixture slowly, mixing until well incorporated.
Using a large ice cream scoop, scoop dough and place on ungreased cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Flatten the cookies with the floured tines of a fork making a cross hatch pattern. Cookies should be about 1/2" thick. For smaller cookies use a cookie scoop that scoops 3 T.
To determine the size of your scoop, fill with water and then empty into a measuring cup to see what size you have.
Bake cookies, switching position of the sheets half way thru the baking until they are slightly puffed and golden around the edges. Transfer to racks to cool. On the next batch, transfer the racks to the middle of the oven and cook until slightly puffed and golden.
Cooking times: for jumbo cookies - 18 to 20 minutes
for smaller cookies 15-17 minutes
4 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
3 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 1/3 c. creamy peanut butter
2/3 c. sugar
2 1/4 c. brown sugar, packed
1/3 c. vegetable oil
3 large eggs, PLUS 2 yolks
2 T. vanilla
Preheat oven to 350 deg. Place racks in upper and lower thirds of oven.
Makes 40 +/- jumbo cookies
Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl.
Beat together buyer, peanut butter, sugars and oil with an electric mixer at high speed just until pale and creamy (about 2 minutes in a stand mixer; longer if using a hand mixer). Add whole eggs, yolks and vanilla and beat until just incorporated. Reduce speed to low, then add flour mixture slowly, mixing until well incorporated.
Using a large ice cream scoop, scoop dough and place on ungreased cookie sheet 2 inches apart. Flatten the cookies with the floured tines of a fork making a cross hatch pattern. Cookies should be about 1/2" thick. For smaller cookies use a cookie scoop that scoops 3 T.
To determine the size of your scoop, fill with water and then empty into a measuring cup to see what size you have.
Bake cookies, switching position of the sheets half way thru the baking until they are slightly puffed and golden around the edges. Transfer to racks to cool. On the next batch, transfer the racks to the middle of the oven and cook until slightly puffed and golden.
Cooking times: for jumbo cookies - 18 to 20 minutes
for smaller cookies 15-17 minutes
Monday, October 24, 2011
Elongated Stitch Dishcloth
My neighbor asked me to make this for her. It was a dishcloth that her great-grandmother had for her and she hasn't been able to find anyone to make them for her. I learned how to make an elongated stitch while learning this. The dishcloth looks uneven in this pic, but really isn't. I may have been trying to even it out for the pic and open up the stitches, but it really is square.
Size 7 needles
Cotton Yarn
CO 38 stitches
Knit for 8 rows (garter stitch)
Row 9: Inset needle into stitch as to knit. Wrap needle twice, then draw thru the stitch. Repeat for the entire row.
Row 10: Knit row, dropping the extra wrap as stitch is pulled off the left needle.
Knit 7 rows (for a total of 8 knit rows - Row 10-17)
Repeat rows 9-17 to size desired, ending with a garter stitch row (don't end on the wrap row, but the row before).
Bind off
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Star Coasters
By LaDonna Maxwell
Materials needed:
Left over cotton yarn (app. 100 yds)
Size 6 knitting needles
Darning needle
Cast on 21 stitches
Rows 1-3 knit
Row 4: K2, P17, K2
Row 5: K2, K17, K2
Row 6: K2, P3, K1, P9, K1, P3, K2
Row 7: K2, K3, P3, K5, P3, K3, K2
Row 8: K2, P4, K3, P3, K3, P4, K2
Row 9: K2, K4, P9, K4, K2
Row 10: K2, P4, K9, P4, K2
Row 11: K2, K5, P7, K5, K2
Row 12: K2, P5, K7, P5, K2
Row 13: K2, K4, P9, K4, K2
Row 14: K2, P3, K11, P3, K2
Row 15: K2, K2, P13, K2, K2
Row 16: K2, P1, K15, P1, K2
Row 17: K2, K6, P5, K6, K2
Row 18: K2, P7, K3, P7, K2
Row 19: K2, K7, P3, K7, K2
Row 20: K2, P8, K1, P8, K2
Row 21: K2, K8, P1, K8, K2
Row 22: K2, P17, K2
Row 23: K2, K17, K2
Row 24: K2, P17, K2
Row 25-27 - Knit
Bind off.
Hide ends with the darning needles. Block to 4.25 x 4.25
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Week 6 - Am I there yet????
No, seriously, I am not done yet. Just thought it'd be a good post title. Well, last week was has been and gone. I didn't have a bad week. It seems to be more of a routine in my life that I watch what I eat. I have "splurged" a little, but even then I was careful of how much I ate. I discovered Emerald Cocoa Roasted Almonds. They have 1 g. of sugar per serving! They are awesome and have a crunch. That is the part I miss about eating chips - the crunch.
I tried on my pair of pants again on Monday - the buttonhole is a little bit closer.....I'm getting there. Slow and steady wins the race. My birthday was on Monday. Sunday I had a piece of chocolate cake. Figured I'm not going to die by eating just one piece. One piece. Seems like such a huge step. Not that I would eat the whole cake, but that I actually quit eating. I didn't even finish the piece.
I've noticed I have a little bit more energy than I did last week. I think I'll start exercising next week. That's the plan.
I tried on my pair of pants again on Monday - the buttonhole is a little bit closer.....I'm getting there. Slow and steady wins the race. My birthday was on Monday. Sunday I had a piece of chocolate cake. Figured I'm not going to die by eating just one piece. One piece. Seems like such a huge step. Not that I would eat the whole cake, but that I actually quit eating. I didn't even finish the piece.
I've noticed I have a little bit more energy than I did last week. I think I'll start exercising next week. That's the plan.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Week 5 - Still Plugging Along......
Another week gone by and a few lessons learned.
Soooo, I had a pretty good week overall. No big pitfalls. It seems like I'm getting a handle on self-control - almost....
I think trying to find snacks in this new eating lifestyle has been the hardest. I was so excited last week to find chips made out of refried beans. I think they're called "Beanitos". They were "ok". They satisfied the crunch desire, but I'm still out on the taste. It's just not tortilla chips, no matter how hard I try. But I did get to eat some salsa and chips, so it's all good!
I've tried a variety of nuts as snacks. I really like almonds, but not all the time. So, I've ventured out to pecans, walnuts, and nut mixes. However, I found some cocoa almonds that are to die for! I think they are by Emerald Nuts and WOW! Only 1 g. of sugar per serving. I can definitely live with that.
Cheese - I love cheese, but only certain ones. I've decided I don't like the string cheese that is half cheddar and half mozarella. It just doesn't work for me. I like the pepper jack and the co-jack sticks tho so they are always in my fridge.
I broke down and bought sugar free jello to make. I love jello. BUT, and this is a big "BUT" for me. I'm allergic to aspertame. It gives me migranes like you wouldn't believe. So, diet sodas and sugar free stuff is usually out for me. What to do, what to do???.... So, I found some Excederin Migrane and took it BEFORE I ate the jello! End result, dull ache, but no full blown migraine. There is hope :-)
So, what does this all mean in relation to my weight loss so far........well, I tried on a pair of pants that I haven't worn in almost 6 years (honestly, how many of you keep pants that don't fit you anymore for THAT long??? I think I have slight hoarder tendencies.) and (drumroll here) I got them on AND wore them to church! How cool is that??!! I honestly didn't think about trying them on until Sunday morning. Never dreamed I could get them on, let alone wear them! That has given me an incentive to continue. I went and weighed on my Wii Fit on Tuesday and lost another pound. Not a huge amount, but it's a loss and I'll take it. I just wish I had started weighing myself before I started this lifestyle change.
The jeans by which I measure myself every week (on Monday), are almost wearable. I can get the buttonhole to the edge of the button and I could probably wear the pants, but I want to be able to button them up and wear them without feeling like I'm cutting myself in half. So, I'm curious to see what this Monday will bring.
Well, that's this weeks' update!
Soooo, I had a pretty good week overall. No big pitfalls. It seems like I'm getting a handle on self-control - almost....
I think trying to find snacks in this new eating lifestyle has been the hardest. I was so excited last week to find chips made out of refried beans. I think they're called "Beanitos". They were "ok". They satisfied the crunch desire, but I'm still out on the taste. It's just not tortilla chips, no matter how hard I try. But I did get to eat some salsa and chips, so it's all good!
I've tried a variety of nuts as snacks. I really like almonds, but not all the time. So, I've ventured out to pecans, walnuts, and nut mixes. However, I found some cocoa almonds that are to die for! I think they are by Emerald Nuts and WOW! Only 1 g. of sugar per serving. I can definitely live with that.
Cheese - I love cheese, but only certain ones. I've decided I don't like the string cheese that is half cheddar and half mozarella. It just doesn't work for me. I like the pepper jack and the co-jack sticks tho so they are always in my fridge.
I broke down and bought sugar free jello to make. I love jello. BUT, and this is a big "BUT" for me. I'm allergic to aspertame. It gives me migranes like you wouldn't believe. So, diet sodas and sugar free stuff is usually out for me. What to do, what to do???.... So, I found some Excederin Migrane and took it BEFORE I ate the jello! End result, dull ache, but no full blown migraine. There is hope :-)
So, what does this all mean in relation to my weight loss so far........well, I tried on a pair of pants that I haven't worn in almost 6 years (honestly, how many of you keep pants that don't fit you anymore for THAT long??? I think I have slight hoarder tendencies.) and (drumroll here) I got them on AND wore them to church! How cool is that??!! I honestly didn't think about trying them on until Sunday morning. Never dreamed I could get them on, let alone wear them! That has given me an incentive to continue. I went and weighed on my Wii Fit on Tuesday and lost another pound. Not a huge amount, but it's a loss and I'll take it. I just wish I had started weighing myself before I started this lifestyle change.
The jeans by which I measure myself every week (on Monday), are almost wearable. I can get the buttonhole to the edge of the button and I could probably wear the pants, but I want to be able to button them up and wear them without feeling like I'm cutting myself in half. So, I'm curious to see what this Monday will bring.
Well, that's this weeks' update!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Things I learned This Weekend
OK, so I learned some interesting things this weekend.
First off, I still crave sugar! Not nearly as bad as I did, but I'm kinda disappointed that I still have that craving.
Second, we went to Dion's for pizza on Friday night and we ordered a pizza and a pitcher of Dr. Pepper. We each got a small paper cup (12 oz?) and refilled as wanted. Well, I filled up my cup and I couldn't drink it! I was shocked at how sweet the soda was. I never remembered it being that sweet. I drank about 1/2 of the cup and threw the rest away. I was really pleased with myself that I didn't go hog wild over having some soda. I was also surprised that I didn't like the taste all that much anymore. I asked for a glass of water and drank that more than the soda.
Third, never buy donuts for church (especially krispy kreme). They just call out to you no matter what. I tried one of them also - way too sweet as well.
So, the lesson I'm learning this week is that yes, even tho I am craving sugar, the taste is nothing like I remember it. I'm pleased with my progress so far. I'm curious to see what this coming week will hold.
First off, I still crave sugar! Not nearly as bad as I did, but I'm kinda disappointed that I still have that craving.
Second, we went to Dion's for pizza on Friday night and we ordered a pizza and a pitcher of Dr. Pepper. We each got a small paper cup (12 oz?) and refilled as wanted. Well, I filled up my cup and I couldn't drink it! I was shocked at how sweet the soda was. I never remembered it being that sweet. I drank about 1/2 of the cup and threw the rest away. I was really pleased with myself that I didn't go hog wild over having some soda. I was also surprised that I didn't like the taste all that much anymore. I asked for a glass of water and drank that more than the soda.
Third, never buy donuts for church (especially krispy kreme). They just call out to you no matter what. I tried one of them also - way too sweet as well.
So, the lesson I'm learning this week is that yes, even tho I am craving sugar, the taste is nothing like I remember it. I'm pleased with my progress so far. I'm curious to see what this coming week will hold.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Hmmmmmm...........
Well, it's been almost 3 weeks. I haven't weighed myself and don't plan on it. Been trying to figure out some way to check my weight loss (if any). My clothes don't feel as tight and I'm sticking to the "diet" fairly close. I'm not watching my carbs, but my sugars. I try and eat only a things that have 3-4 grams of sugar per serving (or less). I have learned doing this that I need to watch how many nuts I eat because even tho they have no sugars, they are extremely high in fat. Now, it's "good" fat, not "bad fat", but it's still fat and I don't want to add anymore of that to my body. I have had no bread in three weeks, no flour tortillas, only a few chips (I'm a sucker for chips and salsa), 2 pieces of chocolate cake (my daughter's birthday - but the 2 pieces were spread days apart). Anyway, when I do eat something with lots of sugars, I'm controlling how much I eat. This has changed a lot from what I used to do before. I am become more aware of what I put in my mouth. I use Splenda for my tea (which I drink almost all the time) and I've noticed I am using less of it. I am realizing that my "sweet tooth" is shrinking. I am not craving sugar or sweets like I used to.
I have found a couple of recipes that really appeal to me. Breakfast is a really hard thing for me. I've never been a breakfast eater, but in January, I started cooking breakfast for my daughter before school. I finally found an spinach omelette recipe that I liked. Lunch is much easier as is dinner. I made red chile meat this morning. It should be really good tomrrow for breakfast.
Lunch has been chicken salad (recipe on my blog), salads, hamburger patties and beans.
Dinner has consisted of broccoli, salmon, shrimp, anything that doesn't have any flour products or sugar.
It's been an interesting journey so far. I have come to realize that I am not as tired as I was. My body feels so much better. I feel like I have a lot more energy.
So, what am I going to use as a way to judge my progress. I'm thinking I'll use my wedding band to see if I can get it to fit my figure eventually.
March on.....
I have found a couple of recipes that really appeal to me. Breakfast is a really hard thing for me. I've never been a breakfast eater, but in January, I started cooking breakfast for my daughter before school. I finally found an spinach omelette recipe that I liked. Lunch is much easier as is dinner. I made red chile meat this morning. It should be really good tomrrow for breakfast.
Lunch has been chicken salad (recipe on my blog), salads, hamburger patties and beans.
Dinner has consisted of broccoli, salmon, shrimp, anything that doesn't have any flour products or sugar.
It's been an interesting journey so far. I have come to realize that I am not as tired as I was. My body feels so much better. I feel like I have a lot more energy.
So, what am I going to use as a way to judge my progress. I'm thinking I'll use my wedding band to see if I can get it to fit my figure eventually.
March on.....
Sunday, March 27, 2011
A New Journey - losing weight one Sugar gm at a time
17 Years ago I gave birth to our daughter. Since that time, I have yet to get rid of the excess weight I gained. It's now time to try and get rid of it. My first concern is the possibility of having diabetes. No, I haven't been tested, but if you looked at my dad's side of the family, it's rampant. My Mom's side, none. I know that most things run from the Mom's side, but I just don't want to take that chance. So, I decided 2 weeks ago to try and lose some weight.
I think the biggest problem for me has been "hitting the wall". You (or at least I) have to finally reach a point where enough is enough. You are miserable in your clothes, refuse to buy a bigger size, don't want to look in the mirror and don't want anyone (especially your hubby) looking at you because you feel like you're bigger than your house. The last one I know is not true, but at a certain time of the month, it sure can feel that way :-)
I have tried diet centers, weight loss clubs, gyms, walking, the Wii, the treadmill, my exercise machine, all to no avail. I tried last October to lose weight. I actually did it. I tried eating 1500 calories a day. I counted EVERYTHING that went into my mouth. Do you know how tiring that is? How frustrating it is to keep it at 1500 and not go over? I hate living by my weight. I want to go out and buy a size 8 pair of pants again. I want to buy a Lg. shirt instead of an XL (which won't ever happen because I have really broad shoulders, but it's nice to dream). I want to be able to wear my wedding bad. I haven't worn it since I had my daughter all those years ago. It sits in my drawer, very sad.
In October I lost about 20 pounds, but then the holidays came and that counting calories went right out the window. I welcomed all those lovely carbs into my life with open arms and an open mouth.
Now, I'm not obsessed with food, but I do like it. I love to cook and bake and share my goodies with my friends and family. Thankfully, regretably, my husband only likes white cake with white icing, Snickers and peanut M&M's. Oh, and cinnamon rolls, but I don't make them too often - they're a lot of work. So, there normally isn't baked goods laying around my house. There are however, chips and salsa and candy, lots of candy.
I don't own a scale - I haven't in years. I threw the thing out because I went to a diet place that had you weigh in EVERY DAY!! Do you know how much your life ends up revovling around that darn thing? I decided enough was enough and tossed it. I now gauge by the size clothes I wear and in the scheme of things, I'm not doing bad. I still wear the same size and have for the past 17 years or so. The problem is, that is not where I want to be.
So, where to begin. Well, I have two dear friends who both have diabetes. One of them lost a lot of weight by watching her sugars (not sugar, sugars). She has been an encouragement to me and my other friend to finally jump in with both feet and get started to what I hope will be a successful endeavor. This is a record of my journey. It may be a short journey and total car wreck, but I'm going to give this my best shot and I'm bringing you along for the ride. Hold on, it'll probably get bumpy.
I think the biggest problem for me has been "hitting the wall". You (or at least I) have to finally reach a point where enough is enough. You are miserable in your clothes, refuse to buy a bigger size, don't want to look in the mirror and don't want anyone (especially your hubby) looking at you because you feel like you're bigger than your house. The last one I know is not true, but at a certain time of the month, it sure can feel that way :-)
I have tried diet centers, weight loss clubs, gyms, walking, the Wii, the treadmill, my exercise machine, all to no avail. I tried last October to lose weight. I actually did it. I tried eating 1500 calories a day. I counted EVERYTHING that went into my mouth. Do you know how tiring that is? How frustrating it is to keep it at 1500 and not go over? I hate living by my weight. I want to go out and buy a size 8 pair of pants again. I want to buy a Lg. shirt instead of an XL (which won't ever happen because I have really broad shoulders, but it's nice to dream). I want to be able to wear my wedding bad. I haven't worn it since I had my daughter all those years ago. It sits in my drawer, very sad.
In October I lost about 20 pounds, but then the holidays came and that counting calories went right out the window. I welcomed all those lovely carbs into my life with open arms and an open mouth.
Now, I'm not obsessed with food, but I do like it. I love to cook and bake and share my goodies with my friends and family. Thankfully, regretably, my husband only likes white cake with white icing, Snickers and peanut M&M's. Oh, and cinnamon rolls, but I don't make them too often - they're a lot of work. So, there normally isn't baked goods laying around my house. There are however, chips and salsa and candy, lots of candy.
I don't own a scale - I haven't in years. I threw the thing out because I went to a diet place that had you weigh in EVERY DAY!! Do you know how much your life ends up revovling around that darn thing? I decided enough was enough and tossed it. I now gauge by the size clothes I wear and in the scheme of things, I'm not doing bad. I still wear the same size and have for the past 17 years or so. The problem is, that is not where I want to be.
So, where to begin. Well, I have two dear friends who both have diabetes. One of them lost a lot of weight by watching her sugars (not sugar, sugars). She has been an encouragement to me and my other friend to finally jump in with both feet and get started to what I hope will be a successful endeavor. This is a record of my journey. It may be a short journey and total car wreck, but I'm going to give this my best shot and I'm bringing you along for the ride. Hold on, it'll probably get bumpy.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Shawl We Knit?
I am a new knitter by most standards (going on 4 years) and I'm pretty much self taught. I took a few classes at our LYS until it went out of business, so I got most of my basics, but the rest comes from trial and error, YouTube, friends, websites and magazines. I recently learned that I am a "thrower" when it comes to knitting. I never knew how I knit has a name to it. What's really funny is I learned to crochet when I was very young. My Nona taught me "by copy". She had a 2nd grade education (via Italy) and couldn't read or write. So, when she taught me, she crocheted a block and then I would tear it apart and crochet it back. I still have my many samples to refer back to. But I digress. When I crochet, I hold my yarn in my left hand and the hook in my right (not correctly either. My mom used to say you hold it like a pencil. I hold mine with almost a death grip, but not nearly as tight). When I knit, I hold my yarn in my right hand and "throw" the yarn around the needle. When I decided to take up kntting (right after my mom passed), I decided to do it right and take classes, thus the few that I took at our local store. Since then, I've ventured out and tried socks (too big but I'm not giving up - they're on my "to do" list), hats and scarves (TONS of both), shrugs, dischlothes, and now..........shawls. I am fascinated by knitted shawls. And not just any knitted shawls, but lacy ones. I'm not up to the "super fancy" shawls, but lacy ones, nonetheless.
These past few months I have paired up with a friend of mine (Hi Rachael!) to knit a couple of shawls. We are quickly realizing that there are more shawls that we want to knit than time. I guess if I had to narrow what I like down about certain shawls, it would have to be easy to follow directions, stunning yet simple designs, the size of the needles and how quickly I can accomplish or finish them. That being said, here is a list of what I am working on, have worked on and what I want to work on. Maybe you might enjoy a few of them as well. I am constantly on the lookout for patterns and I'm sure my list will continue to grow, but at least I can keep my wish list all in one spot. Now, if I could only decide on the yarn to use for each one of them.....but that's a whole 'nother post.
http://knittingasfastasican.com/forest-canopy-shoulder-shawl/ (This was my very first one and I've made it at least 3 more times)
http://www.tuecherrausch.de/download/Die-WollLust-Wabenschal.pdf (Ok, this isn't officially a shawl, but it's still lacey and I loved making it - I've made it at least two times)
http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEss10/PATTannis.php (I just got done with this one and have yet to block it - I learned a lot with this pattern - especially how to CAST ON 363, YES, 363 stitches). I plan on doing it again very soon.
http://feministy.com/saroyan/ (Love this pattern so much I've made it 4 times)
My future plans:
http://stickfrossa.blogspot.com/2008/09/sjalmnster-annas-shawl.html
http://www.loopknitlounge.com/2010/05/loving-my-old-maiden-aunt/
http://www.zenyarngarden.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=938
http://stickchicky.blogspot.com/2008/06/waltz.html
http://www.missbabs.com/store-detail.php?cat=89&ID=8
There are more, but this is a start. Maybe you'll enjoy a few of the ones I listed. Now, any yarn suggestions?
These past few months I have paired up with a friend of mine (Hi Rachael!) to knit a couple of shawls. We are quickly realizing that there are more shawls that we want to knit than time. I guess if I had to narrow what I like down about certain shawls, it would have to be easy to follow directions, stunning yet simple designs, the size of the needles and how quickly I can accomplish or finish them. That being said, here is a list of what I am working on, have worked on and what I want to work on. Maybe you might enjoy a few of them as well. I am constantly on the lookout for patterns and I'm sure my list will continue to grow, but at least I can keep my wish list all in one spot. Now, if I could only decide on the yarn to use for each one of them.....but that's a whole 'nother post.
http://knittingasfastasican.com/forest-canopy-shoulder-shawl/ (This was my very first one and I've made it at least 3 more times)
http://www.tuecherrausch.de/download/Die-WollLust-Wabenschal.pdf (Ok, this isn't officially a shawl, but it's still lacey and I loved making it - I've made it at least two times)
http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEss10/PATTannis.php (I just got done with this one and have yet to block it - I learned a lot with this pattern - especially how to CAST ON 363, YES, 363 stitches). I plan on doing it again very soon.
http://feministy.com/saroyan/ (Love this pattern so much I've made it 4 times)
My future plans:
http://stickfrossa.blogspot.com/2008/09/sjalmnster-annas-shawl.html
http://www.loopknitlounge.com/2010/05/loving-my-old-maiden-aunt/
http://www.zenyarngarden.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=938
http://stickchicky.blogspot.com/2008/06/waltz.html
http://www.missbabs.com/store-detail.php?cat=89&ID=8
There are more, but this is a start. Maybe you'll enjoy a few of the ones I listed. Now, any yarn suggestions?
Monday, January 24, 2011
So, life has been crazy at our home lately. Can't believe Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year has passed us by. Tomorrow is my mom's birthday, so I think I"ll go and celebrate it in her memory. Miss you mom!
Lately, I've been surfing the web for cowls and infinity scarves to knit. I don't know what it is about them, but there is such an appeal to them. Then I started looking for "neckwarmers" and came across scarflettes. I like them, however many of them or most of them require buttons. My problem has always been buttons on anything I make. I don't like to add buttons. If I can find a way around them, I'll do it. So, that being said, I just finished off the "Autumn Leaves" Scarflette (http://florriemarie.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/autumn-leaves.pdf) and Candy Wrapper Scarflette. Both turned out beautiful, but I wanted that something "special" to finish them off so I thought "Why not vintage??" So, what do you think?
I decided to use vintage pins! That makes the scarflettes adjustable for me or anyone I give one to. So, if you hate to make buttonholes or don't know where to sew the buttons on, consider going vintage! Vintage pins, that is! Have a blessed day.
Lately, I've been surfing the web for cowls and infinity scarves to knit. I don't know what it is about them, but there is such an appeal to them. Then I started looking for "neckwarmers" and came across scarflettes. I like them, however many of them or most of them require buttons. My problem has always been buttons on anything I make. I don't like to add buttons. If I can find a way around them, I'll do it. So, that being said, I just finished off the "Autumn Leaves" Scarflette (http://florriemarie.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/autumn-leaves.pdf) and Candy Wrapper Scarflette. Both turned out beautiful, but I wanted that something "special" to finish them off so I thought "Why not vintage??" So, what do you think?
Monday, November 22, 2010
Balancing Golf Balls
OK, so we had a Sunday School fellowship and some of our friends wanted to play minute to win it. ( I can honestly say I have no idea what this is). Anyway, they were playing on a folding table and couldn't get the golf balls to stack. So, my husband came home, rummaged thru the garage and found himself three golf balls. No, they are not glued together. He just sat at the counter and 30 seconds later.............
Oh gosh! Has it been 2 months since I last posted??? Hard to believe. Time flies. I've been busy Christmas shopping the past few weeks and I think I can honestly say that I am pretty much done. I have my husband left. My niece and nephew on my side of the family has chosen to get either gift cards or money. What's the fun in that? I remember the "good old days" when we could hardly wait to open up packages to see what we were getting. It may not have always been to our liking, but it was fun ripping open the packages. What's the fun in opening up an envelope? Where's the joy for the giver? I love to take the time and pick out what I think is the "perfect gift" for someone. Oh well, what do I know???? So, they'll get money or gift cards. Personally, I think they would have gotten more bang for the buck if they had chosen to receive gifts. Just sayin.....
So, other than voicing opposition to how I give gifts for a special season, what else can I write about??? How about a few recipes?? Sounds good. So let's begin:
Grandma's Casserole
I grew up with my grandmother making this. I don't know how old it is, but I do like it. One of those "comfort foods"
Mix well: 2 pkgs. frozen, cooked broccoli
1 pkg. frozen, cooked cauliflower
1 can Cream of mushroom soup
1 can chopped green chile
2 c. grated cheddar
1 c. sour cream
Bake in 13x9x2 pan (greased) at 350 deg. for 25 minutes
Horehound Candy
I got this recipe from a lady when I was about 12 years old. Her name was Mrs. Howard. You can probably find the horehound at natural food markets. This was my grandpa's favorite candy and I hate to admit it, but I like it too!
Make a strong tea of 1/2 c. dried horehound steeped in 2 cups boiling water in a covered pan. After 10 minutes strain into a 6 qt. saucepan. Add 3 cups sugar and 1/2 tsp. cream of tarter. Boil to hard crack stage or 300 degrees on a candy thermometer. Pour quickly into a buttered rectangular pan. Mark off in squares before the candy is entirely hard. Break into pieces as soon as it can be handled. Put about 1 Tablespoon powdered sugar in a paperbag and shake candy gently to coat. This helps prevent the pieces of candy from sticking together when stored.
Pesto Sauce
I've tried several different recipes and I like this one. I don't remember if I altered it or not, but I do like it.
1/4 c. pine nuts
3 cloves garlic
1 1/2 c. basil
1/2 c. olive oil (3/4 c. if recipe is doubled)
pinch of nutmeg
sald and pepper to taste
Mix and puree. IF, IF, you are planning on freezing this here's a trick. Leave out just a couple of tablespoons of the oil from the recipe. Pour the pesto into your container and then pour the oil on top. It will seal the top and prevent freezer burn. If you didn't save enough oil aside, go ahead and add a little bit more to cover the top. It won't hurt it. Enjoy!
So, other than voicing opposition to how I give gifts for a special season, what else can I write about??? How about a few recipes?? Sounds good. So let's begin:
Grandma's Casserole
I grew up with my grandmother making this. I don't know how old it is, but I do like it. One of those "comfort foods"
Mix well: 2 pkgs. frozen, cooked broccoli
1 pkg. frozen, cooked cauliflower
1 can Cream of mushroom soup
1 can chopped green chile
2 c. grated cheddar
1 c. sour cream
Bake in 13x9x2 pan (greased) at 350 deg. for 25 minutes
Horehound Candy
I got this recipe from a lady when I was about 12 years old. Her name was Mrs. Howard. You can probably find the horehound at natural food markets. This was my grandpa's favorite candy and I hate to admit it, but I like it too!
Make a strong tea of 1/2 c. dried horehound steeped in 2 cups boiling water in a covered pan. After 10 minutes strain into a 6 qt. saucepan. Add 3 cups sugar and 1/2 tsp. cream of tarter. Boil to hard crack stage or 300 degrees on a candy thermometer. Pour quickly into a buttered rectangular pan. Mark off in squares before the candy is entirely hard. Break into pieces as soon as it can be handled. Put about 1 Tablespoon powdered sugar in a paperbag and shake candy gently to coat. This helps prevent the pieces of candy from sticking together when stored.
Pesto Sauce
I've tried several different recipes and I like this one. I don't remember if I altered it or not, but I do like it.
1/4 c. pine nuts
3 cloves garlic
1 1/2 c. basil
1/2 c. olive oil (3/4 c. if recipe is doubled)
pinch of nutmeg
sald and pepper to taste
Mix and puree. IF, IF, you are planning on freezing this here's a trick. Leave out just a couple of tablespoons of the oil from the recipe. Pour the pesto into your container and then pour the oil on top. It will seal the top and prevent freezer burn. If you didn't save enough oil aside, go ahead and add a little bit more to cover the top. It won't hurt it. Enjoy!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
A Lesson I Learned From My Daughter
This past week has been such an eye opener for me. Not only a a mom, but as a Christian.
Conner and Tyler have been dating since May and sometime in late June, early July he and his band decided to move. Conner wasn't happy, but she kept on trucking along. Spending as much time with him as she could. Throughout their relationship they faced many obstacles, the least of which was people upset because they were dating (too old, too young, nothing in common, etc.). They fought for the chance to find out more about each other. What impressed me most was Tyler writing me asking to date my daughter. By agreeing, I lost a friend, but then again, maybe she wasn't a friend. She never took the time to find out what my rules were for dating. But that's ok, I survived.
This past weekend Conner and Tyler saw each other for the last time. I got a call late Sunday night to come pick up my very distraught daughter. I cried on the way. As a mom we never want to see our children hurt. But, as a mom we also know it's coming. How to prepare ourselves, how to find the right words, how to get them to see that their world and life is not over. It's sad and hard.
I asked for prayer for Conner. It's not easy being a teenager today and being a Christian one is even harder. So, I thought prayer was definitely in order.
Upon talking to Conner she told me that she has always encouraged Tyler to follow his dreams, even if it meant giving up her dreams.
Monday I went to knitting and was telling one of the ladies about what happened and how Tyler was leaving to start a new life, but that Conner was left behind.
Upon listening to me talk about Conner, Sharon (my knitting buddy), turned to me and said "She's the perfect example of Christian love"! I had to stop and think about that.
Upon reflection, I have to agree. It's amazing that my 16 year old can teach me such an important lesson and I can't recognize it for what it is. We have tried to instill strong Christian values in Conner, but as a parent, you never know if what you are trying to teach your kids will stick. Well, it does.
Conner has taught me that 1 Corinthians 13 is alive and well.
13:4 - 8a Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
How many of us can readily put someone else before ourselves? Encouranging them to follow their dream, even tho it is killing us inside. Honestly, how many of us?
How many of us would recognize such an unselfish act if we saw it or were recepient of it?
How many of us would praise the unselfish act for what it is? Putting into practice what Jesus taught us.
It doesn't mean that life doesn't hurt and that our hearts don't break, but it does show God and Jesus work thru us without us even knowing it.
So, thank you Conner. I know your hurting and your heart is broken, but I want to thank you for teaching your mom and for being the perfect example of Christian love.
Conner and Tyler have been dating since May and sometime in late June, early July he and his band decided to move. Conner wasn't happy, but she kept on trucking along. Spending as much time with him as she could. Throughout their relationship they faced many obstacles, the least of which was people upset because they were dating (too old, too young, nothing in common, etc.). They fought for the chance to find out more about each other. What impressed me most was Tyler writing me asking to date my daughter. By agreeing, I lost a friend, but then again, maybe she wasn't a friend. She never took the time to find out what my rules were for dating. But that's ok, I survived.
This past weekend Conner and Tyler saw each other for the last time. I got a call late Sunday night to come pick up my very distraught daughter. I cried on the way. As a mom we never want to see our children hurt. But, as a mom we also know it's coming. How to prepare ourselves, how to find the right words, how to get them to see that their world and life is not over. It's sad and hard.
I asked for prayer for Conner. It's not easy being a teenager today and being a Christian one is even harder. So, I thought prayer was definitely in order.
Upon talking to Conner she told me that she has always encouraged Tyler to follow his dreams, even if it meant giving up her dreams.
Monday I went to knitting and was telling one of the ladies about what happened and how Tyler was leaving to start a new life, but that Conner was left behind.
Upon listening to me talk about Conner, Sharon (my knitting buddy), turned to me and said "She's the perfect example of Christian love"! I had to stop and think about that.
Upon reflection, I have to agree. It's amazing that my 16 year old can teach me such an important lesson and I can't recognize it for what it is. We have tried to instill strong Christian values in Conner, but as a parent, you never know if what you are trying to teach your kids will stick. Well, it does.
Conner has taught me that 1 Corinthians 13 is alive and well.
13:4 - 8a Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
How many of us can readily put someone else before ourselves? Encouranging them to follow their dream, even tho it is killing us inside. Honestly, how many of us?
How many of us would recognize such an unselfish act if we saw it or were recepient of it?
How many of us would praise the unselfish act for what it is? Putting into practice what Jesus taught us.
It doesn't mean that life doesn't hurt and that our hearts don't break, but it does show God and Jesus work thru us without us even knowing it.
So, thank you Conner. I know your hurting and your heart is broken, but I want to thank you for teaching your mom and for being the perfect example of Christian love.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Sausage Muffins - Mini or Regular
They are very addictive, so make enough :)
The picture to the left is of the miniature muffins. I prefer them because they are just a bite or two and they are easier to handle at potlucks or for Sunday School snacks, plus, just a few are really filling.
Recipe:
3 C Pioneer Biscuit Mix (Cheri recommended this brand over any of the others because she says it bakes up lighter and fluffier - I'll taker her word for it - she loves to cook as much as I do)
3/4 c. milk
1 can Cheddar Soup
1 pound bulk sausage (I prefer hot), cooked up and crumbled
12 oz. cheese (either cheddar, co-jack or pepper jack work really well)
Mix all together and spoon into a GREASED muffin tin. Bake 25-40 minutes (depending on size of muffins) till done. Watch for the tops to turn slightly brown. Remove from oven, cool and remove from tin. Regrease before using for the 2nd batch.
A single recipe will make about 50 mini muffins and they freeze really well. To reheat them, grab a few, put them on plate and "nuke 'em" for about 35-40 seconds.
Enjoy
Friday, July 9, 2010
Star or Openweave DishCloth Pattern
Love this pattern - fast, easy for an advanced beginner and neat design!
Some people call this a star pattern and others call it an open weave pattern. Whichever it is, it's neat!
Materials:
Some people call this a star pattern and others call it an open weave pattern. Whichever it is, it's neat!
Size 8 needles
Cotton Yarn (1 ball)
Tapestry needle
Pattern is a three stitch repeat
CO 36 stitches
For the border: knit 4 rows
For the body:
Row 1: K3, K2, *yo, K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two. Repeat from * to last 4 stitches, K4
Row 2 and Row 4: K3, P30, K3
Row 3: K3, K1, *K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two, yo, repeat from * to last 5 stitches, K5
If you don't want to add the border, then remove 3 stitches from each side and CO only 30 stitches.
Then your rows would read as follows:
Row 1: K2, *yo, K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two. Repeat from * to the last stitch, K1
Row 2 and Row 4: P30
Row 3: K1, *K3, bring first of the three stitches over the other two, yo, repeat from * to the last 2 stitches, K2
Monday, June 28, 2010
Shut-In Project at my church - mission project
One of the most forgotten group of people in the church are the home bound, or shut-ins. They dedicated their lives to their church. They used to attend regularly, be involved in everything and gave freely and lovingly. Now that they are not able to attend or be involved, people forget that they are still here, just not filling up pew space. Many of these people are either in a care facility or living alone with minimal contact with people. They struggle from day to day to make ends meet or just to do something that used to come easily. The biggest thing to remember in all of this is ---- one day it will be you!
My favorite time of year is Christmas, so what better way and time to remember our shut-ins than at Christmas??!!
This is not a quick project, but rather a long drawn out one. It takes almost a year to make items and to collect items or purchase them.
Step 2: Check and verify. Call the assisted living centers and the care units. Verify the person you are looking for is at that location, definitely. Get room numbers, mailing addresses and phone numbers. Verify, verify, verify.
Step 3: Make a list. (Actually, more than one). First list: Physical limitations, requirements. This may not seem important, but if you are collecting items or making items for someone, you need to know if they are wheelchair bound, or diabetic, or have some other physical disability.
Your first list should include: Name, address, phone number, b-day (this can be used for birthday cards later in the year), male or female, where they reside (home, assisted living) and any special needs. On our list we also have "bib". This is so that we know this person needs a special bib to eat. They have a physical disability that makes it difficult to eat and they spill food a lot while eating. These bibs are nothing special, other than they are adult size and long. But, they are only for certain individuals, so we added it to our list. Also on your list make a note if this is an individual or a couple. Many times both individuals are homebound for any number of reasons. Don't overlook the spouse or caregiver!
Step 4: Make your 2nd list: Your wish list.
The past 2 years I made a list up and gave it to my church. They then printed it up in their weekly and monthly bulletin. It tells people about our project and what we are aiming to provide. It also tells people how they can help in this mission project. We usually put a number needed (ie - 60 people, so we need 60 blankets), along with a contact number and where the items can be dropped off at.
Step 5: The money does several things. It helps buy what was not fully donated by the church members and it purchases extras like ribbon (we weave it thru the baskets to make them cheery). The other thing we do is buy the shut-ins a gift card to Luby's or Furr's. Many of them cannot afford to go out and eat without relying on someone to take them. By providing them a gift card, they can buy a senior meal and buy a meal for the person who is taking them. This has been one of the most loved items. We also pick up anything else we might have missed that would go well in the baskets.
Step 7: Set up the deliveries. Have one person contact everyone on your list that you will be delivering a basket to. Some shut-ins won't open their doors to just anyone. So, let them know who you are and that you are with your church and that "so and so" will be delivering a basket to them on "this date". Make sure someone will be there for delivery. This is a good project for the youth dept. I firmly believe our youth should be in contact and get invovled with our shut-ins. It's a win-win for both of them.
Step 9: Feedback. You'll get thank you cards, you'll get suggestions on how to improve it, you'll get lots of feedback. That's a good thing. You can always improve.
I hope this gives you a few ideas on how to help your church shut-ins. I really love this mission project. I hope you do as well.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)