Dusty's Doings

Ragged Old Flag-Johnny Cash

2010-07-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Diamond Rio: In God We Still Trust

2010-06-13T05:17:00.000-07:00

One Heartbeat At A Time ~ SC Chapman

2010-05-21T04:11:00.000-07:00

Before The Morning - Josh Wilson - Worship Video w-lyrics

2010-05-21T03:35:00.000-07:00

Because You Loved Me - Passion of Christ

2010-03-06T06:59:00.001-08:00

Grace Like Rain - Todd Agnew

2010-03-06T06:58:00.001-08:00

Thank you God for your grace to me.

Mary Did You Know

2010-03-06T06:52:00.001-08:00

Dishcloths To Be Gifted

2010-02-21T04:35:00.000-08:00

A friend at church wanted me to knit her up some dishcloths.

They turn out really nice. I made some wrappers for them, I think

they make a nice presentation. I just got Michelle's market tote done

need to tuck in my ends and then I will post a picture.

Hugs, Dusty

Paper Chain Dolls What Fun

2010-02-15T06:48:00.000-08:00

Awhile back a friend was over and made Makaila a paper chain doll. So I got my surfing boots on and surfed the net for instructions on how to make them. In the process I found a paper chain for, Fancy Nancy Dolls chains. There are these books about Fancy Nancy, Fancy Nancy loves to be well, um, Be Fancy. So for Valentine's Day I happened to find one of these books and it was entitled, Fancy Nancy, loves, loves, loves. Perfect! So we read the story and then made our chain. She had allot of fun decorating them. Well, then Grandpa comes upstairs with this big table covering paper and folds in and Makaila makes a huge chain of paper dolls. And of course Grandpa had to to the twisted snake paper chain. Nice activity. Hugs, Dusty

Pom-pom Maker

2010-02-11T07:55:00.001-08:00

Nice way to make pom poms.

More knitting and the boys

2010-02-08T08:21:00.000-08:00

Thought I would try an experiment with the boys. So I put this friendly looking toy in their play pool. Yikes at first they both ran into the tube and just stayed there making chucking noises which is not good at all. So I remove the scary item and waited an hour and put it back in. This time they got curious about this new creature among them. Timothy put his cheek next to his new friend and stood real still. Little Bit give it a kiss (ok he really was trying to bit his tongue off). They figured it was a safe friend cause it just sat there and did not even try to move around. It was fun to watch.

Another knitting adventure for me. Making some soap sacks. This is the frist one. I need to put a hanger on it so it can be hung up on the shower rack intween uses. There seems to be lots of people who enjoy using these. I got the pattern on Raverly. If you are not familar with Raverly it is awesome. It is a knit and crochet community. Lots of free patterns, tips and information.

Leona Lewis - Footprints In The Sand

2010-02-08T03:55:00.001-08:00

Very powerful.

Double Knitting

2010-02-04T15:06:00.001-08:00

Double Knitting II

2010-02-04T07:40:00.001-08:00

Reminder for me...

What I Been Up To

2010-02-03T05:50:00.001-08:00

The guinea pigs are now about 8 months old and thriving. Here are some pics in their freshly cleaned cage. Timothy (golden one) goes right for the hay. Little Bit goes for the treat bites, he has my heart he always seeks out dessert. He seems to like it under his loft he drags everything under their to check it out. I am hoping by fall to get them a bit bigger cage with a loft at the other end as well. They keep me entertained.

I finished this shawlette for a friend of mine. It is done in blues with some sparkle yarn. It is pretty when the light hits the little bits of glimmer.

I have a dragon scales scarf I need to finish up next. It is about 3/4 of the way done.

Then I have my eye on a felted bag for me. I am really enjoying my knitting and I am amazed at how much I am getting done.

Have a great day and catch you all later...Hugs, Dusty

2010-01-22T10:14:00.000-08:00

Wow that is one monster pom, pom. When I saw this pattern I just had to do something funky. I have just the person to give it to at church....she will love it. UM...I hope ....

The boys are about 7 months old now and thriving. Timothy the golden boy is very friendly. He love the chin and face massages. He runs right up to the front of his play area for food and petting. Little Bit the rascal, he is more carful, he stretches his body to reach the food treat, heaven forbid I might pet him. He is the complainor. We are working on this. He is endearing in his own way. Hugs, Dusty

Makaila's Snowboard Hat

2010-01-17T12:01:00.000-08:00

Silly fun at Granny house this weekend. Makaila and I went to Joann's and she picked out some yarn for her snowboard hat. It just fit. She was tickled, see the smile, all that effort into the hat for such a nice reward in a smile. Doesn't get much better than that. Going to be making another one with chunky yarn and larger needles for a better fit. She really is into pompoms. Later, Dusty

Snowy Day Hat

2010-01-14T10:32:00.001-08:00

Another hat done! This is a snowy day hat made for a friend of mine. It was easy and turned out rather nicely. Ok now I got to get that scarf done. Keeping on track with my projects. Hugs, Dusty

So Far So Good

2010-01-09T18:26:00.000-08:00

So far so good right on track with my knitting, but more important is that I am actually finishing up each project!! These two pair will be delivered to my friend, Lou. She saw the pair I made last week for another lady and really wanted some for herself. Add then added she wanted another pair for her friend. These are a fairly quick knit, each pair take about 6 hours to complete. My daughter wanted to sneak off with the multi-color pair, but I said sorry they are promised to someone else. She did get a pair for Christmas.
Her birthday is coming up soon so perhaps I will make her another pair.

Well I have a scarf called Dragon Scales that has been hibernating for about 1 yr. Time to get that one finished up only a bit more to go on it. It is very pretty so my goal is to get it done by next Sunday. Stay tuned to upcoming pics of that one. Hugs, Dusty

Becky Kelley - Where's the Line to See Jesus?

2010-01-08T05:03:00.001-08:00

Awesome , just got this after Christmas, powerful!

Smitten With Mittens

2010-01-07T05:42:00.000-08:00

I am still busy making mittens. I took this pair as a gift to a friend at church and she loved them. Well, another friend liked them as well and begged to try them on. She had a smile from ear to ear and eyes all lit up. I asked her if she really liked them she said are you kidding me (good for my ego here lol). I then asked would you like a pair also, she said yes very quickly lol, and also a pair for her friend. So I have been working on them this week and I will post a picture of them soon. I really like this pattern, it is so easy and fun. There is allot of variations that can be done with this pattern. The pattern is on Raverly.com and is called the 75 yd Malabrigo mittens. A real keeper for sure. People seem to love to have their fingers free for the computer work and at the same time keep their hands warm. Women seem to love it when they get a manicure as the fingers are free and nails dry.
Here is a picture of Timothy. He sure has grown. He is my cuddle baby. He just loves to have his cheeks and chin massaged. Have to get a pic of Little Bit up soon, thinking of renaming him Little Bite, he has his moods.

We are supposed to get snow today, so far has been a mild winter in Michigan at least here in my corner of it. Although I do not like the mess, I do hope we get one good blizzard, I love to watch it coming down. More later and as always God Bless, Hugs, Dusty

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T15:50:00.000-08:00

Makaila at a Christmas school concert.

Christmas sure seemed to come quickly in 2009. It seems like we just go the kids in school and bam, Christmas hits. As always we had a great celebration of Jesus's birth. Mike and I attended a play at church and it was awesome!

We went to my daughter's on Christmas day and then to Mike's mom on Saturday. It was two very busy days. I grab so photo's from my daughter's facebook as her camera takes awesome pics, mine needs some adjustments. Well I am pleased that I was able to hand make some gifts this year. I got 2 hats and 4 pair of fingerless mittens done. I even finished up a bowtie scarf that was in hibernation from last year. Here are some pics of the fun...

Tracy and my daughter Trish made lots of goodies, this is Tracy as she proudly displays all their hard work that day. It sure was yummy especially those chocolate covered pretzels.

NUM NUM NUM

The kids are always eager to open up their stockings. What fun it is to see them even as teenagers delight in this tradition.

Makaila, Megan and Megan's friend Kristen. Da Girls

We did a candle ceremony in honor of the kids parents and they all lite a candle off of mom and dads signifying the bond in our family. We expressed our love it was very touching hearing the kids honor mom and dad. Then as we all held our lit candles we sang silent night.

Alway fun at this time of year. Now where are my knitting needles best get started on next years gifts, Hugs, Dusty

Much Needed Update

2009-11-19T07:21:00.000-08:00

Wow life stepped in all over the place. I bad, not post since Oct. Some of you have been wondering if I fell off the face of this planet. Never fear, I am here and like the rest of you busy. And now I hear Christmas is like 30 something days ago. Well here I go again like Susan homemaker, can make and do everything in 2 weeks. Why is it we think we have all this time to knit 20 hats and mittens, a scarf or two, do the shopping and sing jingle bells while wearing heels at the same time. Oh all the lovely things I want to do and make, but knowing me...lol...I will stay the course and attempt to get done a reasonable amount. So it has begun:

I knit Adam a nice hat for his birthday. Why is it the men in our family have such large heads! This hat is so big it could be turned into a purse lol.

Next my girlfriend ask me to make some fingerless gloves for her son. So here they are, it is one of my favorite things to make. Allot of people love them as they leave the fingers free.

The current thing I am working on is Mike's hat. Mike decided it was time to shave the head. He had such little hair on top that he had to constantly use goop glue to hold it in place. So enough was enough. So now I gotta make hats for him. Another large head 25 inches, good grief, these hats are huge lol. He looks great with his new look and no more goop to buy.

Of course this posting would not be complete without a picture of the boys. They are very healthy and have their personilities. Timothy our golden boy has become quite the talker. He was so very quiet for so long. He loves to be scratched under his chin and sides of his face.Little Bit, is still our more curious one, he is first to grab anything that I place in the cage. He is always looking for new things to explore. He likes being held on his terms and will make is squeaker noises of disapproval. He is such a rascal sometimes.

I am making my angel pins also, they turn out so nice and I really like giving the to people.
I gave one to a friend of mine. She was going to the funeral home to be with a friend that had lost a 3 month old to sids. When I gave her the pin she asked if she could give it to her friend, and I said of course. (I did make another one for her.) Well, she gave it to the aunt of this child and the woman was overjoyed to receive it. Well, the aunt had a picture of her niece and wanted to do something special so that evening she took the angel pic and weaved a picture of the baby in the body of it. My friend said it was breathtaking. The aunt proceed to tell about me and my ministry of giving out angel pins. Isn't it something how God can take a simple pin and send it to a grieving aunt for comfort, and the Aunt was able to honor her niece. WOW talk about a God thing.
Well see what happens when I do not blog for awhile, LOL, have a great day, off the do the laundry and get knitting. After all I am Susie homemaker and I can do it all...ya right.

Hugs, Dusty

Makaila Sings to Timothy

2009-09-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

Makaila wanted to sing a song to Timothy and tell you about him. She sure does love her pig.

Piggy Video Debut

2009-09-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

Lookie what I can do!! Been playing with my phone video. This is awesome.If you turn up the volume you can hear the weaking of Little Bit. This is my first attempt at this not too bad. How bout that I can send you them live now.

Hugs, Dusty

Makaila and Little Bit

2009-09-13T18:03:00.001-07:00

What a great weekend with the kids! Adam and Makaila got their bikes fixed at a shop by our house and they had a blast riding bikes together. They went to the bookstore and then headed over to the

park. We are letting Makaila do a bit more now that she is older and she was very excited about riding her bike to the park. I told the rules to her at least 50 times before she went out the door. Adam finally said, "Grandma we got it". Hard sometimes to the the rope out a bit more. But they did great! Makaila had some great one on one time with Little Bit. He was quite content to have her cuddle him.

It was just adorable. She is growing quite fond of these little guys.

Hugs, Dusty

Boys are Growing

2009-09-08T17:25:00.001-07:00

The boys are growing fast. They are becoming more trusting. They sure do like to eat. They are eating 1/2 greeen pepper a day. The Vit C is very important for them, they like us do not store Vit C. At times now they are coming up to the front of the cage to see what I got.

I would like to ask those of you who visit my blog to keep my husband's brother in your prayers. He was in an accident several years ago and they had to take out his spleen due to his injuries. His body is not able to fight of infections. He started running a fever and his legs swelled up double He got a staff infection and it went to his spine and formed an abcess. He was in intensive care for 5 days. He could not move his legs at all. He had the surgery and they drained the infection on his spine. Usually if a patient does not show marked improvement soon after surgery the outcome is not promising. At this time it is said that he may not walk again.

But we are hopeful, doctors have been surprised by many miracles.

Thanks, Dusty

This Is A Surprise

2009-08-28T18:15:00.001-07:00

Timothy was the shy one when I brought him home. He did not even come out of the corner for several hours. Little Bit was all over the place and still is. Well, Timothy is coming out of his shell nicely. In fact, as you can see from the pictures today, he is becoming first in-line for food and coming up to see me. Little Bit is not as brave yet. He starts to come and then runs back. Well unless I have a grape LOL...

Timothy That Is Not Your Bed

2009-08-25T16:20:00.000-07:00

And what to my wondering eyes should appear, Timothy sitting in the food bowl. He was very content. Sometimes food is just that good.

Then they thought if they sat really still I would not notice them. Silly boys. Hugs, Dusty

More Toys and New Bowl

2009-08-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

I decided to get another wood toy as they seem to enjoy the one I got yesterday. I also got this corner bowl which is working out quite nicely. There cage is becoming quite nice. They are now running up and down the ramp just having tons of fun. Hugs, Dusty

New Toy

2009-08-21T18:08:00.001-07:00

I got the boys a wood holder today. Timothy was more interested in the bell then the wood.

Of course Little Bit check it out from top to bottom. They seem to enjoy it. Timothy was evening making pleasant noises today, he usually is the quiet one.

Hugs, Dusty

Bigger Than The Piggies

2009-08-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

Look out my kitchen window and what to my wondering eyes should appear, 2 fawns and mommy. Ran got my camera. I could not believe they were just sitting there. The neighbor was mowing his lawn and they were watching. Go figure. What a nice treat.

Drinking More Now

2009-08-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to see that the boys are drinking more water now. They love the green pepper and gobble that right up. Timothy is starting to be more relaxed when I hold him. He made the cutest noises. Little Bit is our acrobat, he just popcorns all over his cage. Timothy did a couple himself today. Here are the pics from today. They like the tunnels. Little Bit went to the food dish and dug out the carrots first, he sure does like them. Hugs, Dusty

Never Know What Comes Next

2009-08-17T16:34:00.001-07:00

Something new eveyday. I put Timothy up on the loft today. He never went up there so I thought it was about time. Of course Timothy had to get up their too and chatter at him to let him know he was the first one to discover it. So tonight after play time I put them back in the cage. Timothy at once went up on the loft. And Little bit followed. Too funny.

Now how is this for cute. They were kinda quite for a bit during playtime. So when I looked over to check on them there they were all snuggled together in the log LOL.

I sure am enjoying them as you can tell. Thanks for stopping by and peeking at the boys.

Big Day of Nail Clipping

2009-08-16T14:48:00.002-07:00

Today was nail clipping day. What a trip that was Timothy was better than I thought he would be, he only nipped a little on Mike to let him know it was not appreciated. But keep eating his carrot throughout the whole ordeal. Little Bit was very good but did let out a couple of noises of disapproval. First time clipping not so bad.

They are growing everyday and love to play in the pool playpen. Of course they go right to sleep when I put them back in their cage. Have a rest then up and at it again. Wish I had some of that engery. Hugs, Dusty

Hand Fed

2009-08-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Makaila was so delighted the boys were chowing down on hay eating right from her hand. We are making progress. Hugs, Dusty

Big Day of New Discoveries

2009-08-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

Busy day at the pigpen.

Today I went and got so Alfafa cubes. I will let the results speak for themselves. Little Bit got really brave today and went up the ramp, of course I had to put his hay up there to bribe him.

He pigged out on hay then cuddled in the corner to sleep it off LOL....

Such a rascal....hugs, Dusty

Can I Get A Piggie Bag Please

2009-08-12T04:38:00.000-07:00

How bout that! I was reading up on how to entertain the boys. They really love to investagate and play. So, it was suggested to put a brown paper lunch bag filled with hay. Stuffed the bag with some hay put it in the pool and this is what happened. Cute, cute, cute. I am in the process of washing up some fleece and fabric, going to make my boys some cuddle saks. Have a great day, and thanks for stopping by for the further adventures of Little Bit and Timothy.

Doing Fine

2009-08-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday was a great day. Our daughter Michelle and hubby Chris came over for a visit. And Trish and Ron also came over. It was great having all the kids here for the day. It was nice seeing them interact with each other and get excited. Didn't get a chance to take pictures, they are a rascal of a bunch when it comes to taking pictures. So I just get to brag on them.

Well, I took the piggies over to the vet yesterday as Timothy had a runny nose. I had them both checked out and they we fine. In fact the vet said they were very welled cared for. BIG SMILE ON DA MOM'S FACE....The trip over there was no charge since they are still under the 14 day free trial. Today is day 12 and everything is going good with them. Michelle spent lots of time holding them. Trish did not want to hold them, she did not want to get attached.

Well here are the latest pics taken this morning.

Makalia Back From Camp

2009-08-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

Picked up Makaila Friday afternoon. I asked her how she like Camp and she said, "Awesome". She did attempt to do the horseback riding, got out of the barn and then wanted off. We are proud of her that she tried and perhaps next year she can actually get down the path a little. She did wall rock climbing, water sliding, bouncing off a big tube thingy into the water, campfires and such. I was please that she had such a great time. Of course she asked how the piggies were doing. When she saw them she said, "wow they got bigger". We rearrange some furniture in the computer room a bit. I will take some pics tomorrow of their setup.

Cute Alert

2009-08-06T15:00:00.000-07:00

Now these are two cute pigs. Hugs Dusty

Makaila Camp Pictures

2009-08-06T05:15:00.000-07:00

The Camp Staff took lots of pictures of the kids at camp all week. I can hardly believe that I am going to be picking her up tommorrow. What a fast week! In the first picture Makaila is in the orange shorts front and center. In the group pic from left to right she is on the far right. She sure does look happy. She has spent the last week at Camp Woodside. The church had scholarships available and we were able to send 29 kids to camp on the schloarships. Can you imagine over $5000 yes that is correct five thousand dollars was donated to help the families send their kids to camp.
Well you did not think I would forget my boys the previous post is from yesterday afternoon. Just scroll down a bit and see the most recent cute pics of them.
Have a great day! Hugs, Dusty

Afternoon Playtime

2009-08-05T14:51:00.000-07:00

Little Bit was more interested in playing with the paper. Timothy was chowing on green pepper and checking out the rocks. He is really coming out of his shell. What curious little creatures. I had not idea they could be so entertaining. Hugs, Dusty

The Saga Continues

2009-08-05T05:13:00.000-07:00

Yep Tis true I am one of those bragging moms. So humour me please. This morning the boys seem more adventureous. Even Timothy. They really like the PVC piping. I have to keep the short pieces for now either I may never see Timothy (golden one) ago. He was quite brave today exploring the cage. I think we are making progress. WOW they sure do like green pepper, gobble that right up. Thanks for stopping by for an update on the adventures of Little Bit and Timothy. Hugs, Dusty

Coming Around A Little

2009-08-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

The boys are settling in a bit. Little Bit is the more adventureous and loves the wading pool. He makes cute noises and investagates everything. And as you can barely see, Timothy is hiding in the tube. He is not as trusting yet. They are getting used to being held. They still tend to run for cover at times but I know they are still getting use to their enviroment.

Makaila is at Camp this week. She will return on Friday afternoon. I am sure she will have a great time as she gets to have a one hour horse back ride this year.

Well, I think we might go see the movie G-Force today. More Later, Hugs, Dusty

Guinea Pig Debut

2009-08-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

I am please to introduce to you our piggies: Little Bit, is the brown and white one. He is the dominate one. He rules the cage. He is the first out to eat, drink and play. After he is done he will stop chasing Timothy and let him eat and drink. Little Bit is always out first to explore any new going on's in the cage. He has an adventureous heart. He has been popcorning all over his cage.

Timothy, is Makaila's piggie and she loves him so much. He has such a beautiful golden color. No popcorns yet. He hides out in the corner. He is getting used to us, but he still is more reserved.

Mike, my hubby, holds them and they both will make pleasing noises all over the place. And this morning Makaila was holding Timothy and softly singing to him and he was very pleased and noised his appreciation. He even ate green pepper for her.

Adam held Little Bit and got him to eat his pepper also. He noised for him too.

So we all are enjoying our little pets, lots different from owning a dog, but still fun. I am sure you will be updated regularly on out little guys and watch them grow. I am going to change the bedding later today, I am using the towels and fleece, I have been told they really like the soft bedding.

Hugs, Dusty

Our Sorrow and Joy

2009-07-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

On June 18th we had to put down our beloved Dog, Dusty. It has been a hard ajustment. He was such a good dog. He was 12 and became very sick. It has been over a month now since his passing.

I have been missing his companionship so much, Mike is outta town allot and away allot of nights. Dusty was great company. So, I thought hmmmmmmm, maybe a guinea piglet. So for the past few weeks I have been studying up on the care and feeding of them. Surprisingly they are very social creatures. I joined a Guinea Pig Soiety and they are very helpful. I already told most of you that my Daughter and Son brought me the works for my pig, cage, food, and 2 piggies. Little Bit and Timothy. They are settling in and I will take pictures next week. How great it is to have a pet in the house again. Makaila got all excited when she saw they had leashes for them, I have to quiet her down and let her know that no honey you know take them for walks, it is for when they are outside in the grass. I told her that Timothy could be her guinea pig and she was thrilled. Going to teach her about caring for him. Well gotta get my day going. Updates will be coming soon.
Hugs Dusty

2009-03-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

Bit late in posting these pictures, life just seems to take over at times. My daughter Trish had a great 40th birthday party at our home. It was in January. The kids had a great time and Makaila sang a special song to mommy. Hugs, Dusty

Tyler, Makaila, Sean and Adam....

Family pic: What a group LOL....

Mommy and Makaila can't wait to sink their teeth into the cake.....yummy, of course everyone wanted the roses to eat! Best part!

Birthday Gifts Done

2009-01-30T20:56:00.000-08:00

Well, we were going to celebrate my daughter, Trish's 40th birthday last Sunday. Due to colds and my daughter not feeling well we postponed to this coming Sunday. I am delight to report that I got her felted tote done along with a nice scarf and some fingerless mittens. The mittens were allot of fun to make. The kids will be here tomorrow to help get the decorations up and wrap presents. Our daughter Michelle will be having a birthday the end of February, so I gotten get my knitting needles clicking again. I have her tote halfway done. She will also get some fingerless mitts. Hubby just informed me that he would like a pair also.

Here are the pictures of her stuff... Hugs, Dusty

Tote Progress

2009-01-14T15:06:00.000-08:00

This is the progress thus far on my daughter's tote. It is ready for the next step, felting! I have to get a zippered pillowcase on Friday. I am anixous to see how it felts up. So far so good on the knitting end of it.

The pattern for this simple bag can be found here:

http://www.philosopherswool.com/Pages/FeltedBags.htm

I did mine two sizes bigger, cast on 116. I wanted it to be roomy. I hear that they shrink more in hieght than width.

Working on another one that was supposed to be a gift but I like it so much I gonna keep it, going to make a market bag for her instead.

Well my baby girl turns 40 at the end of the month, I hope she likes the tote, where did the time go! More Later, Hugs, Dusty

Christmas Was Awesome

2008-12-29T11:53:00.001-08:00

Christmas was once again awesome. Time spent with family and friends, it just does not get better than that!Adam and Makaila did a wonderful presentation once again this year. They said songs, and even had others join in on some of the songs. IT was so much fun!!!!!

Here are a few pictures of the kids making some homemade gifts of fudge and chocolate covered pretzels. Grandpa got a peggle game and loves it.

Well our girls have upcoming birthdays, Trish in Jan and Michelle in Feb, time to get started on their gifts...going to attempt to make some felted bags.

Hugs, Dusty

Have To Brag On My Sister-In-Law

2008-12-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

WOW, would you look at these wonderful hats!!! A couple of years ago I taught my sister-in-law Ginny to make hats on the Knifty Knitter Looms. Well let me tell ya, she just took off with it and became better than her teacher LOL..I am so proud of her. She makes several for gifts and gives lots of them away. What a blessing it is to have her in our family.

Hugs, Dusty

My Latestest Adventures

2008-12-08T10:23:00.001-08:00

Wow it has been a long time since my last post! Shame on me LOL. What a busy summer and wow it went by so quickly. The kids had a great time over the summer and Adam was baptized in the lake in late August. What a thrill that was, trying to get mommy to get me the pics so I can post it.

Makaila's birthday is the 19th but we celebrated it yesterday. She has a sleepover with 7 of her girlfriends and they had a blast, soon pics will be posted. She turned 10. On Sunday we went over and gave her our presents. Here she is in her new crocheted hood/scarf.

Even Grandpa got in the birthday mood LOL.

I also have been busy making up some potholders as gifts. They are so easy to make and they are well received.

Well time to get busy with more craft stuff, going to make some hats.

Hopefully it will not be long till my next update to my blog. I do hope everyone will have a great Christmas. Hugs, Dusty

Raglan Baby Sweater Done!

2008-03-11T10:15:00.001-07:00

This was a very easy sweater to do. It is all done in one piece. All that is left is to seam up the underarms. This is the first sweater I have done. It is being modeled on a 3-6 month baby doll.

I did the sweater using Plymoth Encore WW yarn.

Till next time,

Hugs, Dusty

You can find the pattern here:

http://shop.royalyarns.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=10132

When One Thing Doesn't Work..Keep Going

2008-02-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

Ok, let's not talk about the knitting class I took on fair isle knitting...what a mess, too many yarn dangels for his old brain to deal with at this time LOL...but I did give it a good try.... we had to do the flaps, then cast on, so far so good, then came the zinger, had to wrap the yarn around your neck and then flick the purl stitch around the needle keeping then tension tight. Got lost on my chart and math calculations....geesh this was suppose to be fun LOL..
So I found this cute pattern on the net, Time Thief Watch Cap Jr. http://need2knit.blogspot.com/2007/07/time-thief-watch-cap-jr.html
I inquire from a few of my knitting groups on exactly how to carry that unused color and then I was off to the needle. I use Berant Satin Yarn which is a WW yarn. Wow this was great fun and a big boost to a bruised ego, after my fair isle flop.
So after my ego go soothe I went on to do the Time Thief Watch Cap,
http://need2knit.blogspot.com/2006/12/time-thief-watch-cap.html

Well, so far this year I am not doing to shabby on my hats, nothing lacey, nothing fancy, just me and my sticks having fun. I am glad I stopped being so hard on myself and thinking everything had to be so perfect! Even my flops are learning experiences.

I really like these earflap hats and have will be doing more of these.

Well that is it fer now for me and my knitting adventures.
Now to see what is next to do. Perhaps I will venture out to a baby sweater. Still working on the Baby Surprise Jacket, have to figure out how to do the button band.

Hugs, Dusty

It Actually Works!

2008-02-18T15:10:00.000-08:00

I am just amazed! I am actually making this! I have a dear friend that is coaching me. I love the way this little sweater is coming together. This is a preemie size.

Have to figure out the button holes yet and a collar, but as my teacher says, "ONE STEP AT A TIME".

I am so thankful to you my friend for taking the time to help me through this pattern. Getting brave now in my knitting LOL.. Dusty

That's A What!

2008-01-28T10:58:00.000-08:00

I finished my earflap hat!
http://hyenacart.com/prod_details.php?id=45119&vid=57
I ended up have 89 stitches instead of the 90, but I worked it our okay. Few mistakes here and there but
all in all I did it! I am going to do another one cause it is such a easy one to do. I knit a row on the flap
part when I should have purl, but it still turned out okay. This is a very user friendly pattern.

Next I am finishing up my pocketbook slippers.
These are a fun knit.
http://www.knitwits-heaven.com/pocket_book_slippers.htm
I ask hubby, what do you think this is, he was very surprised to
see me put it on my foot. I am hoping to get some help on how this
can be knit in the round to elimate the seaming on the sides. I am not
yet good at seaming stuff together.
Here is a story about these slippers that is so neat!
http://misstwiss.blogspot.com/2007/09/mrs-m-s-draves-slippers.html
Well, that is the update on my knitting adventures, plain and simple
designs that I can do.
Till next time, Hugs, Dusty

Winter Fun and Hats and Such

2008-01-25T09:55:00.001-08:00

Winter Fun and Hats and Such!

Grandpa went outside and made a mini snowman for Makaila, she was thrilled. Grandpa on the other hand came in with a hurting back and went straight to the icepacks LOL....good thing he did not build a big one!

I decided to concentrate on my knitting skills. I found lots of adorable patterns for earflap hats. The pattern for this one can be found here http://knithats.tripod.com/id12.html It was so easy. Next time I will go down a needle size for the rows of ribbing on the brim to tighten it up a bit. See I learned something new already!

This is another version of a earflap hat called the

KY Cozy Earflap Hat. I love it. I did make a few minor mistakes, but it is turning our pretty good. Definitely will be making another one. Pattern was very easy to follow.I will be finishing this one up tonight.

The link to purchase this pattern is:

http://hyenacart.com/prod_details.php?id=45119&vid=57

These booties are so easy to make! I love them!

They are Bev's Stay on Booties and can be found at

http://www.bevscountrycottage.com/bevs-stay-on-booties.html

I found this website while surfing a few weeks ago and thought it was so delightful!http://www.knittingtipsbyjudy.com/index.html

Judy is such a delight! She is so down to earth! Her knitting videos are so simple to understand.She just put out two knitting videos and is working on, "How to knit". Her how to knit series will take youstep by step in completing a project. Stop by and give her a visit, you will be glad you did!

KNITTING TIPS, STORIES, PHOTOS AND VIDEOS FROM JUDY GRAHAM, HOLLYWOOD KNITTER TO THE STARS.

Well that is it from me for now. Back to my knitting adventures, that is after I do all the daily stuff, then it is knit, wakeup, knit wakeup, knit wakeup....you know how it goes, by the time we get to our fun stuff we take mini naps inbetween.

Hugs and God Bless, thanks for stopping by....Dusty

2007-12-16T13:03:00.000-08:00

Makaila Turns 9. Birthday Dec 19!! She has a cold so Granny blew out the cake candles and she had a snowman ring.

She got a Strawberry Christmas movie from her brother Adam and Toys in Playland from Tyler.

Granny made her some nice warm mittens.

And she got a very nice Musical Clown doll from us.

She had a great time eating cake and is now enjoying her movies.

She is thrilled cause she stills gets another party at home.

Celebrated Makaila birthday this afternoon. We were supposed to go to her house today but we were hit

with a huge snow storm, so we had a party at Granny's. It was a fun filled afternoon, now where is my pillow LOL...

Love This Time Of Year!

2007-12-14T08:36:00.001-08:00

Got my tree up and trying to get out the rest of the decorations. My back has been giving me fits again so I have to do things in stages. I wanted to make sure I wished all of you my dear friends a very Merry Christmas. Know that I keep you all in my prayers.

I have been busy as you with the season. I have fudge to make and rice krispie treats, I add M&M's to them and they are a big hit with the adults as well as the kids. I have to get my sewing room set up and get my pillow cases made. The children always enjoy getting the pillows. I am finishing up a pair of mittens for my grand daughter and they turned out really cute. I will post some pictures when I get them finished. Makaila has been asking for a fish, so I am going to get her one for Christmas. I think I am having more fun than the kids. We are blessed to have the children on Christmas eve this year again. On Christmas eve we go to church and focus on the meaning of Christmas....the kids enjoy it so much. Please email me and let me know what are some Christmas traditions you share with your family.

Huggers, Dusty

Some Wedding Pictures

2007-08-12T08:25:00.001-07:00

AUGUST 5, 2007
The wedding was very nice. I did get a few pictures from my brother's camera. This one is Michelle, Dusty, and Mike. Daddy was glowing as was the daughter.

We did have a professional photographer and we are waiting on the pictures. I hope I will be able to purchase them on CD so I can create slide shows and such.

Michelle and Chris one happy couple!

I will post more pics as I get them.

Mike did a beautiful toast to the couple and most everyone cried. Michelle sang a song to her dad during the father, daughter dance...it was awesome and daddy wept. Got some great shots of that, I will let you know the song when she sends it....she heard it when she was 14 yrs old and sat on it for her wedding.

Well, more later. Hugs Dusty

Count Down Time

2007-07-30T05:01:00.000-07:00

We are in the home stretch now!! Wedding is this coming Sunday! Lots of traveling to do this week. I went last Thursday and got my dress. I was getting concerned cause I waited so long and all the stores are putting in their fall items. Michelle wanted me to get something with yellow in it....so after 3 stores and lots of walking, my girlfriend and I found the perfect dress and get this....it was $90 on sale for 39.99 and another 30% off that! Then I went shopping to try to find shoes to match....well I found a really cute pair....$67 on sale for $20! Now hubby said don't be telling everyone how much you spent...LOL...come on girls don't we just love to share our good finds! I then found a purse at Meijers...it was on sale too!! Next I have to get my a manicure and a haircut. Friday is the rehearsal dinner and then Sunday the wedding, lots of road time over the weekend.

My feet are doing much better after a couple of weeks of pain. I got some of those cogs from the Dr's office and what a difference they make. I still have some pain but it is much better. Bone spurs are just awful!!

I have been playing a game called "Animal Crossing" and it is so much fun. My daughter is into it also..the game is for 6 and up...we are the up part LOL....we play it on the game cube. Makaila thinks it is a great game.

You have a house and fill it with furniture...like a dollhouse. I have not have time to knit...hmmmmmmmmm I think I need to balance my game time with knitting..

Well here are some more pics of Tyler and Makaila having fun. It is a riot watching them play in the water.

Hugs, Dusty

Makaila giggled cause she thought he was so silly, she did not know that dogs like water sometimes.

Tyler loves to get sprayed by Tiki, it is so funny to watch him get a face full of water.

Dusty thought it looked pretty good to get cooled down so he joined Makaila in the water.

Face full of summer fun!

Give two kids a small pool, a hose and a dog and you have a great combo of fun.

Next post I will try to have some pics of the wedding.

God Bless and thanks for stopping by.

Hugs, Dusty

Ramblings of the past week

2007-07-17T06:27:00.000-07:00

Isn't he just busy chowing down LOL....we are enjoying our animals on our deck. They knock down the feeder so we just let it set on our porch. My window box is looking a bit sparse as we have a new member, a groundhog who thinks grannie's flowers taste good. Grannie is not amused.

My camera is not working. The card need to be reformatted. I tried to do it but it did not work. My brother said it was easy...isn't it always easy when you know how.

We are now getting geared up for the wedding on Aug 5. My feet are flaring up again with the bone spurs. I have an appointment tomorrow. I am waiting for a game called Animal Crossing for the gamecube. My daughter took my other copy and has been having a good time with it. It is a silly game where you just create a town and gather stuff. It is for ages 6 and up...my daughter is the up group. Lot's of adults are playing this game and having a good time. So I got me a copy so I could join in on the fun. The grandkids think it is great as they are playing it at home. Looks like I might have to be on the outlook for another gamecube. The things that amuse are are indeed a wonder at times. Like Ace Ventura says....ALL RIGHTY THEN!

I was very excited when I won the bid on Ebay for some Adventures in Odysedy tapes. They are great tapes with moral lessons in each one. I know the grandkids will love them. I am putting them back for Christmas. I have started to squirrel away presents. I know this is only July, that is what I thought last year and whoosh, it was December.

On August 12 we will have been here for a whole year already, wow, that went fast. We are renewing our contract. I really love our new location and hope we can stay here for a few years.

Well, time to get my day going, God Bless and catch you all later, hopefully with a fixed camera.

Michelle's Bridal Shower

2007-07-10T04:49:00.000-07:00

The Bridal Shower was so much fun! Although it was terribly hot in the resturant. The air was not working correctly and the fans were broke. So among melting guests and candy we did manage to have a great time.
This picture starting from the left is: Leona my mother-in-law, then my daughter's Michelle and Trish. Seems like I turned my back and they became grown women.

This picture is from the left: Dusty, Mom Whelan and our beautiful bride to be, Michelle.

Dusty and daughter Trish. Trish is, Adam, Tyler's, and Makaila's mom. She look so prety in her dress!

It was indeed a lovely afternoon. Watching you children grow and move into their lives is amazing!

I wanted to quick share some pictures of Tyler having fun in the sun. It is so hard to get good pictures of him. For those of you who do not know, Tyler is Austistic. I caregive for him 5 days a week. He is 13 now and is such a delightful child. Most of the time he is happy. Tyler is non-verbal. Tyler loves the water as you can see in these pictures. He also loves movies, and going to the malls and stores. He loves to swing in the park, the higher the better. I just the these pictures of him, especially the one's with grandpa.

So much fun and what fun it was taking the pictures! Well, now to get ready for the wedding on August 5th. I still have to buy a dress. My camera is stuck in picture error mode so now I have to track down what is up with that. Yikes I gotta have my camera LOL....Have a great week. Hugs, Dusty

Chipmonk Friend and Scarves

2007-07-06T15:28:00.000-07:00

Isn't this just the cutest. Hubby is so delighted we have a chipmonk! The squirrels got quite frisky and down came the bird feeder so we put it on our porch. This little fellow is taking his turn among the bunny's, birds and squirrels.Such a treat to watch them!

Finished my green bowtie scarf, I just have to weave in the ends. The pattern went quickly. You can find the pattern in my patterns section. Next is my red on in progress..this one takes a bit more as I have a reversible cable going down the center of it. Picture did not come out as clear as I wanted it to. My LYS showed me how to do the cable.

Getting geared up for the shower on Sunday for Michelle. I went and brought her one of those big Jewerly cases on wheels for all her jewerly makings. I had a 40% off coupon which saved alot on it.

Well till next time,

Still on the Potter's Wheel, Hugs, Dusty

Summer Fun, Pool and Flowers

2007-06-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

They do not seem to mind that the pool is so small, as long as there is water and they can get wet I have some happy children! Makaila loves the sprinkler especailly when it squirts out the top.

Hubby came home with a belated anniversary gift from his parents. They got us a hummingbird feeder and stand. We put it up next to our flower box. I sure do hope we get some hummingbirds. It is really a pretty one. It is shaped like a hot air balloon.

Here is the flower box that Adam was working on, it sure looks nice with a touch of color to it.

Now to finish up the the minute details this coming week for Michelle's shower.

Still on the Potters Wheel, Hugs, Dusty

Scarf Shawl For Makaila

2007-06-28T05:04:00.000-07:00

This is a Scarf Type Shawl I made for Makaila. It is from the LionBrand Yarn Site. It was very easy to do. Makaila wanted me to post a picture of her on my blog for you to see her scarf shawl.

Makaila has been spending the week with Grandma and Grandpa and attending Larger Than Life camp. On Sunday she gets to be in the Choir at church with her other campers. We are very excited.

Still on the Potters Wheel, Hugs, Dusty

Shawls Done!!

2007-06-27T07:19:00.000-07:00

This is our daughter Michelle. On Monday she and Chris came over for us to have our private pre-wedding welcoming Chris into the family and celebrating. We spent the whole day and into the evening with them. Michelle loved her shawl. I got to share some special mom-daughter time with her also. It is a time I pray she keeps in her heart as she gathers golden moments throughout her life. She said she was going to wear her shawl to the shower, which is one week from this Sunday. The wedding is on August 5th.

Next is the shawl I made for my other daughter Trish. It is a very easy to knit triangle shawl. I gave it to Trish yesterday, she was having a really rough day the day before and she was thrilled with the shawl.

This is a truer color of the shawl, isn't it amazing what different lighting does to colors.
http://cache.lionbrand.com/patterns/60301.html

I now will work on finishing my bowtie scarf. The first one is turning out a little bigger but it will still work.

Makaila is enjoying Larger Than Life Bible Camp this week. I take her each morning at 8:30 and pick her up in the afternoon at 3:30. You think she would be really tired...she is full of so my energy...maybe I will nail on shoe to the floor tonight LOL....this granny is having a busy week...it sure does bring back memories of raising my own children...but I didn't seem to poo out by 4 in the afternoon. No nap time this week. Um, when does school start back LOL...

Still on the Potter's Wheel,
Hugs, Dusty

Day In The Yard

2007-06-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Big trip out today. Makaila and Tyler and I went and picked out a few flowers to place in our window boxes. Makaila spots this pool and wants it even though it is very small.Well, here we are in the pool. I know a bit on the small size but the kids loved it anyway, but we do have a neat sprinker too..more about that in a moment. Ok this sprinkler shoots water out the sides and then it eyes open and shut, when the eyes open the water shoots way high in the air. Well, my dog did not know that...he walked by it just as it went off and what a fuss he made growling at it LOL

Makaila enjoyed the new flowerbox with all the flowers.

Adam helped with our other flower box.

It was a great afternoon! I think I am going to have to make a payment to my back though..it is hurting a bit even though I was careful...so I took some meds. Well the beds are stripped and laundry is going..just a couple more hours of work..but then I just had to go and sit down.

I have been working on my daughter's shawl and some scarves. Inbetween getting ready for the wedding shower and wedding. Summer is going fast. Makaila will be staying with us all next week so she can attend Bible Camp she is so excited. It will be a fun week.
More later everyone,

Still on Potter's Wheel,
Hugs, Dusty

Who would have thought??

2007-06-17T04:40:00.001-07:00

We live right dab in the middle of a busy city. Our house is set back off the road. We have a large back yard. We were told when we moved in last year that deer frequently trotted across the back yard..(hmmmm we thought).

Well, yesterday, what come trotting across our back yard but two fawns. We think the mom might have been hit by a car cause she was nowhere in site. My hubby had to take the picture through the screen..they bolted when he tried to get close to get a picture. It is such a delight in our backyard, we have deer, squirrels, and even a bunny that we call three ears and one of his ears is split.

Currently I am working on this cute bowtie scarf pattern. It has a reversible cable up the center strip. It will have a slot at the other end to tuck the other end of the scarf thru it. It is being done in Debbie Bliss Cashmerino. I also have a green Slotted Scarf in a dark green the picture did not show up great. I will try to get better pictures. I get some Baby Alpaca to do two more of these scarves..it is so soft and wonderful to work with.

Yesterday Tyler and I went for a drive and it was so hot. My AC is not working in my Bravado and it was miserable. I hope to get that fixed soon. We ended up at target and I got Tyler a lawn sprinkler for his birthday...we cannot have a pool, so I thought he would like to run in the sprinkler...hubby and I watched Ghost Rider last night with Nicholas Cage, (not that Nicholas Cage was here he was in the movie LOL)...while not one of his better movies it was entertaining. Well, time to get ready for church. They have a handicapped class for Tyler and he loves it. They have a huge window and he loves to walk back and forth looking outside. This has really worked out well for us as Mike and I can now attend our worship hour together. They have family hour at 5 tonight and we hope to make it back for that. My knitting ladies at church meet from 6-8 tonight and I am looking forward to that. So have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Till next time...
Still on the Potter's Wheel,
Hugs, Dusty..

2007-06-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

No Electricity!

Last night around 3 a.m. in the morning we awoke to the sound of several transformers popping! Flashes of white and bang...my dog was not happy at all about it. So we were without electricity for most of the day. My daughter brought over her generator and we use that to save our freezer stuff. So now what to do, can't phone anyone, can't use the computer, hmmmmmmmmm, what to do...okay so I went outside and help my daughter pull weeds and get the yard ready for tommorrow's flowers. Yikes it was hot..but I did pretty good for not being an outdoor type of person. If fact it was kinda exciting about getting some pretty colors in the yard. Tyler handled it pretty well considering he did not get to watch his morning movies...

So we finished up at noon and I was able to soot over to my yarn shop for some instruction on how to make the really cute bowtie scarves...I wrote down all the instructions on how to do the cable down the center strip...me thinks these will make great gifts. Got home and was surprised to find out I needed to get some size 6 needles...good thing I have a 40% of coupon! So off to JoAnn's then back home for a nap, then happy evening of knitting.

Will post some pics of my progress soon.

Still on the Potter's Wheel,
Hugs, Dusty

Found the Perfect Box!!!

2007-06-12T04:56:00.000-07:00

Isn't it amazing what nice things we can find in the grocery stores now. And what a bonus with stores like Meijers...not only do groceries...but bunches of other items too. I found the perfect box to package Michelle's shawl! She loves birds and hummingbirds are one of her favorites! So I see this round box with the same colors that are in her shawl! I put it in the cart then back out, in and out..it was $10..I really wanted to next size down..but eventally someone did too and all they had left was the large and tiny sizes. Well I put it back thinking that I did not want to pay that much for it...so then I get to the checkout...now the conversation going on in my head was so funny....I was scolding myself..you know you should get that box...how many times have you not gotten something and regretted it later....you know when you get home you are going to come right back and get it..(oh come-on you do this too. LOL....So I had the check-out person hold everything and ran back and got it...I sure am glad I did..I might of beaten myself up when I got home without it. (My hubby sure does like you all...I can just ramble on and on...)
Not only did I find the big box...I found this cute little box also! I have a necklace from my mom that I want to give to her. I am pondering doing up something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue also....do you know that the rest of it goes..and a sixpence for her shoe..
Okay time to get busy before the kids get here,
Still on the Potter's Wheel,
Hugs, Dusty

Some Doings...

2007-06-11T15:23:00.000-07:00

This is my dog, Dusty...he is such a riot. We were very forunate this weekend. He got loose and was standing in the middle of a very busy highway! The Good Lord was surely watching over him....sometimes I think he really is a cat with nine lives!

I got the teabag covers done for Michelle's wedding shower. They turn out really nice...now to go find, something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue...

Later,
Still on the Potter's Wheel,
Hugs, Dusty

Dusty's Doings

2007-06-10T06:07:00.000-07:00

Finally up and did it....welcome to my blog. Just ramblings of some of my doings.
This is a shawl I knit for my daughter's wedding shower. I did purchase a beautiful antique looking button for it. The pattern is from, Just One More Row . It is the Tapestry Shawl. It is done in short rows and is very easy to do. They have several nice patterns. Things are moving nicely toward the shower and wedding. I have to do the teabag covers and get the candy and such for the tables. Aren't showers so much fun..

I am working on another shawl for my daughter, Trish. I will post a picture soon. It is another very easy pattern and looks great, plus it is a very fast knit! Doesn't get much better than that!

Till next time,
Hugs, Dusty