Wednesday, August 21, 2013

My Great Grandma Rusch and her Legacy.

My Great Grandma Rusch passed away a few days ago at the ripe old age of 98 1/2.  Her funeral was yesterday morning.  I can imagine that it would make her smile to see all of her kids, grandkids, great grandkids (35 of them), and even several great great grandchildren together in one place for her.

I just wanted to share one quick story about Grandma Rusch that will hopefully make you laugh.  It is not only funny, but demonstrates the thankfulness and positive attitude that we should all try to have about everyday we spend here on Earth.

Several years ago we were celebrating Easter up at my Grandma Jan's farm.  Great Grandma Rusch had laid down on the couch to take a nap.  She slept for a long time, and every now and then I'd peek in to check on her.  After all, she was over 90 and you just never know (if you know what I mean).   Finally, she woke up.  She got off the couch, shuffled over to where everyone was sitting and talking, and in her scratchy old lady voice, she exclaimed, almost in surprise, "I'm still around!"  Everyone rolled with laughter.  I suppose at over 90, every time you wake up, you almost surprise yourself! 

I'm so thankful that we were lucky enough to get a 5 generation picture with each of my children.  This one is 5 generations of all women!

Saturday, August 3, 2013

We Have a New Niece!

Do you all remember how I mentioned that I made a cowboy boot and hat set for a soon-to-be-here little Texan?  Well... she's here!

Our newest niece, Sloane, made her arrival on August 1st.  We are all excited to see more pictures and get to see her.  Actually, when I told Brennan, he was ready to jump in the car right away and head for Texas!  "I want to see my baby cousin NOW!"

Congratulations, Mike and Marija, on your little cowgirl.


Thursday, August 1, 2013

The Lovely Crow- Boot Scoot'n Cowboy Boots and Hat Set Crochet Pattern Review and Giveaway!

Thanks for stopping by!

One of the many things I did during my recent blogging hiatus was work on crocheting whenever I had a spare moment!

We are expecting a new Texan niece soon and so I thought that The Lovely Crow's Boot Scoot'n Boots and Cowboy Hat Set would be the perfect crochet pattern to review!


Elizabeth is the creator of The Lovely Crow and boy oh boy has she created some BEAUTIFUL patterns!  Any of the projects you could create with her crochet patterns would definitely provide that 'AWWWW!' factor for baby photos or just everyday wearing!  They would also make fantastic baby shower or new baby gifts!

Here are a few of my favorites!  How can  you resist adorable patterns like this??

 
 

Besides just having cute stuff, The Lovely Crow also has a fantastic track record to go with it.  The Lovely Crow Etsy shop has been open since March 2011, is coming up on 10,000 sales and has 100% positive feedback.  That's awesome.  Be sure to check out her shops on Ravelry and Etsy as well as 'like' her Facebook page for more cool patterns and discounts!

So, here's what I was able to make with the adorable pattern I was sent to try out!


 

I am really happy with how the set turned out!  The pattern was pretty easy to follow, complete with pictures and very good instructions.  I think that anyone with any past crocheting experience would probably be able to get through the instructions just fine.  One other really nice thing about buying patterns from The Lovely Crow is that you can always get help if you need it.  If you have questions you can check out The Lovely Crow's Forum or even watch helpful videos explaining trickier steps.

I sent my completed set down to Dallas where one expectant mom was super excited to receive them!  They should make for some awesome Newborn photos!

Of course, my little Cowgirl needed to give the hat a try before I put it in the mailbox. :)


Are you falling in love (or already fallen!) with The Lovely Crow's patterns?  Good news!  You have a chance to win FOUR patterns of your choice!  It's easy.  Just fill out the form below and make sure to come back daily for extra entries.  Good luck!  P.S.  I'm sure Elizabeth would love it if you dropped by her Facebook page and left a quick note to say thanks!
  a Rafflecopter giveaway