Do you know your combination?

notice that the knit stitches
are sitting with the LEFT Leg
facing front, rather than the
traditional RIGHT leg.

Still in limbo .... in between holidays .... in between work and play .... in between painting the kitchen and knitting a sweater for a friend .... leaves much time to ponder ...

i've been asked to help a friend in a pinch.  She needs the back of a sweater knit for her sister.  The back is 17" of straight stockinette stitch.. Knit a row, purl a row, knit a row, purl a row.  Rather mindless - - so of COURSE i said i'd help!  However, in this process i've discovered some new ways to do old things, i.e, tweaking the WAY i knit.  Have you ever heard of combination knitting or of Annie Modesitt?  Have you ever given any thought as to whether you knit Continental style .. or English?

It all boils down to which hand you use to carry your yarn ....   if you use your right hand you are considered to be a "thrower" because you throw the yarn around the needle before knitting the stitch.  However, if you carry the yarn with your left hand your knitting is more of a "pick and pull" style.  When i teach someone to knit i use the English method because it's easier to get the basic premise; however, once you learn how to hold your yarn using your left hand you may find that your speed increases. 

by knitting into the BACK of the stitch
it leaves the new stitch sitting correctly
and ready to be purled on the next row!

There are many variations, i have discovered, on the Continental method, one of which i think i might actually be incorporating into my own style!  I have learned how to tweak my 'purling' rhythm though it leaves my knitted stitches situated differently on my needle.  This can easily be remedied when i knit through the back of the stitch and thus i'm left with a correct orientation for my next purling row.  The following You Tube video is a great demonstration of something new to consider:



Realizing that my knitting can have new 'combinations' has left me wondering about my faith actually!  Rather than just assume that the way i've always done things is still the correct way to DO things, i find if i'm honest with myself, that my faith is actually stronger when things are rough and that my faith wavers, or is even nonexistant, when life seems to be flowing rather smoothly!  There! Confession!  it's easier for me to trust God, to run to Him, to seek His face, to long for His guidance when things are hard to understand, when i am afraid or confused or basically just lost as a goose!  However, why do i need any help from God when life is flowing smoothly, and things make sense and i can pretty  much handle things on my own?  Right?

WRONG!!!! Just think if my Trust was actually MORE consistent .. if i would include Him in ALL the steps of my day rather than just the rough ones!  He promises to guide my path, to be a LIGHT, to be a LAMP.  He longs to be included but is gracious enough to wait until invited!  Combination faith - - on the good days AND the bad days!  What a concept!  and What a Love would result!  What a relationship i could have if i opened my heart and life to Him in every way.  The friendship and love that would grow because i've been willing to reconsider my old habits!  The relationship and wonder; the first love feelings of recognizing that Him and acknowledging Him and acquiesing to His leadership and trusting Him because of His faithfulness!

I'm off to go purl the new way, to knit using some of my old methods but learning to incorporate my newly found discoveries .. and to apply the same mindset to my faith!

the In Between Time

The hussle and bussle of Christmas is over ... and i'm finding myself in that wonderful week of limbo sandwiched between Christmas and New Years .... un-decorating the house, shopping the year end sales (speaking of which, JoAnne's has ALL their yarn on sale!), and trying to enjoy these last days off before school starts back in January.

Starting to think ahead to goals i'd like to accomplish ... reflecting back on the progress and lessons learned from the past 12 months .....  leaves me wanting to go paint my kitchen and ponder on everything .... and while i'm waiting for the paint to dry it's time for some yarn therapy!  sitting and knitting, sitting and searching on ravelry.com ... sitting and actually thinking about gifts for the upcoming year .... feeling the need to clean and declutter EVERYthing .. starting with my yarn stash ... but not stopping until i handle the 'accumulation' in my heart as well.

Anxious thoughts, worries, hurt feelings, bad/bitter memories ... all these things have stored up and are taking up WAY too much space .... time to seize the 'limbo' moments and turn to the Lord's promise of refuge and strength ...

God is our refuge and strength, a VERY PRESENT HELP in need. 

 Ps. 46:1

How blessed are the poeple who know the joyful sound! 

O Lord, they walk in the light of Your countenance.   

Ps. 89:15

Praying that you'll also find some moments of quiet when you will be surrounded by His Presence .. and in that quiet you'll recognize His goodness and see the miracles that He has scattered throughout each and every day.  Whether you are sitting and knitting, sipping a cup of warm tea and soaking in a bubble bath, or sharing lunch with a friend . . .  let this be the year of decluttering ... destashing .... renewing .....  restoring .... recommitting

"Only in returning to Me and resting in Me will you be saved.

In quietness and confidence is your strength." 

Isa. 30:15

the year in Review

it's been almost 12 months now since we first sat down and cast on 35 stitches to start journaling about our year's journey ... in lace!  12 months of yarn overs and slipped stitches, 360+ days of increases and decreases ..... weeks filled with holes made on purpose!   We started the year with a lovely day of snow ... and as the Lord has ordered the days, we'll end the same way!

For the first time in forever (atleast in my book) my family shared a White Christmas ... not exactly a Norman Rockwell painting or anything like that, but there was snow ... falling ... and sticking!  and when we got up on Sunday morning, it was still there!  it snowed on us all the way into church sunday morning ... so much so that once we got there we were told that it was necessary to cancel services because the roads were so icey ... and something about being the church at the top of the hill - - easy to slide down (and into the ditches) but not so easy to get to!!

Don't know that i've ever been 'dismissed' early from church ... but it wasn't hard to find some peace and quiet once home, to reflect on all the many blessings the Lord has showered on me and my family this year ... and what better way to chronicle all this than with a beautiful Fir Cone lace pattern that will forever remind me of the beauty of this weekend .. all the snow ... the freshness ... the new beginnings that He offers each of us ... through the gracious gift of His Son on that first Christmas!

12 months of lace ... just waiting to be blocked and then worn as a gentle reminder of unforgettable favorites ... a warm yet tangible momento, a souvenir, in time capsule form, that will keep the memories of 2010 vivid for quite some time . .

and what better way to encapsulate it all than with a soft edging that will drip from the ends .... a little bit of crochet ... simple chains and slip stitches that serve as the final hug for the year!  It's all posted on the "2010 in Lace"  Tab at the top of the blog .... just make sure to scroll all the way down to the bottom for instructions! 

Thanks so much for sharing the journey ...

Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble,

whatever is right,

whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,

whatever is admirable--

if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--

think about such things.

Phil. 4:8

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to you and your family!

Praying God's richest blessings and great mercy for you

as you share your heart, your yarn and your needles,

one stitch at a time, always mindful of

keeping knit simple!

Merry Christmas my friend!

Ginger

Gratitude . . .



See what happens
when we don't have choir practice?

Life gets busy at this time of year but that's no excuse for not pondering on all the blessings that the Lord has showered on each of us for the past 12 months.  Family, friends, health, happiness, yarn .... all are gifts from God and are not something that i take for granted!  Thank you so very much to my dear friends at Shades Mountain ... to the choir that is truly Family to me .... to the leadership of the Godly men that serve so faithfully and give so much to each of us .... i count it a privilege and joy to sit and worship with each of you on a weekly basis ... to share my life and love with you ... and my knitting, of course! 

Thank you for the generous gift you shared with me .... but thanks even more for the unselfish love you show to me and my family every day of the year.  Thank you for allowing me to hold all these treasures in my heart and to make this a Mary Christmas in the midst of such a Martha mindset!

In the rhythm of the needles there is music for the soul!
Blessings!
Ginger

On the 12th day of Christmas . . .

On the 12th day of Christmas

my True Love gave to me,

12 drummers drumming.

Those 12 drummers are playing a cadence that calls us back to the rhythm of faith that guides our every step.  Regardless of the times we may fall out of line, or loose track of where we've been, we find it much easier to lend an ear to the rhythmic flow, step back in and quickly reassemble, based on the very foundations of faith that we've learned from those early childhood days, ingrained deep within our souls and second nature to every choice we make, every day we live.

The Apostles Creed . . 12 statements of faith . .
an established tempo that congretates us into one family

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

2) I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.

3) He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary.

4) He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell [the grave]. 5) On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 

6) He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

7) I believe in the Holy Spirit,

8) the holy catholic Church,

9) the communion of saints,

10) the forgiveness of sins,

11) the resurrection of the body,

12) and life everlasting.

Knowing what you believe is a defining moment . . some people spend their entire life being a 'seeker' ... weighing all the options, trying new things to see if maybe THIS is the thing that will work, the Thing that will bring peace or direction or hope or forgiveness, when like we've heard for years, Jesus is the Reason for the Season.  Though 'commercial' in nature, the very TRUTH of such a statement resonates to the very core of who we are.

We've spent the past 12 days looking at all the 'gifts' we've received from our True Love .... why not remember these new discoveries with a Christmas Ornament to commemorate things . . . i LOVE a tree that full of memories . . ornaments that tell stories as the lights twinkle around them and you stop and ponder, reliving those moments of significance . . why couldn't this lacey little sphere serve as one of those landmark times in your heart?  or why not make several and share a bit of Christmas sparkle when you give them as gifts - - it would be a great way to also explain the lessons you've learned about this new/old Christmas song!

My favorite Christmas ornament, however, is this precious cupcake pattern.  Why not have a Birthday Party for Jesus?  Knit just one and display it on a beautiful plate, prominently sitting out for all to see.  Or knit them in several shapes and sizes to serve as hostess gifts, thank you gifts, or yet another way to start the conversation rolling about what your True Love gave to you for Christmas.  Just add sprinkles or cherries on top and you've got the sweetest little reminder . . and before long you'll be humming Happy Birthday in the midst of all the commerical Christmas tunes . .

Merry Christmas!  Happy Birthday Jesus!

on the 11th day of Christmas . . .

my True Love gave to me
11 Pipers Piping

11 ... not 12, but 11 pipers that piped the music and message of a Savior that they knew, up close and personal.  The tune that had been implanted deep within their heart .... a melody that would keep them company on the long walks between the villages, on those lonely nights when others questioned their calling yet they knew in their heart of hearts that Jesus WAS who He said ....

Can you name the original 12  11  - - (Judas isn't counted according to this particular song!) ....

Simon Peter and his brother Andrew,
James son of Zebedee, and his brother John,
Philip and Bartholomew,Thomas and Matthew the tax collector,James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus,
Simon the Zealot [and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him]

Men who knew first hand what Jesus' voice sounded like, what things made Him laugh, what things brought Him to tears of compassion or of sorrow.  Men who ate dinner with Him, shared lenghthy journeys and boat rides,  who sat under His leadership and teaching.  Men who experienced a true career change ... and were never the same.  Men who were commanded to be fishers of men, to cast a net that would serve as a Hope and Anchor for those who surrendered to the capture and relinquishment of their own lives in order to find Light and Life through following Jesus Christ. These men KNEW Jesus, and their testimonies were simply a continuation of His final instructions to them ... to Go and Make Disciples.

Have you ever seen your knitting as a venue that God can use to make disciples?  An opportunity to share with someone what your faith in Christ means .. and could mean to them as well?  Or, do you realize that with the gift of your knitting you could say Thank You to someone who is in the ministry, whether by vocation (your church) or simply by daily obedience as they work along side you each day at your desk . .   Isa. 52:7 says "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"  What better way to express your appreciation this Christmas season than with the gift of some warm and wooly slippers  for those 'beautiful feet' that have worked so diligently this year?

In Matthew 28:19 Jesus commanded us to "Go and make disciples".   Well, you and i both know you can't "GO" without a great little purse to hold all phone and debit card and keys and Dr. Pepper Chapstick and your New Testament while you are "GOing" .... so why not say thanks to those you know that GO with a cute little felted tote, just right for tootling around town.  Or for the young at heart, what about this little carry bag that would work up so quick and be so cute when those sweet feet are out sharing the Good News of Christmas.

on the 10th day of Christmas . . .

my True Love gave to me ...

10 Lords a leaping . . .

 

did you know that Leaping Lords were 'hired' entertainers for the kings' court -  professional dancers that performed in between the courses of a feast.  their common appearance during their time made for an easy correlation for the new, young Christians to remember yet another important aspect of their faith .... the 10 Commandments, as recorded in Exodus 20.

1.You shall have no other gods before Me.
2.You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.
3.You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name.
4.Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
5.Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.
6.You shall not murder.
7.You shall not commit adultery.
8.You shall not steal.
9.You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
10.You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.

the 10 commandments are not a list of Do's and Don'ts designed to make life miserable .. or impossible!  perhaps it's yet another "perspective" lesson in which we, as mortals, are confronted with the very core of our selves ...  we can fall prey to the 'victim' side of things, where Satan tries to seep into our minds so that we feel more like failures rather than conquerers  OR

we can see the Commandments as a Mirror that reveals our weaknesses based on our sinful nature, desires and choices BUT upon closer inspection into that mirror we see, due in part to a broken and contrite spirit, that we have the Beauty of a Savior standing right over our shoulder ... casting an admiring glance of reassurance that He can and will and wants to extend grace, mercy and even forgiveness for our less than stellar choices ... for the selfish desires we so often succomb to .... and yet He so willingly offers help, assistance, reassurance, forgiveness . . .

this time of year often brings tension as time seems to be crowded by more and more 'things' .... attitudes get shifted far from center, desires and affections are torn and/or questioned based on gifts given or received ... we easily grow disillusioned - - the more we do, the more behind we get ... the less appreciated we feel . . the more overworked we are . . why is it that "they" seem so much better off?  why do "they" have all the good things and i'm just sitting over here doing without?   busy = lack of focus = OUT of focus = LOSS of REALITY! 


SOLUTION:  Back to Basics!   Dirty dishes are ALWAYS finding their way back to my kitchen sink ... so spending some time in front of the soap suds helps to slow me down .. and remind me of all the blessings i have right now .. today .. that fill my life and my heart! 

soft and soapy circles

 or why not  Run a tub full of bubbles and hot water, and slip into a few moments of quiet so that you can ponder on all the ways the Lord has made your life free from the law of sin and death and Old Testament rules and regulations. 



And  Who can turn down a warm cup of tea?  Why not tuck this precious little hand knit washcloth into a beautiful mug overflowing with handmade soaps and tea bags ... invite a friend over for a

quiet afternoon to just sit and knit ...

0r perhaps share some precious Christmas memories ... or .... just find your way to your favorite rocking chair and sit simply ... quietly ... expectantly .... to enjoy the solace of a few moments of solitude, reflecting on the True gift of Christmas, the bondage that His birth broke ... and the redemption He is waiting to offer to you.

on the 9th day of Christmas . . .

On the 9th day of Christmas

my True Love gave to me

nine ladies dancing

the "art" of dancing ... when done properly, appears to be effortless ... feet that seem to be a mere extension of a heart that has connected to a sequence of notes and then - spontenaity results . . you can't tell where the music starts or ends .. the entire body becomes a fluid and poetic paradigm of melody and harmony . . .

and as such, these ladies are a perfect illustration of the fruit of the Spirit . . the evidence of a secure and strong attachment to The Vine .... fruit which is produced, not because it was the "branch's" idea or suggestion, but because of the relationship to the Vine that contains the seeds to life .. and productivity ... and ultimately to being a true expression and representation of Him.  Fruit, just like a dancer's feet, bears a direct correlation to the life/music that flows from the Vine (dancer's heart) .... so i'm left with the question:  is my life a true resemblance and taste of what the Lord would look like to others ... do they see Him when they encounter me and the way that i live and interact with others that cross my path?   What DOES my fruit basket look like?

Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness,

Faithfulness, Gentleness, Meekness and Self Control

LOVE

 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.

Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.

1 John 4:16 

*

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

JOY

The joy of the Lord is your strength. 

Nehemiah 8:10

PEACE

 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith,

we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 5:1

*

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him,

so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

LONGSUFFERING/PATIENCE
We are strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power,

unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.

Colossians 1:11

*

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.

Ephesians 4:2

GENTLENESS/KINDNESS

 We should live in purity, understanding, patience and kindness;

in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God;

with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left.

2 Corinthians 6:6-7

GOODNESS

Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling,

and fulfill all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power

Thessalonians 1:11

*

For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth

Ephesians 5:9

FAITHFULNESS

O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name;

for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth

Isaiah 25:1

*

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit

in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

Ephesians 3:16-17

MEEKNESS

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual,

restore such an one in the spirit of meekness;

considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted

Galatians 6:1

*

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.

Ephesians 4:2

TEMPERANCE/SELF CONTROL

But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue,

to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance,

 to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.

2 Peter 1:5-7

living a life that is a genuine reflection of Him ... a lifelong goal, an eternal promise that He will complete and fulfill .... and everyday opportunities to demonstrate the difference He makes ... i can do that with my knitting  by always being mindful of the needs of others.  We've found patterns to share hats with those in need, scattered sachets around so that the fragrance of friendship gently fills a room, or purse, or drawer.  Bracelets slip over a wrist and adorn the wearer, reminding them that they have been thought about and prayed for throughout the day.  What about a more "practical" gift .... true "domesticity" from your needles:  Coasters! 

looks like the basic
washcloth pattern to me

Mug Mats

On first glance they are quite utiliarian in appearance, but should NOT be dismissed as non-functional or unappreciated. Basic can be beautiful as this simple pattern will demonstrate.  Or, you could always call them by a fancy name such as Mug Mats!  Doesn't "Fancy" usually cost more yet serve the same purpose?  it's all in the perspective AND the presentation! 

Mug Rugs

Speaking of Fancy, what about Fancy AND Seasonal ! 



small = coasters,
large = trivet

and for those extra warm items in the kitchen you could always consider this perfect use for  Wool and your Washing Machine!  Did you know that Wool is antimicrobial AND that it purports to be self extinguishing, making it an excellent choice in the kitchen.  (it would also be a good reason to try your hand at needle felting, just in case you were looking for a fun and yet justifable excuse . . i mean . . reason!)

Praying that today your life and your needles will be a beautiful taste of Him ... that regardless of the role, the servant heart and compassionate awareness of others will be a vibrant demonstration, a spontaneous antiphony that leaves a lingering melody when you cross paths ....  whether He calls you to be fruit salad, fruit preserves, fresh fruit in the bowl or still fruit ripening on the Vine, i pray that you'll know in your heart that 'in the rhythm of the needles there is music for the soul'.  Let your needles dance ... let your light so shine . . . that they may see the good works of your Father.     "I am the Vine, you are the branches.  apart from Me you can do nothing."

on the 8th day of Christmas . .

my True Love gave to me
    8 maids a milking . .
       7 swans a swimming . . .
           6 geese a laying . . .
               5 Golden rings . . .
                  4 Calling Birds . . .
                      3 French Hens . .
                          2 Turtle Doves,
                            and a Partridge
                                in a Pear Tree.






How do you condense to teachings of Jesus into a nutshell?  Just exactly how many verses in a song does it take to accomplish such a task?  Well today, the simple phrase "8 maids a milking" brings to mind an entire "Sermon on the Mount" that the Lord delivered to a multitude of followers, passersby, disciples, children ... His audience was diverse, His message was straight foward and His impact still lingers.

The Gospel of Matthew records this sermon in chapters 5-7 and the 1st portion of this section has often been referred to as the BEE Attitudes!  Jesus shares with those around Him about the outward 'indicators' of those whom profess to be associated with Him - their lives should reveal a distinct difference from others - they have a Hope in a future that will be shared with Him, they live and study as a disciple of His, learning about Him, longing to be like Him, and anticipating a future with fellow believers in His kingdom.

Jesus shares 8 "Blessed" descriptions . . and first and foremost you have to realize that "blessed" does not carry the same connotation that we, today, often associate with it.  Blessed doesn't necessarily mean that you've won the lottery and will be receiving lots of extra "perks" ...  it does not stand for financial or material gain - though it could . .  a more accurate understanding of "Blessed" when pronounced by Jesus is that it describes a joy and peace from within that is the result of a sincere relationship with Him. The resulting happiness is a deeply rooted and securely established peace that comes from knowing that you are His child ... and can rest in that knowledge (some may actually giggle on the outside as well . . just depends on how outgoing you are in the process!) ... :)

Ready for the BEE Atitudes we should all have?

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” 
poor in spirit are those who are humble before God, recognizing they can do NOTHING or have NOTHING to purchase their way into heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
mourning, not just over the bad things that we observe in our lives today, but sincere grief over the lives that are lost and searching for His grace and forgiveness . .

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”
Note to self:  meek does NOT equal weak or wimpy!  True meekness portrays a picture of self-control and gentleness, a life that has submitted to the Lord's leadership and reflects Him.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled”.

who among us does not understand the feelings of hunger or of being thirsty ... and the never ending quest to satisfy that need.  Imagine then, how much stronger the desire is to be in constant pursuit to do the will of our Father . . and His promise to meet our every need!

“Blessed are the Merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
Mercy is True Love that is focused OUTward, always aware of the needs, the hurts, the plight of those less fortunate around them.  Mercy can be graciously extended because this person has an awareness and understanding of the mercy they themselves have received from the Lord, despite their own weakness, failures and/or past sins.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
This person is driven by one thing only and that is to say or do or be whatEVER pleases God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.”
to know God is to know true peace - - and then be able to extend that to others . . to set as your goal and mission the job of restoring balance to a relationship or situation so that it too will reflect the Peace that passes all understanding!

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of justice, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
do you realize that such "suffering" identifies us as a part of His Kingdom?  By living each day with eternity as the goal, any opposition that one encounters will be credited to them when in heaven ...

do you see a basic premise:  the BE Atitudes are very much focused outward on the needs of others.  they are very much servant-based and oriented .. desiring others nuturing over their own. They seek out opportunities to help and yet others are drawn TO them because of the quiet but consistent evidence that their lives and heart demonstrate.


Basic Rolled Brim hat





a great Adult Skull cap pattern

at this time of year it's so easy to get caught up in all the festivities and commercialism and yet it there are so many in the very midst of us who have nothing . . because of hard times or financial set backs, because of bad choices or through no fault of their own ... and if we truly are the hands and feet of Christ then it would only seem true that we also are the yarn and needles of the Lord as well!  Time to apply those BE Atitudes and make some donations to a local shelter ... drop them off at the Children's Home ... or the Children's wing of the hospital ....  Ready to be a busy BEE and make a difference?  Pretty AND practical can exist in the same sentence, so let's sit and knit a batch of hats and scarves that would reflect such a God-inspired attitude. 





a great childrens version



a sweet little lace,
knit flat and sewn up!

The first option can be knit flat or in the round, which ever is easier for you.  Rolled brim is basic and the options are only limited by your imagination and/or your yarn stash!  The 2nd option uses worsted weight yarn, smaller needles to keep things tight and compact and is another great pattern to use as an inspiration . . you supply the creativity!  And don't forget the little ones . .  add earflaps or pompoms to make your own version of fun!  one last final sweet knit - - these little hats would make a precious gift when shared with the babies that visit your church nursery . . or drop off a batch of these along with some of the kids hats at the local elementary school to the counselors office and let them distribute to those families that so quietly but desperately need to know the touch of the Lord .... through yarn and needles.  Throw in a couple of warm scarves and they will be set ... and you will have imitated the BE Atitudes that reflect a heart that belongs to Him! 

on the 7th day of Christmas . . .

My True Love gave to me . .
                          Seven Swans a Swimming .....

swans ..paint a picture of graceful elegance as they float atop the water ... did you know that they can be IN the water and yet, not get wet?  by God's design, they were created and equipped to glide along, often in pairs - sometimes solo, yet ever so gently sweeping through the waves and the weeds, often leaving feather tufts as they swim or waddle  ..  and when their down feathers are grouped together they provide a warmth and covering that we so often sink into - the insulation and security that often envelopes and extends protection and hope.

As His Children we also have been given gifts that allow us to live in the world and yet be distinguished from the world .... gifts from the Holy Spirit that allow us to minister to one another as the Church - - the body of Christ.  Gifts that work just as those goose down feathers - - that cover and protect, that nurture and insulate against the storms of live, that keeps us afloat in the midst of the weeds or the waves we encounter as we walk each day ....  God in His grace, has equipped us in various shapes, forms and fashions with an assortment gifts .... that He designed, not for our own personal gain, but for use among His children.  When you look around you, you'll see friends that have the gift of prophecy ... some have ministering hearts, others are great teachers while some clearly are strong in encouraging others.  You'll notice some people that are gracious givers, not just with their money, but with everything in their lives.  And of course, you know those individuals who are just natural born leaders as well as those behind the scenes people who are so compassionate and servant hearted that their quiet and gentle ways keep them busy ... not keeping records.  (Rom. 12:6-8) 

Finding out where you are 'gifted' is often a life long journey for some .. .and a clear cut route for others.  But being able to share the gift of your knitting is an option for ANYone ....  Why not MAKE the time to sit down with a friend and teach her how to knit!  Buy her her favorite color of yarn and some wonderful bamboo or rosewood needles ... a little simple indulgence that will help keep her inspired ....

Slip the goodies into a fun Christmas mug, tuck in a gift card to your favorite coffee shop and along with an invitation for a time and date to sit and meet . . at this busy time of the year who doesn't apprciate a little time when you 'allow' yourself to slow down for a minute or two (hours) to knit, or LEARN to knit!  we've grown so busy in all our hussle and bussle that we are loosing site of so many simple pleasures . . did you know that there really is an ART to domesticity?  Yes, that's your Word for the Day!  Domesticity is affection for the home and its material comforts.  And learning to knit opens doors - - to slow down, to knit and think/pray for others while your knitting ... to create for your home, to ponder and dwell on all those who will visit or live in your home .... to see a need in those people who don't have a home, but could still benefit from a hand knit garment that conveys warmth and concern ... that becomes a tangible demonstration of the gifts that He has equipped and called us to share.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in

its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do

so as one who speaks the very words of God.

If anyone serves, they should do so with

the strength God provides, so that

in all things God may be praised

through Jesus Christ. To him

be the glory and the power

for ever and ever. Amen. 

I Peter 4:10-11

on the 6th day of Christmas . .

my True Love gave to me

Six geese a laying ....

it's hard for me to imagine that life as i know it now hasn't always been like this! i know, based on science books and history books and stories and tales from past generations, that every day IS a Progressive Day  - - we continue to move forward based on all the lessons we have learned from our past! Things we take for granted and that seem so ordinary today were yet to be dreamed of 15 - 20 - 100 years ago .... but have you considered just how precious the very gift of Sunlight is?  With daylight savings time now in full force i find that the days get darker sooner ... and my mood adjusts to this lack of sunlight as well .... how integral is the very gift of sunlight to my life!

have you ever really pondered on what things were like prior to God's creation of the earth?  in a word:  CHAOS!  EMPTY!  MEANINGLESS!  but when God took control of things, ORDER was restored!  He had a plan . . a vision . . and took practical steps to accomplish His dream (i am seeing some really important and applicable lessons to my own life here!) ...  According to Genesis 1, this was God's To-Do List:

Day 1: The heavens, the earth, light and darkness.

Day 2: Heaven

Day 3: Dry land, the seas, and vegetation.

Day 4: The sun, the moon and the stars.

Day 5: Living creatures in the water, birds in the air.

Day 6: Land animals and people.

No small feat and no unimportant task - He set about to design a perfect setting for each of His children to grow and thrive - to live in conditions that nurtured our very physical needs - light AND dark, so that we can work, play AND rest!  Food AND water, so that we have all the things our body needs (and some of the extras that we may even over-indulge in . . chocolate!) ..... Animals ... for food, for pets, for pleasure (sheep = wool = PERFECT!)  .... Plants . . nutritional ...aesthetic ... This "gift" of 6 days of LIFE - - it's one that could take a lifetime to fully appreciate!  And knowing that God took the day off (note to self!) by resting on the 7th day . . by deliberately making time to look back on what He had done for the week . . i see a Life Lesson for me, no doubt!

New beginnings - - that's kind of how i approach EVERY morning when i look in the mirror!  and what better way to share a small token of love than to knit a little makeup bag that a friend could slip into her purse - - a little "prize" to hold all the essentials of the day.  you DO realize, don't you, that Good Things come in Small Packages, and these little Hugs make quick and easy use of your scraps - - or if you'd like to be indulgent and share one knit with cashmere, the investment would be SO worth it!

Perhaps you've got wool in your stash and you've never tried your hand at felting. This little pattern is a breeze to work up .... knitting and purling for rows, throw it in the washing machine and Voila!  the magic of hot water and soap suds and you've got a very durable, functional and CUTE bag that can be tossed into any purse or suitcase, backpack or front seat of the car ....

Point to Ponder:  today's gift is 6 Geese a Laying ... this does not mean that they were 6 birds all laying around working on their tans or watching ESPN or HGTV ..... this is a gift that is perpetuating ... that is continual .... this is on going and adaptable and designed for YOU at any given point of your day, your week .. your life!  you are never NOT on His mind . . . His Heart ... or His Gift List!

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Genesis 1:1

on the 5th day of Christmas . . .

          my True Love gave to me

FIIIIIIIVE   GOOOOL  DEN RINGS . . . . . .

5 Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which unfolds the story of man's fall from grace. Just think about that .... we have written record, that we can read over and over and over of our selfish selections despite God's grace and favor ... 5 books that record in detail all the bad choices that mankind made ... 5 books FULL of reasons for our True Love to turn His devotion elsewhere ... 5 books brimming with logical explanations as to why He should  love anyone BUT me ....

and yet, we also have 5 books FULL of Redemption's plan, implemented from the very 1st fall .... and consistently documented throughout  the remaining 61 books as well .... each one stating in their own unique penmanship, the Promise of His abiding faith, His undying love and devotion to each of His children.  In our society today we use the ring to symbolize such commitment ... Rings have no beginning and no End, and the Rings He chose to seal His wholehearted loyalty and dedication to each of us has been penned from before time ...and His Promise of an eternal commitment that brings us to Him despite our failings can be read .... can be tucked within our hearts so that any time we can be reminded of His allegiance ..... He's in it for the long haul ... not just when it's convenience for Him .... or me .... but ... forEVER!  (and then some!)

what if i could propose a profitable reason for swatching?  i know, it's hard to imagine, but i do believe i may have stumbled upon a justifiable reason to swatch . . . what about a special, one of a kind bracelet ...or do a "set" of 5 golden rings to share. Visit your local dollar store for a bangle  - - thick or thin ... or perhaps you have some left over from some of your "younger" days and wardrobe choices.

now you see the bottle . . .

. . now you don't!

 i'm not a fan of bangles because i don't like the clanking BUT would definitely be open to using this method with a plastic 2 liter soda bottle .....that's right! an empty plastic bottle could be THE perfectly quiet answer to your 5 golden rings ... and soft and gentle melody of gift giving .....

or, it all else fails, what about a pretty ltitle charm from the craft store or from a special antique boutique and use this i-cord option .... don't be afraid - you've finally got a reason to use those double pointed needles!  and look how soft and sweet ... quick and easy .... this option has the potential to be yet another 5 Gold Ring favorite!  (in fact, you may have so much fun with THIS version that you'll have a necklace before you know it! ... i just don't know the verse for necklaces ... just the 5 gold rings one!)

Did you know that the number 5 represents GRACE throughout the Bible? Grace means favor. But favor has many 'forms' ....  when  Favor is shown to those in misery it is called mercy; favor shared with the poor is called pity; favor given to the suffering is called compassion; when we show favor to the hard to love we call it patience: but favor shown to the unworthy is called  GRACE, and God Himself has set the greatest example of such favor and grace -- He willingly gave His one and only Son to YOU ... and if you think about that,     dwell on it,       just sit and realize that such a gift is favor indeed;  it is truly Divine in its source and in its character.  Man made a willfully bad decision in the very 1st book of the Bible that broke the design for a perfect existence and fellowship with the Father, and for the next 65 books, our True Love has revealed His Grace, lavished His Love and demonstrated His sincere desire to repair and restore a right relationship with Him.

"For sin shall not have dominion over you,
for you are not under law but under grace"
Romans 6:14