Plain and Joyful Living

Little Hearts

2012-02-13T17:40:00.001-05:00

Found this simple pattern here - crocheting up these little hearts is fun - I made a garland with mine but they would also look so cute on a knit hat too.

Re-Evaluating

2012-02-12T16:47:00.002-05:00

In the Tsh Oxenreider's book, Organized Simplicity, she talks of the need to come up with your family's purpose statement. As our family has realized one of our dreams/goals - that of living simply (are we really? - this a work in progress as well) in a rural, affordable location while working, learning, and being together as a family as much as possible - now it seems that it is time to reevaluate where we are and where we would like to go - both as a family unit and individually.

We have been brainstorming and this mission statement is my favorite -

Our purpose is to serve God, family, friends, and neighbors by utilizing our gifts as much as possible.

And then, when reading through Organized Simplicity some more, I re-read the author's definition of simple living as "living holistically with your life's purpose."

Isn't it also true that by using your gifts as you serve others, you will ultimately be serving yourself and when you are following God's purpose for your life then you will find joy.

Has your family come up with a Mission Statement or Family's Purpose Statement?

Images from the Week

2012-02-10T10:43:00.001-05:00

Knitting the Doll ... continued ...

2012-02-09T08:42:00.000-05:00

Here is the first part from yesterday -
If you would like to join along - I am using size 4 needles and worsted weight yarn - a simple natural wool.
Cast on 10 stitches.
Knit into the front and back of each - so there are now 20 stitches.
Purl and then Knit alternating rows (stockinette stitch) until the one leg measures 5 inches long.
Break yarn after finishing a purl row.
On same needle that is holding the first leg, repeat as above for the second leg.
When the second leg measures 5" and you have ended on a purl row -
Next row, knit across all 40 stitches - this will form the body.

***And here is the new part***

Continue knitting in the stockinette stitch for the body for 4 1/4" then decrease for the neck as follows starting on a right side row - Knit 4, knit 2 together, across the row
Next row - purl
Next row - Knit 6, knit 2 together
Next row - purl
Now increase for the head -
Next row - Knit 1, Increase by Knitting and front and back to the end of the row - now there are 44 stitches on your needle
I have 3 inches knit so far for the head and am still working straight but will be doing the decreases soon and will share that next.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Knitting a Doll and Reading about Simplicity

2012-02-08T09:46:00.000-05:00

Finished up knitting a pair of pants for the little doll and have cast on for a larger doll. If you would like to join along - I am using size 4 needles and worsted weight yarn - a simple natural wool.
Cast on 10 stitches.
Knit into the front and back of each - so there are now 20 stitches.
Purl and then Knit alternating rows (stockinette stitch) until the one leg measures 5 inches long.
Break yarn after finishing a purl row.
On same needle that is holding the first leg, repeat as above for the second leg.
When the second leg measures 5" and you have ended on a purl row -
Next row, knit across all 40 stitches - this will form the body.
That is how far I am right now and will share more within the next few days.

With so many recommendations, I purchased a copy of Organized Simplicity and am truly impressed with its content. While I have reduced clutter and thoughtfully consider new purchases, there are so many more areas to consider on the journey of living simply. I hope to share some of these in future posts.

Glass, Paper, Beans is a book I borrowed from the library yesterday. It seems as though it will be quite interesting. A quote from the back of the book, "Glass, Paper, Beans braids the myths, lore, and history of three staples of modern life- coffee, the glass it comes in, and a newspaper - and conjures an unseen world where trade, fetishization, manufacture, and the unknown hands behind that labor converge. A classic work on the economics of everyday life."

My bedtime read with Sarah is now, The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo - hmm.. we seem to be reading lots of books with mice as the main characters lately.

Joining in with Ginny for the weekly yarn along.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Rustic Branch Mug Holder

2012-02-07T09:03:00.000-05:00

Mike came up with this after I requested a mug holder. Just a birch branch with the back side sawed flat to hang against the wall.

Listening to the Super Bowl

2012-02-06T10:31:00.000-05:00

With television, we listened to the super bowl at home, safe and sound as we choose not to have television. Not exactly the outcome most of us had hoped for, although we did have one family member who was very happy.

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Rid Me of Myself

2012-02-03T20:19:00.000-05:00

This is a doodle I made during last Sunday's church service. It has stayed with me all week.

Through each ordinary day, I constantly need to remind myself of this. When thoughts of "I" start creeping in, when the laundry pile doesn't seem to be going down even after doing two loads, or the dishes have piled up on the counter after just washing a sink full, or Emmy slept for only 20 minutes - again - I sing out loud - "Lord, rid me of myself..." over and over again -

these precious gifts He has given me.

Knitting and Reading

2012-02-01T10:08:00.001-05:00

This weekly rhythm is wonderful to keep me on track of my knitting projects and helps motivate me to finish them before I start another - at least most of the time:)

So I am joining in with Ginny again for the yarn along -

I finished the sweater for the little knit doll and have now cast on for some pants. Started knitting up another vest, but this time using size 8 needles and worsted weight yarn. It looks like it should fit a 2 - 3T.
Finally, I am knitting up another hat for a dear blog reader.

While I am still reading Jane Eyre, I have started on a sweet Gladys Taber book, Stillmeadow Daybook and I am reading a biography about Thomas Edison out loud to Abby and Isaac and anyone else within earshot. I sure wish I had enjoyed learning when I was young as much as I do now - so much fun! My hope is that our children also grow up with a life long love of learning.

If you have a moment, please share about your handwork projects and what you are reading and consider joining in with the yarn along.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Making Mozzarella

2012-01-30T16:22:00.000-05:00

I bought this kit quite awhile ago from Urban Cheesecraft just to get started. I am sure it will be less expensive to buy the individual ingredients in the future, but I am happy to be finally attempting.

The kit came with citric acid, rennet, cheese salt, butter muslin, thermometer, and instructions for ricotta and mozzarella.

We started out by dissolving 1/4 rennet tablet into 1 cup of cool water.

Then dissolved 1 1/2 teaspoons of citric acid into 1 cup water.

I poured one gallon of raw milk (jersey cows) into a large pot and then you are supposed to add the citric acid solution (we missed reading this part!) and heat to 90 degrees, stirring occasionally.

Then at 90 degrees, we slowly and gently stirred in the rennet solution for 30 seconds. The milk was heated to 110 degrees.

As Abby and I were watching the thermometer reach 109 degrees and nothing was happening, I started to worry. Then all of a sudden, within seconds really, the curds started forming. This is so neat to watch!
We started to wonder before it turned if we had done something wrong and then magic!
Does anyone know the history of cheesemaking? Who first started using rennet? I am going to have to do some research - I am finding the whole process pretty amazing.

We then removed the curds from the whey bath (that is what the water has now become) and heated the whey to 185 degrees. Then we took the pot of the stove and after forming two balls with the curd, we put them in the whey to heat to 135 degrees (when the thermometer is placed in the center of the curd ball).

Next, Abby and Isaac stretched and shaped the cheese after adding 1/2 teaspoon to each ball.

The two vintage pyrex storage containers I bought for $4.00 at a local thrift store make great containers for the finished cheese.

It did come out a little rubbery. Is this because we didn't add the citric acid when we were supposed to?
I would love to hear your experiences and tips with cheesemaking.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Noticing

2012-01-28T10:56:00.000-05:00

someone with a good sense of humor

Abby using some of our hand dyed yarn

sweet morning girls and how big the littlest is getting

the old with the new

What are you noticing today?

(Don't forget to leave a comment to enter the giveaway in the post below.)

Sweet Delivery and a Giveaway

2012-01-26T09:06:00.001-05:00

We received this beautiful package in the mail the other day.

From a sweet blog reader whose family business is making gourmet fudge.

Oh what a treat this was. Our family enjoyed it so much. My favorite was caffe latte.

To pass on the giving, I am offering a children's toy sampler from our family's business.

a birchmobile, wool grasping ball, and birch ribbon runner

~~To enter, just leave a comment below. The drawing will be held on Sunday evening at 7:00 pm.~~

The winner is Rain.
Just email me at naturalearthfarm@netzero.net
so I can get your package off to you.
Thanks everyone!

Warm wishes, Tonya

Yarn Along - Hand Knit Doll

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

Joining in with Ginny again this week. I am having fun knitting this sweet doll. The free pattern can be found here. She also has patterns to knit clothing to fit!

I am really enjoying Jane Eyre, a nice before sleep book.

What handwork projects are you working on? Any good books?

Warm wishes, Tonya

4!

2012-01-24T11:23:00.000-05:00

With a family of nine, we do get to enjoy cake and ice cream fairly often.

Abraham isn't a big fan of the camera.

His only handmade gift this year is a wand. He showed me that it works well to keep balloons in the air.

It is fun to watch the other children get excited with the decorating, baking, and gift giving, even when it isn't their special day.

Good Neighbors

2012-01-22T17:53:00.000-05:00

Our homesteading friends and neighbors have decided to sell their homestead to move a little bit south of here to be closer to their family and live a bit easier as they progress in years.

Their beautiful property is for sale. If that link doesn't go directly to the listing, it is $129,000 and in Lowell, Vermont. You should be able to find it.

We would love some more wonderful neighbors:) Anyone interested in a simple home on 22 acres, completely off grid with solar, a beautiful workshop, chicken coop, barn and one other out building should take a look.

Did I mention cookstove and established garden beds?

We sure are going to miss them.

Noticing....

2012-01-21T15:25:00.000-05:00

finished mittens for little hands and birch hearts found and cut from dear husband

that someone had the brilliant idea of putting one of the thrifted doilies on top of the branch slice on our kitchen table - the only one that says he did it is Abraham... hmmm an almost four year with great taste in design

Abby is making great progress on a 1000 piece puzzle

these words on one of our son's bedroom walls

One of Many

2012-01-20T08:23:00.000-05:00

(A photo Isaac took of himself - found on my camera.)

"It's not like in the Berenstain Bears book, Mom, how Sister felt neglected, when you have a new baby Mom. It's not like you give the new baby all your attention. Of course the new baby gets lots of your time but you still do things with everyone, like how you run around and do Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes with Abe in the morning."

As a mom of seven, sometimes I do worry that maybe each of our children deserve more of me. And then, as a gift from God, out of a child's voice comes reassurance and grace.

Knitting and Reading again for the Yarn Along

2012-01-18T10:30:00.000-05:00

Joining in with Ginny this week - to share two of my favorite things to do - knit and read!

I finished Emmy's vest using this pattern. This is the most simple of patterns. If you are a beginner I highly recommend it. You could easily adjust it to make vests for all sizes.

I have cast on this morning for mittens for Abraham, he could definitely use another pair.

The book I have been having so much fun looking through is one I borrowed from the library. It has inspired me to make my own books and to journal as an artistic outlet - especially since I only have small snippets of time for that.

Looking forward to catching up with all of the knitting and reading you are doing.

We are ....

2012-01-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

Warming by the woodstove

Caring for a chicken

Reading and snuggling

Creating books (more about this soon)

Playing in the snow

What are your days like right now?

18!

2012-01-16T08:32:00.000-05:00

This day of Thomas' 18th birthday was much like the day he was born -

one of the coldest days of the year yet sunny and beautiful.

This day is bittersweet for me - as I wrote to Thomas in his card. Bitter because I know our time

together will be less in the years to come and I will miss him - we all will miss him. He is the spark of our family - so often eager to play with his younger brothers and sisters with genuine enthusiasm and joy, helping out with the household chores whenever asked, sharing his views on the Bible which sometimes found he and I nearly debating in recent years, and simply enjoying his company throughout the days. I will miss the early mornings when he is usually the first to come down and join Mike and I at breakfast time.

It is a sweet time because I am so happy for the gift that he has given me - the privilege to be his mother. From the very beginning he taught me trust and patience as I wondered how I would ever get through each day during his first few years. (No, he was not an easy baby nor young child - but I am sure too that I had much to learn about being a mother.)
He has taught me much about faith as he has grown in his own beliefs.

Thomas has also let us share in his accomplishments of following his passions - theatre and music. From such a young age he would put on plays and puppet shows and then began acting with small theatre companies at the age of 7 and has not stopped. Now in the middle of the college admissions process, he is another step along the path of using the gifts God has given him.

It makes me happy to watch the tender Thomas, the one who is sad when he thinks about the possibility of leaving his baby sister when he goes off to college and missing so many of her "firsts". The responsible Thomas that wakes himself in plenty of time to get off to work by 7:00 am and makes to-do lists each day.

It is ever so sweet to think of the man he has become and the new life that he will shortly embark on as he makes his own way apart from his family, while remaining still so very much a part of us.

Here is a poem Thomas wrote last night and shared with me this morning ~

Prospects Of Hope - Jan. 15th 2012 - 18th Birthday

A new dawn breaks

O'er past horizons,

A dream of old reborn to the world.

A journey and a destination,

The beginning now behind me.

I look to the North:

I see the True Soul,

Speaking, serving, ruling.

To me, for me, over me.

I look to the South:

I see the Prism of Light,

Cascading in a multiplicitous form.

Shadowed, but soon revealed through love.

I look to the West:

I see the Stage

A lit with ravens carrying clovers and thorns,

But they all scatter as I draw near.

I look to the East:

I see the Black Dawn rising

Over pyramids of song,

And I hear the dragon stirring.

Beneath me lay crushed bones,

And above me shine stars without fault.

What an epic I shall write.

Moments from the Week

2012-01-14T08:34:00.001-05:00

Joining in with Jules of a little crafty nest to share -

lots of table time -

learning, painting and playing

And a little project ~

Our branch hooks were hung quite randomly and I decided it was time to give it a bit of a boost. I asked dear husband if we could put the hooks on a painted piece of pine.

this is the before picture

I decided to paint the door as well.

and this is the after picture

Nolan's Handcrafts

2012-01-12T14:35:00.000-05:00

Our recently turned 16 year old son, Nolan, has opened his own etsy shop - Nolan's Handcrafts. So far he is making guitar hangers and branch buttons. It really is exciting to see one of our children catch the spirit of handmade and to be marketing his products all on his own.

Food Compromises

2012-01-10T09:22:00.000-05:00

With a growing family of nine and a small income, we have to make some tough choices when it comes to our food purchasing. Last night we did have roasted potatoes and winter squash from last season's gardens, but for the most part we still purchase most of our food.

If money was not an issue, we would be 100% local and organic, but we wouldn't be able to pay our other bills if we did this. So choices have to be made.

On our shopping trip yesterday this is what we bought -

At a local small grocery store (we don't shop at the big ones like Price Chopper or Shaws) -
5 pounds of conventional rice
8 pounds of pasta
2 jars of spaghetti sauce (we used to buy cans of Hunts but realized they use corn syrup so we don't any longer) - next year we hope to can more. Our tomatoes did not produce this last year.
2 bottles of Hunts ketchup (they do not use corn syrup on their ketchup) and we have some children that seem to want ketchup on nearly everything
1 bottle of olive oil
2 cans of organic diced tomatoes
1 64 oz bottle of cranberry raspberry juice (a brand that doesn't use corn syrup)
5 - 14 oz boxes of Cheerios - usually we buy two large boxes per week but these were on sale (Our children alternate between this and pancakes for breakfast - Mike and I and Abraham eat organic rolled oats for breakfast several mornings each week - the oats are purchased in bulk from the local natural foods store. I have organic raisins on my cereal.)
1 can or Parmesan cheese
1.5 pounds of honey (raw semi-local - but not the really good stuff from our neighbor as it is just soooo expensive and with all of our tea loving children we can't afford it)
1 bottle organic red wine (can you believe they have some for 5.99?)
10 pounds of King Arthur white flour (this goes with our 25 pound of local Butterworks whole wheat organic flour)
1 bag of store brand chocolate chips
1 box of store brand saltines
1 can of coffee (we buy fair trade whenever possible)
3 pounds of butter (conventional)
2 pounds monterey jack cheese (we eat grilled cheese often for lunch in the winter)
4 boxes of organic mac and cheese (once per week for lunch in the winter and this crew needs four boxes)
1 pound of mozzarella (weekly homemade pizza)
1 Stonyfield organic yogurt (we usually buy our local Butterworks Maple at their farm once per week as well)
4 rolls of Marcal no chlorine, recycled toilet paper
1 container of seventh generation dish detergent

At the local Natural Food Store:
1 16 oz bag of organic corn chips
Drews organic salsa
cinnamon
4 - large organic onions - (we are going to grow many more of these this year our self as they keep well in the basement)
1 bag organic Flax seed meal (I use this in bread, cookies and on top of my pancakes and yogurt)
organic tofu

This should get us through most of the week.

I have granola from last week - I use organic rolled oats, wheat germ, sugar and honey, cinnamon, sunflower seeds, flax, oil and butter. This goes on yogurt for mid morning snack.

We purchased organic turtle beans from Butterworks farm which we are having 2 - 3 times each week either with tomatoes and spices or used in soup or made into baked beans for our protein.

In addition, I buy a container of tofu to go with tomato sauce and pasta once per week for dinner.
Then, we buy local organic beef when we can afford it - usually once every other week.

Our chickens only give us about 4 eggs per day right now - but that is enough for pancake batter once or twice a week and all of the baking I do.

Yeast, I purchase about every other week in bulk from the natural food store for our daily bread which ends up being 3/4 organic (with the Butterworks organic wheat and King Arthur white).

We purchase organic raw milk once per week after church at the farm after church and then do drink conventional milk the rest of the time - can't wait until we can milk our goats.

So all in all, we spend about $175 - $200 -per week on everything - that includes dog food, cat food, chicken feed and so on.

Our food does involve many compromises and we hope to do more ourselves each year, but this is where we are at right now.

Any other ideas to share?

Daily Practice

2012-01-09T08:16:00.000-05:00

When we lived off grid in an old mobile home with five children and then for a year with our sixth baby, practicing gratitude became a habit for me. I just knew that God had a plan for us and that He would not give me any more than I could handle.

So while carrying water from one end of the mobile home to the other to wash dishes or while scrubbing clothes by hand in the wash bucket or filling our "refrigerator" with a bucket of snow, or wondering how we would ever manage with yet another baby, I had a choose to either embrace what I had or be miserable. I did often come to God in tears, but through it all, giving thanks daily and often became a habit. I would thank God for the food we did have to eat, the clothes I was able to wash, for my husband and children, for a roof over our head, and so on.

Now that our lives are truly much more comfortable, I don't have to be working from the time I wake to the time I go to bed just to meet our family's needs, and now that our business is providing for us plus, now that our home has ample space for all of us, running water, electricity, a washing machine - it is so much harder to remember to give thanks continually - to remember that all comes from God.

I bought this book this past summer and have read it once, but pick it up often to re-read sections and now with the near year, I have begun my own thousand gifts journal. I need to do this to remind myself of how much I have been given but even more so I need to do this to be reminded of how much I have to give.

"Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring." --Isaiah 58:10 - 100--

Warm wishes and blessings as you begin the work of a new week,
Tonya

(Ann Voskamp, the author or One Thousand Gifts, has a wonderful blog - A Holy Experience.)

Moments from the Week

2012-01-07T12:14:00.001-05:00

skating on our pond

father and daughter together at lunch time

needle felting with Sarah and Abraham

making penguins and snow people

although the children say they all look like penguins

a new knitted pair of booties for Emmy

life is so good

Wishing you a wonderful weekend,

Tonya

Attitude Adjustment

2012-01-05T15:54:00.000-05:00

I made up my mind recently to not be frustrated at the time it takes to continually help the two younger ones with their coats, mittens, hats, skates, etc.. and instead embrace the time by

praying for them, smiling at them, and being fully engaged with them for those

precious few minutes.

Knitting Bag

2012-01-04T07:53:00.001-05:00

Joining in with Ginny again this week.

Yesterday I sewed up this knitting bag using a pair of old jeans, some fabric from an old skirt and our handmade hemlock buttons.

On my needles I am working on another hat. The one I was knitting for myself came out well. I just love this simple pattern as it uses up bits of yarn and also I can include some more exclusive, hand dyed yarn such as this mix of greens that I bought from The Sitting Tree. Just putting a band in each hat would make the one skein last for many, many hats.

I have also cast on some Peace Fleece DK weight yarn on size six needles to make a vest from this free pattern.

Finally, I have started to read Jane Eyre, I book I have never read but am excited to enjoy the rich language and to get my brain active in the new year.

What are your handwork goals this year?

Abby told me yesterday....

2012-01-03T06:36:00.000-05:00

"I like home schooling."
"Why?" I asked.
Her reply, "Because I can finish my table work early and then do my chores - like take care of the chickens and goats and then sometimes fill up the inside wood if it needs it - and then have so much of the day to do what I would like - making sun catchers, drawing, and today - I am going to make a movie."

A New Year

2012-01-02T07:32:00.001-05:00

What a wonderful year 2011 has been.

We were able to support our family of now nine with the work of our little home business. A goal though for the new year is to be better stewards of our money - to save a bit for when the business does have slow times and for emergencies.

We also want to balance the time on our business with time needed on our homestead - both our home, outbuildings, gardens, fenced in areas for the goats, and growing/planting more fruit trees/bushes.

One of my homesteading goals is to make our own soft cheeses from raw milk from a nearby farm and to get our goats bred this coming fall so that we can start milking next spring.

This year also brought the birth of Emmy - oh what an amazing gift - both her birth and her sweet healthy self. Through the hard pregnancy I learned to let go and to concentrate on what matters most and my goal in 2012 is to continue this - to be fully present for my family and to serve them selflessly.

Already my hands have been busy this year with knitting and needle felting. My personal goal is to spend more time in artistic creative pursuits - I enjoy drawing and want to work more with wool and wood.

I am so thankful for all the gifts 2011 brought and look forward to learning, growing and serving in 2012, and keeping myself always open to God's leading.

Wishing you joy and peace in the New Year!

Reading and Knitting

2011-12-28T09:39:00.000-05:00

Joining in with Ginny again to share what I am knitting and reading.

Last week I knit up that little hat that was supposed to be for me but turned out much too small - even too small for Abraham. So I cast on again increasing the stitches and using larger needles.

What I like about this pattern is that I can use up bits of yarn.

I have a new craft book! - Sewn by Hand - How much fun to not use the sewing machine. Looking forward to trying out some of the projects.

What are you knitting and reading?

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Under Construction

2011-12-27T10:47:00.000-05:00

New projects beginning already - children making potholders, hockey nets being put together for the pond, painting to make a Happy New Year banner, and installing a new door and two new windows in our house.

More Christmas Joy

2011-12-26T10:03:00.000-05:00

We are simply enjoying these peaceful "in between" days -

some light lessons for the children as we took the two weeks prior to Christmas off, game playing, outdoor snow play, goal making, and of course, new handwork project planning.

What are you doing this week?

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Gifts from God

2011-12-24T17:15:00.000-05:00

A mixture of joy and sadness are my feelings on Christmas. So much joy for the gifts God has given me - the birth of His Son, my amazing family, a home, food, clothing, generous gift cards from family and friends and the list could go on and on.

During Christmas, though as I am reminded of all of my blessings, I think of those that don't have as many blessings - those with very little healthy food to eat, lack a loving family or friends, or have never been introduced to Jesus' love.

Sarah said to me today as we were listening to NPR," Mom, 1 out of 7 people in Vermont go hungry."

How much should we help? When are we being too indulgent instead of helping? When do I not need to buy a bottle of wine or some new art supplies for the children? When should I instead be helping others? Or is it ok to do both? And how does God want me to do so?

So on this Christmas it seems as if God is reminding me that I am to love others like He loves us and to be more self-sacrificing like Jesus.

This Christmas Eve as our family sits in our warm home heated by our woodstove, and eats a simple meal of homemade soup before going to Christmas Eve service at church, I will be thankful and know that all of our blessings are from God.

Merry Christmas!

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." ~ Ephesians 2:10

Cookies and Clementines for Breakfast this Morning

2011-12-22T10:18:00.001-05:00

Today

2011-12-20T14:35:00.000-05:00

The chickens are sunbathing,

a small brush fire is burning,

and Sparky is joining in on the fun. Abraham thought we should get her goat skates.

Warm wishes,

Tonya

A Little Handmade Holiday

2011-12-19T10:40:00.000-05:00

Finishing up a little of this and that such as making tags to go on the cocoa mix jars, baking cookies to go with the goodie boxes that will be mailed off to family. We are also including some of the delicious goodness from our neighbor's business.

Abby and Isaac decorated our living area with a long paper chain.

And yes! we are ice skating today - there were shouts of joy this morning.

What last minute projects are you working on?

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Moments from the Week

2011-12-17T09:28:00.000-05:00

As I was clearing the table from supper and looked across the room, this is what I saw.

Abby hurt her neck - pulled something I think, and it felt better as the day went on but it sent her resting on the couch most of the day. Sarah lovingly cared for her - getting whatever she needed - she is a caretaker - not giving a thought to helping.

Emmy with her big brother Nolan. I love how he holds her and tells her she is the most beautiful baby in the world.

Sarah and Abraham making salt ornaments.

Emmy's little hand on her Dad's

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Two Needle Mitten Pattern

2011-12-14T11:38:00.000-05:00

Joining in with Ginny of Small Things for this week's Knit Along to share a simple mitten pattern that I have had several requests for...

This is a really simple two needle knitting pattern for mittens.

So far I have made the following sizes the first number is for our 3 year old, second for our 7 year old, and third number for our 11 year old. Please note that our children are on the smaller size, but wool is very forgiving either way.
This pattern is adapted from the Wee Mittens in the book Vintage Knits for Modern Babies.
Cast on using size 3 needles with worsted weight yarn 31 (35) (39) stitiches.
Rib for desired length of cuff - K1P1 for each row.
Change to larger needles (size 5) and work 2 rows in stockinette stitch.
For the Thumb:
Row 1: Knit 15 (17) (19), place marker, M1, k1, M1, place marker, knit to end - know you have 33 (35) (37) sts.
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: Knit to marker, sl marker, M1, knit to marker, M1, slip to marker, knit to end -
Repeat rows 2 and 3 until you have 13 (15) (17) stitches between markers
Nest row: Purl
Thumb:
Row 1: Knit 28 (32) (36), turn
Row 2: P5 (6) (7), p2 tog, p 6 (7) (8), turn
Work 4 (6) (8) rows in Stockinette stitch
Next row: K2tog across row
Break yarn and thread tail through rem sts and pull tight. Start sewing up seam of thumb.
Top Shaping:
Rejoin yarn to stitches on left needles with right side facing, and knit to end 30 (34) (38) stitches.
Continue in Stockinette stitch until work measures length for hand, ending with a purl row.
Decreases:
Row 1: Knit 2, knit 2tog across row
Row 2: Purl
Row 3: Repeat Row 1
Row 4: purl
Row 5: Knit 2tog across
Break yarn leaving a long tail and run needle through remaining stitches pull yarn tight and sew up seam of mitten.

I am still reading the Charlotte Mason Companion and have started a new nightly chapter book with Sarah - it is an older book called A Horse like Mr. Ragman. It is a book that horse lovers would enjoy and Sarah is most definitely a lover of horses.

Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-12-13T07:23:00.001-05:00

Gathered greenery and added some birch bark hearts to the ends of some twine which is holding the swag together - all can be returned to the earth

Knitting another pair of mittens for oldest daughter in purple

Knitted cotton washcloths to go with these beautiful soaps from Old Gates Farm

Printing these gorgeous free calenders from A Number of Things

How are your holiday projects coming along?

Please feel free to share links and ideas in your comment.

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Glad that

2011-12-09T11:16:00.000-05:00

there are still pumpkins in the basement (our unfinished basement makes a great root cellar) to make these delicious pumpkin bars

it has turned cold enough to make icicles and snow - enough to provide a layer of cover on the ground and trees

Emmy Sue is getting chubby and her crying times are getting fewer

that Abraham keeps taking out the yoga cards and asks me to do them with him. We usually finish with some hopping, skipping and jumping jacks.

I am also glad that the the children enjoy a few good rounds of Simon Says - perfect for these cold days when there isn't quite enough snow on the ground yet and the ice isn't ready for skating. I enjoy hearing their laughter and silliness as they try to trick one another into doing something when "Simon doesn't say".

I bought these DVDs from Above Rubies and would like to pass them on to the first person who leaves a comment saying they would like them. They are a very basic introduction into living a life centered around God and family, one that proclaims children to be a blessing.

What are you glad about today?

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Knitting and Reading again for the Yarn Along

2011-12-07T15:34:00.000-05:00

Joining in with Ginny of Small Things again...

I have just cast on with some wonderfully soft baby alpaca yarn to knit up this sweet hat, the pattern courtesy of Ginny. If all goes well, I have some natural colored alpaca as well and I would like to size it up to knit one for myself.

I am reading The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson as I need extra encouragement right now as we are still working on rhythm and balance and reading her book helps me to remember what an honor it is to have the privilege of mothering all of our blessings.

I could really use a good fiction read - any suggestions?

Warm wishes, Tonya

Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-12-06T08:23:00.000-05:00

Inspired here, I am in the process of knitting apples for Abraham - it is so much fun to have a lot I think - to count, play in the play kitchen, sort and more. I have still have to knit some green ones.

Sarah is working on note cards - I purchased the blank note cards from dickblick.com - about $3.00 for 10 and she is giving them in sets of 4.

Do you have an ideas to share this week?

December

2011-12-02T09:52:00.000-05:00

a nativity calender - gifted to us - when each flap is opened, a Bible verse is revealed

our Stockbridge, Massachusetts village - gifted to us over many Christmases when we lived in the Berkshires

a tree from our little homestead

Yarn Along

2011-11-30T08:18:00.000-05:00

Joining with Ginny again today to share two of my favorite things - knitting and reading.

Emmy modeling her new hat. I am using the rest of the yarn to knit mittens for Sarah for Christmas.

I just received this book in the mail yesterday - 100 Days of Blessings - Devotions for Wives and Mothers by Nancy Campbell. I need to be in the Word each day and I am hoping this will be a way to discipline myself. Each devotional references several Bible verses and I have started a Bible journal where I am copying the verses each day.

What are you knitting and reading?

Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-11-28T09:55:00.000-05:00

Abby is helping me with this gift. She is making the hot cocoa mix - for each quart jar, 1 1/2 cup organic milk powder, 1/2 c. sugar and 1/4 cup cocoa. I added the burlap top with the white edging. We are going to make homemade marshmallows as well. I haven't googled a recipe yet, has anyone made some before?

I am knitting mittens for Sarah using the rest of the yarn from Emmy's hat. I have the other one cast on and in progress. She does keep asking me if I am knitting them for her, but I do my best to avoid answering...

Sharing from another reader ~

Natalie of Remembrances shared two different advent ideas last week.

Please share your handmade holiday ideas in a comment and be sure to leave a link if you have blogged about it.

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Soup and Pie for Thanksgiving

2011-11-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

We had our Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday with family that came up to visit and to see Thomas' performance. We had 20 people including little Emmy. I baked a 33 pound turkey that we bought locally. We actually would see him and his friends free ranging throughout the summer as we drove by this farm often. Yes, we have been eating turkey every day since. Knowing that on Thanksgiving day it would just be our family and that we would be working for much of the day, I decided to keep it simple with turkey soup and pie. Abby made chocolate cream.

I made the pumpkin pie from a pumpkin that we grew and we had delicious whipped cream made from cream from a local farm. I also made a batch of rolls.

Another tradition is eggnog. The children love and we buy it just this one time each year. I thought it quite interesting that neither Sarah nor Abraham had any idea how to open this kind of top to pour. I guess it is a bit old fashioned now as most cartons have the plastic screw cover now.

How was your Thanksgiving?
Warm wishes,
Tonya

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T10:42:00.000-05:00

Knitting and Reading

2011-11-23T09:44:00.000-05:00

Joining in again with Ginny at the beautiful blog Small Things to share what is on my needles and what I am reading.

After finishing Emmy's vest, I decided to pick up some inexpensive 25% wool/75% acrylic in a worsted weight at our little local yarn shop, to knit her a new hat as she is growing so fast. I also wanted to improve my skills on double pointed needles, knitting in the round. The needles are size 6 and I cast on 64 stitches. The rim is a knit 2, purl 2 with enough to fold up on the bottom and then the rest is just knit.

Have I ever written about our local yarn shop? I don't think so. The owner is one of the most generous, thoughtful people I know. She and her husband are dairy farmers. Their children are grown now. About a year and a half ago they lost their house to a fire. Now they live in a mobile home on their land. Now she rarely shares any of this nor does she share about the pains in her knees that have required surgery, nor the reason why her hands visibly shake, yet she continues to share her love of knitting with others. To each our daughters she has given sweet gifts from her store - asking them if it was their birthday and although their reply was some time in the past, her reply was well happy late birthday. This fall she is giving out yarn to all those that will knit for the families of Vermont that lost all in the floods of hurricane Irene. She is a beautiful example of Christ's love. To strive to be more like Jesus is a daily struggle. To be selfless. To be giving. To be gracious. To be grateful.

I am reading White Fang by Jack London aloud to Isaac and Abby (ages 13 and11). So far it is an exciting read for those interested in adventure in the Alaska wild lands. One of the wonderful parts of homeschooling is to be able to learn and read right alongside our children.

Looking forward to finding out what you are reading and knitting today.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Working

2011-11-22T11:43:00.000-05:00

Our counters are getting full as our busy season is upon us.

Knitted gnomes off to make a new home.

A birch branch card hand holder for young children who have a hard time holding their playing cards.

This time of the year often makes me wonder whether I can manage all. I start thinking of all the projects I wish I had time to do with the children and to make for others.

Then I realize that it is time to stop the pity party and think of all of the blessings that having a family home business bring. For example, at least one parent is always available and we do spend lots of time together. As a one car family, because of the flexibility of the hours in our business, we can bring the children to their activities. They are learning about entrepreneurship and how we must work together.

Having a full time home based family business is truly a dream come true.

Handmade Holiday - 2011 - Supporting Small Businesses

2011-11-21T08:05:00.001-05:00

Busy with our little one and our own business, this year I am sure I won't be able to make something for everyone, so I will be buying some carefully chosen gifts from small businesses making goods by hand. Etsy is a wonderful place to find handmade gifts make by individuals working mostly from their homes.

Heidi of Under the Humble Moon has started a directory of small mama made shops.

Some of the handmade goodness that can be found include

Art smocks from Humble Luna

Sweet little gnome people from Mama West Wind

Adorable tshirts from Mama Gone Green

There are so many more wonderful shops out there.

If you offer hand made goods this holiday season through an online shop, mail order, through your blog, or some other means, please share your business by leaving a description and link in your comment.

Teaching and Learning

2011-11-18T09:48:00.000-05:00

This sweet girl of ours is learning so much so quickly - now interacting and cooing back at us with all different voices - sometimes a high pitched squeal, other times soft and soothing. She is learning to use her hands and arms. She will be two months old on Sunday.

She is also teaching me so much - to be more patient, to value the moments of time I have, and to keep life in perspective. Her birth has also helped to strengthen my faith in a loving God that cares so much for us, provides for us, and has trusted me, our family and friends to care for and love her. What an awesome responsibility and a gift. I am so thankful.

Wishing you a beautiful weekend. We are having a Thanksgiving meal tomorrow with family arriving to share in the meal and then to see our oldest son, Thomas, playing the role of Jekyll in the musical, Jekyll and Hyde. I will be back here Monday for the Handmade Holiday post.

Yarn Along - Emmy's Vest is Done

2011-11-16T09:07:00.000-05:00

...with DK weight yarn from Peace Fleece and our hand made birch buttons with wood burned hearts.

I am still reading The Charlotte Mason Companion. Reading time has been scarce lately as Emmy is still very fussy in the evening until bed time. But on the bright side I am getting some extra exercise walking around with her.

Looking forward to seeing your projects and learning about some good reading.

Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-11-14T16:45:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the late post today. Life is very full but truly it is wonderful.

First, I wanted to share a gem of a holiday magazine I picked up about two month's ago - Holiday Crafts.

Rarely do I purchase craft magazines because there is usually only maybe one project in it that I would do (except my subscription to Living Crafts), but I saw this one on the newsstand, thumbed through it and right away found many projects - many that can be made of wool or wool felt.

Like these sweet needle felted snowpeople...

Yesterday afternoon, I was able to spend time visiting with a friend, and we each started working on our own matryoshka ornament. I thought it would be a nice gift to tie to a plate of home baked goods.

And please visit Old Gates Farm's blog for some inspiring handmade holiday posts such as her unique packaging idea - a hand knit washcloth with soap in a canning jar - I just love this.

If you have an idea to share or a link, please leave a note in your comment.

Thank you!

Two Little Ducks - a Project with Sarah

2011-11-11T10:25:00.001-05:00

When our autumn edition of Living Crafts arrived the other day, Sarah looked through it and proclaimed, "We are going to make these adorable ducks tomorrow!"

So while all was quiet in our home last Sunday afternoon we began.
We do not have a copier to enlarge the pattern as the instructions stated, and instead traced the pattern as it was in the magazine to make small ducks.

Sarah asked to take a picture of me as we were working.

Sarah's duck in progress. As I was showing her how to do certain stitches and sharing with her their names - the whip stitch and the running stitch - she commented how her mother is teaching her stitches and then she will teach them to her children, and her children will teach them to their children and so on...

what a wonderful thought.

(I just want to share that Suzy of Hip Mountain Mama is having a wonderful string of giveaways focusing on thankfulness.)

Thankful for...

2011-11-10T08:55:00.000-05:00

Our daily home baked bread and our eggs from our new hens - so glad we bought some new chicks this past spring because our "old ladies" are not laying at all right now.

This growing girl - all of seven weeks now - holding up her head and smiling away at all of us.

the beautiful weather yesterday that brought us all outside - even without sweaters

washing and hanging out to dry our bed quilt in the warm fresh air

the moon's fullness reflecting in our pond last evening

Yarn Along

2011-11-09T09:22:00.000-05:00

Joining in again with Ginny again this glorious Wednesday. (It is sunny and is supposed to get into the 60's here in northern Vermont today!)

I am still working on Emmy's vest and am enjoying reading the new issue of Countryside that just came yesterday. Countryside is a homesteading magazine filled with articles written by people who are actually living the life. I am still reading The Charlotte Mason Companion at bed time and am learning much that I look forward to putting into practice in our home.

Looking forward to seeing what you are knitting and reading.
Warm wishes,
Tonya

Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-11-07T09:38:00.000-05:00

I don't have a new project to report on today but wanted to share some links ~

Jen, of Sewn Natural, just posted this great idea for children today - making a needle felting journal cover. (I think this is a great gift idea for parents and children to do together.)

She has some wonderful handmade holiday posts. Be sure to check out her posts from previous years.

Abbi at Proverbs 31 Living has a weekly Handmade Christmas Post on Tuesdays.

If you have an idea to share, please leave a note in the comment and if you blogged about it, a link to your post.

Thanks so much and Happy Monday,
Tonya

Moments from the Week

2011-11-04T08:58:00.000-04:00

They each made their own costumes.

For those that hang dry your cloth diapers, any tips for keeping them soft?

Sweet Emmy and I - our first photo together since her birth. She is about 6 weeks old here.

Warm wishes for a beautiful weekend.

Frugal Breast Pads

2011-11-03T10:44:00.000-04:00

I have been blessed with an abundance (over abundance really!) of breast milk and require breast pads to help with the leaking. Sometimes more than one set in a day.

Needing more, I came up with this idea to make some with what I had on hand. Taking a three-ply cotton cloth diaper, I simply cut out circles and sewed around the edges.

Knitting and Reading again for the Yarn Along

2011-11-02T08:40:00.000-04:00

I am knitting Emmy a little wool vest using this free pattern and Peace Fleece lavender yarn in DK weight on size 4 needles.

I took my tattered and probably 10 year old copy of The Charlotte Mason Companion. So much goodness in her methods and Karen writes in such a clear way and makes the reading interesting and gives so much food for thought.

We have an eclectic style of homeschooling but in the days and years to come, will be adding in even more of the Charlotte Mason style of learning as it just makes sense.
An important part of the philosophy (way of living/learning) is to be sure that your children each day have -
~ Something or someone to love
~ Something to do
~ Something to think about
Charlotte's Mason's writngs go on in much more detail what each of these three can mean and in The Charolotte Mason Companion, Karen Andreola does a wonderful job giving examples of each.

Looking forward to learning what you are knitting/crocheting and reading!

Praying for Grace

2011-11-01T08:36:00.000-04:00

I have not been taking on the duties of a new mama gracefully. My words have not always been kind and building up, my mood often grumpy. The children's homeschooling, the house, and then we have this full time home business that I am an integral part of.... Oh, what about the animals and cooking and baking? I have shed tears each day wondering how I can ever meet everyones' needs and all my duties.

Our beautiful new gift from God, sweet Emmy, is a baby that desires to be held a lot - which I understand and carry her around on the front carrier as I go about our day. But, she also has periods of intense crying where the only solution is to hold her "just so" and walk around and around until she calms herself down. Thankfully, this is usually in the evenings, between the hours of 7:00 - 10:00 pm. Practicing gratitude during those moments is what gets me through. I remember how grateful I am to have a healthy baby, that is growing and gaining weight and now smiles back at us. I also think about how much her brothers and sisters love her and truly enjoy holding her and spending time with her.

We bought a pacifier yesterday to see if that might help, something our babies have rarely used. Last night she didn't want it, but we may try again.

Even before the birth of Emmy, I had been praying for some balance to my life, that God helps me to prioritize and find peace within my too filled brain.

So, for me - I need to -
1. Spend time in prayer and reading the Bible each morning
2. Put my husband and children before all us - get the homeschool planning done before wrapping up the business orders, for example.
3. Care for our home - keep it neat and tidy and organized but don't fret over the dust and that for one day the laundry piles grows instead of shrinks.
4. Remember that this is a season in my life and to enjoy the seconds as they pass so quickly; that the moments are all I have.

5. Don't worry if I am not facilitating as many creative seasonal projects as I like to - The truth is I didn't even ask the children if they wanted to carve pumpkins, I was hoping they would forget. But yesterday afternoon Sarah remembered and how could I possibly say no...

Thank you Ginny for writing truthfully yesterday. I know that I am not alone and there was one comment that really helped me to keep it all in perspective -
Sarah wrote, "- the MOST important thing you can give you children is that sweet little brother. Life may be overwhelming now, but Silas is a more valuable gift than all the messy crafts and math lessons in the world. Sleep will come eventually and until it does, slow down, savor the sweet baby and the turning leaves. Read to all the kids, snuggle your sweet little boy, and enjoy this short season. It will pass and your rhythm will return...."

Handmade Holiday - 2011 - Knit Hat and Felt Hearts

2011-10-31T09:49:00.001-04:00

I finished Mike's hat. Nolan tried it on for size and it fits pretty well, but I think for the rest of the boys' hats I will just cast on 88 stitches.

Sarah worked on some more hearts this past week for our advent heart basket.

Looking forward to reading about some ideas to get started on a new Christmas project this week.

To share leave a comment with your link.

Warm wishes,

Tonya

It felt like Christmas morning in our house this morning

2011-10-30T10:21:00.000-04:00

(Sorry about the blurry picture - I took it through our window inside)

As Mike, Emmy and I were still resting in bed this morning, at about 6:45 (Sundays we get up a just a bit later than the rest of the week), we could hear the children saying - "There is snow!, Snow!" Oh the excitement.

Right after breakfast, the winter clothing hunt began. I had just sorted through the hats and mittens yesterday but had not pulled out snow pants and snow boots. Then outside for a time - tracking, throwing snowballs, and just laying down in the snow.

To be joyful like children on the morning of the first snowfall! - something to strive for.

Blessings to all and warm wishes for a peaceful Sunday,
Tonya

Favorite Pumpkin Recipes this Fall

2011-10-27T08:26:00.001-04:00

So far this autumn, these are my two favorite pumpkin recipes:

This first one is a nice morning bread.

Spiced Pumpkin Bread

3/4 C demerara sugar or sucanat

1/4 butter, softened

1 egg

3/4 cup canned or fresh pumpkin puree

3 T. orange juice

1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

In a medium mixing bowl, beat sugar, butter, egg, pumpkin, orange juice, and orange zest. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining dry ingredients. Pour pumpkin mixture into bowl with dry ingredients, and stir until no lumps remain.

Lightly grease and flour a loaf pan. (This recipe makes one 8x4 loaf)

Bake in a pre-heated oven at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes. Check with a toothpick or fork (should come out clean).

This next one is a delicious dessert!

Pumpkin Bars

Ingredients:

3/4 cup oil

2 cups sugar

2 cups pumpkin

4 eggs

2 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

2 tsp. cinnamon

2 cups flour

Mix in large bowl.

Pour into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan

Bake 350 degrees. Bake 35-40 minutes or until pick inserted comes out clean

Icing:

3 oz. softened cream cheese

1 Tbs. orange juice or milk

1/4 cup butter

1 tsp. vanilla

1 3/4 cups powered sugar

Yesterday

2011-10-25T09:37:00.000-04:00

Sarah's new hair cut.

Abraham playing in a "fort" of scrap wood beside the barn.

Sarah pushing Abraham on a tricycle we found at recycling. Oh, what a beautiful day it was yesterday!

And we celebrated Mike's 45th birthday. Notice the duct taped paper bags for gift wrapping from the children:)

Handmade Holiday 2011

2011-10-24T09:41:00.000-04:00

I don't have anything too exciting to share this week as I am working on a very simple knit hat for dear husband.

I know it would probably be neater to knit with circular needles but then I would have to buy size 8 circular as well as size 8 double pointed needles.

This is a simple pattern - just cast on 92 stitches. Knit 2, Purl 2 each row across for 2 inches. Then stockinette stitch for 4" and then begin decreasing.

Looking forward to seeing what you are working on.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Knitting and Reading again for the Yarn Along

2011-10-19T09:47:00.000-04:00

Joining with Ginny at Small Things again this Wednesday - don't the weeks just go by so fast? I am knitting these sweet little Mary Jane style wool booties for our shop. They are a quick and easy knit and again from my favorite knitting book, Vintage Knits for Modern Babies.

With just a few pages left to go in Deeply Rooted, I am looking for another bedtime book. Deeply Rooted is again, a great read if you are passionate about food, and specifically about keeping our food choices local as much as possible and out of the hands of big business.

This little book, Small Acts of Kindness, is a children's book that was recommended and how wonderful to go along with our kindness theme. It is just great - starting with one small act of kindness from a little boy giving his mother a hug in the morning and how that leads to another act of kindness from his mother to someone else, and so on and so on....

Looking forward to finding out what you reading and knitting or crocheting.

Christmas Countdown with Wool Hearts - Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-10-17T17:11:00.001-04:00

I love the idea of making the whole Christmas season special, not just the one day and I like the idea of an advent calender but didn't want something that involved treats or small gifts for everyone each of the 25 days as that could get really expensive or time consuming to make, so I came up with this idea to countdown the days before Christmas.

This is so simple - I don't think that I have ever crafted anything that could be classified as complex - anybody can make these and it is a great project for children as well.

I used wool felt but you could also use upcycled felted wool (think old sweaters) and cut out 24 hearts and one star for number 25. I used pinking shears so that I could just use a simple running stitch around the heart instead of the blanket stitch to save a bit of time but the blanket stitch would certainly look nice as well. Leave a hole to stuff with wool and then finish sewing closed. Don't forget to add a loop for hanging. I am thankful to have Sarah helping me with these.

Next, we are needle felting the numbers on each heart. You could instead embroider the numbers.

We will be putting all of our hearts and star in a basket and then take out the appropriate number each day beginning December 1st to hang on our Christmas tree. But other options would be to have a smaller branch "tree" to hang them or some other creative idea.

I look forward to your sharing. Please leave a link in the comment if you have posted about your project, recipe, plans, etc...
Warm wishes, Tonya

Scenes from the Past Week

2011-10-15T11:29:00.000-04:00

Adding a side to our barn/shed - the new barn is not going to get built before the snow comes as we have other priorities financially right now, so we need to add on to each side. One side is to store the bicycles and recycling bins so we can clear out 1/2 the barn to make room for a milking stand and another pen area. The other side overhang will be for the goats to have a little extra space this winter. They will at least be able to step outside.

The goats are helping to clean out the gardens.

The chickens get free range now that the gardens are all through. They enjoy scratching in the compost pile.

A scene just a short drive from our home.

More cutting, splitting and stacking.

Granola making.

Apple butter canning.

The last of the apples from our two trees in one more apple crisp.

Baby Knit Pants and Another Farming and Food Book

2011-10-12T09:41:00.000-04:00

Joining in with Ginny of Small Things this Wednesday to share more about the knit baby pants and what I am reading.

For the baby pants, I have altered the pattern a bit from the book, Vintage Knits for Modern Babies.

Cast on for front.
Using size 4 needles, and worsted weight yarn, cast on 26 stitches. Knit 6 rows garter stitch, on the 6th row increase 2 stitches evenly across row.
Continue in stockinette stitch until leg measures 5 1/2 inches long.
Cut yarn.
Cast on 26 stitches on same needle.
Repeat as above.

When other leg measures 5 1/2" long finish on a purl row.
Next row knit all the way across both legs.
Continue knitting in the stockinette stitch until piece measures 9 1/2 inches long. Now knit in the garter stitch for 3 rows.
Next row you will be adding holes for the drawstring. Knit 5 stitches, Knit 2 Together, Yarn Over, Knit 5 stitches, Knit 2 together, Yarn Over - repeat across row.
Knit 3 more rows and bind off.
Repeat exactly the same for back.
Using a crochet hook, chain to fit all the way around the waist of the pants. Using a yarn needle, weave chain in and out of holes around waist.

I am reading a really good nonfiction book - Deeply Rooted, Unconventional Farmers in the Age of Agribusiness by Lisa M. Hamilton. Her writing is engaging and holds your interest as she introduces the reader to farmers who are not part of the giant world of agribusiness. As Wendell Berry writes in a review of the book, "...these people have had the courage to use their own intelligence in their own places."

Looking forward to reading about your book choices and what is on your needles.

Three Weeks!

2011-10-11T16:57:00.000-04:00

Emmy is wearing a hand knit sweater from our friend and neighbor and little shoes I knit for her. At three weeks she is more awake, alert and bright-eyed. She has, also, developed a fussy time in the evening from about 7:00 - 9:00 pm when she finally falls asleep. I continue to be in awe of her and fall in love with her a little more each day.

Handmade Holiday - Wool Needle Felted Upcycled Hot Pot Pad

2011-10-10T11:37:00.002-04:00

This came out fairly well, but it has given me ideas for improvement.
Let me first share what I did ~

I started with an old wool sweater that was felted (washed in hot water) and traced around a large plate to cut out a circle.

Next using a piece of wool yarn, I blanket stitched around the edge. Then using bits of wool roving, I began needle felting a design onto the piece.

I was thinking this would be nice for a soup pot. I am thinking, though, that when I make more, maybe I will add a design around the edges so that when a pot is on top, the design is still visible.

I look forward to all of the sharing!
Please leave a note in your comment with ideas and links.

I have made this little button if you want to add it to your blog and please link it here.

Blessings and warm wishes,
Tonya

Rummage Sale Vintage Embroidery Finds

2011-10-09T11:12:00.001-04:00

Yesterday Dear Husband, Emmy and I travelled out in the morning to go to a rummage sale. The ride was just gorgeous as the colors are still beautiful as we road over the mountain.

It was a church sale I had been to before and knew that it would be worthwhile. ended up with many pieces of clothing for the family, some bed sheets, baskets, a butter dish, books, and these beautiful hand embroidered linens - all for $14.00.

I love imagining the women who sat and made each of these and all of the time and care that went into each piece. I hope to make the time to do some of my own to perhaps become family heirlooms.

Enjoy your day today - it is a beautiful warm sunny day here in northern Vermont.

Warm wishes and blessings,

Tonya

Some Notes -

~ Tomorrow is the Handmade Holiday post. I have an upcycled wool project to share.

~ I have had several questions about the pattern for the knit baby pants. I altered the one from Vintage Knits for Modern Babies just a bit, and will share it on Wednesday

Dyeing Wool Yarn

2011-10-06T16:27:00.001-04:00

After seeing the process of "painting" wool yarn on various blogs and in an old issue of Living Crafts magazine, the girls and I decided to give it a try using food coloring.

First I put a few "glugs" of vinegar in a large pan with water and heated to near boiling. I added each skein of yarn for a minute to soak, one at a time and placed on towels on our table. In most tutorials I have noticed they used plastic, but we didn't have any, so there was a bit of a mess under the towels when we were done.

I took the hot water/vinegar from the pot and poured a some in six bowls and then added about 8 drops of food coloring total to each bowl to make red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple.

Next we spooned the color on each of our skeins of yarn.

I then heated up about 1" of water in a large canning pot and then put the bottle (canner) holder over the edge of the pan and when the water came to a boil, I carefully put one of the dyed skeins of yarn around (in) the jar holder, then put the cover on to steam the yarn for about 3 - 4 minutes. Next, the yarn was removed to cool down and then I rinsed it under lukewarm water and wrung it out then hung to dry.

Abby winding up her yarn.

Her finished yarn

Sarah finger knitting with her yarn. She wants to double finger knit it to make a jump rope. Her dad will help her make some branch handles.

My finished yarn.

The colors came out a bit faded, but it was a fun process. It sure makes me appreciate those that make truly beautiful hand dyed yarns such as The Sitting Tree, Springtree Road, Sweet Basil Fibre Works, and Brambleberry Yarns.

Yarn Along

2011-10-05T10:12:00.000-04:00

Joining in with Ginny at Small Things today as knitting is one thing I have been able to do a bit of. Nursing, holding baby and knitting seem to go together well.

The pair of pants I had knit for Emmy are too big, so I cast on another pair using smaller needles (size 3) and some cotton yarn (75% from recycled cotton by Lion Brand). I have one side done and hope to finish the other side in the next couple of days as she really could use them. For this pair I decided to add button holes along the top band to thread a drawstring through.

I pulled out a book from the shelves, 10 Principles for Spiritual Parenting, that I have had for some time and re-read a chapter. This week our family is focusing on practicing kindness - to each other in choosing the words we use carefully.

Looking forward to seeing what everyone else is up to.

Loving right now....

2011-10-04T14:42:00.000-04:00

the beauty outside
our first egg from our chicks
these slow days that fly by... does this make sense? Before I know it, I look at the clock and it already says 11:00 am....
Abraham's person drawings
sweet little feet
our two week old Emmy!

Handmade Holiday - 2011

2011-10-03T09:15:00.001-04:00

I am using the same journal book as last season as there is still plenty of blank pages, but am adding a hand crocheted wool cover.

Each Monday I will be sharing in this space what I am working on for this year's holiday season. For sure, everything we give won't be handmade this year as I simply don't have the time to make everything, but my goals include:

at least one handmade item for each child and dear husband
what I do not get around to making, I plan to buy from other family businesses and local small businesses which will be very modest and thoughtful little somethings
handmade goodies for friends and family including food mixes, jellies, and baked goods
make some simple decorations for our home and table
keep things simple! - focus on the meaning of the season

You can read through last year's posts by typing "handmade holiday" in the "search this blog" box - scroll down and look on the left side of the blog.

I would love it if you would consider sharing your ideas and projects on Mondays with all of us by leaving a comment with a link to your post. (It can be an older post, it doesn't have to be a Monday post.)

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Autumn

2011-09-29T15:55:00.000-04:00

With Emily's birth just three days before the first day of autumn, and the days leading up to her birth being filled with waiting and preparing, I didn't give this new season much thought until the last couple of days - and autumn is just such a glorious season.

So with Abby and Sarah off with their grandparents this week, Abraham and I decided to do something about that.

One Week Old

2011-09-27T09:53:00.000-04:00

One week old this afternoon....

Life has slowed way down to a nicer speed, really. My pace had been much too rushed in the past.... this slowing down is so nice.

We are experiencing so much love with our new blessing. This is at times mixed with feelings of being overwhelmed and wondering how we are going to get all of our to-do list done before winter.

The children need us now, not tomorrow. Thomas needs to get to theater rehearsal, Abby to ballet, the boys to band practice... Emily needs to be held, Abraham needs to be read to. These things cannot wait. The barn can wait. The peeling paint can wait. The children cannot. This is our job right now.

I love this saying - "Just Do the Next Thing". That is what I am doing now... the next thing. What matters most. What must be done. And as I sit and nurse Emily my joy overflows and for the moment the rest fades away.

Peaceful

2011-09-23T16:15:00.001-04:00

We are all doing wonderfully. I feel great and Emily is a sweet and peaceful baby, yet very alert, strong and nursing well. My eyes have been shedding some happy tears when I gaze at her and am in awe over the amazing gift we have been given.

I have had all seven babies in a hospital with a midwife. I have some history of bleeding and never could get over the what ifs as much as I agree that home is also a wonderful place to birth.

At 11 days over and with some scheduling conflicts, my midwife called Monday afternoon and asked if it would work out to come in on Tuesday morning.

Mike and I arrived at the hospital at 6:30 am and my midwife arrived by 8:00 to break my water.

I was also overjoyed to find that a woman from our town that I know was the nurse who would be with me for the birth. Kitty is an amazing woman that sometimes joined in with our knitting group. She is kind, patient and I felt immediately at ease knowing she would be with us for the day.

This is my birthing gown that I have worn for all 7 births.

I am not going to get into the details of the birth on the blog but it was the most peaceful one I have had and I was so happy to not have to have any sort of intervention or needles or anything. It was quite empowering to labor through with God through prayer, Mike - my husband (an amazing birthing partner), Kitty and Lesley (the midwife), and the strength of my body to do what it was naturally intended to do. Emily was born at 4:50 that afternoon.

I requested to go home at the 24 hour after birth mark and this Emily at just 24 hours old.

It was just about dinner time when my family came to get me. The hospital staff had brought a meal which I hadn't ordered. Isaac and Abraham decided to help themselves to the milk.

Thank you for all of the kind wishes and thoughts.
Blessings,
Tonya

Emily Susan

2011-09-20T20:03:00.000-04:00

September 20th, 4:50 pm, 7 pounds 3 ounces, 20 inches

A Simple Saturday

2011-09-18T18:20:00.000-04:00

More Firewood

Music Playing by the Splitting and Stacking Spot

My Strong Husband

Abraham Hauling a Piece of Wood

Collecting Kindling

Burning Brush

Our 84 year old sweet neighbor came by for a visit on her golf cart. She loves the children and brought them for a ride which, of course, they love.

Harvested the Winter Squash

Finished with a mostly homegrown, home raised dinner of quiche and roasted potatoes.

Around the House

2011-09-15T15:06:00.000-04:00

This last picture is Abby's first apple pie. She made the crust from scratch and everything!

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Yarn Along - Question about Knitting Socks

2011-09-14T08:31:00.000-04:00

I was encouraged by Ginny's post last week to pick up this classic book at our little library last week. It is a great read so far. A book about a working poor family in Brooklyn... so interesting to compare and contrast with today's concepts of "poor" and also the idea of hope.

I have read another of Betty Smith's novels which I really enjoyed as well - Joy in the Morning.

At Melanie's recommendation (thanks Melanie!) I am following the free pattern for simple socks knit on four double pointed needles from lionbrand.com. It is exciting to think about not have to sew up seams. I am stuck though.... I am at the turning the heel point and have the correct number of stitches for the heel on one needle and understand about going back and forth but there is a stitch I have not been able to understand - is is Wrap and Turn. Can anyone explain this?

I look forward to visiting the other knitting and reading posts today hosted at Small Things.

(no baby yet....)

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Questions about Apple Tree Care

2011-09-12T08:56:00.000-04:00

I had lots of questions about how we care for our apple trees. To tell the truth, we are novices in this area.

Thus far all we have done is applied composted chicken manure under the canopy of each tree - that means extending it out to where the branches reach out.

Also, we followed the guidelines reading about pruning the trees and have done our best to do that each of the last two late autumns/early winters.

I think that living so far north, we are probably less likely to attract many of the insects that others may be prone.

Sorry I don't have much to share in this area as we are learning as we go along - some is probably luck and some is for sure trial and error.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Apples, Apples, Apples

2011-09-10T10:24:00.000-04:00

We have two mature apple trees on our little 3 acre homestead. They had been neglected when we moved in two years ago, but after dear husband pruned and fertilized them the last two seasons, we have been blessed with an abundant harvest of organic, healthy apples. Last year we planted a small apple tree because with our crew we could probably never have too many apples.

Since Monday we have made
~ two large batches of apple crisp
~ 1 1/2 quarts of apple sauce
~ apple muffins
~ two apple pies (one to give to a neighbor)

And we still have many more apples to go!

Knitting and Reading again for the Yarn Along

2011-09-07T09:10:00.000-04:00

I knit up this small lavender sachet the other day on a car ride and while waiting for our older son to audition for the musical, Jekyll and Hyde . The pattern is once again from the same knitting book I keep mentioning, Vintage Knits for Modern Babies.

I am just about finished with this book. It is filled with inspiring essays written by an Old Order Amish and an "Englischer" that became friends.

Looking forward to seeing what others are knitting and reading this week. Thank you to Ginny for hosting this wonderful weekly Yarn Along.

**On another note, I am going to begin Monday postings called A Handmade/Homemade Holiday where I will share a project I am working on and would love it if others might leave a comments with a link to their handmade/homemade holiday ideas.**

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Goats, Apples and Pumpkins

2011-09-06T09:31:00.000-04:00

The goats are growing. It is much fun to let them out of their fenced in area to graze. They don't go far as they like to stay near people.

Our apples trees are giving us beautiful apples this season.

This morning I am making our first apple anything since last apple season - apple crisp.

Everyone can't wait until it comes out of the oven.

Abraham picked up an apple and said, "One apple up on top."

Abraham is helping me stuff little calico pumpkins.

Just enjoying these moments while trying to keep my grumpiness under control from being tired due to lack of sleep. I am sure this must be God's way of getting new mothers ready for interrupted sleep in order to nurse in the nights to come.

Warm wishes,

Tonya

September Is....

2011-09-02T09:20:00.000-04:00

:: Pumpkins to make Pumpkin Pie, Bread, Soup

:: Finishing the Firewood

:: Bright Blue Skies

:: Wool Sweaters in the Morning and Evenings

:: Routines Returning

:: Sunflowers

and

:: A New Baby to Welcome

September is my favorite month for so many reasons. What does September mean to you?

Warm wishes,

Tonya

(We were blessed not to be too bothered by Irene here in northern Vermont. There was flooding to be sure which resulted in many roads being washed out. Thankfully I did not go into labor that night as it would have been a challenge to get to the main road. Not only was the road washed out but the end of our driveway had a large rut as well which would have made getting out difficult. We have a wonderful community here and our neighbor told the town roads worker as he drove by the evening of the storm and he filled in the rut for us to make it passable. We have been praying for all those who have suffered, but also hoping that the trials result in blessings as they so often do.)

Yarn Along - Easy Knitting and Easy Reading

2011-08-31T08:24:00.000-04:00

Joining in again this Wednesday (no baby yet...) with Ginny of Small Things to share two of my favorite things - knitting and reading.

I cast on to knit a very simple scarf - it is a basketweave pattern - knit two, purl two for two rows and then reverse that - purl two knit two for two rows. I am using a DK weight wool/merino blend from Peace Fleece in a soft mossy green/brown shade with little specks of color throughout and size 6 needles.

When the baby comes and so much of my time spent nursing I like to have several simple knitting projects kept in various locations where I would stop and nurse. This is a another simple project to join along with the shawl.

I finished up this enertaining and easy reading before sleep book - Whilstin' Dixie in a Nor'Easter by Lisa Patton.

I need some suggestions for some new reading.....

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Wool Felt Grasping Balls

2011-08-30T09:45:00.000-04:00

Sharing how to make some of these toddler grasping balls I have been sewing up lately.

Using wool felt, embroidery floss and wool roving to stuff -

The pattern measures 5 1/2" long and 3" wide.

You could embroider all kinds of things on each piece. (Do any of you know what to use to transfer patterns to wool felt?)

I attached the four pieces with the blanket stitch.

Enjoy and warm wishes,

Tonya

The County Fair

2011-08-29T11:28:00.000-04:00

Our family's first county fair - the older boys requested to meet friends there and the younger children were so excited to go. The joy on their faces as they went on the rides made it all worthwhile.

{this moment}

2011-08-26T10:25:00.000-04:00

Inspired by Amanda at SouleMama ~

{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.

~Sarah and Abraham cedar waxwing catching by the pond. We have been awed each evening as a flock of cedar waxwings fly over and around the pond catching insects. They actually will land on the sticks.~

More about Home Learning

2011-08-25T15:37:00.001-04:00

I have had several questions about what I like and don't like about various curriculum, so I thought I would share more about what we do.

First, we don't have a large budget to spend at all. Some years I have prayed that God would provide some materials from somewhere and then I would be blessed to find a whole stack of home school books at a yard sale.

This year I don't think we have spent over $1,000 for all five of our children. Cost is still a very large factor in our decision making. I do think, though, that even if we had lots of money to spend, I would want to be a good steward of our money and consider each item carefully.

I do enjoy many aspects of Oak Meadow. However, buying it new is out of our budget for sure. This year I was able to buy some used materials. I like their more varied, hands on approach with very little "fill-in-the-blank" kind of work.

We do follow much of the Waldorf inspired home learning in the early years by not stressing academics and instead letting the children be creative and artistic as much as possible.

This year I have been using some Rod and Staff with Sarah (age 7), because the lessons are quick and reading lessons are simple and repetitive which she needs. I also appreciate the Christian point of view. We have never had to actually "teach" reading with any of our other children so this has been a new process for me. I am also using Five in a Row with her as I think reading the same story to her each day for five days will help with her reading confidence. I also like the lessons idea that go along with each story. For example, we will read Ping on Monday and talk about China - look it up on the big roll out map on the floor, talk about how long the Yangtze River is and how many trips to Poppa's house that would be, etc...

For high school literature, we have been using the Learning Language Arts through Literature series. Thomas is doing British Literature this year and thoroughly enjoying it.

We were blessed to get two complete Saxon Math sets at a yard sale this year for only $20.00 which saved a lot of money.

I also really like the philosophy of Charlotte Mason. Thus, we add nature study, short lessons and the formation of habits in the younger years.

As you can see, we are truly eclectic home learners that keep ourselves open to what comes our way curriculum wise to keep spending down, while integrating educational philosophies that I agree with into what we have to work with.

I would love to hear from other home school families.

Warm wishes, Tonya

Homeschool Planning and Knitting

2011-08-24T08:57:00.000-04:00

Joining in this Wednesday with Ginny of Small Things. My time has been spent planning and reading through each of the children's homeschool planning for this year. I have a planner for each child.

I have finished knitting up another bonnet, small more little gnomes, and continue to work on my shawl.

Looking forward to checking out what others are knitting and reading.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

Organized Play Areas

2011-08-23T09:57:00.000-04:00

On my to-do list this week was to organize some areas for the younger children.

This is the kitchen and doll area.

This is the dress-up area.

To complete the rainbow silk set, I was lacking a blue and green silk (through the organization process, I weeded out all of the silks with holes in them). With just one blank silk, I decided to dye it green, and how could I make a dye bath and just dye one silk? So, I added a skein of Peace Fleece as well. The picture doesn't show the greens in yarn too well. But it they both came out with a nice mixture of shades.

God's Way

2011-08-21T16:28:00.000-04:00

With our seventh baby due within the next couple of weeks, I have to continually let go of my wants and my desires of when it would be best for labor to begin, how much I want to get done each day while not being as present as I need to be for my family, not enjoying the precious moments. I know I need to turn my life over to God each day, each hour and each second.

Today's church service was a great reminder that ~

Man's way is to do what I want, by my power, for my glory

God's way is to do what He wants, by His power, for His glory

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10

Warm wishes,

Tonya

Simple Joys

2011-08-16T10:46:00.000-04:00

Blowing bubble with homemade bubble mix.

Isaac working for our business.

Sarah's grasshopper home.

The beauty around us.

Johnny Jump Ups popping up among the weeds in the garden.

Abraham and Sarah nursing a sick chicken.

Warm wishes,
Tonya

A Live Performance

2011-08-15T08:39:00.000-04:00

Thomas, Nolan and Isaac performed Saturday at the Jay Summer Fest. They had a 30 minute slot and they spent their time rocking. An eclectic mix of rock, both new and old, including songs by Bon Jovi, Switch Foot, Night Wish, Guns n Roses, Green Day, and Ozzy Osborne...

It was fun to watch people my age stop to listen when they were playing Sweet Child of Mine.

And then when they finished, this group of young ladies asked to have their picture taken with them!

A Simple Knit Shawl Pattern

2011-08-10T09:18:00.000-04:00

(Joining in with Ginny this week for the Yarn Along because knitting and reading are two of my favorite things to do.)

On our way home from Maine, I started this very simple shawl. I have always wanted to knit a shawl for myself. After trying several too complicated for me patterns, (because I can't keep count when a child needs me or I have to get up and get the bread out of the oven...) I decided on this very simple pattern.

For this shawl I am using DK weight wool/mohair from Peace Fleece in Sea Moss on size 6 needles.

The pattern is as follows:

Row 1: CO 1 stitch

Row 2: kfbf (3 sts)

Row 3: Knit

Row 4: K1, Kfbf, K1 (5 sts)

Row 5: Knit

Row 6: K1, Kfb, K to last 2 sts, Kfb, K1

Repeat rows 5 and 6 until you have 11 stitches on your needle

Now for the rest of the shawl

K5 YO, Knit to the end.

See, simple?

I am still reading Lzarge Family Logistics and the second book in the Anne of Green Gables series.

Looking forward to seeing what you are working on and reading.

Warm wishes,

Tonya