Sunday, September 27, 2020

Monday's Strength: Psalms 14. Scrappy Love. Book Date.

 Monday's Strength:  Psalms 14

In Psalm 14, much focus is on the situation of the people.  I decided to focus on God's actions instead.  It appears that David feels surrounded by an evil, sin-filled environment.  However, I believe God remains hopeful as He is seeking those who understand Him, who seek Him.  
Are you feeling overwhelmed with dread?  It's quite understandable if you are. 

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Wednesday's Word: Psalm 13. Wednesday's Wrap Up. I Like Thursdays.

 Wednesday's Word: Psalm 13

Isn't life interesting?  There are highs and lows, hills and valleys, joy and pain.
David begins Psalm 13 with feelings of abandonment and defeat, 
but ended with rejoicing and praise.  What changed David's heart and attitude?  How did he go from defeat to victory? 

Monday, September 21, 2020

Monday's Strength. Scrappy Love. Pressing On. Book Date.

Monday's Strength:

Now that we've finished the verses from Until We Reach Home, I was wondering where to go from here.  For now, I want to share this verse that speaks of gratefulness.  
You see, we, my husband and I, had a COVID scare, but thankfully we both tested negative!   
As you can well imagine, it’s been hard to find time or even enough focus to blog or craft. 

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

Monday's & Tuesday's Strength: When Our World Collapses. Book Date. Pressing On.

Monday's Strength: When Our World Collapses
Continued study of some of the verses shared in Lynn Austin's Until We Reach Home.
When I was but a young girl, I asked Grandpa about married life. I was curious because I knew Daddy had been born during The Great Depression. I wanted to know how Grandpa had managed as not only was he supporting Grandma with a baby on the way (Daddy); he was helping to support his mother and siblings.

Sunday, September 13, 2020

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Wednesday's Word: Song of Songs 3:2a. Wednesday's Wrap Up Or Not. I Like Thursdays.

Wednesday's Word: Song of Songs 3:2a
Continued study of some of the verses shared in Lynn Austin's Until We Reach Home.
In this book, Sofia and Ludwig speak different languages. All they have is their Bibles and basic drawing skills to communicate. He/she would find a passage that explains their thoughts and share that passage with the other. As their time to separate nears, Ludwig shows Sofia this verse to reassure her that he will find her.
This made me think: What if all we had to communicate with our loved one were verses from the Bible?

Monday, September 7, 2020

Monday's Strength: Song of Songs 3:2. Machine Embroidery and Scrappy News! Book Date Reads! To Do Tuesday.

 Monday's Strength: Song of Songs 3:2

Continued study of some of the verses shared in Lynn Austin's Until We Reach Home.

In this book, Sofia and Ludwig speak different languages. All they have is their Bibles and basic drawing skills to communicate. He/she would find a passage that explains their thoughts and share that passage with the other. As their time to separate nears, Ludwig shows Sofia this verse to reassure her that he will find her.

Sunday, September 6, 2020

Saturday's Song: The Cross Has The Final Word. Slow Stitching: An Ornament & A Tea Towel. Stash Report.

 Saturday’s Song: The Cross Has The Final Word

Goodness gracious, how this song blessed me!  My dears!  Focus on Him and His grace!  You are saved! All is nailed to the cross that you might be free!

That is why Jesus died on the cross - for our freedom!

Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Wednesday's Word: Song of Songs 8:7. Wednesday's Wrap Up. I Like Books & The Real Mia!


Wednesday's Word:  Song of Songs 8:7
Continued study of some of the verses shared in Lynn Austin's Until We Reach Home.

This verse from the Song of Songs took my breath away.
I immediately thought of my marriage.  We have faced numerous challenges in our many years of marriage.  I'm sure we are not alone there.

Monday, August 31, 2020

Monday's Strength: Song of Songs 1:15. A New Scrappy Project Takes Off! Book Date Reads! To Do Tuesday.

Monday's Strength:  Song of Songs 1:15
Ludwig expresses his love for Sofia so beautifully! Interesting that he compares her eyes to doves. In fact, he states that they are doves. 
Matthew 3:16 and Luke 3:22 state that the dove is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. 
Could it be that he saw God in her eyes?

Sunday, August 30, 2020

Saturday's Song: Giants Fall. Slow Stitching: The Set is Finished! Stash Report.

Saturday’s Song: Giants Fall.
Remember the story about David facing the giant, Goliath? He killed him with a step in faith and a stone. Are we facing giants today? We sure are! Fires. Floods. Pandemics. Illnesses. Strife. The list goes on and on. 
With God, we need not be shaken!
The promises of God are innumerable!

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Wednesday’s Word: Psalm 66:2. Wednesday's Wrap Up: Pen Holder. I Like!

Wednesday’s Word: Psalm 66:2

I loved this part of Lynn Austin’s Until We Reach Home!  On the entire journey thus far, Ludwig constantly encourages Sofia with Bible verses.  This time, however, he is discouraged beyond words and, though she tries, no verse she shows him breaks his despondency. But then, she remembers her precious Mama.  Thank God for spiritual Mamas!

Sunday, August 23, 2020

Saturday's Song: You Got This. Slow Stitching: Tea Towel. Stash Report.

Saturday’s Song:  You Got This by Love and The Outcome

I was so happy to hear this upbeat praise song!  It reminded me when a dear friend of ours shared an encouraging Word.  He said that the LORD had told him (paraphrased), "Don't worry, I got this."


Let us share this message:  The LORD is capable, He has us in the palm of His hand!  He's got us!

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Wednesday's Word: Romans 8:28. Wednesday's Wrap Up. I Like!

 Wednesday’s Word:  Romans 8:28

There are so many parts to this verse that one can study, especially when we read it context!  But, to be honest, when I am struggling or a loved one is hurting, this is the verse that comes to me. 

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

Monday's Strength: John 14:1-4. Machine Embroidery: You're as Sweet as Can Bee! Book Date Reads!

 Monday’s Strength:  Psalm 27 and Isaiah 40

Lynn Austin continued with her them of finding a home in Until We Reach HomeThis verse has always brought me comfort in times of trouble.

The next two verses are encouraging reminders that we are never alone.  He will guide us and show us the way.

Sunday, August 16, 2020

Saturday’s Song: Known. Slow Stitching: Pressing Matters . Stash Report.

 Saturday’s Song:  Known

                

He knows us, warts and all, but still loves and pursues us.  

The lyrics of this entire song blew me away.  After all, how many people fully know us, warts and all, and truly love us.  Also, how many people do we fully know and truly love?  Ouch.  Right?
God's grace became even more apparent to me as I listened to this song with my spirit.  This part of the lyrics served to magnify God in my life even more:
 
"It's hard truth and ridiculous grace
To be known fully known and loved by You
I'm fully known and loved by You"
                                                   - from Known by Tauren Wells                Can we accept this awesome grace and run to Him?  

Slow Stitching:  Tea Towels and Pressing Matters
Despite my best intentions, they Friday Tea Towel has been languishing, patiently waiting to be stitched up.  Today her patience will be rewarded!  

I've been hand binding Pressing Matters as well.  I'm hoping to finish this quilt today!

 
Stash Report 8/14/2020
I've taken three projects to my LAQ and still binding Pressing Matters, so no fabric out this week.  Also, no fabric in, so the figures remain the same.
Fabric in
This week: 2.625 yards
Since April 1: 76.685
Fabric Out 
This week: 9.33 yards
Since April 1: 114.46 yards 
Difference: + 37.775

I've finished a few dish cloths, but am waiting until it's enough to make note of.  
Yarn In
This week: 0 ounces
Since April 1: 56.80 ounces
Yarn out
This week: 0 ounces
Since April 1: 87.50 ounces
Difference: +30.70

I hope you’ll visit these link up parties! 
Slow Stitching Sunday @ Kathy's Quilts
Sunday Scripture Blessings @ Peabea's Scribble Pad
Sunday Stash@ Quilt, Paint, Create

Your comments are so appreciated! I try to respond to each one via email!

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Wednesday's Word. Wednesday's Wrap Up. I Like Photos and Instagram!

Wednesday’s Word:  John 14:23 & 1-2 Updated 8-13-20
We're continuing studying the Scriptures in Until We Reach Home by Lynn Austin .  Sofia finds Ludwig and asks him for more verses to ponder.  He shares some verses regarding his dreams of forming a home in America as well as our heavenly home.  

Sunday, August 9, 2020

Saturday’s Song: Wake Up Dancin’. Slow Stitching: Finished 30's Table Topper . Stash Report.

Saturday’s Song:  Wake Up Dancin’


Last month was a tough one.  I found out a relative passed away....she and I wrote back and forth from the time I learned how to write.  As some of you are aware of, my memory is not the best.  I would tell my children, "If you ever want to know my secrets, call her.  She remembers them all and has my letters to prove it!"  LOL!  

Wednesday, August 5, 2020

Wednesday's Word: Psalm 22. Wednesday Wrap Ups: 1930's Baby Quilt/Table Topper! I Like Vintage Quilts

Wednesday's Word:  
Let’s continue with the verses from Until We Reach Home by Lynn Austin. As her sisters are hospitalized on Ellis Island, Sofia finds herself all alone waiting for them to recover. Her friend, Ludwig, shares yet more Scriptures with her. 

Monday, August 3, 2020

Monday's Strength: Psalm 107, part 3. A Scrappy Finish. Book Date. Pressing On.

Monday’s Strength:  Psalm 107:31-32

As I shared on before, I was so inspired blessed by the Scripture shared on PeaBeas’ Photos and Scribbles so much so that I’m writing a series on them.  Next up are verses 31 - 32. 

He stilled the storm to a whisper; 
the waves of the sea 
They were glad when it grew calm, 
and He guided them to their desired haven. 
Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love 
and His wonderful deeds for mankind. 
Let them exalt Him in the assembly of the people 
and praise Him in the council of the elders. 
Psalm 107:29-32 
Once we allow ourselves to be still enough to hear God’s voice and calm enough to be guided by Him, we will indeed give Him thanks for His unfailing love. What is unfailing love? A love that does not fail…
even in the face of rejection,
even in the face of fear,
even in the face of mistrust,
even in the face of anger.
His love is there, waiting to guide us to safe harbors.
Many times, after we have seen His wisdom, we praise Him for His unfailing love and we see His wonderful deeds for mankind.
Let us learn to exalt Him in the assembly of the people and praise Him in the council of the elders before we see proof of His mighty deeds, unfailing love and faithful guidance.
Amen?


Brown Baby Quilt

When I first started the Qube Crush QAL, I thought I would make a baby quilt/table topper for each square.  It was too ambitious of a goal for me, so I started making all four weekly squares at the end of the month.  My goal is to make a finished quilt by the end of the QAL. 

But, here is the first quilt I made with Block One of the Qube Crush.  This is definitely not one of my favorite finishes.  

I used some scraps I had on hand, but ran out of my original fabrics, so I pulled the lime green.  I'm thinking of adding some yo-yos to the center in that same green......we'll see if I can fix it up...

Book Date

It has been a fabulous sewing week, but lacking in reading time.  How do you make time for reading and sewing?  

I'm enjoying the The Library Book, but very curious how the author is going to tie everything up with the investigation.  So far, there is a lot of information about libraries, their workings and historical information.  Ms. Orlean offers her reflections on many topics, which I am finding quite interesting and enjoyable.  

Currently Reading

free ebook from RB Digital

Bless Me Ultima by Rodolfo Anaya
(free audio book on RB Digital)

Next Up

 

Pressing On
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14

Las week’s goals

1. Visit Mama and Daddy ✔

2. Machine Embroidery:  Finish up the last of the Xmas Decos (gifts)  

3. Continue my Thursday tea towel/secret sewing  

4. Finish flimsy for the Fall Table Topper X  I had a few squirrels in my sewing room!  This should be finished this week.  

5. Finish binding a new quilt. 


This Week's Goals

1. Visit Mama and Daddy 

2. Machine Embroidery:  Dish Towels

3. Continue my Friday tea towel/secret sewing  

4. Finish flimsy for the Fall Table Topper 

5. Get at least halfway finished binding my $7.50 30's quilt.

I’d love to hear what your crafty goals for the week are!

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? @ Book Date 
Monday Making @ Love, Laugh, Quilt
Oh Scrap! @ Quilting is More Fun Than Housework!
To Do Tuesday @ Home Sewn By Us (Tuesdays)

 Your comments are so appreciated!  

I read each one and will respond by email to you!  :)


Sunday, August 2, 2020

Saturday's Song: Everything He Forgot. Slow Stitching: 30's Table Topper. Stash Report


Saturday's Song:  Everything He Forgot

This song spoke to me on so many different levels… 

I have sinned. 
I have disappointed people. 
I have hurt others. 
I have…I have…I have…the list goes on and on. 
If I let myself, 
I can go to a 
dark place of 
unforgiveness and depression 
over my mistakes. 

But, praise God for His grace and for repentance! 

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Wednesday's Word: Psalm 107, Part 2. Wednesday Wrap Up. I Like New Recipes!

Wednesday’s Word:  Psalm 107, Part 2
As I shared on Monday, I was immensely blessed by the Scripture shared on PeaBeas’ Photos and Scribbles so much so that I’ve decided to do a series on them. Last Monday we looked at verse 29a. Today we’ll look at verses 29a – 30.

Sunday, July 26, 2020

Saturday's Song: Magnify. Slow Stitching: Dish Towels. Stash Report

Saturday’s Song:  Magnify by We Are Messengers

I was extremely excited to find this wonderful song with bilingual lyrics!  This verse is so true:

“My sight is incomplete and I made you look small
I've been staring at my problems for way too long
Realign where my hope it set
Until you're all that's left”

How much time do we - myself included - waste time looking at the problem instead of the Problem Solver? 

Monday, July 20, 2020

Sunday, July 19, 2020

Saturday's Song: I'm Gonna See A Victory. Slow Stitching. Stash Report.

Saturday’s Song:  I’m Gonna See A Victory
Wow, I read this article and was amazed how Scripturally based this song is!  What the defeated one means for evil, God means for good (Genisis 50:20)!  He really does. 
All of us at one time or other have had to face grueling circumstances, apparently abandoned by God, but He’s right there with us.  However, it’s perfectly fine to question, to argue, to be angry. 

Thursday, July 16, 2020

Oops. A Day Late...Wednesday's Word. Wednesday Wrap Up. Thursday Likes!

Wednesday's Word
I just finished the audio book, Until We Reach Home by Lynn Austin. One of the characters, Sofia, is separated from her sisters as they journeyed to America. She feels very alone and abandoned by God.

Perhaps some of us feel the same way as we quarantine. It’s conceivable that many of us are feeling abandoned by God.

It’s ok to feel that way: What’s important is what we do with those feelings.

Monday, July 13, 2020

Monday's Strength. My Bella Box. Book Date. Pressing On.

Monday's Strength
This week’s post will be a bit different. Mary from Hill Country Quilter I had a question about the Box of Hope I mentioned in last week’s post, so here’s a mini tutorial on how to make one along with my verse of the week.

Sunday, July 12, 2020

Saturday's Song - God's Not Done With You. Slow Stitching. Stash Report.

Saturday's Song - God's Not Done With You
My dears, no matter what is going on in your life, God is not done with you.  Have faith.  Believe.  Trust Him. He is faithful.  

We've all trembled, experienced faltering faith.  
He understands.
  

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Wednesday's Word. Wednesday's Wrap Ups. I Like....


Wednesday's Word

To fully grasp David’s words, I had to read 2 Samuel 15 – 18. Imagine David fleeing his own kingdom to escape his son’s murderous plot. David was incredibly broken and humbled as he fled for his life, yet, despite his circumstances, he continued to make wise decisions and trust in the LORD (2 Samuel 15:30, 2 Samuel 15: 11-12).

He was even forgiving toward his son, despite his murderous intentions (2 Samuel 18:5)! Not many can claim that type of grace – I know that I certainly can’t – God help me.

Monday, July 6, 2020

Monday's Strength: Psalm 62:6. Pressing Matters in Batiks. Book Date. Pressing On.

Monday's Strength

I once asked my pastor for guidance.  After sharing his wisdom, he concluded by saying, “Do not let this go.  It must be dealt with.”

Those were challenging words to hear, much less implement.  But I implement them I did. 

Sunday, July 5, 2020

Saturday's Song: Burn the Ships. Slow Stitching: Hexagon Afghan & Christmas Surprises. Stash Report.

Saturday's Song
Here is the link to a video with the lyrics.

“Burn the Ships” by For King and Country touches my heart and aroused my curiosity as to the origin on the title.  The story behind the song is here and is an encouragement to those who long to release the shame and guilt of their addictions.  Though “addictions” may lead one to think of drugs and alcohol, let us remember we all have addictions of one kind or another. 

Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Wednesday's Word. Pressing On. Wednesday's Wrap Ups. I Like....My Daughter, Bags and Pouches!


Wednesday's Word. 
Many of us take refuge in the Lord, especially during times of trials.  Yes, how many times do we hear an internal voice whispering these or similar discouraging words to our spirit?  And how many times do these words hit their mark and drive us to despair?  

Monday, June 8, 2020

Sunday, June 7, 2020

Saturday's Song. Slow Stitching. Stash Report.

So, I'm trying out the new Blogger platform.  I've noticed the songs don't come out on my IPhone unless I switch to the web version.  The fonts are coming out funky, but other than those two issues, I think this post is ok.  I hope so!  :)
Saturday's Song


Worn by Tenth Avenue North
Several years ago, a friend shared this song with me and then she shared it again recently.  I praise God for her.
George Floyd's murder left me shocked, worn and introspective.
Change must come.  
But first, in my opinion, we need to feel the emotions this latest murder has awaken.
Then, when we're ready, we will tell our hearts to beat again.  

Monday, May 4, 2020

Monday's Strength. 30's $7.50 Quilt. Book Date.

Monday's Strength
As promised, here is another tool that I'm using to encourage myself.  It is a theme based Scripture writing plan by Shannon over at Sweet Blessings. April's theme was "But God"   
I first heard about "But God" verses in a sermon by Pastor Dale.  He said to pay attention when we read/hear "But God".  Then, last week, I found Shannon's amazing Scripture writing plan. Talk about a God wink!

Here's part of today's verses:

Sunday, May 3, 2020

Saturday's Song. Slow Stitching. Sunday Stash Report.


Saturday's Song
Does it feel like your're facing another heartbreak day?

Here's the lyrics if you'd like to reflect more on them.
Keep moving on my Dear Reader.  
Let me be honest.  
This. Quaratnine. Is. Tough. 
I'm struggling just like you are.
  
I have days that I all I can do is sleep. 
I bet you have, too.
I have days that I cry.
I bet you have, too.
I have lonely days.
I bet you have, too.
I have days that I am close to losing hope.
I bet you have, too.
My family has experienced great loss alone during this time.
I bet some of you have as well.

But God is faithful.  He is here.  He is trying to grow a new thing, a new me, a new you, a new world.  

The LORD is working through my church's sermons to keep me moving.  Today's sermon  made a few good points.  Here is one of my takeaways.    
Whose voice will I listen to?  Will I be like the person Pastor talked about who read the newspaper with the Bible next to them?  They didn't let the newspaper tell them what was going to happen, instead they read what God had to say about the future.  But God says....
Will I view circumstances through the lens of hope/hoplessness? 

His sermon as well as his sermon notes are a huge part of my victorious journey via these times.  
Let's reach out and share what is getting us through this journey.  Let's move toward victory and growth together.  
Let's move toward our LORD Jesus Christ.  

This week I will be sharing how God gave me one amazing tool that led to another amazing tool.  Let's listen to Him and move with Him!  Amen?

Slow Stitching
This week's slow stitching has been a mix of crochet and embroidery. 
The yarn is Mini Moochi by Crystal Palace Yarns and is color 105.  I don't know the name, but I'll call it beautiful! It also has a special memory - my husband and I went on a special "buy what you want" visit to a yarn boutique.  And, boy, did I ever indulge!     

Stash Report
Fabric in
This week:  no change
This year: (since April 1) 7.5 yards
Fabric out
This week:  no change
This year: (since April 1) 20.56

Yarn In
This week:  0 ounces
This year (since April 1) : 0 ounces
Yarn out
This week:  0 ounces
This year: 42 ounces

Blessings to all!
Linking up!  

Sunday Stash@ Quilt, Paint, Create
Sunday Scripture Blessings @ Peabea's Scribble Pad
A Spirit of Simplicity


Your comments are so appreciated!  I read each one and will respond by email to you!  :)

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Hope.I Like.

Hope
This is the geranium that my son-in-law got me for Mother's Day several years ago.  I've taken good care of it, but despite my efforts, this last winter, it looked like I had lost it to a freeze.  I kept it in the shade by the pond and watered it faithfully even though it just looked like a pot of dirt.  And look what happened!"
With just a bit of hope, TLC and perseverance, we can be amazed by God's works!


I Like
 LeeAnna over at Not Afraid of Color hosts an "I Like" link up party.  This week I'm happy to join in the fun.  

I like being surprised....I thought this plant and its friends were weeds.  After a bit of patience, I realized that they are ready to bloom!  A friend thinks they may be lilies....we'll see!
I love making gifts for my daughter!  
These crocheted hangers 
are one of her favorite gifts.  
Before the stores closed,
I was lucky enough to find the 
same yarn that I used for 
her wedding afghan!
I'm beginning to really like my husband's doggie, Chico!  He used to really annoy me, but he's maturing nicely!
I like finding misplaced completed projects!  This one was in my "to frame" basket that I forgot I even created!  The embroidery design is by Mollie Johanson at Wild Olive.  She reblogged about this pattern as it is so appropriate for these times that we are living in. 

Her post is amazingly calming and healing.  

Linking up to 
Lea Ann's "I Like" Thursdays

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Wednesday's Word. Wednesday Wrap Ups. Pressing On.

Wednesday's Word

Today's word is for those of us who love people who make/have made hurtful choices.  First of all, you are not alone.  I'll say it again, you are not the only one who loves someone who makes hurtful choices.  I write from personal experience.
God gave me three points to write about:
1) Let go of the guilt.  You did not cause the situation, you cannot control the person and you can't cure them.  You can only take care of yourself.  
2) Rebuke those who judge and make insensitive remarks about your loved one.  I saw this on  @tobymacspeaklife Instagram account:
It gave me a new perspective not only on the words spoken to me, but more importantly on the words I chose to speak.
3) Look for the blessings your loved ones have brought into your life!  Not only look for them, but make a list of these blessings and share it with them and others!
4) Remember Romans 8:28:

All Things.  Everything. Period.
That one is a tough one, but it's true.
Alcohol abuse.
Drug abuse.
Arrests. 
Cancer. 
Abuse. 
Pain. 
Brokeness.
All. Things.
Dear one, Sometimes our blessings come through tears, yes?   Hold on to your faith, your love, your God.  Fight the good fight!  Toby Mac's "Elements" video is powerful!


Here is a video with the lyrics as well.  
So, Dear One, hold your head high, have faith in the all-powerful, loving, wise God that we serve, love your special person without rescuing them as you believe God will be there for them!



Wednesday Wrap Ups 
My finish this week is an gift for a dear friend's daughter who is an arts major, a theater arts major I believe.  I knew she would love something colorful and eclectic - and something that breaks all the rules.  
With the closure of craft stores, I used what I had on hand an prayed for the best.  I also stitched as I went along.  No one panel is exactly the same!  But somehow, it all came together, just barely covering a queen sized bed.
This beauty is called  "A Beautiful Hot Mess".  I love how it turned out almost as much as I love the recipient!  Enjoy, my dear one!





Pressing On
Last time my goals were:
1.  Visit with Daddy and Mama via FaceTime. 
2.  Garden 
3.  Make more face masks 
4.  Sew for fun. 
This Week's Goals
1.  Visit with Daddy and Mama via FaceTime. 
2.  Garden 
3.  Finish compensating strips for my 30's $7.50 quilt.  Yup, it needs some help.  
4.  Read - I want to read again!  Yea!

Take care my dear Reader, take good care!

Check out these fun parties!

Your comments are so appreciated!  I read each one and will respond by email to you!  :)