Easy Knitted Hooded Sweater

Size for 3 Year Old - $45.00 (shipping extra)

Knitting has been a constant element in my life since I have been about 10 years old. While it has at times taken a back seat to other interests, I can hardly ever recall not having some kind of project on my needles.

A couple of Christmases ago, my family gave me a set of Knit Picks circular needles. My life as a knitter has never been quite the same. I became more eager to try some difficult patterns. Last year, I even started delving deeper into the possibilities of knitting socks!

It seems once I find a pattern I like, I become somewhat obsessed and make multiple versions of the same pattern. Here are a few more of the sweaters I have made during the Spring, and most recently this black one. The pattern was simple, but the results have inspired me. The red and and blue patterned sweaters are for sale. The sweet black one with the pinwheel buttons is already taken.

Size for 3 Year old - $45.00 (shipping extra)

~ Sold ~

I hope that I can inspire you with these easy knitted sweaters. The free pattern is available through Lion Brand Yarn. Start exploring this relaxing hobby!

Take care, Nancy

Wedding Guest Register

He took the bride

about the neck,

And kissed her lips

With such a clamorous smack,

That at parting,

all the church did echo.

~William Shakespeare, 1594

In about a month my niece, Laura, will be getting married to James. This is a small Guest Signature Book that I created for the occasion. What an adventure is about to begin!

CREDITS: BACKGROUND PAPER COLORBOX "TRACEY PORTER" COLLECTION, COUPLE IMAGE DOWNLOADED FROM INTERNET.

Paris Art Tag

Two years ago this month, I stepped into the world of blogging. It started out as simply a means to stay more connected to two of my friends, Deb and Terri. Writing this blog has also helped me learn more about myself. It really can be a comfort on difficult days, when finding words and focus seem more challenging.

My blog has also provided a space for me to explore my desire to take better photos. I get so inspired by other blogs that seem to capture the simple moments of beauty, witnessing the quiet goings on in the world, and how I feel from these special times. When my creative spark may feel dim, I come to write on my blog. I choose to write about things that make me happy.

Thank you, everyone, who have enriched my life with your support, encouragement, shared stories, inspiring art, and treasured friendship. Blogging has definitely reminded me of how important each of us are, and how the simple sharing of our journeys can lift another along the way.

After a very long absence from one of my former swaps, I present my "Paris Art Tag." In exchange, I will be receiving 12 tags. Hopefully, finding new creative outlets, will expand my world just a little bit more!

CREDITS: BACKGROUND FROM PAPER WHIMSY, AND "PARIS BOOKCOVERS & BOOKMARK" COLLAGE SHEET FROM MOONLIGHT JOURNEY.

Butterfly Tree

Deep in the heart of the countryside,

Two moss maidens look on in awe,

As a miracle of creation takes place.

The spirit of the tree watches,

As her leafy offspring take flight.

Each magical leaf transforms,

Into a beautiful butterfly.

As it is shaken gently from the boughs,

Woodland fairies seize the moment,

To soar gracefully over the meadow,

Nestled safely in the delicate wings.

~Ramath Rajaram

Edited by Nancy Van Hoose

This butterfly tree has been a work in progress for my niece's wedding. It will be a decoration beside the cards for seating at her reception. I even have it done way ahead of time! And, of course, these wonderful little butterfly images are available through Moonlight Journey.

Let There Be Wings

The moment you doubt whether you can fly,

You cease for ever to be able to do it.

The reason birds can fly and we can't is simply

That they have perfect faith,

For to have faith,

Is to have wings.

J. M. Barrie

~ Peter Pan ~

I started a collaborative art journal entitled "Let There Be Wings." At the end of the year, I hopefully will get my book back with exciting entries to share. I love all things winged, so what could be more fun than this! Naturally, I turn to the images from Moonlight Journey. Their winged butterflies and gorgeous women never disappoint me.

Pocket with tag on inside cover.

"Winged Queen" with doorway skirt and flowered wheels on inside cover.

Reverse side of tag on inside cover.

Beautiful woman tag in large pocket on back cover.

Inside back cover pocket.

Thank you for dropping by today!

Masterful Men Tags

"If I never met him

I would have

dreamed him into being."

~Anzia Yezierska, 1950

"Masterful Men" images from Moonlight Journey.