tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46311194988191931172024-02-07T07:57:33.196-06:00wagon full of starsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger138125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-49649914555752472342013-02-27T11:21:00.000-06:002013-02-27T11:21:57.354-06:00He's Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwGeAAhX1Gz-FaNnF0tQyzhJEEuBn58kbxyA3ddcMuZjpp3Q7CdQGlw9xn9133gn7q8f6TSlCmBpWPksLyR8s9NmKdQ0gn-rxFSCx1C5-roC9l1dwg-1sraopI6Wfhcy04m3pOEOjlw61s/s1600/nico+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwGeAAhX1Gz-FaNnF0tQyzhJEEuBn58kbxyA3ddcMuZjpp3Q7CdQGlw9xn9133gn7q8f6TSlCmBpWPksLyR8s9NmKdQ0gn-rxFSCx1C5-roC9l1dwg-1sraopI6Wfhcy04m3pOEOjlw61s/s320/nico+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So happy to be able to post the hat in action! After a quick and relatively painless labor and delivery (wow, aren't epidurals the best invention ever?) baby Nico joined our family. I love him to pieces, right down to his baby Alfred Hitchcock profile. He has easily blended into our family and I find myself wondering how we were ever without him.<br />
<br />
Ben is a fabulous big brother, singing to Nico when he cries and and rubbing his tiny arm and saying "It's ok, I won't let anyone hurt you.". He's not so happy about having to share my attention, but we're working through it.<br />
<br />
I'm feeling good, happy to be almost recovered and ready to "get back to normal", whatever that means. I hope it means some sock knitting!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-74748214331343993282013-01-06T15:41:00.000-06:002013-01-06T15:42:32.481-06:00It's (Going to Be) a Boy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GcO8bUwguv3YMPtYxL7hiRdeFtltOFZaWZ2KFG9I5qJX9RqDrYp8m35HmrZ02MqBOG3mVDXQgihSC16ttY2BeegM9T7xDGtoviJIlasILK-IWbMXNltx8mNo6Zg0zsJnOG5Pf-mtD8mZ/s320/LB+Heirloom+hat.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been a long time since I have posted...9 months in fact! After struggling with fertility issues for a year, we were overjoyed to find out we were going to have another baby. I like to think about that day when first the home test and then the blood tests came back positive. It's been a long road since then.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My first pregnancy was a relative breeze. This one has been a challenge. I won't go into all the gory details, but the first trimester was by far the easiest. Yes, three-ish months of constant nausea and exhaustion would be preferred to the past 6 months of pre-term labor scares, bed rest and chronic pain. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm in the home stretch now, four weeks from my EDD and out of the early preemie danger zone. Now the big joke going around my friends and family is that I will end up going past due and need an induction.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurJA81GZXV5ufhbg4zTsvE3FS5MmTPHoflqMXEZfCLD2yx0atQDN2qXIrXWmtXpmOYWsc5gTupeM-4bm5ZMgoMloY5B3HCmWdIuQC6kMP878iCQ8qKxqxAfHqvbVnUQ2dXz84GfII8pxg/s1600/9+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NnGcrprc0wzMeENuLXFgv2NC-yNmM3gDCc6TbpiY3PtLJSlZPe_M4ktJ90U60mR21hSDEjq33zVOFDFs48vYw0mYSJ51b53rqwk7Ii5MATU_1Qpc2_GUUaXNWovYfkkZGqg_t0IeSVcV/s1600/LB+Heirloom+hat+and+mommy+scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NnGcrprc0wzMeENuLXFgv2NC-yNmM3gDCc6TbpiY3PtLJSlZPe_M4ktJ90U60mR21hSDEjq33zVOFDFs48vYw0mYSJ51b53rqwk7Ii5MATU_1Qpc2_GUUaXNWovYfkkZGqg_t0IeSVcV/s320/LB+Heirloom+hat+and+mommy+scarf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Despite everything, I have managed to knit a hat for Little Bug (big brother came up with that one) to wear home from the hospital and with the left over yarn I crocheted a matching cowl for myself.<br />
They are both made from <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-AlpacaLace.asp" target="_blank">Alpaca Lace by Cascade</a>. I held it double for the hat and quadrupled for the cowl.<br />
<br />
The hat pattern is from the Purl Bee - <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/heirloom-hats-for-newborns/" target="_blank">Heirloom Hats for Newborns</a>. I can't say I recommend it. It's really fiddly and no matter what I did, I ended up with some laddering. Overall it's cute and I am probably the only person who will notice or care about the flaws.<br />
<br />
The cowl is just double crochet. I made a long chain, twisted it when I joined it into a circle, and then double crocheted around until I ran out of yarn. I love this yarn, it's super soft and the colors are beautiful. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurJA81GZXV5ufhbg4zTsvE3FS5MmTPHoflqMXEZfCLD2yx0atQDN2qXIrXWmtXpmOYWsc5gTupeM-4bm5ZMgoMloY5B3HCmWdIuQC6kMP878iCQ8qKxqxAfHqvbVnUQ2dXz84GfII8pxg/s1600/9+months.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurJA81GZXV5ufhbg4zTsvE3FS5MmTPHoflqMXEZfCLD2yx0atQDN2qXIrXWmtXpmOYWsc5gTupeM-4bm5ZMgoMloY5B3HCmWdIuQC6kMP878iCQ8qKxqxAfHqvbVnUQ2dXz84GfII8pxg/s320/9+months.jpg" width="195" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here is a gratuitous belly shot! 36 weeks down! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-25307816578978281012012-05-23T10:13:00.008-05:002012-05-28T13:22:58.316-05:00Scrappy Crochet Bear Pattern<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxKznrF3inir4lkDFR9KwygXBjtdHxtEsjrEpoqp7zXjtWAz-ALf7zNOOJ2LITuBWnI-Z7oQJ7VsvXjwFrxIq8zwm9mlQpXc5zETke5uajU-pfx6q4HuLYfwE4PX3PlF-KSdKnA-CW-y8/s1600/P1050262WM.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxKznrF3inir4lkDFR9KwygXBjtdHxtEsjrEpoqp7zXjtWAz-ALf7zNOOJ2LITuBWnI-Z7oQJ7VsvXjwFrxIq8zwm9mlQpXc5zETke5uajU-pfx6q4HuLYfwE4PX3PlF-KSdKnA-CW-y8/s320/P1050262WM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747648002394327826" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Scrappy Crochet Bear</span></span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Supplies</span><br />Approximately 9 grams of worsted weight scrap yarn<br />size G/ 4.25 mm crochet hook<br />notions to make the face<br />stuffing<br />yarn needle<br /><br />Start with the body, since it is the largest piece.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Body</span><br />Ch 60 in body color, work flat in sc until the piece measures about 3.5 inches. This will be the face. Switch to the scraps and continue to sc until the total piece measures 9 inches, changing colors and striping as you wish. Finished piece will measure approx. 14" x 9".<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JJHZcM5Zc2kPe282ZiBcrFM3i5K0_Nki5aTqsBP0TFwls0IXaY3HB3sDw9owpCEVTS6WxqE6stIKWM3ZDOMFm6VYph1Rt_xQ19cAxFNNGi1t4GDr35l62OqFF4ylUDYhfvRkR8-PmCNp/s1600/P1050247WMcrop.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5JJHZcM5Zc2kPe282ZiBcrFM3i5K0_Nki5aTqsBP0TFwls0IXaY3HB3sDw9owpCEVTS6WxqE6stIKWM3ZDOMFm6VYph1Rt_xQ19cAxFNNGi1t4GDr35l62OqFF4ylUDYhfvRkR8-PmCNp/s320/P1050247WMcrop.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747646171094858418" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Arms<br /></span>Ch 20 using the same color as the face. Join into a ring with a slip st and work in sc for half an inch. Switch to using scraps, changing colors and striping s you wish, until the arm measures 3 inches. Make 2<span style="font-weight: bold;">.<br />Legs<br /></span>Ch 25 (at this point, you may be out of face color. I used the same color to start each leg to give the impression of shoes)<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Join into a ring with a slip st and work in sc for 1 inch. Switch to your scraps, striping as you wish, until the leg measures 4.5 inches.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ears</span><br />Using whatever colors you have left, Ch 2.<br />Round 1 - 6 dc into 2nd chain from hook. Join with a slip st into 1st dc.<br />Round 2 - switch colors, 1 ch, 2 dc into same stitch as chain, {2 dc into next dc} 5 times. Sl st into 1st dc.<br />Round 3 - switch colors, 1 ch, 2 dc into same stitch as chain, {2 dc into next dc} 10 times. Fasten off and weave in ends.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Finishing and Assembly</span><br />For the arms and legs, turn inside out and center the color jogs (think of this as a back seam) Tie off or weave in the ends, press flat and then stitch the end that is the hand or foot closed. Leave the other end open. Lightly stuff the arms and legs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Add the Face</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqQjVakFSM9VWB_qCYHGbXffupfGBxSftpWgIMjbJvYunzrgVsVWRFxkx0Wt7Bfpq5Azzh_VowQsO-t5SwGKrNyQN_qiIMcyrJhHDI42bl6C1k-UKBlziWp0VLVlVuy2fdXB8WLGv79xd/s1600/P1050248WM.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqQjVakFSM9VWB_qCYHGbXffupfGBxSftpWgIMjbJvYunzrgVsVWRFxkx0Wt7Bfpq5Azzh_VowQsO-t5SwGKrNyQN_qiIMcyrJhHDI42bl6C1k-UKBlziWp0VLVlVuy2fdXB8WLGv79xd/s320/P1050248WM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747646178685594386" border="0" /></a><br />For the body, find the center of the rectangle and add the face. You can use safety eyes, felt, embroidery floss, whatever you have handy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Add the Arms</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BYt4QEFHsyV_tpFgGd6bO8ba8IDAJYycxfjgXIjTD1OW_Eqmyy7QG34mvKfQRsnGkAn_Qg8GrD1FmJ__TlWJC6ESKsY-YlM_LiVz2vjr7-tB_Raqk-ydq3mDR-Y8txb6m8LE9TdwiDXw/s1600/P1050250WM.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2BYt4QEFHsyV_tpFgGd6bO8ba8IDAJYycxfjgXIjTD1OW_Eqmyy7QG34mvKfQRsnGkAn_Qg8GrD1FmJ__TlWJC6ESKsY-YlM_LiVz2vjr7-tB_Raqk-ydq3mDR-Y8txb6m8LE9TdwiDXw/s320/P1050250WM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747646193088347234" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakEPuoEfjzySE1HS5R_TxJywzpeLL2aV2nTTfIXEHDFu15Fz0wostH4gZvBlkWHzNX7d5x12So9APfID95lMuu04fLudNAwiIsCmIIEt_7DEnGhkSYqsHBkgzj6Zjvd_jo7q0f4SuepJJ/s1600/P1050249WM.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakEPuoEfjzySE1HS5R_TxJywzpeLL2aV2nTTfIXEHDFu15Fz0wostH4gZvBlkWHzNX7d5x12So9APfID95lMuu04fLudNAwiIsCmIIEt_7DEnGhkSYqsHBkgzj6Zjvd_jo7q0f4SuepJJ/s320/P1050249WM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747646183496321314" border="0" /></a><br />Then fold the edges to the center and mark where the sides are. Lay it out flat again and stitch the arms on (arms should be lightly stuffed).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Add the Legs</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFLmXHQgSHhl51jJrEENVsU4_nnqWPgFX4eGDZM-KfJUXVH0ta2GPZOWQyPvpfDLWY7GUTO4qLT3xZiIdD6Ksb1-YxvHL_l7tqMzSpJO_iQ0jdOsdedULFjkAu1MSxOLQBApQXgOjQiQp/s1600/P1050254WM.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFLmXHQgSHhl51jJrEENVsU4_nnqWPgFX4eGDZM-KfJUXVH0ta2GPZOWQyPvpfDLWY7GUTO4qLT3xZiIdD6Ksb1-YxvHL_l7tqMzSpJO_iQ0jdOsdedULFjkAu1MSxOLQBApQXgOjQiQp/s320/P1050254WM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747646201390263298" border="0" /></a><br />Fold right sides together and sew the back seam closed. Center the back seam and then tuck the legs inside the body (legs should already be stuffed), aligning the open edge of the leg with the bottom edge of the body. Pin in place and sew closed.<br />Turn right side out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Add Ears and Close</span><br />Stuff the body to the desired firmness. Sandwich the first ear between the front and back sides and stitch closed, being careful to pass through all three layers of fabric. Stitch the top middle of the head closed and then add the second ear as the first. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbG0dYjXv3GfP_V1uLBi0OQuXE_W4x2pXQEOoRuT8wyO7J20Rd0-Q53IPKuQwbzMm1WgfLKYifgR_J4O-QiooOV94z3nTtuLg1Mlt-Nxr03hYIEhUSxFY_oghMrELq33-Ty84IDmxk9ysu/s1600/P1050256WM.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbG0dYjXv3GfP_V1uLBi0OQuXE_W4x2pXQEOoRuT8wyO7J20Rd0-Q53IPKuQwbzMm1WgfLKYifgR_J4O-QiooOV94z3nTtuLg1Mlt-Nxr03hYIEhUSxFY_oghMrELq33-Ty84IDmxk9ysu/s320/P1050256WM.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5747648008679907058" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy your new toy!<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-71995759996517127052012-05-18T13:36:00.003-05:002012-05-18T13:39:42.207-05:00Something Pretty<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmjvSij1V-0NfiOwm0C_45BCuk98DTggIWBHs4q6FFMGZtE5sCv9TRU1X5iG4_9navVPX-D_MaVDijFj5wBCEt50CBxzmFYz5wkMHq5fXRu0Dqkc0A2_66fDk2GnJZVk5F0eAH39BtgUp/s1600/P1050243.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmjvSij1V-0NfiOwm0C_45BCuk98DTggIWBHs4q6FFMGZtE5sCv9TRU1X5iG4_9navVPX-D_MaVDijFj5wBCEt50CBxzmFYz5wkMHq5fXRu0Dqkc0A2_66fDk2GnJZVk5F0eAH39BtgUp/s400/P1050243.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5743944320450207666" border="0" /></a>I'm working away at my <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2011/06/loulouthi-tiles-versions-design.html">Loulouthi Tiles</a> quilt. It is the largest thing I have ever made. I'm pretty excited about that. Hopefully it will be pieced by next week. It is a happy way to spend a Friday nap time. Have a great weekend!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-73740497485305573402012-05-15T06:05:00.001-05:002012-05-15T06:05:00.040-05:00At Last - the Clapotis<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5fydnFnwpc_Xt6TVrq5nHL03-Jzrk7EGDWDF0G3gONQBqMRbK2UAAAJ2XjgF7I9eh-abrMWio-WQaL049KWN3Ya9160wikycb2loEGW_NYQSDs0uMoHLll0rpth9ra726ZHvMhgBae6x/s1600/Clapotis+1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5fydnFnwpc_Xt6TVrq5nHL03-Jzrk7EGDWDF0G3gONQBqMRbK2UAAAJ2XjgF7I9eh-abrMWio-WQaL049KWN3Ya9160wikycb2loEGW_NYQSDs0uMoHLll0rpth9ra726ZHvMhgBae6x/s400/Clapotis+1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741342524949947954" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFAQyxgaDTGigwZaqRTXU6eNYXRSoIThpYr9hEfyMqwEG4mpyIhLcBVFRhyphenhyphenEjOsOo3dx7Zmzey5fKWMaQuwfZ3YMLUXPFS57Ca76OHwm6e6EdzAOS4BPvj156R6cFJQio_KBbxtLfEFdv/s1600/Clapotis+3.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 223px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFAQyxgaDTGigwZaqRTXU6eNYXRSoIThpYr9hEfyMqwEG4mpyIhLcBVFRhyphenhyphenEjOsOo3dx7Zmzey5fKWMaQuwfZ3YMLUXPFS57Ca76OHwm6e6EdzAOS4BPvj156R6cFJQio_KBbxtLfEFdv/s400/Clapotis+3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741342543865178402" border="0" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cOR_co31ft-9kQNs3zn_DUV8KcGZaEtbDnqmi1QGVJ08t0ykHTa7EL5-_UzF1UI2ykHtjcdgDZs36M4825_C_WvuiRoNWE0jsTj1X1pAXHej1BDNNAyhB6iiy2sbvkMH7C3Nl3ZfSzHT/s1600/Clapotis+2.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cOR_co31ft-9kQNs3zn_DUV8KcGZaEtbDnqmi1QGVJ08t0ykHTa7EL5-_UzF1UI2ykHtjcdgDZs36M4825_C_WvuiRoNWE0jsTj1X1pAXHej1BDNNAyhB6iiy2sbvkMH7C3Nl3ZfSzHT/s400/Clapotis+2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741342532233390354" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Pattern: <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall04/PATTclapotis.html">Clapotis</a><br />Yarn: <a href="http://www.berroco.com/shade_cards/weekend_sh.html">Berroco Weekend</a> in icy blue<br />Needles: size 8<br /><br />I have wanted to make this pattern for six years. How insane is that? I actually attempted it once, with some ridiculously awful novelty yarn. It was glittery and ribbony and just really not good. I was a new knitter though. We all go through that phase. Anyway, it was a <a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/3400/1753/1600/OTS%204.27.06.jpg">disaster</a>.<br /><br />This Clapotis has been a long time coming. I made it for my mom, originally for her birthday, but it ended up being Mother's Day before I finished it up. This pattern is teeedious. There are a million repeats of what is pretty much just stockinette. I had to put it down several times.<br /><br />But then came the wonderful day it was done. I threw it over my shoulders and suddenly did not want to part with it. It's so perfectly sized and delightfully drape-y. It's like having a warm towel to put around your shoulders after getting out of a cold pool. I want my own. I now understand why people slog though several of these. It might take me another six years to get around to it, but there most likely will be another one of these in my future.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-3302466634613898422012-05-13T07:01:00.002-05:002012-05-13T08:43:37.618-05:00Happy Mother's Day!<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQ_wIVHmvmJqGpwCY59HJj-kbCZJu7R0Zet4BeRGnIjW32Oatl3wpljW7cbC3fiaLKd5nBsc37GUMEMak8ZsT_Uu__i1jpMHwpMNTx0MMrGc2q_jf5UMII8piFUe8g3wWG23Jb0QF5uEg/s1600/P1040966.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQ_wIVHmvmJqGpwCY59HJj-kbCZJu7R0Zet4BeRGnIjW32Oatl3wpljW7cbC3fiaLKd5nBsc37GUMEMak8ZsT_Uu__i1jpMHwpMNTx0MMrGc2q_jf5UMII8piFUe8g3wWG23Jb0QF5uEg/s400/P1040966.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741337810912023138" border="0" /></a>To all the mothers, grandmothers, and the women hoping to become mothers, have a wonderful day. To all the women in my life who have ever mothered me in some way, thank you! And an even bigger thank you to my own mom, who has always been there for me and who I love dearly!<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-57081391504520274062012-05-11T12:28:00.003-05:002012-05-11T13:00:39.786-05:00Letter Discovery Activity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScPT0CjHOovW4thlctGIHF_CBYAcAQLzNRFVUCiJ2eUfaYQjYWLoXeWWsbw1zy6mrJVES2PDGYHth5qZGlOm3n5s0G-tKE97TpPNQvnokxVHPn49GhuUlU5e1Sl-BfifN8Iep-sZslpm3/s1600/P1050227.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScPT0CjHOovW4thlctGIHF_CBYAcAQLzNRFVUCiJ2eUfaYQjYWLoXeWWsbw1zy6mrJVES2PDGYHth5qZGlOm3n5s0G-tKE97TpPNQvnokxVHPn49GhuUlU5e1Sl-BfifN8Iep-sZslpm3/s400/P1050227.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741332347332598402" border="0" /></a>We've had several glorious rainy days. Multiple inches in single hours. Thunder, cloud-to-ground lightening, the works. It makes my little drought shriveled heart happy. But OMG, does it get stir-crazy in here with a toddler.<br /><br />So we've been painting. To add an element of surprise and education to the mix, I devised this little activity. Super easy, fun, and educational.<br /><br />The only supplies you need are watercolors, paintbrushes, paper, and a white crayon. Write out the alphabet in white crayon on white paper. I found that it helps to press firmly and go over the lines a couple of times.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-u-fGjev-5QR0tRdFBlKiGbTdgRw5A9FagmL1b32gVbauU2pE6t5iRkJkJRstrTLsARNmnHn3A-6byhB3cJlHJb8p7s0NIXWcE50qgIhIXP2-6O3hdwwujSHqj24rGcZ_Gcn8uqlD7P1/s1600/P1050166.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-u-fGjev-5QR0tRdFBlKiGbTdgRw5A9FagmL1b32gVbauU2pE6t5iRkJkJRstrTLsARNmnHn3A-6byhB3cJlHJb8p7s0NIXWcE50qgIhIXP2-6O3hdwwujSHqj24rGcZ_Gcn8uqlD7P1/s400/P1050166.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741332333910077570" border="0" /></a>Then let the little one paint away! Ben was so excited to watch the letters emerge from the paint. He'd shout them out and dance around. (Dancing with a wet paintbrush is a hazard, fair warning.)<br />This is also an easy way to observe what your kiddo knows without pressuring them. Just through observation of his unsolicited responses, I could see what he understood and where we might need to spend some time practicing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQy_yLEt5U36-i-bWGrinJDa6pHp2pNLcynIRxI6-i8nODIydU22M2_YQq0YIiIuGCZtRFpLkOegKPmbvbRxg23tqIZj-ulkcIHqp12niy1RrsMmvzTP9g7-uA77uhIyQY43W92eIykZ5/s1600/P1050168.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQy_yLEt5U36-i-bWGrinJDa6pHp2pNLcynIRxI6-i8nODIydU22M2_YQq0YIiIuGCZtRFpLkOegKPmbvbRxg23tqIZj-ulkcIHqp12niy1RrsMmvzTP9g7-uA77uhIyQY43W92eIykZ5/s400/P1050168.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741332342109959746" border="0" /></a>Ben was particularity excited to discover "his" letter.<br /></div><br />Another great thing about this activity is that you can you it for multiple subjects - we've done numbers, shapes, and his full name.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkBN08f6hg2f4N33qixkBT6w-bHwG4D0NPSpch6WkGzQHB83tSL_DGrgOlZRWH8ExETlfBjhBO0mcBFKNg8cDzBNc1D4ifDPtidvji3xEjzrQedS51__fKFCGOgwM3hGLys1axekQ1NEL/s1600/P1050165.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkBN08f6hg2f4N33qixkBT6w-bHwG4D0NPSpch6WkGzQHB83tSL_DGrgOlZRWH8ExETlfBjhBO0mcBFKNg8cDzBNc1D4ifDPtidvji3xEjzrQedS51__fKFCGOgwM3hGLys1axekQ1NEL/s400/P1050165.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5741332324589316658" border="0" /></a>You can even use it to make nice homemade cards.<br /><br /></div>What do you do to survive those stir-crazy afternoons?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-59112760173720893622012-04-20T12:27:00.002-05:002012-04-20T12:54:52.052-05:00Modern Triangle Quilt<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZqX7gjLLYAYlU_SGaM4eL3dKVmBFLIZFPi-n1HUbZXeHX00_2eeAZEvRGhdnfOFZHOzsEKxOEKLrY9La8yTTcb29tk7fFVj-N_eLRZ_c-PH1B5uGrgX49u6s0WdV1o0augfHcmeHC4br/s1600/P1040988.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 343px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZqX7gjLLYAYlU_SGaM4eL3dKVmBFLIZFPi-n1HUbZXeHX00_2eeAZEvRGhdnfOFZHOzsEKxOEKLrY9La8yTTcb29tk7fFVj-N_eLRZ_c-PH1B5uGrgX49u6s0WdV1o0augfHcmeHC4br/s400/P1040988.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733536232402450514" border="0" /></a>I'm so happy with how this quilt turned out!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkPOoMQCU8FJ9b8rR3zoJ0oHKjvmjtet12vest_RP5Ya7NymvyqcISjfa9xEKVFkFYEMBKB73MbQvMtv9_c9FiqUZ0lL9VuP5E7f_jbKI6JCcYERTSjmRju-9jFClHzuJaqUkqO93htjT/s1600/P1040986.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkPOoMQCU8FJ9b8rR3zoJ0oHKjvmjtet12vest_RP5Ya7NymvyqcISjfa9xEKVFkFYEMBKB73MbQvMtv9_c9FiqUZ0lL9VuP5E7f_jbKI6JCcYERTSjmRju-9jFClHzuJaqUkqO93htjT/s400/P1040986.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733536213826358498" border="0" /><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ben had to demonstrate how to use it. He likes to play on it, but he doesn't want it on his bed.<br /><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyAKnZOfMaCgbYXFUX0K1gDXjnvcW9MW1LRAsz38UIfzGPfqjlQ04IX1J-fUiaT-Hu5uCkaHOjC71NpLfKoJJapVdSOO63BeD6MR-2-xDJ9cn-kJdbvVJiW90E3O3AFhTl_dOQBYjbXg_/s1600/P1040990.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqyAKnZOfMaCgbYXFUX0K1gDXjnvcW9MW1LRAsz38UIfzGPfqjlQ04IX1J-fUiaT-Hu5uCkaHOjC71NpLfKoJJapVdSOO63BeD6MR-2-xDJ9cn-kJdbvVJiW90E3O3AFhTl_dOQBYjbXg_/s400/P1040990.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733536224648544706" border="0" /></a>I pieced the back with scraps so it could be reversible. I used <a href="http://www.redpepperquilts.com/2011/09/quilt-without-binding-tutorial.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RedPepperQuilts+%28Red+Pepper+Quilts%29">this tutorial</a> for quilting without binding (I find the binding process frustrating) and I'm so happy with the results. I think it adds to the modern look of the quilt. It's quilted all over with more triangles. This is my first time using a walking foot for quilting - definitely a worthy tool to have! I should stop being surprised how good tools make a big difference, but I always am.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-15177823486349301202012-04-17T13:46:00.004-05:002012-04-17T13:59:46.465-05:00Sweet Treat - Homemade Fudgesicles<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFBUdoQAGlNhywxBmPx-0htXyjmENPR_ooZrY9cE8MdF4_qItS7kfQnhzkyO7S_Oaigfjwllcsq-oC10AazjnXmKuw-2eZXTj46I_Ua7cjg-bhkjCSDtrg11wTWMXYQZB9rpwkY7Z4YK0/s1600/P1040980.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFBUdoQAGlNhywxBmPx-0htXyjmENPR_ooZrY9cE8MdF4_qItS7kfQnhzkyO7S_Oaigfjwllcsq-oC10AazjnXmKuw-2eZXTj46I_Ua7cjg-bhkjCSDtrg11wTWMXYQZB9rpwkY7Z4YK0/s320/P1040980.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732443230540648482" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I seriously ate half of the last one before I remembered I wanted to share the recipe.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:</span><br />1 pint of heavy whipping cream<br />2 tbs unsweetened cocoa powder<br />4-5 oz if chocolate, chopped or in chip form (I used 2oz of 100% cacao baker's chocolate and 2 oz 63% cacao chocolate chips)<br />2 tsp of vanilla extract<br />Popsicle mold<br /><br />Chop up your chocolate, if you need to, and place in a heat resistant bowl. In a sauce pan, heat cream, cocoa powder and vanilla to a simmer. Once simmering, remove from heat and pour into the bowl of chocolate. Stir until thoroughly combined. An immersion blender would be helpful, but isn't necessary. Carefully pour into molds and chill in the fridge for an hour or so, then move to the freezer. Ready in about three hours, makes 4-6 pops. So good they will not last more than 24 hours, keep them a secret if necessary. They aren't overly sweet, so if you like your pops sweeter, use milk chocolate chips. You're welcome :)<br /><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-51254070199068628352012-04-12T13:46:00.003-05:002012-04-12T14:11:56.812-05:00Weaving!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHr7hlA67cmHtnVNzXwpi2z9k0nN8LOunYcrbPo7AkSq9cDDbU4js-iEc3V_BrGzvuqcx0WIUQlIcbrFswGSJPKLC8KfMvxXKALSEb80edd8zGMk_ddfSiqCXQyGApVVC1L38NPPOiNuhT/s1600/P1040961.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHr7hlA67cmHtnVNzXwpi2z9k0nN8LOunYcrbPo7AkSq9cDDbU4js-iEc3V_BrGzvuqcx0WIUQlIcbrFswGSJPKLC8KfMvxXKALSEb80edd8zGMk_ddfSiqCXQyGApVVC1L38NPPOiNuhT/s320/P1040961.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730588153917870258" border="0" /></a><br />Last week, I was treated to a weaving class at <a href="http://www.hillcountryweavers.com/main/">Hill Country Weavers</a>. I don't NEED a new hobby, but it was really fun. And about as instant of gratification as you can get from a fiber craft.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7k6h1G-AUgHCV10vEpHtsh9IbYc7d88StZ6d81GLT2v6-1fk_Sr62qmeByHyNNHRUqiGpkPwsRvolPpVXih54nUB35iXa4yR5p-tb7iTjOSUI69BeyQTwdkKO-2n5Hqrr9DaqDprSrSTC/s1600/P1040962.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7k6h1G-AUgHCV10vEpHtsh9IbYc7d88StZ6d81GLT2v6-1fk_Sr62qmeByHyNNHRUqiGpkPwsRvolPpVXih54nUB35iXa4yR5p-tb7iTjOSUI69BeyQTwdkKO-2n5Hqrr9DaqDprSrSTC/s320/P1040962.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730588145843855922" border="0" /></a>For the scarf I made in class, I used some scraps from my stash. I think it came out surprisingly well! After that practice, it was time to get down to business. One of the great things about the class is that you get to borrow a loom for 5 weeks afterward (and if you decide to purchase it, you get a discount!).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht97rojDN7oNFlN0ZzumkJUTi7odY9-lqkICNjkKtGEUz42qebZsSz-qm2JtzcfZbVmGShp2IqW7bWPCMqbGwamCB17BLXvBxpARmQ3UNw3erNDWXuAL7uJYI3uZ1_l3uztslnwiQccIhF/s1600/P1040953.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht97rojDN7oNFlN0ZzumkJUTi7odY9-lqkICNjkKtGEUz42qebZsSz-qm2JtzcfZbVmGShp2IqW7bWPCMqbGwamCB17BLXvBxpARmQ3UNw3erNDWXuAL7uJYI3uZ1_l3uztslnwiQccIhF/s320/P1040953.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730588129529962866" border="0" /></a>So for my first "real" woven project, I made a subtle hounds tooth scarf with some <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-PureAlpaca.asp">Cascade Pure Alpaca</a>. It took longer than the first one, but that's because it is long - 87" long, not counting the 4 inches of fringe on the ends.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgqQ_rD2lZJIY0pLkiBKB04_VntcoYtnR7_-8WOuBveeDkbSW9zq6Yj0ZBlWrUo0DbOm_UlMP288PItC_9hNxHATlpvJ_XThOL5z1m7Ax9r0inkihd4XEd1R4rmru4ZehUH3lETG6TEfz/s1600/P1040957.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 220px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgqQ_rD2lZJIY0pLkiBKB04_VntcoYtnR7_-8WOuBveeDkbSW9zq6Yj0ZBlWrUo0DbOm_UlMP288PItC_9hNxHATlpvJ_XThOL5z1m7Ax9r0inkihd4XEd1R4rmru4ZehUH3lETG6TEfz/s320/P1040957.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730588142950507778" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(my modeled shots always fail)<br /></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbuH6tQ2MgRs1OB1Fz3Oupk-hxaAoTIleKc2yBEJ6520susNZqRkC2n9-eka8Vvc1mkWygEjgTP_bE223Kzu8nqUW-KKvudHJfUljuQKDJ8nepkLgAJ7KQGhMtqSFM0GjcdyFlrjVbmR3i/s1600/P1040947.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbuH6tQ2MgRs1OB1Fz3Oupk-hxaAoTIleKc2yBEJ6520susNZqRkC2n9-eka8Vvc1mkWygEjgTP_bE223Kzu8nqUW-KKvudHJfUljuQKDJ8nepkLgAJ7KQGhMtqSFM0GjcdyFlrjVbmR3i/s320/P1040947.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730588119528393826" border="0" /></a><br />It is soft a beautiful and I love it so much I might just be wearing it right now, despite the 80 degree weather. Hopefully I have enough time to make another one or two lovelies before I have to return the loom. Maybe if I'm extra-good this year, Santa will put one under the tree for me?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-68713232304327138342012-04-03T13:27:00.005-05:002012-04-03T13:41:29.402-05:00All Laid Out<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhoQQYAxNPd3dwUeDD-IXvW9Igohg86zFnJSNYiwjuDXcp0f_KKXtQhQmrVjhksWZ5hlSAl7PxCHfjoJULDHULSoDSpMOgOx4tPQS230DIekcbpNPr09xbCDNo8NExbQQxn1Xv3ZMZumr/s1600/P1040925.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhoQQYAxNPd3dwUeDD-IXvW9Igohg86zFnJSNYiwjuDXcp0f_KKXtQhQmrVjhksWZ5hlSAl7PxCHfjoJULDHULSoDSpMOgOx4tPQS230DIekcbpNPr09xbCDNo8NExbQQxn1Xv3ZMZumr/s400/P1040925.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727243150615548834" border="0" /></a><br />I've been working on a modern quilt on and off for a few months. I got some <a href="http://www.joann.com/fabric-central-sunny-triangle/zprd_11036464a/">pre-cut fabric packs</a> for Christmas (the triangles and the 2.5" strips). All the prints are floral, so I picked out the most graphic, modern ones because it's for Ben. Since most of the prints are rather small, using all of them would have looked to busy for the effect I was going for. I am quite pleased with how it looks laid out, but I'm worried about some of the slightly wonkier blocks.<br /><br />Ben "helps" me sometimes. He's actually really happy to sit and take the pins out of the finished strips and put them in the pincushion. He knows the quilt is for him and he even picked out a fat quarter of extra fabric and demanded it be included. It was black and white, who was I to argue?<br /><br />Warmer weather always makes me want to drop my knitting and sew. I ordered the <a href="http://www.marmaladefabrics.com/loulouthi-morning-large-quilt-bundle-p-1764.html">Loulouthi Morning Quilt</a> bundle today. Aren't the colors and prints so happy? The plan is to make it for our bed.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWhBijELWAOIyo8VQVBGefARRRTL51Ja5e0YaXlxGKArFd28_7SLjqha2tzhmByMYZQ7zmZi7EGhKjO9nF37jRmiQX2nESz7tTMMoKImvyBGkq8t_XWJQ4YOcGMUOeORAgQOVOd4j9mPd/s1600/Loulouthi_Large-med.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWhBijELWAOIyo8VQVBGefARRRTL51Ja5e0YaXlxGKArFd28_7SLjqha2tzhmByMYZQ7zmZi7EGhKjO9nF37jRmiQX2nESz7tTMMoKImvyBGkq8t_XWJQ4YOcGMUOeORAgQOVOd4j9mPd/s400/Loulouthi_Large-med.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727245768921254050" border="0" /></a>You can find the free pattern at <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2011/08/loulouthi-tiles-free-pattern-download.html">Stitched in Color</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-85515827499823922912012-04-01T11:26:00.004-05:002012-04-01T11:40:36.386-05:00Easter Bunnies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_bS7d3W3ST7o99RM9Tt7_6AFPGdKjpcQfzAsJ456KMR56aqhQ015IDGf848xs6l8ducmi6K0gE5sA5kugkNSKs4Q3UvvLS6ORIrqh3I-tSMs4jMcld9LNNHYbCFGtaWjnyED76tnBXC4/s1600/Bunny+Tutu.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_bS7d3W3ST7o99RM9Tt7_6AFPGdKjpcQfzAsJ456KMR56aqhQ015IDGf848xs6l8ducmi6K0gE5sA5kugkNSKs4Q3UvvLS6ORIrqh3I-tSMs4jMcld9LNNHYbCFGtaWjnyED76tnBXC4/s320/Bunny+Tutu.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726469869858106338" border="0" /></a>Pattern: <a href="http://petitepurls.com/Fall09/fall2009_anything.html">Anything Animals</a>(free!)<br />Yarn: Worsted weight scraps<br />Needles: 6<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaOK3nWHytMq77o1ilWnXTUzR3mw_kR1UAJHWEBTrhMEKyGkk_UNZ5nZ9cPrLWUadoYJr-VLhUyZzNscatUNJyVpwKjju4nDxp445wf9HiV8HAEEMZcnXGtP1vRs-C84wbgXi03DWU7-7i/s1600/Two+Bunnies.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaOK3nWHytMq77o1ilWnXTUzR3mw_kR1UAJHWEBTrhMEKyGkk_UNZ5nZ9cPrLWUadoYJr-VLhUyZzNscatUNJyVpwKjju4nDxp445wf9HiV8HAEEMZcnXGtP1vRs-C84wbgXi03DWU7-7i/s320/Two+Bunnies.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726469873693679618" border="0" /></a>These little guys are even cuter in person! I made them for Ben and a friend's Easter baskets. They are quick, fun, and a little addictive...so quick that there's still time to make one or two before Easter. If rabbits aren't your thing, the pattern has instructions for making various kinds of ears or hair to create whatever creature you desire.<br /><br />The tutu was my own adaptation.<br />To make the tutu, knit 7 rows in the shirt color in stockinette, then knit a row on the purl side. This will give you purl bumps on the right side.<br />Continue knitting the body per the pattern. (I switched to the tutu color at this point.)<br />When the body is completed, use a crochet hook to attach the yarn through one purl bump on the left side of the body.<br />Chain 5, then slip sts through the 3rd purl bump. Chain 5 again, and slip sts through the 5th purl bump. Continue to chain 5 and attach to every other purl bump all the way across and tie off.<br />I knit the legs in the same colors as well to give the appearance of stockings.<br /><br />I didn't get a picture of it, but they also have little pom pom tails in the back.<br /><br />Happy Spring knitting!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-36144272117435307622012-03-23T14:40:00.003-05:002012-03-23T15:02:44.570-05:00Sweet Gift<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQyJE2nqSCHU9icWv51Gt-ejq2hYT6PZi4dVtZ8vtlnH7oUi_3EjBZAKHvKv1AKBIgVNVgpPEUlhHtfpzkdQcH-357l6d-1xpXoYawUy1DuiEnM565kXCelja8dlxd5c8JtM_FY8RFN1P/s1600/P1040844.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQyJE2nqSCHU9icWv51Gt-ejq2hYT6PZi4dVtZ8vtlnH7oUi_3EjBZAKHvKv1AKBIgVNVgpPEUlhHtfpzkdQcH-357l6d-1xpXoYawUy1DuiEnM565kXCelja8dlxd5c8JtM_FY8RFN1P/s320/P1040844.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723180767706079538" border="0" /></a>One of the lovely gifts I got for my birthday this year was a "party in a box" from my sister. I love getting boxes of fun stuff in the mail and I think this is such a thoughtful gift. There was a sneak preview CD from <a href="http://www.poaporchband.com/fr_home.cfm">her band</a>, a handwritten and water-colored recipe for vanilla buttercream, cupcake wrappers, ribbon, and custom cupcake toppers!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNY1gVRmF6plLTYl3awsv_bY-wRp7x-ME8altIqZu0H8aBIHTzXFqMfXLoA6QS-oOkBTi8LL9vuJpvvuT1rkmoO77K441beLKQhuuxJQbIkrxkXV4DBgFNDoI_XzYK0QMIMzZ0v8UKYGj/s1600/P1040841.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNY1gVRmF6plLTYl3awsv_bY-wRp7x-ME8altIqZu0H8aBIHTzXFqMfXLoA6QS-oOkBTi8LL9vuJpvvuT1rkmoO77K441beLKQhuuxJQbIkrxkXV4DBgFNDoI_XzYK0QMIMzZ0v8UKYGj/s320/P1040841.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723180770680896386" border="0" /></a>There was also a sweet birthday banner and bunting. Just add friends, and you have a party!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQyJE2nqSCHU9icWv51Gt-ejq2hYT6PZi4dVtZ8vtlnH7oUi_3EjBZAKHvKv1AKBIgVNVgpPEUlhHtfpzkdQcH-357l6d-1xpXoYawUy1DuiEnM565kXCelja8dlxd5c8JtM_FY8RFN1P/s1600/P1040844.JPG"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0VCQFjfCTysFKjwnJbeRyME6xzLoD2kXHrhZT2enYDlpkiq_lp-4pob-bjqf30_PAmpqLXG_Mrl5p14sxUnrp_thPbbwSOJmYaXOWXHyc17eUCGSDRkO7DU0aHSAG_89vq1u0g_POJJ_/s1600/P1040836.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii0VCQFjfCTysFKjwnJbeRyME6xzLoD2kXHrhZT2enYDlpkiq_lp-4pob-bjqf30_PAmpqLXG_Mrl5p14sxUnrp_thPbbwSOJmYaXOWXHyc17eUCGSDRkO7DU0aHSAG_89vq1u0g_POJJ_/s320/P1040836.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723180775249541138" border="0" /></a>In addition to being an awesome sister and gift-giver, she is an excellent musician. She contributes her talents to various bands and she is currently raising funds via <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/peasant-orchestra/envelope-peasant-and-the-scientific-orchestra-is-r">Kickstarter</a> to record an album with <a href="http://envelopepeasant.com/">Envelope Peasant and the Scientific Orchestra </a>. Check them out, you need some new music in your life!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-76842577327679419792012-03-16T12:27:00.002-05:002012-03-16T12:36:11.785-05:00Matchy-Matchy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRKcCAfuS2IxYzjgrZ8B6xD47sKPcKQc8eqIpPgwCI41SzNBresjx-mnNFeDw-0v7U7W_83mH5dSKUIo88RG5E7mDSX7q2WUSVt025mlOsa9WddTrUL28b_xTAcygPTg-M2NbLFk0DDha/s1600/P1040806.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyRKcCAfuS2IxYzjgrZ8B6xD47sKPcKQc8eqIpPgwCI41SzNBresjx-mnNFeDw-0v7U7W_83mH5dSKUIo88RG5E7mDSX7q2WUSVt025mlOsa9WddTrUL28b_xTAcygPTg-M2NbLFk0DDha/s400/P1040806.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720548165377289090" border="0" /></a><br />My new pot of miniature roses and my birthday pedicure are so on trend, aren't they? My Knockout Coral Drifters I planted last spring aren't blooming yet, so I'm happy to have these little grocery store wonders by my back door. The insane color of the blooms and the dark green of the leaves gets me every time.<br />I'm also anxiously awaiting a bud or bloom on the more lady-like Belinda's Dream rose I got for Mother's day last year. It was a tough summer, but I'm hoping all of this wonderful spring rain will make up for it.<br />I'm spending my weekend in the backyard. I've got big plans for the desolate flower bed. What are you doing?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-21386571327762496602012-03-09T13:45:00.003-06:002012-03-09T14:06:15.043-06:00Shalom Cardi<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bRM7lPWg_b6kju-IlWoFQJPfnemxZ0Sicflr0weG_GYE-sJzYuAhMRBnoEy10ARFJveZDoQVrYDaFHE-1a_6XKQiUkx6K-000qBtomHyQljNj516SoNVaSv1_CI_X2U4MlopZeWezIGl/s1600/P1040763.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bRM7lPWg_b6kju-IlWoFQJPfnemxZ0Sicflr0weG_GYE-sJzYuAhMRBnoEy10ARFJveZDoQVrYDaFHE-1a_6XKQiUkx6K-000qBtomHyQljNj516SoNVaSv1_CI_X2U4MlopZeWezIGl/s400/P1040763.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717986428925659090" border="0" /></a><br />Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/shalom-cardigan">Shalom Cardigan </a> (free!)<br />Yarn: Plymouth Yarn Royal Llama Linen (discontinued)<br />Needle: size 8 (I think)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjY3LZ4bWClmoX7WFZvB4JTnIfKxE-64oLXkUfDhgEQvfH7NT7Ie5ZEjtL0lXV4iSa1xQrJRvgIoQ6uxSK4tfGeyd2XW-wt87pdeqRaFF0Rf3lNeXMhycgV8v4oVPl7oy6wDs-J2YjWiGu/s1600/P1040765.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjY3LZ4bWClmoX7WFZvB4JTnIfKxE-64oLXkUfDhgEQvfH7NT7Ie5ZEjtL0lXV4iSa1xQrJRvgIoQ6uxSK4tfGeyd2XW-wt87pdeqRaFF0Rf3lNeXMhycgV8v4oVPl7oy6wDs-J2YjWiGu/s400/P1040765.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717986435655581266" border="0" /></a><br /><br />First off, I apologize for the poor photos. It's raining today and even if it wasn't, my camera is getting a bit long in the tooth. Anyway, I am finally calling this one done. I started it way back in June. It's a good pattern and a million people have made it so there's lots of helpful notes on Ravelry. I got the yarn on super sale from Webs some Christmas past. It's beautiful, the pictures don't do the color justice. Llama, linen AND silk, married together in tweedy glory? Awesome.<br /><br />Except that the yarn screwed me. The glory of the Shalom pattern is that it's easy to customize it to your personal body type. I happen to have a long torso and broad shoulders, so I knit this to accommodate those little features. I so badly wanted this to be the Perfect Cardigan that I ripped out 10 inches (!!!!) at one point because I thought the armholes were too baggy.<br /><br />So I finally got it right. And like a good little knitter, I blocked it. And disaster struck. It grew. And got really drapey. I thought about ripping it out and doing it again, but I reinforced the button holes (so badly hoping for perfection) and that made it too hard to rip. I literally threw the damn thing into the closet.<br /><br />Then some helpful and more fashionable friends said it wasn't a total loss if I put a belt with it. So I bought a belt and did a single crochet around the neckline to make it less baggy and ta-da! not a total loss. Such is life and knitting.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKLd8W_4WYTv77pZzLTesjkxRihpDcbHyHQ4Fzlk_eTjqmye6kUZuXRA1xrunLLD2Tu0yV7MvvCwOizo9Bth3V3kjH3hlhxU3OoDUXTSI_v1dtvg_xiZtwbuPMS13mfnXTtFsWUdTvUAW/s1600/P1040743.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKLd8W_4WYTv77pZzLTesjkxRihpDcbHyHQ4Fzlk_eTjqmye6kUZuXRA1xrunLLD2Tu0yV7MvvCwOizo9Bth3V3kjH3hlhxU3OoDUXTSI_v1dtvg_xiZtwbuPMS13mfnXTtFsWUdTvUAW/s400/P1040743.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717986409566469890" border="0" /></a>In other news, a pair of cardinals have been gracing my bird feeder lately. Aren't they sweet?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmu3nBdQyXgfBAkueNfQLuQzqOtn4lIjk6Ld5HRAZXW_w-SPw4iDtfFXHxTPNmDNeKhIByAgO3afd4ftCwNB2_Fv8AdeJ-87ZUrY_Yqt0XIX29YX-MSLroTOg9ASH3Te93-bmtRnS0TUgE/s1600/P1040747.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmu3nBdQyXgfBAkueNfQLuQzqOtn4lIjk6Ld5HRAZXW_w-SPw4iDtfFXHxTPNmDNeKhIByAgO3afd4ftCwNB2_Fv8AdeJ-87ZUrY_Yqt0XIX29YX-MSLroTOg9ASH3Te93-bmtRnS0TUgE/s400/P1040747.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717986418246226610" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKLd8W_4WYTv77pZzLTesjkxRihpDcbHyHQ4Fzlk_eTjqmye6kUZuXRA1xrunLLD2Tu0yV7MvvCwOizo9Bth3V3kjH3hlhxU3OoDUXTSI_v1dtvg_xiZtwbuPMS13mfnXTtFsWUdTvUAW/s1600/P1040743.JPG"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjY3LZ4bWClmoX7WFZvB4JTnIfKxE-64oLXkUfDhgEQvfH7NT7Ie5ZEjtL0lXV4iSa1xQrJRvgIoQ6uxSK4tfGeyd2XW-wt87pdeqRaFF0Rf3lNeXMhycgV8v4oVPl7oy6wDs-J2YjWiGu/s1600/P1040765.JPG"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-76735207809179329222012-03-06T12:57:00.005-06:002012-03-06T13:32:39.947-06:00PLaydough Color Surprise Activity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhkcnchr8bY-sy2Cd1iDquJTn36G7CWsDe8AEpczQLNaEdNoynAzc95ySs4Qj40gyHSY75TY6FShL8Xu0KzUwYKX_wX-YBOdE4ua23Z-RDJx8kMqI0Fp-bAapGNelziLAto80D5XnNCyP/s1600/P1040698.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhkcnchr8bY-sy2Cd1iDquJTn36G7CWsDe8AEpczQLNaEdNoynAzc95ySs4Qj40gyHSY75TY6FShL8Xu0KzUwYKX_wX-YBOdE4ua23Z-RDJx8kMqI0Fp-bAapGNelziLAto80D5XnNCyP/s400/P1040698.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716864518343695602" border="0" /></a><br />I think you either love or hate playdough as a parent. I love it. It offers hours of endless, open, independent play. I extended the activity by adding an element of surprise. Here's how:<br /><br />Make some natural-colored playdough. I use this recipe:<br />~ in a large sauce pan, mix together 2 c plain flour, 2 cups of water, 1 tbs of cooking oil, 1 tsp of cream of tartar and 1 c of salt. Stir over medium high heat until thick and dough-y. Remove form heat and let cool.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BUbukPLofoC4cZXKLgkQK3F9vlIp11hBDByb9UX6AEpIt8lRH327HxUtxOBQVl9egIglgbXN1eqdj3YeIXRB4S3OtYUp15HJ3tVNpVqjs5CxFJBKk1MBfX_p-oN5ok7yrM75tYf7jFUe/s1600/P1040701.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6BUbukPLofoC4cZXKLgkQK3F9vlIp11hBDByb9UX6AEpIt8lRH327HxUtxOBQVl9egIglgbXN1eqdj3YeIXRB4S3OtYUp15HJ3tVNpVqjs5CxFJBKk1MBfX_p-oN5ok7yrM75tYf7jFUe/s400/P1040701.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716864505137797074" border="0" /></a>When the dough is cool enough to handle, divide it up into small balls (I would guess about the size of a lime.) Put a dent in each ball with your thumb and fill with a few drops of food coloring. Pinch the dough closed over the food coloring, careful not to squeeze it out. Let sit 5-10 minutes for the food coloring to slightly absorb.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuBn5swf35V2zRrv_Yvl-mhBSUKc7jcR-WdoFmelHcJyautCLmlpV3dBO3F6oHaGG4LM2hQAZi-VjV3hRnmEWHwIzE7s9eIRHNrlF4ngbly02Z-02cB2Gcnz5bk_4VNUfof-4QRAt_o8ev/s1600/P1040704.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 374px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuBn5swf35V2zRrv_Yvl-mhBSUKc7jcR-WdoFmelHcJyautCLmlpV3dBO3F6oHaGG4LM2hQAZi-VjV3hRnmEWHwIzE7s9eIRHNrlF4ngbly02Z-02cB2Gcnz5bk_4VNUfof-4QRAt_o8ev/s400/P1040704.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716864508830483506" border="0" /></a>Hand over the dough balls to your little ones and encourage them to knead them around. The color with slowly work its way out, marbling the dough and eventually becoming all one color.<br /><br />This is a great way to build hand strength, especially if you make the balls too large - you'll be the one working those muscles while your toddler repeats over and over, "What color, Mommy?"Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-68840327328406723222012-02-29T12:34:00.005-06:002012-02-29T12:54:57.381-06:00My Guy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-S4YEnkT92N8hR1dpJYEWLcVlfgwOr3lkOlLm1O5_Kuepe90vuQN4it5ytVuHQ8Y2kiLi1KQLzjIapg4-wAMwHQJj8K4qLEcVwbE8gsmCbAXVWOMc-F3oASAjjKytQh7hEFhDiLrvnPr/s1600/P1040652.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-S4YEnkT92N8hR1dpJYEWLcVlfgwOr3lkOlLm1O5_Kuepe90vuQN4it5ytVuHQ8Y2kiLi1KQLzjIapg4-wAMwHQJj8K4qLEcVwbE8gsmCbAXVWOMc-F3oASAjjKytQh7hEFhDiLrvnPr/s400/P1040652.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714628810412128578" border="0" /></a><br />A little while back, Ben and I collaborated on a guy for him. Not a doll, or a baby, but a guy. His name is "My Guy" in fact. He's bigger and heavier than the other dolls I've made, standing about 16" tall. Ben picked out the fabric for the clothes, the button on the shirt (he loves buttons) and the color of his "hair". My Guy was supposed to have blue hair, but Ben liked the crocheted wig cap so much as a hat, I just left it as is.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM6cw86uOPtsuG3wQpUxylboCGphr9Y_fzGVvY-bTBAbAFiYSHNOT_EyGrlZboXRZTsPyRcAQLQ_iKwQ8G-aH4mcq9ncXgHO6B5T-wCnAiRIbzA4s6nFbVco6EUoyrLKxrhWTl2Q2bc9re/s1600/P1040661.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM6cw86uOPtsuG3wQpUxylboCGphr9Y_fzGVvY-bTBAbAFiYSHNOT_EyGrlZboXRZTsPyRcAQLQ_iKwQ8G-aH4mcq9ncXgHO6B5T-wCnAiRIbzA4s6nFbVco6EUoyrLKxrhWTl2Q2bc9re/s400/P1040661.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714628806177171970" border="0" /></a>My Guy is currently in the closet because Ben has zero interest in him now that the sewing portion is done. That's ok. We passed several pleasant afternoons sorting buttons and sewing together. He's old enough now to sit on my lap with his hands on mine and sew. He loves all things machine, so my big grey heavy duty Singer machine is way more interesting than a doll. Or guy. I let him do the reverse button and turn the wheel. The other day, I took it apart to clean and oil it and he thought that was pretty awesome. We're currently making a quilt together.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-S4YEnkT92N8hR1dpJYEWLcVlfgwOr3lkOlLm1O5_Kuepe90vuQN4it5ytVuHQ8Y2kiLi1KQLzjIapg4-wAMwHQJj8K4qLEcVwbE8gsmCbAXVWOMc-F3oASAjjKytQh7hEFhDiLrvnPr/s1600/P1040652.JPG"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-9145822702404525782012-02-10T13:02:00.003-06:002012-02-10T13:33:32.172-06:00Toddler Valentine's Cards<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">*WARNING* If you are a Lolli, Grandad, Nana, Papa, or Yia-Yia, don't look past the first picture! It will ruin your surprise!</span><br /></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYe7Kln9rTG7CdxNgs10nFZbpt0D5zcljNdY1D6doheQbAClBjs9E7pQ7ZhGYCA6bqXuIJY2lssXaY7tC2Ij81yFQ_h2WwNjAtpEk3fKPeacr4wyVHMDLNbtYXM4q77ZLgneSghQfX65I/s1600/P1040684.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYe7Kln9rTG7CdxNgs10nFZbpt0D5zcljNdY1D6doheQbAClBjs9E7pQ7ZhGYCA6bqXuIJY2lssXaY7tC2Ij81yFQ_h2WwNjAtpEk3fKPeacr4wyVHMDLNbtYXM4q77ZLgneSghQfX65I/s400/P1040684.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707584968216115954" border="0" /></a><br />Last year, when all the blogs were abuzz with cute Valentine's days crafts, I have to admit I felt a little left out. Ben was only about 14 months old and I think I'd barely worked up the courage to let him wield a washable marker. But this year, he's a self-proclaimed "big boy" with a few months of painting experience under his belt so we dove right into making some special cards for the grandparents. They are simple, sweet, and the right ratio of messy:easy to clean up.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7IkdEcsZ0SrVUFvCTMjyfdTVSkfter8GrlnpGCcJSENzl9LUluY_bo0wLp3-bX9pXVIGMRBQtkb3ASZVdi8-n_cVMFRosimIbMBYgwIARC_QuTkZLK2hOY3FPsFKWaYVuNDdTGn9-yn4/s1600/P1040686.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 293px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7IkdEcsZ0SrVUFvCTMjyfdTVSkfter8GrlnpGCcJSENzl9LUluY_bo0wLp3-bX9pXVIGMRBQtkb3ASZVdi8-n_cVMFRosimIbMBYgwIARC_QuTkZLK2hOY3FPsFKWaYVuNDdTGn9-yn4/s400/P1040686.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707584954114041154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">You will need:</span> White cardstock, paint, <a href="http://www.michaels.com/pre-cut-foam-mounting-dots/gc2145,default,pd.html?start=7&cgid=products-generalcrafts-glueandadhesives">foam mounting dots</a> (or just glue, if you don't have them on hand), a <a href="http://www.michaels.com/Martha-Stewart-Crafts%E2%84%A2-Heart-Craft-Punch/pc0757,default,pd.html?cgid=products-scrapbooking-marthastewartcrafts-punches&start=2">heart punch</a>, envelopes to fit the cards in once done.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 1:</span> Let your kiddo paint all over a piece of cardstock or two. I think the secret to success in making gift art is to limit the color palette so everything doesn't end up just brown. I offered him red, pink and purple and he went to town. While the kiddo is painting, fold some blank sheets of cardstock in half, as many as you want. The paint should be all mixed together by now, ready for step 2.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 2: </span>Set aside the painted on pieces of paper to dry. Take a deep breath, dip your kid's hand into the paint, and "stamp" it onto the paper cards you folded. Be sure to make one for yourself!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-nU7UQFOQ26TGZV-SAt6Kar-_lInLI3vwWFmtkIfb0pTSZel2zGByJ4xiesWWDjCTWxKHU1wTXHxDXE6od3-4kLUwxZ5cqrUj1IPMWFAPzp5TAREEQGFQ-tr09YxnzZ2Xe-bX3qjgAzo/s1600/P1040691.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs-nU7UQFOQ26TGZV-SAt6Kar-_lInLI3vwWFmtkIfb0pTSZel2zGByJ4xiesWWDjCTWxKHU1wTXHxDXE6od3-4kLUwxZ5cqrUj1IPMWFAPzp5TAREEQGFQ-tr09YxnzZ2Xe-bX3qjgAzo/s400/P1040691.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707584950753102962" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 3:</span> Set the hand print cards aside to to dry. Clean up all the paint and hands and walls and have a drink if necessary (ha ha). The toddler paintings should be dry by now. Use the hole punch and punch hearts out from the painted paper. Ben loved this part best, we made lots of hearts!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 4:</span> Use the foam mounting dots or glue to add hearts to the card.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Step 5: </span>Fill out the inside of the card with your message and send to your loved ones!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WkpCpfnvhqC4pC3-SKY20lxIjE1gtz1V_fwYtroIgf31Y-FaqkE-MHUvHV1-62GXZ4m0iVFeDH40BIZKNgmieSxjF_lE7MoaJbHxYEaTvIF90jd443CgHXS8ralonPO9koG1Dypv3wmp/s1600/P1040694.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WkpCpfnvhqC4pC3-SKY20lxIjE1gtz1V_fwYtroIgf31Y-FaqkE-MHUvHV1-62GXZ4m0iVFeDH40BIZKNgmieSxjF_lE7MoaJbHxYEaTvIF90jd443CgHXS8ralonPO9koG1Dypv3wmp/s400/P1040694.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707584946835026914" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bonus Round:</span> Use leftover painted paper to make note cards with a heart punched out. Also, just go a little crazy with the heart punch. I know I did!<br /><br />Ben really seemed to enjoy doing this. He kept saying "Dec-rate gift cards!". I have no idea why he was calling them gift cards, but it was really cute and made my day! It was a happy way to spend the morning.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-44155374734840080322012-02-08T13:14:00.003-06:002012-02-08T13:37:01.266-06:00The River Ombre<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBIWx0kYqklJdW9pprJKerGv6_eAx3pEX05e7jys899jwQNOnf3_gIdf9GBqFmJESUCQ-SwnBEVlj3yyeT5-aR03TK3EXS3aWn6Alc3UA42zrtzm5td_5PoKMiMQlni7IdUdtRrPxWKVd/s1600/P1040678.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBIWx0kYqklJdW9pprJKerGv6_eAx3pEX05e7jys899jwQNOnf3_gIdf9GBqFmJESUCQ-SwnBEVlj3yyeT5-aR03TK3EXS3aWn6Alc3UA42zrtzm5td_5PoKMiMQlni7IdUdtRrPxWKVd/s400/P1040678.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706845793579543090" border="0" /></a><br />Pattern: <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/lexer/kalajoki">Kalajoki</a><br />Yarn: Knit Picks <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Bare_Stroll_Fingering_Sock_Yarn_Dye_Blank__D5420174.html">Bare Stroll Sock Blank</a><br />(Post about dying this yarn <a href="http://wagonfullofstars.blogspot.com/2011/03/happy-st-patricks-day.html">here</a>)<br />Needles: Size 2 dpns<br /><br />I loved how these turned out! It was my first time knitting knee socks and my first time using a charted pattern. The chart was a bit daunting at first, but once I color-coded the symbols, it went smoothly. This is a relatively fast pattern, since most of it is stockinette. It was probably not the best choice for knee socks, since they seem to be a little saggy after wearing, but it doesn't really bother me since I'll only be wearing them around the house.<br />Oh, and I used the Streets and YOs <a href="http://www.streetsandyos.com/archives/2006/04/knee_socks.php">Knee Socks!</a> pattern to adapt the original. And, as usual, I knit these toe-up. That prevented me from continuing in pattern to the tip of the toe, but I think they still look ok. I'm happy I got them done in time to wear during what little cold weather we have left. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrpVrvvU4Y7_S1OFNfmKVY5OJxyC2EcWRK5z_1ST9xLaGypzJ3yQ1WvEVw7Erq3mkfkHYn8YTeQxMKa2t-_O47FWDzER-Oile4B788F08OE3HYk2Yc53HC2A7ttlFSB1KO1DOXFVPnbS8/s1600/P1040683.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 396px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrpVrvvU4Y7_S1OFNfmKVY5OJxyC2EcWRK5z_1ST9xLaGypzJ3yQ1WvEVw7Erq3mkfkHYn8YTeQxMKa2t-_O47FWDzER-Oile4B788F08OE3HYk2Yc53HC2A7ttlFSB1KO1DOXFVPnbS8/s400/P1040683.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706845786836977906" border="0" /></a>It is not easy taking pictures of yourself in knee socks!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-70832707500516239992012-01-26T09:13:00.004-06:002012-01-26T09:24:14.201-06:0063x53 = awesome<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuFgQ3y3CwK1vcELFVr0WJQO3dOBXPD9U6mVfb69QyB5iqGZhtZvDmbSyiA6ceic6KWc2Kw1XWEx6QgrVdXK_JgNePH6ZX4w9bPpkkzwFXf_oCbEJFx7VnE1XM1EDzRIT-Kh8R181QkVW/s1600/P1040629.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuFgQ3y3CwK1vcELFVr0WJQO3dOBXPD9U6mVfb69QyB5iqGZhtZvDmbSyiA6ceic6KWc2Kw1XWEx6QgrVdXK_JgNePH6ZX4w9bPpkkzwFXf_oCbEJFx7VnE1XM1EDzRIT-Kh8R181QkVW/s320/P1040629.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701959364734437810" border="0" /></a>I finished this <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/2010/05/granny-striping.html">Granny Stripes</a> blanket a few weeks ago. I started it around Thanksgiving. It was meant to be 45" x 45", but due to a newbie mistake I made the chain way too long, so I just hooked until I ran out of yarn. It's a great size for snuggling under on the couch and it is definitely my largest fiber project to date. I used the Debbie Stoller Washable Ewe. It's soft and while I haven't tired washing it yet, it's nice to know I can. I learned a lesson about why blankets are usually done in acrylic. Not only is it cheaper, but the static that this thing generates is epic!<br /><br />Crochet is so much faster than knitting, I'm having a hard time picking up my needles again. There are so many WIPs at this point I'm feeling a little overwhelmed. That coupled with my usual late winter blues leaves me with little motivation to knit and even less to blog. But I'm daydreaming of Spring and planning my garden and I know that this is all temporary!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-5768962130715224952011-11-18T13:35:00.001-06:002011-11-18T13:37:30.539-06:00Happy Hooking<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVQ44rkKAU5pOAPkkLR9a_cBYZZ7iAF79PfRgHciyGq5oV7mYyILpmW1fAJi21_GfVmZRQWRthmzP9418AkizxjeYCReWfJr90R_HYb_aLd395aeMHpi1rm-EXyOJA1p96VaAAbSvYZ_6R/s1600/crochet+pear.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVQ44rkKAU5pOAPkkLR9a_cBYZZ7iAF79PfRgHciyGq5oV7mYyILpmW1fAJi21_GfVmZRQWRthmzP9418AkizxjeYCReWfJr90R_HYb_aLd395aeMHpi1rm-EXyOJA1p96VaAAbSvYZ_6R/s320/crochet+pear.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5676419955364515570" border="0" /></a>This have been busy around here lately. A birthday, a craft fair, the usual life stuff. But I have managed to find a bit of time to do some of the <a href="http://www.craftyminx.com/crochet-school/">Crochet School</a> lessons...I'm woefully behind the class, but I can actually crochet things! Like that happy green pear for Ben's new play kitchen. It took less than a day to make, even with my newbie skills. I want to crochet a whole cornucopia for him to play with now.<br />Find the pattern for the pear and other fruits and veggies <a href="http://www.coatsandclark.com/Crafts/Crochet/Projects/HomeDec/WR1070+Crocheted+Fruits+and+Vegetables+Basket.htm">here</a>. This guy has some holes in him where you can see the stuffing, but I imagine that's from needing to use a smaller hook. I used some random worsted weight cotton for both the body and the stem (which is navy blue, but oh well!) I apologize for the less than gorgeous photo, but well, it's cold today, I'm tired, and I can't be bothered to find my camera right now.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-49139668225205979022011-10-13T21:17:00.001-05:002011-10-13T21:17:00.481-05:00Awesome Books - First Art<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YqdjyVcN-vqgyg9prt2b7SlIJPTJi991ue-TT1Ld9206EV4DowkVXo4UYGCZMLZBIxW2sJhIExsrUNMBSbvWORifxwYy93FAkwD0Hbcfj8CpRx5Y6_62KDsO8Mq2cMYsDfmnQvrQWGUo/s1600/P1040111.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YqdjyVcN-vqgyg9prt2b7SlIJPTJi991ue-TT1Ld9206EV4DowkVXo4UYGCZMLZBIxW2sJhIExsrUNMBSbvWORifxwYy93FAkwD0Hbcfj8CpRx5Y6_62KDsO8Mq2cMYsDfmnQvrQWGUo/s320/P1040111.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662796250391955890" border="0" /></a>I discovered this book browsing on Amazon...I can't remember what, exactly, I was shopping for that it came up in my recommendations, but I'm happy that I clicked the link and even happier to borrow it from the library.<br /><br />This book is chock-full of great ideas. All of the suggestions are given a messiness rating and almost everything can be done with items you probably already have. There are recipes for multiple kinds of play clay, paint, and other entertaining and creative goops. There are so many ideas in here for process-oriented art making that we could get to kindergarten. The author helpfully explains what the child will learn from the activity, ways to adapt it to the children at hand, and keeps the supplies largely limited to things that are easy to find and non-toxic.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_N3jvS9InlINiHe4UGkE686LBNwr3wcxUN1pbh9CMudoot59cSVAQ-DHcgzd5-Ubv0KshlGJjkYkquDRMbodbDCK71ZQbuhVbaI8RsEdMuCXylBa_HEkGKYakocClfGfWG7i0LqmDiDof/s1600/P1040081.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_N3jvS9InlINiHe4UGkE686LBNwr3wcxUN1pbh9CMudoot59cSVAQ-DHcgzd5-Ubv0KshlGJjkYkquDRMbodbDCK71ZQbuhVbaI8RsEdMuCXylBa_HEkGKYakocClfGfWG7i0LqmDiDof/s320/P1040081.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662796252293041074" border="0" /></a>The first thing we tried was water painting. It seemed too easy. A bucket 1/4 full of water and a paint brush. Really? Really. Entertained him for a looong time. For days, he demanded to play the "new game". And since it was so hot when we did this, the water evaporated quickly. Clean slate every few minutes!<br /><br />Of course, the inevitable happened:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOifl5vPrh25KrWi7cJ8zWkOmWa87d1h16Ch4zKG0pLT89q3P6dhVJ15TzlQxjkexbbuAUbIYiryMzE9mrBA3iax0Kv1AJtZecT8rUap8Higznodee5r87z-Obgxqv8Xr5VbhhyphenhyphenPqPahlx/s1600/P1040086.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOifl5vPrh25KrWi7cJ8zWkOmWa87d1h16Ch4zKG0pLT89q3P6dhVJ15TzlQxjkexbbuAUbIYiryMzE9mrBA3iax0Kv1AJtZecT8rUap8Higznodee5r87z-Obgxqv8Xr5VbhhyphenhyphenPqPahlx/s320/P1040086.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662796260084370162" border="0" /></a>But so what? It was just a little water and he and I had fun making wet footprints from the puddle. I think even the most mess-phobic mamas can enjoy this one.<br /><br />We also tired an aluminum foil activity that was a fail. I was to inspired to buy him an enormous newsprint pad with my Michael's coupon and that has also been a huge hit. That's the other great thing about these projects. Because they are about the process and not the product, the activities can be done for extended periods of time or repeated day after day.<br /><br />If parents could give parent gifts rather than Melissa and Doug puzzles at birthday parties, I would be giving this book to anyone with a toddler. This book, and a bottle of wine. : )Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-52462017947843499002011-10-12T10:47:00.005-05:002011-10-12T10:47:01.035-05:00The Best Little Yarn Crawl in Texas 2011<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hTuwLOEPztg0UdOqXavG_uf-vTjhi9stIYR4GUm2i7pZydBcF_vWJueZHFPMWwEizaJvJ9O0yu-JrEJWVyMl1xTj1kqUhFdC941kB39xCuODGhMFW6yW9htJh7yxqFB74pMXTaNrWQwn/s1600/P1040225.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hTuwLOEPztg0UdOqXavG_uf-vTjhi9stIYR4GUm2i7pZydBcF_vWJueZHFPMWwEizaJvJ9O0yu-JrEJWVyMl1xTj1kqUhFdC941kB39xCuODGhMFW6yW9htJh7yxqFB74pMXTaNrWQwn/s320/P1040225.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662263099581836562" border="0" /></a>This was my first year participating in <a href="http://www.hcyc2011.mybigcommerce.com/index.php">The Best Little Yarn Crawl in Texas</a>. I only made it to 4 of the 9 stops, but it was so much fun! I came home with a head full of project ideas and all kinds of knitting goodies.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyGE5gv-aegakLTlMNsTXRsyRAxSOiN70IJCc09czP29luUv_gZ4q5-pGPc561ijdmb5KFs73KzAQdeVyUoHgA3KEINkudgkzsrQZx07NWoYPKXuymTTo0HfkiYLw3jFLFD4woxV2JWBM/s1600/P1040206.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyGE5gv-aegakLTlMNsTXRsyRAxSOiN70IJCc09czP29luUv_gZ4q5-pGPc561ijdmb5KFs73KzAQdeVyUoHgA3KEINkudgkzsrQZx07NWoYPKXuymTTo0HfkiYLw3jFLFD4woxV2JWBM/s320/P1040206.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662263096882945954" border="0" /></a>I beefed up my stash with some <a href="http://soysilk.com/yarn-pages/littlestar.html">sparkly sock yarn</a>, beautifully heathered <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-AlpacaLace.asp">alpaca lace weight</a>, and <a href="http://www.malabrigoyarn.com/sub_yarn.php?id_sub_yarn=25">malabrigo lace weight</a> in the best dark green color. Yarn with a bit of glitter in it seems to be the trend this fall, a trend that I was happy to indulge in!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBD1_qFk3czN7Bzuwvwj8KNWg4RtO6RBPPvs3nZP3N__Zh23mecXGhHBfkjR4H2ZjHIpr0y-LMDOPm8pZ4ieeqnmNckfOF-UmDU405JS2wq1hSOHbFymZOXQET5SW0WRreyWogyIguadVA/s1600/P1040190.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBD1_qFk3czN7Bzuwvwj8KNWg4RtO6RBPPvs3nZP3N__Zh23mecXGhHBfkjR4H2ZjHIpr0y-LMDOPm8pZ4ieeqnmNckfOF-UmDU405JS2wq1hSOHbFymZOXQET5SW0WRreyWogyIguadVA/s320/P1040190.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662263082894978466" border="0" /></a>We visited all the shops in the Austin area: <a href="https://www.theknittingnestaustin.com/">The Knitting Nest</a>, <a href="http://www.hillcountryweavers.com/main/">Hill Country Weavers</a>, and <a href="http://www.gaugeknit.com/">Gauge</a>. Then, my yarn crawl buddy and I got adventurous and took our toddlers out to <a href="http://www.theoldoaksranch.com/">Old Oaks Ranch</a> Monday morning. Oh man, do I love me some alpacas! I have to say, as much fun as we had at the ranch, I was disappointed that I didn't get to touch an alpaca even though their ad in the passport says "Come touch an alpaca!". We also didn't get a free gift there, but taking pictures of the kiddos running around the sculpture garden was a great souvenir.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_PXpLuqswhpyj7DwLLzoGmmqI1I6rCq-APNGaet1tvaKoTiNlez6RyqkCDn7cS77s7UmaO-OGaozr_2fZAsjebMtZMWW6f37sZEUOu4bQ5u74MZv-CfVXdcucPvDwGn1lRs-X1j8giAt/s1600/P1040182.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_PXpLuqswhpyj7DwLLzoGmmqI1I6rCq-APNGaet1tvaKoTiNlez6RyqkCDn7cS77s7UmaO-OGaozr_2fZAsjebMtZMWW6f37sZEUOu4bQ5u74MZv-CfVXdcucPvDwGn1lRs-X1j8giAt/s320/P1040182.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662263078302428930" border="0" /></a>Everyone we encountered along the crawl was super friendly and helpful. I think it's great that they changed things up a bit this year so there's a giveaway that you can enter for each store.<br />Hopefully next year I can make it to all the stores so I can be eligible for the grand prize! Now if you'll excuse me, I have some serious knitting to attend to. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-16024381035512955502011-10-11T09:35:00.005-05:002011-10-11T09:45:29.642-05:00It Takes a Village Baby Blanket<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1rT_yESM2gK2IPR_l0Zj-AXtqr9-0zfLDxxq6KRY7R5edVJbKKcWe78ghRSepfCCSGh-HKWdLSGDL_-pBntMjuaEE_Htujkb89n-sV3D94DYtPvPBp8sDRIfm4FwMf8sESYr7LNaFrYB/s1600/Herbie%2527s+banket.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1rT_yESM2gK2IPR_l0Zj-AXtqr9-0zfLDxxq6KRY7R5edVJbKKcWe78ghRSepfCCSGh-HKWdLSGDL_-pBntMjuaEE_Htujkb89n-sV3D94DYtPvPBp8sDRIfm4FwMf8sESYr7LNaFrYB/s320/Herbie%2527s+banket.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5662243372710364370" border="0" /></a>A member of Knitters Anonymous, the awesome knittin' and drinkin' group I'm in, recently had a little boy. While she was busy growing a human life, the rest of us made her this blanket.<br />We used two colors of Naturally Caron Spa and each member contributed a panel.<br />The only instructions given were to CO 36 stitches and knit in your chosen stitch pattern until your piece measured 32". I gathered up all the panels, stitched them together, and did a single crochet border around the edge to tie it all together. I think it looks very sweet and it is silky soft, perfect for delicate baby skin. Sorry for the blurry, picture, it's the only one I have. I think my camera is starting to lose it. : /<br />Anyway, I think this is a great project for a gift from a knitting group, but were I ever to do it again I would go with a cotton yarn.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4631119498819193117.post-83365085056180928732011-09-28T13:44:00.001-05:002011-09-28T13:45:53.273-05:00Crochet School? Awesome!<center><a _mce_href="http://www.craftyminx.com/crochet-school/" href="http://www.craftyminx.com/crochet-school/"><img _mce_src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y11/orangegurll/button2-1.jpg" src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y11/orangegurll/button2-1.jpg" border="0" /></a></center><div style="text-align: center;">*Thanks, I think I will.*</div><br />I am totally signing up for this. I know how to do a couple of things, like chain and double crochet, but I can't read a pattern well and I am light years away from re-creating any of the awesome crocheted goodness on my <a href="http://pinterest.com/lexer/crochet/">pin board</a>. Holy smokes, am I ever addicted to <a href="http://pinterest.com/lexer/">Pinterest</a> right now. So many great ideas on there! Like Crochet School! It starts October 1st.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />I do not need another hobby. But another SKILL, well, that's a different story.... right?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0