Conny's Creative Corner

A Fall Project

2011-10-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

This is another little over-the-shoulder bag, this time in fall colors, topped off with

a bit of fuzzy eyelash yarn and decorated with a plarn "medallion".

These bowls are a special order. I threw in a coaster to match the set.

Crochet with two strands of plarn and 1 strand of worsted weight plus one strand of variegated fuzzy yarn.....

And here is my latest bag. I'm using it to carry the projects I'm currently working on....

A Random Project

2011-10-09T18:27:00.001-07:00

I randomly selected this picture. It's a small plarn project - this one is a cover for a small speaker set - one I use with my MP3 player. The plastic bags used to be newspaper sleeves once. I added some fuzzy yarn and the "O" or oval shape is added afterwards with a piece of fancy yarn and a hook going in from the top and crocheting it on. I started it from the bottom with a short foundation row - size depends on what goes in it - and then made single crochet stitches around it to create an oval. I made no increases after the first row and it automatically comes up on the sides. Crochet until project has reached the desired height. In the last row I made some chain stitches on both sides to create a little set of handles.

A Break from Plarn

2011-09-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

I had to take a little break from all my plarn project. Here in the northwestern part of Pennsylvania where I live it is getting cool enough for an extra layer.... this is how these ponchos started. I saw a youtube video entitled "How to Knit a Stylish Poncho" by Jamie Geidt.
My yarn is different and it seems my measurements are, too, but I was able to use one 7 oz. skein from Joann's to make this simple poncho. This one is knit in one piece - a long rectangle. It's warm and cozy.

A view from the back....you could even pull it further down the back

And this one is crochet....same principle - a long rectangle, sewn together just as Jamie shows in her video. This is yarn from Joann's also. Very soft.

And this one.... well, here I started playing. Same long rectangle but knit in 3 knit, 3 purl. Then instead of sewing the piece together as in the above samples, I joined this one in the front side by side. The buttons are not functional, just decorative. I feel like I'm getting a big hug wearing this soft and comfy poncho. Almost makes me look forward to the cold weather - almost.....

Just another way to wear it..... I think it makes me look fat, though.....

... and a close up.

Next week I'm going back to plarn. A friend wants a back scrubber and I need another rug for my kitchen. But these ponchos are so much fun to make... mostly because they're quick and easy.....I'm sure before the winter is over I'll be making a few more...... I have two little granddaughters...hmmm, I see pink and sparkly ..... happy thoughts!!!!

Pet Bags

2011-09-13T17:44:00.000-07:00

I was in a store recently where I saw some cute pet carrier bags. They inspired me. So I bought the little bear and made him a plarn pet bag. It was fun to make and I think he looks pretty comfortable in it. I already have a pretty special kid in mind....shhhhhhh....don't tell.

And then I couldn't stop.....I had to make a pink bag for my "mini Tootsie." She is my stuffed pet and I'm keeping her. A friend of mine bought her for me and I added the black markings to resemble my doggie girl, Tootsie. The kid in me is very happy!

A little close-up of the medallion on the side. Pink, sparkly yarn, light pink plarn and some white fuzzy yarn for the trim. Now I'm looking for some more little stuffed animals I can make pet bags for. It's crazy but they are not that easy to find, at least where I live.

MP3 or Cell Phone Holders

2011-09-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

Here's an idea for us gadget freaks....eco-cool...quick little projects.
The first one in blue - the fuzzy yarn hides the clear plarn underneath.

Here are three more, 2 with soft white bags - one with pink yarn and one with semi-fuzzy green yarn; one with light brown plarn and a multi-colored yarn.

I like to make the string (chain stitches - 2 strands of yarn) just long enough to slip over my head, then tie it in the back so I can wear it close to my chest. That way I can listen to music without the ear phones ....I have really small ears and regular size ear buds are always too big.... Anyway, if I'm alone in the house I just as soon listen to music through the built in speakers. But I do leave a little space on the bottom for the plug to go in if I do want to use head phones.

My blue ribbon winner

2011-08-30T17:27:00.000-07:00

First time ever .... I submitted something I made to be judged at a county fair. It was fun. I was very happy to see the blue ribbon, too.

Here is a look inside the bag. Yes, it's another one of those plarn projects. I just recently showed a woman who works with underprivileged children - that's a kind way of saying "poor kids" in New York City. These people don't have money to go out and buy expensive craft supplies. I was thrilled to be able to share something with this dear lady who helps these kids, teaching them about the love of God and showing them that somebody cares. That's what it's all about for me. It's not about me showing off what I can make. I really don't need that. What is fulfilling is knowing that somebody's life has been touched....see, when I see those words on that bag, "Please recycle me" - you may think I'm crazy - but I hear somebody crying......

"Please, hear my cry....please, somebody, don't leave me on the trash heap of life. Don't throw me away....oh, is there something I can still do? Do I have value....worth? Does someone see something in me...." It's a cry for hope....with the little I have to offer, I intend to answer that cry and tell them, "YES, you have value. YES, someone cares, SOMEONE sees you and won't leave you where you are. His name is Jesus. He died to give His life so that you might live. He's given His very best to you....now you do your best. Don't give up but let His life and light shine through you and who knows, maybe some day He will pin a blue ribbon on you and say, "Well done, daughter of mine.... well done!"

Doll Accessories

2011-04-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

This is my granddaughter's doll's Easter outfit. The hat, bag and shoes are made with plarn. The dress is knitted. Wow, that was fun to make. If only I had more time to realize all the ideas that are in my head!

Little Pink Bag

2011-04-09T11:29:00.000-07:00

I have had trouble with the picture showing up....sometimes it did and then it didn't .... I have no idea why....but I'm trying it again....

A Little Bag for a Little Friend

2011-04-07T16:08:00.000-07:00

There is a lovely little girl in our church who requested a pink bag after her sister got one with green tones. She has such a sweet way of asking....how can you resist that. This little bag is made with white plastic bags and a thin fuzzy multicolored yarn. Blessings to all!

Time for another post

2011-02-22T06:03:00.000-08:00

I am working hard on writing a book on my plarn projects. I don't know what I'll call it yet, but here are a couple of new items I made. A "straw hat" .......

......and for the first time..... something to wear. I used the soft, green bags that you put the produce in along with a thin fuzzy yarn. It's light, soft and warm. The color doesn't really show up good in the pictures. The green is shimmery and very pretty. Someone asked me if you could wash it. Of course, but I will wash it by hand and lay it out to dry.

Making the projects is the fun part, writing instructions....harder than I thought.

A Cover for my Blender

2011-01-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

I made this cover yesterday for my new Vita-Mix. It will be more "off" than "on" because this is a wonderful and useful machine.

But I just thought of it and liked how the plarn combination of brown bags and tan yarn made this almost look like a basket. Yet it's soft and pliable but also firm, holding its shape for slipping it on and off easily.

The Inner Life of my Purse

2011-01-20T18:55:00.000-08:00

I am sharing today what I made for my purse - an organizer, actually two of them. One for each side...made out of Plarn, of course. I like to know where everything is in my purse and this helps me find things so much easier....

here is a view from the top without the pockets filled....

and here are the twin pocket organizers . I used clear bags plus white/gray yarn. I basically made one long pocket, kind of like the beginning part of a tote bag and then sewed portions shut to create dividers.

This one's for my grandson

2010-12-17T18:20:00.000-08:00

I can't leave the little guy out - he is 5 - and he needs his own bag, too. I wanted this one to fit a boy. My husband had the idea of making a backpack. Well, this can be carried a couple of different ways. The easiest one would be throwing it over one shoulder, I think. It's made with brown bags and a multicolored yarn. The drawstring is the same material except the yarn is a different color but it matches.

Here is another view. I attached a button so that the drawstring can be hooked onto which would allow him to carry it over his shoulders. I'm curious what he will decide to do with it.

Christmas presents for my grandaughters

2010-12-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

I finished these little purses today. They are made with plarn, of course, and fuzzy yarn. Each one has a matching yarn necklace to go with it. And there is bling...on the front and back. I hope my sweet Eve and sweet Eliza will love these. Merry Christmas to all my blog readers. God bless you in this season as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

More Bags

2010-10-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

I experimented with a different kind of bag. These are smaller, over the shoulder bags with some beadwork on them. Because of the plastic yarn they are light weight and sturdy at the same time. My plan is to make several for Christmas presents this year.

Another Plarn Bag

2010-10-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

I hope that whoever reads this blog doesn't get bored with my postings about "Plarn" bags. I have so much fun making them and they are evolving! This is my latest designer bag. I used two strands of yarn, fuzzy soft black yarn and a regular worsted weight tan yarn.

This week's project

2010-10-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

There was this chair over in our church

....and I couldn't find a slip cover for it since it seems to be an odd size...well, I just happened to find some fabric on sale...

....and just enough of it....to make one myself.

I had never done this before but I forged ahead and just started. Somehow it all came together.

This week's project....continued

2010-10-06T17:25:00.000-07:00

Here I am sewing every stitch by hand....why? Because if I had to do this on a machine I would go crazy for sure....

It was fun seeing it changed....by the way...there is brandnew carpeting under my feet.

And, finally, the finished project! Thank you, Lord. Now I have to give it over and let it go.... smile, smile

Autumn Greetings

2010-10-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

The chill of fall is in the air - at least up here in northwestern Pennsylvania! I enjoy the beautiful colors of this season. So, I want to share a simple fall craft with you today. This is a tissue cover, crochet with variegated yearn and a silk flower attached to it. It adds a bright splash of color in my house. I started at the bottom and crochet all the way to the top of the box, then doubled the stitches into the previous row to create a ruffled edge.

My first Christmas project

2010-09-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Well, it's time - overtime - for a new post! Sorry about the long absence.

I was in a store a few days ago and I thought I was hearing things. But no, it wasn't my imagination - I heard Christmas music - and it's not even October yet! But maybe subconsciously it did get me into the mood of creating something more "Christmassy" - my latest Plarnbag with a snowflake ribbon pulled through the row of holes in the bag. This was just a ribbon I had in a drawer nearby. I was thinking of making a neutral colored bag where I can change the ribbons with the seasons.

Infinity Moebius Scarves

2010-07-19T09:03:00.000-07:00

I am knitting again. This year I'm making long Moebius scarves. They are also called Infinity Scarves by some people. These long scarves wind around the neck twice and it allows you to pull up one loop over your ears when the cold wind is blowing - as it sure will again in a few more months....

I got this lovely "model" at a White Elefant Sale. It found a good use in my house.
I'm wondering what people's favorite colors are for scarves like these?

Ready, Set, Go

2010-07-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

I am going on a missions trip to India. In preparation for this trip I made a poncho out of an old airline blanket (no, I didn't steal it). Even though it's warm right now I know that when I get cold in the airplane or in the airport I will need something warm to wrap around me. To me, that's how God's love is. His warmth and compassion wraps around me like a warm and cozy blanket, keeping me safe, comforted and protected.

I also made a water bottle holder. It wasn't until I had started making it that I realized that the yarn I was using had the same color scheme as the trim around the blanket. How cool!

God has given us refreshing water to drink and it's important to have it flowing at all times. We need to be hydrated physically as well as spiritually. May His living water flow for you abundantly today. Blessings!!

I'll be away from the blogger sphere for a couple of weeks. So, see you when I get back...stay safe and God bless you!

A Plarn Tote

2010-06-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

I am waiting for the day when I can load my pictures wirelessly onto my computer. It's coming! I just don't have the equipment for it yet but I noticed a trend toward that. Anyway, I've been busy while away - making another tote bag out of plarn. They are all the same brown grocery bags, along with a skein of varigated yarn.

Confession: I struggle a bit with my blog right now. I love sharing my crafty ideas but feel like it's very self centered. There are tons of other things I could write about but nothing feels right. I don't share these ideas to show off! I just want to pass it on. Maybe there are some people out there who love to make things but don't have tons of money to buy supplies....I would love to know that this is a place where they can find ideas they can realize. I love making things out of stuff that usually gets thrown away....maybe because I am one of those people who would have gotten thrown away - broken and bent as I was - but Jesus rescued me and redeemed me. He saw potential. He went to work and somehow that is always there when I make something out of "junk."
Maybe I need to approach it differently. I would appreciate ideas and input. Feeling pretty discouraged right now.

Do you cry at weddings?

2010-06-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

I have neglected my blog lately...been working for the census, but that's over now. Today we had a wedding at our church
and this was my small contribution. I covered a tissue box with white gift wrap, painted on hearts (their theme and colors) with silver glitter glue. The rose petals - hot glued around the top made it look like it fit right in with the wedding party. So for those who cry ... cry in style -:))

Another Plarn Project

2010-05-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

My crafty "offering" today is this very small bowl to hold small items. I used grey bags, cut into strips and a nice shiny grey-silvery yarn together.

From another angle.....

....and this shows how small it is. I plan to take this on my next trip so that wherever I stay I'll have my own little place for my watch and all these small items we wear or carry on us....have a blessed day!

The Easiest Earring Keeper Ever

2010-04-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

I found this pen and pencil holder in the office supply section of the place "where America shops." I think it was around $ 2.00. I turned it upside down and hung my earrings on it. (To take a clear picture I put it on my sheepskin). Where it sits on my dresser I have a smaller glass cup on the inside that contains some pendants. If black isn't your color, it would be easy to spray paint it or do something with the top. Any ideas?

Decorations

2010-04-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

We have a Mother-Daughter Banquet at our church next week. I spent a good part of the day making these "favors." One of our ladies had boxes of these candle jars and I thought it would be nice to dress them up a bit. During our planning, the theme "flowers" just emerged. And the devotion I will be sharing is going to be along the line of "bloom where you are planted."

I just love my old hot glue gun. It's been a faithful crafty friend for many years. For jobs like this, nothing beats a glue gun.

This is a little sampling of the many jars ....

... and another view point.
My grand daughter turned 7 today. I'm thinking of all the important women in my life. Just like flowers, each one is different and unique.
Blessings to all!

Good Night

2010-04-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

With a painted cookie I wish all my friends a good night. Sleep well and have sweet dreams. Remember, someone is watching over you -- and it's not the man in the moon -:))) Love and Blessings

I Saw You

2010-04-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

I want to share one of my creative writing pieces today. This came to me for someone specific but I am sensing that the Lord wants to say this to someone else, too. If you feel touched reading this, then it's for you!!! Receive it with all the love God has for you....

I Saw You

(by Conny Hubbard)

I saw you before others could see,

Yet unknown to them but known to me

When in your mother's womb I formed your every part.

I looked upon you as My work of art.

And I loved you....

I saw you in your struggles and your pain,

When all seemed lost and nothing gained.

I was there and held you tight.

I was the comfort in the darkest night.

And I loved you....

I saw you when you became My blood-bought bride.

I knew I'd found a heart that would stay by My side.

I saw you follow, learn and grow,

And, oh My love, I loved you so...

I see you now - strong and wise beyond your years.

There's a light in your eyes where once there were tears.

I see you now and what do I find?

A woman after My own heart and mind!

And I love you. I love you. I love you!!!!

Recoveries

2010-04-12T16:26:00.000-07:00

I had an amazing "recovery" experience. I went swimming with a friend - as her guest - at the "Y". We'd already done laps for a good while, sat in the whirl pool and swam laps again....when I suddenly felt something inside my bathing suit - around my belly - and realized that something was beads. Tiny beads. I looked down and noticed my silver necklace, a birthday present from my husband, was dangling loosely around my neck, with the beads missing and, most of all, the silver pendant missing! The pendant is about the size of a dime. It spells the word "Love" on both sides, one in English, the other in Hebrew. I stood there in this big pool, wondering if there was just a tiny bit of a chance....then my friend mentioned to a couple of people what had happened, and then there were two little girls diving to look for it and after a while a young man found the pendant in the whirlpool. How he did that I have no idea. It's a whirlpool! I think it was a miracle. (The teabag is there to show the size). You cannot imagine how blessed I felt to have that special gift recovered. I feel like the woman in the Bible who had lost her coin and when she found it she wanted her friends to rejoice with her.

On to a different sort of "recovery...." When I was out and about the other day, a gift wrap tissue caught my eye and I immediately knew what I wanted to do with it. My 'very sophisticated' toilet bowl holder needed a recovery. It had been painted in plain burgundy - and before that, when my bathroom was blue.... o well. I decided to start from scratch, wash all the layers of old paint off and begin anew. I base-coated the jug with wall paint, painted the bottom and top with burnt umber and decopaged the gift wrap in the middle.....

...and this is the end result which now fits very nicely in my bathroom....(I will paint the handle of the brush, too). Is that too much? Just to let you know.... I really can afford to buy a set from Wal-mart but I have so much fun using stuff that would get thrown away and re-making it into something you would actually be proud of having. I just thank my God that He, too, did not leave me on the trash heap of my brokenness, but saw something He could make, picked me up and washed off all the old stuff and "recovered" me. Hallelujah!

Recession Rugs

2010-04-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

That's what I call these Plarn rugs! Because they are CHEAP! Not cheap as in worthless or not durable or will-fall-apart-easily, just very inexpensive to make. Brown plastic bags and inexpensive yarn, 2 strands, light brown and dark brown. Crochet in rows back and forth and bordered with brown yarn.

Here's a close-up

And here are my lovely summer toes...haha. They need serious help after being in hiding all through the winter. Blessings to all!

Easter Greetings

2010-04-03T10:45:00.000-07:00

These are my Easter blessings to you. This is a simple bag decorated with a designer napkin - attached to the bag with water based varnish and touched up with a bit of glitter paint around the picture....

and here is a quick and fun craft for kids. You dip your fingers, one at a time, starting with the thumb into yellow paint, make a nice print with each finger. Let it dry and draw a little beak, eyes and legs on each 'chickie'. A little dabbing of green and it's done! Happy Easter to all. Hallelujah, He is Risen. Jesus lives!!!

Tootsie

2010-03-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

I have neglected my blog lately, but not my blogging friends. I've been there right with you, I just wasn't getting into the flow myself. So, today I will do another post on Tootsie.
There are days when I am sooo grateful for my little doggie girl. She loves me unconditionally. It doesn't matter what day I have, she is always there, ready to jump into my lap. She loves to go wherever I go and she greets me joyfully whether I was gone all day or only 15 minutes. Now, if I've been gone a few days....she really gets excited! People can disappoint you and let you down, but this doggie can't do any of that. She is pure joy. And I thank God that He brought her into my life!!! Do you have a special pet in your life? Tell me about her/him!

A Baby Blanket

2010-03-12T08:07:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine came to visit recently and she brought some yarn with her and asked me if I would knit a baby blanket. She didn't have anyone special in mind yet but said that the Lord would show us who it was to be for. It took me a while to decide on what pattern to use with this yarn. It's a bit knobby (I think that's the right word) and some of the patterns I would have liked to use just didn't work for this. So I went with a simple checker pattern that shows up the same on both sides. There was enough yarn left to make a little hat. Anyway, I was half- way through this project when my friend called me and told me that a precious young couple we met this past summer just found out they were expecting their first baby! So they are the ones. This was such fun and soon it will go in the mail and travel to Germany.

Where I Live

2010-02-27T14:14:00.000-08:00

My computer is being worked on - I'm not the only one getting older! So I got on my husband's laptop and pulled out an older picture - right now it's pretty white around here - that shows where I live. On the right side is the church and on the left our house (attached to the church), surrounded by fields, creeks, rivers and woods. We're about 2 miles from Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania. Anyway, this is what it will look like in a few more months. Blessings to all my cyberfriends!

Surprise!!!

2010-02-19T15:16:00.000-08:00

I put this in the mail today to someone I love dearly....won't tell who....you'll find out when the package arrives at your doorstep.... smile, smile

The Necklace Keeper

2010-02-15T12:45:00.000-08:00

If I have my jewelry stored in a way where I can look at it, I am more likely to wear it than if it's in a box somewhere. I tend to forget about what I have...anyway, here's a simply idea. A pretty cloth covered hanger, some crochet flowers with buttons (or you could use silk flowers etc. ) attached to the hanger.... and there you have it.....it even looks decorative on the wall.

The Earring Keeper

2010-02-07T12:19:00.000-08:00

This is an older project - and one I posted in the past but it is something I'd like to share again. I use this every single day. I love wearing and making earrings. And I needed a clever way of storing them so that they would all be accessible to me. You know how it is, if you don't see it you forget about it....
anyway, the idea came to me to take a round container, dress it up and make it into an earring keeper. Many pairs of earrings fit on this crochet-covered metal container so that it's easy to look for just the right pair to wear.

And to make the inside space useful, I rolled up a piece of velvety fabric and that is where I store my bracelets. (I have a whole lot less bracelets than earrings.) Now, just some practical instructions - first I hot glued some fabric onto the container. Then I took some crochet mesh I made (if you don't crochet get an old doilie, cut it up, make it fit your container) and hot glued it on. I covered the lid as well, trimmed it with a bit of pearl and it became a holding place for some of my pins. This was really a lot of fun to make and it is so useful.

The Finished Project

2010-01-30T07:38:00.000-08:00

I have a new seat cover! It added more padding and a new look.

From the top...

...and front. This is really easy, done in a couple of days. Great beginner project. Who wants to try?

Crochet Day

2010-01-28T15:39:00.000-08:00

Today was a blustery cold and snowy day in northwestern Pennsylvania. Although we ventured out to a shopping trip the rest of afternoon was spent inside. And I gathered some supplies (plastic yarn made from shopping bags and various left over yarn) and made another seat cover. The completed project will show up in a day or two. So... please stay tuned.

A New Idea

2010-01-24T14:23:00.000-08:00

For the last 2 winters I have had cold knees. Strange, I know. I can be warm all over but my knees will feel cold,
especially in the car or even sitting at home in my living room. I've been thinking of making a lap blanket,
a small one that I can take with me. At night I got the idea of putting pockets on it to warm my hands at the same time.

The yarn for this little lap blanket came from the thrift shop in the form of two separate scarves. I loved the colors and thought they would go really good together. I had just enough yarn but it is exactle the size I wanted.

The pockets serve a double function. They are hand warmers but they also form a double layer over the knees for extra warmth.

I can think of many elderly people who would be really blessed by a little blanket like this. Maybe you can think of one right now?!
Please feel free to take my idea and make one.

Morning Mood

2010-01-21T10:11:00.001-08:00

A few days ago I woke up to this view. It was really beautiful.
The fog made it so different. ...So.... this is taken with my new camera.

Red, White and Blue

2010-01-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I introduced to the ladies in our church the "Prayer Shawl," a shawl knitted by someone for someone to show them God's love. One dear woman in our church started knitting and never stopped - not until her untimely death this past summer. She had made and given away so many prayer shawls that she had lost count. Her 14 year old grandson cried in my arms at the funeral. We talked about prayer shawls and he mentioned he would have liked one. When I told him I would make one for him, he immediately asked if it could be red, white and blue. This is the result. The boy is very patriotic and loves his country. Since he lives with his dad now I haven't seen him in a while. But don't you know I look forward to seeing his face when I give him this shawl! While grandma was alive this prayer shawl thing didn't mean much to this kid. But when she was gone he realized what a blessing this ministry of hers had been and how much it meant to him.
P. S. For the knitters among you - the yarn is Lion Brand Homespun

My Camera Bag

2010-01-06T07:38:00.000-08:00

Inspiration struck yesterday. I needed a bag for my new camera. Knowing that I would have to order something that fits and not wanting to wait I went to work. I had no plan.... just enthusiasm. The first thing I did was to crochet an inner liner basket out of plarn (plastic yarn). It's soft and cushiony and also sturdy. While crocheting, the idea came to take a felted purse I made a couple of years ago and never really liked and cut it up, re-using the felt (made from a gray wool sweater from the thrift store). I cut the felt in pieces and sewed them together. The felted flower was on the original bag, too. So I simply transferred it. For a bit of whimsy I crochet some yarn and trimmed the edges. The strap was more of an afterthought. Here I was happily making my bag when I thought, oops what am I going to use for a handle? Well, the camera came with a shoulder strap but I didn't want to use it as that. So... I cut it up and made a handle for my bag.

For this last picture I had to resort to my old camera so you can see how the Lumix is nesting in the bag.
While I was working I was thinking about how much I enjoyed watching something "grow" in my hands. I had no idea what the outcome would be when I started. That's my favorite way to create. Just watching what happens. No, it doesn't always turn out but then at least I learned something from it. When the outcome is pretty and useful it brings me joy. Thank you for allowing me to share this joy with you. That's the way the Lord works in me. I believe he is right there with me, nudging me and delighting with me in the things that develop. I always want to give Him the glory!!!

January

2010-01-03T16:26:00.000-08:00

Brussel Sprout Stalks in Winter

I just got my new camera - yeah! After searching and searching I decided on a Panasonic Lumix FZ35.
This picture is one of my first. I zoomed in quite a distance. There is lots to learn. This is not a hot pro camera .....but .....the pictures are a lot clearer than the simple point and shoot Kodak could deliver.
It is really, really cold in my neck of the woods. Brrrrrrrrrrrr. The icy wind is howling around the house and whipping the snow into piles here and there.
New Year's Blessings to everyone!!!

Tootsie

2009-12-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

This blog started out as a dog's blog and for a while I blogged as "Tootsie" - my dog. While I changed my blog I decided Tootsie needs to make a guest appearance now and then. There she is.....wearing her Christmas sweater I made her. Tootsie had a wonderful Christmas. She got some new toys and special treats. Tootsie is the best dog anyone could have. She doesn't shed, is really smart and follows me everywhere I go. When I say, "Give me a Tootsie Roll," she throws herself on the ground and does a quick roll-over. When I tell her to sing, she turns her little nose up in the air and howls in a high pitched sound. I carry pictures around of her and call her my little girl.

In the Mood for Christmas

2009-12-15T15:49:00.000-08:00

My first Christmas post this year - I'm sharing my candle cookie. The only thing I baked for these is the star cookie. The "candle" part is a wafer with some melted chocolate. The "flame" an almond - sans skin - and the whole thing is "glued" together with a bit of almond paste, or marzipan. This cookie reminds me of a song by Chris Rice - it was popular a few years ago but the message is still the same:

There is a candle in every soul,
Some brightly burning, some dark and cold
There is a spirit who brings fire
Ignites a candle and makes his home

Chorus:
Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, and go light your world
Take your candle, and go light your world

Frustrated brother, see how he's tried to
Light his own candle some other way
See now your sister, she's been robbed and lied to
Still holds a candle without a flame

We are a family whose hearts are blazing
So let's raise our candles and light up the sky
Praying to our Father in the name of Jesus
Make us a beacon in darkest times

The marvelous miraculous Moebius

2009-12-08T11:41:00.000-08:00

This Moebius scarf is my newest creation. I went to a craft store and wore one, got to talking with the owner and she asked me to make one for her. This one will go to her. I just decided to "model" it and show you what a wonderful thing this twisted scarf is. It is so versatile.....and always in style...

...change it into a hoodie ..... goodie, goodie

....or into a hat... how fun is that! (and if I keep going, I will turn into Dr. Seuss)

A Santa Claus turned up today

2009-12-01T16:00:00.000-08:00

I had already started my little project today when I thought I'd stop and take a picture so I could blog this today. I found a shriveled up little pumpkin on my window sill and somehow I could see a Santa in it. ....

With a little bit of imagination....or maybe a lot of imagination and a little paint, there he was! Now the shriveled up pumpkin can stay on my window sill and do double duty for the Christmas season. Funny, how some pumpkins rot and turn to mush and some dry up and get all dry and hollow inside. Anyway, the Christmas season has begun. I've decorated my house and this was my first Christmas project this year.
JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

Another tissue box cover

2009-11-18T17:02:00.000-08:00

This is one of those plastic covers you put over a tissue box. I painted it first and then took to top layer of a designer napkin, cut out the designs, layed them on the box and brushed over them with clear waterbased varnish; then a little sponging and speckling to finish it off. One napkin - enough to cover all four sides. Extremely economical. What do you think?

Tissue Box Cover

2009-11-16T17:57:00.000-08:00

I have tissue boxes all over my house. Don't know why. I guess I just like to have them handy. And, as you can tell, I like to decorate the boxes, too. In the next few blogs I will introduce these fun and easy craft ideas. Feel free to copy them and try your own. For this one I ironed that stuff on the back of the fabric that makes it stiff - can't think of what to call it right now - and then sewed the sides together. The top is crochet on. To get that wavy effect you do two double crochet in each previous stitch for three rounds.

Nature's Gifts

2009-11-13T12:13:00.000-08:00

This fall leaf will never die! It serves me faithfully as an eye glass holder. I made it last year out of oven baked clay. Very easy project, even for kids. Roll out the clay, take a nice leaf and lay it on the clay. Roll over it carefully and let the leaf leave an imprint on the clay. Take off the real leaf. Carefull cut the clay around the leaf. Smooth out the edges and curl the sides up a bit. Then follow the directions for the clay and bake. You can paint the finished project or, as I did, simply varnish it.

Just finished!

2009-11-06T07:56:00.000-08:00

The first picture shows the tile sample a friend gave us. My husband cut wood boards to make a border. I stained them and we put it together this morning. Our old butcher block table - which is really an old, discarded work bench we got from the carpenter's shop on a base in Sicily - got a make-over.

I still need to paint the rest of the table to match the lighter color in the tile. Maybe some time this week....

Easy Aprons

2009-11-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

This half apron is made out of a kitchen towel. It's not cut but folded in half so that it is reversible.
A great quick gift for your friends who like to bake.

I crochet the band on top and then sewed it onto the towel. I just like that finished look better.
Wearing this is like always having a towel handy to wipe your hands off.

Modeling my Moebius

2009-10-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

Last year, while my husband was on a missions trip I learned to knit the Moebius Scarf - from a YouTube video of all places. Cat Bordhi - Intro into Moebius Knitting It took me a week to "get it" and after that I was on a roll and made several for myself in different colors and many for my friends. The Moebius (named after a German mathematician) is knit in the round and has a half twist which gives it such a nice form around the neck. These scarves are just wonderful - you can pull them up over your head for that short trip from the car to the store etc. when the icy wind is blowing - which isn't too far off where I live. I will not leave my house without one around my neck!

This pumpkin tastes like cardboard

2009-10-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here is another one of my Harvest Collection pieces made out of cardboard. The middle piece is cut separately and hot glued onto the main piece. Leaves are attached with wire. I use an old serrated knife and leave the edges rough. You could sand them smooth but I like that "rough hewn" look. Cardboard is great to practice tole painting on. If it turns out yucky you can just pitch it.

Thanksgiving

2009-10-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

I personally ignore Halloween completely. But I enjoy Thanksgiving, not just because it gives us an excuse to eat too much, but because we do have so much to be thankful for. My husband and I just spent a few days at a retreat center, being refreshed in the Lord. I am sharing one of my cardboard creations with you today. I made this pilgrim a couple of years ago but he comes out every Thanksgiving - he has a wife, by the way - and I hang up the pair on the wall to remind us of our Christian heritage and why the pilgrims came to this country.
For those of you who might want to try this kind of craft - it's cheap and easy. Get some strong cardboard - the best is the kind refrigerators or other heavy appliances come in, trace your shapes on it, cut it with a serrated knife, paint and assemble the pieces with wire. In this case, the arms are cut out separately and then attached, the pumpkin is also another piece of painted cardboard and hotglued onto the body. The legs are attached with wire. My pilgrim is pretty large but because it's cardboard all it takes is a regular nail to hang it on the wall.

A Tissue Box Cover

2009-10-20T14:49:00.000-07:00

Even though tissue boxes come in different colors and decor, I still like to decorate them myself. This one goes with the season. HAPPY FALL!!

2009-10-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Another pair

2009-10-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

I said that I would make more house slippers. This is my second pair. I used fun fur yarn along with white plastic bag strips. I trimmed the yarn on the outside of the shoes. They looked a bit too "furry" for me, but I left it on the inside. It helps to make them very soft on the inside. I'm having fun!!

Mandy

2009-10-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

This is Mandy, our 17 year old daughter. She was our foster daughter for a year. In July this year we became her legal guardians. She is 17 and has two more years of high school left. She takes Culinary Arts in Vo-tech in the afternoons. Mandy is a typical teenager whose life revolves around "me, me, me" alot, and that takes grace. She has so many good qualities and we are blessed for having her in our lives. We trust the Lord that for the time we have input into her life that He would bless this time. This is the best creative work in many ways. Listening, being there, affirming, blessing, correcting (gently!) and loving. Letting God make her life into what He wants it to be. It's challenging, stretching, sometimes frustrating, never dull, but always so worth it.

What to do with a couple of Walmart bags and leftover yarn?

2009-09-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

I made these house shoes today.
They are so soft, comfy and warm.

Because my camera isn't the greatest,
the colors look a bit washed out in the
pictures. And I am just now using some
left-over yarn to practice before I get
the colors I really want. These were
an experiment that I will repeat again!

A dish cloth

2009-09-15T18:22:00.000-07:00

This dish cloth is made from 3 Walmart bags, cut into strips, looped together and crochet.

(20 stitches across and as many rows as it takes to make a square, then crochet once all around to give it a finished edge.) After making the first dish cloth, I made another one for my shower. After all, those bath scrunchies are made of plastic, too. The only draw back is that you can't use it to wipe things dry but for that I use another cloth.

Name Change

2009-09-12T16:42:00.000-07:00

When I started this blog I couldn't think of a snappy title but today inspirations struck and the three "Cs" just "clicked". And then I thought about a picture and decided to post a picture that shows where I live. The left side of the building is the parsonage where my husband, our adopted daughter, Tootsie and I live. The right side is our church. And, as you can see, I am not kidding when I see we live in the country....so, with that...country blessings to you.
I believe that one of the most creative things a person can do is PRAY - joining together with the CREATOR to create new circumstances or new attitudes and new life. That is happening here, too. It's a little harder to put into words and most definitely harder to capture in pictures but it's just as real, or should I say more real, than the things we can see and touch. But for me the spiritual and natural realm are closely woven together and what I create comes out of the abundance of life the Lord gives me.

Tootsie

2009-09-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

Since this blog was originally a "dogsblog" with Tootsie as the blogger, I have to include her now and then.
This shot was taken on the way home from a trip. I had two sleepy girls in the back seat.

Recycled Shoes

2009-09-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

Slippers for my grandson made out of plastic shopping bags and yarn.

A stuffed seat cushion

2009-09-06T14:02:00.000-07:00

This seat cushion is made out of brown plastic shopping bags, along with a brown yarn and a silvery colored eyelash yarn. I ran out of the silver yarn and switched to a brown eyelash yarn but I like the contrast. I stuffed it with pillow stuffing and it's soooo soft and comfortable. Letting nothing go to waste is my motto.

My finished rug

2009-09-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

I've been working on this one for a while now. This rug is made out of two kinds of brown plastic shopping bags, plus black and gold yarn. It's 33 inches wide and 50 inches long. Adding the yarn to the plastic makes it more pliable when crocheting and adds texture.

I'm not off my candle kick yet....

2009-09-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

Here is yet another candle. I wish I'd taken the "before" picture. It was just plain cream color.

My next idea is to make an "anniversary" candle with the couple's names on it. What do you think?

A tangled mess

2009-08-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

These are plastic bags cut up into strips and looped together to make one looooong string.

Some people call that "PLARN" = plastic yarn.

Plastic bag made from plastic bags

2009-08-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

This is what can happen with that tangled mess. Kinda what God did in my life after I gave it to Him. He took the mess of my life and straightened it out (still working on that part -:)))) and made something useful out of it.

More random candles

2009-08-27T19:04:00.000-07:00

I found a couple more unused candles in a drawer today. I wanted to try something different with the beige one. And I thought I'd try to write something on the red one. Well, I was pretty pleased with the result.

Here's the result

2009-08-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

I used a serrated knife to make a random pattern in the beige candle, spray painted it silver and let it dry. Then I used a black glaze to paint it and rubbed the excess paint off gently. I set a tea light on the inside. And to finish it off, I set the candle on a spray painted glass dish.

It's a make-over!

2009-08-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

I just love taking old, beat up, or cast away stuff and making it fresh and new. Thank God, that's exactly what He does with us! Sometimes it's not fun when we get "worked on" but the results are always good when we've been in the hands of the Master.

From this....

2009-08-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

This old candle really didn't do anything for me but take up space. Hmmm, before I throw you out...maybe I can make a few changes

... to this

2009-08-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

Amazing what a little paint can do. I used an old pen to etch the scroll pattern into the wax, painted it with a metallic silver, let it dry and then used a black glaze (black paint mixed with a little glaze) to finish it. I spray painted the plate. Okay, I think I'll keep it.

Learning to crochet

2009-08-19T18:32:00.000-07:00

I was teaching a little girl from church to crochet today. She caught on really fast and made chain stitches in no time at all

I had some photo fun yesterday. With photofunia you can take any picture and use different effects.

2009-08-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

And here is Bob ....

2009-08-19T17:27:00.000-07:00

and there is one of Mandy

2009-08-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

and another one of me....

2009-08-19T17:21:00.000-07:00

I had some fun yesterday taking pictures of me and family members, using photofunia.com to use some fun effects. Here are some of my results.

Me and Tootsie

2009-07-11T07:28:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken at a small town 4th of July parade. We sat on the curb watching the parade. This is Tootsie, my little girl...she is almost 5 years old. This blog was originally dedicated to her but I'm taking it away from her to include my interests as well

My new stylish bed

2009-04-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well, my human decided that I needed a new cover for my bed and so she went to work and recovered my bed. I must say, I like it, it fits my personality and obviously my fur as well. What do you think? Stripes are in! Black and White is COOL.

Tootsie in Christmas red

2008-12-16T14:54:00.000-08:00

Here I am again! It's almost Christmas and my humans have gotten into the mood. They even decorated me. I got my rabies shot the other day. Now I'm good for another three years. Boy, was I glad when that was over.
Merry Christmas you all!

Talking Dog

2008-04-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

Pretty in Pink

2008-04-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some new pictures of me. I am happy and excited because spring is here and I'll be able to run outside again, lay on the deck and enjoy the sunshine. Well, it's not quite warm enough for that but it will be soon. In the meantime, I love that place on the back of the chair where I sit and wait for my humans when they are out.

My human's idea of fun

2008-02-25T08:13:00.000-08:00

What am I? A dog or a lion? Or maybe part dog, part lion? Well, my humans had some fun dressing me up. I complied and acted like I was a sleeping lion... grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

After my bath

2008-02-19T07:04:00.000-08:00

This is my after-the-bath dance that I do. Keeps me in shape...

I got a bath!

2008-02-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

This is me, all wet! I had to get a bath. I was told I was a "stinky poo."
Now I know better than to fight it. The humans always win. So I endure it. Don't like it much but I do feel so much better after it's all over. The best part is - I get some peanut butter for a treat. I can always count on that. It makes going through it worth it. Ahhh, the reward at the end!

A Toy Tootsie

2008-02-01T16:22:00.000-08:00

This is a little look-a-like of me. If I could have a baby it could possibly look like this!

Keeping Company

2008-01-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

Obviously, my human isn't feeling so well in this picture. But I am doing my best to keep her company. She likes me near her. And I like to hang out with her.

Tootsie singing

2008-01-03T11:29:00.000-08:00

My Christmas Sweater

2007-12-30T13:08:00.000-08:00

My mom made this sweater for me for Christmas to keep me warm when I go outside into the cold. There was snow on the ground - lots of snow - but it's all melted away, at least for now. There will be more....living in the northeast you can be sure of that!

Car Travel

2007-11-04T17:26:00.000-08:00

We went on a 10 hour trip to Vermont last week to watch my humans' grandkids. I like riding in the car, though. I enjoy the view and when I get tired of that I sit in my mom's lap. They like having me with them. I hear them talking about what good company I am for them. I will share more about our visit later. That's all for now.

Are you coming back?

2007-10-23T16:12:00.000-07:00

Here I am in my humans car. I am always excited to be with them and to see them. This time we both had to wait for her. She came back from the store and I was ready to greet her. That's my job.

A Walk in the Park

2007-09-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

This is me going for a walk in the park. The little girl who held my leash came to stay with my humans for a few days. I tell you, for some humans life is not exactly a walk in the park. This little girl had been through a lot in her young life. My humans sometimes tell others that I am a therapy dog - I am pretty sure it means something good, whatever it means - I am happy if I can make a human smile. And I think I was able to do just that. This little girl laughed and giggled when she played with me. It's really pretty easy to make a human feel loved. You just get really excited when you see them, greet them with a lot of enthusiasm and wiggle all over. Then you show them that you are willing to play with them and when they are tired you sit in their lap or at least really close to them and just be there with them. They get the idea.

Nap Time

2007-09-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

Naps are a wonderful invention. This is how I recharge. With my toy basket right next to me, I am in doggie heaven.

Just chillin'

2007-09-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

This summer I got to sit outside on the deck quite a bit. I enjoy the warm sun shining on my fur. I think humans should get some hints from us dogs now and then and enjoy the moment. They run around like crazy sometimes and get so busy. "Just chill" I say, and rest a while.

My baby picture

2007-09-15T14:29:00.000-07:00

Even dogs get sentimental now and then. My humans have kept my baby pictures and I would like to share one with you today. I was pretty small even for my breed. They called me the 'runt.' Ha! I can run with the best of them now.

Birthday Toys

2007-09-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

I turned 3 just last week and a human friend sent me some wonderful toys that are just my size. And they all squeak!I had to try them all out right away. One of them was a little plastic shoe with a shoe string.Yummy! Smart as I am I untied the shoe in no time at all. The other toy is a little purse. Soooo cute. I love birthdays.