Nana's Clubhouse

And the knitting is still going!

2011-03-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

I will take a break from the 2011 catch up of events to show how the knitting is going these days.

Since the snood, I have been working on a Baby Hat for Bailey, Fingerless Gloves for Fiona (a co-worker of mine) and this baby sweater. It is the Rose Lichen Sweater and Hat pattern that I saw on Lion Brand's website. I am knitting it up with some Sirdar Supersoft Aran. You cast on at the end of one sleeve and work across the garment from there. The only seams will be the continuous side and sleeve seams. Everything else is on hold so I can finish this up by this weekend. This sweater is for Kristen Kucejova who lives in Slovakia. I have had the honor of being hosted by them on my last trip there. I can't make up knitted things for every little baby but this couple holds a special place in my heart so I thought I would make a gift for their new daughter. So pray I finish it up.

Happy knitting! >

March 5th Already? The Year So Far In Review.

2011-03-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

Wow, this year is flying by and not a word written to this blog. My apologies! This year has been full on and fun so far so let's do a little catching up.

Christmas/New Years holidays-Snow, walks, crafts, some take home work, decorating/un-decorating, skyping with the kids and grandkids, shopping, cooking, fun with friends were all included in that time away from the office.

4th January-back to work after the Christmas/New Years holidays.

5th January-Paul and I flew off to Budapest, Hungary to check out a hotel/conference center and the city for the ministry. Land successfully and check in! It was ridiculously cold out but we had time that day to begin exploring the city.

6th January- Paul and my 32nd wedding anniversary and we are still in Budapest. Met with the hotel staff and had a tour, a great lunch out in the castle district of the Buda side of the city, exploring the Citadel, the castle district, and making plans for the next day.

7th January-learned more about the city, took a wa

lking tour, went to the Central Market, explored some of the Pest side of the city and just relaxed as we packed up for our journey to continue.

8th January-We flew to Tirgu Mares, Romania or TGM on a lot of the websites. Met with church and business leaders while hanging out with Ian Green and the Proton team.

All was going great until the 11th when we were fogged in and our flight was cancelled. After a lot of money was exchanged and tickets purchased, the next morning we began our 9 hour train ride back to Budapest.

After much hard work with baggage and travelling, the day that began at 4.45 am and ended at 23.45 that same day we finally arrived home safely-thank you Jesus! But all along you must know I was knitting my Snood! So nice and warm so I was very happy. My first knitting project of the year!

More of the year's recap coming soon! Must go knit now!

I hope that I can give Romania another chance during a warmer time of year.

Happy New Year Everyone!

2011-01-01T06:12:00.000-08:00

2011 has already begun! 2010 went by so quickly but eventful all the way through.

In our ministry, Paul and I visited several new countries. Mine was more a pass through due to the ash cloud bus ride home from Slovakia but we traveled through Czech Republic (which I have been to twice now), Germany, Austria, France, and across the Channel by ferry. I then saw the White Cliffs of Dover. They are beautiful! Paul has been to Romania, Hungary, Moldova and Slovenia. Who would have thought even 5 years ago we would be traveling Europe like we were traveling around the States?

We hit the ground running this year with our trip to Budapest, Hungary and then to attend a conference in Tirgu Mures, Romania. I love the life God has given us to live. I am very grateful for those who help to make it possible.

May your New Year be filled with exciting possibilities, unique destinations (and that might not be travelling the world, but finding yourself volunteering in a place you never ever thought you would go!), fantastic health and prosperity in all areas of your lives. Make this a year of change-in your thoughts, in your health, in your family, in your community so that we can begin 2012 knowing we have done our all to make this earth a better place to live not just for ourselves but for our fellow man! And if you think about it on this the first day of the year, next year, drop me an email so we can share each other's accomplishments.

Love to all my family and friends all over the world!

What to do on my holidays?

2010-12-27T04:31:00.000-08:00

To start Paul and I thoroughly enjoyed Christmas with good friends and Skype/phone calls with the family over in the US. Our oldest daughter has even returned to the States for 3 weeks as they meet with people about their ministry in Nicaragua. We also shared some great videos from each of the families in our gang with more to come.

Well, as much as I love to cook, that bit is over with many delicious leftovers to savor so my attentions have moved on to my new Wii Fit Plus and exercise as there is getting to be too much Mary for my wardrobe and my own general health and well being. They have also turned to my crafts, on the 23rd, I pulled out a sewing project that has been waiting too long. I am making shopping cart seat covers-one for Daria and one for another little man. I have two friends that one has had her son just before Christmas and another in February. So I have to decide who will get the other one. So here is a picture of what is currently being worked on on the kitchen table, i.e. my craft space.

So back to the sewing machine, so I can send and give these lovelies to this little lady and man they have been made for. Happy crafting!

Merry Christmas to all!

2010-12-24T11:21:00.000-08:00

The big guy and I wanted to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas. We love to ham it up for the kids but only after we have shared with them the real meaning of Christmas.

It is after all Christ's birthday! God so loved the world, that He gave His Only Begotten Son so that we might have everlasting life!

Want to know more? Emailing me. You will be glad you did!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

The Baby Knitting Continues

2010-12-21T11:45:00.001-08:00

If anyone ever told me that Caron's Simply Soft doesn't have enough yardage, I would have to beg to differ with them. Why you ask? I have made waistcoasts for both Alison and Emily out of two skeins in Off White and Pink respectively and still have more. So much more I was able to almost complete a hat for Daria out of the Off White but as I was running low chose to finish off the cap with pink and then embroider the flowers in the pink as well. See how it turned out-

And now I am off to work on the Sweet Baby Cap for Bailey that matches her leaf square blanket. Then I can finally count that Kisses yarn as used up as well. Four more days to Christmas!!!

Friday, 17th December 2010-Wow!

2010-12-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

All my life I have lived in the country of my birth, a free country. We can travel from place to place with out question. A United States passport can get you literally anywhere in the world. As you know Paul and I have been living in the UK for the last 18 months serving as missionaries with NLI. This is only made possible by the support of our team, NLI and our sending church, Next Level Church, Fort Myers.

To stay in a country for more than a visit, visas are needed. All well and good, we applied for them months before we came over. January 6, 2011 is the expiration date on our current visas. But first we had a date problem, was it January 6th or June 1st? We determined that as the British consulate issued them it was 6-1-2011 which is January 6th, 2011. We are so glad we realized it soon enough. Well after filling out a 65 page application for Paul's missionary visa and my 56 page dependent application, our presentation of all the necessary supporting documents, photos and fingerprints, we have been granted permission or a "Leave to Remain" extension of our visas until 31-12-2013!!!!!

I am excited but also have a new appreciation for all those who diligently go through the process correctly and don't wonder why others try to get in illegally. We are here by choice to serve at the ministry. Others are trying to get some place safe to live due to poverty, war and exile. My prayers are for them but also praying they use wisdom in their decisions. The procedures are what they are, so please follow them so the procedures are not made more difficult for everyone else! I know of a couple that she is from the UK and he is from the USA. They dated for a long time, have a proper relationship, married back in July and she is still living here because her visa to live in the US has not come through yet due to the lengthy procedures and delays. My prayer is that this lovely couple can finally live together as man and wife in the US!

Well, I will get off my political soap box now and I think I will go knit something! But I am doing so knowing I have the right to stay here where we have made our home and for that I am relieved and thank God for blessing us so much. This year, that is Christmas, I don't need anything more.

Count your blessings and give to others this holiday season!!! Love you all, Merry Christmas!

A Vendor you might be interested in!

2010-12-14T04:02:00.000-08:00

I have been following a number of stampers blogs in these recent days. One of them mentioned a competition in celebration of their new website, www.letrasetuk.com. The competition closes at midday (12 noon) UK time, 6th January, 2011.

The prize is http://www.letraset.com/products/2063-Seasons-5-Packs.

I am going to pick some up from the store and give them a go! Well, have fun stamping!

All you have to do is spread the word of the new site on your blog and leave a comment on the blog. The blog address is (http://www.letrasetuk.blogspot.com/) .

Christmas Knitting on the Move

2010-12-12T11:57:00.000-08:00

I just finished Alison's waistcoat for her Christmas present. Now if I can ship them off this week, I will be ahead of the game!!!

And now on to using up the rest of the baby yarn so I am making some baby hats. I found this wonderful book at the library called, A Kiss in Every Stitch, by Nicky Epstein. And I am going to knit up the 4 Baby's First Hats. Each has a different rim to it. So here I go, our babies are going to be warm!!!

A Penny Story to share!

2010-12-10T01:30:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you will definitely know that I love and am proud of my family. Each of our daughters, son-in-laws and granddaughters are unique and that uniqueness keeps me smiling. The story you are about to read came in by email. It made me smile that our 3 year old granddaughter remembered a gift Paul and I sent her last year and found it to be very versatile!

9-12-2010: Today is share day at school (show n' tell). This weeks topic has been cooking, so Penny dug out the apron you made for her and said she wanted to take that for share. She put it over her head, checked herself out in the mirror and said "I'm a cooker!". A moment later, she turned the apron around to lay on her back and said "I'm a magician-er!". Seconds later, she was running through the house saying "This is my cape. I'm Spiderman the Explorer (Dora), to infinity and beyond (Buzz Lightyear)!" :)

So, thank you for the apron, even though it's not an apron any more. :) Maybe it'll get another chance later today. :)

Love you!

Oh my, what a wonderful family we are blessed with!

Another way to look at Christmas!

2010-12-01T03:55:00.000-08:00

While I was driving to a meeting this morning, I was listening to an radio interview on BBC2. The newscaster was interviewing the Archbishop of Canterbury. He was asked to speak on the topic of Advent. As many of you know or may not know, I was raised Catholic so I am very familiar with the ceremony of Advent, the prayers and preparation in the church for Christmas. But the Archbishop delivered a short but fuller message this morning.

The Archbishop shared that the days leading up to Christmas are to be days of preparation for our coming King. But even more so, in simplicity, it is a time of discovery and surprise. Let us think of it day by day with the Advent Calendar. Each morning opening another window to review a treasure, a new surprise. As adults, Christmas may have become a chore-the decorating, the entertaining, the shopping, the cards, the pressure of it all. As the Archbishop spoke, I again was reminded to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of the season here in the days of 2010 and step back to the time the Bible presents. Mary, Jesus' mother, was preparing for the birth of her son for the 9 months. God himself was weaving that child in her womb as an earthly sign of His love for us. Isaiah tells of the coming of the Saviour child. So much is written about this time in history in the bible and prophesy fulfilled at the time of Jesus' birth. My heart is for it not to get lost in the comings and goings of 2010's happenings.

Let us all be the children opening the doors like on the Advent calendar to the surprises to us but not to God of what He wants to say to us individually, corporately as a family, as a couple and rediscover the splendor and majesty of God's gift to us. A gift, if He is received as our Lord and Saviour, keeps giving to us for all of Eternity. I am in to see what God wants to say to me this year, I hope and pray you are with me on this so we can spend eternity together in His loving arms.

It all began with a child...where will knowing this child take you? As Linus says in It's Christmas Charlie Brown, "And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." That's what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown!"

Love to you all! Merry Christmas!

Mary

Another FO but of the Counted Cross Stitch kind

2010-11-30T11:34:00.001-08:00

Our youngest daughter is the mom of our youngest granddaughter, Daria. Months ago she asked if I would make the baby or maybe it was I volunteered to make the baby a "First Christmas" ornament. Last night, November 29th, 2010, I finally finished it and today I mailed it to them. First I hope it makes it in one piece and secondly, by Christmas. I emailed a photo of it to her last night but haven't heard back from her so I don't dare post it on Facebook. But as this is my blog and at this point don't have too many followers, well I think I am safe. So here it is...

So there is the last of the crafts that I participate in-

Some of my friends' blogs are about their knitting, their stamping, or whatever their special talent is, but I have many and have no problem moving from one to the other so I hope I haven't offended any visitors. I just love to craft!!! Have fun, I am!

Oh Baby It's Cold Outside!

2010-11-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

Not complaining, just realizing I need to knit a few things for myself. I just queued a Snood and that should help to keep me warm but not squash the hair too much. If you are on Ravelry, you will see it isn't even on the project list yet but I think I might have to bump a few things off to make room for this much needed accessory! Photo to follow tomorrow.

Well, I have finished a number of cards which unfortunately I didn't sell at our church sale but fortunately I have a card stash finally. So I am happy. In the knitting department, one of my many Christmas presents is finished. Emily's Waistcoat in Pink of course. I hope she likes it and it isn't too warm for "winter" in Nicaragua. Next on the needles is the twin for Alison! Stay warm!

Bedworth-Saturday, 27th November report!

2010-11-27T03:40:00.000-08:00

Oh my! Happy Thanksgiving oh so late to my American friends. We had a great time with our neighbors and a couple of friends from NLI over for dinner. And leftovers, of course, we have leftovers so they will be shared tomorrow night with some new friends from Brisbane, Australia tomorrow evening with all the trimmings. We skyped with all of our girls' families, Paul's mom and my Dad and stepmom.

It has been a long while since I blogged but "Craftiness With Love" has been amassing an inventory of cards, counted cross stitch items, and much much more for our Ladies Pamper and Shopping Night at our church, Lifechurch Bedworth. If you are reading this in time and are local, join us at 7 pm tonight.

Look what we woke up to today...

It is a winter wonderland! Christmas decorations will be coming out in the next few days. I have been so busy I didn't realize that there is only 27 days until Christmas.

After the show tonight, it is back to Christmas knitting and counted cross stitch! I love this time of year!!!!

The Wait is Over!

2010-11-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

Well, again we have a new addition to our family.

Without much more delay, let me introduce you to the newest member of the Triller clan....

Miss Daria Lynn Stanley

Born November 16th, 2010 at 6:25 pm

weighing 9 lbs. 13 oz.

and 22 inches tall.

Here she is snuggling with Mommy!

Welcome to the family little one!!!

Today is a waiting game!

2010-11-16T14:48:00.001-08:00

This has been a busy month for our family. Our 4th granddaughter, Bailey, was born on November 2nd. Here is with her daddy and big sister, Penny.

So back to today-our youngest daughter and her husband are in a hospital in Pensacola, FL awaiting the birth of our 5th granddaughter. I am here in the UK and it is 10:53 pm but with the time difference, she still could make it into this new world today. We will wait and see!

Come on Daria Lynn Stanley, your family is waiting for you.

Oops-it isn't a FO yet!

2010-11-15T12:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's posting of the waistcoat was done in haste. While posting the pattern pamphlet photo to Rav to announce the other waistcoat I am making for Big Sis, I realized my error! Much to my surprise and further reading, I have failed to pick up the stitches along the two sides and collar for a properly finished edge which includes the buttonband!

Back to it tomorrow, right now I am working on some counted cross stitch for a granddaughter who is just about to be born. The project, an ornament commemorating her 1st Christmas! I will post pictures when it has been completed.

Happy Stitching!

Another FO for November!

2010-11-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

Using up the stash yarn is style is my game at the minute! I have a massive amount of baby yarn in odd ball amounts so I have been trying to find projects to do with it.

Pretty in Pink is always Emily's first fashion move so for Christmas she will be getting this wonderful little number from Nana and PopPop! The design came from Sirdar. This waistcoat uses less than 1/2 skein of yarn and works up very easily. It must as it took me 6 days to make.

Next post I will show you another stash buster project I have finished this week and the pattern came from LionBrand! Happy Crafting!

Another FO for me!

2010-11-08T11:39:00.000-08:00

Well today was a day of rest for me as I am home with a cold and a sore throat but I rested while knitting. Today I finished putting together my Balloon Animal Giraffe. A Lion Brand pattern I found in one of the many emails I receive from them. I am going to use it first as the centerpiece for a baby shower I am co hosting for a lovely lady here in Bedworth. Then along with the green kimono jacket I made a while back will be part of my gift.

I have decided though that this is a great pattern to make with any soft baby yarn I have in my stash. It was a fun pattern to make and very easy as the spots are put on after the knitting has been completed with a duplicate stitch.

The Kisses Blanket has been completed!

2010-11-07T06:04:00.000-08:00

Granddaughter Bailey June arrived on Tuesday, 2nd of November and her blanket was completed today! She is a beauty and will be wrapped in the blanket as soon as possible. I am so excited.

Next on the needles are the waistcoats for the Tingle ladies. Christmas knitting at its quickest. Also with the help of Anna Karin, I am hosting a baby shower for a volunteer in our offices on November 20th so I also need to complete the Balloon Animal Giraffe. This knitted toy will be our centerpiece/gift for the festivities. Can't wait to see how that turns out.

Have fun with your holiday knitting!

Today's grocery shop was brought to me by the EU and knitted food too?!

2010-10-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

I learned early on that the British believe in purchasing products from their own people and then and only then if they can't find it or it isn't made here, buy from another country's product. And rightly so! So I go to the grocery store to pick up a few things and find some terrific sales. I only buy chicken when it is on sale as it is the most expensive meat here believe it or not.

So I am pattying my minced beef and read it is Irish Beef. I am wrapping my chicken fillets for the freezer and find out it is from Germany. My orange juice is from Valencia Spain. I am so grateful to have these common items but never realized how everyone works together to supply our needs.

And on a knitting note, while having coffee with my friend, Alli, we discussed our children's church program. Our 2-4 year old group is called Rising Stars. Well, Miss Alli has discovered the cutest patterns for knitted food and she has asked me to knit some up. Scones, items for a complete English breakfast, all sorts of things. I will be using up alot of my ends and leftovers for this so this is going to be great for a clear out and I will be using some of Alli's grandmother's yarn. Can't wait to dig into that chest and see what treasures I find!

As promised!

2010-10-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

Here is the photo of the squares in their proper placement. I am going to turn my attention to another craft for a few nights. But in the meantime, I will keep eying the squares to make sure I like them all this way before assembling the blanket. I do have to say this is one of the most beautiful things I have created in a long time!

What do you think?

Leaf Blanket Update

2010-10-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I just finished block #24. Photos will be posted tomorrow night. Oh my this took so much longer than I thought. But it is beautiful.

And it keeps getting better

2010-10-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Shake and it was brilliant as the kids are having fun and learning truths along the way. One example was we had more first time kids which means the kids are sharing the news that Shake is cool with their friends. Tonight's story of the Good Samaritan taught how to be a friend to someone you don't know with all their eyes on Davina as she brought the bible story to life. There might have been a conference going on all day at NLI and I was tired, but I wouldn't have missed tonight for all the world.

Off to bed, next adventure begins at 4:15 am when I drop Paul off at the Coventry bus station. Kev is very ill so Paul is standing in for the team at the Organix conference in Oradea, Romania. It begins tomorrow night so Paul needs to get there! Whoa, here we go! What a life and I wouldn't change a thing about it!

Busy but a great week so far...

2010-10-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

and it is only Tuesday. Sunday was chuckful of fun as I was Granny Good Cook, as my husband likes to call me. I was cooking for our visiting ministry friends-3 pans of lasagna, one vegetable platter and garlic bread all for last night's Social; 4 dozen cookies, 3 batches of muffins for each day's morning teas and lunch time desserts.

Last night was fantastic. Meeting like minded people is such a blast. People willing to follow the call of God for their lives which doesn't mean that they will all come to NLI to carry it out but will do something in the near future.

So now that I am too relaxed to make cards as I have ten more of those baby invitations to make, I think I will turn my attentions to block #23 so I can finally stop counting blocks!!! Then it is the border but that is okay.

Babies are everywhere!

2010-10-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Just found out about 3 more babies on the way! This Nana is knitting, sewing and now is stamping for babies. A dear lady that helps out at church and at NLI is expecting soon and we realized that a shower is needed. This is their third child but many years have passed since the last so a shower there will be. So the invitations are on the project board and should be finished by tomorrow but here's a sneak peek. Stampin Up Little Layers Plus with Tempting Turquoise and Black paper and inks were used. Sorry to say this isn't an original design. Thanks to www.splitcoaststampers.com SU Gallery, this design is coming together.

On the cutting table and the needles!

2010-10-15T14:45:00.001-07:00

So here's the card of the day "Be Merry". I am loving getting ready for the show/sale. And I am knitting block# 22 and almost half way finished with it. Then there is only two more to go!

This blanket will be finished before the baby who will snuggle in it will be born. Hurray!

Have you heard of...100 Days of Holidays - BHG?

2010-10-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

I have been receiving this great email for the second year and thought that I would share it with you all.. 100 Days of Holidays - BHG.com www.bhgholidays@email.bhg.com It is wonderfully filled with crafting ideas from cards, home decorating, sewing, recipes for the holidays as well as the everyday meals, knitting & crocheting.

One of today's links was for Quick and Easy Dinners-my photo from today is Chili Beef Pie with Biscuit Crust. I think I might have to try this some day.

So take a look at the site and email me at mary@going4the1.com and let me know what you think!

100+ posts & a creation from a Knitting Buddy

2010-10-13T13:54:00.000-07:00

This is my 101st post to the blog! Some who have known of my blog knew it was a very lonely place but no more. WooHoo! Blogging is actually very nice so I will keep it up.

I have just returned from knitting and had to share a beautiful work of toy art that one of the ladies just finished. Audrey is the knitter and her prize is Peter Rabbit! Brilliant job Audrey!

Blanket update: Square#21 of 24 is on the needles! Perhaps I could start working out the layout-photos to follow! Happy Crafting!

Stamping fun day

2010-10-11T14:21:00.000-07:00

Hey! Working on my card creations for our Ladies Shopping and Pampering Night at the end of November and came up with this idea with a few suggestions from my friend Janelle. There are more on the drawing board!

My weekend here in England!

2010-10-10T11:52:00.000-07:00

Oh my, what a wonderful time I have had this weekend! Yesterday, Saturday, at 5 :15 am Paul and I boarded the Megabus to travel to London. It was our first time in the city so we were super excited despite the hour.

Our first stop was Victoria Station and then to the train to Alexandra Palace station, a shuttle bus and I was entering a knitter's/stitcher's/quilters paradise.

I taught a few people to knit while serving in the UK Handknitters Association's Knit One, Pass It On and met some lovely fellow knitters. I will be hooking up with a few later on Ravelry, Sylvie Sturrock and sazzle-j. It is a pleasure to know a few more knitters. These two ladies along with many other volunteers to the booth are charity knitters. Sylvie was working on one of her contributions to the Big Knit, hats for Innocent brand Smoothie bottles to help the elderly here in the UK stay warm this winter by supplementing their funds for heating their homes.

I also had a chance to go around the booths at the show. So many creative fibers, patterns, techniques. I have to admit I was a bit overwhelmed but definitely excited to knit through my stash so I can make some purchases next year.

So if my American knitting friends feel like I may be missing out, don't worry that we don't do a Stitches UK and this show definitely qualifies with hundreds of exhibitors. Can't wait until next year as my plan is to go to the show for a day and volunteer for a day as well. Knitting heaven!

Tomorrow-the rest of our visit to London!

Today was a bittersweet day!

2010-10-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

This lovely lady was with us as we said good bye to the love of her life, our pastor, Glenn Barker. Shereen, my heart goes out to you and the children as you re plan your lives, decide what the "ordered steps" are for the future. I am praying for you all but want to say thank you for sharing Glenn with us. Paul and I are fairly new to Lifechurch Bedworth but love how the church is growing, to know you both were walking in the plan God had for your lives as you share the love of Christ with others.

Glenn, you will be sorely missed but wow, you are in heaven with our Lord whom we all want to be with some day! We heard great stories from your mates, your beautiful children, your own mom, sister in law and then finally your soulmate, Shereen. The stories brought tears, laughter and applause. Brother, we will work to keep your legacy going-thanks for setting the pace as a leader in your home, your church, your community and in missions to other nations. See you in heaven!

Do you love what you do?

2010-10-07T14:36:00.000-07:00

I do. I am a missionary filling the role of Human Resources Manager for Next Level International. I have the opportunity to work with people all over the world. Right now I am trying to connect with a young lady from Melbourne, Australia. She is looking at NLI as a possibility for her future. Who would have ever thought I would be even speaking to someone from Australia if it wasn't for this opportunity! Thank you God!

And I knit while I wait and see if she can chat tonight! Have a great evening!

Shake!!

2010-10-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

Tonight I hung out with the coolest bunch of kids at my church and just had a "smashing" good time. Shake is the name of our community outreach kids club at our church Lifechurch Bedworth. Our theme this year is a mixture of deserted island/explorer as I have found myself shipwrecked on a deserted island and have to keep myself going. I have yet to get a picture of myself as "Mary the Explorer" but I will try again in two weeks when we next meet.

I did have an interesting time of it though as one of the boys is in the range of autism. I apologize if I didn't say that correctly but that is what I heard someone say tonight is a teacher. I am going to study to learn more so I can help him to have some fun and get something out of the group as well. Pray for me as I want to do the right thing to love on this boy and in turn his mom as well.

Well off to knit! Block #19 of 24-I see the end coming so it will be seaming it together to create the leaf pattern and then the edging. If you can't tell, I am quite proud of this accomplishment. More photos soon, I promise!

Day 5 and I am thinking this is an opposite sketch!

2010-10-05T12:52:00.000-07:00

I have been posting strong for 5 days now which is nothing to boast about in the world of blogging but something strange is happening. As I came in to my blog, I looked down to see who else has posted recently. And the strangest thing has happened, no one else is posting. Has the world ended and I just don't know? I really don't think so but I am praying everyone is all right out there.

So, Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow? To your left is a picture of our ripened tomatoes! We had so many tomatoes but for the longest time they were all green. After jars of Green Tomato Chutney were made, we still had alot of tomatoes, so we put them on the windowsill and watched & waited. We are eating them now and enjoying every bite. I sliced this one up the other day for some BLTs. They were delicious. And now, that makes me think we will have a bigger garden next year. Hurray!

Tomorrow is Shake and Converse night for our community children. So there will be funny stories from that for sure. So till tomorrow!

Living the Seasons 52 Life!

2010-10-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hey that's what it feels like here with all the beautiful fruit and veg, as they say here, coming out in abundance. Tonight our neighbor, Ted Hammond, gave us our third large bag of pears. I know Paul loves pears but at one a day they might spoil before he has a chance to eat them all, so I baked some. I made a great Upside Down Pear Cake for dessert to follow our Chicken Fajitas with our very own tomatoes to dress them. Now you might see that it won't win any presentation awards but it was yummy! I can't wait to see what else we can plant successfully next year.

Kisses Blanket Progress

2010-10-03T13:23:00.001-07:00

As you can see the blanket is coming along very well, 17 of the 24 blocks are completed and #18 is at 3/4s completed. The yarn is so soft it is perfect for the little ones to cuddle with. So if you have a chance to knit something up with it, go for it! You will not be disappointed. See my Ravelry project, Kisses Blanket for all the yarn details.

Birthdays and Stampin Fun

2010-10-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

Today is my Dad's 77th birthday!! He and my step-mom have just returned from a fantastic cruise vacation. This trip began in Vancouver and concluded in San Diego. It was a wine cruise as well so there was much to learn about as well as enjoy. I am thinking that is a great way to celebrate a birthday. May you have many, many more Dad.

Here in England, it was a great day for stamping fun. My knitting buddy, Linda, and I took in the Artisan-Ultimate Bead and Stamp Exhibition. It was fantastic and really got my creative juices going. I have been invited to participate in a Shopping & Pampering Night at our church at the end of November so I will be making cards to sell. I have learned some new techniques and am eager to see what I can create using them on each of the cards. I will post my creations as they materialize, but in the meantime, enjoy some of the creations I saw at the show.

This blog is alive!

2010-10-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

Shame on me I haven't posted since August 8th but I am on a challenge to post something on here every day for the whole quarter.

It is also October and my daughter Megan has invited me to participate in Socktoberfest. So while I will be recanting some stories from what has happened since August 8th, there will be updates on the socks I am going to do. This is big as after close to 30 years of knitting on and off-I am casting on my first pair of socks. Hurray! Not sure if they will be completed in October but I am going to try. I am going knit, On Your Toes Socks by Ann Budd.

Photos to follow-happy knitting!

A great day and more!

2010-08-08T02:49:00.000-07:00

It is beautiful outside today in Bedworth! The temps are cooler than it looks but the sun is shining so brightly, it is blinding me through my kitchen window as I clean up from breakfast. It almost feels like summer.

Well, the Trillers are moving on in acclimating to England. Shot another wedding yesterday which is a miracle as again there has been no advertising done but the dear Lord gets the word out anyway. Great couple, great family so of course it was our pleasure to be there. I love an activity that makes you feel all warm inside and makes people happy as well. Everyone should have a business, a side business or a hobby or volunteer opportunity that helps them feel like that! Now I can't wait to see how the pictures turn out.

As it is 2 1/2 months from the delivery of two little ladies, the knitting needles are going along quickly. I want to post pictures but also want to keep some things a surprise all at the same time so suffice it to say I have completed one kimono jacket, one baby pullover and now beginning the 3rd square of a 24 square blanket. I have been trying to focus on one project at a time but if the blanket progress is too slow, it might be worked on in between others. And to add to the mix, I have some counted cross stitch and sewing projects for the little ones as well as Christmas presents for all. Busy time now!

Over a late breakfast I read the article about knitting and visiting guests on this week's offering of Ravelry. I don't often read the articles there but this one caught my eye and so much I replied. But now also want to share my response with you as well:

"Thanks for sharing what many of us have thought for years-can I just pick up the needles and be comfortable? I have moved from the States to England. This has been a smooth transition made even smoother with the help of Ravelry and one very attentive moderator, Jane, that I have found a great knitting group. They meet weekly and that helps with some of the homesickness. But recently, while over dinner I found out that a second of my co-workers' wives are knitters. One of the couples came over this past Saturday for dinner and a game of Rummicube, but then the evening was winding down and the guys wanted to go to the back garden for a cigar.

Linda and I have been left to sit and chat. Comfortable but this time more so as she felt comfortable enough to bring her knitting along with her. First for a show n tell as we are both knitting for future grandchildren due in November and December. Well of course we chatted while knitting and the guys thought they were interrupting us when the cigars were over. Instead of thinking we were just waiting on them, the tables were turned and we were the winners as we had forged a new level of our relationship as they now have a new sense of freedom to hang out without us.

The world would be a different place if we were all issued some yarn, knitting or crochet needle(s), some basic instructions and a friend! Perhaps that should be our governments' new initiative. Just a thought!"

I think this recollection was given to me today as I am very "daughter and granddaughter sick" this morning. I have been provided comfort from homesickness if I just realize it. It doesn't replace missing Erin's baby shower yesterday (Thank you Linda for giving it to her in my absence!), Penny's 3rd birthday today and just missing the Tingles as they have been busy with back to back teams serving in Nicaragua. I am remembering we are all where we are by choice and by the Lord's will right now and so visits with friends help me along the way. And I am looking forward to the Skype calls in the future and our Nana/PopPop visits to come.

Talk to you all soon!

Innocent Smoothies Big Hat Drive

2010-07-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

I was looking for some charity knitting project to participate in and found the Innocent Smoothie Big Knit to raise money for Age UK. This organization is decorating their bottles with these hats this Autumn to help the elderly pay for their heating bills this winter. So I gathered my scrap yarn, pompom maker and began my knitting. Check out the group, the patterns and the deadline to participate. The more the merrier as it will take a lot of donations to help out this winter season.

An installment of "June/July Catch up"

2010-07-18T02:51:00.000-07:00

So on June 25th, Paul and I took off for the states to return on July 12th. This was a trip with many different purposes-NLI specific ministry, Going4the1 personal ministry, hugs and catch up conversations with dear friends, meeting Elias our new little Hoag buddy and ended with some great time with family. So as it has been so long since I have really posted, I will begin at the end and for the next few days post some pictures from Gertstock, my MIL's birthday party. 2010 marks her 85th birthday, actual birthday is September 13th but in an attempt to get all the grandchildren together we have decided to hold in it mid summer! Here is the lady we were all there to celebrate! Happy Birthday Mom-you are a great lady and loved by your whole family!

Have you ever wondered if you have learned anything?

2010-07-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

While in the states, Megan sent out to our knitting group a Knitting Master Skillz List. And the discussion has been on as to what we have all learned and accomplished through our love for knitting. Here is what I have accomplished so far. Wow, I have so much more to try!

Knitting Skillz Master List

X Afghan/BlanketAfghan X I-cord 

X Garter stitch Knitting with metal wire 

X Shawl  X Stockinette stitch 

Socks: top-down  Socks: toe-up

Knitting with camel yarn  X Mittens: Cuff-up

Mittens: Tip-down  X Hat

X Knitting with silk Moebius band knitting

Participating in a KAL X Sweater 

X Drop stitch patterns  X Knitting with recycled/ secondhand yarn 

X Slip stitch patterns  Knitting with banana fiber yarn

Domino knitting (modular knitting)  X Twisted stitch patterns

Knitting with bamboo yarn  X Two end knitting 

X Charity knitting  Knitting with soy yarn 

X Cardigan  X Toy/doll clothing

X Knitting with circular needles  Knitting with your own handspun yarn 

Slippers  Graffiti knitting (knitting items on, or to be left on the street) 

Continental Knitting  Designing knitted garments 

X Cable stitch patterns X Lace patterns

 Publishing a knitting book  X Scarf 

American/English knitting  Knitting to make money

X Button holes  Knitting with alpaca

X Fair Isle knitting Norwegian knitting 

Dying with plant colors  Knitting items for a wedding

X Household items (dishcloths, washcloths, tea cozies) Knitting socks (or other small tubular items) on two circulars

Olympic knitting (albeit unsuccessful)  Knitting with someone else's handspun yarn

X Knitting with DPNs X Holiday related knitting 

X Teaching a male how to knit X Bobbles 

Knitting for a living  X Knitting with cotton 

Knitting smocking Dying yarn 

Steek Knitting art  X Fulling/felting 

X Knitting with wool X Textured knitting 

X Kitchener BO X Purses/bags 

Knitting with beads  X Swatching 

X Long Tail CO  Entrelac

 Knitting and purling backwards  Machine knitting 

X Knitting with self-patterning/self-striping/variegating yarn  X Stuffed toys 

X Baby items  Knitting with cashmere

X Darning Jewelry 

Knitting with synthetic yarn Writing a pattern 

Gloves  X Intarsia

X Knitting with linen X Knitting for preemies

 Tubular CO  Freeform knitting 

Short rows Cuffs/fingerless mitts/arm warmers

 Pillows X Knitting a pattern from an online knitting magazine

Rug Knitting on a loom 

Thrummed knitting X Knitting a gift

 Knitting for pets  X Shrug/bolero/poncho 

Knitting with dog/cat hair  Hair accessories

X Knitting in public

47 out of 97, not bad but as I said so many fibers and techniques to discover and experience.

Finally some FOs are making the scene.

2010-06-19T06:22:00.000-07:00

June's Rav Challenge began with me finally completing my sister Katie's cardigan. What a struggle I had with this one. Unfortunately it was not due to the writing of the pattern or the techniques involved but as my notes say on my project form on Rav, it was all due to a poor choice of yarn for that pattern. This poor choice was really only fully discovered after knitting up the whole back and two side pieces. Self striping yarn and three separate pieces of the garment and nothing was matching up. Duh! What was I thinking! Well, I frogged it and then proceeded to begin again.

The second start was only made worse by the darkness of winter here in England. Then hearing others saying that they had lost their "knitting mojo". Well, I began to think evil thoughts of this project but then thought of my dear sister waiting for her gift and on I knitted.

So, here it is, in all its glory and will be UPSed to my sister as soon as I arrive in the US. I wish I could deliver it in person but alas our plans don't take us even near Maine. Hopefully I will get a picture of her wearing her "big hug" from her big sister! When I do, I will add it to the gallery of pictures I have on this project. More to come later!

Did you think I forgot how to blog?

2010-06-10T00:32:00.000-07:00

My mind is not Jello I promise. I have been up to so many things that blogging just never has time in the schedule but I will get better.

Since my last post, the weather finally warmed up enough by May 10th to plant our seedlings outside in the small raised beds we have in the back garden. So now there is available counter space for all the other projects going on. We also got some container gardening going on as well with out sweet green pepper plants flourishing as well. So we are just hoping that there will be sufficient rain to keep them all happy and we see some fruit from our labors. I am hopeful. I also have some Sweet Basil and Oregano plants on the windowsill in the kitchen. Tonight I will use it for the first time as I make a fresh batch of Italian meatballs to go with some pasta.

That sounds lovely and yummy on this gray summer day but I will use restraint when cooking as I love pasta but it doesn't help weight loss especially for me. I am back on the trail of losing weight! Some has managed to creep back on this frame and I just don't like what I am seeing. I only have myself to blame so self is back treating myself as well as I hope I treat others!

Some of the other projects on the board are:

1. the alterations to Aileen's Threepenny Pullover. It turns out that the shoulder shaping is all wrong for her so after some help from one of the ladies at my LYS, I am carefully taking the neckband off and frogging it only as far as I need to reform the shoulders. My deadline for this alteration is June 25th as we leave for the States that day and I want to give it to her when we see her on that trip.

2. birthday cards and Father's Day cards for all of our June and July family members: 12th-Megan, 13th-me and my sister Katie, 14th-Paul, 15th-Paul Stanley and July 4th-Emily. I love making cards and giving them an extra hug and I am particularly proud of how they turned out. I am so thankful for my friend Kara that helps me create these treasures.

3. baby knitting is in full swing! The Moderne Baby Blanket is nearing completion as it is already at 60% or better depending on yarn supplies. I loved it when I found so much available in my stash. And other surprises are in the works as well. The girls should find out what they are having the first week in July so then I can be more specific but yet still so secretive.

There are so many babies coming from November on, I am glad for the head start.

4. Katie's cardigan is finished. I love how it all turned out as well. While on a trip over to HobbyCraft, I found some great buttons to complete it. I don't have my pictures with me right now but I will make sure to post one soon. I can't wait to see if she liked it or not.

So I have been a busy bee but so much more needs to get accomplished. I have joined the UFO summer challenge on Ravelry, so I am looking around for what can be completed that I have totally forgotten about. Now, my question is, can it include other crafts? Probably not for Ravelry but for NanaMary it is a must.

Until next time!

Old MacTriller's Farm & Ministry Update

2010-04-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

Well, the weather is turning to Spring like temperatures here in Bedworth. With that according to the Gardening Magazines April is the month to be busy preparing the soil and planting your seed pots. So here we are 8 days since our last garden update and there has been a lot of germinating going on.

On the left, we have some of the 18 Tomato Seedlings as well as the 2 Coriander, 4 Oregano & 4 Basil plants. Our neighbor, Ken Hill, gave me the brown pot that shows 1 of its 4 shoots of Butternut Squash. We told him we don't like squash but he is probably hoping we will be able to give them what it reaps. Their garden didn't have room for them this year.

On the right, we have the 12 little Sweet Green Pepper plants that have finally come up as well as the 5 cucumber seedlings I planted today.

The seed packets tell me that I am not to plant any of this until at least the first of May and some more as late as mid to late May, so hold on for more pics as the adventure continues. We may have a jungle in our kitchen before it is planting time if everything keeps growing at this rate! I am surprised though that anything came up at all with my "brown" thumb. Oh! and today I split up our tomato seedlings as the magazine told me. I am hoping I didn't damage any of the little guys. It is going to be great to have fresh vegetables from our garden in July, August and September!

Now on the ministry front, please pray for the Children's Development team as the four of us go back to Zvolen, Slovakia for another training module as well as preaching in 4 of the Church Plant churches on Sunday. Lynn, Sarah and I will have the opportunity on Thursday to present a Kids Klub to the children in Brezno, Slovakia as well as my fact finding time for future teams to visit and bless Peter & Lucia's church in Brezno this Autumn and beyond. During the training I will also be determining the need for teams in the other area churches. If you have a heart for missions and want to work with some pretty amazing church leaders as we impact their cities for Christ, please email me at mary.triller@nlieurope.com for more details. There are so many still that have never heard of Jesus!

More on the trip tomorrow as I have some donated knitted items to carry along with me. Until tomorrow!

Spring and a New Possible Hobby

2010-04-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

No, I haven't given up knitting, card making or counted cross stitch but I have started gardening with my husband. We are on the edge of Bedworth with farm land all around us, neighbors that have beautiful gardens, front and back so we decided to join in.

We have prepared the garden beds by removing the weeds, stones and branches that had collected last autumn. This weekend we transplanted the plants that came up in the meantime as they are all the old bulbs that come up year after year. And turned the dirt so that we can plant our seeds and seedlings some time this month, we hope.

And then the seedlings are coming along. Previously, I wouldn't have been able to keep anything alive and now we have these seedlings shown above.!!!!

Can't wait to see what happens when it gets warmer we can transplant these new Tomato plants and Sweet Green Pepper plants.

Saturdays are made fro fun!

2010-03-27T16:19:00.000-07:00

Today was a fantastically fun day. It was great as I had a wonderful time volunteering at the NEC Birmingham. The National Exhibition Centre was the stage of the Sewing for Pleasure/Fashion & Embroidery as well as the Hobbycraft Show. So many vendors and so many visitors, it was wonderful.

I helped with the Knit One, Pass It On campaign for the UK Handknitters Association. It was fantastic as we had the time and the supplies to teach anyone who asked to learn how to knit and crochet or ask any technique question as well. We had so many young and old and it was fantastic.

I also had time to walk around the show and wow, there are so many choices in papercraft supplies, art supplies of every kind, fabric, sewing machines, needlecraft supplies and of course so many beautiful yarns and fibers.

I love volunteering and knitting!

Sweater Success

2010-03-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

My last post reported the most heartbreaking story of bad judgement, frogging and feeling pretty bad all around as I really wanted to get this sweater I am making to my sister. (Sorry for the run on sentence!) But that is all out of my system, I am about to finish the left front of the sweater. This leaves only the sleeves and the collar to do!

I have learned many lessons from this cardigan and for that I am glad. I promise never to forget.

I decided to knit all three pieces together at the same time with two balls of yarn to make the striping somewhat random. When I had to shape for the sleeves, I put the two front pieces stitches on stitch holders and completed the back with the two balls of yarn. To keep the randomness, I picked up the stitches of each side and knitted with three balls of yarn. So far so good. Tonight I will cast on the two sleeves so I will use three balls each sleeve. I am so excited!!!!

Have some fantastic plans for the weekend to share with you as well but I will save those for tomorrow! Chat with you then!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T07:13:00.001-08:00

For all of you who are thinking I have abandoned this blog, I apologize for the lack of activity. This last few months have been filled with knitting, cardmaking, country walks, snow, cooking, entertaining, working on a few big events that are coming up later in 2010 on the ministry side of life and the list goes on. Just apologizing and no excuse making as I know we are all busy. I just need some balance.

I have been learning some lessons about my knitting projects:

Lesson #1-Do not let a store clerk talk you into a purchase. I found this great LYS on our country walk which included stopping in at Hoar Craft Farm. That is where I found"Natural Fibers". This situation was not entirely her fault so please visit the shop and be prepared to buy from a pattern she has there or have yours in your hand. Mistake #1 was not following what I just said. Found this great yarn for a cardigan for my youngest sister Katie, I thought. It would work well for the color, yardage needed for the pattern, but in my haste and totally believing she checked out the yarn for what I requested, I didn't check the care instructions. I needed machine washable, it was dry clean only. Okay, same on me and so back to the store.

Lesson #2-Make sure you ask about their return policy. Her policy is store credit only, so I am worried but hopefully to find what I needed. Found a wonderful acrylic self striping yarn and begin knitting. Now I still have a credit at the shop so home I go to begin this project. All I am thinking is that I should get it done as quickly as possible as it is very cold in Maine and Katie is waiting for the cardigan.

Lesson #3- Ask yourself the question, is this the correct yarn for this pattern? I began knitting and completed the back of the size 18 sweater, the left front side and then when I am beginning the right front, it occurs to me what is happening. Nothing is matching because everything is being done separately. Heartache of the error lasts about 4 hours and I begin again. I am now doing all three sections together on a circular and will work on the sleeves matching when I get to that part of the pattern.

Now I don't believe in Knitting Mojo or anything like that but I do know that after all these years of knitting, I should know better. And now I do, I am a much wiser yarn customer and knitter because of this project. Some lessons are harder to learn than others I guess. So keep this project in your prayers as I begin again that it will go well. I so want this to turn out beautifully for her. She deserves the very best. I will post pictures as I go along, I promise.

Happy Knitting everyone!

I am so sorry I haven't written!

2009-12-07T19:20:00.001-08:00

So much has happened since the 30th of November! December 3rd we flew out of the country to see our oldest daughter, son in law and their two daughters in Nicaragua. We have been on the run ever since! Paul has pictures of many of the things we have done on the trip so as soon as the jet lag subsides this weekend I will let you all in on the wonders of the trip!

Chat with you soon!

What a weekend!

2009-11-30T12:52:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was wonderful here with our neighbors and friends. Missed all but three minutes of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade as our guest were arriving for dinner but even the few minutes helped wipe away the homesickness. After our guests left, the fun on the internet began! Tokbox with all of the kids and grandkids at the same time. It was as if we were all together in one place. Everyone speaking at the same time-Ali and Emi dancing, Penny showing off her paper turkey and sisters trying to get a word in edge-wise, precious!!! I love my family.

Friday was not the biggest shopping day of the year like in the states but it was back to work for us. And it was great as I got to see some great people from Slovakia that had come to NLI for some training as well as other work for the day.

Saturday brought a whole new adventure as Birmingham is hosting the Frankfurt Christmas Market. Frankfurt is Birmingham's sister city. I had heard so many wonderful stories about the market so we made our way up there to explore along with our friends Peter and Lucia from Slovakia. We saw so many different kinds of handmade candies, handmade knits, sausages, donuts, Christmas decorations and much, much more. We were in the City Centre with hundreds of shops so we explored. Here on the right is the most fantastic knitted items I had ever seen. I just stared as I wondered how they did each of the statues without injuring their hands. Wow! I was impressed.

Then Sunday came, a day that will never be forgotten! Yesterday was the anniversary of my mother's death. She left this earth far earlier than she should have, 75 years young. I pray that I will see her in heaven. Dolores Elaine Kuhn November 22, 1933-November 29, 2008. I miss you!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

2009-11-26T04:34:00.000-08:00

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalms 100:4-5

First and foremost, God is on my heart. Because of this, all my other thank yous follow: thank you for my fantastic, loving husband Paul, for my beautiful girls and their spouses Megan and Wayne, Aileen and Jason, Erin and Paul, and for our three beautiful granddaughters, for my Dad and Elayne, for all the Triller and Kuhn clans that make up our extended family, for all my knitting friends-old and new, our NLI family all over the world, my FB friends I have re-connect with, my Rep Services family, as well as MIM and all our friends all over Florida, and the list goes on.

Although we are in England, Thanksgiving will be celebrated and taught to our neighbors today as we come together for dinner tonight as well as our new friend Sara from New Mexico who is also far from home this day. Here is what part of our feast looked like about one and half hours ago.

Love to you all!

A little bit of the familiar!

2009-11-21T12:21:00.000-08:00

This year with all the changes, I have decided that Thanksgiving would be traditionally American as there isn't a British counterpart to this holiday. So off to the Coventry market to pick up the last item to make it complete. Mission accomplished! Then while trying to find our way back to the car, we stopped in Marks & Spencer and found another favorite to add to our feast.

For Christmas, things will be different. I am learning about Christmas pudding and many other local favorites. But for now I am thankful.

Been busy but the knitting projects are still going!

2009-11-19T15:19:00.000-08:00

I have to keep this short but I have finished a gift for Penny. Her first Apple Hat is much too small to cover her little ears so Mommy asked me to make her another one. With a friend's help, she will have it for Christmas!

Now I am switching gears a bit, still crafting but counted cross stitch and cardmaking are next on the agenda. I will show you what I have come up with along the way!

This has been exciting!

2009-11-13T09:45:00.000-08:00

Last night and today have been fantastic. We are putting on Kidshaper UK 09 in Coventry! We have fantastic people and speakers here that truly have been broken hearted for the children of this world. This is the reason I have volunteered at Next Level International. We are working with Children's Pastors and workers from all over England, Scotland, Ireland and a couple even flew over from Australia to hear the information that is being communicated here.

I really can't wait for our next trip into one of the countries the national pastors are being trained. And planning has begun for Slovakia Boost Tour-July 31st-August 14th. We need people with a heart for the kids to share the Lord with them in an exciting way. Want to come along?

More tomorrow!

Another FO knitted with love!

2009-11-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

My last Neckdown Bolero is finished and ready to be shipped. I am so pleased at how fast this went and how soft the yarn feels. I used Bernat Cashmere 65% Acrylic, 30% Nylon and 5% Cashmere, but the Cashmere shines through. This one is for my mother in law and I am hoping to get it to her for Christmas.

Now what can I start? An Apple Hat for Penny! Happy Knitting!

2 Days Away from Kidshaper

2009-11-10T08:28:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I am here in England serving as a missionary with Next Level International. I am working in the Leadership Development area focusing on training Children's pastors and workers all over Europe. Our Kidshaper conference is our program in the UK. We have pastors and childrens workers from the England, Ireland, Scotland and Australia coming to our event which kicks off on Thursday night. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers as our team from NLI, our speakers and the delegates train to improve their ministries to children in their congregations and surrounding communities. I took this picture of all the nametags we made the other day-over 150 will be in attendance!

What happens when you don't measure!

2009-11-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

Thought I was finished Mom's sweater but found one sleeve was shorter than the other one! Added another skein to the arm and knitting I am on it. Have too many things to finish before Christmas, but who doesn't!
Next project was going to be my lace scarf with the Malabrigo from my stash, but I had a special request. The next project is for Penny-a new larger Apple Hat. Needs to be finished for Derrick to take back to the states and I think that is do-able, but we will see.
Good night for now!

Friday Night Bonfire Day Fun!

2009-11-08T13:24:00.000-08:00

Our first Bonfire night was a success with friends, fireworks and fun. We had a number of families join us for some great fun. Here is everyone out on the back porch in the garden. John, Paul and Phil were our pyrotechs of the evening. We invited everyone in for snacks-John made Tiramusu, Christine a great cheeses & crackers platter, AK Savories, Me Chocolate Chocolate Cupcakes and so much more. Here are some pictures of the fun:

Happy Guy Fawkes Day-November 5th

2009-11-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

Today in merry old England is Guy Fawkes Day or Bonfire Night as they call it now. Here's a little history about this night in England:

On the evening of every November 5, patriotic Englishmen recall the so-called Gunpower Plot of 1605 to restore the monarchy, hatched by Catholic restorationists to be carried by one Guy Fawkes. Fawkes had spent ten years in the service of King Philip I of Spain and had gained considerable experience with explosives. The theory goes that certain Catholics, led by Robert Catesby, wished to see an end to Protestant persecution of Catholics in the realm, and wish to put to death the Protestant ascendancy in the person of King James I. To do so, a plot was hatched to detonate barrels of black powder beneath the Houses of Parliament while the King and parliament conferred.
Guy Fawkes was caught in the act and eventually tortured in the Tower. He was sentenced to die by being hanged, drawn, and quartered. However, was able to throw himself from the scaffold and break his neck before the last lugubrious part of his sentence could be carried out.
Ever since then, Guy Fawkes has been hung and burnt in effigy, as bonfires are lit in Merry Olde England in his memory. The chant that has long been repeated is as follows:
Remember, remember, the fifth of November, Gunpowder, treason and plot;I see no reason why Gunpowder Treason should ever be forgot.A stick and a stake for King James’ sake!Holla, boys, Holla, make the town ring;Holla, boys, Holla, boys, God save the King.
The date was also once celebrated in America, as was noted by the New York Gazette on November 7, 1737. “Saturday last, being the ffith of November, it was observed here in memory of the horrid and treasonable popish gunpowder plot to blow up and destroy King, Lords and commons and the gentlemen of his Majesty’s council. The Assembly and Corporation and others the principal gentlemen and merchants of this city, waited upon his honor, the Lieutenant Governor at For George, where the royal healths were drunk as usual under the discharge of cannon, and at night the city was illuminated.”
Today the Eastern church celebrates the feast of St. Galacteon, the spouse of a pagan woman named Epistemis. Following her conversion, Galacteon and Epistemis sold all their worldly goods and gave the proceeds to the poor. Galacteon begame a xenobitic hermit, while Epistemis joined a community of women. Arrested for his faith during the Emperor Decius’ persecution of Christians in Phoenicia, Galacteon was joined by his wife. Together they faced torture, beheading, and martyrdom. Gaius Messius Quintus Decius was emperor from 249 to 251 AD, but no death date is known for the two martyrs. The emperor and his son met their doom during the Battle of Abrittus in what is now modern Bulgaria.

Toad in the hole with apple and rosemary
Give this classic comfort dish a twist by adding eating apples. Buying British fruit and pork will support local producers and keep food miles down.
Preparation: 10 minutes/ Cooking time:45 minutes
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 red skinned apples, washed and cored
8 Finest pork and leek sausages
A few springs of fresh rosemary
100 g plain flour
Pinch of salt
2 large eggs
150 ml half fat milk
150 ml water
Preheat the oven to Fan 200degree C/ 400degree F/ Gas Mark 7. Place the oil in a large roasting tin and place in the oven to heat up. Cut each apple into about 8 wedges. Cut each apple into about 8 wedges.
Remove the hot roasting tin from the oven add the sausages, apple wedges and rosemary and roast for 10mins or until beginning to brown. Whilst the sausages cook, place the flour in a bowl with the salt. Make a well in the centre and break in the eggs. Gradually whisk in the milk and water until the mixture is smooth. Set aside.
Remove the roasting tin from the oven and shake well, pour over the batter then return to the oven and bake for 30-35mins or until golden and risen. Serve with vegetables and gravy.

And to warm your cockles as the Tesco ad says, "to warm your cockles on Bonfire Night":

Spiced Apple Punch

Ideal for bonfire night, this warming drink will go down very well. Make it greener by juicing British apples yourself.

Preparation: 5 minutes/ Cooking time:10 minutes
1 litre apple juice
3 star anise
2 cloves
1 crumbled cinnamon stick
1 lemon sliced
1 clementine sliced

Place one litre of apple juice in a large saucepan with three star anise, two cloves and a crumbled cinnamon stick.
Add a sliced lemon and sliced clementine.
Gently heat until hot and leave to infuse for 10 minutes before serving in mugs or heat proof tumblers.
Cook's tip: For an adult version, replace half the apple juice with dry cider and add two tbsp apple brandy

Our celebration will be tomorrow night so our friends' kids can attend as well. No bonfire here but we will, I repeat, will have fireworks. Mostly everyone attending will bring some. So happy Guy Fawkes Day to you all!

My first UK knitting night

2009-11-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, I went over and met with a handful of the ladies that usually attend. Tomorrow is a holiday here-Guy Fawkes Day. A bit of English history that I may go into tomorrow night as I am just too tired now. But believe me, it is a big deal. Another name is Bonfire Night and it includes fireworks and parties. We are going to have our celebration Friday night so some of the families can bring their kids and it's not a school night.

Well anyway back to knitting group. I had a great time and I think my husband had a relaxing evening without me there at the house as well. We spend all our time together even sit 2 desks away from each other so a little break is good for us.

I was able to take a picture of the ladies- Midlands UK Crafters:

Some beautiful work was being accomplished too. One was working on a cardigan in ribbon yarn, one knitting a lace scarf, me working on the white bolero, another crocheting a lace doily and two learning how to make cables. One of the ladies knitting the cables is blind or at the very least sight impaired. She was amazing to watch as she so meticulously knitted away. Here's what they made:

Great job ladies!

I have found a knitting group!

2009-11-03T09:02:00.000-08:00

A little while ago I opened up a message on Ravelry from the moderator of the Midlands UK Crafters. They meet on Wednesday nights at a hotel in the bar area in Coventry. If I think about it, the meeting place is closer than the Barnes & Noble NYKG meets in, so I am going to try it out tomorrow night.

Wish me luck that I feel like I fit in but more importantly that I find the place. I am pretty proficient here in Bedworth but driving in Coventry is another story. But I have to think that I will eventually need to drive in that direction and this is for the best reason I can think of, so I will go!

Also there is a very large craft store that is over there called HobbyCraft so I might wander in that direction too. I don't need to buy anything quite yet for any of the crafts I participate in, but it never hurts to look and see what is available.

Oh I am so excited! It has been over 4 months since I have been to a knitting group. After the every week meetings, I am having withdrawal symptoms and after all this together time with my dear husband, we could both use a break. So it is therapy for both of us!

Can't wait to tell you all about it tomorrow!

Day 2 of my quest to blog daily!

2009-11-02T11:43:00.000-08:00

I have been working away at my last for a long time, Neckdown Bolero. This one is for my mother in law and needs to be completed by the 30th of November for my shipping co-worker to take back to the States for me. I think I am going to make that deadline with plenty of time to spare. I am 10 decreases and a cuff away from finishing! I better get busy picking out the perfect buttons to complete this hug of a sweater in style. Now back to knitting!

Happy November Everyone!

2009-11-01T05:35:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is November already. We have seen the leaves change here in Bedworth and it has been simply beautiful all the red, oranges, golds. This is the first time in 20 years that I haven't had to trick myself into remembering that it is Autumn.

I am still working out how to practice some of our families' traditions while here in England as I embrace the English traditions around me. Some things just have to be done differently if I am to keep them up. One tradition is to have a cornocupia to decorate the house. Back in the day when I was growing up, we traveled to Brooklyn, NY to celebrate Thanksgiving at Grandma Kelly's house with she and my Uncle Don's family. It was always a time of wonder for all of us kids. We would arrive to the turkey roasting in the oven, music in the air or sounds of the Macy's Day Parade on the TV and goodies all around. Grandma had this beautiful sideboard on one side of the dining room. It held the cornucopia in the center and this basket was filled with brightly colored fruit, nuts of every type and candies. Then you saw the pies, the breads and more to each side.

Well our gatherings are not as large so I have had a scaled down version of Grandma's goodies, but the cornucopia has always been a part. Well, I learned quickly here that vegetables are a commodity to be eaten and not displayed so I have not found the ornamental gourds and baby pumpkins I am used to. I thought and thought and found this pattern to keep alive this tradition. First I brought along my mini cornucopia and some of the plastic fruits knowing that this was one thing that would keep me from getting homesick and then started knitting. Here is this year's rendition of Paul and my cornucopia. The rest will be set out on Thanksgiving Day.

Perhaps next year I will be able to add some knitted gourds to add more color, but for now, we have our symbol of the harvest. I am thankful for the simple things like this and realize each day how truly blessed we are.

Wanderings through the English countryside

2009-10-25T04:21:00.000-07:00

Here in England we have found some Country Parks with posted guides through the hiking trails. These trails include the surrounding farms, canals, towns, etc. A few weeks ago, before autumn officially began here, Paul and I were out for a hike and came across this farm. Paul had to laugh as he said I am not very far away from some form of yarn or wool. Here is a sight commonly seen all over the UK that I wanted to share with everyone. Enjoy!

Today is rather a windy day but if it calms down perhaps we can get some foliage pictures for my Florida friends to enjoy. I will do my best.

A quick gift is in production!

2009-10-19T02:37:00.000-07:00

I know that I have said alot about the Neckdown Boleros I have made over the last few months, but this is a great gift to whip up for someone. It is simple in construction but so useful. This bolero is for my mother-in-law, Gertrude. She is a dear and while she lives in Rutland, Vermont is always trying to stay warm. Hopefully when she puts it on, it will feel like a big hug from Paul and I. I have an inch or two left to knit on the length before adding the body ribbing, the collar and then to work the sleeves but progress is being made. I believe I will have this finished well before my deadline of November 30th! Well that's enough speculation, back to knitting...

What a month it has been!

2009-10-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

Here I am asking my youngest daughter if she is ever going to post anything to her blog and I haven't been either! I apologize.

We are doing well here in sunny Bedworth! But both Paul and I have been away not once but twice. September included a trip to Slovakia for me and a trip to Romania for Paul. Both for our different ministry departments we are volunteering for and so with my travels, I have been knitting internationally again but I have been smart to stow it away in my checked luggage.

I have been trying to work through my stash somewhat so I have also been queuing up potential projects when taking a break from the knitting up of them. Here is Penny's Neckdown Bolero that should be on its way to her due to the kindness of some other American co-volunteers from NLI. They will carry my pieces over and then ship them from their home in South Bend, IN. That saves us a lot of money as shipping internationally is very expensive.

I did want to make one comment about Karoake yarns by Southwest Trading Company. They have some great color combinations but this particular striping isn't what I expected. The other two purchases striped much nicer. I am thinking I am going to make my youngest granddaughter another sweater as I am not as happy with how it turned out. So my warning is to test out the striping so you get the results you expect.

With this idea of keeping shipping costs down, I am now working as fast as I can on my Mother-in-law's gift- a Woman's Neckdown Bolero. I had picked up the pattern last summer from Marnie thinking I might want something to wrap my shoulders in while keeping my hands and arms free on those cold winter nights. Well, Mom needs one as well so I knit on! I am not to far away from dividing for the sleeves, but need to keep on it. My next shipping opportunity is November 30th if travel arrangements work out as expected. Here is what I have so far!

Then of course I see the Interweave Holiday Edition adverts in my Inbox and begin thinking of decorating the house for Autumn/Thanksgiving. Yes, we are going to celebrate with a real Turkey dinner. I have already found a couple of places where I can purchase a Turkey breast for our feast. But pumpkins are another matter. I am on the hunt for a 8" circumference pumpkin as that is the largest they can be for pumpkin pie meat. No one sells pumpkin in the can over here. Megan and I have prepared our own pumpkin from scratch so that isn't the issue. So I search on. I am going to try one of the many garden centers in our area this weekend. My other pumpkin dilemna is one for my cornucopia. In the States, I have purchased a tiny pumpkin and gourds for this decoration. Not even wanting to search every year for this item, I searched for a knitted pattern and found one from http://www.curlypurly.com/ . And I bought some orange yarn for the project as well from my local LYS. Here is what I want to make without the jack o' lantern face.

Well, there is so much more to share but I have to get some knitting in tonight. A happy hello to all my NYGK buddies. It's Tuesday and although I am 6 hours ahead of you, I will enjoy some hot chocolate as if I am at Barnes & Noble with you. I hope I find a local knitting group soon, I miss it so much! Bye for now!

My Threepenny Pullover is now complete!

2009-09-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

I am so excited but need to keep this post short as I am on at work and am getting ready to leave for Slovakia in the early hours of the morning but I couldn't resist posting a picture of the long awaited sweater.

Just emailed Aileen so she knows it is finished and so as soon as she can, I hope to post a picture of her modeling her gift. Also there was some yarn left over so I am making her a Star Crossed Slouchy Beret as a bonus gift. Due to the high cost of shipping from the UK to the US, I have asked some co workers who are coming across for a conference here to carry our gifts back with them so I should be able to finish the Beret and the 3rd Neckdown Bolero in Blues and Yellow for our favorite 2 year old granddaughter as well. I love it when a plan comes together!

So celebrate with me!!!! Another knitting success under my belt and more adventures in knitting to come. When I return I hope to share pictures of our container coming and the unpacking process. We received it on Friday so it feels a bit like Christmas with all the paper wrappings and boxes about as well as knowing that everything arrived safely-it feels more like home everyday.

Progress at last!

2009-08-27T06:51:00.001-07:00

As you can see both the front and back panels of the sweater are finished. In previous posts I have shown the two completed sleeves. I know the sleeves are usually made last but I needed a break from the repeat of the pattern and I am so glad I did take that much needed break. When I did get back to knitting the front panel, it went so well. I was released from the stress and moved on. I have also knitted the bottom bands and the wrist bands as well. Because of the differences in the panels, the edge turned out quite rough but the bands help everything lay more evenly and because they also include a cable, it finishes off the sweater magnificently. The designer of this pattern should be commended for all the design features they included.

I have begun the seaming and weaving in on the body and sleeves of the sweater as well so all that needs to be completed is the seaming and banding around the neckline. So I will post pictures of the completed sweater sooner than even I expected. The wonderful thing is that Aileen may get to wear this garment before the first flakes of snow fall. This excites me! Also after all this work, I don't have to worry about shipping the sweater from here. Some coworkers are coming this way for an in office meeting and our EuroSummit in Madrid both in October so they will carry it back to the states and UPS it from Indiana. This will be safer I hope. So after I show Aileen the finished product, I will make sure to come in and update this project with a post of the final product. Happy Birthday Aileen! You are going to love it!

Watch out Bedworth-I am going solo!

2009-08-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

Today was a day to mark on the calendar! I drove all by myself today and it was all the way across town. It was truly liberating to know that Paul feels confident in my skills. Thanks honey! It is a big deal after having a chauffer for the last month after having a car of my own for over 10 years or so.

Now the next step is to get out the TomTom and take a drive on the A444 which is like 436 in Altamonte Springs, FL. A road Megan thinks I am afraid to drive on, heehee. And then on to the big time, the M4, like I-4 again back in FL. But the craziness is in town! You can park anywhere along the roadway, in whatever direction you want to face, with a little of your car on the road
or the whole thing so maneuvering down the narrow streets with all that going on is wonderfully startling as a big truck is coming the other way. Then there is the yielding to the right at intersections-a great plan for traffic flow but so different for this new UK driver. Oh well-onward!

Well that is all from here for now!

An unexpected gift and more!

2009-08-17T01:32:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, we are in England and trying to adjust to life here. There have been tough times of missing our family in all of their various places and making adjustments here and there just to fit in. But yesterday, I was again reminded that I am not alone as my Father in Heaven is right beside me and making provision for Paul and I along the way.

Yesterday's reminder was through the praise and worship songs at the church we were visiting. I especially miss the familiar on Sunday mornings. I yearn to hug those I called my church family and to sing the familiar songs but also to sing along with Wayne, Nathan and if it were possible again with Jason. These are the three praise and worship leaders that I have sung with for the last 12 to 15 years and I miss them terribly. But God is making it easier to cope with.
At an Afrikan church English speaking service we had been invited to by a co-worker, the songs were those that Wayne would have led-This is the Air I Breathe the one that made me realize what was happening. After service, I went up and thanked the three that led the worship to find out that this wasn't the worship service that was originally planned. I laughed when I heard that knowing that again plans were rearranged to meet me in the moment. Unfortunately some of the full band had fallen ill so the lead guitarist, re-wrote his list of songs to accomodate the remaining three with just a guitar. After sharing my need to hear the familiar we were both laughing knowing that God had orchestrated the whole thing. And I am praying for the others to be well. (It's not all about me, even though it sounds like it!) So my lesson here is to keep seeking His face and abiding in Him because even when it doesn't feel like it, He is close by even in the smallest of things!

And I have an announcement-I have begun to drive-and I have stayed on the correct side of the road. Saturday I drove to the grocery store and this morning I drove to the office. As much as I thought I would have difficulty with the other side of the road it is more the new car I am getting used to. So pray for Paul's patience as we drive around together as I learn the yields, speed bumps, different lighting schemes, roundabouts, and any other oddities of the road over here.

Also I have finished the front of the Threepenny Pullover. I am now working on the bands for the sleeves and hems. Pictures tomorrow I promise!

Love you all and miss you!

Short Threepenny Pullover Update

2009-08-10T02:30:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how fast a sweater can go when you finally get the pattern somewhat memorized! Unfortunately I don't have a picture at this time but I can tell you that I have bound off for the sleeve shaping and within an inch of the neck shaping on the front of the sweater. My goal was to ship it in time for Aileen's birthday and at this rate I will make it with time to spare. I should also be able to make and send Penny's Neckdown Bolero in the same package. Shipping from here to the states is a new experience for me so I will ship them together with insurance for sure and a prayer it makes it over safely.

Well that is all for now. Love you all!

An Update on Yesterday's Post

2009-07-30T05:49:00.000-07:00

As I went passed the shop I saw their sign on the other side of the building. Our LYS is called Bits And Bobs Habedashery! That's it for now!

Bedworth has a LYS!

2009-07-28T05:18:00.000-07:00

Today has been quiet for me so I decided to take a walk into town to explore. I was hoping that a store I noticed the other day while driving by was what I thought it was and it is. And thankfully it was the knitting shop I was looking for. The shop's name is unknown but painted on the outside of the building is "Arts & Crafts & Picture Framing". While passing, I saw some skeins of yarn and some sample sweaters.

Well, I have made a new friend with the shopkeep, Linda. I told her that I had just moved to Bedworth and that I was a knitter. I think right then we were friends for life. In the 10 minutes I was there, I told her about my current projects, Ravelry, PlanetPurl.com, NYGK and she told me all about the services her store provides. She not only sells the yarn, the patterns and notions, she also sells the ready mades as well. So she is a gift shop as well. And for my non-knitting time, she also sells DMC floss so if I run out I don't have to go all the way to Coventry!

Linda does host a knitting group on Tuesdays and Thursdays but it is from 11 to 3! I can go while we are at our current office address as it is a 5 min walk up the road but when we move the offices, I will have to work a long lunch in to be able to participate. We will just have to see.

The best part is that she has also invited me to "darts & domis". She and the ladies play darts and dominos in a pub right down the road from her shop. I asked about the men and she said they meet on the alternate evenings. So I may give it a try! Who knows I may like it!

Well, that's all from the UK today. Bye!

Something I have learned!

2009-07-23T03:50:00.000-07:00

We had the opportunity to go appliance shopping as we are in need of the following: washer, tumbler and a cooker. Or as we would say a washer, dryer and a stove. Besides the names being different, I found that there are different ways to do your laundry here as well. No I don't mean hot/warm/cold or handwash, but to have one machine do both washing and then dry the clothes. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it for myself but it is true. Once the laundry has been washed you wait a period of time and then set it for the drying cycle. Not a time saver as it is one load at a time and from my fellow co-workers, the results are rather disappointing as well so Paul and I have an estimate for three separate units to be delivered and installed as soon as we get the keys which should be early next week.

Also I found out that I live in a town without a proper knitting shop! I have found some stores with very small assortments of acrylic yarn and sewing kits but nothing more. So I will definitely be working through my stash when it arrives and in the meantime, I will be searching out the local shops. I think I will do a pictoral yarn crawl as an incentive for all of you to come over here to visit. Start saving your pennies.

Miss you all but will be reading along with your blogs so keep posting so we can stay in touch!

The Adventures of a Nana in the UK

2009-07-15T04:43:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon everyone! Paul and I are well rested and well loved here at NLI Bedworth. Our reception at NLI has been fantastic. We did our usual routine of staying awake all of our first day here and made it until about 10 pm. That was a great accomplishment we thought. Paul and I are now staying with Mel & Wendy Bolton as we search out our first apartment/house to rent.

As far as renting goes, we have seen one property this morning which taught us alot of the differences in housing here versus the US. Did you know that there is such an appliance that doubles as a washer and a dryer? Not a stackable but one machine! Did you know that when you rent in the UK that you can take the light fixtures, curtains, the carpet as well? Yes, the carpet I couldn't believe it either. Well, we will be looking at some other properties this afternoon so we will have to see what God has for us.

On a knitting note, before we took off, we had visited with Paul's family and our daughter Aileen and her family was there as well. One of the things I packed in my luggage was the Threepenny Pullover and I had a chance to check the sizing. I have been knitting to gauge and the sizing is working out great. I am on the second of many repeats of the pattern so it is coming along. I will post pictures of this and many other events since our departure soon.

Love and miss you all!

What a Special Day!!!

2009-07-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 233rd Birthday to our great country!

Happy Birthday to a special 3 year old-our Emily!

The Threepenny Pullover Sleeves Update

2009-07-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

Both sleeves are complete and the front has been started. Here's the photo to show it off!

All the changes around here and the past weekend!

2009-06-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finally getting back blogging after many days away! But I have been busy knitting, making cards, sorting through more stuff and it has all paid off.

This morning a representative from the shipping company came to house to access what our true shipping needs would be. After another garage sale and donating that which hasn't sold, Paul and I will have managed to have only what is needed and what will fit in a 7' x 7' x 4' container! Oh, that was feat to say the least but we will have our most cherished items with us and then more stored at Erin & Paul's for when we return. Thank you so much for keeping the family pictures for us.

I am so excited. As soon as Thursday we may be making the arrangements for the live ship to happen. But more on that later.

Now that I have posted all that news I can tell you all about our wonderful visit with Erin and Paul. We had a wonderful time! Paul, Erin's dad, had not seen their new house except for the pictures on the computer, so there were many reasons to go. It was an adventure for both of us as until their move, Paul hadn't ever been past Tallahassee on I-10 and I had never been on I-10!

Paul and I also enjoy staying B&Bs when we travel so Paul searched and found the Schoolhouse Inn in Milton about 20 mins from the Stanleys. Well, as you can see it was a quaint place but in the middle of nowhere at Adventures Unlimited! A wonderful place to take the family-historical and wonderful for the outdoor type. I say historical as many of the cabins and outer buildings have been trucked in to carry the theme. The name of our inn was quite appropriate as it was originally a schoolhouse. Our room was the William Faulkner room and included copies of many of his works for our reading pleasure.

I immediately thought of a couple of my knitting buddies that would love the charm of this place-Kelly, Becky and Laura. But there is more! To our surprise, it was not a B&B so no breakfast was available. I asked the man who checked us in if I should make arrangements for breakfast and he looked so confused it was cute when he said, " Well you have a coffee pot, a microwave and a small refrigerator". Oh well, we made other arrangements! :)

Paul and Erin's house is beautiful as they are selecting paint colors, installed fencing and sodded the backyard and then we got to meet the new addition to the family-Barrett. He is your typical puppy with all his energy and playfulness but he obeys most of the time unlike other puppies I have known. He is going to be a great pet.

While visiting them, Paul S smoked some great chicken for dinner on Saturday night and all the fixings that Erin made from their local produce. It was fantastic!

On Sunday, we were prayed over at Paul & Erin's church, First City Church, Pensacola. What a fantastic group of people! Great message and transparency. We were just visitors but they made us feel like we were at home. We also got to speak to a number of people about our ministry so we will have to see if they tag along on the journey through our monthly updates. The more the merrier as we are continually saying, We do not go alone!

After quick lunch, we got on our swimsuits and took advantage of the Adventures Unlimited's activities. We booked ourselves on the tubing tour. What a wonderful idea for such a hot day! And what a way to spend time together-helping each other along, laughing,me floating into the trees over and over again, etc. It was well worth the money for the trip takes 4 hours but again it was a great way to relax so what the hay! And then dinner out, so the relaxing continued. We all slept well-Paul and I to the chirping of the crickets outside.

Monday morning was a tearful time as we said "So Long!" to the Stanleys. Then the drive home. We are both glad that we have such a supportive family. This move to England is going to be hard on all of us but we have Skype, email and Facebook to keep up with each other and family reunions. The first one has a destination but no date-Costa Rica, but more on that much much later.

Next time, I will have an update on the ThreePenny Pullover. All this non-working time and car time has had some beautiful results. Bye!

Mother's Day/Birthday gift yarn is here!

2009-06-19T15:19:00.000-07:00

I just love it when the doorbell rings! Today it brought my KnitPicks order and it came so fast.

For Mother's Day, Megan, Wayne, Alison and Emily gave me a gift certificate for KnitPicks. I was thrilled as I had found the Bristow http://http//www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bristow Cabled Cardigan pattern in an old Knitty magazine and fell in love with it. But their gift wasn't enough for that purchase. Well, I campaigned for another gift certificate but alas the girls had some other wonderful ideas so I asked my husband what he was getting me. He hadn't asked me and as we are cleaning out to leave he was perplexed so I told him about the sweater, the beautiful soft yarn and the email I had received that day announcing KnitPicks sale with free shipping for orders over $50.00. He was thrilled by it all and off I went to the computer.

I am now the proud owner of 14 skeins of KnitPicks Andean Silk yarnhttp://http//www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/knit-picks-andean-silk in Hollyberry. The yarn is the same color as shown in the magazine as it is totally me and great for the holidays as well. That was a double bonus. And did I tell you how soft it is! I can't wait to make this sweater for myself.

Threepenny Update!

2009-05-31T19:11:00.000-07:00

I have challenged myself to get this sweater to my daughter by my departure date. I don't know if it is possible as there is still so much to do, but I am working as if I have to meet that self imposed deadline. Friday noon-ish I casted on the stitches for the two sleeves and it is going remarkably fast. I just love the double cable up the center of the sleeve and believe it or not the seed stitch isn't as bad as I first thought. Again once I learned the pattern, it has become second nature.

If I may be a little sentimental...

2009-05-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

In the last 48 hours, many graduations have been held here in Central Florida and it makes me think of all the hours of learning carpooling to events, constructing of projects, researching of papers, books read, etc that families go through in the 13 years of education that precedes graduation. My hats off to all the moms, dads, grandparents, siblings, teachers, counselors, coaches, etc that make up the team with the student as he/she crosses the stage.

One particular student, Paul and I had the honor of watching across stage was Lauren Hoag. Paul and I have known her family since 1990 and have watched her grow from an infant to the beautiful woman of God she is today. She has referred to herself as our 4th daughter for years which is pretty humbling because we thought the thought of us a parental models would have scared any child as our own girls weren't so sure sometimes. Remember we are all human and we make mistakes and we have made our fair share!

But enough about us, we are proud to be a part of this family as they have allowed us to knit ourselves into the fabric of their lives as we have them into ours. Lauren, Mr. Paul and I love you very much and will be praying for you as you continue in Cosmetology and then on to UCF next year to earn your Business Degree. As you bring along our Lord Jesus Christ, all your dreams will come true. Congratulations Lauren for all your achievements so far and those adventures waiting before you. We look forward to hearing all about them and staying in touch in the future wherever the road leads.

Then I realized last night that I have also had another special person in my life as we were reunited over dinner at Olive Garden. It is Shirley Haynie, Lauren's grandmother. She has been in the background of my Christian walk, my friendship with her daughter's family and my encouragement in knitting! We talked about her projects and then today at the barbecue I was able to show her some of the things I have accomplished. Thanks Nana Shirley for you encouragement and love over the years. Nana is the first person in this picture. All of you Hoag/Haynies rock!

WIP Update

2009-05-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

As I am trying to complete a number of projects in all the crafts I am involved in before I leave, I have a significant success to share. The back of Aileen's Threepenny Pullover has been completed and I have begun the sleeves.

Normally I would have begun the front and then move on to the sleeves, but I think I am going to work both the sleeves and the front at the same time. Obviously though on different needles! There is so much seed stitch on the sleeves (Kelly I feel your pain!) that I think I could jump back and forth between the pieces to keep it interesting.

And if I really need a challenge I may also cast on the third Neckdown Bolero that will be for Penny, but not today.

I am looking around the craft closet and see other WIPs and they are calling me to finish them as well. So nothing new for now!

Couldn't resist having them modeled!

2009-05-27T05:08:00.000-07:00

I presented the girls their sweaters the other day and took pictures. Em's has a little growing into room but Ali's has a lot of growing into room! Nana's hugs will be with them for a while.

Now to begin Penny's sweater so the three girls will have their hugs. So many things to complete and time is growing short! I will keep going I promise.

Update on the Threepenny-shaping for the shoulders for the back and just a few inches away from the back collar! It is turning out nicely!

E's sweater is complete!

2009-05-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally did it. I have finished the second of three Neckdown Boleros. I will present them to A &E on Sunday when they come over to visit. I will be sure to get a shot of them wearing the sweaters and will post. I just love that pattern. It works up so easily! Now to wait for P's measurements and the third will be started but in the meantime, back to Aileen's Threepenny.

Slow but steady wins the race!

2009-05-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Emily's Neckdown Bolero is coming along very nicely-One more sleeve and a button and it will be complete. I know I am not the fastest knitter but I get the job done.

Soon I will also be able to share with you a few other projects I have been trying to complete as well.

As this is also a place to keep track of events and people you care for, I wanted to share what when on last night. I have been a part of a book club here in my neighborhood for the last 6-7 years. They met for dinner and book discussion at Linda's beautiful home. Great times together as they helped me rediscover my love for reading and expand my mind. Thank you ladies! Here is a picture of our group. Thanks for being great friends and neighbors to Paul and I. Front row: Anele Runyion, Liz Wright and I. Back row: Betty, a friend of Liz Wright, Luann Niemann, Dottie Foster, Betty Smith, Bobbi Boggs, Linda Spratt, Linda Jazwiecki and Joy Pinkerton.

Another Yarn Purchase for My Stash!

2009-05-14T07:03:00.001-07:00

I know, I know enough is enough but Laura told us of a sale at Michael's as they are changing over their selections in the Yarn Department. I couldn't pass up a 99 cent sale on Lion Brand Wool Solids and Bernat Cashmere Natural Blends so I purchased the following:

Ocean Blues-a great color for hopefully a great gift or something warm for me as I bought 8 skeins.

Next is my Cashmere Natural Blends for a possible shawl in white and the brown for a hat. Although Paul doesn't think he will need it, I am thinking a hat will be just the ticket to keep him warm in his travels.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T18:48:00.001-07:00

It was a fantastic day! Cards and gifts from my girls and lunch with two of my three granddaughters, daughter and her husband as well as the love of my life, Paul-splendid, like a great big hug.

Happy Mother's Day to all my friends and family who are Moms, Grandmas, Nanas, etc as well as the soon to be moms! My husband asked me what I had for words of advice I had after almost 30 years-"Love always, correct when needed, encourage daily, pray for them with all your heart and nurture a friendship with them so your relationship will be with you all the days of your life. God bless!

Here are a few shots from today's events-

Threepenny Pullover Update

2009-05-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

Aileen-this post is for you. I am so excited to be working on this sweater for you. It is going to be beautiful but so functional. I may even make one for myself. So here is the picture of my progress so far-12 1/2" into it. In another 2 1/2" I will be shaping it for the arm holes!

And Happy Mother's Day to you as well!

Love, Mom

Oh the fun we had!

2009-05-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I hadn't posted anything from our weekend with Alison and Emily. It all began on Wednesday night but we began to have fun on Friday. Megan and Wayne gave her permission to play hooky from school that day so we headed off to Lakeland.

The City of Lakeland's Parks and Rec Department has developed and completed a wonderful park called Common Ground. http://blog.ylakeland.com/?tag=common-ground-park This link tells the whole story but I can show you the pictures of our little ones enjoying themselves. This picture is Alison at the top of the SpaceNet! I was so surprised to see her keep climbing so high, but she wasn't scared and was showing ability so on she went.

Here are the girls taking a rest from running from here to there in front of the statuette beside the Gulpher Mountain. Now you are wondering why drive so far away just to go to a playground. This one is special as I helped with this project while at Rep Services. Much of the equipment in the park was provided by our company. My hats off to the designer of the playground, Carl Sagro and to the Parks and Rec director, Pam Page.

But the weekend didn't stop there. Then there was Saturday and our Express Spa Day. The services of some friends were donated to support two girls who were raising money for their missions trips this summer to Jamaica and Haiti. Alison and I went and were so happy that we did. Ali got a manicure/pedicure from Lauren and I did the full circuit of services.

We both loved the pampering!

Not your traditional visit to your grandma & grandpa's but we are Nana and PopPop so they have learned to expect the unexpected.

Now let's see what we can do this weekend! Happy Mother's Day to you all! Mary

Stitches South and Progress in WIP world

2009-04-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

Stitches South-a little under 1,000 miles, meeting an former member of NYGK group, and 200 booths of beautiful yarns, fibers, buttons, shawl pins, accessories, bargains and all just wonderful. Before we even left Orlando, I had described it as a Piece of Knitter's Heaven on Earth on my FB page. That was an understatement! It was more than I could have imagined.

Thank you Megan for finding out about it and keeping it on our list of things to do as a group.

I touched so many yarns, saw so many colors but like Megan and Adrienne didn't over spend. Here are the treasures that I purchased at the show:

Karaoke - Penny's Neckdown Bolero! SWTC Diva -Evening Jacket for me!

My first purchase of Malabrigo for my first cowl!

There was also alot of knitting going on in the car. Adrienne has probably posted her scarf that she completed and all the lovely stockinette she accomplished on her gray cardigan. Megan worked on her blanket and balled up some free sock yarn from the show.

While not driving, I kept grabbing Emily's Neckdown Bolero to work on. The striping is so great. She loves the pink! But the lionshare of the knitting time was spent on Aileen's Threepenny Pullover and I was able to reach the 8 1/4" mark! It is turning out so beautifully.

Another WIP goes to the Finished Bin!

2009-04-21T05:47:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to say that the first of the three Neckdown Boleros is complete. As a Nana, I am feeling the same tug my Grandma Kelly felt. She said if she did for one, she must do for all. Well, this pattern impressed me so much I had to make it for all three of my lovely granddaughters. Here it is for your viewing pleasure.

I have Bolero #2 on the needles now. I am working it in as I knit Aileen's Threepenny Pullover. I will post pictures after our roadtrip to Stitches South in Atlanta this weekend! It is a long drive so I am hoping to get some great knitting time in.

The Central Florida Fair

2009-04-19T10:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, NYGK group manned (Womanned) a demonstration table in the Creative Arts building. We had needles and yarn ready for passersby to try their hand at knitting some for the first time or as a refresher course.

Some of our members also entered some of their finished projects into the various catagories in the Adult division of the competition. Megan's socks won first place, the sweater I made my husband received a third place ribbon in the sweater division, Megan's February Lady sweater got an Honorable Mention, and I think Becky's lace shawl received an Honorable Mention as well. (And ladies, if I am incorrect, I apologize now for my bad reporting of the facts.)

Kelly was kind enough to take a picture of my first award winning sweater. Third Place is a nice place to start. Thank you Kelly!

As you can see, I was a little happy!

I want to encourage everyone to get involved in your county fairs. Our family has been at it for years. Beginning with 4-H back in the day when my husband's family participated in Saratoga County, then when our daughters were in 4-H and now with our Knitting Group. It is a great place to learn about a new craft, or to properly care for a garden in your climate all the while, meeting great people with similar interests. So make plans for next year's local fair and see how much fun it really is.

Have a wonderful day!

All that has been happening!

2009-04-16T04:30:00.001-07:00

I would never have believed you if you said that our house would have gone from viewing to sale in two weeks, but that is what is happening. On March 28th Paul and I participated in our community's garage sale. We didn't have much to sell but thought why not get rid of some things while we waited for the sale of the house.

Brenda, our neighbor from across the street, came over to chat in the lull of traffic and said that maybe we would have someone interested at the garage sale. Not more than 2 hours later this British couple comes up the drive to have a look. We begin chatting and she says that her cousin is in the market for a home and is working with our realtor, David Gallup. So I ask her if she would like to have a look. She tours the home and tells me he is also in the market for as many furnishings as possible and that he is coming to the area the following weekend. I then invited them all back on the following Sunday to preview the home the day before David is to show them properties.

Now it is a week and a day later and the cousin comes in to see the house. He is Brazilian and only speaks Portuguese so it gets interesting. I find out he is very motivated to make a cash purchase on this trip to the States and he likes the house. I tell him what furniture is available for sale and being I had the opportunity, I also told me about our plans for England and our need to rent until we leave. I know not everyone believes as I do but I believe that at that moment, God was orchestrating the best deal for both parties. Within 24 hours, they returned to the house for another look and made an offer which included the purchase of 3/4 of our furniture and the ability to rent our house from him until July 15th and all for a very fine price! All the inspections are completed and the closing is tomorrow!

This has been a whirlwind but we are ready! Paul and I are so excited but now know we are on a countdown to leave for England. Please pray on how God would like you to be a part of our team. We are about halfway in our fundraising goal and need to be at 100% by July 15th to leave.

I am going to be bold here and even ask those who are not believers/churchgoers to think about supporting us. Our work has a humanitarian side to it as well. We will be reaching out to all the people groups of Europe through the short term teams Paul will be directing and the children's ministry I will be working in. There is so much struggle in our country and across the world when a family crumbles due to divorce, alcoholism, drugs, or any other addictions. We are going to be there to help these people put their lives back together and hopefully to help the children build right relationships so there is hope for their futures. My hope is to help build self confidence so a child will stay in school and move on to a rewarding career as well as the religious training we hope to be a part of. Do you see yourself helping with this type of work? If so or if you have any questions about what I have just said, please email me at mary@going4the1.com. I would be happy to get together with you and discuss it.

Tomorrow at 3 pm is the closing! This is another HUGE step we are taking. Thank you to you all for your support not only financially but emotionally as we move closer and closer to the goal.

Have a wonderful day!

Next time I will have pictures of the Neckdown Bolero for Alison-it just needs to be blocked and two buttons and pictures from our Central Florida Fair Demo that is happening this Saturday!

Updates on my WIPs and new yarn purchase

2009-04-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

As you can see I have been cooking but also knitting! Trying to finish Ali's Neckdown Bolero and I am 80% complete. Needs to be done by Saturday so I can include it in my Fair submissions. Here's what it looks like now.

As you can see, just a little more of the right sleeve and then the left, some weaving in, and the button and we are ready.

Now there is something else I have been working on that I am very proud of. The Threepenny Pullover is coming to life.

As everyone knows I am a Nana of three beautiful little girls and so knitting seems to come in threes. I have decided that each of the girls need on of these Neckdown Boleros so off to Knit! I went and picked up the yarn for Em's Bolero. I love the color blend and can't wait to see how it stripes. Is there any Pink you ask? Well, as a matter of fact Pink is the main color from what I can see. What do you think?

On the ministry side of life, we are in full swing of raising support for our time serving with Next Level International and hoping to sell the house relatively soon. This week we have had the most activity to date. We are on the short list for two or three of the people who have toured it. Please keep this in your prayers and pray to see how you are to get involved in our ministry as well. Have no idea what I am talking about? Visit www.going4the1.com and find out. Have a wonderful Saturday!

Mary is not just a knitter....

2009-03-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

Was just sharing some recipes with some friends and thought why not introduce another love of mine and some favorite recipes of ours.
Paul and I love to cook and entertain so we have experimented and have come up with some very lovely "keepers". A favorite appetizer is my:

Italian Stuffed Mushrooms
1 lb medium mushrooms
1 small onion, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
3 cloves garlic, pressed
1/2 small green pepper, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
3 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups bread crumbs
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon basil
1 cup finely shredded mozzarella cheese
Separate stems from mushroom cap and finely chop stems; wash and set caps aside. Heat butter in skillet, when hot, add chopped stems, onions, green peppers and garlic. Saute until the onions are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add the bread crumbs, cheese and seasonings. Mix well. Melt some butter in a shallow baking pan. Fill mushroom caps with stuffing mixture, place mushrooms, filled sides up in baking dish. Bake uncovered in 350F oven 15 minutes.Set oven control to broil. Broil mushrooms with tops 3 to 4 minutes from heat 2 minutes. Serve hot.
Now that is the meatless version but from there you can do so much. Paul adds crumbled bacon into his stuffing. I have also made crab meat stuffing but you need to know your audience because of allergies. Enjoy and be creative!

And here's a new favorite from Pampered Chef's Fall/Winter Season's Best:

Microwave White Chicken Chili by Pampered Chef
3 whole heads garlic (about 48 cloves), unpeeled
3/4 t salt, divided
3 T olive oil, divided
2 poblano peppers, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs but I use chicken breasts, diced
2 T Southwestern Seasoning mix or Taco Seasoning can be substituted
2 cans (15 oz each) Great Northern beans, drained
1 jar (16 oz) salsa verde
I also chop up 1/2 c cilantro

1. Slice about 1/4 inch off the pointed top of garlic heads to expose cloves. Place garlic cut side up in microwaveable bowl. Sprinkle garlic with 1/4 t salt and drizzle with 2 Tbsp of the oil. Cover bowl with lid; microwave on HIGH 3 minutes or until garlic is soft. Set aside to cool.

2. Meanwhile, finely dice peppers. Chop onion. Combine peppers and onions in large microwavable bowl. Trim and finely dice chicken. Add chicken, seasoning mix remaining 1 Tbsp oil and remaining 1/2 t salt to bowl; mix well. Microwave, covered, on HIGH 4 minutes; stir to separate chicken. Cover; microwave an additional 4-6 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

3. Meanwhile, gently squeezed cooked garlic from heads into bowl, discard skins); mash. Add beans and salsa to bowl. Transfer bean mixture to chicken mixture; mix well. Microwave, covered on HIGH 5-7 minutes or until chili is heated through.

Yield: 8 servings (8 cups)
Serve this chili with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges, diced avocado or chopped cilantro.

Enjoy and let me know how you like these recipes. I have many more I can share with you if you are interested.

Garage Sales WOOHOO!

2009-03-28T13:36:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those weather days that made you think should I go to the effort of hauling everything in the "to be sold" pile out of their various hiding places, but Paul and I started at 6:45 am this morning to do just that. By 11:30, we were closing up shop with much less to put back in the house and even less to give to the Sharing Center next week. And we were close to $200 in sales and a promise of much more for our portable generator. Also, 3 people walked away with flyers on the house for friends and one lady's cousin who is coming from Brazil next weekend to buy a house and has cash! (I guess his economic status has not been effected too much!) :)

1:15 PM We left the house for a showing at 1:30 and the generator guy hadn't returned! Thinking the opportunity was gone, we sat at the library until the realtor called to tell us she was finished. Came home to find, the generator guy came while we were out, gave him a call and by 3:45 the generator was loaded into his truck and we got the agreed upon price. That more than doubled our take in for the day! God is so good.

We have a showing tomorrow at 1 pm. It is getting interesting as we watch how God is orchestrating events and the people we are meet!

Now back to knitting-Aileen's sweater is growing. Pictures soon! It is going to be sooo beautiful!

Something I have never tried before!

2009-03-24T05:11:00.001-07:00

Why not do something new, uh? That seems to be the theme of this part of my life. LOL Well, I have just entered 4 of my knitted creations into the Central Fair's Creative Arts competition. In the past I have helped my daughter Erin compete while she was in 4-H but never thought passed the children's competitions. With Megan's and the members of NYGK's encouragement, I have entered Paul's Shawl Collared Men's Cardigan, my Sleeveless Rolled Collared Sweater, Alison's Neckdown Bolero and the Teddy Bear Baby Blanket I just finished.

I will finish this one before entering but it is on the list and I have until April 4th to drop my items off! I am currently on the 4 inch 2 x 2 ribbed collar then all I have are the sleeves and the finish work.

Well, you will just have to come to the fair to see my last entry! I don't have a picture. Well, wish me luck!

Something I have never tried before!

2009-03-24T05:11:00.000-07:00