HobbyMommy

Moving on...

2012-01-01T21:50:00.002-05:00

Hello! Been a long long while.... I haven't had the time to blog here at HobbyMommy as intended. Blogging over at CheeryHere with a "less is more" approach. Hope to see you there!

Take good care!

2011-05-28T18:08:00.003-04:00

Last weekend was beautiful and we spent much of our time outside.

I stood outside staring at a mess and decided that my "herbs gone wild" garden had to change... My herb garden started the spring my mother became ill. I put in a few herbs... some mint, lavender, sage, rue, chives, basil, lemon balm, and oregano. The following spring I brought bricks from my parents' old walkway and bricked the area into a nice raised bed, installed landscape fabric, and rearranged my herbs. I added some others. The mint eventually went crazy. (It is hard to believe that so much could come from one little pot.) I eventually relocated it to the back of the garage. I continued each year to tweak the herb space and eventually things became crowded. The landscape fabric, I finally realized, was not properly placed and I had a natural disaster. The lemon balm was sprouting everywhere and the weeds were embedded in the landscape fabric. It also seemed that I had neglected cutting things back in the fall. I dove in... I put on my gloves, dug around a bit, grabbed the landscape fabric, and just started pulling, ripping, and rolling. Very quickly, I had the bed cleaned out. Some herbs were sacrificed. I might have heard some cries! I replaced the herbs. I planted the butterfly bush my family gave me for Mother's Day in the center of the bed. I added a variety of other perennials that attract humming birds and butterflies too. We even planted a money tree from my Grandmother's. (Simon & Annestelle are still trying to figure that one out!) I am looking forward to the blooms that will assist Mary in blessing our yard this summer!

Happy Hobbies!

A Random Return...

2011-05-11T20:10:00.000-04:00

Finally, back to this place!
(Thanks Nicole, for the little nudge.)

Kept away by...
a new job/career (part-time, but time-consuming, so much to learn)
the many activities of my darling little people (music lessons and practice, school activities, first reconciliation, so much more)
strep throat (Annestelle has had it 3 times since Christmas)
the piano I'm learning to play (learning to play has been one of my little dreams)
the Nook and many books (can't read enough these days)
another birthday (39 this year)
a trip to WV (another fantastic EASTER at Spider Ridge)

Had a lovely Mother's day here...
walked the Mother's Day 5K with my Simon,
had a nice lunch with my family, &
relaxed the afternoon away!

Hasn't been much sewing or knitting...
made an apron
finished knitting a shawl
de-cluttered my hobby space

Feeling settled into this new season of life and I'll be back soon!

Happy Hobbies!

SSCS Gifts...

2010-12-31T13:00:00.006-05:00

Don't you love it?

This was the gift received from my swap partner, Kate.

Thank you so much Kate!!
It is pretty and perfect and just what I needed!

I made my little people bags for our weekly trips to the library and now I get to have a special library bag too!!

The partner I sent my gift to was another Kate

This quilt is called Dazey Daze from Debbie Mumm!

Kate posted about receiving it here.

Sincere thanks to Chookyblue for hosting this swap again this year!

Happy Hobbies!!

Believe

2010-12-24T07:50:00.003-05:00

Everyone can be a child at Christmas.

Everyone can celebrate with glee.

Everyone can make a Christmas wish list

And gather 'round to decorate the tree.

Everyone can watch for Santa's helpers,

Darting in and out as good elves should.

Telling Santa Claus if we've been naughty,

Letting Santa know if we've been good!

Everyone can wonder at a snowfall

Blanketing the hills in winter white

And enjoy the spirit of the season

Or the moonglow on a silent night.

Everyone can know the special magic

Of waiting for St. Nick on Christmas Eve.

Everyone can be a child at Christmas;

All we have to do is just believe.

~Jan Miller Girando~

Merry Christmas friends!

Tuesday

2010-12-07T15:40:00.004-05:00

Christmas Sewing...

Here is a picture (not the best) of one of the sets of applique towels I'm sending off to one of my favorite families this Christmas!

The towels are from Target and the fabric is from my stash!

More Christmas sewing to come...

Happy Hobbies!

Thursday

2010-12-02T10:32:00.002-05:00

Some decorating...

I decided to get into some holiday decorating yesterday.

My original plan was to do just a bit of decorating each day.

I was just going to do the mantle, but I emptied that box and had things put up in about 10 minutes. I decided to keep going. So, one box at a time, I emptied and placed item after item.

Finished and tidied up in less than an hour!

That's it!

(I've finally learned, that if you box everything up just so the year before, it really is just that easy!)

I spent the rest of my day just smiling!

Simon & Annestelle were ever so excited when they came home from school!

There were reindeer games!

And, before bed, the question...

"When will we put up and decorate our Christmas trees?"

Now for today... more Christmas making!

Happy Hobbies!

Monday

2010-11-29T19:13:00.005-05:00

I will NEVER be too old for

I remember listening to this album all through the 1980's each year during the Christmas season! Now my kids love to listen with me.

Now it is a CD, but back then it was a good old record!

What are you listening to? Is it something old or new?

Happy Hobbies!

Sunday

2010-11-28T14:13:00.003-05:00

Handmade Mistletoe

Mistletoe has been a required decoration since the little people have been old enough to get the concept of kissing under it! Each year we scramble to the places we know to find it and we are always put off for a week or so because the orders have not yet come in. In reality, the mistletoe we buy isn't very big or even very pretty as it is heavily preserved. So when I saw the pattern for Magical Mistletoe, here, I was thrilled! I worked with Aunt Betty and we made 7 sets. We used wool felt on one side and fabric on the other and used a much lighter fusible stabilizer than recommended. I also opted to use beads rather than the felt balls because of the large number needed for the 7 sets. I have just 2 sets left to bead for each of the kids rooms. I think these are lovely little holiday keepsakes!

Happy Hobbies!

Thanksgiving Thursday

2010-11-25T18:39:00.003-05:00

This morning I ran the Turkey Trot in the rain.

I am thankful!

This afternoon we had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal with some of my family.

I am thankful!

We were guests and not hosts.

I am thankful!

This evening I will be sitting and knitting all evening long!

I am thankful!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Happy Hobbies!

Wednesday

2010-11-24T20:55:00.004-05:00

Halloween... a month later

(better late than never)

Here they are...

Dracula

Kitty Witch

Bat Girl (the doll)

A fun day. A fun night. Too much chocolate for Mommy!

Happy Hobbies!

Tuesday

2010-11-23T15:35:00.005-05:00

Cinnamon Honey Butter

This simple recipe can be found here at LIFE IN GRACE.
After making and trying a tester batch, Annestelle said, "It tastes like Christmas!"

She is so right!

We made a double batch and filled six 8 oz. jelly jars to give as hostess gifts this Thanksgiving weekend!

Aren't these jars sweet?

I plan to make a few more batches to give as Christmas gifts this year too!

Happy Hobbies!

Monday

2010-11-22T21:41:00.003-05:00

The last week has been full of cinnamon tea and trying to finish my SSCS gift in time!

What are you working on?

Happy Hobbies!

Dear Blog,

2010-11-15T14:04:00.002-05:00

I know I've been ignoring you lately.
I don't know why.

Um..
Well, I do...

There was that nasty computer virus which resulted in my computer crashing. Lost so many things... sniff...

There was the first grade Halloween Party... Planning activities, organizing volunteers, etc...

Halloween weekend at our house called for fun party food... have pictures, no wait HAD pictures, but well, computer crash...

I've been working on my Secret Santa Christmas Swap present... can't show you that.

I've been knitting on a thing or two... Christmas secrets...

Also, sewing some doll clothes, something I said I would NEVER do. Never say never.

I can't seem to stop reading either....

I'm hoping to be a little more faithful dear blog... no promises though!

Take good care,
HobbyMommy

My Life this September

2010-09-27T10:33:00.003-04:00

Many things are spinning in my head and I want to share every tidbit with you, but this September has all but swallowed me up. For today, I'll just jump back into blogland with a few snippits how my time has been spent.

Job hunting... all that goes with that process
Activities for the little people... music lessons, orchestra, fun run, school lunch duty
Birthday parties... my sweet girlie Annestelle turned 7 on Saturday and HobbyHubby is celebrating 39 today.
Knitting... there has been some... ever so slowly another pair of fetching gloves for a friend's birthday...
Sewing... on a library bag for my girl for Christmas
Planning... Christmas gifts, home improvements, life

Happy Hobbies!

Tennessee Adventures...

2010-09-05T17:48:00.006-04:00

We (HobbyHubby, the little people & my Mother-in-law) took a little trip Knoxville at the beginning of August to visit my brother-in-law.

We had a wee bit of time to visit a yarn shop.

Loved it!

We visited downtown Knoxville to see the SunSphere, which is located at the site of the 1982 World's Fair.

Went to the Knoxville Zoo and had such fun! Aren't those little people the cutest animals?

Went to the Dinosaur Walk in Pigeon Forge. Annestelle was in heaven, naming each and every dinosaur replica!

This is the view from Clingman's Dome, the Great Smokey Mountains National Park's highest point east of the Mississippi. Would you believe we saw John Glenn and his wife hiking back down from the Dome? Yes, the astronaut. HobbyHubby took Glenn's picture with a woman (using her camera), but hated to bother Glenn any further so didn't ask the woman to return the favor. Very exciting nonetheless!

Happy Hobbies!

{this moment}

2010-08-06T10:35:00.004-04:00

{this moment}

- A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

~ From Amanda Soule

Beret!

2010-08-04T21:25:00.002-04:00

I love this beret!

Quick! Easy! Fun!

What more could a girl need for a quick summer knitting project?

Well, maybe a bit of entertainment...

I quickly decided that I needed to know more about Crazy Aunt Purl while listening to an interview with her on a Knit Picks podcast recently.

This woman is hilarious! I just couldn't get my hands on her book fast enough.

Crazy Aunt Purl's Drunk, Divorced, and Covered in Cat Hair: The True-Life Misadventures of a 30-Something Who Learned to Knit After He Split

That's some title! You don't have to be a knitter to appreciate her humorous story!

Back to the beret; a few specifics...

I used some fantastic handspun wool from CosyMakes.

It seems I could have gone down a needle size, but rather than rip it back and repeat, I opted for felting. One cycle through the washing machine felted this hat just enough for my perfect fit. Now, I just have to wait for cooler weather to wear it!

I can wait.

Happy Hobbies!

A Quilt Finish

2010-08-01T18:41:00.005-04:00

This one is intended for use as a shower curtain.

The colors in this fabric line from Denyse Schmidt are a perfect match for the bird cards I plan to frame for display. I have to say, both the bird cards and quilt are prettier in person.

This is the back. I had the chance to use the professional quilt machine at Aunt Mary's last spring!

I tend to do things out of order... like picking out pictures and making a shower curtain before the 70's gold wallpaper is stripped, the shower surround replaced, new light fixtures installed, and the walls painted... you know, all the important stuff? I did finish the wallpaper stripping on Thursday! I really HATE stripping wallpaper, but it is done! The old fixtures are down... Progress is being made!

You'll be seeing the bathroom finish someday!!

Happy Hobbies!

Outside

2010-07-17T14:14:00.004-04:00

Enjoying...
Impatiens & Begonias on the deck...

and some lovely Lavender.

Noticing...
the sad condition of my herb bed;

possibly the saddest it has looked since I started it 5 years ago.

hmmmm....

Waiting for...
the wild flower mix to bloom.

Can you see the tiny bits of color?
They're coming!

Happy Hobbies!

Just in time for Christmas in July!

2010-06-21T18:48:00.003-04:00

Remember the blocks for this?

Here & Here

All of the fabric from this shopping trip with my mom & auntie.

I put this all together late in January while sewing with the aunties

& quilted it at the WV auntie's house on the big

beautiful quilting machine!

All that is left is sewing the tag and a wash.

I think I'll celebrate, on the first rainy day in July, by turning the air conditioning COLDER so I can cuddle up and watch It's A Wonderful Life!

Why not?

Happy Hobbies!

Pretty & Practical!

2010-06-14T21:09:00.003-04:00

Found this fabulous apron design with instructions in Stitch.

I decided that my day could be brightened while

doing my chores with an apron made from

this lovely piece of fabric!

It does make me smile!

Happy Hobbies!

School is OUT!

2010-06-13T23:06:00.002-04:00

Hurray!

As of last Tuesday, we have...

a 2nd grade boy &

a 1st grade girlie!

We've had the pleasure of 2 trips to the beach

with fabulous friends!

Our most scheduled summer time is immediate with

Summer Music Academy for her &

Summer (day) Camp for him over the next 2 weeks.

Busy & fun!

Happy Hobbies!

Wee knits...

2010-04-21T20:17:00.004-04:00

My first baby knits for a special little bundle we have yet to meet!

(this little giftie was shipped off to the little darling last weekend)

The Baby Belle Sweater and yarn purchased at the

Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival from CosyMakes.

The Jelly Bean Baby Socks are my first ever socks

(mighty or tiny) from Spud & Chloe.

Loved knitting both patterns.

I had to rip back many times, but learned so much.

Knit love, I tell you!

Happy Hobbies!

Our Little Violinist!

2010-04-20T20:03:00.004-04:00

Annestelle gave her first violin performance on Saturday at a Barnes & Noble book fair!

Despite dropping and breaking her bow, she was confident enough to play.

I think I was nervous for her!

She sure makes us proud!

Happy Hobbies!

The 2010 Knitting Olympics

2010-02-11T09:00:00.002-05:00

Thank you Yarn Harlot!

I'm taking on the challenge...

a never before knit...

my first sweater!

Garter Lace Jacket

from Ann Bud's book

Simple Style

I cast on tomorrow night during opening ceremonies!!

Happy Hobbies!!

Hello February...

2010-02-01T19:20:00.005-05:00

I planned to do so many things over the weekend.

One of those things was to finish testing a pattern for a fellow blogger.
When I finally made it to my sewing space on Saturday, I had the sudden urge to reorganize.

(This usually happens January 1st.)

Things happened:

furniture was removed
supplies were sorted and/or discarded
a list was made (I'll share that one later this week)
knitting books and notions were brought from upstairs
patterns from various blogs were filed
things were cleaned and vacuumed

After about 6 or so hours total, I called it quits.

Instead of testing that pattern, I ended up making Annestelle a scarf with scraps from her quilt.

She loves it!

What are you supposed to be working on and what has you sidetracked?

Happy Hobbies!

In the knitter's lunch box...

2010-01-25T14:08:00.003-05:00

HobbyHubby and the little people gave me the simple yet effective shawl pattern for Christmas and some lovely Noro sock yarn to go with it.

Been working on the piece for about a week and a half now...

What a simple and calming pattern...

Back tomorrow with some more quilting....

Happy Hobbies!

2010-01-18T19:34:00.002-05:00

Squares to go with the pinwheels...

which you will find here.

Happy Hobbies!

Piecing pinwheels for my Christmas quilt....

2010-01-12T20:07:00.003-05:00

It is not really late...

I mean, what is another month,

considering...

I've had this fabric since August of 2007

purchased on a shopping trip with my mom and aunt?

Aren't these fun?

Can't wait to get back to the machine...

Still trying to find my post Christmas groove.

Happy Hobbies!

Handmade Christmas Presents III

2010-01-07T13:37:00.002-05:00

Well!

I planned to post about all of the Christmas knitting that I completed.

Apparently I didn't take any pictures. Hmmm... What was I thinking?

So here is the run down of knitted items linked to the patterns.

2 sets of fetching gloves
1 tudora
1 set of fingerless (communion) mitts from Knit One, Embellish Too sans the embellishment

Not quite as many things as I thought...

Oh, right, I spent hours of my knitting untangling yarn.

Happy Hobbies!

Handmade Christmas Presents II

2010-01-03T10:38:00.003-05:00

Appliqued Towel Sets

for my little people and my nephews...

(I really need to improve my photography skills)

These were well received by all!

Handmade Christmas Presents I

2010-01-02T11:41:00.003-05:00

A book mark for our priest.

Pictures drawn by the little people and stitched by me.

Inspired by SouleMama's portrait bookmarks.

Simon asked what to draw and I asked him what he thought would be appropriate for Father.
Perfect!

Annestelle had the same idea!

Happy Hobbies!

Goodbye 2009; Hello 2010!

2010-01-01T16:26:00.007-05:00

(Christmas knitting with some help)

Last January my dear HobbyHubby said that 2009 was not going to be a good year. Statements like those don't often come from him, but he just had a feeling. Luckily his prediction wasn't completely on the money. 2009 wasn't such a bad year. Although, there WERE some dramas here and there regarding friends and family, resulting in a personal lack of focus for me across all of my roles, I still have a good many things to be grateful for:

friendships (old AND new)
16 years of marriage (our anniversary celebrated on New Year's Eve)
a year of music by our two little people (and the opportunities coming their way)
the magic of all that those same little people bring to our lives
hobbies & this little space (however neglected)
inspiration from blogland

I look forward to all that 2010 has to offer as well as all that I can bring to it!

Happy New Year & Happy Hobbies!

see you tomorrow

What I'm doing this week...

2009-10-28T10:01:00.003-04:00

taking care of my two little flu stricken peeps

and knitting...

I hope you all are staying flu free!

Happy Hobbies!

Knitting...

2009-10-22T13:28:00.003-04:00

I spent last weekend with 3 of my aunts. We watched movies while they all sewed and I knitted. It was wonderful to just be with them and have no cares.

We watched Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, Where the Heart Is, hmmm, now I can't remember what else. Anyhow...

for me

sneaks peeks for Christmas gifts...

Happy Hobbies!

Basket of Christmas Ambition

2009-10-14T10:57:00.002-04:00

Just been working on my Christmas list...
Who? What to make? What supplies?

Yarn! Didn't you know?
I found some yummy yarn in my own stash for a few projects and then headed on over to the yarn shop with Eve and picked up a few other delicious treats!!

I'm feeling full of energy and ambition and I'm calling this basket "ROUND ONE!"
Are you with me?
What is your medium going to be this Christmas?

Happy Hobbies!

Mitts...

2009-10-12T14:54:00.003-04:00

The dashing mitts from knitty!

These are the guy friendly version of the fetching gloves that I made so many pairs of last winter.
Love them... I made them for HobbyHubby.
They were supposed to be his gift for last Christmas...
Yeah, well... October... hmm... I KNOW!!!

I started these yummy mitts in May, but there were lots of issues...

The dog really did eat them... she split one of the double pointed needles right in half completely pulling the project off the needles. hmm... maybe I shouldn't have left the piece on the table....

I really did have to re-knit the first glove... eh, hmm... 4 times.... yes, too long, didn't count rows, forgot to cable, dog ate it...(oh said that already)

I really didn't knit for weeks and weeks... then would knit for 10 minutes and then not again... for a month.... hmmm.... What was I doing? Maybe my Hobby ADD state of mind!

The happy news is that the mitts are finished. The sad news is that the mitts are the only completed knitting project in 5 months... I think my ambition has returned... I hope!!

Happy Hobbies!

Binding

2009-10-09T10:43:00.002-04:00

I found my way down to my sewing space last weekend. JOY! I happily pieced the binding for "Split Decisions," which has been sitting on my sewing table since it came home in July. (See the machine quilting here.) I've made my way down one side of the quilt with the hand stitching, one interrupted stitch after the next, but have high hopes of finishing it over the weekend.

Happy Hobbies!

Tuesday Links

2009-10-06T12:25:00.004-04:00

Hello friends!

Just noticed my low number of blog posts for this year and wondered how that happened. A bit of a blog slacker? Maybe... It seems to me that I write posts all the time in my head, but never quite make it to the computer to actually type. hmmm.... As one of my friends says about so many things..."It is what it is!" I'll spare you the details of why I haven't made it to the computer in these last few weeks because frankly, it's not all that exciting. Instead, I'll share a couple of links...

Crazy Mom Quilts- Amanda Jean requested blocks from her readers for the Quilts of Valor project. The block above was my donation. Head over there to see all of the lovely squares that were donated!

Simple Mom- Love this plan for a stress free holiday. Check out the series that will be offered for easy holiday season.

Waking up in Bavaria- This former Simple Sparrow blogger has moved with her family from California to Germany for the next year. Each post has the most lovely pictures!

Happy Hobbies!

(Maybe I'll see you tomorrow too!)

Play Tents...

2009-09-12T09:20:00.004-04:00

The Little People and I spent several days in July having "vacation" days.

That fun included setting up tents on the patio where Simon & Annestelle played for hours.

After a trip to the library I found a pattern for these children's play tents.

I was pretty excited since our make shift tents fell down with any big gust of wind.

It took me until late August to finally make these tents.

My peeps choose to set them up close together and have already spent hours playing in them.

Annestelle playing last Sunday morning, still in her jammies...

(one of the great benefits of Saturday night mass is our lazy Sunday mornings)

Happy Hobbies!

Peach Goodness

2009-09-03T14:15:00.003-04:00

These are just some of the peaches picked by the little people and me while on a little excursion with my father and his wife a few weeks back.

A new to us activity. Peach picking.

My little people filled our time with numerous questions and endless speculation of what other fruits we could possibly pick as fall nears.

Peach crisp preparation.
Now there is an abundance of peach crisp in our freezer.
Beside the peach crisp are bags and bags of frozen peaches ready for other recipes.
mmm...
Happy Hobbies!

School day!!

2009-08-27T19:59:00.002-04:00

Simon and Annestelle were very excited yesterday morning for the first day of school.

After eating at The Breakfast Place, we made our way to school.

I was a bit tearful at drop off, but I knew they would be just fine. They were.

We officially have a first grader and a kindergartner.

HobbyHubby took the day off to spend with just me!

(yep, I'm spoiled!)

I'm still not sure where the summer break went.

But gone, it is!

Happy Hobbies!

A little more WV...

2009-08-11T20:00:00.001-04:00

As I said in a previous post, we had a wonderful time in WV.

Part of that wonderfulness is due to my two cousins, Noah and Rose, and their kindness!

They entertained Simon and Annestelle during a great portion of our stay.

The pictures below are from our Sunday hike at Spider Creek!

Noah, Rose, Simon & Annestelle before we went down the hill to the creek.

Rose carrying Annestelle back up the hill. Noah & Simon are already far up the hill there in the background.

Thanks Noah and Rose! You are two of the most special kids I know!!!

Happy Hobbies!

My New Purse

2009-08-10T19:41:00.003-04:00

While I was at Aunt Mary's I made this purse!

This is the bird-watcher messenger bag from the book, The New Handmade by Cassie Barden
It is the perfect pattern!

Aunt Mary had the perfect fabric too...

Don't you just love it when someone knows what you like before you even do?

Happy Hobbies!

First Horseback Ride in WV.

2009-08-07T15:30:00.000-04:00

Uncle Frank saddled up one of the horses for the little peeps to ride...

Annestelle

Simon

Horse chatting!

Such a joy to watch them taking in new experiences!

Happy Hobbies!

Quilting With Aunt Mary's Professional Machine....

2009-08-06T20:58:00.003-04:00

Remember those blocks I started HERE last February?

Mary and I put those together last week and added some borders.

We worked together on her new long arm...

working on the borders

quilting the blocks

more of the blocks

I'm pretty much thinking I'm never going to want to quilt on my regular machine again.

sigh.....

I still have the binding to add to this quilt... soon...

Happy Hobbies!

Here in WV!

2009-07-23T23:05:00.002-04:00

The little people and I are down in WV visiting with Aunt Mary and her family...

No pictures, because.... um... well....

just haven't taken any!

Been having fun...

Made a purse.

Putting together a quilt.

Going to quilt that quilt on Aunt Mary's Gammill.

Oh... can't wait!

Hoping to make a few other things too!

The little people have met the chickens, barn cat & horses, and have been swimming & fishing.

We're hoping for a hike, horse back ride and whatever other adventures come our way!

Be back at HobbyHouse the beginning of the week!

Happy Hobbies!

The Library... Yes, really a post about the library!

2009-07-16T14:32:00.003-04:00

Who me? Go to the library? What?

What about the coffee and endless magazines?

What? The library?

That has been me for the last 10 or so years...

Why go to the library when you can go to Barnes & Noble?

How wrong I was!

REALLY WRONG!

My friend Jen was over here about a week or so ago and somehow we got to chatting about the library. She explained how she just gets online, picks out the books she wants, places a hold on said books, and then waits for a call from the library informing her that the books are at the local branch ready for pick up!

Ahhh.... the convenience of it all....

Guess how many times I've been to the library to pick up books during the last week? 3 times! Walk in, pick up, leave! It is a lovely stack I've been studying! It is a stack full of sewing and knitting inspiration!

Why didn't anyone tell me this secret before? What are your library habits?

Happy Hobbies!

A New Banner.... Finally!

2009-07-15T14:00:00.002-04:00

I've been on this little blogging adventure for right around 2 years now and I have finally created a new banner (that fits).

I enjoy many blogs and am always impressed by the beautiful banners and the frequency by which some wonderful bloggers change their banners. I tried to change my banner once... I was able to get a picture in the space, but couldn't make it fit the space provided.

Turns out I'm not as technically challenged as I thought!

I used a tutorial from V and Co.

My thanks to her!

This photo was a collaboration by HobbyHubby and me. We set up the quilt, the felted bag, and the knitting in progress right out in the herb garden between some basil and some lavender. (I have so many things to learn about photography!) I can't believe how easy it was to work with Adobe Photoshop to change the dimensions and add text to create the banner. I definitely have room for improvement, but I think it's a start!

What do you think? Go ahead, give me the good, the bad and the ugly comments!

Happy Hobbies!

Under Construction!

2009-07-11T23:38:00.001-04:00

Just giving my space a little make over!

I'll be finished soon!

Happy Hobbies!

Things making me happy this morning....

2009-06-06T09:30:00.003-04:00

Hurray for Saturday!

My list:

the little people laughing
HobbyHubby returning from his trip
running
the shining sun and blue sky
gardening
planning our weekend

Happy Hobbies!

Get Away Quilting

2009-06-04T15:01:00.002-04:00

Last weekend I met my best friend in Syracuse for a weekend of quilting.

Our goal was to make quilts for her twin girls....

She is relatively new to quilting so even more fun!

Here are some of the blocks we made...

Here is a picture of the pattern...
A bit of our workspace...

I'd say we were a bit ambitious for the time allotted!

It was wonderful just to get to visit over a few meals and chat about

our little peeps and sew into the night...

She is going to work on the rest of the piecing and

our hope is that we will get together in the fall to do the actually quilting!

Happy Hobbies!

My biker Peeps...

2009-06-03T14:58:00.000-04:00

Thought you might enjoy a link to a post about my little biker peeps!!

Check out the link to

Century Cycles Blog

Happy Hobbies!

Instead of Blogging

2009-06-02T14:25:00.003-04:00

May was a very busy month and I just couldn't seem to fit in blogging time!

Instead of blogging, I..

helped with the school auction
ran the Mother's Day 5k
went on a field trip with Simon's Kindergarten class
saw Simon graduate from Kindergarten
helped Annestelle deal with pneumonia
made a trip to Akron to celebrate my brother-in-law's birthday
went to the end of year conferences for the little peeps
enjoyed the first week of summer break with the little peeps
met my best friend in Syracuse for a quilting getaway to work on quilts for her girlies
put in a garden
cleaned the deck
cleaned my carpets
cleaned out my closet
read ALLOT

I didn't manage any time for

knitting
finishing any quilting projects of my own
doing the other HUNDRED things on my list!

Welcome June!

Welcome Summer Break!

HobbyMommy's back and I'm going to challenge myself to a post a day for the rest of the month...

I'm looking forward to hearing from you all soon as I've missed you!!

Happy Hobbies!!!

Tea for two...

2009-04-22T13:25:00.003-04:00

and a whole lot of happy girl friend chatter!

A bit of chit about

quilting,

sewing,

fabric,

patterns,

and some chat about

yarn,

knitting,

more patterns.

Some cinnamon tea

and some lovely blueberry pound cake

(made by my guest).

Scrumptious!

Don't forget the show and tell

of works-in-progress.

A bit of lunch.

More happy chatter!

We call that Well-Being-Wednesday!

Happy Hobbies!

1-2-3-Go...

2009-04-17T20:18:00.005-04:00

I love the Quilts and More magazine and saw the current issue advertised in another of my quilting magazines prior to its release! I fell in love with the purse on the cover immediately. So off I went in search of the issue... I'll spare you the details of magazine hunt and just get right to the purse...
The pattern, called 1-2-3-Go, was pretty easy to follow and quick to put together. I spent about 3 hours from start to finish, after I found just the right fabric. The fabrics are scraps from a quilt my mom started last year. I'm quite pleased to have them reinvented into this happy purse!
Some staff at the local Jo-Ann Fabrics recognized my purse from the magazine cover and made a big fuss! Well, isn't that good for a girl's self-esteem?

Happy Hobbies!

The Cozy is Finished... Finally!

2009-04-06T21:31:00.003-04:00

I finally finished the cozy about 2 weeks ago,

weaved all the yarn ends in last week,

and washed and blocked it last Friday...

Blocked and drying.

The pattern up close.

I'm so pleased with my first lace pattern;

even if it was a 10 month project!

Happy Hobbies!

Cutting and piecing....

2009-03-30T20:56:00.002-04:00

Back to work on my quilt...Cutting...
and piecing...

Happy Hobbies!

Fortune Cookies

2009-03-23T13:50:00.004-04:00

Yes, this picture is mighty blurry!

I made these happy little fortune cookies last week in about 15 minutes.

I used a pattern from CraftSanity and printed the fortunes from http://www.chinese-fortune-cookie.com/fortune-cookie-ideas.html.

The fortune cookies made for a fun little ice breaker for dinner out with a new group of girlfriends! These ladies are a fun group! Loads of laughter!

HAPPY HOBBIES!

FKO- Finished Knitted Object

2009-03-16T21:28:00.005-04:00

I finished my Noro Cabled Purse last week,

blocked it over the weekend,

and added the button tonight!

As evident in the lower right corner, I missed a cable,
but decided the mistake adds some character.

Besides, I refused to rip it back for correction.

I decided to use it to hold my crochet hooks and

a few of my other knit and crochet notions

(per a pal's suggestion).

I think it will be a lovely addition

to my knitting basket!

Happy Hobbies!

All things knitty....

2009-03-11T08:00:00.008-04:00

...in my happy little basket.

I've noticed lately that my basket has been near as I make my way through each day, settling with it into the various nests about my home.

The lovely pink alpaca silk cozy less than a skein away from finishing, the little Noro cabled purse in need of a crocheted finish, 2 skeins of tweed intended for some Dashing mitts for HobbyHubby, and a copy of Knitscene with endless possibilities keeping me constant company.

What motivation for getting my daily chores accomplished!

Happy Hobbies!

Slippers

2009-03-10T15:00:00.001-04:00

I got the pattern for these slippers from Angry Chicken.

As with most of the clothing I attempt, I couldn't seem

to get it right on the first try, or the second try.

Third time is a charm.

I was careful to follow the pattern directions

and seam allowances, but I ended up having to adjust the pattern

more than once as I over-adjusted it at first!

My feet are really happy in these slippers!
I think I've worn them every day since and I can
see that some of my seasonal scraps are going to make
some lovely seasonal slippers.
I did make a few changes to the supplies.
I used that grippy stuff (love that really technical term) from JoAnn's on the
bottom and then added batting in between the bottom
and the lining so that I wouldn't feel the bumps from
the grippy stuff!

Oh, and I must say that I really do love the fold over elastic.

Happy Hobbies!

Softies

2009-03-09T15:00:00.001-04:00

Last weekend the little people decided

they wanted to make some softies.

They constructed their patterns,

picked out their fabrics & notions,

and I got sewing!

The robot leprechaun named Pink Neck

Teddy Jr. designed by Little Mr.

Happy Hobbies!

Road Trip: Quilt Love on the Way Home

2009-03-06T15:00:00.003-05:00

The Woolen Willow

This was a fabulous stop on our journey home.

This shop was in the process of building/expanding

and so I didn't take any pictures.
This shop was fantastic.

Imagine a quilt shop with the usual quilting fabric...

Add in a great selection of wool...

Wool on the bolt, wool kits, plaid wool...

wool love!

Then add in a great

selection of yarns and patterns.

We loved this shop and were

planning on stopping on the next trip to WV.

I purchased a little wool kit (check out the birthday kit on this page).

I bought a piece of green plaid wool to make a purse.

I found some lovely guitar fabric and some bugs

playing instruments for my little peeps.

I also found a Christmas jelly roll for the Christmas

quilt I will make at some point.

With the buggy fabric I made Little Miss
a backpack for her violin binder and lesson books.

I re-purposed some wool from a skirt for the bottom, and used some corduroy form a pair of pants for the panel with the embroidered name and for the straps.

The girlie loves it!

She tried it out today when we went to her violin lesson!

Happy Hobbies!

Road Trip: Knitting on the Go

2009-03-05T15:00:00.003-05:00

I worked on this hat, a late Christmas present for

my brother-in-law (shame on me),

while on the way to WV.

I finished it while relaxing at my aunt's!

HobbyHubby delivered it last weekend and it fit perfectly!

Happy Hobbies!

Road Trip: Shopping Day, Knitting Shop

2009-03-04T22:03:00.003-05:00

The aunties surprised me with a stop

at the Knit 'n Hook Yarn Shop.

This is a nice little yarn store in Huntington,

with the sweetest owner!

I didn't purchase any yarn, but did buy these two patterns.

I've since set to work on a purse from the Ann Norling pattern
using some Noro that had I in my yarn basket.
I'm enjoying the cables.

Happy Hobbies!

Road Trip: Shopping Day, Second Quilt Shop

2009-02-26T20:18:00.004-05:00

Quilts by Phyllis

The aunties after our purchases!

Quilts by Phyllis was another great shop!

It was very bright and full of many samples!

Lots of Moda love inside!

Squares from fabrics purchased from Phyllis,
completed on quilting day!
(I forgot to take pictures of the jelly rolls!)
Basically I fell in love with this line!
I can finally see the future of my home interior!

More squares and the border prints too!

Happy Hobbies!

Road Trip: Shopping Day, First Quilt Shop

2009-02-25T14:10:00.010-05:00

W V Quilts

The shop has a WONDERFUL selection of fabrics

and patterns, and occupies a generous space!

A table of jelly rolls....

Loads of fat quarters.

This is Michelle, the very kind owner of the shop!

We shopped around for a bit and then Michelle said we could go into the back room!

Back room?

This room is filled with fabric samples for purchase by the pound!

Yes I said, "BY THE POUND."

See those samples?

And these samples?
Many samples.

You can just browse around and pick what you want.

There was an abundance of batiks.

Look at all of that pink raspberry happiness!

I purchased this 3 pounds of samples.

I chose 10 sets of the above 8 fabrics.

For around $15 I have enough to make a quilt top!

Have any pattern ideas?

Happy Hobbies!

Road Trip

2009-02-24T13:53:00.005-05:00

Valentine's Day weekend I headed to West Virginia

for a weekend with three of my aunties!

It was a lovely time!

Our weekend jaunt included some great meals,

fantastic shopping, quilting, knitting and even a horseback ride!

Stop back and I'll share the details during the next few days.

Happy Hobbies!

Finding the Simple

2009-01-31T19:41:00.004-05:00

I am at the end of the first month of the new year and

I find myself obsessed with eliminating clutter.

CLUTTER:

chaos, confusion, disorder, jumble, muddle, rummage

Clutter both surrounds and pervades me.

What happens when the clutter is gone?

When I take care of it all?

What is my goal in DECLUTTERING?

I realize I'm after a simple life.

SIMPLE:

plain, quiet, straightforward, uncomplicated

With each bit of sorting and donating I feel free

and closer to the simple.

I gave up my job recently and again I feel free:

the pace of our life has slowed.

Amazing how a less stressed mommy makes for happier little people.

Happier little people make everything easier!

Time once again to focus on nurturing family and building friendships.

I've been busy finding the simple through my decluttering efforts and

making room to dive back into my hobbies guilt free!

I look forward to again enjoying the process of each project,

rather than focusing on the end result, only to rush to the next thing!

Happy Hobbies!

Winter Inside & Out...

2009-01-21T14:02:00.006-05:00

Keeping my eyes on the snow that continues to fall and temperatures that continue to dip below zero, I pulled out the winter decorations last week to bring winter inside.

I keep the candles lit and it is oh so cozy...

All of these painted items are thing my mom painted for me over the years.

The wall hanging is a gift from Auntie Z from several Christmases ago.
Happy Hobbies!

Please welcome...

2009-01-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

my gal pal Ali to blogland!

She made an appearance here on my blog in November of 2007!

Please visit her at A Project to Do to see what she's up to!

Happy Hobbies!

Book Club

2009-01-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

Simple Mom is offering a practical book club featuring six practical books for 2009 and I'm quite happy to be participating. Check out the current selection YOUR MONEY OR YOUR LIFE.

Happy Hobbies!

More knits...

2009-01-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

Another set of Fetching Gloves to be exact...

I'm using Rialto Aran from Debbie Bliss.

Happy Hobbies!

Christmas knits...

2009-01-06T12:00:00.002-05:00

for the little people...

Pink Alpaca for Little Miss!

I gave it to her and then she saw the book, Knit One, Embellish Too, that Auntie B. gave me for Christmas! Little Miss decided she needed a snow flake and a tassel just like page 72! What could I do, but try something new? This great book includes great ideas for the embellishment challenged like me. I'm sure I'll be sharing more of these projects soon!

Little Mister loves his hat with the self-striping yarn and he informed me later that he was thinking he needed a new hat to match his brown coat. He has since requested a scarf to match!

Happy Hobbies!

Secret Santa Christmas Swap

2009-01-05T19:28:00.005-05:00

I received my swap package in the mail several weeks before Christmas and patiently waited until Christmas morning. My Secret Santa painted me a lovely plate and also included some fun Christmas decorations and chocolate ornaments. I'm posting my 'not so great' photo below, but you can see a much better picture by going HERE! Neither photo does the plate justice!

Thank you so much Trashalou for the lovely gifts and being my partner!

Thank you Chookyblue for hosting this fun swap!

Happy Hobbies!

***UPDATE***

My gal pal Ali asked what I sent for the swap... it completely slipped my mind to post that, so I"m giving you the link to the gift. It is the same as the note taker I previously gave as a birthday gift... see MONDAY BITS from November. A little birdy told me!!

Happy Hobbies!

15 Years...

2008-12-31T16:11:00.003-05:00

It is our 15th Anniversary here at the HobbyHouse.

I think I have the best husband in the world and

am ever thankful for the wonderful life and love we share!

My mother painted this lovely Bride's Box for me as a bridal shower gift and it is one of my favorite treasures. It has a home on my dresser and is filled with wedding goodies... invitations, RSVP cards, the guest book, the bride and groom cake topper, my garter, and the wedding announcement from the newspaper.The box sides are lettered with

"When two fond hearts as one unite, the yoke is easy, the burden light."

I think we live it!

Happy New Year & Happy Hobbies!

A quick note to say...

2008-12-18T20:15:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!

I'm just filled with things to blog about

but my time is limited due to LIFE!

My last official day of work is December 23rd.

I'm working hard to get everything caught up so my

replacement can step right in for a smooth transition.

My Little Miss is battling 2 ear infections.

My Little Mr. is in a school performance.

There are still some Christmas things to accomplish!

I'll be back after Christmas filled with New Year cheer!

In the meantime:

May God bless you and keep you safe,

and fill your season with comfort and joy!

Merry Christmas!

Hello there...

2008-12-04T17:00:00.003-05:00

I'm here, really I am...

It does seem to me like I've been away for such an extended time.

Things here at the hobby house have been... shall we say, "infected." We have had a mutant germ lurking for the last bit knocking each of us down in our own special way. I'll spare you the details, but know there was a general sense of misery and antibiotics have become our new best friends! My aunt kindly delivered a Thanksgiving meal to us and we so appreciated the privilege of eating in our jammies and following the meal with naps.

I have been busy knitting the last few days... A girl must be doing something as Christmas is fast approaching! I have also spent some of my time shopping online in order to avoid the crowds. LL Bean, Etsy, Barnes & Noble, and Life is Good are my current sites of choice.

I'll set you up with some knitting pictures soon!

Happy Hobbies!

Monday bits...

2008-11-17T16:37:00.003-05:00

Little Mr. Man and I spent some time this morning watching the birds since he was home from school with a nasty little cold.

The birds really are quite lovely against the white snow!

This picture doesn't do the birds any justice, but isn't there something about that gray?

This pair of fingerless mitts is on it's way to a best friend in Massachusetts.

Happy Belated Birthday E!

More of these are in the works...

I just started another pair over the weekend.

Christmas is coming!

This little note taker was delivered to another birthday girl this morning!

Happy Birthday J.!

My aunties suggested the little felt bird on the bottom.

Isn't helpful to get a few more pair of eyes to point out what should be obvious?

Happy Hobbies!

Bits and Pieces...

2008-11-11T08:40:00.005-05:00

My Status:

I recently resigned from my job (that I love) and am so very happy with the decision I made. However, I will continue to work until my replacement is hired and trained. Hopefully sooner rather than later! My hope is to have most of December free for enjoying the Christmas preparations and last minute gift making, but I'll happily go with whatever happens. Regardless, I'm making plans for the future including getting back on a regular schedule for home-keeping, mothering and hobbying. At this point all of those things are being handled in an exhausted haphazard manner and I feel as if I'm riding on a roller coaster in Chaos Land!

Progress:

I'm about 10 rows from finishing the second "fetching" glove. I'll give a peek of the completed project in a day or so. I completed another note taker for my sister-in-law's birthday. I made some improvements as you can see below.

Weather:

After spending Saturday afternoon taking care of some of the outdoor fall chores, we woke up to this on Monday morning. My little people thought it was "soooo beautiful...." It really is but I wasn't prepared to get the rest of the winter gear out yet!

Happy Hobbies!

An afternoon outside...

2008-11-09T11:05:00.006-05:00

Saturday:

The sky was a nice mix of gray.

The little people were busy raking leaves.

HobbyHubby was busy raking too!

I worked at cutting back all of my herbs.

(something I should have done a month ago)

Today we went to church and are keeping cozy inside.

Happy Hobbies!

More Blogs...

2008-11-01T11:32:00.000-04:00

I'll update this list from time to time. Please feel free to leave me a comment making recommendations! I love to be inspired by other bloggers.

A couple whiles
a friend to knit with
A Very Mary Design
AJ Quilts
Allsorts
Anny Purls
Autie's Quaint Quilts
Bits of Life
Blue Moon River
Buny Tales
CraftSanity
Craftygirl
Crazy Mom Cooks
Creative Juice Studios
Cultured Purl
Dances with Wool
Felt like Knitting
Fluffy Flowers
French Knots
have you any wool?
i have to say...
Katie's Beading Blog
kirstencan
Knitspot
Life at AJ's
Little Busy Bee
Mary Lee Illustration
MOONSTITCHES
My Zoe Bug
OH NO IT'S THE FRO
Sarah P. dot
Simply Sewn
splityarn
sulu-design
the stitching room
The Wooden Spool
tiny happy
Wee Wonderfuls
yarnstorm

Per Her Request

2008-10-26T15:31:00.002-04:00

"A purple dinosaur with green spots and blue spikes, Mommy."
No perfect, but complete.
A three hour sewing session finished just in time to attend "Zoo Boo" last night.
I guess I can't say I don't make costumes anymore!

Happy Hobbies!

The First Note Taker

2008-10-20T19:45:00.002-04:00

I can definitely see room for improvement on this.

I'll probably piece the front section for future

note takers to add a bit more interest to the outside.

This was a gift for my husband's aunt and she loved it!

The pattern can be found here.

Happy Hobbies!

Cables and a Tiny Tale of Dinosaurs

2008-10-17T21:26:00.003-04:00

I did it!

Cables are so much easier than I thought.

I know, I know, my pictures don't really show them all that well.

The finished project will photo better!How funny is this?

We tucked the little people in and came into the hall to see some of our friends heading out!

Wonder where Mama Dino is taking Baby shopping?

Target? The mall? It must be Barnes & Noble.

Oh to be a 5 year-old!

Happy Hobbies!

Getting the Hobby Groove Back!

2008-10-16T14:30:00.003-04:00

Picking out patterns from these!

Thinking that Christmas is coming!

Starting this bag with yarn from my stash.
(A little knit-a-long with some work gals. )

Making progress on the cozy I started so many weeks ago.

Finally making this note taker from Pink Chalk Studio.

Fabrics from my stash.

More note taker fabrics options...

Making my first costume since a pre-made dinosaur for Little Miss was not to be found!
I was told, "purple dinosaur with green spots and blue spikes" Yes Mam!!

(Thankfully a gal pal was able to locate a pattern from her stash since I couldn't find a pattern anywhere either!)

Many other things on the list to finish and more to start!

Happy Hobbies!

Birthdays!

2008-09-28T14:38:00.001-04:00

Little Miss turned 5 on Thursday!

Poor little thing was sent home from school on Wednesday with a fever that she has had on and off ever since! There she is with her fever!We had a family birthday party for her on Saturday in spite of it!

She loves dinosaurs and enjoyed this cake!

HobbyHubby also celebrated his birthday on Saturday.

The big 37!

Happy Hobbies!

Sad times...

2008-09-17T13:40:00.002-04:00

My mother lost her 3 and 1/2 year battle with cancer.

She fought bravely to the very end with the help of her dear friends, 8 brothers and sisters, 3 children, 8 grandchildren, her father, and her husband.

She was just 59 years old.

She was loved and will be missed.

Please keep my family in your prayers.

Take good care and show your loved ones how much you care.

I'm honored...

2008-09-04T13:37:00.003-04:00

Creative Juice Studios just honored me with this kind award!

You can find her post here.
Thank you CJS!

What motivation to get me back to "hobbying"

as I've been consumed by the "mommying" in my life!

The rules for this award can be found here.

Forgive me!

I can't follow the rules!

My blog roll title says,

"Blogs I'm Loving."

Consider all blogs on the list winners!

Happy Hobbies!

little to report...

2008-09-03T20:13:00.004-04:00

Wish I had something to show you...

but we are heavy into adjustments...

back to school for the little people

and back to 25 hours at work for me...

Tired...

Happy Hobbies!

First day of Kindergarten

2008-08-26T21:57:00.002-04:00

My little Mr. Man went to his first full day of Kindergarten!

He had a wonderful day, but let me tell you...

MY EMOTIONS GOT THE BETTER OF ME!

Enough said!

Happy Hobbies!

Vacation: Just a few more photos...

2008-08-21T21:05:00.005-04:00

I'll end the vacation photos with these last few from HobbyHubby's camera.

It was such a good vacation that I'm having a hard time letting it go!

We always pick a new place for a family photo. We're on a little island.
The little people are happy to play on the last chilly morning.
A view of the cottages from a kayak.

We stayed in the middle cottage.
Another view of the cottages from the point.
The fire ring where we spent each evening with our fellow cottagers.

Their children gave us wonderful violin concerts each night before we all made s'mores.

Essentials loaded. Headed for home!

"Can we come back again Daddy?"

Happy Hobbies!

Vacation: Just the Views!

2008-08-16T22:22:00.003-04:00

These are just some of the reasons I love Georgain Bay!

Sunset!

Afternoon rainstorm.

Morning.

Rock!

Clear clean crisp happy water!

Happy Hobbies!

Vacation- just the little people

2008-08-13T22:03:00.007-04:00

We had an intense desire to stay forever,

but instead returned from Canada late last Saturday afternoon.
It was the most lovely trip and definitely needed for this family.
(My mom ended up hospitalized while we were away, but thankfully is home again! Please keep her and our entire family in your prayers as she continues to fight her illness.)

I'll spend my next few posts sharing some of our trip.

Enjoy!

Little people playing on the rocks:

Happy Hobbies!

Going on vacation!

2008-08-01T22:44:00.004-04:00

The van is packed and we're going north as we did last year!

Take good care while I'm gone!

I'll see you in a week with some vacation pictures

and knitting & spinning progress too!

Have a great week,

and, as always...

HAPPY HOBBIES!

For Little Miss...

2008-07-30T19:10:00.003-04:00

I finished knitting this scarf some time in early June

but still needed to weave in the ends and felt it.

So last night I finally finished it!

I ran it through the Hot/Cold cycle twice last night and

now it is felted to perfection for Little Miss almost 5!

She was pretty pleased with it and it added to the kitty cat's costume!

I'm working frantically on my Cozy.

I was hoping to take it on vacation and actually use it on the cool evenings!

Yeah, well, uh-huh, drat....

I let you know how it goes!

Happy Hobbies!

100th Post Winner!

2008-07-25T12:11:00.002-04:00

Thanks for playing along!

Our lucky winner is Danetta from OH NO It's the FRO!

She's receiving this charm pack of 40 charm squares!

Congratulations!

Happy Hobbies!

Under construction

2008-07-25T09:50:00.002-04:00

Bear with me please... I'm working on a remodel here... Back at you later, with the 100th post winner. Still time to comment so please do...

Happy Hobbies!