Stoneybrooke Cottage - Living This Vintage Life

Chocolate Mystery Lovers Contest & HOPE!

2011-05-24T12:08:00.000-05:00

"Hoards" of my blog fans are crossing their fingers and breathlessly awaiting this announcement. ;) So I shall delay no longer. WHO is the winner of the Chocolate Mystery Lovers Contest?

Sweet hubby picked a random number from 1-10, and our very own Kate, of AnxiousDog fame, won the coveted Chocolate Mystery Lovers Contest! She receives this fun book, Knit, Purl, Die that I reviewed in a previous post, and a few other surprises I shall throw in just to make her smile.

Now my plan was to include a deliciously, decadent chocolate gift in that package but I'm not sure if Kate's low carb way of life allows for that.

Kate has transformed herself since I've known her. She has always been beautiful, smart and a good friend with a great heart. But she has now added skinny super model to the list. Well, to be honest, I don't know if she is modeling professionally but she COULD! She is an inspiration to me to continue my quest for LESS of me. So... Kate... drop me a line and let me know if it's okay to include chocolate?

Thanks to everyone who participated. Truly. It's much more fun to have a contest when people actually enter to WIN! And I plan on hosting more fun giveaways in the future so stop by again to see what amazingly fun thing might be next. (I LOVE giving away prizes!)

I've cut this post short to make room for something that is weighing heavy on the minds of Missourians today. It's been in the news but I don't know how widespread that news has been so I will share this. Joplin, MO is just a little over an hour away from me and they were hit very hard with a deadly tornado this weekend.

Convoy of Hope is an organization based out of Springfield, Mo. They have provided very real help to people in need around the world, and they are now working in their very own backyard providing much needed help to survivors of this disaster.

I'm sure many at Convoy of Hope and the other rescue workers have connections to people in Joplin, which makes the relief effort that much more heartbreaking.

If you would like to help, please give whatever you are able to Convoy of Hope or any of the other organizations listed in the ABC News article provided in the link above. Most of all, please PRAY. Many families are still awaiting news about the welfare of loved ones in Joplin.

To everyone who has faced or IS FACING life shaking events...

¹GOD IS our Refuge and Strength [mighty and impenetrable to temptation], a very present and well-proved help in trouble.
²Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains be shaken into the midst of the seas,
³Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling and tumult. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

Psalm 46 Amplified Bible

My friends, God is VERY present in your life. He is not just mildly interested in your hurts, needs, troubles or disasters. He's really HERE with you and His track record for helping in times of trouble is "well-proved." He is committed to help you with every bit of who He IS... holding back nothing. He is here with you at the epicenter of your need. You can trust Him to help you in your time of trouble. I'm trusting in God today. I hope you are too.

With Love,

Linda/Stoneybrooke

Knit, Purl, Die!

2011-05-17T14:45:00.002-05:00

The sun is yawning bright in the heavens.

God's most pure azure blues sleepily stretch across sky.

And a cashmere soft breeze whispers... "come play"

I'm ready to dig my bare little piggies
into warm grains of sand,

settle myself into a secluded spot,
with an ice cold glass of tea,

and escape into one of my
favorite guilty pleasures.

Most everyone I know reads literary works or self help books found on... New York Times Best Sellers, Oprah's Book Club, and College Reading Lists... I prefer what I call chocolate mysteries.

No need to equip yourself with a tablet and highlighter, the pages of chocolate mysteries are best turned with care-free, chocolate stained finger tips. You don't learn anything from them. You are not a better person for having read them. You really can't gather quotes from them to amaze your friends or paste on Facebook.

However, you CAN escape to distant places. Meet interesting people. Match wits with really smart people whilst solving a classic "who-dun-it." AND goodness and justice always WIN!

Two fun books I just finished reading are classic CHOCOLATE MYSTERIES. But these books by Anne Canadeo, have a few little extras that make them a really fun read for knitters. They are called Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries. The common location they share is a seaside community (reminds me of my roots in Sunny Southern California) which is home to the bustling yet homey knitting shop and hangout known as the Black Sheep.

The members of the local knitting group seem prone to awfully bad luck, though, having already had several murders and I'm only two books into the series. lol

What I love...

There is no bad language and the murders are NOT graphically described in vivid detail. And there are no lurid sex scenes. Not everyone is a saint though. Obviously, or else there wouldn't be a mystery to solve, or any interesting characters to implicate.

This is not the quality of Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, or Hercule Poirot but it is a fun read for those who enjoy matching wits in a story that won't keep them up at night or give them nightmares. It's just fun, light, entertainment. (If you find murder mysteries entertaining. lol)

Brownie Points...
(Brownies are a favorite of this chocolate lover.)

I've given this book extra brownie points for the patterns and recipes in the back which allow you to knit the projects and taste the food they enjoy in the book. How fun is that?!

Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries

I suggest starting with #1 While My Pretty One Knits (Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries)

This one showcases a notorious rivalry between knitting shops that ends in murder.

People are falsely accused. Red herrings are thrown out to confuse you. But we knitters are not to be fooled with! We figure out the solution before the police do, whilst knitting complicated patterns with fabulous yarns!

Of course we do!

I just closed the book on Knit, Purl, Die (Black Sheep Knitting Mystery)

I started this one on a get-away I shared with my hubby last winter. It was a charming bed and breakfast. Just an overnighter, but both hubby and I enjoy reading on vacation, so I bought this book just for the title! Love it... Knit, Purl, DIE! lol

I must admit that I didn't get very far in reading it, only having one evening and all. I actually ended up getting the ebook version to finish reading on my phone. I always forget to bring a book along but I usually have my phone with me.

This charmer brings the evil doer even closer to the safety of the Black Sheep knit shop. I don't want to spoil it for you but I did change my mind a few times as to who the guilty party was.

I only have one complaint ;)

The central character in Knit, Purl, Die is described as "a cougar" having scored a much younger husband and she seems to have undergone all sorts of cosmetic enhancements needed to keep her AGE from showing. I pictured this woman as MUCH OLDER than the 52 year old woman we discover her to be. REALLY?! 52? Is that really OLD now?!!!

Well I put aside my bruised pride and determined to enjoy the story anyway. It proved to be a fun read too.

A Contest! You could be a winner too!!!

IF YOU READ THIS REVIEW CLOSELY, you'll notice that I ended up with BOTH the ebook and the paperback copy of this book. So I thought I would have a...

CHOCOLATE MYSTERY LOVERS CONTEST

In 1 WEEK, MAY 24th, I'm giving away my paperback copy of...

KNIT, PURL, DIE!

to 1 lucky winner!

You do NOT need to be a knitter to enter the contest or to enjoy this book. All you have to do is leave a comment here on this post and you will be entered to win. (The winner will be drawn randomly by my sweet hubby.)

What's next?

I think I shall follow this fun group of knitters on their next adventure A Stitch Before Dying (Black Sheep Knitting Mystery)

Today I leave you with a thought from my Bible reading yesterday. I was reading from the Amplified Bible and I came across this verse in Psalm 97 vs 11. (Emphasis is mine.)

LIGHT is sown for the [uncompromisingly] righteous and strewn along their pathway, and JOY for the upright in heart [the irrepressible joy which comes from consciousness of His favor and protection].

These are rich rewards for pursuing a godly life.

* No matter how dark or evil the world around you may seem, no matter how difficult or impossible or bad your situation may appear, when you belong to God, HE is in control. Your job is to concentrate on living right, WITHOUT COMPROMISE, and God will get you through safely. You will find your difficult path strewn freely with light (direction, hope, insight, wisdom, comfort.) You will clearly see the goodness of God in your difficult situation that others often miss.

* Having an upright heart to me means having a clear conscience. It means, being a person who seeks to DO what is right in God's eyes, not just outwardly for others to see, but from the center of who you are. Yet, that same person acknowledges her failures humbly and promptly asks for forgiveness and receives it freely. That is a person who is able to live in unfettered JOY! No hiding in shame or feelings of deserving misfortune. Instead, the person with the heart that is right with God KNOWS, CONSCIOUSLY KNOWS, that she is the blessed recipient of her Heavenly Father's FAVOR and PROTECTION. He has her best interest at heart. And she KNOWS God is worthy of complete trust, like a newborn knows nothing but trust for the mother who gave her birth.

My prayer for you and for me is that we will daily live that good and godly life, marked by LIGHT and irrepressible JOY!

Thanks for stopping by my cottage.

Hugs

Linda/Stoneybrooke

I'm a WINNER!... Part 1

2011-05-13T13:12:00.001-05:00

It's not often that I hear

"YOU WON!"

But that's EXACTLY what I heard

just a few short days ago from

the Queen of Yarn herself,

Kathy Elkins

www.yarn.com.

I'd like to say it was because of some amazing skill or personal quality, but I simply twittered about a crochet project... THAT'S ALL!

Quick diversion to a flashback... traveling back in time with Stoneybrooke!

I was just a wee thing and convinced that I would never win anything because Hobo Kelly NEVER chose me as the recipient of amazing toy prizes. I always felt so rejected every time she called out another name that was NOT mine.

It wasn't until I grew up that I realized that it wasn't that Hobo Kelly liked ALL the OTHER kids best. She simply couldn't draw my name as a WINNER because I never sent in a contest entry. Lesson learned!

Well Kathy Elkins has changed all that! Because my prize package arrived on Wednesday and I'm ready to share my loot with y'all. (And remember, Kathy likes ALL of us just the same!)

It was such a great gift assortment that I decided to post about them separately, hence the "Part 1" label on this post.

PART 1... Chic.a Zipper Pouch!

There are so many things I like about this gift!

The pouch has the zipper on the front. It's nicely constructed so things don't fall out. Always a plus in my book.

I also love that it has a clear viewing window in the front so I don't have to remember what is inside because I can see without even opening it.

The fabric that it is made from is a stiffened, perhaps laminated fabric? It holds its shape and melty chocolate bits won't ruin it... not that I ever snack on chocolate mind you... ;)

It's darling!!!!

I'm not sure how I prefer to use it?

It was made for tossing in your knitting bag to keep important accessories close. Did I mention that it sure looks like a random needle, pin, or scissor tip will be safely contained INSIDE the pouch. I love that feature.

But look how great it is for holding makeup! My current makeup bag is spotted with random bits of lipstick and liner. And my old bag is NOT washable. I wouldn't throw this in the washing machine but it would wipe down easily with a damp cloth.

Did I mention the cute patterns it comes in? Black toile, Cherry, Strawberry, and PINK are favorites!

And it comes in a larger 9x6 size too!

So my heartfelt thanks to Kathy Elkins for this lovely little gem. It looks just as ready for Summer as I am!

And my heartfelt thanks to all of you for stopping by Stoneybrooke Cottage.

----------------------------------------------

As we part, I'd like to leave you with this thought...

Don't let the disappointments of this life rob you of the truth of just how special you are to your Heavenly Father. You are not defined by prizes, gifts, successes, looks or money. You are the beloved child of your Heavenly Father. His pride and joy. He loves YOU best of all. :) (And that's okay because He loves ME best too!)

Linda/stoneybrooke

Changing the crowd I hang out with!

2011-05-10T16:13:00.001-05:00

When I embarked on this path to the new "Stoneybrooke-lite" version of me, I received some very wise advice from my friend Tabitha's Heart. She told me...

"Fruits and Veggies Are Your Friend."

I must admit that I found that hard to swallow. I know they are "health food" and what every "child" should eat to grow healthy and strong, but FRIENDSHIP?!!

My best friends are all, cookies, cake and ice cream! WE don't hang around with the cool kids on campus. Fruits and veggies are wasted calories that are to be saved, like the DIET SODA I order, so that I may spend quality time with my REAL FRIENDS... DESSERT!

I mean... CAKE really knows how to PARTY! ;)

But... I'm beginning to have a change of heart. Shocking, I know!

On Weight Watchers Points Plus program, most fruits and veggies are FREE! Even if I have spent my points for the day, if I'm hungry I can always treat myself to fruits and veggies, guilt free!!! I still love an occasional treat, but I've come to realize that Tabitha is right. My REAL FRIENDS are fruits and veggies!

Hanging out with this new crowd of friends has made me 24 lbs lighter so far.

Granddaughter Ailish and
Stoneybrooke-lite
We have such fun together!

I still have a long way to go but I'm learning that fitting into my clothes is much more fun than growing out of them. I've also learned that I have less pain when I have less weight to carry.

But to keep up the good progress, I have to keep hanging out with the "RIGHT CROWD".

So I've treated myself to a few goodies to make it easier for me. Maybe they will help you too?!

Welcome to the new addition to my cottage...

Stoneybrooke's Favorite Things!

Here's the story: Those of you who know me personally, or on Ravelry, or Facebook, or Twitter, know I'm an enthusiastic FAN of fabulous things.

(Hey, everyone has to be good at something, right? lol)

So I decided to begin sharing some of my favorites right here on my blog.

What's helping me to lose weight or live healthier?

What inspires me in my relationship with God?

What crafts am I enjoying?

What fibers am I playing with?

What knitting or crochet projects am I lovin'?

What vintage treasures have I found?

Or, what simply fabulous new idea have I heard about?

You you will find ALL the things that I use and LOVE RIGHT HERE!

Today I have 2 great Favorites to share with you.

THIRTY-ONE THERMAL LUNCH TOTE

This is a thermal lunch tote from the trendy new company thirty-one. They have so many wonderful bags for organizing every area of your life. You can even get them personalized!

Side note: I have "Phyllis", the bag you will see when you click on the link above. She is a light, but ample Summer bag with supple, comfy handles and a lean silhouette. Hugs for Phyllis. :) (Every bag should have a name don't you think?)

Another side note: I saw someone on Ravelry who got a tote with lots of pockets, then personalized it with their Ravelry username and uses it as a knitting bag. I didn't find that clever idea in time, but I still love my bag.

Back to the topic.... Yaay for my new cheery lunch tote! It makes me happy just looking at it. It holds a bottle of ice cold water, and lots of healthy snacks and lunch fixin's so I'm not tempted to hit the drive-through when I get hungry. It also has a pocket on the back where you can place a few napkins or a love note. I try to remember to fill it and take it with me whenever I go out, even if I think it's just a short trip. And it has an easy wipe clean exterior and thermal interior.

FYI: I bought my bag from Brooke. She is a young Mom and great Nixa, MO neighbor to my own Brianne.

RUBBERMAID

GLASS STORAGE CONTAINERS

with

EASY FIND LIDS!

I also treated myself to these Rubbermaid Glass containers with easy find lids!

A few weeks ago, I threw a tantrum whilst trying to find a matching lid for my aged and yellowed plastic ware. To restore my inner calm and encourage my new healthier eating habits, I decided to invest in a few of these containers.

I have been a BIG FAN of AMAZON for many years now. I use their Amazon Prime program to get FREE SHIPPING!

I love being able to read the reviews before I purchase and who wouldn't want someone to bring your purchases right to your front door?

How do I love thee?

Let me count the ways!

* RED: Luscious Red lids. I love red. :)

* OVEN and MICROWAVE SAFE: Use the bowl in the oven up to 425 degrees. Lid may be used in the microwave but it should be cracked open a bit to prevent excessive pressure in the container. My son Jared had an unfortunate experience with microwave pressure cooking.

* DISHWASHER SAFE: If I were going to cook in this container, I would give it a quick spritz of non-stick cooking spray first and then throw it in the dishwasher when I was through. Though I must confess that I use these more for fresh fruits and veggies and reheating food in the microwave. The lid washes in the top rack of your dishwasher (separate sturdy grey gasket from lid before washing for best results)

* STORING and SERVING: The 4 cup capacity bowls are glass. (Though I noticed that the smaller, mixed size set is what Amazon now has available on Prime. I've seen these too and think they would be handy. They do carry the 4 cup but not on Prime right now.)

These little beauties can go right from your fridge to your table and back without dirtying more serving dishes. They would be great to take along to potluck dinners too! I fill them with fruits, veggies and healthy dips, and set them out at every meal for healthier eating. I encourage seconds of these!

* EASY FIND LIDS: The tops are sturdy BPA FREE plastic with a clear viewing window on the top so you can easily see what is inside. They are designed with an extra sturdy, removable gasket, that is not the flimsy, frustrating gaskets I've used in the past. These lids nest together and clamp lightly to the bottom of the container, removing all doubt about "will this lid fit?"

* STACKABLE: The containers and the lids all nest with one another, creating an orderly look in your cabinet or refrigerator. They aren't likely to topple over either. What's not to love about that?

Juicy pineapple chunks, kumquats, and lean ham... yum!

Things just LOOK more appetizing in them.

* HELPFUL FOR DIETERS: If you are really organized like my son-in-law Bryan and my daughter Brianne, you will prepare all your fruits and veggies when you come home from the store so they are ready for snacking whenever you are hungry.

* GIFT WORTHY: The set would make a thoughtful and affordable gift for a newly married couple. (Beats giving them plastic baggies!)

What's NOT to love?!!!

* PRICE: These are more expensive that disposable plastic ware. I think they are worth it but if you are on a budget you may want to pick them up one or two at a time. I bought 2 at a time and now have a whoppin' 4! Woot! The pack Amazon is featuring has 3 graduated sizes with lids for UNDER $20!

* HEAVY: This is not a thin thrift store glass but a sturdy and thick, quality glass product. But glass is heavier than plastic. It is also breakable. I wouldn't send these to school with the kids or lug it around in my purse all day. I also wouldn't throw it on the floor and expect it to stay intact.

So those are my favorites for the day! And be sure you always read directions and safety precautions for yourself.

I hope YOU have been hanging out with a better crowd. Your friends, Your family, and YOU need you to be your healthiest so that you can enjoy this life God has given you, to the fullest.

WHAT'S COMING? Look for upcoming posts on a new, soon to be released pattern I'm knitting from Tabitha's Heart named the "Green Chic" bag! LOVE! :)

Thanks for stopping by!

"Why do they keep killing Jesus?"

2011-04-23T14:23:00.000-05:00

This season I am particularly reminded of just HOW MUCH Jesus loves us.

I was never able to bring myself to see the Passion. I have participated in Easter dramas at Church, though, and find them chilling to the bone. Likewise, my son didn't understand the reason for our re-enactment of the Easter story in church when he was younger. I remember him sitting in the pew with his head buried in his hands, squeezed in the safety of my hug, almost pleading...

"Why do they KEEP KILLING JESUS!"

Good question...

It hurts to look crucifixion in the face. The first part of this story doesn't feel good AT ALL! But, in truth, His gift to us takes on renewed significance when we are reminded of the REAL PERSON, Jesus Christ, who chose to suffer for our sin, in our place. Though He was the Son of God, He was a real person. He felt what WE FEEL. His pain was just as intense and real then as it would be if you and I were brutally MURDERED the same way today.

I don't like to think about this. But I do it for my own good.

It's for OUR own good. So we will NEVER forget or take Him for granted. We have a tendency to do that. We take life's blessings for granted. We take people we love for granted. More astoundingly, we take GOD for granted.

Let's give REAL gifts this Easter...

Taking things for granted - I was reminded of that unfortunate aspect of human nature in a recent podcast started by Arielluria. She is a fellow Raveler. Her podcast is called Fruto Das Maos. If you are an English speaker skip the first chapter in Portuguese and go straight to the English. She first talks about the fiber projects she is working on (always interesting things on her needles) and then she gives a short but thought provoking devotional from her heart. This time she was discussing God's desire for us to give Him GENUINE gifts. Genuine offerings of praise and thanksgiving.

Not out of duty
Not because of tradition or habit
Not thoughtlessly or absentmindedly

In fact, IF your gift to Him is not genuinely heartfelt... HE DOESN'T WANT IT.

Just like we desire a REAL relationship with OUR children, our Heavenly Father wants a REAL relationship with US!

When I think about Jesus dying on the cross for me because God wanted a real relationship with me, frankly, I feel...

humbled

BLESSED

and Thankful!

So, Heavenly Father, I stand here loving you with all my heart saying "Thank you!!!"

Love,

Linda

New ME... New YOU!

2011-04-06T17:05:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you can have TOO MUCH of a good thing. I've BEEN "too much" for quite some time now. I have accomplished reaching pregnancy weight without benefit of being "with child." While this may seem like a noteworthy accomplishment, it's one I had never hoped to achieve.

I'm the fluffy one on the left and
my beautiful sister-in-law Ruthann is on the right

Enter into this picture my good friend Tabitha from Tabitha's Heart. It's a really GOOD friend who shares something that is helping them and that's just what Tabitha did for me. She introduced me to the new Weight Watchers program Points Plus online. I have a little app on my phone that helps me track how many points I've used for the day and I'm never hungry because most fruits and vegetables are FREE!

I'm loosing weight and that is quite an accomplishment for me. So stay tuned as I travel this road to discovering a new "reduced fat" version of ME. If you are too much of a good thing too, why not join me? I don't get a commission from this info-mercial, it's just my way of being a good friend to YOU. It's only been about a month and I'm already feeling better and my clothes fit better too.

So, I'm shedding a few pounds and soaking in the sunshine of crisp Spring breezes...

I think it is time to update OUR look!

You Are Cordially Invited To...

My VIRTUAL Mary Kay Party!!!

Some of you already know that I have used Mary Kay for EVER! Technically I'm a pseudo Mary Kay consultant BUT I am my only customer. lol I order a few basics once a year.

HOWEVER... throughout the year, when it's time to freshen my look for a new season and really find out what is new and fabulous in Mary Kay my "go to" person is Deanna Epps! Our families work together, but this Mary Kay business is fully hers and she is accomplishing her dreams. I'm so proud of her!

She seems to know everything that is going on in the world of Mary Kay and she always seems to know what I like and introduces me to great products that I love. She is a hard working woman and she has been working VERY hard to accomplish some big goals this year and I wanted to help her reach them.

She didn't ask me to make this blog post but I figure we women need to support one another. She plans on being ONSTAGE at the big Mary Kay wingding in Dallas this year. That's a BIG DEAL! And I think we should help if we can.

-------------------------

Here is how we can help Deanna...

1. Today, I'm going to SHOW you my current Mary Kay favorites straight from my makeup bag. Right here on my blog. (Just pretend you are in my living room, minus the dog treats, knitting works in progress, and the permeating smell of coffee.) The products show that I've been using them. BUT you will get fresh NEW products. And I'll tell you what I like about them. These are just my opinions and not official Mary Kay statements.

2. You LOOK at my favorite products :) (Easy so far, right?)

3. If you see something you like, CLICK on the link and order it from her website. (Clicking is easy)

4. If you want SAMPLES of something, type a note in the comment box. (Free samples are always good)

5. If you order something, mention my name or this blog in the comment box and who knows I might earn a new lipstick myself! (But PLEASE only order if you love something. Of course, I hope you will love the things I share with you as much as I do.)

THAT'S IT!

No pressure. No phone calls. No commitment. You may even wear your jammies whilst you browse. Just look and IF you like what you see, place an order. If ordering right now isn't in your budget, you might bookmark her web address for your convenience at a later date. I won't be checking up on you and neither will Deanna, so order as much or as little as you like. You may select the links below and I'll whisk you right to the appropriate internet page to see these items, or you may browse for yourself at: marykay.com/deannaepps

So.... DRUM ROLL.... Here are my Top Picks for SPRING!!!!

FRESH PEACH! Satin Hands

My skin is dry and parched after winter. Satin hands is how I quench that thirst. And this fresh peach scent is new to me. Deanna gave me a sample, and I'm going to order the BIG size!

It's not a sickly perfume-y smell but fresh peachy smell. I LOVE this scent! I think Deanna says it comes in Vanilla too! You may buy it as a set or as individual pieces too. Personally I think the Extra Emollient cream on the left is an important part of the process and it's one that other scrub systems do not include to my knowledge.

Fresh Spring Scent... Thinking of You!

I like to pack away my rich, deep wintery scents when Spring hits and I select a fragrance that is lighter, perhaps a little bit sweeter. I don't typically go too sweet but I think this is a nice balance of sweet Spring breeze with a touch of meadow flowers anchored by a bit of a natural musky scent. This is a very lightly scented perfume and it just brightens my mood when I put it on.

Petal Kissed Lips

I've put away the deep burgundies and sultry bronzes of Fall and Winter and I'm now sporting lips that look like they have the slight kiss of a rose petal. This is a very neutral pink that I think many people could wear. It gives your face a little lift like you've been out in the garden.

Blush Tinted Lip Balm SPF 15. A blend between a nourishing chapstick and a beautiful lipstick. It's the perfect thing to wear by itself to protect and make your lips look more youthful at home or at work or even at the beach, or you can pair it with liner and/or a gloss to wear it out for the evening.
Dusty Pink Lip Liner. I know many ladies don't use lip liner any more but when your lips are fading in color from age, there is nothing like lip liner to brighten and define your smile. It seems to wear longer than just lipstick alone, so I often stain my entire lip area with the liner before applying a nourishing balm or gloss. Then even if my bottle of water removes my gloss, my lips still have color. This color is a favorite because it works as a neutral for me. I can use it with neutral brown, burgundy, or pink tones. It's also a favorite because you never have to sharpen it. Just twist it and apply it.
Coral Rose Lip Gloss. I love wearing gloss. This color is even prettier on than it is in the bottle. It goes on lightly meaning the color is not dense but it's enough to change the color of your underlying color or lip. If you don't prefer neutral pinks, I love the bronze, gold rush, and cream and sugar. When you apply these over the pink lip liner you get a very neutral and light frosting effect that is a much cooler look for warmer weather.

Easy Creamy Eyes

I've always used powdered shadows, except for once in Junior High school when powder blue cream shadow was in. This season Mary Kay has these lovely pots of creamy eye color and I didn't think I would like them but I'm IN LOVE! Apply them with a few strokes of your finger or the cream eye shadow brush (sold separately) and look like you went to cosmetology school. I love how they blend so easily and the colors are natural with a hint of pearlescent sheen that I find alluring.

But that's NOT the BEST part... They act like an eye primer and shadow in one so I don't get any creasing. Not even at the END of a long day. Really! If you really want to use your powder on top of these to create extra drama, I find it even helps that have more staying power. No tugging or pulling your skin to apply it either... it goes on like BUTTAH! (Can you tell I like them?) I think they are perfectly subtle for day use, at work, or at the beach, but you could go "whole hog" as they say, and glam it up for a special occasion or evenings.

And I always wear an EYE LINER! My poor lashes are not as long as they used to be so I can fool the world, without wearing falsies, by using eye liner. Instantly I look more rested. Once again, no sharpener is needed, just roll it up and use it. It goes on easily for me so I don't have to tug my delicate eye skin.

This season I've forgone my classic black and brown for Deanna's favorite eye liner color "Steely" It is quite complimentary to blue eyes. I also must say I am a bit intrigued by the "olive" color too. I think it would be a really fun color for Spring.

Basic Natural Beauty... Tinted Moisture SPF 20

Moisture, hint of color, and sunscreen in ONE PRODUCT! This is ALWAYS in my makeup drawer. When I don't feel like applying makeup, I can apply this tinted moisturizer and give my skin protection, nourishment and look more refreshed at the same time. I have applied a glob of moisture in a strip near my index finger just so you could see how creamy it is. The whole area above that stripe has the tinted moisture applied to it. It's not gonna cover a ginormous zit or make my age spots disappear but it does brighten and protect my skin so I look my best natural self.

Wanna kick it up a notch?

Tinted Moisture and Mineral Powder

Just a few months ago THIS was my very favorite! It's still great. I use this when I don't want a "glow" to my skin and when I want more coverage than just tinted moisture. You use just a tiny bit on your special brush and with a pouncing motion pat it onto your skin. It is meant to be used alone, but I use it over my tinted moisture. You can pat a little extra on age spots and areas that need more coverage. It is not a traditional finishing powder but a mineral foundation, so I find it covers provides nice light to medium matte coverage.

Latest & Greatest!

Foundation Primer

Luminous Foundation

This is my new favorite foundation! I don't feel like I'm wearing a mask but my skin looks MUCH BETTER!

Primer... Never used one before but I do NOW! It is feather light. Doesn't clog my pores. Doesn't leave my face feeling greasy but it makes all the difference in how my foundation g-l-i-d-e-s on. I just spread a tiny bit of it on with my fingers, give it a minute to set and then I'm ready for foundation.
Luminous Foundation... More coverage than tinted moisture alone. Perhaps a medium coverage, similar to mineral powder foundation, but still light feeling like tinted moisture. It has a dewy look to it when set but it's not greasy looking.
Apply it with your fingers or with a brush. This is one you will really want to try for yourself because it is hard to explain why it is so great to wear. I think it also comes in a matte finish if you don't want dewy. I thought dewy would look awful on me but it actually makes my skin look more youthful. In my opinion. lol

The Glow of Health

I wish I didn't need color on my skin, but I do. Without it, I constantly get asked if I'm not feeling well. Nothing will make you feel worse faster than having your loved ones inquiring about your apparent ill health when you THOUGHT you looked FABULOUS! lol I've applied all three colors on my hand without blending them in to show how light they go on. I like the way they perk up my look. I don't use all three at the same time, but it is what is in my makeup bag right now.

Sheer Bliss Cream Blush. (top left) I have the deeper color they make and wear it with reds but I must admit that this Sheer Bliss color has stolen my heart. It's the closest thing to the natural color of health that I've found. And I don't know what Mary Kay has done, but their cream products apply smooth and even, not blotchy or streaky. I feel that I look like I've had a spa day after I put this on. :)
Liquid Illuminator Shade 2 (top right) I rub in the tiniest dot of this above my eyebrow and below the corner of my eye atop the cheek bone. It just reflects the light a little bit to give a more youthful glowing/illuminated illusion. I use the more bronzy shade to hint at a kiss of sun.
Bronzing Stick (bottom right) I got this before I tried the Liquid Illuminator. It is like suntan on a stick. I don't know how they did it but it feels cool when you put it on. Very refreshing. I've used it in place of color on my skin and used it on my neck and decolate to look like I've had sun without the damaging effects of sun.

THAT CONCLUDES MY VIRTUAL MARY KAY PARTY!!!

I hope you enjoyed this little tour through the favorites in my makeup bag.

EPILOGUE...

Those of you that know me, know that I often go minimal to no makeup unless I'm going "out." If I could go completely without makeup and not startle others, I would. ;) And if you don't need to wear makeup, I'm both jealous of and thrilled for you! ;)

I think God made your face just right and you shouldn't feel compelled to change it just because Mary Kay makes great makeup. And I'd like to think that y'all love me just the same with or without my makeup, just like I love you just as you are.

In fact, Proverbs 31 talks about a woman who is praise worthy...

Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God. Prov 31:30 The Message

Chasing after external beauty is a race you will inevitably loose according to the standard of this world. But a woman of good character, who loves her friends and family and loves her God is TRULY BEAUTIFUL her entire life through. That is the woman I strive to be and I hope you value that woman too.

If you live your life right, you will be MORE than just a pretty face, my friend. You will be a blessing to all those who know you. And that is REAL BEAUTY!

Thanks for stopping by Stoneybrooke Cottage today. I'm praying for great things in your life.

Hugs

Linda/stoneybrooke

Fall Wonder

2010-11-03T16:24:00.002-05:00

I came home to this delightful scene...

The air is crisp and cool.

The sky is grey with the hopeful promise of the coming rain.

The grass is only slightly faded,

choosing to cheer up the earth for a few more glad days.

Yellowed leaves crunch delightfully underfoot.

The trees that stand bare,

finally relaxed after the hard work of seasons past.

Their newly lightened limbs stretch out

like an ornate and treasured pen and ink drawing.

Standing proud as a peacock beside these sleepy giants

are the kings and queens of the forest.

They wear their exquisite shouts of color with refinement and grace.

I'm Humbled...

Thankful...

And Filled With Wonder...

Wonder for the Creator of all Wonders.

God of all Creation.

My God.

"I give thanks to God with everything I've got... God's works are so great, worth a lifetime of study - endless enjoyment! Splendor and beauty mark his craft, His generosity never gives out. His miracles are his memorial - This God of Grace, this God of Love..." Psalm 111:1-10

Monday Morning Pick Me UP!

2010-09-20T12:13:00.001-05:00

Grab a cup of coffee
Sit in your favorite comfy chair
Shhhh... be very, very quiet...

I love you, Linda :)

Promises Promises

2010-08-31T12:59:00.003-05:00

Promises, Promises...

I PROMISED my lovely sister-in-law Ruthie from Sugar Pie Farmhouse that I would begin posting again, after getting a bit derailed early on in the year. I have been doing many things but telling YOU nothing about it. I suppose that DOES defeat the purpose of having a blog. lol

Ruthann, is a great cheerleader as you might imagine. Having prompted my journey into blog-land earlier in the year, she keeps nudging me to take "Baby Steps" and just begin posting.

For those of you who haven't seen "What About Bob?", here is the "Baby Steps" scene.

She has modeled great blogging and great life skills for me and still I have yet to consistently follow her example. But, TODAY is a new day!

TODAY is a new day for you too!

Choose just one thing that you have been PROMISING yourself to do for a long time. Forget about procrastinating, perfection, embarrassment, shame, guilt or fear, put one foot in front of the other, take a baby step and DO one thing. If I can do it... you can too.

So here it is... The PROMISED post!

Portuguese Knitting Pins
I have created, I'm guessing, just under 200 knitting pins which Andrea Wong has graciously sold. She takes them to shows and classes that she teaches. So Yippee for Sales! More to come soon.

Jewelry and Etsy Store

I've made a few pieces but they were for gifts. So far no lovelies for the store.

Ravelry

I'm helping to moderate a few groups there... Tabitha's Heart, Portuguese Knitting Group, Market Bags You must join Ravelry to check these out and joining is FREE! If you love the fiber arts, in particular knitting or crocheting, it is THE place to be for inspiration and sharing your love with other fiber enthusiasts.

Knitting

Sweet Lucy (Arielluria) has lured me into the idea of living a little greener by making reusable bags instead of contributing to the landfill. So, I have knit market bags in an attempt to be a little greener.

Little Evan was born in MAY and he is a delight. I haven't knit for any of the grandkids yet because I wasn't feeling confident of my skills. I decided that has got to change so I PROMISED myself I would knit him a blankie and a matching sweater, which I did... hoooray!!! Gabriela (Gabyknits) designed and sewed the most beautiful bags to match it too. The largest bag will eventually store the set as a keepsake. Until then Brianne gets to use it however she pleases. (Gaby also blessed us with gifts of yarn and toys and dog treats! Gaby is a generous friend.) With regard to the sweater? Well Evan has already outgrown the sweater before he could wear it. lol Goooooo Evan Gooooo!

I knit socks for me! Yes I AM a sock knitter now. PROMISED myself I would improve my sock knitting skills this year. Knit socks designed by the fabulous Tabitha and didn't cry even once! (I knew you'd be proud.) These socks were actually very fun to knit. Yes you heard me right. ;)

I even knit some for Ailish!

That's a few of the knitted projects I've finished.

Crochet
Yes I dusted of the crochet hooks after about 15 years and have tried a few projects. I'm really enjoying crochet.

This was a gift for OliviaAmber of Ravelry fame. It holds a cake of yarn so that it doesn't get all jumbly and tangled.

Ailish is rockin' the crochet sun hat I made and then embellished with a handmade silky flower from a kit by Lisa Cruse. She calls the flowers "Raggedy Ribbonry Roses" and she makes it easy to create one yourself.

I tried this slouchy hat which is popular right now. Not sure I can rock the slouchy hat look but it was fun to make. (This puffy stitch was used in a hat I wore in Junior High so it was a lovely memory to knit!)

I have lots of other crochet projects that I'll post about later, lest I bore you further.

Church Youth Group
Things are in reorganization mode at church and so for now, my job as Sunday Morning hostess to the youth of the church is finished. I must admit I'm sad about not seeing these guys. They are fabulous. I'm looking for how I will contribute to our church family now.

House
I PROMISED myself I'd tame the jungle that is the closets of my house. I've conquered a couple of them. Yaay for me!

Family
I welcomed so many loved ones in the past few months. Baby Evan was born to Brianne, Bryan, Owen and Ailish. Heather came for a visit by herself and Heather AND Spencer came again after Evan was born. I feel spoiled to have already had two visits so early in the year. I finally got to meet good friend Tabitha who I tease without ceasing on the Tabitha's Heart group. She and her family were sweet to stop by on their vacation and let me tag along for some great family time. What a treat! My sister, Holly of Life Laugh Latte came to visit with her family (except hubby couldn't make it. :/) Holly is good for everything that ails me. She is the caffeine in my coffee. Lastly, we are now sharing our home with our good friends for a short time while they build their home nearby. The arrangement will benefit us both and our boys have been good friends since we moved here so it should be a great and memorable experience for everyone.

Many of you, my friends and family, have also blessed me with your presence over the past months. We have shared stories and laughs, projects, ideas, pictures and prayer. You mean so much to me and I'm praying God's best for you.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The last PROMISE of this post is a thought that my daughter, Heather, shared with me yesterday...

Let me first say, we are not unlike many of you, who find our finances a source of need in our life. We have been doing our part for better or worse, whilst trusting God to provide for our needs. Though God is completely trustworthy, we still find trusting Him a challenge.

At those times, when we are at the end of everything we can do and the only resource we have left is God, trust can feel like walking blindfolded through a mine field. Though you know God is more than able and WILL get you to the other side, you also know what is at stake. Your rest, that is supposed to be peaceful "beside still waters" (Psalm 23), is work. It is looking at the hurricane of disaster heading for you and choosing instead to SEE the truth of God's PROMISES.

The burden of our finances falls on my sweet husband's shoulders. He is the hardest working man I know. There is not a lazy bone in his body and he gives everything he has to provide for us. It's really hard to exhaust yourself working and still find it not enough. He carries himself with hope but there are sometimes chinks in that armor.

Facing the hurricane, is challenge enough, but you throw in an accidental encounter with a wood splitter...

Hubby was preparing us for winter by splitting wood. Three of them were lifting what he estimates is a 500 pound section of tree into the splitter, and the tree got away from them and rolled his hand right into the cutting edge of the splitter. Once he was able to yank his hand out, he found the end of his right ring finger hanging on by a bit of skin. Though thankful for the fact that he was spared a worse injury, it was just something he didn't need on top of everything else. Over the last week, that bit of finger that the ER tacked back in place, has been slowly darkening until it is black and hard. We were pretty sure that wasn't a good sign.

Close your eyes if you don't want to see...

At our appointment with the "Hand Specialist" yesterday, we braced ourselves for what we thought should logically be bad news... the dead tissue needs to be removed and the finger needs to be shortened. Instead, what we heard was... the way the injury occurred might mean the damaged tissue could grow back and he could retain not only his finger but the feeling in it and the ability to grip tools and work.

On the way home we were thanking God for the good news and I wondered out loud if God allowed this to happen to be a daily visual reminder to us, that just the way he is taking care of your finger, he is also working out our financial issues?

I was on the phone with Heather at the time, and she said something that hit me right between the eyes...

Maybe it's a reminder that God's provision (his PROMISE keeping) doesn't come because of the work of our hands either.

God PROMISES to take care of us because that is WHO HE IS. He is Jehovah-Jireh, my PROVIDER. I don't earn his provision because I'm so good, or a hard worker, or nice. God provides for me because it's who HE is.

I guess that means so much to me because I always feel I'm falling short. I don't post to my blog enough. lol I don't clean enough. I don't do enough at church. I don't read my Bible enough. I'm not nice enough. I don't keep my PROMISES enough. I'm not a good enough friend, or sister, or mom, or daughter, or wife.

I never feel worthy of God's blessing (receiving the gift of his PROMISES) because of me and my failings.

But God, My Provider, is not depending on ME. He is more than able to bring about his good plans for my life and my family's life because of who HE is.

What a relief! What a burden lifted! What a comfort! To know that all I NEED to BE is HIS.

If you belong to God, his PROMISES are for YOU too.

And He wants EVERYONE to belong to Him. Just do it. Baby Steps! :)

Love ya, Linda xo

Skeletons and Roses? Really! It'll Make Sense...

2010-02-16T12:10:00.002-06:00

Everyone is a-buzz with the Winter Olympics.

Tabitha and I have been discussing it. In fact, she gave me the highlights via text last night because I couldn't watch. My favorites were "barber pole swiss wins the gold", a reference to his uniform I later found out.

And I laughed at her observation that the "flowers they gave the medalists looked like heads of broccoli."

They Won The Broccoli!!!

I've caught a few glimpses of the excitement. I saw some of the opening ceremonies. I loved the way they turned the floor into a giant undulating ocean, using light. And I saw some Luge practice where they were discussing whether the sport is dangerous... Most anyone knows the answer to that is - YES!

My favorite is, as always, the ice skaters. I marvel at their ability to stay upright and graceful on a slick surface when my damp bathroom floor is challenging for ME.

BUT THIS MORNING... Tabitha told me about the SKELETON event!

The Gift of Love...

2010-01-30T18:06:00.004-06:00

The Gift of Love...

It was last year around Valentines Day, on a shopping date with Ruthann, that we visited a favorite little shop in Ozark, as we so often do. It is called the Market Basket. The owner enjoys more primitive, and country antiques and collectibles. She has a knack for displaying the odd bits she finds in a very appealing way. You feel at home from the moment you walk in the front door.

On this particular day, a vintage Valentine caught my eye. I have a small, but meaningful to me, collection of vintage ephemera that includes, among other things, old postcards and now it includes this sweet little Valentine. They were collected simply because they make me smile. I keep them in this keepsake box that my other Mom, Sue, gave me many years ago.

It seems right that these keepsakes, that were important enough to someone to so carefully preserve them for years, are now being cared for by me, someone who appreciates them.

I love the colorful graphics, the charming scenes. But even more, I love the handwritten sentiments. They provide a little window for me to get a glimpse into life a time long ago. That's why this Valentine just had to come home with me.

I like to imagine what inspired the writing of this valentine.

I think... who was this woman "HW"? I'll try to imagine a name, let's call her... Harriet Witherspoon. What do we know about her? She has a sense of humor and so I'm pretty sure I'd like her.

And who is Harold and why was he needing "the girls" to throw him a party? Was he an eligible bachelor? A widower who needed cheering? A neighbor who needed a friend? No one will ever know now, but what is clearly evident is that "the girls" didn't want Harold to feel alone. They wanted him to feel loved.

Most of us don't handwrite notes so much any more. But today our loved ones and friends still need to know how much we love them, as much as folks did in simpler times. The need to love and be loved doesn't change. It's not a fad or a passing thing but a fundamental principle to live by.

In the Bible I read that God's best rule for us to live by, the key to a life lived well, is that we should:

"... love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence -- and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself." Luke 10:27 the Message

Loving God

It's time to take a personal inventory here. The magnifying glass needs to be pointed at my own heart. It seems pretty clear from the Word, that the evidence of our love for God is in everything we are and do.

What is my passion... What about this relationship with God has me so excited that I have to talk about it?
What do I pray about... Do my prayers venture beyond my own desires and into concerns that are after God's own heart?
What do I spend my muscle/energy on... Am I doing God's work on this earth?
What do I think about... Am I worrying my way through the day or trusting Him to care for me just as He has promised?

Loving Others

Here is another chance to check myself.

Do I love myself in the way God intended?
Do I love others with the same godly love?

So how am I doing?

I'm not where I want to be but I'm not where I used to be.

What can I do about it?

I can do better starting today...

I can cherish this act of loving as the sacred thing that it is.

I can choose to truly love God, myself, and others - EVERY DAY - Not just Valentines Day.

So here it goes!

I really do thank God for you and I LOVE you.

Thanks for stopping by for a chat.

Be blessed and be a blessing.

Love,

Linda

Queen for a Day!

2010-01-20T16:45:00.002-06:00

Queen for a Day is a tradition I grew up with. My Grandma Naomi lived to spoil us kids and we loved it. Being the Queen meant I got to watch cartoons in her bed. She'd make homemade doughnuts for breakfast, read stories from my Dad's old story books, make paper dolls from a Sears catalogue, and if I was very good I could string buttons into a necklace!

I loved that button box. It was actually just an old cigar box filled with buttons that she had collected. These weren't just any buttons. They were the most beautiful buttons I have ever seen.

At least, that's how I remember it.
It is such a fond memory that I have always had some sort of a button collection since I was newly married. It was housed for years in a lone mason jar that was tinted blue from years of exposure to the sun I suppose.

Well a while back, on another fun excursion with my sister-in-law Ruthann, we found a crocheted necklace that was embellished lavishly with lovely mother of pearl buttons. It was stunning but it was also way out of my price range.

I still go back and visit it every once in a while so it doesn't miss me too much. :)

From that day, I began searching out buttons to recreate that necklace. It has since developed into a button obsession and those buttons, treasures old and new, are now sorted and happily awaiting my creative inspiration in a nook in my bedroom.

Ok that sounded so nice when I typed it, but I must be honest... the nook is actually a long folding table smack in the middle of my bathroom. I'm trying to get organized and since everything was packed into my closet it seemed a logical place at the time.

I'm ready to begin creating masterpieces with my little treasures. I just had to share a few photos of them for you to admire. These are the ones I am working with now. They will become lovely Portuguese knitting pins for www.andreawongknits.com and limited edition wrap pins for lovely knitted things.

Please try to contain your squeals of joy. Oh ok! Go ahead and squeal... I am!

Perhaps you need a closer look? These are a lovely shade of cranberry red. Be still my heart. I won't force you to look at each button, though I am enormously tempted. Just know I am enjoying my work.

Wouldn't my Grandma Naomi be proud to know she was such an inspiration?

Be blessed, my friends, as you do you the work God has given you to do. Enjoy the gift of this day he has given you... every sight, every sound, every taste, every smell, every touch. Make yourself Queen for a Day and re-discover a long forgotten joy from your childhood. You have my permission. :)

Until next time,

Linda

There's a time to dream... and a time to just START!

2010-01-08T19:56:00.004-06:00

Little Girl Dreams
Since I was a little girl I have always loved dreaming and creating.

I started writing and illustrating a book at the age of 11 or 12. I called it "The Lillifoot Club." I smile when I think of the name of its pivotal character "Heckett." I remember how soft and romantic that name sounded to me at the time... "H-e-c-k-e-t-t" It doesn't seem to have the same sweet ring to it now that it did to me then. :) And I never finished that novel but I do remember the joy creating it gave me. Whistfully, I imagined someday my writing would be discovered and my novel would be there right next to "Little House on the Prairie" books in my hometown library.

Young Woman Dreams

Over the years I have achieved some of my fondest dreams. I married my high school sweetheart at just 19 and I have loved him for over 32 years now. I have 4 kids who love God and are really great people. I not only love them but I like them. I always wanted to be a Mom. My two daughters have married good and godly men and I now have 3 sweet grandchildren to spoil.

I've also had the chance to fulfill my dream of writing a book when in the 1990's my sister-in-law, Ruthann, and I were published by Harvest House Publishers. Ruthann, who now writes the inspiring Sugar Pie Farmhouse, had a great family oriented product that God used to open the door for a book deal. The books were beautiful and I'm proud to have had the honor of working with her to fulfill that dream.

My little girl all grown up...
Previous picture is our first born, Brianne, on the day she was dedicated to God in church.
Above, Brianne is all grown up holding her little girl Ailish.

Vintage Dreams
In the course of living I have grown in many ways, some of which I am proud of and others not-so-much.

I've grown to be more FORGIVING of others. I've also grown a fluffier shape. lol.
I think I'm a more THANKFUL person but I've always got too many things on my wish list.

One thing that hasn't changed fast enough for my own good, is a fair assessment of myself. Unfortunate experiences early in life created in my mind a negative image of self that is still hard to shake.

I love cheer leading others and find myself an eager and ready fan. But when it comes to me, I am harsh, cruel, and even a bully sometimes. It is an inner voice that conflicts daily with what I read in God's Word.

He says I am His child. His precious one. His little lamb.

And I'm created in His image.

It was on a Sunday morning this past December, that I was made aware again of how unfair my thinking was. I was getting ready in front of the mirror criticizing everything I saw... name calling at the image in the mirror... it was a comfortable routine and seemed quite justified and rational at the time.

I'm overweight, I have wrinkles and cellulite, my energy level is waaaay too low, I'm not a great cook or housekeeper. I'm not the best knitter, or crafter. My wardrobe is unimaginative and if you could see inside me you would cringe to know how flawed my spiritual life and character is. I'm not the daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend or child of God that I should to be.

I asked a sincere question of God that day that I have asked Him before...
"God what were you thinking when you made me?"

This time, I got an answer... In my heart I heard him say... "You say you love me and that you are a thankful person but you criticize me for my judgement in making you."

The truth of it stung my heart. I was being unkind to myself but I was being most unfair and critical of GOD. I was focusing on every negative thing I could think of about myself instead of getting excited about the great things God had planned for me before I was even born. I was treating myself in a way that I would never let my kids treat each other. And I was insulting God by telling Him that He didn't know what He was doing when He made me. Somehow, I knew better than He did who needs to be on this earth. The minute I heard it I knew how wrong I was.

I'm not a mistake I'm a child of the King!

I've been thinking. I know something has to change. My thinking has often kept me paralyzed from stepping out and following the dreams God's put in my heart. I've lived in fear... afraid of not measuring up, afraid of failing, afraid of rejection, afraid of being found out.

Fear prevents God from blessing me with the truth of knowing why He made me. Why He wanted me on this earth.

So, I'm stepping out of my comfort zone. I'm going to stop making excuses and just START! I'm going to abandon caution and embrace the dreams that God has put in my heart. I'm going to live a more thankful life starting with not judging my success by what other people say or think but on how obedient I'm being to what He lays on my heart. Any success is totally His.

Starting this blog for Stoneybrooke Cottage is one of my first steps in living a life that is more thankful to God. It is the dream that has been in my heart for the past year.

I have designed a line of magnetic vintage style Portuguese knitting pins that as of TODAY are for sale at www.andreawongknits.com. I also have a line of jewelry and fun vintage style treasures for knitters that will be debuting in my www.stoneybrookecottage.etsy.com Etsy store in the next month or so.

I'm going to use the blog to share my journey of starting up my dream business. It won't be all serious and long every time. In fact, I hope you'll find lots of occassions to smile. Either way it will be from my heart. I don't know how God is going to use this for His glory but I trust that He will.

I've asked knitting mentors Tabitha and Andrea Wong, sister-in-law Ruthann and other member of my family for advice. They have been kind enough to share their wisdom with me. It's such a blessing to have friends to walk with me as I take this new path in my life. And I'd love it if you would join me too.

Perhaps you've been thinking that you need a little encouragement to follow the dream God has put in your heart. Maybe you needed to hear that you are no mistake, but God WANTS you here for His purpose. Let's encourage and support each other. I'm a little bit "skeered" and maybe you are too but I'm also excited to see what God has in store for us.

Step Number 1... Send magnetic Portuguese knitting pins to Andrea Wong. (Done)

Step Number 2... Post a blog. (Finally Done! Look what progress I've made already!)